Lambton Business Collaborative: Strengthening Local Businesses Together

The Lambton Business Collaborative brings together key partners from Sarnia-Lambton’s economic development ecosystem with the purpose of promoting collaboration between member non-profits and municipal entities to address community issues related to the business environment in Lambton County. 

Key Events:

1. April 8, 2025 – Navigating Tariffs: Financing Solutions for Impacted Businesses (webinar), 12-1 PM. Register here.
    
2. April 14, 2025 – Economic Outlook 2025: Navigating the Unknown, 5:30 to 8:30 PM. Register here.

Navigating Trade & Tariffs: Support for Sarnia-Lambton Businesses

International trade disruptions and tariff changes can significantly impact local operations. Our dedicated resource page provides up-to-date information, expert insights, and financial support options to help Sarnia-Lambton businesses navigate these challenges and maintain global competitiveness.

Canada Tariff Finder: A Valuable Tool for Exporters and Importers

Whether you're expanding into new markets or managing cross-border operations, the Canada Tariff Finder helps businesses identify applicable tariffs on goods exported from Canada. This easy-to-use tool supports informed decision-making and enhances trade planning for Sarnia-Lambton companies competing globally.

Photo from the Canada Tariff Finder webpage

EDC Deploys $5 Billion to Help Exporters
The Government of Canada, through Export Development Canada (EDC), has launched the Trade Impact Program—deploying $5 billion over two years to help exporters navigate global trade challenges. This initiative offers vital support for Sarnia-Lambton businesses facing tariff-related risks such as non-payment, currency fluctuations, limited cash flow, and market access barriers. Whether you're looking to expand internationally or stabilize operations, this program provides targeted financial tools to help you compete and grow globally.

Ontario Doubles Hydrogen Innovation Fund: A Boost for Sarnia-Lambton’s Hydrogen Hub

The Government of Ontario is doubling its Hydrogen Innovation Fund to $30 million, further solidifying the province’s commitment to clean energy and job creation. As Ontario’s Hydrogen Hub, Sarnia-Lambton is well-positioned to lead in hydrogen innovation, production, and investment.

Learn more about Sarnia-Lambton's Hydrogen advantage.

Sarnia-Lambton Showcased on the Global Stage at Hannover Messe

Our team is proud to represent Sarnia-Lambton at Hannover Messe—one of the world’s leading industrial technology trade fairs—where Canada is this year’s official partner country. This opportunity supports our foreign direct investment initiatives by promoting the region’s strengths in advanced manufacturing, cleantech, and hydrogen to global audiences. We’ve collaborated with the Ontario Manufacturing Communities Alliance (OMCA) as we work collectively to strengthen Ontario’s economy and attract high-value investment to Sarnia-Lambton.

Forest Industrial Park: Ontario Investment Ready: Certified Site and Strategically Located

Situated on 55.7 acres of fully serviced land, the Forest Industrial Park in Lambton Shores is an Ontario Investment Ready: Certified Site—ideal for industrial development. Located at 7914 Rawlings Road along Highway 21, this municipally owned property offers excellent connectivity to Highway 402, Sarnia, London, Windsor, and the U.S. border. The site is positioned within a growing hub of agribusiness and manufacturing activity, with an additional 32 acres available for future expansion.

Find Your Perfect Business Location in Sarnia-Lambton

Explore commercial and industrial properties with our Property Search & Analysis Tool. Customize your search, access detailed community data, and let our team assist you in finding the ideal location for your business.

Please contact our team if you require assistance, would like to learn more about a property, or are interested in properties that may not be publicly listed.

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.

Support Ontario Made: Strengthening Local Manufacturing and Our Economy

Ontario Made celebrates and promotes locally manufactured products, helping consumers and businesses support homegrown innovation and jobs.

By choosing Ontario Made, you’re investing in our province’s economic resilience—including the manufacturers and suppliers right here in Sarnia-Lambton.

2025 Local Labour Market Plan: Insights to Shape Sarnia-Lambton’s Workforce Future

The Sarnia Lambton Workforce Development Board has released its 2025 Local Labour Market Plan, offering valuable insights into regional employment trends, workforce challenges, and future skills needs. This data-driven report supports informed decision-making for employers, educators, and policymakers working to strengthen the local labour force and economic resilience.

Find Local Talent Easily with Explore Talent Sarnia-Lambton

Explore Talent connects Sarnia-Lambton employers with local job seekers and skilled professionals. Employers can save time and money by using the portal to view candidate profiles, resumes, and video resumes—all in one place. With 24/7 access, the platform allows you to expand your talent pool and connect with local talent when it works for you.

Starter Company Plus Program is back for 2025: $5,000 Grant & Personalized Mentorship Available for Sarnia-Lambton Entrepreneurs

Whether you're launching a new business or expanding an existing one, this program provides the tools and support to help you succeed. 10 grants are to be awarded this year.

Applications will be accepted from May 1 to June 1, 2025. Interested applicants are encouraged to get started early and learn more by visiting our website and completing the Starter Company Plus Expression of Interest and Intake Form.

Small Business Feature: Yemaya Natural Products

Rooted in nature and crafted with care, Yemaya Natural Products offers a full line of plant-based body care made from locally grown, wild-harvested, and sustainable ingredients. Founder Sandra Bailey handcrafts everything from baby balms to herbal first aid and all-natural deodorants—each product reflecting a deep commitment to wellness, sustainability, and self-care. As a 2024 Starter Company Plus participant and Small Business Enterprise Centre client, Sandra is growing her business and inspiring others to embrace clean, conscious living.

Save the Date: EP Day Returns May 10

After a five-year hiatus, Emergency Preparedness (EP) Day returns for its 14th year on Saturday, May 10, at Lambton College. Presented by BASES and supported by Suncor and Shell, this free, family-friendly event features interactive exhibits, emergency vehicles, live demonstrations, and a Kids’ Fun Zone. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with emergency response professionals and build valuable preparedness skills.

Office Closure: Good Friday & Easter Monday

Please note that our office will be closed on Friday, April 18 and Monday, April 21, in observance of Good Friday and Easter Monday. We will reopen and resume regular business hours on Tuesday, April 22.

We wish you a safe and happy Easter weekend!