Economic Development Update - May 2023

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

It’s Patio Season in Saugeen Shores

Patio season officially kicked off in Saugeen Shores on April 1st. However, we recognize that most businesses wait until the weather warms up before installing their patios.

This is a quick reminder that a patio application is required for any business setting up a patio on municipally owned property. This includes patios with railings/boundaries and those setting up tables and chairs out on the sidewalk areas.

You can find more information about patio requirements in the Town’s Patio Policy.

There is no cost to submit an application and Heather Hyde, Economic Development Officer, is available to support businesses through the application process.

Heather can be contacted at Heather.Hyde@SaugeenShores.ca or at 519-832-2008 x 106.

Pride Window Decals Now Available

The Town is committed to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. This means we want all people to be treated fairly and to be able to fully participate in our community, and in particular, groups who have historically been underrepresented or who have faced discrimination because of who they are.

This year, we have created Pride window decals for businesses in partnership with the Saugeen Shores Chamber of Commerce, the Southampton BIA, and the Port Elgin BIA. These decals show that you support Pride month and members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community.

Order your Pride window decal today to show your support.

Learn more

2SLGBTQI+ Diversity & Inclusion: Generating a Welcoming & Accessible Workspace

(Management Session)

May 30, 1:30pm to 3pm

Regional Tourism Organization 7 (RTO7) and Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC) have partnered on this 90-minute online session. This session focuses on how management can support 2SLGBTQI+ inclusion within your organization/business.

Learn more about the session, and register, by visiting RTO7.ca.

Innovation Park Saugeen Shores

Are you a business working in the Clean Energy Sector and want to learn more about the Town’s newest business park: Innovation Park, Saugeen Shores? Listen to the newest episode of the Shore Report which highlights the plans and vision for the development of Innovation Park.

Shore Report Episode: Innovation Park Saugeen Shores

For more information about Innovation Park opportunities, contact Heather Hyde, Economic Development Officer, at Heather.Hyde@SaugeenShores.ca or by phone at 519-832-2008 x106.

Digital Service Squad in Saugeen Shores

More funding has been awarded to the Digital Service Squad program in Saugeen Shores. Our Digital Service Squad team member will continue to provide free one-on-one support for local businesses and their digital needs until the end of July 2023.

Additionally, eligible small business owners can apply for the Digital Transformation Grant — up to $2,500. This grant is offered by Digital Main Street. Applications are open until September 30, 2023 or until funds are exhausted.

Interested in applying for the Digital Transformation Grant or one-on-one service support? Contact Will LeGrand today at dsswilliamlegrand@gmail.com.

Learn more

Apply for a Spruce the Bruce Grant

Attractive storefronts help create a more vibrant and welcoming atmosphere on our main streets.

Make your vision come to life with grant funding from Spruce the Bruce! Eligible downtown businesses can apply for grants to help cover the costs of revitalizing their storefronts including signage, awnings, and patio installations.

Did you receive a grant before but have plans for another exterior improvement? You may be eligible for funding again.

Book a meeting or visit sprucethebruce.com to find out more. 

Preparing To Meet the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Bill 88 Requirements

The Ontario Government has introduced the Ontario Workplace Naloxone Program. This program was created to help businesses respond to opioid poisoning in the workplace. 

The new naloxone requirements under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) come into effect on June 1, 2023.

Click here to access the PowerPoint document and a PDF that provides more details, including how to sign up for the free training and kit. 

For more information, email WNP@redcross.ca or call 1-888-881-8098.

Currently, this program is available until November 30, 2023.