Welcome to the February 2025 edition of the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership newsletter! Learn more about our latest initiatives, essential business resources, and upcoming events!
SLEP Joins the Ontario Manufacturing Communities Alliance (OMCA)
We’re pleased to announce that SLEP has joined the Ontario Manufacturing Communities Alliance (OMCA) to further strengthen our region’s manufacturing sector. This collaboration will enhance investment opportunities, support industry growth, and position Sarnia-Lambton as a key player in Ontario’s manufacturing landscape.
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Calling All Students Ages 15-29: Summer Company 2025 Grant Program Intake is Now Open!Be your own boss this summer and gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and up to $3,000 in grant funding to launch and run your own business. If you haven’t already discussed the program with one of our team, attend the Information Session on February 21st to learn more. Click here to register.
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How Can We Support Your Business?Your feedback is invaluable in helping us better understand and respond to the needs of businesses across Sarnia-Lambton. This survey is part of a collaborative initiative between local economic development organizations, focused on supporting businesses like yours. By sharing your insights with the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership and the appropriate economic development team in your municipality, you’ll help us identify opportunities for growth, address challenges, and provide
resources tailored to your needs.
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U.S. Tariff: What It Means for Your Business The U.S. government has implemented a 25% tariff effective February 1st, which impacts businesses engaged in cross-border trade. If your business imports or exports with the U.S., we want to hear from you. Understanding your challenges will help us explore strategies to mitigate the impact and identify opportunities to navigate these changes effectively.
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Expand Your Talent Pool with Explore Talent Sarnia-Lambton
Sarnia-Lambton employers are able to save time and money by utilizing the portal to review candidates' profiles, resumes and video resumes. The portal allows you to expand your talent pool and have access to view talent 24/7.
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Sarnia-Lambton Selected as a Pilot Community for the Rural Economic Development Through Immigration (REDI)
The REDI pilot program enables Sarnia-Lambton to address critical workforce challenges by connecting skilled talent to local opportunities that help strengthen key industries, support business growth, and drive long-term prosperity in the region.
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SLEP at the EDCO 2025 Conference: Advancing Economic Growth for Sarnia-Lambton
Our EDOs will be attending the 2025 EDCO Conference & Showcase in Toronto from February 4-6, connecting with industry leaders, investors, and policymakers to drive new opportunities for Sarnia-Lambton. This conference enhances our ability to attract investment, support local businesses, and position our region for sustainable economic growth.
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Looking to Expand or Invest in Sarnia-Lambton? We offer site selection support, business consultations, workforce development insights, and funding guidance to help businesses thrive in Sarnia-Lambton.
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Prime Industrial Property for Sale in Petrolia: 4320 Discover Line
This meticulously maintained 21,000 sq. ft. industrial facility sits on 10.12 acres in Petrolia’s thriving industrial district. Zoned M1 for diverse commercial and industrial uses, the property features five grade-level bay doors, ceiling heights ranging from 10’ to over 22’, and a 600-amp service. The 3,350 sq. ft. office space includes executive offices and professional boardrooms. Learn more about the property here or contact us.
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Business Coffee Chat is Back!
After a successful launch last year, Business Coffee Chat is back, offering local entrepreneurs and business owners a chance to connect, share insights, and explore available business resources. Join us on February 11, from 9 to 11 AM, at CakeBook Cafe as Invest Sarnia partners with us for an engaging chat over coffee!Photo above is from last year's Business Coffee Chat in Coffee Lodge, Petrolia
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Sarnia has been ranked No. 21 on the U-Haul® Canadian Growth Cities Index for 2024
This marks the sixth consecutive year Sarnia has earned a spot in the top 25, highlighting the region’s ongoing appeal as a destination for individuals and families.
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Expand Your Customer Base with the Welcome to Lambton App
The Welcome to Lambton app is a new platform designed to help local businesses connect with individuals and families settling into the Sarnia-Lambton community. As they explore the region, many are actively looking for their go-to restaurants, service providers, and shopping destinations. This is your opportunity to showcase your business, promote your offerings, and build lasting customer relationships.
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Grant & Funding Opportunities
Discover a range of grant programs and funding opportunities 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.
Critical Industrial Technologies Sector Adoption Program
Ontario-based businesses are invited to lead the charge in transforming Advanced Manufacturing, Agri-Food, Construction, and Mining through robotics-driven solutions. With up to $500,000 in funding available, this challenge aims to advance industrial efficiency, scalability, and workforce innovation. Application Deadline: February 14, 2025
Application Deadline: March 3, 2025
Southwestern Ontario Development Fund (Application Period 19)
The Southwestern Ontario Development Fund is aimed at supporting projects and investments by businesses, municipalities, and not-for-profit organizations to drive economic development in Southwestern Ontario.Application Deadline: May 21, 2025
Summer Company Grant Program
Are you a student aged 15-29 with a great business idea? The Summer Company program provides up to $3,000 in grant funding, expert mentorship, and hands-on training to help you start and run your own business this summer. Gain valuable entrepreneurial experience, earn money, and build skills that will set you apart in the future.Applications are now open!
Community Futures Grant ProgramCommunity Futures Lambton announced $40,000 in grant funding available to support initiatives that enhance and strengthen communities across Lambton County. Non-profits, charities, service clubs, and educational institutions can apply for grants ranging from $500 to $5,000 to support projects in youth initiatives, tourism growth, volunteer development, social and cultural programs, and innovation-driven economic development. Applications open on March 1, 2025.
Sarnia Community Improvement Plan (CIP)
Sarnia's Downtown & Mitton Village Community Improvement Plan (CIP) is a valuable opportunity for local businesses to invest in upgrades while strengthening the community. We encourage business owners to explore this grant program, which supports storefront improvements, energy efficiency upgrades, and more.We encourage applicants to contact the Invest Sarnia team at invest@sarnia.ca who can help assess the fit with the program and provide advice on application preparation.
Upcoming Events & Webinars
Stay engaged with Sarnia-Lambton's thriving business community! Check out these upcoming events and webinars! Don't miss these opportunities to connect, learn, and grow your business.
The Importance of Paid Advertising in a Digital SpaceFebruary 4, 2025
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Webinar by Digital Main Street
Foodpreneur Start-Up Series: Costing & Pricing to Make ProfitsFebruary 6, 2025
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Webinar by Foodpreneur Advantage
IGNITE 2025 Series: Strategies for Dynamic Business Expansion
February 6, 1:00 to 2:30 PM - Product Development and PricingFebruary 13, 1:00 to 2:30 PM - Lead GenerationFebruary 20, 1:00 to 2:30 PM - Record Keeping
Optimizing for Search Engines – Understanding SEO BasicsFebruary 11, 2025
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Webinar by Digital Main Street
Business Coffee Chat at CakeBook Cafe February 11, 2025
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
CakeBook Cafe, 1362 Lambton Mall Rd, Sarnia, ON
Foodpreneur Start-Up Series: Marketing & Branding your Food ProductFebruary 13, 2025
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Webinar by Foodpreneur Advantage
Driving Digital Success: Strategies for Small Businesses to Succeed OnlineFebruary 13, 2025
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Webinar by Digital Main Street
Email Marketing for Small Businesses: Developing A Successful Email Marketing StrategyFebruary 18, 2025
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Webinar by Digital Main Street
How Rise Can Help Entrepreneurs Understand Credit and LendingFebruary 19, 2025
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Webinar shared on SBC Ontario
Intellectual Property Management for Small BusinessesFebruary 20, 2025
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
SLEP MS Teams Webinar
Foodpreneur Start-Up Series: Selling to Food RetailersFebruary 20, 2025
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Webinar by Foodpreneur Advantage
Summer Company Information SessionFebruary 21, 2025
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
SLEP MS Teams Webinar
Web Presence 101 – Ensuring Your Foundation is SetFebruary 25, 2025
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Webinar by Digital Main Street
Empowering Local Businesses: Accessing Services for SuccessFebruary 25, 2025
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Four Points by Sheraton, 1498 Venetian Boulevard, Point Edward, ON
Foodpreneur Start-Up Series: Labelling & Packaging your Food ProductFebruary 27, 2025
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Webinar by Foodpreneur Advantage
Your Partner in Success in Sarnia-Lambton
At Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership, we are dedicated to helping businesses start, grow, and thrive in our region. Whether you need support with site selection, workforce solutions, funding opportunities, or industry connections, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Get the support you need to thrive in #SarniaLambton.
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