Business News | January 2025

WHAT'S NEW

GET SUPPORT TO START YOUR SMALL BUSINESS

Applications are now open for the Starter Company Plus program. If you’re looking to start, expand, or purchase a small business, this program may offer the support you need to make it happen. During 10 bi-weekly sessions, selected participants will have access to:

Assistance with the development of a business plan
Free training, coaching, mentoring, and networking opportunities
Ongoing support from a qualified business advisor
An opportunity to apply for a grant of up to $5,000 upon successful completion of the program

Learn more about the program online and apply by March 28 to be considered for the next cohort of participants.

Apply by March 28

WORKSHOPS AND EVENTS

LAUNCH A WEBSITE WITH WORDPRESS

Learn how to launch and maintain a WordPress website at our workshop with Mitchell Coburn of Loftboy Creative. In this session, we’ll discuss the basics of domain names and website set up while learning how to customize your site with plugins and content. Receive tips on regular maintenance, mobile-friendly best practices, and how to avoid common pitfalls to ensure your website's ongoing success.

February 11, 2025 | 9 - 10:30 a.m.
200 Lakeview Court, Orangeville
Registration is FREE

Visit our website to explore all our events for 2025.

BUSINESS FEATURE

DISCOVER THIS SENSORY-FRIENDLY BUSINESS

After her son was diagnosed with autism in 2020, Tori Spiteri and her family began the search for sensory-friendly facilities. Discovering that options were limited, she wanted to create a safe space where children and youth could learn together. Her new business, Inclusive Perspectives, has become a haven for families to connect and share resources. All are welcome whether your child has autism or just needs a calming space to play and explore. Sensory sessions can be booked online, and sensory materials are available for purchase in-store and on their website.

Tori received a grant through the Starter Company Plus program, delivered by the Orangeville and Area Small Business and Enterprise Centre (SBEC). Through her participation in 10 bi-weekly sessions, she created an effective business plan, learned how to overcome obstacles, and built valuable relationships with other business owners. With the support of her peers, Tori has had the confidence to connect with other networks that will help her to expand Inclusive Perspectives. Tori’s encouragement to all small business owners is to take risks.

“I was very hesitant on starting this business and was worried that it wouldn’t do well. Since opening, I have received so much positive feedback and seen many children flourish. With the space being fully accessible, families can see their child’s full potential!”

Learn more about Inclusive Perspectives

ACCESS FUNDING, PROGRAMS, AND RESOURCES

Grow from concept to commerce

Concept to Commerce is a start-up program designed for new entrepreneurs who are looking to take an idea from a concept through to the launch of their venture. Hosted by the Orangeville and Area SBEC, entrepreneurs will participate in 10 bi-weekly sessions to receive group training and individual guidance. Visit our website to learn more participating in the next cohort starting in February.

Learn more

Encourage youth entrepreneurship

Through the Summer Company Program, entrepreneurs between the ages of 15 and 29 can receive coaching, training, and grants to help them launch and operate a business. If you know of a young person with a great business idea and looking for a new experience, encourage them to learn more about this summer program. Applications are now open through the Orangeville and Area SBEC.

Apply by May 16

FOR THE LOVE OF TOURISM

Start planning for patio season

It’s time to start planning for patio season! Business owners require a permit to open a boulevard café in the Town of Orangeville. There is no cost to apply for a boulevard café permit and applications are now open. Business owners are encouraged to submit applications well in advance to ensure approvals are received before patio season begins.

Apply for permit

Your business can play an important role in helping to develop our community as a tourism destination. We invite you to get involved and stay informed. Learn how online.

BUSINESS UPDATES

CELEBRATE BUSINESS MILESTONES

Congratulations to all local businesses celebrating recent milestones!

Once Loved Thrift Boutique | Grand Opening

Book Lore | 35 years in business

Did you know that the Town of Orangeville celebrates your business milestones with congratulatory certificates? Let us cheer you on at your Grand Opening or special occasion.

Celebrate a milestone

TIP OF THE MONTH

FIND CREATIVE RESOURCES IN CANVA

Canva is a free, online graphic design tool. With their Small Business Work Kit, you’ll have access to a variety of small business templates for brand building, promotion, and operational use. If creativity is not your strong suit, Canva can help to elevate your designs in a user-friendly way.

Start creating with Canva

PARTNER EVENTS

Local events and learning opportunities to inspire and connect you.

Unlock Your Business Potential: AI for Small Business

Tuesday, January 21 | 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Hosted by the Town of Shelburne

The Art of Data in the Era of AI

Thursday, January 23 | 1 - 2:30 p.m.

Hosted by Ontario Culture Days

2025 State of Business in Dufferin County

Tuesday, January 28 | 7:30 – 10 a.m.

Hosted by Dufferin Board of Trade

2025 CCT Tourism Symposium

Monday, February 10 | 8 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Hosted by Central Counties Tourism

Safeguard Your Business: Cyber Security in the Digital Age

Tuesday, February 18 | 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Hosted by the Town of Shelburne

2025 Shelburne, Dufferin and Area Job Fair

Thursday, April 24 | 11 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Hosted by the Town of Shelburne

CONNECT WITH US!

Meet the team

Location and hours

edo@orangeville.ca | 519-941-0440 x 2286 | www.orangevillebusiness.ca

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