SLEP Hosts Industrial Familiarization Tour to Showcase Investment Opportunities

Held on September 24–25, the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership hosted a two-day tour showcasing the region’s industrial sites, infrastructure, and investment potential to industrial and commercial realtors, brokers, and developers. This targeted initiative is part of our broader investment attraction strategy and highlights Sarnia-Lambton’s strengths in energy, chemistry, logistics, and advanced manufacturing. 

Sarnia Ranked Among Ontario’s Top 5 Most Affordable Cities

Sarnia has been ranked the second most affordable city in Ontario, and among the top five in Canada, by MoneySense, as reported by Narcity. The ranking considers income, housing, and overall cost of living, highlighting Sarnia’s competitive edge for residents and employers alike. With affordable living, short commutes, and access to natural and cultural amenities, Sarnia-Lambton continues to stand out as a desirable place to live, work, and invest.

Ontario Supports Feasibility Study for Nation-Building Energy Corridor

The Province of Ontario has issued a request for proposals to explore a cross-country energy corridor linking Alberta to Southern Ontario and tidewater ports. With strong support from regional leaders and industry voices, including Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership CEO Matthew Slotwinski, the proposed corridor could strengthen Canada’s energy security, support refinery and infrastructure development, and unlock long-term economic growth.

Chemicals & Energy: Driving Ontario's Industrial Growth

Sarnia-Lambton is the birthplace of Canada’s petrochemical industry and is now home to Ontario’s largest chemical cluster. With three refineries and over 35 interrelated facilities, our region plays a critical role in producing and processing fuels, chemicals, and power across the hydrocarbon value chain. As the sector continues to evolve, the Sarnia-Lambton Hybrid Chemistry Cluster is leading the integration of clean energy and sustainable chemistry, turning renewable resources into new value-added products.

Industrial and Business Parks in Sarnia-Lambton

Sarnia-Lambton is home to a diverse range of industrial and business parks, offering strategically located, fully serviced land for businesses looking to expand or establish operations. With direct access to major transportation networks, competitive land rates, and a strong industrial ecosystem, Sarnia-Lambton provides the ideal setting for manufacturing, research, bio-industrial innovation, and commercial development.

SLEP Attending Key Industry Events this Fall

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:

• Manufacturing Matters, Oct 2
• Anuga 2025, with the Ontario Food Cluster, Oct 4-6
• Battery Show, Oct 6-8
• K Trade Fair, Oct 8-10
• HBC Canadian Hydrogen Conference, Nov 5-6
• 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 2025 IEDC Annual Conference, where SLEP CEO Matthew Slotwinski accepted the Gold Award for Economic Equity and Inclusion for the Sarnia-Lambton Newcomer Connection Program.

Property Feature: HWY 40 Industrial Park

A 138-acre heavy-industrial greenfield property located in the City of Sarnia, the site is strategically established along Highway 40, only a 5-minute drive to provincial Highway 402, and in proximity to the Sarnia Energy & Chemistry Complex and the Canada-US border. The proximity to the major chemical industries makes the site ideal for industrial services and suppliers. The site is located along the Oversized Load Corridor, a designated route allowing for the unimpeded import/export of oversized modules and vessels from fabricator’s locations to the Sarnia Harbour.

Public Comments Invited: Riverside Generating Station Project

Atura Power is proposing the Riverside Generating Station Project, a new natural-gas power-generating facility, located about 16 km south of Sarnia, Ontario.

The Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC) invites Indigenous Peoples and the public to review the summary of the Initial Project Description and provide comments on the proposed project. This feedback will help IAAC prepare a summary of issues that will be given to the proponent.

Sarnia-Lambton Data Consortium

We are excited to announce the newly formed Sarnia Lambton Data Consortium, a proud member of the Southwest Ontario Data Consortium.

This partnership between the Sarnia Lambton Workforce Development Board, Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership, and the City of Sarnia means these members have access to the Community Data Program and, as such, have access to data that would not be possible without this consortium.

Should you have questions or require specific local data, contact a member organization.

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 career coaching session today.

Sarnia-Lambton Newcomer Hub Now Hosting Monthly Office Hours at Goodwill Career Centre

Every first Wednesday of the month, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the Sarnia-Lambton Newcomer Hub is available in person at the Goodwill Career Centre at 1249 London Rd, Sarnia, to support permanent residents as they settle and build their future in our region. Services include access to local programs, one-on-one guidance, employment supports, upcoming workshops, and community events, all designed to help newcomers connect, thrive, and succeed in Sarnia-Lambton.

Celebrating Small Business Week in Sarnia-Lambton

October 19-26 is Small Business Week, a time to recognize the important role that entrepreneurs and small businesses play in building strong local economies.

In Sarnia-Lambton, small businesses drive innovation, create jobs, and contribute to the unique character of our communities. Through the Business Enterprise Centre of Sarnia-Lambton, we offer free one-on-one business advisory services, access to funding programs, and support for every stage of the entrepreneurial journey.

Legacy & Leadership Summit on October 22, 2025 - Free to Attend

The Legacy & Leadership Summit will bring together business owners, advisors, and community partners for a morning of practical insight and strategic discussion. With sessions focused on business transition, growth planning, and long-term strategy, the event is designed to help local businesses strengthen operations today while preparing for the opportunities of tomorrow.

Thanks to the generous sponsorship of Coldwell Banker Southwest Realty, this event is free to attend and offers valuable tools and connections to help preserve business legacies and support continued success in Sarnia-Lambton.

Exploring Business Transition Opportunities in Sarnia-Lambton

Are you considering selling your established business in Sarnia-Lambton? We are working with a network of experienced local entrepreneurs actively seeking opportunities in skilled trades, manufacturing, logistics, service industries, retail, personal care, and agri-business. Business owners thinking about retirement, succession, or simply testing the market will find strong interest from qualified local buyers.

Confidentiality is a priority, and all discussions are handled with discretion. To learn more or schedule a confidential meeting, contact Chantelle Core, Economic Development Officer, at chantelle@sarnialambton.on.ca

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 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.