Minister Evan Solomon Visits Sarnia-Lambton for Industry Roundtable

Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership recently welcomed Minister Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation and Minister responsible for FedDev Ontario, to the Western Sarnia-Lambton Research Park for a roundtable discussion with local industry and economic development leaders.

The conversation focused on the future of the region's economy, including opportunities in energy, advanced manufacturing, and clean technology. Participants also discussed the impacts of tariffs and shared perspectives on how the federal government can support businesses, strengthen economic resilience, and help safeguard operations in Canada.

Legacy & Leadership Summit Brings Business Leaders Together

Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership hosted entrepreneurs, business owners, and community leaders at the Legacy & Leadership Summit: Spring Momentum, a half-day event focused on business growth, leadership, succession planning, and long-term success.

Attendees gained valuable insights from an exceptional lineup of speakers and panelists who shared their experiences on acquisition, leadership, entrepreneurship, and business transition. SLEP extends its sincere thanks to all speakers, attendees, and event sponsors, including Lead Sponsor Sun Life (Michael Bryce Financial Solutions & Pilkey Financial Solutions) and Supporting Sponsor RBC, for helping make this year's summit a success.

Ten Businesses Awarded the Sarnia-Lambton Small Business Support Grant

Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2026 Sarnia-Lambton Small Business Support Grant. The program provides $4,000 funding and support to help local businesses address operational challenges, pursue growth opportunities, and strengthen their long-term success.

Congratulations to the grant recipients: The Tin Fiddler, Active Playground Equipment Inc., KNK Mechanical Group Inc., Kern Water Systems, Cedar View Farms, Black Gold Brewery Ltd., Greens Organic Cafe & Market Inc., Ipperwash Beach Plaza, Lake Life Studio, and Subsea Propulsion Systems. We look forward to supporting these businesses as they continue to grow and contribute to Sarnia-Lambton's economy.

SLEP Newcomer Hub Recognized with 2026 Business Facilities EDO Award

Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership has been recognized with a 2026 Business Facilities EDO Award in the Mid-Sized EDO category (serving populations of 100,000–500,000) for the Sarnia-Lambton Newcomer Hub initiative.

Launched in April 2025 and funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the Newcomer Hub was created to help strengthen Sarnia-Lambton’s workforce pipeline by connecting newcomers with local employers, professional networks, and community support.

In its first year, the program delivered 12 events and supported 190 participants, exceeding its annual target while helping address workforce needs across key sectors including manufacturing, energy, petrochemicals, and skilled trades.

Read more here.

Join Our Team: Small Business Enterprise Centre Manager

Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership is seeking a Small Business Enterprise Centre Manager to support entrepreneurs and small businesses across the region. This position plays a key role in delivering advisory services, programs, workshops, and resources that help businesses start, grow, and succeed.

Working closely with local business owners, community partners, and government stakeholders, the successful candidate will help strengthen Sarnia-Lambton’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and support economic growth throughout the region. If you are passionate about small business, economic development, and community impact, we encourage you to apply.

Application deadline: June 7, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EST

Starter Company Plus: Applications Open June 15-July 15

The Starter Company Plus program supports entrepreneurs looking to start, expand, or purchase a small business in Sarnia-Lambton. Participants receive hands-on training, one-on-one mentorship, and the opportunity to apply for a grant of up to $5,000 to support business growth.

The program is designed to provide practical guidance and accountability, helping business owners build a strong foundation and move forward with confidence.

Read the media release.

Featured Property: 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

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.

Celebrating Youth Achievement in the Skilled Trades

Congratulations to Levi Mater, recipient of the Apprenticeship Award at the 2026 YMCA Celebration of Youth. Presented by Matthew Slotwinski, CEO of the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership, the award recognizes students who demonstrate excellence in skilled trades education and a commitment to pursuing apprenticeship opportunities after graduation.

Levi's dedication, leadership, and hands-on experience across multiple trades highlight the promising future of skilled trades in Sarnia-Lambton. SLEP is proud to support pathways that connect local youth with rewarding careers and help address workforce needs across industries such as construction, manufacturing, and transportation.

Webinar: Improving Efficiency in Industrial Surface Preparation

Industrial maintenance and surface preparation projects require a careful balance of efficiency, cost control, and worker safety. Join SLEP and 10X Engineered Materials on June 15 for a practical discussion focused on abrasive media selection and strategies to improve project performance in industrial environments.

Participants will gain insights into improving blasting efficiency, reducing abrasive consumption, managing project costs, and supporting safer working conditions. The session will also explore real-world applications across refineries, chemical facilities, pipelines, rail, marine infrastructure, and other industrial sectors, followed by a live Q&A.

📅 June 15, 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.
💻 Free SLEP webinar, in partnership with 10X Engineered Materials

Supporting Business Growth and Investment in Sarnia-Lambton

The Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership works with both local businesses and prospective investors to support growth, expansion, and long-term success in the region. From site selection and investment attraction services to funding guidance, workforce support, and business advisory, our team provides practical, tailored support at every stage. Whether you are exploring new opportunities, expanding operations, or establishing a presence in Sarnia-Lambton, we are here to help you move forward with confidence.

Holiday Office Closure: Canada Day

Please note that our office will be closed on Wednesday, July 1st, for the Canada Day holiday. We will reopen and resume regular business hours on Thursday, July 2.

We wish you a safe and happy holiday!