Key to the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) are programs and initiatives that help to maintain and enhance the competitiveness of Ontario's forest industry, drive transformation and investment in the forestry sector and promote the consumption of Ontario wood and wood products.
Forest Sector Investments

Investors who choose Ontario are also choosing sustainable forest management. They can count on a competent workforce, a strategic geographical location, and a province that works to enhance the competitiveness of its forest sector. Since 2005, Ontario has provided over $940 million to the forestry sector through various initiatives. Such as up to $75 million annually to support building and maintaining forest access roads.
We can help companies leverage financial support through our many contacts and strong relationships with other companies, stakeholders, agencies, various levels of government and First Nations. We can also facilitate private and public sector investment in biomass energy projects, new technology and processes, diversification and the production of value-added products.
The forest sector contributes to the wealth of Ontario and the well-being of its communities. There are many opportunities for growth, innovation and prosperity for this sector.
Learn how the forest sector is growing and diversifying through various programs »
Marketing and Promotion
Ontario's forests have become the source for cutting-edge products and services like engineered wood for buildings, smart paper, bioplastics and new green energy solutions, all of which are experiencing increased global demand. Ontario is partnering with industry, associations and governments to foster the use of Ontario wood in Ontario and abroad. Why? It's local. It's planet friendly. It's about quality and choice.
And we can help Ontario grow its value-added sector. Developing skills and training, expanding capacity, developing market and providing market and research analysis are some of the services we offer.
When you choose Ontario wood products for your building or renovation projects or for other purchases, you are helping to support our forest industry and many communities.
Find out how MNR and its partners are developing measures to stimulate demand for Ontario-based forest products. »
Transformation Initiatives
The forest sector and the many people who rely on it understand the need for transformation. And by 2025, Ontario will be home of a transformed, globally competitive and market driven forest industry that creates diverse wood and bioproducts, and is a cornerstone of the province's green economy.
You want to turn existing research and ideas into a commercial reality? The Centre for Research and Innovation in the Bio-economy is interested in developing partnerships with entrepreneurs, research organizations and industry for that purpose.
Forest product industries have been constantly renewing themselves in response to cyclical challenges and changing needs of the market.
Ontario is helping the industry remain competitive in green economy. More »
Ontario Wood Exports

The Ontario government helps forestry and value-added wood product companies identify and maximize their export opportunities. Working with our partners we want to help Ontario businesses to identify and maximize their export opportunities by offering a range of export-related services including: education, export counseling, market research and buyer introductions.
Ontario’s wood products industry is comprised of close to 2,400 companies with the secondary wood processing sector representing close to 85% of the total group of companies. Export activity can be found in every wood products sub sector.
Are you new to exporting, or already exporting products from Ontario?
Learn more about the Ontario's export fund and why you should consider exporting your products »