Resources and support to help Sarnia businesses respond to tariff challenges

Tariffs continue to create new challenges for Sarnia businesses, but support is available.

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A local Tariff & Trade Resources page consolidates programs, data, and practical tools to help local businesses adapt and stay competitive amid rising input costs, shifting cross‑border dynamics, and uncertainty around U.S. tariffs.

The online resource is updated regularly and can help businesses evaluate options

• Links to federal and provincial program and incentives relevant to tariff-affected businesses
• Tariff and trade data and statistics to inform planning and risk assessment
• Resources to support locally made products, including guidance on compliance, exporting, and market diversification

Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI): funding to adapt and grow

A key program available to assist businesses operating in southern Ontario is the Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI). Administered on behalf of FedDev Ontario, RTRI provides funding to help eligible businesses and organizations respond to trade disruptions, strengthen operations, and build resilience.

Funding can support projects that allow your business to:

• Boost productivity (e.g., process improvements, automation, technology adoption)
• Strengthen supply chain resilience (e.g., reshoring, supplier diversification, logistics optimization)
• Diversify markets (e.g., export development, domestic market expansion)
• Reduce the impacts of tariffs and lower operating costs through strategic investments

Who can apply?

Eligible for-profit businesses may access repayable loans or non-repayable grants.

Typical eligibility criteria for for‑profit applicants in southern Ontario include:

• Operating in southern Ontario
• Having 5 to 500 full-time employees (FTEs)
• Being in operation for at least three years
• Demonstrating a direct impact on tariffs, such as increased material costs, lost sales, or reduced profitability

Recent federal announcements also signal expanded support under RTRI, including higher caps on non‑repayable contributions and additional liquidity options, underscoring the program’s role in helping SMEs manage tariff pressures.

How Invest Sarnia can help

If your business is navigating tariff‑related pressures or exploring new growth opportunities, Invest Sarnia can help you navigate available services and understand which programs you might be eligible to pursue.

Connect with our team and learn more about RTRI and other supports that might be available to you.