The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC), an agency of the government of Ontario, supports economic growth in Northern Ontario by providing funding to businesses, communities, and organizations. Its goal is to create jobs, improve infrastructure, and promote innovation, helping the region grow and diversify its economy.
For NOHFC, Northern Ontario is defined as all areas north of, and including, the districts of Parry Sound and Nipissing. Not sure if you qualify? Use our regional eligibility checker, or contact a member of our team.
The application and review process for NOHFC funding takes about 3-6 months, depending on the applicant’s readiness, the program being applied to, and the complexity of the project. Applicants start with a preliminary application to check eligibility, and typically hear back within 10 business days. If eligible, they are assigned a contact to help with a detailed proposal. Once submitted, the proposal undergoes a thorough review, after which the NOHFC board makes a decision.
NOHFC defines professional services as a service requiring specialized knowledge and skill requiring a license, certification, or registration. Professional services may include, but are not limited to: accounting, architecture, engineering, lawyering, veterinarian services, human resources, financial and investment professional services, and health services performed by physicians, dentists, and optometrists.
NOHFC is now accepting online applications. For more information, or to start your application, visit the NOHFC online application system and log in or create a new account to get started.
No, cannabis manufacturing and retail companies don’t qualify for NOHFC programs. However, the Government of Canada offers resources on their website for cannabis cultivation, processing, and medical sales licenses. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario also provides support.
Yes. Members of our team are available to support applicants through the entire application process. If you need help with your application contact a member of our team.
Effective February 3, 2026, fire halls and related fire service activities are not eligible for NOHFC funding under the Community Enhancement Program. Fire halls are classified as core community infrastructure, which falls outside the mandate of NOHFC’s economic development–focused programming. NOHFC’s Community Enhancement Program is intended to support projects that contribute to community‑level economic development, capacity, and growth—not essential municipal services.
Communities with fire hall or fire service–related projects are encouraged to contact their Northern Development Advisor, who can help direct them to alternative provincial or federal infrastructure programs designed to support public safety and municipal infrastructure needs.