Economic Development Update - November 2024

Updated Saugeen Shores Community Improvement Plan Approved

On Monday August 26, Town council approved the updated Community Improvement Plan (CIP) for Saugeen Shores. CIPs are tools used by municipalities to incentivize development and provide business support within their boundaries.

Specifically, four new programs were added to the CIP that are Business Accessibility Adaptability, Product and Experience Development, Residential Improvement and Agri-Food Tourism grants. County Council committed $15,625 in funding for businesses to apply for the four new grant categories immediately.

Funds are available through to the end of 2024. To learn more about the programs and funding, visit https://www.brucecounty.on.ca/business/business-supports/spruce-the-bruce

To learn more about the updated CIP, visit www.saugeenshores.ca/CIP

Bruce County “Spark” Grant Program

Applications are open for the Bruce County “Spark” Grant Program through the Tourism Innovation Lab with a goal to inspire Bruce County entrepreneurs, small businesses, non-profits, and community groups to come forward with creative ideas that will spark new sustainable tourism offerings, experiences and collaborations in the region. Pitch it to the "Spark" Program for a chance to be selected and receive:

• Receive 3-months of invaluable mentorship
• $3,000 grant to implement your idea
• Additional partner support and resources
• Access to a support network of tourism innovators, entrepreneurs and leaders

The deadline to apply is October 24! Learn more and apply by visiting TourismInnovation.ca/Bruce

Four County Labour Board EmployerOne Survey Now Open!

Calling all Businesses in Bruce and Grey counties. The EmployerOne Survey is a survey of local businesses to better understand labour market demand in our region. No data, No Solutions. Please help us support your workforce needs by completing the survey here.

Southampton BIA Gift Card Program

The SBIA have signed up many member businesses for the Hello Card.  If you have not signed up to be a part of the program, and would like more information, please email the BIA coordinator. Sign up is quick and easy and encourages shopping downtown Southampton.

Businesses in Saugeen Shores – Wait to Hear from Us!

The Town has launched the Saugeen Shores Business Review program in collaboration with the County of Bruce to collect important data from businesses through ongoing interactions. The program will help the Town make data driven decisions and better support our existing businesses. The program will help the Town understand current business challenges, provide necessary business support, help with succession planning, and inspire more people to pursue entrepreneurship.

Businesses/business owners in Port Elgin and Southampton can expect to hear from our team either by phone call or in-person to learn more about your business, and how we can support your success. The program launched on July 2, 2024.

To view a full list of resources from a variety of sources and organizations, visit the Town’s Business Support page.   

Still have questions? Reach out!