Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership: Monthly Digest
SLEP August Updates
Welcome to the August edition of the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership newsletter!
This month, we're excited to highlight the significant strides made by the Sarnia-Lambton Immigration Task Force in advancing its strategic action plans, including SLEP's successful Newcomer Connection Program and a new Federal Immigration Pilot application. Discover various funding opportunities such as the Southwestern Ontario Development Fund and Ontario's Regional Development Program. Stay updated about the available programs for your business and the free services we offer, and do not miss our upcoming networking events and webinars!
Sarnia-Lambton Immigration Task Force Action Plans Update
The Sarnia-Lambton Immigration Task Force has made significant progress in advancing its strategic action plans to support immigration initiatives within our community. These efforts underscore the Task Force's commitment to creating a welcoming environment for newcomers, fostering economic growth, and enhancing cultural diversity in Sarnia-Lambton.
Key highlights include the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership's Newcomer Connection Program, which has facilitated events and networking sessions for 450 newcomers and 150 local employers, resulting in 70 new jobs. Additionally, we have submitted an application for a Federal Immigration Pilot to attract skilled newcomers and address in-demand positions within the community.
Meet Our Summer Company Program Participants
We are proud to introduce the talented and innovative students of this year's Summer Company Program. These young entrepreneurs are leading the way with their creative business ideas. Through mentorship and support, they are developing essential skills to succeed in the competitive business landscape.
Civic Holiday Office Closure
Please be advised that our office will be closed on Monday, August 5, in observance of the Civic Holiday. We will resume normal operations and all business consultations on Tuesday, August 6. We hope you have a safe and enjoyable holiday! For any urgent inquiries, please feel free to contact us through our website or email us at contact@sarnialambton.on.ca
Incentives & Programs
Discover a range of funding opportunities and programs designed to support and enhance your business growth.
We encourage applicants to contact our team of Economic Development Officers at 519-332-1820 or email contact@sarnialambton.on.ca who can help assess the fit with the program and provide advice on application preparation.
Southwestern Ontario Development Fund Opens for New Round of Applications. The submission period is from July 2 - September 17, 2024.
Interest-free loan funding up to 15% to a maximum of $5M, and up to 30% of the loan (up to $500,000) may be forgiven. Applicants are encouraged to contact our team of economic development officers who can help assess the program fit and provide advice on the application process.
Ontario's Regional Development Program - AMIC Stream. The submission period is from July 29 - September 26, 2024.
The Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Competitiveness (AMIC) stream offers funding to help you invest in technology, equipment, reshoring manufacturing, or skills. Eligible companies can benefit from interest-free loans up to $5 million, with the potential for partial loan forgiveness, or grants up to $500,000.
NGen Seeking Expressions of Interest for the Advanced Manufacturing Homebuilding Challenge
Help revolutionize homebuilding in Canada. NGen is seeking partnerships to innovate in:
- Accelerated house production, greener processes and cost reduction
- AI, Robotics, and Automation for efficient, customizable home manufacturing
- Sustainable materials and greener energy solutions
- Standardizing designs and enhancing quality control
Skills Development Fund (SDF) Training Stream Is Now Accepting Applications Until October 4, 2024
The SDF Training Stream supports:
- Projects that address the labour shortage and stimulate growth in key sectors of Ontario’s economy
- Projects that will increase Ontario's long-term economic competitive advantage by creating a sustainable and resilient workforce
- Projects helping people with prior involvement in the criminal justice system, racialized persons and Indigenous peoples, those with disabilities, and others facing barriers to employment
Community & Business Bulletin
Stay informed with the latest updates in Sarnia-Lambton. Our Community & Business Bulletin highlights local success stories, our business services, property features, and more!
Grow Your Food & Beverage Business with Foodpreneur Advantage
Foodpreneur Advantage is designed to support and nurture your food-based business. This program provides valuable resources, mentorship, and training to help aspiring food entrepreneurs turn their ideas into successful ventures. Whether you're starting a new food business or looking to grow an existing one, the Foodpreneur Program offers the tools and guidance you need to thrive.
Celebrating 150 Years of Petrolia!
Join us in celebrating the 150th anniversary of the Town of Petrolia! This milestone marks a rich history of community spirit, innovation, and growth. Throughout the year, Petrolia will host various events and activities to honour its heritage and look forward to a bright future.
Don't miss the Petrolia 150 Parade on Saturday, August 17, 2 pm, at Downtown Petrolia.
Featured Property for Sale: 2109-2111 London Line, Sarnia, ON
Explore this featured property for sale located on London Line in Sarnia. This prime location offers excellent opportunities for businesses looking to expand or establish a presence in our vibrant community. With its strategic position and ample amenities, this property is ideal for a variety of commercial purposes.
Discover more details and see how this location can meet your business needs.
We recently conducted a business retention and expansion consultation visit with Subsea Propulsion Systems, located at 5271 Nauvoo Road, Watford, ON. During the visit, Chantelle Core, Economic Development Officer and Greg Hilliard, Owner of Subsea Propulsion Systems, discussed the innovative advancements and contributions Subsea Propulsion Systems is making in the marine technology sector. This company is a key player in our local economy, and we are committed to supporting their growth and success.
Upcoming Events & Webinars
Stay engaged with Sarnia-Lambton's thriving business community! Check out these upcoming community events, including our business support hours. Don't miss these opportunities to connect, learn, and grow your business. Register now to secure your spot!
Business Support Hours for Warwick Businesses
- Date: August 14. 2024
- Time: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
- Venue: Township of Warwick Municipal Office, 5280 Nauvoo Rd. Watford, ON.
- To register: Call 519-332-1820 or email our office at smallbusiness@sarnialambton.on.ca. Walk-ins are also welcome.
Building an Impactful Business: Integrating Economic, Environmental, and Social Goals with the Flourishing Business Canvas with Antony Upward
- Date: August 28, 2024
- Time: 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm
- This is an online webinar hosted by SLEP and Flourishing Business. Kindly register through the registration link below.
Foodpreneur Advantage Start-up Seminar: Starting a Food Business & Regulatory Compliance
Join this free 60-minute online seminar on August 22nd at 10:00 am to gain essential knowledge for starting a food and beverage business. This session will cover creating a business model, market research, competition analysis, and regulatory compliance. Click the button to register
Foodpreneur Advantage Start-up Seminar: How to Sell Your Product
Join this free 60-minute online seminar on August 29th at 10:00 am to learn how to successfully sell your food product at markets, online, or to retailers. Nicole Haney, former Founder & CEO of Boho Bars, will share insights on pricing, marketing, and positioning your product. Click the button to register.
Explore These Networking Events Hosted by the Sarnia-Lambton Chamber of Commerce!
- Aug 6 - The Chamber's Young Professionals Indoor Golf at Sticks & Stones
- Aug 13 - Lunch & Learn with Stephane Thiffeault
- Aug 21 - Business After Five at Coldwell Banker Downtown
- Aug 22 - Women in Business with Dawn Williams
Join our Economic Development Officers at the Warwick Twilight Business Mixer
- Date: September 5, 2024
- Time: 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm
- Venue: East Lambton Community Complex, 61 Centennial Ave. Watford, ON
- This event is hosted by the Sarnia Lambton Chamber of Commerce and the Township of Warwick
DID YOU KNOW?
Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership is the County of Lambton's economic development agency. We work continuously to make Sarnia-Lambton a better place to work, live, and invest. Funded by the County, the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership has a focus on promoting the distinct advantages that Sarnia-Lambton proudly offers companies and residents. By coordinating community-based economic development initiatives and working to maintain a commercially attractive environment, we foster new business creation, help ensure that established firms remain and grow here, and work to attract growing businesses in Sarnia-Lambton.
Our services include industry and business attraction, site selection, community awareness, entrepreneur and small business consultations and workshops, supporting existing businesses, and workforce and entrepreneur support.
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