Global trade conditions are shifting rapidly, and businesses across Canada, including right here in Norfolk County, are feeling the impact. Rising tariffs, supply chain uncertainty, changes in export markets, and currency fluctuations are creating new pressures for companies of all sizes.
Norfolk County Economic Development recognizes that these challenges can affect everything from input costs and cash flow to long-term investment decisions. To support local businesses, three major programs are currently available to help companies adapt, pivot, and grow despite trade disruptions.
These programs are offered by the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC), Farm Credit Canada (FCC), and FedDev Ontario, and they provide both financial flexibility and strategic support to companies navigating tariff-related pressures. Whether you’re a manufacturer exporting to the United States, a food processor competing in global markets, or a farm business managing shifting commodity flows, these programs can provide the tools you need to stay competitive.
1. BDC Pivot to Grow Loan
TTariffs and trade volatility can create sudden cost increases or supply-chain challenges. BDC’s Pivot to Grow Loan was created specifically to help export-oriented companies manage those pressures and invest with confidence.
What the program offers
- Up to $5 million in financing
- Support for adjusting supply chains, purchasing new equipment, or expanding into diversified markets
- Flexible repayment options, including interest-only periods
Who’s eligible
This program is geared toward companies with:
- $2 million or more in annual revenue
- A strong track record of viability
- At least 15% of sales from exports, or a clear demonstration of how U.S. tariff changes or trade uncertainty have affected the business
Why this matters for Norfolk County
Norfolk County is home to a wide range of exporting businesses — from advanced manufacturers to food producers. These companies help drive our local economy, support high-quality jobs, and maintain vital supply chains. But even small trade disruptions can ripple through operations.
- Respond quickly to rising input costs
- Realign or strengthen supply chains
- Invest in automation or productivity tools
- Explore new markets outside the U.S.
- Build long-term resilience against global trade volatility
👉 Learn more: https://www.bdc.ca/en/financing/pivot-grow-loan
If you have any questions you can Norfolk County’s BDC representative here: [email protected]
2. FCC Trade Disruption Customer Support Program
Agriculture is at the heart of Norfolk County’s economy, and changes in global trade can significantly affect producers and processors across the region. FCC’s Trade Disruption Customer Support Program gives farmers and agri-food businesses additional financial flexibility during periods of uncertainty.
What the program offers
- Up to $1 billion in dedicated support
- Option to defer principal payments for up to 12 months on existing loans
- Access to new or expanded credit lines to manage cash flow or invest in strategic improvements
Who’s eligible
FCC is offering this support to:
- Existing FCC clients
- New clients who meet lending criteria
- Farms, processors, agri-food suppliers, and related service businesses facing trade or tariff disruptions
Why this matters for Norfolk County
Norfolk County’s farms and food processors are deeply connected to international markets. Even when products are sold domestically, global markets influence commodity prices, processing capacity, and export demand.
This program helps our local agricultural businesses:
- Manage tighter margins caused by tariff-related price swings
- Sustain operations during market slowdowns
- Access capital for equipment, modernization, or diversification
- Navigate uncertainty while planning for future growth
For many farms and processors, having the option to temporarily defer payments can make the difference between delaying progress and moving forward with confidence.
👉 Learn more:
https://www.fcc-fac.ca/en/about-fcc/media-centre/news-releases/2025/trade-disruption-customer-support-program
If you have any questions about this loan, please contact Eva Larouche [email protected]
3. FedDev Ontario Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI)
FedDev Ontario’s Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) is one of the most significant new programs available for Ontario manufacturers and exporters. Designed to help businesses respond directly to tariff impacts, this initiative supports transformative projects that strengthen long-term competitiveness.
What the program offers
- Repayable funding from $125,000 up to $10 million
- Non-repayable contributions up to $1 million for eligible small and medium-sized businesses
- Support for projects that:
- Boost productivity
- Strengthen supply chains
- Reduce reliance on single export markets
- Modernize production
- Reshore manufacturing activities
- Support workforce expansion or training
Who’s eligible
To qualify, businesses must:
- Operate in southern Ontario
- Have 5 to 499 full-time employees
- Be incorporated and for-profit
- Demonstrate how tariffs or trade disruptions have affected them
- Propose a project with clear regional economic benefits
Why this matters for Norfolk County
RTRI is especially valuable for Norfolk County companies that are ready to make a transformational investment but need support to proceed. Local manufacturers and exporters can leverage this program to:
- Upgrade technology or automation
- Improve energy efficiency or productivity
- Build or expand facilities
- Develop new products for global markets
- Increase resilience against future trade disruptions
Because non-repayable funding is available, this program offers an opportunity with long-term benefits for both businesses and the wider community.
Supporting Local Growth Through Global Uncertainty
Tariffs and trade shifts can be challenging — but they also present opportunities for forward-looking businesses to rethink operations, tap into new markets, and build competitive advantage.
At Norfolk County Economic Development, our goal is to ensure that local businesses have the tools, connections, and resources they need to navigate this moment successfully.
If your Norfolk County business is navigating tariff challenges or planning major investments, we encourage you to reach out. These programs are strong opportunities to build resilience, improve competitiveness, and support long-term growth.