Welcome to the Innisfil Economic Development newsletter! 

This month, we're excited to share the latest updates on economic growth and upcoming events in our community. From innovative startups to thriving local businesses, there’s always something to celebrate in Innisfil. The Town of Innisfil’s Economic Development team is here to support you—reach out anytime at business@innisfil.ca for general inquiries or business assistance.  

Small Business Week 2024: Building Success Through Time Management and Business Systems 

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Join Nottawasaga Futures on Thursday, October 15, 2024 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., for a full-day workshop designed to help entrepreneurs grow their businesses through effective time management and business systems. The event will be hosted by Paul Oehm, a business consultant specializing in organization, processes, and profit optimization. The day’s workshops include: 

  • Time Management for Entrepreneurs: Master strategies like time auditing, time blocking, and productivity hacks. 
  • Business Systems: Discover efficient systems to streamline your operations and drive growth. 

Entry Fee: Nottawasaga Futures is encouraging donations to local food banks. Bring three non-perishable items or donate $10+ for a chance to win exciting prizes. 

This event is in partnership with Adjala-Tosorontio, Town of Innisfil Economic Development, BWG Economic Development, County of Simcoe, New Tecumseth, Nottawasaga Futures, and BDC. 

Manufacturer’s Forum – Save the Date 

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Mark your calendar for the Manufacturer’s Forum on November 5, 2024 from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Nottawasaga Inn. This forum is a unique opportunity for local manufacturers to network and learn how to position themselves as employers of choice. Stay tuned for more details! 

Tech Compass Digital Toolkit 

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The Tech Compass Digital Toolkit is a tourism initiative led by Community Futures South Georgian Bay in partnership with RTO7. This program offers free tech advice to tourism businesses across Simcoe, Grey, and Bruce Counties. Participants receive a tech assessment valued at $2,500 and a comprehensive report to guide their digital transformation. 

Unlock your business’s potential today! For more information, visit Tech Compass

Simcoe Muskoka Skillforce: Business Interview Opportunity 

Simcoe Muskoka Skillforce is conducting research for their Local Labour Market Planning report and is seeking local businesses to participate in interviews or focus groups. This is a great opportunity to share your insights on the local workforce, skill and education needs, and how your business connects with underrepresented groups. Your input will also help highlight how familiar businesses are with government-supported services and programs. 

If you’re interested in contributing to this important report and helping guide future workforce planning, sign up for an interview or focus group today! 

Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) Program 

The GICB Program aims to enhance community buildings in underserved and high-needs areas across Canada, providing funding for retrofits, repairs, and new constructions. This program has a focus on energy efficiency, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and increasing climate resilience. With up to $2 billion in federal funding, the program also seeks to stimulate the economy and create job opportunities. The application deadline is October 16. Please visit the following link for more information: Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada - Applicant Guide

Ontario Agri-food Research Initiative (OAFRI) 

The Ontario Agri-Food Research Initiative (OAFRI) provides funding for agri-food research and innovation projects in Ontario, which is a key pillar of the Grow Ontario Strategy. OAFRI includes various funding streams to support research and innovation projects aimed at providing solutions for Ontario’s agri-food sector. The available streams include applied research, pilot and demonstration, commercialisation, and knowledge translation and transfer. The application intakes will open in October 2024.  For more information, please visit Ontario Agri-food Research Initiative.

Council Visit to Kon Tiki Marina and Gilford Local Eatery 

Council and staff were thrilled to visit Kon Tiki Marina and Gilford Local Eatery. Hosts Derek, Anthony, and Sadie gave fantastic tours, showcasing how their businesses contribute to the local community. At Kon Tiki, we learned about their boating services and sustainable growth vision, while at Gilford Local Eatery, we experienced how they blend local ingredients with culinary innovation. It’s exciting to see how both businesses bring people together in Innisfil. 

Council Tour photo

Dollar Tree Grand Opening  

Congratulations to Steve, District Manager and the Dollar Tree team on their recent grand opening in Alcona! It was a pleasure to meet the team and celebrate this milestone. Supporting business retention and expansion remains a key priority in Innisfil’s Economic Development Strategic Plan

Grand Opening of Dollar Tree