Proposed projects will strengthen the local area by incrementally addressing local needs and priorities and will result in long term benefits such as job creation, economic diversification and enhanced business competitiveness. Projects must demonstrate significant direct or indirect impact on the enhancement of local business and/or the community as a whole and should evidence support from partners in the private and/or public sectors. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations, including municipalities, CFDCs, or Aboriginal organizations. Special consideration will be given to those applications that focus on innovative technologies and green initiatives.