Economic Development Updates

March 14, 2018
RESULTS - Lake of Bays Annual Business Survey
The annual business survey (2017 year-end) received 63 responses, a slight increase from the 60 responses in 2016.

KEY FINDINGS

  • 73.2% of businesses are satisfied or very satisfied with the business climate in Lake of Bays, an increase of 18.2% from 2016.
  • 57.1% reported a net profit increase in 2017, an increase of 8.8% from 2016.
  • 20% of businesses are new start-ups within the past 4 years.
  • 37.5% are home-based businesses.
  • 48.2% of businesses reported experiencing challenges with employee recruitment and/or employee retention.
  • Lake of Bays businesses are investing for future growth:
  • 51.8% purchased new equipment or technology,
  • 33.9% made physical improvements to their place of business,
  • 32.1% expanded or changed their product line, and
  • 8.9% expanded their floor space.

FULL RESULTS

Voter Look Up
Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) has officially launched Voterlookup.ca in support of the 2018 Municipal Election.

Voterlookup.ca is an easy and efficient way for electors to confirm they are on the list to vote for the upcoming municipal and school board elections.

Visit Voterlookup.ca or call MPAC at 1-866-296-6722 to confirm that you are on the list and that your information is correct.

Business Events/Workshops
BREAKFAST AND LEARN - Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program

Challenged by finding qualified candidates with specific skill sets? Enjoy complimentary breakfast while you learn if the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program is the right solution for your business. Organized by Simcoe Muskoka Workforce Development Board.

When: March 29, 2018, 7-9am
Where: Georgian College Campus, Bracebridge (Simulcast)
Cost: FREE (includes breakfast!)
To register: click here
Funding Opportunities
YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP PLACEMENT PROGRAM (YEPP)

16-week placement program that matches an innovative for-profit company with a high-potential youth (18-29). IION provides wage support ($7,100) and training, the company provides mentorship, and the youth provides skills. The business must co-apply with a youth. For more information, visit: iion.ca/yepp/.

Contact: Emily Ryan at emily@iion.ca or 705-474-7600 ext. 5660 to discuss your eligibility as an "innovative business".

Deadline: March 29, 2018
SUSTAINABLE NEW AGRI-FOOD PRODUCTS & PRODUCTIVITY PROGRAM (SNAPP)

Agriculture and food producers (business or non-profit) can receive up to $5,000 at 75% of costs towards the purchase of equipment for eligible activities (e.g. new product creation, season extension, enhanced productivity, adopt clean technology, etc.). For more information, visit: rainalgoma.ca/snapp/

Contact: Allison Muckle at allison.muckle@rethinkgreen.ca or 705-694-0165.

Deadline: March 31, 2018
STEP FORWARD ENTREPRENEURS PROGRAM (SFEP)

Innovative for-profit businesses can receive up to $5,000 at 85% of eligible costs to assist with a variety of costs, including: Trade Shows and related Travel Expenses; Training, Certifications or Licenses; Market/Product Research or Market-entry Fees; IP Assessment / Protection; Marketing and Promotional Materials; Business Growth Expertise; or Export Development. For more information, visit: iion.ca/sfep/

Contact: Matthew Doherty at matthew@iion.ca or 705-474-7600 ext. 5602.

Deadline: Ongoing intake with monthly reviews until funds are dispersed.
TRIPLE P PROGRAM

Innovative for-profit businesses can receive up to $10,000 at 85% of eligible costs to purchase equipment or technology related to an innovative commercial product, process or service. For more information, visit: iion.ca/triple-p/
 
Contact: Matthew Doherty at matthew@iion.ca or 705-474-7600 ext. 5602.

Deadline: Ongoing intake until funds are allocated.
Please feel free to share this information with anyone who may be interested.

Kind regards,

Jennifer Clancy

TOWNSHIP OF LAKE OF BAYS | Economic Development Coordinator
Tel: 705-635-2272 ext.235 | Email Jennifer