Economic Development update - March 2021

Spring is here and we have some new information to share with the local Business Community. If you have questions about any of the information below please reach out to the Economic Development Officer at heather.hyde@saugeenshores.ca

Accepting Patio Applications for 2021

The Town is now accepting applications for the 2021 patio season. The season will run from April 1, 2021 to October 30, 2021.

As in 2020, the Patio fee has been waived for 2021.

Those interested in applying can contact the Economic Development Officer at heather.hyde@saugeenshores.ca with questions and to start the application process. Applications can be submitted at anytime during the season.

Please note that only businesses looking to use Town property for their patio need apply.

Check out the 2021 Patio Policy.

Saugeen Shores INVEST Materials 2021

It is well known that Saugeen Shores is a wonderful place to live, work and play.

We’ve updated our INVEST communication materials to tell our story outside the region to those who are interested in starting a business locally or relocating to Saugeen Shores permanently. Check out what our amazing community has to offer in our:

Business to Bruce Webinar:

Shift happens, the fastest road to recovery with Roger Brooks

In this live workshop, you’ll learn the 20 things you can do today, on a minuscule budget, to increase your sales tomorrow. We’ll discuss the monumental shifts that are shaping where, when, and how we shop and dine, and how to tap into each one of these. Additionally, we’ll cover topics including:

Successful marketing techniques you can implement with budgets that are practically non-existent
How to best leverage your social media channels to increase sales
How to let your customers know that you’re a “safe place” to visit
Things to do INSIDE and just OUTSIDE your shops and eateries to pull customers in the door

You’ll have plenty of time to ask questions, conquer your biggest challenges, see real-life photographic examples, come up with ultra-creative ideas and ways to get attention (and increased sales), and you’ll leave pumped up and ready to put the bad side of 2020 behind you and to make up for those losses in record time.

Date: Wednesday, March 31, 2021

Time: 9:00 - 11:30 am

Visit the event page, for more information on this event and to register.

Google My Business

What is Google My Business (GMB)?

It’s a free tool that allows you to promote your business profile and website on Google Search and Maps. With your GMB account, you can see and connect with your customers, post updates to your business profile, and see how customers are interacting with your business on Google.

Who is GMB for?

Local businesses with a physical location
Service-area or roaming businesses (e.g. gardener, food truck)
Seasonal businesses open for a limited time, if signage is displayed year-round (e.g. pumpkin patch)

Want to get started? Check out 5 steps to optimize your Google My Business Listing.