Written by
Robin Cooke
—
October 19, 2023
What's New This Week - October 19, 2023
Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, but they face unique challenges, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. Our latest Policy Matters identifies four significant challenges facing small businesses and how a shift in government policy will help businesses overcome them and stay ahead in today’s competitive global marketplace.
Investments and access to capital are key to growing and supporting small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with high-growth potential. This is especially true for entrepreneurs who have traditionally been under-represented in the venture capital space, including women and members of Indigenous, Black and 2SLGBTQI+ communities.
Last week the Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Small Business, announced an investment of up to $25 million in five venture capital fund managers as part of the inclusive growth stream of the renewed Venture Capital Catalyst Initiative (VCCI).
Micro Grants Now Available to Canadian SMEs.
Our member, UPS Canada, in partnership with the Innovators & Entrepreneurs Foundation (IEF), has launched a micro-grant program designed to provide a financial boost to Canadian small- and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) that are already operational, generating revenue, and that need a financial boost to improve their business operations.
The goal of the micro-grant program is to support founders belonging to equity-deserving and/or racialized communities across Canada overcome financial obstacles and achieve growth, sustainability, and success in their businesses.
Applications are being accepted until 11:59 p.m. PT on
November 12, 2023. All applications must be submitted through the IEF’s website portal.
The Sarnia Lambton Chamber of Commerce and the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) are looking for your insights on issues that matter to your businesses. How confident are you in Ontario’s economy and your organization’s outlook? What should governments prioritize to drive economic growth?
Your participation in our annual Business Confidence Survey is as important as ever. The results of the survey will inform the 2024 Ontario Economic Report: the landmark research platform of the OCC, offering a unique perspective on the experience of businesses of all sizes across the province.
Closing date: Friday, November 10, 2023 at midnight
Take the survey and let the government know what is important to you!
This survey is being conducted by Golfdale Consulting, an independent consulting firm.
All responses will be kept strictly anonymous and confidential.
The Chamber's Women In Business is a group of exceptional people, and we welcome entrepreneurs, employees and business owners, and future Chamber Members to our events.
Our 2023 series is sponsored by our fantastic community partners Imperial Sarnia Site, and our October speaker will be Alisha Buchanan, owner of Treat Yourself Wellness Centre.
Alisha will share her journey with us so register today and join this engaged group of people who support the personal and professional growth of women in Sarnia Lambton.
Join us at the St Clair Corp Centre for a delicious lunch catered by Chamber Member Dattolo's Baked Goods.
Registration will close October 19th.
Whether you're looking to enhance your professional skills, stay updated with the latest trends, or simply broaden your knowledge, these events are for you. Our speaker for the next lunch & Learn November 7th will be Erika Kongus and Cam Brown from the Wealth Management Team of Mainstreet Credit Union.
The Mainstreet Wealth team including the new First Home Savings Account, followed by a market/economic update by Fidelity Investments, Ogi Todorovic, MBA, CIM, District Vice President.
Join us for at the Sunbridge Hotel at 12pm with our 2023 Lunch & Learn Series Mainstreet Credit Union for this engaging Lunch & Learn.
The City of Sarnia Accessibility Awards recognize local businesses and individuals that excel at creating inclusive environments and awareness for people with disabilities. The awards are held by the Sarnia Accessibility Advisory Committee to recognize these contributions to an inclusive, barrier-free community as an example to others.
To Find Out More and Nominate SomeoneWelcome to our Newest Chamber Members!
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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.