Downtown Ontario Business Assistance Loan

To support the continued revitalization of Ontario’s Historic Downtown, the City of Ontario offers forgivable loans of up to $150,000 to help independently owned or regional food and beverage businesses open new locations.

The program is designed to reduce start-up costs and encourage long-term investment in the downtown area. Loan funds may be used for eligible expenses such as equipment, furniture, permits, and utility connection fees.

Eligible Expenses

Program Details

• Maximum Loan Amount: Up to $150,000
• Loan Forgiveness: 20% forgiven annually over five years
• Final Forgiveness: Full loan forgiven after five years of continuous operation at the approved location
• Repayment: Businesses that close or relocate before five years must repay the remaining balance

Eligible Expenses

The loan may be used to cover a variety of start-up costs, including:

• Restaurant and kitchen equipment
• Furniture and fixtures
• City building permits and fees
• Sewer connection fees (IEUA)

Funds cannot be used for rent, utilities, payroll, or other ongoing operating costs.

Eligible Locations

This program is limited to Euclid Avenue-facing properties in Downtown Ontario, between G Street and Emporia Street, within the following blocks:

• 100–200 blocks of South Euclid Avenue
• 100–600 blocks of North Euclid Avenue

These boundaries support the City's targeted revitalization efforts along the core corridor of Downtown.
The City may adjust boundaries at its discretion based on economic development priorities.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, businesses must meet the following requirements:

• Food and beverage business (e.g., restaurant, café, bar/lounge)
• Must have between 1 and 7 total locations (nationwide)
• Active 5-year lease or property ownership
• Valid City of Ontario business license
• Must maintain a satisfactory health grade
• Must not be in default with any public agency or subject to legal dispute for the proposed site