BRANTFORD, ON — The Ontario government is making a $7.5 million investment to help small and medium-sized businesses modernize their operations and remain competitive in today’s digital economy. The funding, announced this week by the Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, will support expert-led consulting, targeted grants, and digital technology adoption through the province’s Digitalization Competence Centre (DCC).
The investment includes two key streams:
-
$5 million for the Digital Modernization and Adoption Plan (DMAP), offering up to $15,000 per business to fund customized digital roadmaps. Businesses completing a DMAP plan may also qualify for up to $100,000 in additional grants through the Technology Demonstration Program to implement new digital tools and systems.
-
$2.5 million for a new Retail Modernization Project Grant, delivering up to $5,000 in matched funding for retail businesses seeking upgrades in areas like e-commerce, inventory software, digital marketing, CRM tools, and cybersecurity.
“Small businesses are the backbone of Ontario’s economy, and our government is helping more businesses embrace new technologies that will improve their operations,” said Nina Tangri, Associate Minister of Small Business. “Under the leadership of Premier Ford, we will continue to support small businesses in priority sectors like retail.”
The DCC, delivered by the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI), has already supported nearly 300 digital adoption projects since launching in 2022. Participating companies have reported a collective increase of $380 million in revenue. The initiative now includes more than 100 registered consultants and 140 Ontario-based digital technology vendors.
Local businesses like Brantford Finders Keepers have already benefited from previous DCC support, using the funding to implement digital tools that improve efficiency and customer engagement.
“Our government is proud to help small and medium-sized businesses, like Brantford Finders Keepers, digitize their operations and develop strategies for growth,” said Will Bouma, MPP for Brantford–Brant. “Modernizing businesses will spur competitiveness, strengthen our economy, and protect Ontario.”
This digital investment is part of Ontario’s broader strategy to build the most competitive and resilient economy in the G7—supporting job creators while safeguarding long-term growth.
Follow GTA Weekly on social media for more local news and updates. #GTAToday
Leave a Reply