Discover the latest programs and initiatives supporting businesses and talent across Sarnia-Lambton.
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SLEP March Newsletter
Welcome to the March 2026 edition of the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership newsletter. Learn more about our latest initiatives, essential business resources, and upcoming events!
Sarnia-Lambton Small Business Grant Program Now Accepting Applications Applications for the Sarnia-Lambton Small Business Grant Program open March 2, 2026 and will be accepted through April 10, 2026. The program provides financial support to local small businesses to invest in marketing, equipment, technology, and operational improvements that strengthen competitiveness and contribute to regional economic growth. Ten successful applicants will each receive a grant of up to $4,000 to apply toward eligible business expenses, based on a submitted project plan. Read the media release here. |
Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership Accepting Applications for Board of Directors The Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership is currently seeking experienced business and community leaders to serve on its Board of Directors. Board members play an important governance role in guiding regional economic development priorities, supporting investment attraction, business growth, and workforce development initiatives across Sarnia-Lambton. This is an opportunity to contribute strategic insight and leadership to initiatives that strengthen the region’s long-term economic competitiveness. |
SLEP CEO Participates in CEIN Ottawa Hill Day
Matthew Slotwinski, CEO of the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership, was in Ottawa last February representing Sarnia-Lambton at the Canadian Energy Innovation Network Ottawa Hill Day.
CEIN brings together leading industrial regions and trade organizations to advance coordinated federal policy recommendations that support industrial growth, emissions reduction, trade stability, and national security. Meetings focused on streamlined permitting in established industrial zones, long-term carbon pricing certainty, protection of CUSMA trade stability, and investment in export infrastructure.
SLEP Investment Attraction & Advocacy Events
Please find below a list of potential SLEP-attended events for 2026–2027. We anticipate attendance to drive investment attraction, facilitate business connections, and advocate. If your business will have a presence or have connections we can assist with, please let us know.
- March 18-20, 2026 - ABLC 2026
- March 23-25, 2026 - Site Selectors Guild Annual Conference
- March 31-April 1, 2026 - NGen N3 Conference
- April 21-23, 2026 - Canadian Hydrogen Convention
- April 20-24, 2026 - Hannover Messe
- June 1-6, 2026 - Global Affairs Canada - Asia Roadshow
- June 9-11, 2026 - Fabtech Canada
- September 14-19, 2026 - International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS)
- September 15-17, 2026 - Canada's Outdoor Farm Show
- October 2026 - Manufacturing Matters
- November 10-12, 2026 - Enlit Europe
- November 16-19, 2026 - RE+ Cleantech Show
National Post Highlights Sarnia-Lambton’s Workforce Advantage Sarnia-Lambton was recently featured in the National Post, highlighting the region’s competitive workforce advantage in attracting energy and advanced manufacturing investment. The article outlines how strong industry partnerships, applied training through Lambton College, and a skilled labour base continue to position Sarnia-Lambton as a strategic location for industrial growth. As global markets prioritize supply chain resilience and technical expertise, the region’s integrated industrial cluster and talent pipeline remain key differentiators. |
SkillUp: Youth Ready Program Prepares Students for the Workplace Last month, the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership delivered the SkillUp: Youth Ready program in partnership with BASES. All 25 student participants earned their Basic Safety Orientation accreditation, gaining industry-recognized training aligned with health and safety requirements. The program focused on hazard recognition, workplace rights, safe work planning, teamwork, and mental health awareness, equipping students with practical skills as they prepare for employment, co-op placements, or post-secondary pathways. Initiatives like SkillUp strengthen Sarnia-Lambton’s local talent pipeline and support employers seeking workforce-ready youth. |
Property Feature: 260 Centre St., Petrolia A 16,000 sq. ft. industrial building is now available for lease at 260 Centre Street in Petrolia, offering M1 zoning and flexible space for manufacturing, warehouse, or commercial industrial services firms. Located within walking distance of downtown Petrolia, just 10 minutes to Highway 402 and 25 minutes to Sarnia, the property provides strong regional access. Features include 420 amp, 600 volt three-phase power, three large grade-level doors, a two-ton overhead crane in a 5,000 sq. ft. bay, exterior laydown space, and secure fenced access. The building is well-suited for companies seeking scalable industrial space in Sarnia-Lambton. |
New Funding Programs Available for Business Growth Two government funding programs are currently open to support business expansion and export development:
Before applying, businesses are encouraged to connect with our team of Economic Development Officers. We provide free, confidential support to assess program fit and offer guidance on application preparation. Contact us at (519) 332 1820 or contact@sarnialambton.on.ca. |
Supporting Economic Growth Across Sarnia-Lambton The Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership continues to advance economic growth through four core pillars: investment attraction, workforce development, business retention and expansion, and small business support services. Our team works directly with companies, site selectors, entrepreneurs, and community partners to strengthen competitiveness, attract new investment, and support local employers at every stage of growth. Whether you are exploring expansion opportunities, navigating funding programs, recruiting talent, or starting a new venture, our services are confidential and provided at no cost. We are here to support your success in Sarnia-Lambton. |
Business Coffee Chat at The Lazy Wave Coffee Collective - March 10, 2026 Our Business Coffee Chats provide local business owners with an informal opportunity to speak directly with the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership team about business retention and expansion supports, including workforce, site selection, growth planning, and available programs. Join us on Tuesday, March 10, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at The Lazy Wave Coffee Collective. Drop in at any time to ask questions, discuss your business goals, and learn how our team can support your next phase of growth. |
Free & Confidential Advisory Services for Entrepreneurs & Small Business Owners The Business Enterprise Centre of Sarnia-Lambton provides free, confidential advisory services to entrepreneurs and small business owners across Sarnia-Lambton. From business planning and market research to funding guidance and growth strategy, our team supports clients at every stage of the business lifecycle. We also deliver programs such as Starter Company Plus and Summer Company, helping entrepreneurs access training, mentorship, and grant opportunities. If you are starting, expanding, or repositioning your business, our advisors are here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. |
Calling All Students Ages 15-29: Summer Company 2026 Grant Program is Accepting Applications! The Business Enterprise Centre of Sarnia-Lambton is now accepting applications for the Summer Company program. This initiative supports students ages 15 to 29 who want to start and run their own business over the summer, providing hands-on training, mentorship, and up to $3,000 grant funding to help turn ideas into action. Participants gain practical business experience, build leadership skills, and contribute to the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Student entrepreneurs are encouraged to complete the intake form and apply early, as funding is limited and awarded on a rolling basis. |
Succession Planning Support for Business Owners Succession Ontario is a provincial resource designed to help business owners plan for transition and long-term continuity. Whether preparing for retirement, ownership transfer, or sale, the program connects companies with guidance, tools, and expert support to ensure a smooth and strategic transition. Early succession planning protects business value, supports employees, and strengthens the broader regional economy. Our team at the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership can also provide confidential advisory support to help assess options, connect you with the right resources, and guide next steps. |
Grant & Funding Programs
The Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership team is pleased to offer complimentary guidance and support in confirming eligibility, refining applications, and connecting qualified proponents directly with provincial and federal program representatives to help transform solid growth plans into funded projects.
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 (SWODF)
The Southwestern Ontario Development Fund provides support for projects and investments to existing businesses, municipalities and not-for-profit organizations for economic development in southwestern Ontario.
- Business projects - funding amount of up to 15% of eligible project costs and loans of up to 15% funding to a maximum of $5M, interest-free during the project period (up to 4 years). If you achieve your investment and job targets, up to 30% of the loan (to a maximum of $500,000) may be forgiven.
- Community economic development projects - funding amount of up to 50% of eligible project costs for a maximum grant of up to $1.5 million.
Application submission period: February 26, 2026 – May 27, 2026
CanExport SMEs
The CanExport SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises) program offers competitive funding to help eligible Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises expand into new international markets.
The program supports businesses by sharing the costs of export-related activities, helping reduce risk and support export diversification. It is intended for companies with meaningful economic ties to Canada, the capacity to grow internationally, and a clear plan to export Canadian goods and services.
Successful projects may receive up to $50,000 in funding for international business development activities. Funding is limited, and applications are assessed on a rolling competitive basis.
- Deadline: May 29, 2026 at 12:00 PM (ET)
- Important: Program requirements have changed since the 2025 application period. Applications that do not reflect these updates may be deemed ineligible. Review what's changed this year before applying.
Ontario Automotive Modernization Program
The Ontario Automotive Modernization Program (O-AMP) is a partnership with small- and medium- sized automotive parts suppliers in Ontario.
Your business could get up to $150,000 to help cover up to 50% of eligible project costs.
As a successful applicant, you are required to contribute at least 50% of remaining project costs through:
- internal business resources
- private or bank financing
For more information, please see the eligible cost guidelines and the O-AMP program guide.
Application deadline: April 16, 2026
Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) in southern Ontario
The RTRI supports businesses and sectors impacted by tariffs through projects that can be executed in the timeframe of this initiative (March 2025 to March 2028).
Businesses can normally request:
- $125,000 to $10 million in repayable funding; or
- $125,000 to $1 million in non-repayable funding.
Not-for-profit organizations can normally request a minimum of $125,000 to $10 million in non-repayable funding.
FedDev Ontario is accepting applications on a continuous basis.
FedDev Ontario - Funding for Businesses in Southern Ontario
FedDev Ontario provides funding and business support to help organizations across southern Ontario innovate, scale their operations, and strengthen regional economic development.
- a minimum of $125,000 up to a maximum of $10 million per project in repayable contribution funding.
- Intake now open
Ontario Centre of Innovation Digitalization Competence Centre Programs
DCC has three program streams to support SMEs in the adoption and implementation of digital technology:
- Digital Modernization & Adoption Plan (DMAP)
- Technology Demonstration Program (TDP)
- Retail Modernization Project Grant (RMPG)
Most OCI programs operate on a rolling or continuous intake basis, allowing applications to be submitted year-round as funding remains available.
Summer Company Program
The Summer Company program gives students aged 15-29 years old the opportunity to launch and run their own business with mentorship, training, and up to $5,000 of grant funding.
Interested students can book a free consultation to learn more about the Summer Company program, confirm their eligibility, and receive guidance on the application process.
Applications open February 2, 2026, with an early bird deadline of March 23, 2026. Grants will be awarded on a rolling basis.
Sarnia-Lambton Small Business Grant Program
The Sarnia-Lambton Small Business Support Grant is a one-time funding opportunity created to support local small businesses that are working to overcome operational challenges or pursue growth opportunities. Delivered by the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership (SLEP), this initiative provides targeted financial support to help business owners strengthen operations and contribute to the region’s economic stability.
Ten successful applicants will each receive a grant of up to $4,000 to apply toward eligible business expenses, based on a submitted project plan.
Applications open March 2, 2026, with a deadline to apply by April 10, 2026.
Sarnia Saves: For Your Home
Up to $15,0001 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 may be eligible for exclusive, limited-time rebates, including free home energy assessments, insulation, draft proofing and more.
Rebates are also available for windows and doors, water heaters and more.
Sarnia Saves: For Your Business
Exclusive, limited-time offer for Sarnia, Brights Grove and Point Edward.
Get up to 100% cost coverage for energy-efficient natural gas equipment upgrades, and free technical support at every step. Enbridge Gas makes it easy to install energy-efficient equipment to improve comfort in your building or facility.
Enbridge Gas has two exclusive offers, Prescriptive Incentive and Custom Incentive. For the Prescriptive Incentive offer, Enbridge Gas has partnered with CLEAResult, a designated program delivery agent, and its network of approved contractors to deliver the program. For more complex equipment and processes, customers will work directly with an Energy Solutions Advisor from Enbridge Gas to access the Custom Incentive offer.
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.
L’art de naviguer dans les conversations difficiles
jeudi, mars 5, 2026
de 11h00 à 12h30.
Webinaire de la Fédération des gens d'affaires francophones de l'Ontario
Business Coffee Chat at The Lazy Wave Coffee Collective
Tuesday, March 10, 2026
9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
The Lazy Wave Coffee Collective, 4247 Oil Heritage Rd, Petrolia, ON
Partner Event: Lambton Shores Agriculture Forum
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Legacy Recreation Centre, Thomas Hall, 16 Allen St., Thedford, ON
CRA Webinar - Tax Help for Self-incorporated and Small Corporations
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
SLEP Webinar, in partnership with CRA
CRA Webinar - Tax Help for Self-Employed, Sole Proprietorship, or Partnerships
Wednesday, March 25, 2026
10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
SLEP Webinar, in partnership with CRA
Business to Business (B2B) Resource Night
Tuesday, March 31, 2026
2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Four Points by Sheraton, 1498 Venetian Blvd. Point Edward, ON
WSIB Health and Safety Excellence Program: Information sessions
Multiple dates available
The WSIB Health and Safety Excellence program helps you make your workplace safer, while earning rebates on your WSIB premiums.
Explore Events by Our Community Partners
We’re proud to highlight upcoming events and workshops led by our valued partners who continue to support business growth and community development across Sarnia-Lambton.
Sarnia-Lambton: A Place to Grow, Invest, and Succeed
With a strategic location, cost-effective business infrastructure, skilled workforce, and a thriving industrial and innovation hub, Sarnia-Lambton offers unparalleled opportunities for businesses. Our strong community, high quality of life, and collaborative business environment make it the ideal place to start, expand, and thrive.
At Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership, we are committed to supporting businesses at every stage. Whether you need guidance on site selection, workforce solutions, funding opportunities, or industry connections, our team is here to help.
Get the support you need to thrive in #SarniaLambton.
