Francophone businesses, entrepreneurs get $500K boost to develop new online platform

Franco-Ontarian entrepreneurs and businesses are getting a $500,000 boost to create a new online platform and a campaign focused on promoting products and services.

A total of $250,000 will support the creation of the Francophone Business Network, designed to help businesses share their expertise and best practices and form new strategic partnerships. 

The other $250,000 will fund a campaign focused on promoting Franco-Ontarians products and services.

"As the province continues down the path of renewal, growth and economic recovery, these two initiatives will provide timely support to Ontario's Francophone entrepreneurs and small- and medium-size businesses while we continue to strengthen the Francophone business community," said Caroline Mulroney, minister of Francophone Affairs. "This investment will ensure that Franco-Ontarians can continue to access the goods and services they need and overcome the challenges businesses in the community are facing because of COVID-19."

The Francophone Business Network will connect entrepreneurs and businesses with the goal to create or expand their product lines, services and markets, and to increase their visibility. To set up the network, the government is seeking proposals targeting Francophone organizations known for their expertise and reaching out to the Francophone business sector in Ontario.

Slated for winter 2021, the promotional campaign will be designed to showcase Franco-Ontarian businesses and encourage Ontarians to buy local products and services.

Ontario is also investing $1 million for Francophone economic and community development through the Francophone Community Grants Program in 2020-21.

Recipients for this year's edition will be announced in October 2020.