Ontario Priorities Housing Initiative (OPHI)

The Ontario Priorities Housing Initiative (OPHI) is a strategic program aimed at increasing the supply of affordable community rental housing in Durham Region. Administered by the Region of Durham in partnership with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH), OPHI provides financial support to non-profit, municipal, and co-operative housing organizations, as well as private sector companies in partnership with these entities.

Key Objectives:

• Develop a diverse range of affordable housing options.
• Facilitate mixed-income communities that are well-designed and integrated within the broader community.
• Support urban revitalization and intensification.
• Improve live/work relationships.
• Reduce community housing wait lists.
• Promote energy efficiency and accessibility in housing developments.
• Provide housing with supports for vulnerable populations.

Funding Details: 

OPHI funding is provided as a forgivable loan, covering up to 75% of the capital costs for eligible affordable units. Projects must be financially viable, with rents at or below 80% of the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) average market rent for a minimum of 20 years. Units must be modest in size, and construction must begin within 120 days of signing the Service Manager Municipal Housing Contribution Agreement.

Eligibility: 

Eligible projects include new construction, acquisition and rehabilitation of existing buildings, and conversion of non-residential buildings to rental units. Applications must demonstrate strong development, property management, and financial capabilities.

OPHI Guidelines and Supplementary Forms:

The OPHI Program Guidelines and supplementary forms have been provided via email. If you did not receive the email or need additional copies, please send a request to CHAdmin@durham.ca to obtain them.

Application Process:

Applications and supplementary forms must be submitted by 4:00pm on Friday, September 26, 2025. Successful applicants will sign a Service Manager Municipal Housing Contribution Agreement with the Region by December 15, 2025, and must begin construction by April 15, 2026.