The Government of Canada has announced updated support measures for businesses impacted by U.S. tariffs, including the reopening of FedDev Ontario’s Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) and the launch of a new financing program through the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC).
FedDev Ontario – Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) Re-Opened
FedDev Ontario’s RTRI program is once again accepting applications after previously being paused on May 1, 2026.
The initiative provides funding to help tariff-impacted businesses respond to ongoing U.S. trade measures through:
- Market diversification and export development strategies
- Productivity and technology investments
- Supply chain adjustments
- Competitiveness and operational improvements
The program is designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises across sectors affected by tariffs throughout Southern Ontario.
For program details and application information, visit the Government of Canada’s Regional Tariff Response Initiative page.
New: BDC Tariff Response Financing Program
The federal government has also announced a new $1 billion tariff response financing program delivered through the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC).
This program is targeted to manufacturers and exporters whose products contain steel, aluminum, or copper and who are experiencing cash flow pressures due to U.S. tariffs.
Key Program Features
- Low-interest loans generally ranging from $2 million to $50 million
- Flexible repayment terms, typically up to three years
- Support for otherwise viable companies adapting to changing trade conditions
For additional program details and eligibility information, visit BDC’s metals sector support page at bdc.ca/metals.