Welcome to the June 2025 edition of the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership newsletter! Learn more about our latest initiatives, essential business resources, and upcoming events!
You Are Invited: SLEP 2025 Annual General MeetingJoin us on Tuesday, June 24, for the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership’s Annual General Meeting, taking place from 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at the Parkway Bar & Grill, St. Clair Parkway Golf Course, 132 Moore Line, Mooretown, ON. Open to the public, registration is required by Tuesday, June 17, 2025. Breakfast will be provided. This year’s keynote presentation, “Lambton Site: Exploring New Energy Opportunities,” will be
delivered by David Donovan, Vice President, Strategy, and Andrea Brown, Director, Strategy & Business Development at Ontario Power Generation (OPG). The presentation will introduce OPG’s exploration and assessment of new generation potential in Sarnia-Lambton. A Q&A session will follow, and attendees are encouraged to submit questions when registering.
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Ontario Is Sarnia-LambtonThe Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership is proud to be featured in the Ontario Is campaign, an initiative by Invest Ontario that showcases the communities and industries driving Ontario’s economy forward. Our participation highlights Sarnia-Lambton’s strengths in sustainable energy, advanced manufacturing, and innovation, positioning the region as a strategic location for business growth and investment. View the Ontario Is Sarnia-Lambton
LinkedIn campaign here.
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Associate Minister-Energy Intensive Industries Sam Oosterhoff and MPP Bob Bailey Visit Sarnia-Lambton SLEP recently welcomed Associate Minister of Energy-Intensive Industries Sam Oosterhoff and Sarnia–Lambton MPP Bob Bailey for a tour of several major industrial and innovation sites across the region. The visit included stops at the Western Sarnia-Lambton Research Park, Imperial Oil, NOVA Chemicals, Enniskillen Greenhouse, and ARLANXEO. Discussions focused on the region’s energy needs, industrial capacity, and hydrogen strategy. This engagement reinforces the province’s recognition of Sarnia-Lambton’s vital role in advancing Ontario’s energy and low-carbon economy. Photo of Associate Minister Sam Oosterhoff from his visit to Sarnia-Lambton in September 2024.
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Representing Sarnia-Lambton at the Global Energy Show Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership CEO Matthew Slotwinski will attend the Global Energy Show in Calgary from June 10–12. As one of North America's leading energy exhibitions, the event brings together key players in traditional, transitional, and renewable
energy. Matthew’s participation reinforces Sarnia-Lambton’s position as a hub for sustainable energy and advanced manufacturing, while opening doors to new investment, innovation, and strategic partnerships. Showcasing our region on the global stage helps attract opportunities that drive long-term economic growth for Sarnia-Lambton. Photo from the Global Energy Show website.
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Strengthening Industry Ties at PetroChem Canada Shauna Carr, Economic Development Officer at the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership, will be attending PetroChem Canada on June 18–19, 2025, in Toronto. The conference brings together leaders from Canada’s downstream petrochemical and chemical manufacturing sectors to explore trends, innovation, and investment opportunities. Shauna’s participation reflects
Sarnia-Lambton’s continued leadership in industrial development and supports our efforts to attract strategic partnerships, drive sustainable growth, and showcase the region’s unique advantages in the chemistry and energy sectors.
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Showcasing Sarnia-Lambton’s Hydrogen Leadership in Toronto Shauna Carr, Economic Development Officer at the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership, will be speaking at the Hydrogen East Toronto conference on June 18–19, 2025. As part of Session 6, Shauna will highlight regional cross-border innovation in hydrogen-fueled transportation technologies, reinforcing Sarnia-Lambton’s role as Ontario’s Hydrogen Hub. Her participation underscores our commitment to advancing clean energy solutions and building strategic partnerships that position Sarnia-Lambton at the forefront of the low-carbon economy.
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Strategic Lab, Research, and Office Space at the Western Sarnia-Lambton Research Park The Western Sarnia-Lambton Research Park offers premier space for innovation-driven companies looking to grow in a collaborative, future-focused environment. With customizable office and lab space, access to advanced research
infrastructure, and the innovation and commercialization hub, the park supports a wide range of sectors—from clean technology and sustainable chemistry to engineering and biotech. Its location in the heart of Ontario’s energy and advanced manufacturing corridor makes it a prime site for business expansion.
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Industrial and Business Parks in Sarnia-Lambton Sarnia-Lambton is home to a diverse range of industrial and business parks, offering strategically located, fully serviced land for businesses looking to expand or establish operations. With direct access to major transportation networks, competitive land rates, and a strong industrial ecosystem, our region provides the ideal setting for manufacturing, research, bio-industrial innovation, and commercial development. Whether you are seeking a large-scale heavy industrial site, an investment-ready light industrial land, research and innovation facilities, or a business-friendly location with access to skilled talent,
with an assortment of greenfield and brownfield sites, Sarnia-Lambton has the right space for you.
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Sarnia-Lambton Beaches and Marinas Earn International Blue Flag RecognitionSarnia-Lambton is proud to once again be home to two of Canada’s 16 Blue Flag beaches and two of the country’s nine Blue Flag marinas for 2025. The internationally recognized Blue Flag certification is awarded to beaches and marinas that meet rigorous standards for water quality, safety, environmental education, and sustainability. This designation reinforces our region’s commitment to preserving clean, accessible waterfronts and
enhances our appeal as a top destination for tourism, recreation, and quality of life.
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Live, Work, and Thrive in Sarnia-Lambton Strong communities are the foundation of a resilient economy. Sarnia-Lambton offers an exceptional quality of life, making it an ideal destination for families, businesses, and professionals looking to establish roots in a thriving community. From stunning waterfronts featuring two internationally recognized Blue Flag Beaches and Marinas, 100 km worth of trails and 10 Conservation Areas to dynamic cultural experiences, Sarnia-Lambton offers big city amenities and small town friendliness.
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How Can We Better Support Your Business? Take the BR&E Survey
Your feedback is essential in strengthening the local business environment in Sarnia-Lambton. Through our Business Retention & Expansion (BR&E) survey, SLEP and community partners (municipalities and Invest Sarnia) gather insights to better understand the challenges, opportunities, and support needed for businesses like yours to thrive. Your input helps drive strategic initiatives, funding opportunities, and policy decisions that directly impact the success of businesses in our region. In addition to the survey, our team provides personalized BR&E consultations to help businesses navigate growth strategies, funding programs, and industry connections. Take the survey today or book a consultation to access tailored support for your business.
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Helping Entrepreneurs Start, Grow, and Succeed in Sarnia-Lambton Thinking about launching or expanding your business? The Business Enterprise Centre of Sarnia-Lambton offers free, confidential consultations to help you navigate the path to your business success. Whether you need guidance on business planning, permits,
funding, or marketing, our team provides tailored advice and access to key resources. It’s a valuable first step for entrepreneurs and small business owners looking to make informed decisions and grow with confidence in Sarnia-Lambton.
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Connecting Local Talent with Skilled Trades Opportunities The Sarnia-Lambton Apprentice Job Match tool helps bridge the gap between aspiring apprentices and employers in the skilled trades. Designed to support workforce development in the region, the platform simplifies the hiring process by connecting qualified candidates with businesses seeking talent. If you are an employer looking to grow your team or an individual starting a career in the trades, this free tool makes it easier to find the right fit locally.
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Find Local Talent Easily with Explore Talent Sarnia-Lambton Explore Talent makes it easier for Sarnia-Lambton employers to find and engage with local talent. The free platform allows businesses to post opportunities, browse candidate profiles, and promote roles across a regional network focused on workforce development. With a streamlined interface and dedicated local reach, it’s an efficient tool to help meet your recruitment goals and build a resilient team right here in Sarnia-Lambton.
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Attract and Retain Talent Through the REDI Pilot The Regional Economic Development through Immigration (REDI) pilot helps Sarnia-Lambton employers fill persistent labour gaps by connecting them with skilled foreign workers eligible for permanent residence through the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). Designed to support long-term workforce stability, REDI offers a reliable pathway for employers to attract talent committed to living and working in the region. It’s a practical solution for businesses seeking to build a resilient, future-ready team in today’s competitive labour market.
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Supporting Permanent Residents Through the Sarnia-Lambton Newcomer Hub The Sarnia-Lambton Newcomer Hub is designed to help Permanent Residents settle, establish, and thrive in Sarnia-Lambton. Through tailored support services, including career guidance, mentorship, soft skills development, and entrepreneurial resources, the Newcomer Hub empowers permanent residents to build meaningful connections and succeed in the local economy. By fostering inclusion and opportunity, the Newcomer Hub strengthens both individual outcomes and the region’s workforce resilience.
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Future-proof your team with the free Seeding Digital Skills program Give your business a competitive advantage and upskill your workforce with the Seeding Digital Skills program. Embrace the future of smart farming and food innovation while boosting productivity and profitability with cutting-edge digital twin technology training, available at no cost. This 12-week program equips your team with the skills to build and apply digital twins—real-time, 3D simulations that boost productivity, reduce waste, and optimize operations. For more information, access the brochure here. Upcoming Information Sessions: - Jun 4, 12:00 to 1:00
PM
- Jun 11, 12:00 to 1:00 PM
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Office Closure: Canada Day
Please note that our office will be closed on Tuesday, July 1st, in celebration of Canada Day. We will reopen and resume regular business hours on Wednesday, July 2nd.
We wish everyone a safe and enjoyable holiday as we celebrate our nation’s history, culture, and community spirit.
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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.
Ontario Together Trade Fund
The Ontario Together Trade Fund (OTTF) provides financial support to help businesses with near-term investments so they can serve more interprovincial customers, develop new markets and re-shore critical supply chains in the face of U.S. tariffs. With a focus on small and medium enterprises (SMEs), the program will help businesses build local capacity, enhance trade resiliency, and make the necessary investments to successfully expand into new markets.
Intake is Now Open. The intake period is continuous, which means applicants can submit their application at any time while the program is open.Information Sessions: - OTTF Program Information Session: June 5th
- OTTF Program Information Session: June 19th
Trade Impacted Communities Program The Trade-Impacted Communities Program (TICP) will help communities and local industries in Ontario navigate significant economic challenges caused by U.S. trade disruption. It supports local projects that align with Ontario’s key economic priorities: - Economic resiliency: Projects that strengthen competitiveness and build local opportunities for economic growth.
- Supply-chain
diversification: Projects that support Ontario’s strategic priority sectors and their supply chains, including advanced manufacturing, automotive, life sciences, technology, critical minerals, forestry, and agri-food.
- Trade partnerships: Projects that increase exports and investment to reduce reliance on U.S. markets.
The program will be delivered across the province and will prioritize projects not covered under other provincial programs. Projects must be undertaken and completed within a two-year period.
Export Development Canada Trade Impact ProgramExport Development Canada (EDC) has introduced the Trade Impact Program to provide enhanced financial solutions and strategic support for Canadian companies navigating trade disruptions and U.S. market volatility. With up to $5 billion in additional support, the program includes expanded guarantees, direct lending, collateral replacements, and credit insurance enhancements.
Key updates include extended FX contract coverage, working capital solutions, customs bond guarantees, and tariff-inclusive receivables insurance. Employers are encouraged to explore how these tools can help stabilize operations, manage risk, and diversify export markets with greater confidence.
Clean Fuels FundThe Clean Fuels Fund supports projects that advance clean fuel production and reduce emissions across Canada. With funding available up to $50 million per project for capital investments and up to $5 million for studies, the program helps de-risk large-scale clean fuel initiatives, including facility builds, expansions, and biomass supply chains.Intake 2 is accepting applications, with projects required to be completed by March 31, 2030. Applications are accepted on a continuous basis and may close once available funding is fully subscribed.
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. You can also visit sarnialambton.on.ca/events for a full list.
Go Global: Market Diversification Opportunities for Cleantech Businesses - Asia and Latin AmericaWednesday, June 4, 2025
11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Webinar by TCS
Foodpreneur Advantage Start-up Series: Labelling & Packaging your Food Product Thursday, June 5, 2025
10:00 to 11:00 AM
Webinar by Foodpreneur Advantage
Go Global: Market Diversification Opportunities for Cleantech Businesses - Europe & AfricaThursday, June 5, 2025
12:00 PM to 2:00 PM
Webinar by TCS
Ontario Together Trade Fund (OTTF) Webinar - June 5 SessionThursday, June 5, 2025
1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
Webinar by MEDJCT
Personal Support Workers Employer Session: Overcome Your Health Care Staffing Shortage with REDI ProgramTuesday, June 10, 2025
10:00 to 11:00 AM
SLEP Webinar
Master Instagram Reels to Increase VisibilityThursday, June 12, 2025
9:30 AM to 11:30 AM
SBC Ontario Partner Webinar
Small Business Finance Series 4/5: HST for Small BusinessesThursday, June 12, 2015
12:00 to 1:00 PM
SLEP Webinar
Make Your Social Media Work For YouFriday, June 13, 2025
3:00 PM to 4:00 PM
SBC Ontario Partner Webinar
Clarity and Creation - for Business Owners and EntrepreneursMonday, June 16, 2025
9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
The Lake Hound, Grand Bend, ON
The Secret to High-Converting Ad CreativeTuesday, June 17, 2025
6:00 PM to 7:00 PM
SBC Ontario Partner Webinar
Turning Communication Into ConnectionWednesday, June 18, 2025
6:00 PM to 8:30 PM
The Insignia Hotel, Sarnia, ON
Business Coffee Chat at Anita Coffee CartThursday, June 19, 2025
9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Anita Coffee Cart, Camlachie, ON
Ontario Together Trade Fund (OTTF) Webinar - June 19 SessionThursday, June 19, 2025
1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
Webinar by MEDJCT
2025 SLEP Annual General Meeting Tuesday, June 24, 2025
8:00 AM to 9:30 AM
Parkway Bar & Grill, St. Clair Parkway Golf Course, Mooretown, ON
Understanding Consumer Protection RequirementsTuesday, June 24, 2025
9:30 AM to 10:30 AM
SBC Ontario Partner Webinar
Show Up & Sell with Instagram StoriesThursday, June 26, 2025
9:30 AM to 11:30 AM
SBC Ontario Partner Webinar
Small Business Finance Series 5/5: Income Tax Planning for Small BusinessesThursday, June 26, 2025
12:00 to 1:00 PM
SLEP Webinar
Opportunity Starts Here in Sarnia-Lambton
At the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership, we’re here to help your business thrive, whether you're starting up, scaling up, or settling into the region. Our team provides customized support from site selection and funding navigation to workforce connections and market expansion strategies. Connect with us to explore what’s possible in #SarniaLambton.
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