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WHAT'S NEW
LOCAL ECONOMY MAINTAINS STEADY GROWTH
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Every year, we gather data to understand the current status of Orangeville’s business community. In 2024, we saw continued resiliency in our local economy despite ongoing economic pressures such as rising costs, labour challenges, and tariff risks.
The number of businesses operating in Orangeville grew by 240, an 8% increase over 2023. Entrepreneurial ventures represented 94% of the growth with notable increases in the professional services, transportation, real estate, and construction sectors. Total employment grew by 1%, comparable to both Dufferin County and Ontario, and concentrated in the local healthcare, education, professional services, and manufacturing sectors. All of these details and more are now available in the 2024 annual report.
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WORKSHOPS AND EVENTS
SHOWCASE YOUR BUSINESS TO JOB SEEKERS
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Save the date for the Orangeville and Area Job Fair. Employers in Dufferin County are invited to promote current job openings, connect with local job seekers, and showcase their business to the community. Past events have attracted up to 600 people and included up to 30 local employers from a variety of sectors. Register today for this popular event!
- Thursday, October 2 | 3 – 7 p.m.
- $100 booth registration (incl. table & chairs)
- Orangeville Best Western Plus Inn and Suites
| | | GROW YOUR BUSINESS WITH STARTER COMPANY | | |
Starter Company Plus is a valuable program that supports entrepreneurs looking to start, grow, or buy a small business. It is ideal for enterprising people over 18 years of age. Selected participants will attend 10 bi-weekly training sessions and will receive:
- assistance with the development of a business plan
- ongoing support from a qualified business advisor and local mentors.
- the chance to apply for a grant up to $5,000 upon completion of a business plan
The next program will start in October and applications are now open.
| | | HOW TO START A SMALL BUSINESS | | |
Ideal for all emerging entrepreneurs, this session will cover the requirements and considerations of starting a small business in Ontario. Mark Jamieson, Co-ordinator of the Orangeville and Area Small Business Enterprise Centre, will discuss the key elements of a business plan and why this essential document is so important when starting or growing a business. This workshop will also answer many start-up questions and provide participants with the tools needed to begin building their own businesses.
- Thursday, September 18 | 5 - 7 p.m.
- 200 Lakeview Court (upper level), Orangeville
- FREE to register
| | | More local events and learning opportunities | | |
BUSINESS FEATURE
CELEBRATING 45 YEARS AT DATA CABLE
| | Data Cable is a custom cable assembly and wire harness manufacturer located in Orangeville, Ontario. Celebrating 45 years of business last month, they have grown their customer base to service hundreds of clients across multiple sectors, including defense, medical, robotics, transportation, and more. The company is investing in their staff’s skill development by cross-training them with their veteran employees to transfer crucial knowledge, and by investing in automation to improve operational efficiency. While remaining committed to the highest standards of quality, they are broadening their reach into the U.S. market and the aerospace industry. | | | |
ACCESS FUNDING, PROGRAMS, AND RESOURCES | | |
Get funding for ice storm expenses
The Business Ice Storm Assistance (BISA) program provides one-time financial support to small businesses, small farms, and not-for profit organizations for eligible costs related to the March 2025 ice storm. To determine eligibility under the program, potential applicants should carefully review the program information, including guidelines and application form on the Business Ice Storm Assistance website.
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Receive tariff support
The Ontario Together Trade Fund (OTTF) provides financial support to help businesses serve more interprovincial customers, develop new markets, and re-shore critical supply chains in the face of U.S. tariffs. With a focus on helping small and medium enterprises (SMEs), the program aims to build local capacity, enhance trade resiliency, and make necessary investments to expand into new markets.
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Invite our visitors to explore Orangeville
Orangeville has been long known as a day-trip destination and is evolving into a sought-after overnight getaway. Local businesses can help make it easier for visitors to explore our charming town by sharing the different ways to access visitor information:
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In-person services at the Orangeville Public Library's Mill Street and Alder branches are now available seven days a week during standard library hours.
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Interactive kiosks at the above locations feature the LoveOrangeville.ca website and online tools.
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Self-service stations at Town Hall and Alder Recreation Centres have brochures and QR codes linking to online resources.
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LoveOrangeville.ca has several online tools:
- Digital guide with 160+ points of interest and 7 self-guided walking tours
- Tourism directory with over 200 local businesses
- Event calendar searchable by date, interest, and location
Local businesses are also invited to distribute physical copies of visitor information to customers. Simply contact us with the number you need!
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Apply to be a holiday vendor
Downtown Orangeville is now accepting applications for the Joy and Lights Holiday Gift Market in November. Artisans with handcrafted goods, delectable holiday treats, and unique gifts are invited to be part of a magical shopping experience.
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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.
Is your tourism business on social media? Don’t forget to tag @OrangevilleTourism for a chance to be featured on Love Orangeville’s Instagram or Facebook accounts.
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BUSINESS UPDATES
CELEBRATE BUSINESS MILESTONES
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Plan your event with Culture Days
Culture Days is a national celebration of arts and culture inviting millions of people to attend thousands of free participatory events across the country, both in-person and online. Culture Days offers free resources to support events and community organizers in the successful planning, promotion, and evaluation of their Culture Days events.
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