In this challenging and constantly changing business environment, the West Niagara Chambers of Commerce want to support our Members by providing relevant and up-to-date information. This includes government announcements and support programs, resources, webinars, surveys, and other important updates.

This is a collaborative email to share information that applies to our Memberships at large, sent on behalf of the Grimsby Chamber, Lincoln Chamber, and West Lincoln Chamber.
Working West Niagara | Information Series
The Working West Niagara event series connects you to the wealth of knowledge and resources for small businesses right here in Niagara through one-hour information sessions with local experts. We are committed to providing relevant content, and want to know what topics matter to YOU.

We appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback on our Working West Niagara event series - it will help us plan future events.
Government of Ontario
Applications Open for Ontario's Small Business Support Grant
The Ontario government has opened applications for the new Ontario Small Business Support Grant. The grant, first announced in December, provides a minimum of $10,000 to a maximum of $20,000 to eligible small businesses who have had to restrict their operations due to the Provincewide Shutdown.

Small businesses required to close or significantly restrict services under the Provincewide Shutdown will be able to apply for a one-time grant and use this funding in whatever way makes the most sense for their individual business needs. For example, some businesses could need support paying employee wages, while others could need support with their rent.

Eligible small businesses include those that:
  • Were required to close or significantly restrict services due to the Provincewide Shutdown being imposed across the province effective 12:01 AM on December 26.
  • Have fewer than 100 employees at the enterprise level.
  • Have experienced a minimum of 20 per cent revenue decline in April 2020 compared to April 2019. New businesses established since April 2019 will also be eligible if they meet the other eligibility criteria.

Read the full news release here.
Niagara Region
Tourism Adaption and Recovery Fund Grant Program Update
The Tourism Adaption and Recovery Fund Grant Program will be administered via two application intakes. The first intake will close on January 31. A second intake, depending on the balance of funds remaining, will occur thereafter.
Pillar Statements and Directives Survey
Niagara is growing. As part of the creation of the Niagara Official Plan, we're looking for your input on these draft pillar statements and directives that will guide our plan. Be informed, be involved, and provide your valued input. Survey closes January 21, 2021.
Upcoming Webinars
Niagara’s Small Business Enterprise Centres

Digitally Transforming your Business - How to be a part of the evolving world of marketing
January 20, 2021 at 10 AM

Topics will include - What is a digital strategy? How to establish a buyer profile?; What marketing initiatives will provide you the greatest ROI?; Social media strategy; Website strategy; SEO – what is it?; Paid advertising – how? Where?


eCommerce - Why it’s important and which platform is right for you
January 27, 2021 at 10 AM

Not selling online yet? You’re missing out. With more consumers shopping online than ever before the importance of having an online store is growing. Retailers without a reliable eCommerce system in place are missing out on potential profit to capitalize on.

So, how can you turn your eCommerce business potential into reality? It begins with a great online store that leverages the latest web design tools and professional features. In this virtual class we will explore the benefits of operating an online store and breakdown some of the most popular eCommerce platforms.


Success with Paid Ads on Social & Google
February 3 at 10 - 11 AM

Are you looking to use Social Media advertising, but not sure where to begin? This webinar will show you the steps involved.
Spark Niagara

Government Grants and Tax Credits
Thursday, January 28, 2021 at 12 PM

Grants and tax credits are great but can be difficult to access if you don't know what to look for or how to apply.

For this reason we are pleased to have Danny Ladouceur from RSM Canada join us to discuss these very important topics. A dynamic, bilingual finance professional with extensive experience in the field of corporate finance, strategic planning and advisory services in the areas of SR&ED and government grants, Danny will share his expertise in these and many other areas such as:

  • Government Grants landscape
  • How to identify eligible grants
  • Review a few grant programs
  • Discussion on Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED) program
  • Discussion on Digital Media Tax Credit program
Canadian Chamber of Commerce
Canada 360° – A Business-led Recovery
The West Niagara Chambers of Commerce would like to invite you to join us at the Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s annual Canada 360° Economic Summit, taking place online on February 17 from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM EST.
Canada 360 will feature panel discussions, one-on-one conversations and keynote addresses that will harness the creativity of Canadian businesses to incite the innovative public policies needed to foster a business-led recovery.

The convening of business leaders and government decision-makers at Canada 360 will ensure the needs of the business community are considered in shaping the growth and direction of the economy through 2021and beyond.

For more information on the program, click here.

To take advantage of this free opportunity, select the "Attendee - CA $69.99" option and use the discount code ChamberMember when registering.
Contact Your Local Chamber
Grimsby & District Chamber of Commerce

Executive Director
Lincoln
Chamber of Commerce

Executive Director
West Lincoln
Chamber of Commerce

Executive Director
This email was sent by on behalf of the West Niagara Chambers of Commerce, which consists of the Grimsby & District Chamber of Commerce, the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, and the West Lincoln Chamber of Commerce. You have received this email because you subscribed to our newsletters; your email address will not be shared and will be used only for these updates.
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