Rural Kingston Economic Development

The main goals of the Rural Kingston Economic Strategy are to help rural businesses and food producers, as well as collaborate with communities and partners to achieve certain objectives. The plan focuses on: 

1. 1. Promoting the growth of rural businesses and providing support at all levels. 
   2. Assisting new and existing farms and food-related industries with agricultural sector development. 
   3. Working with Kingston Tourism and nearby towns to revive rural tourism. 
   4. Grow smaller communities and business parks in rural areas through a strategic approach. 

Learn more about the Integrated Economic Development Strategy and the Rural Kingston Economic Strategy Strategy. 

Rural Initiatives 

These programs and projects are designed to support and improve rural communities in Kingston. 

Rural Community Program Fund

The Rural Community Program Fund is an opportunity for rural community groups, special event organizers, volunteer organizations and business partnerships to secure funding that supports their project. It provides five successful applicants with up to $5,000 to support creative and impactful projects that build community spirit and attract visitors to rural neighbourhoods.

Applications are closed. Learn more about the selection process on Get Involved Kingston. 

Rural Working Group 

The Rural Economic and Community Development Working Group represents the interests of the City of Kingston's rural residents and businesses, including farms, as they relate to rural community, business development and agricultural matters.

Formerly known as the Rural Advisory Committee, the working group allows rural community members to be involved and engaged in the City of Kingston’s rural initiatives. Meetings take place every few months and you can find them on the Working Groups page.

Kingston Public Market 

Kingston Public Market is in Springer Market Square in downtown Kingston. This oldest and longest-running Market in Ontario offers produce, food products and crafts by local artisans. 

Food Production Training Days 

The City of Kingston regularly hosts food production training days, aimed at helping prospective food producers learn how to rent commercial kitchens and get their products to market.

Local food survey

We have collected feedback from residents to inform our local food strategy. Learn more about the Local Food project.

Samsung Solar LP Community Benefit Fund  

We engaged with the rural community by soliciting their ideas for how to allocate the Samsung Benefit Fund and which project they would like to see funded in rural Kingston. The community provided 215 total contributions, which we have shared with the Rural Advisory Committee. Learn more about the Samsung Solar LP Community Benefit Fund.

Dedicated rural support 

The Rural Economic and Community Development office provides dedicated support to rural business owners, farmers, food producers and community projects.