Cheryl Gallant, Member of Parliament for Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke, has written to the Minister of Industry urging the federal government to ensure that a dedicated portion of funding under the Regional Tariff Response Initiative is directed to small businesses with annual revenues of less than $1 million through Canada’s network of Community Futures Development Agencies.
In her letter, Gallant highlighted the challenges facing small businesses as they contend with the impacts of tariffs, trade disruptions, rising costs, and economic uncertainty. She emphasized that many small enterprises lack the resources and administrative capacity to access larger government programs despite being among the most vulnerable to changing economic conditions.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our local economies, creating jobs, supporting families, and sustaining communities across rural Canada,” said Gallant. “When economic disruptions occur, these businesses often feel the effects most acutely, yet they can be the hardest to reach through traditional funding programs.”
Gallant noted that Community Futures Development Agencies have a long-standing record of supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses in rural communities through financing, business advice, and economic development initiatives. Their local presence and strong understanding of regional economies position them to deliver targeted assistance quickly and effectively.
“Community Futures organizations are trusted partners with deep roots in the communities they serve,” Gallant said. “By directing a portion of Regional Tariff Response Initiative funding through these agencies, the government can ensure support reaches small businesses that may otherwise fall through the cracks.”
The letter calls on the federal government to establish a dedicated stream within the initiative for businesses generating less than $1 million in annual revenue. Gallant argues this approach would help protect jobs, strengthen local economies, and ensure federal support reaches entrepreneurs in rural and small-town communities.
“Canada’s smallest businesses should not be left behind when responding to tariff-related challenges,” Gallant added. “Targeted support delivered through Community Futures would help these enterprises remain competitive, resilient, and able to continue contributing to the economic vitality of their communities.”
A copy of the letter has been provided to the Minister of Industry for consideration.
Gallant,C.(2026,Sept.15) MP Cheryl Gallant Calls for Support for Small Businesses Through Community Futures Agencies [media release]