$1B in Ontario Tariff Financing: What Businesses Need to Know

Toronto, ON – August 25, 2026

Ontario has immediately expanded the Protect Ontario Financing Program (POFP) to businesses hit by the new 50% U.S. Section 338 tariffs, effective August 22, 2026.

If tariffs are putting pressure on your cash flow, sales, production or workforce, your business may qualify for provincial support.

What’s Available

Protect Ontario Financing Program — Up to $1 Billion
Financing to help tariff-affected businesses cover critical operating costs, including payroll, leases and utilities. Eligibility now includes businesses impacted by the new Section 338 tariffs, as well as Section 232 tariffs affecting steel, aluminum, copper and automobiles.

Ontario is also providing:

• $150M Ontario Together Trade Fund — supports SMEs investing, expanding and diversifying into new Canadian and international markets.
• $40M Trade-Impacted Communities Program — supports industries and communities particularly exposed to tariffs.
• Ontario Made Manufacturing Investment Tax Credit — tax relief for qualifying manufacturing and processing investments.

The Bottom Line

Businesses should act before tariff pressures become a cash-flow crisis. While POFP provides financing rather than grants, other government programs may help fund equipment, automation, expansion, market diversification and productivity improvements.

How GTA Strategies Can Help

GTA Strategies can assess your tariff exposure, identify the programs you may qualify for, and assist with financing and funding applications. We can also help businesses pursue government support, diversify markets and communicate directly with federal and provincial decision-makers.

Before cutting production, delaying investment or reducing your workforce, find out what government support may be available.

Contact GTA Strategies to discuss your eligibility and options. (647) 723 0287 fax