What's New This Week - March 13, 2025

Written by 

Robin Cooke

 — 

March 13, 2025

What's New This Week - March 13, 2025

Financial Support Available for Ontario Farm Businesses

In response to potential U.S. tariffs, the Canadian government has announced new financial assistance programs for farm businesses.

🔹 Farm Credit Canada (FCC) Trade Disruption Support – Offers up to $500,000 in additional credit and loan deferrals.
🔹 BDC Pivot to Grow Program – Provides financing and advice for SMEs impacted by tariffs.
🔹 Employment Insurance (EI) Work-Sharing Program – Expands eligibility and extends support to 76 weeks.
🔹 Export Development Canada (EDC) Trade Impact Program – $5 billion in funding to help exporters manage trade disruptions.

Existing programs such as Risk Management, Agri-Invest, Agri-Stability, Production Insurance, and the Advance Payment Program continue to provide financial stability for farmers.

Read the Full Article Here

For over 80 years, Export Development Canada (EDC) has stood tall at the moments when Canadian companies needed them most, helping our exporters overcome significant economic challenges.

That’s why EDC is prepared to facilitate an additional $5 billion in support over two years to help eligible companies adjust and adapt to new market uncertainty.

The EDC Trade Impact Program’s expanded capacity will apply to a suite of EDC financing and insurance solutions. Whether businesses need working capital to manage existing contracts, potential decreases in sales, or volatility in the Canadian dollar exchange rate, or insurance to protect against the risks associated with supply chains—EDC solutions can help.

Find Out More Here

Tips for Starting and Scaling Your Business in Canada

Starting and growing a business requires careful planning and the right resources. Here are key tools and support programs to help entrepreneurs succeed:

  • Government of Canada: Starting a Business – A five-step guide to creating a strategic plan before launching your business in Canada.
  • Business Benefits Finder – Discover government funding, wage subsidies, expert advice, and more to support your business growth.
  • BDC’s Business Performance Benchmarking Tool – Compare your company’s revenue and profits per employee with industry peers to measure performance.
  • Exporting, Importing, and Trading – Expanding into international markets can boost productivity, profitability, and innovation.
  • Trade Commissioner Service & EDC Exporting Guide – Access expert guidance and resources to navigate global trade opportunities.

Use these tools to build a strong foundation and scale your business effectively.

Access These Resources Today

March Business After Five – Connect & Network!

Join us at the Lochiel Kiwanis Community Centre for March’s Business After Five networking event! Discover this fantastic venue for events and meetings while mingling with local professionals in a relaxed, engaging atmosphere.

Why Attend?
✅ Expand your network & meet new business contacts
✅ Enjoy great conversations & a welcoming environment
✅ Bring your colleagues & business cards for a chance to win prizes

Want to showcase your business? Become an exclusive vendor exhibitor for just $75! Contact rcooke@slchamber.ca

Register Today

    Chelsea Cooper                                              Tiffany Majovsky

Celebrate International Women’s Month with Us!

Join us at the Four Points by Sheraton for a special event honoring the achievements of women, proudly sponsored by Super Tent Sarnia.

🌟 Event Highlights:
Dress for Success Fashion Show – Presented by Garbo's Fashions. Delicious Lunch – Enjoy great food while connecting with fellow attendees.
Inspiring Panel Discussion – Hear from exceptional women in Lambton as they share insights in a thought-provoking conversation, moderated by Sarah Woodley of The Fox FM.

Together, let’s #AccelerateAction and drive meaningful change! Reserve your spot today!

Register TodayCongratulations and Welcome to Our Newest Chamber Members

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Join Planet Fitness TODAY for their Member Appreciation & Open House Event from 3:30 - 6:30PM.  Let's celebrate our members, team members and our community with bagels, wraps, refreshments, a FREE raffle, and FREE Planet Fitness giveaways to the first 100 guests!

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With a strong foundation of classroom knowledge and hands-on experience, our post-graduates are equipped for today’s evolving workforce.

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Join the people who get things done. We are the hub for business communication and collaboration. Your membership provides you with a connection to local businesses, events, seminars, and member exclusive deals. We invite you to enjoy all that we have to offer.