Economic Development and Tourism News
York Region COVID-19 Business Impact and Recovery Survey Results
In May, the York Region Business Impact and Recovery survey was launched by the Regional Municipality of York, in partnership with local municipalities, the York Region Business Coalition of Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade, and the Workforce Planning Board of York Region to assess the implications of COVID-19 on the local business community. The survey was done as part of the ongoing York Region Business Recovery Support Partnership and received nearly 1,000 submissions prior to the survey closing on June 14.

The results provide insight into how York Region’s local business community has been dealing with the economic impact of COVID-19 and its path to business recovery.

The information collected from the survey will help guide our department, partners and stakeholders to develop programs and services to support local business recovery.
Economic Recovery Programs
As a result of our partnership with York Region with the Business Recovery and Impact Survey, and more than 216 conversations with local businesses, the Town's Economic Recovery Team has launched local programs to assist business owners with the unique and diverse challenges they are faced with during the pandemic.

These local measures, along with regional , provincial and federal supports are aimed to assist businesses as they begin to recover from shut down.
What: up to $1,000 per month for a three-month period to assist organizations who are facing a loss of revenue
For: not-for-profit or charitable organizations with a bricks and mortar location*
What: grant to renovate (up to $3,000) or implement new technology (up to $1,500) to address the COVID-19 Pandemic
For: business owners in Georgina's designated improvement areas (BIAs) in Jackson's Point, Keswick and Sutton*
What: maximum rebate of $3,000 for building permit fees
For: all businesses in Georgina *
What: to build a new or expand an existing patio
For: all restaurant establishments in Georgina
*More eligibility requirements apply.

Business support questions?
Georgina's Economic Development team is working remotely and will continue to support businesses during this difficult time by email at  ed@georgina.ca . Contact us by calling Karyn Stone, Manager of Economic Development and Tourism at 905-476-4301, ext. 2312.
Upcoming Events
What to expect during Georgina's virtual Field to Table Farm Tour
Georgina's virtual farm tour kicks off at 9 a.m. this Saturday, July 25. The event will consist of behind-the-scenes access to eight farms where viewers will have the opportunity to learn about how the farmers grow/raise their products and what it's like to live on a farm.

Each farm will be featured through our LIVE stream throughout the day. Stay connected to our Facebook page for the schedule.
Georgina's Farmers' Market will be opening for the 2020 season with increased health and safety measures in line with York Region Public Health and Farmers Market Ontario COVID-19 protocols. Visitors and vendors can be assured that their safety is of the utmost importance. Visitors and vendors can expect:

  • A minimum of 10 feet between vendors
  • One-way pedestrian traffic flow
  • Sanitization stations and signage throughout the market
  • Social distancing markers
  • A vendor hand-washing station
  • Face masks onsite at no cost
  • No common area seating
  • No sampling
  • Staff on site throughout the market monitoring safety protocols
The Georgina Chamber of Commerce provides a fun and safe way to explore the town, while shining a spotlight on small businesses.
For $30 per vehicle, participants will have the chance to win prizes and explore all parts of Georgina, from Pefferlaw to Keswick.
News and Resources
York Region moves to Stage 3
Indoor gathering limits will increase to a maximum of 50 people, while outdoor gathering limits will increase to a maximum of 100 people. Some of the businesses that can reopen include movie theatres, gyms, event spaces, sports facilities and more. Read the full announcement.
Regional Relief and Recovery Fund provides support that federal programs couldn't
Georgina businesses who attempted to access federal relief supports but were ineligible may be able to find support with South Lake Futures Regional Relief & Recovery Fund (RRRF). Learn more.
Federal government extends Emergency Wage Subsidy until December
The Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) funds up to 75% of an employer's employee wages while their business recovers. The program's eligibility has also been expanded to be more inclusive for Canadian businesses that are struggling with revenues. Learn more.
Marine business sales level survey
Boating Industry Canada is looking to gather data on the current sales environment in Canada. They are asking all businesses to complete a 10-question survey.
Clearwater Farm virtually connects kids with nature, the environment and fresh food
ClearwaterKids.org hosts interactive learning tools where kids can explore Clearwater Farm. The interactive site is just one of the projects the farm has embarked on to bring environmental awareness to Georgina and surrounding areas, contributing to the long-term economic well-being of our communities.
Mandatory face mask instructions for business owners in York Region
Effective Friday, July 17, 2020, business owners and operators in York Region must have a policy in place to prohibit people from entering if they are not wearing a face mask or covering. Customers, employees and visitors who enter enclosed public spaces must wear a face mask or covering. Learn more.
Webinars
Joining a webinar may help you get the specific info and advice you need as you navigate this challenging time.  York Link - York Region Economic Development  has created a   list of webinars   from reputable sources that relate to all sectors and business needs.

Mind Your Business
Jennifer Anderson, Executive Director of the Georgina Chamber of Commerce, hosts local businesses and government representatives on Rogers TV to discuss the impacts of COVID-19 and how they are coping. Watch already aired episodes
Featured Properties
Pefferlaw
$649,000
Belhaven
$379.900
Keswick
$199,000

Disclaimer: Listings are provided to the Town from brokers, real estate agents, and various real estate websites. The Town of Georgina assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of any information shown, and does not make any representation, warranties or guarantees of any kind in relation to the listings in this e-newsletter or the properties described therein. Please contact the real estate agent or other contact person identified on the listing to verify all information.
Visit georgina.ca/business for up-to-date news and webinars on COVID-19.
Georgina Economic Development and Tourism