
Economic Development Update - July 2022
Check out the latest in economic development news.
To view a full list of resources from a variety of sources and organizations visit the Town’s Business Support webpage.
Still have questions? Reach out to the Economic Development Officer at heather.hyde@saugeenshores.ca.
Tourism HR Canada - New Guide to Help Employers Attract and Retain Workers
Tourism’s workforce issues did not begin with the pandemic, but COVID has heightened and amplified the problem. The labour shortage is here to stay, and adapting to new circumstances must involve multiple strategies.
To assist employers in moving forward, Tourism HR Canada has created a new, free resource: Now Hiring: A Guide to Help Employers Attract and Retain Workers in a Post-Pandemic Environment.
The tools in this guide are intended to help tourism businesses get started on the path to recovery, with both short-term and long-term strategies to attract, retain, and grow a skilled workforce. Now Hiring covers a range of essential HR practices, tips to implement them, and practical checklists and forms to help tackle key issues.
Ontario Government extends paid sick days until March 31, 2023
The Ontario government announced that it will be extending the COVID-19 Worker Income Protection Benefit until March 31, 2023.
Eligible workers will receive up to three days of paid infectious disease emergency leave if they need to get tested for COVID-19, vaccinated, get booster shots, self-isolate, or care for a family member who is ill from COVID-19. Employers are required to pay employees the wages they would have earned had they not taken the leave, up to $200 a day.
Smart Serve Recertification – What you need to know
On July 1, 2022, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) approved Smart Serve Recertification every five years. With an ever-changing landscape, this will ensure that employees and employers are kept current.
Due to the recent changes to the liquor framework in Ontario, all existing Smart Serve certificate holders will be impacted as of July 1, 2022. As such, the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO) is hosting a free webinar to outline some of the new regulations, highlight the new Liquor License and Control Act (LLCA), and how businesses will be impacted by these changes. The session will also include a question-and-answer component.
Join in the conversation on August 9, 2022, at 2:00 pm with Caitlyn Drexler, TIAO’s Policy & Research Officer, and Richard Anderson, Executive Director, Smart Serve.
Click here to learn more and register for the event
Tourism and Hospitality Emergency Recovery (THER)
As businesses and operators prepare for a strong summer season, workforce recovery remains a challenge. Access tools and strategies specific to your region, including readiness assessments, real-time data, and workshops for businesses are available. Learn more at LetsGetReady.ca.
In response to overwhelming demand, THER is sharing their most popular videos promoting tourism and hospitality careers for industry use. Download or link to these FREE videos or use them in your organization’s marketing efforts.
Five Cost-effective Ways to Market Your Business on a Shoestring Budget
Whether you are figuring out how to schedule employees, trying to effectively manage your inventory, or applying for a business loan, there is a lot to deal with. On top of everything, you need to attract customers. Marketing is essential to the success of your business. There are a lot of ways to attract customers that won’t break the bank. Here are 5 cost-effective ways to market your business on a shoestring budget.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s Virtual Learning Session for Ontario Employers
The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is hosting a series of free, 30-minute information sessions for employers in Ontario. You’ll learn more about Canada’s economic immigration programs and resources to help you attract, hire, and retain global talent.
Click to register online:
Francophone Immigration: Wednesday, August 3, 1pm – 2pm
International Experience Canada: Wednesday, August 17, 1pm – 2pm