SLEP Represents Sarnia-Lambton at the Global Affairs Canada Europe Roadshow

SLEP CEO Matthew Slotwinski represented the region in London and Zurich as part of the Global Affairs Canada Europe Roadshow 2025. The mission connected Sarnia-Lambton with companies exploring new North American locations and strengthened relationships with federal and provincial partners, including the Trade Commissioner Service, Ontario Investment Offices, and Invest Ontario.

These conversations help open doors for future investment and reinforce Sarnia-Lambton’s position as a reliable place for growth in energy, manufacturing, and clean technology.

Clover IQ and Steward Group Open New Offices at the Western Sarnia-Lambton Research Park

Clover IQ and Steward Group have expanded their operations with new offices at the Western Sarnia-Lambton Research Park, joining a growing community of professional and innovation-focused companies. Their arrival reflects the Research Park’s continued strength as a hub for technology, financial services, and cross-sector collaboration, supported by access to skilled talent and strong regional partnerships. These additions further reinforce Sarnia-Lambton’s reputation as a place where businesses can grow and thrive.

SLEP Presents at Scaling Up Bio 2025 in Ottawa

SLEP CEO Matthew Slotwinski joined Dr. Mehdi Sheikhzadeh, Senior Vice President of Research and Innovation at Lambton College, at the 2025 Scaling Up Bioeconomy Conference in Ottawa. Moderated by Meaghan Seagrave, Executive Director of Bioindustrial Innovation Canada, the discussion highlighted the work of the Sarnia-Lambton Innovation Bridge Commercialization Hub Alliance and the region’s growing role in advancing bioeconomy innovation.

The conference brought together industry, research, and government partners to explore new opportunities that support Canada’s transition to a low-carbon future.

Don’t Miss the Western Ontario Fall Funders Forum: A Funding Opportunity for Local Businesses

On December 4, 2025, the Western Ontario Fall Funders Forum will bring together representatives from key provincial ministries to share up-to-date information on grant and incentive programs. Business owners will have the chance to learn about funding opportunities that support expansion, innovation, and workforce development, and to ask questions directly to ministry partners. The event also provides time to connect with other local businesses and build valuable relationships within the region.

Register for free through this link.

Featured Property: Warwick Industrial Park

Warwick Township has one final parcel available in its established industrial park. This serviced 7.5-acre site offers flexible mixed commercial and industrial zoning, outside storage permissions, and convenient access to Highway 402, the Ontario–Michigan border, and regional markets. With utilities at the road and key studies already completed, this property provides a competitive option for businesses looking to expand in a supportive and well-connected community.

Property Search & Analysis Tool

Our Property Search and Analysis Tool makes it easier to find commercial and industrial properties across Sarnia-Lambton. Users can browse available sites, review community and market data, and customize their search to match specific needs.

If you would like support with your search or want information on properties not publicly listed, our team is here to help.

"Get Out of the Way" - A Mastermind Series for Experienced Business Owners

This fall, experienced business owners met every two weeks to step back from daily operations, clarify priorities, and strengthen their leadership through the Get Out of the Way Mastermind Series. The sessions created space for honest conversations, practical accountability, and clear next steps to build long-term business value in Sarnia-Lambton.

We are now gathering interest for the 2026 Mastermind Group for experienced business owners who want structured peer support and a stronger plan for their business.

To learn more or join the interest list, please email Chantelle Core at chantelle@sarnialambton.on.ca.

Supporting Francophone Entrepreneurs in Sarnia-Lambton / Soutenir les entrepreneurs francophones à Sarnia-Lambton

The Business Enterprise Centre and Sarnia-Lambton Newcomer Hub were pleased to take part in the Centre Communautaire Francophone Sarnia-Lambton Job Fair and the Francophone Entrepreneur and Employer Networking Lunch. We value our partnership with the Fédération des gens d'affaires francophones de l'Ontario (FGA) and were glad to support an event that brought together local residents and visitors exploring opportunities in Sarnia-Lambton.

The Business Enterprise Centre also offers French business support services for entrepreneurs who prefer to meet or access resources in French. /

Le Business Enterprise Centre et le Sarnia-Lambton Newcomer Hub ont eu le plaisir de participer au Centre Communautaire Francophone Sarnia-Lambton Job Fair et au Déjeuner de réseautage des entrepreneurs et employeurs francophones. Nous apprécions notre partenariat avec la Fédération des gens d'affaires francophones de l'Ontario (FGA)  et nous avons été heureux de soutenir un événement qui a rassemblé des résidents locaux et des visiteurs à l'exploration des opportunités à Sarnia-Lambton.

Le Business Enterprise Centre propose également des services de soutien aux entreprises en français pour les entrepreneurs qui préfèrent rencontrer ou accéder à des ressources en français.

Celebrating Our 2025 Starter Company Plus Participants

The 2025 Starter Company Plus cohort has completed this year’s intensive program, gaining practical training, mentorship, and hands-on support to strengthen their businesses. In addition to receiving a $5,000 grant, participants took part in a series of workshops covering entrepreneurial mindset, financial statements, marketing and branding, operations, and personal finance, along with one-on-one coaching through the Business Enterprise Centre.

If you are interested in applying for next year’s cohort, we encourage you to register for our six-part Business Planning Webinar Series to help you prepare and strengthen your application.

6-Part Business Planning Webinar Series on Tuesdays, Starts January 13

The Business Enterprise Centre's six-part Business Planning Webinar Series begins on Tuesday, January 13 and is designed to help new and aspiring entrepreneurs build a strong foundation for their business. These free weekly sessions cover business planning, market research, marketing, operations, and financials, and can help prepare participants who may be interested in applying for the Starter Company Plus grant program. Whether you are starting a business or exploring your options, this series provides practical guidance to support your next steps.

Register for the series:

• January 13 – Business Fundamentals
• January 20 – Market Research
• January 27 – Implementing 4Ps of Marketing
• February 3 – Marketing Fundamentals in the Digital Age
• February 10 – Business Operations
• February 17 – Financial Planning

If you need one-on-one support or want to discuss your business idea in more detail, you can also book a free consultation with the Business Enterprise Centre.

Share Your Experience as a Business Owner

The Government of Ontario is holding research sessions to learn more about your experiences running a business. Your valuable insights will be used to improve existing and future digital services.  

You will have the opportunity to:   

• Share your current experiences running a business in Ontario 
• Provide feedback on proposed designs for future digital services
• Play an important role in shaping digital experiences provided by the government.    

Sign up by completing this survey for a chance to participate.

If you are selected to participate in a research session, you will be compensated with a $60 gift card for one hour of your time.

Book a Free Career Coach with Career Accelerator

Career Accelerator is available to all individuals across Sarnia-Lambton who are looking to take the next step in their careers. This free program offers one-on-one access to an experienced career coach who provides tailored guidance on job search strategies, career development, and goal setting.

Participants build practical skills and gain confidence to navigate today’s job market more effectively.  The program is designed to support participants in strengthening their career readiness and achieving their professional goals.

Limited spaces available. Reserve your free career coaching session today.

Sarnia Saves: For Your Home

Up to $15,000 in rebates for homeowners in Sarnia, Brights Grove and Point Edward.

Improve your home’s comfort and energy efficiency with energy-saving home upgrades from Enbridge Gas.

Homeowners in Sarnia, Brights Grove and Point Edward are eligible for exclusive, limited-time rebates, including free home energy assessments, insulation, draft proofing and electric heat pumps when they work with a program-approved contractor. Rebates are also available for windows and doors, heat pump water heaters and more.

Sarnia Saves: For Your Business

Exclusive, limited-time offer for Sarnia, Brights Grove and Point Edward.

Get up to 100% funding for natural gas equipment upgrades, as well as expert technical support at every step. Any size and type of business can qualify, from small local businesses to large industrial operations and more.

Enbridge Gas makes it easy to increase productivity with energy-efficient equipment, lower your operating costs and improve comfort in your building or facility.