Welcome to SLEP's November newsletter! Dive into our latest initiatives, essential business resources, and upcoming events!

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SLEP November Newsletter

Welcome to the November 2025 edition of the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership newsletter! Learn more about our latest initiatives, essential business resources, and upcoming events!

The hero image featured in this month's newsletter is courtesy of Christine Coles.

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Sarnia-Lambton Featured in the National Post

Sarnia-Lambton is featured in the National Post for its growing leadership in clean energy and agri-tech. With a skilled workforce, established industrial base, and strategic location with access to major markets, the region continues to attract investment in sustainable industries. The article highlights how collaboration, infrastructure, and innovation are shaping Sarnia-Lambton’s role in Canada’s transition to a low-carbon economy.

Read the Article
 

Ontario Announces Call for Applications for Expanded Hydrogen Innovation Fund in Sarnia-Lambton

The Honourable Sam Oosterhoff, Associate Minister of Energy-Intensive Industries, visited the Western Sarnia-Lambton Research Park to announce a call for applications for the expansion of Ontario’s Hydrogen Innovation Fund (HIF). The event featured remarks from local representatives, including SLEP CEO Matthew Slotwinski, who spoke about the region’s leadership in advancing clean energy solutions. Hosting this announcement in Sarnia-Lambton reflects the province’s recognition of the region’s growing role in Ontario’s hydrogen economy.

Read the Media Release

Burckhardt Compression Opens New Facility in Sarnia-Lambton

Burckhardt Compression, a global leader in reciprocating compressor systems, officially opened its new facility in Sarnia-Lambton. The company provides advanced compression solutions that serve industries across energy, gas, and chemicals, supporting efficient and sustainable operations worldwide. This investment underscores the region’s robust industrial base and its ongoing development as a hub for clean energy and advanced manufacturing.

Advanced Manufacturing
 

Legacy & Leadership Summit Inspires Local Businesses

During Small Business Week, SLEP hosted the 2025 Legacy & Leadership Summit, welcoming more than 110 entrepreneurs, business leaders, and partners from across Sarnia-Lambton for a morning of insight and connection. The event featured keynote speaker Emily Branton of Boss & Buddha and panel discussions with industry experts sharing strategies on growth, leadership, funding, and succession planning. The Summit reinforced Sarnia-Lambton’s strong entrepreneurial ecosystem and commitment to supporting business success at every stage.

Book a Free Consultation

SLEP Hosts TechAlliance’s Founders House, Connecting Entrepreneurs and Innovation Partners

The Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership and the Business Enterprise Centre were pleased to host TechAlliance of Southwestern Ontario’s Founders House, which brought together local entrepreneurs and representatives from Intellectual Property Ontario (IPON), the Ontario Centre of Innovation, and the National Research Council Canada. The session focused on supporting innovation, intellectual property strategy, and business growth opportunities in Sarnia-Lambton.

Learn More

Advancing Sarnia-Lambton’s Investment Opportunities

In October, the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership promoted the region’s strengths and investment opportunities at several major industry events, including K2025, The Battery Show, Anuga, and Manufacturing Matters. These events provided valuable opportunities to engage with international partners, highlight Sarnia-Lambton’s leadership in clean energy, advanced manufacturing, value-added agriculture and food, and sustainable chemistry, and strengthen connections that support long-term economic growth.

Photo: SLEP Associate Economic Development Officer, Theresa Kimmerly, at Anuga 2025, promoting Sarnia-Lambton’s agri-food strengths and global partnerships.

Invest in Sarnia-Lambton
 

SLEP Attending Key Industry Events this November

The Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership team will be attending major conferences and trade shows this fall to promote regional strengths and foster new investment opportunities:

  • HBC Canadian Hydrogen Conference, Nov 5-6
  • HEQCO Conference: ReimaginED Shaping the Future of Ontario PSE, Nov 7
  • Scaling Up 2025, Nov 12-14
  • Ontario Economic Summit, Nov 18-19
  • TCS Europe Roadshow, Nov 24-28

These events provide valuable opportunities to engage with decision-makers, strengthen Sarnia-Lambton’s sector presence, and attract investment that drives long-term economic growth.

Photo from the Chamber Advocacy Days at Queen's Park, where SLEP engaged with provincial leaders on key priorities that support economic growth in Sarnia-Lambton.

Locate in Sarnia-Lambton
 

Supporting Sarnia-Lambton Businesses Through Tariff Relief Programs

To help businesses manage the impact of evolving trade conditions, the federal government has introduced a suite of tariff relief programs, including the Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI), Large Enterprise Tariff Loan Facility, BDC’s Pivot to Grow initiative, and the Strategic Response Fund.

The Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership is available to assist businesses in understanding available supports and navigating application processes to ensure continued growth and competitiveness in the region.

Tariff Resource Page

Industrial Park Feature: 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.

Learn more
 

Sarnia-Lambton Innovation Bridge and Commercialization Hub 

Sarnia-Lambton’s Innovation Bridge and Commercialization Hub connects entrepreneurs, researchers, and industry partners to the resources they need to bring new technologies to market. Anchored by organizations such as Lambton College, the Western Sarnia-Lambton Research Park, and Bioindustrial Innovation Canada, the hub supports every stage of innovation, from concept to commercialization. This collaborative ecosystem helps companies accelerate growth, attract investment, and strengthen Canada’s clean technology and advanced manufacturing sectors.

Innovate & Commercialize

Évènement de networking - SBECs Sarnia Lambton

La FGA a le plaisir de vous convier à un dîner de réseautage en marge de la foire de l'emploi organisée par le Centre Communautaire  Francophone de Sarnia-Lambton  en collaboration avec le Newcomer Hub et le Centre d'Encadrement des Petites Entreprises de Sarnia Lambton.

Cet événement rassemblera des gens d'affaires francophones de la région pour échanger et tisser des liens. Que vous soyez un(e) entrepreneur(e) en activité ou en devenir, ne manquez pas cette occasion unique d'élargir votre réseau et découvrir de nouvelles opportunités!

The FGA is pleased to invite you to a networking lunch held alongside the Job Fair organized by the Sarnia Francophone Community Centre, in collaboration with the Newcomer Hub and the Sarnia-Lambton Small Business Enterprise Centre.

This event will bring together Francophone business professionals from the region to exchange ideas and build connections. Whether you are an established entrepreneur or aspiring to become one, don’t miss this unique opportunity to expand your network and explore new opportunities!

S’inscrire maintenant / Register Now
 

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.

Book Your Free Coaching Session

Visit Us at the Chamber Business Showcase at DeGroot's Nurseries

The Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership team will be participating in the Sarnia-Lambton Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 Business Showcase on November 19 at DeGroot’s Nurseries. This annual event brings together local businesses, organizations, and residents to connect, share ideas, and celebrate the strength of our regional economy. Our team will be on-site to discuss the free business support services available in Sarnia-Lambton, including one-on-one guidance, business planning tools, and programs for entrepreneurs at every stage.

Register Now
 

Foodpreneur Advantage Start-Up Seminar Series

Are you thinking about starting or growing a food business? The Foodpreneur Advantage Start-Up Seminar Series offers expert-led sessions to help entrepreneurs navigate product development, packaging, pricing, regulations, and business planning. This series provides valuable insights and practical tools for anyone looking to launch or expand their food venture in Ontario’s growing agri-food sector.

Foodpreneur Advantage Start Up Seminar Series is brought to you by Foodpreneur Advantage, in partnership with the Business Enterprise Centre of Sarnia-Lambton.

Register for the Seminars

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.

Explore Available Grants & Funding Programs
LEARN MORE

FedDev Ontario - Funding for Businesses in Southern Ontario

Intake now open!

LEARN MORE

Southwestern Ontario Development Fund

Intake now open!

LEARN MORE

Ontario Centre of Innovation Digitalization Competence Centre Programs

Most OCI programs operate on a rolling or continuous intake basis, allowing applications to be submitted year-round as funding remains available.

PROGRAM GUIDELINES

Ontario Centre of Innovation - Retail Modernization Project Grant (RMPG)

First-come, first-served model, while funds last

LEARN MORE

Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) in southern Ontario

FedDev Ontario is accepting applications on a continuous basis. 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).

LEARN MORE

Ontario Together Trade Fund

Intake is Now Open. The intake period is continuous, which means applicants can submit their application at any time while the program is open.

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.

View All Events
REGISTER

How to Sell Your Food Product

Thursday, November 6, 2025
10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Foodpreneur Advantage Webinar

REGISTER

Évènement de networking - SBECs Sarnia Lambton

Friday, November 7, 2025
11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Centre communautaire francophone Sarnia/Lambton, 901 The Rapids Parkway #3 Sarnia, ON 

REGISTER

Hiring Event For Bilingual Skilled Workers

Friday, November 7, 2025
1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Centre communautaire francophone Sarnia/Lambton, 901 The Rapids Parkway #3 Sarnia, ON 

REGISTER

Indigenous Founders Circle: Dream It

Wednesday, November 12, 2025
6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Futurpreneur Canada Webinar

REGISTER

Costing & Pricing to Make Profits

Thursday, November 13, 2025
10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Foodpreneur Advantage Webinar

REGISTER

AI for Marketing and Creativity

Tuesday, November 18, 2025
12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
SLEP Webinar, in partnership with REPLY-ALL

REGISTER

Canadian Government Contracts: Myths Uncovered

Tuesday, November 18, 2025
1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Futurpreneur Canada Webinar

REGISTER

Navigating Through CRA Obligations - Tax Help for T1 Businesses 

Wednesday, November 19, 2025
1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
SLEP Webinar, in partnership with the Canada Revenue Agency

REGISTER

Chamber's 2025 Business Showcase

Wednesday, November 19, 2025
3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. 
DeGroots Nurseries, 1840 London Line, Sarnia, ON

REGISTER

Marketing & Branding your Food Product

Thursday, November 20, 2025
10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Foodpreneur Advantage Webinar

REGISTER

Funding & Hiring Strategies for Your Small Business

Thursday, November 20, 2025
12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
SLEP Webinar, in partnership with Lambton College

REGISTER

Sharing Employer Stories & Immigration Insights: REDI for Success

Monday, November 24, 2025
12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
SLEP Webinar

REGISTER

Navigating Through CRA Obligations - Tax Help for T2 Businesses

Monday, November 24, 2025
1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
SLEP Webinar, in partnership with the Canada Revenue Agency

LEARN MORE

Skilled Trade Community Expo

Wednesday, November 26, 2025
1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Lambton College

REGISTER

Food Safety Fundamentals for Startups

Thursday, November 27, 2025
10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Foodpreneur Advantage Webinar

REGISTER

Getting Started with Business Finances

Thursday, November 27, 2025
12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
SLEP Webinar, in partnership with Profit & Lattes

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.

  • SBC Ontario Events and Webinars
  • Digital Main Street Events & Webinars
  • Workshops by Community Futures Lambton
  • Networking Events by the Sarnia Lambton Chamber of Commerce

Together, We’re Building the Future of Sarnia-Lambton

Rooted in collaboration and driven by opportunity, Sarnia-Lambton is where businesses grow, ideas thrive, and communities prosper. With a strong industrial foundation and a culture of innovation, our region is shaping a sustainable and inclusive future. 

Discover why more people are choosing to live, work, and invest in #SarniaLambton.

CONTACT US
 
 
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SARNIA-LAMBTON ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP

1086 Modeland Road, Building 1050, Suite 100, Sarnia, ON N7S 6L2

www.sarnialambton.on.ca

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