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Edition #2
September 2025
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Growing Together
CENTRE WELLINGTON QUARTERLY BUSINESS UPDATE
| | From summer milestones to future opportunities—here’s the latest in Centre Wellington’s economy! | | |
Welcome to the Centre Wellington Economic Development Newsletter!
As we welcome the fall season, it’s a great time to reflect on the exciting momentum we’ve seen across Centre Wellington over the summer and to look ahead to the opportunities ahead.
This past summer, our team was proud to attend a number of ribbon cuttings, celebrating with local business owners as they opened new doors and expanded their operations. These moments showcase the dedication, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit that continue to make Centre Wellington such a dynamic place to do business.
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We’re also thrilled to share news of the Province’s recent funding announcement, which will provide meaningful support to strengthen our local economy.
Of course, we recognize that broader economic pressures, including ongoing tariffs, create challenges for many businesses. But what we continue to see in Centre Wellington is a spirit of resilience and collaboration that sets our community apart.
Thank you for being such an important part of Centre Wellington’s business community. We’re excited to continue this journey with you as we head into a season full of possibility.
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Rural Ontario Development Program
The Rural Ontario Development (ROD) Program – Business Development Stream provides 35% cost-share funding, up to $10,000, to support projects that help rural businesses grow, attract investment, and create jobs.
Eligible businesses can apply for funding to overcome development barriers, strengthen operations, and position themselves for long-term success.
Apply early — funding is first-come, first-served!
Deadline: March 31, 2026
This program is designed to build strong businesses, boost local economic growth, protect jobs, and improve infrastructure in Ontario’s small communities.
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Canada-Ontario Job Grant – Funding for Employee Training
The Canada-Ontario Job Grant (COJG) provides non-repayable funding to help employers deliver high-quality employee training programs. This grant offsets the cost of hiring top training providers, enabling businesses to improve skills, boost productivity, and achieve lasting organizational benefits.
How Funding Works
The grant offers different contribution rates based on employer size and the type of trainees:
- Large Employers (100+ employees): Up to 50% of eligible training costs, to a maximum of $10,000 per trainee.
- Small Employers (<100 employees): Up to 83% of eligible training costs, to a maximum of $10,000 per trainee.
- Small Employers Hiring & Training Unemployed Individuals: Up to 100% of eligible training costs, to a maximum of $15,000 per trainee.
- All trainees in the project are eligible for this increased funding, not just new hires.
Why Apply
- Access funding to hire expert trainers.
- Strengthen employee skills and improve productivity.
- Support long-term growth and competitiveness in your organization.
Deadline
Applications are accepted year-round, so employers can apply whenever training needs arise.
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FedDev Ontario Funding: Helping Businesses Scale and Innovate
FedDev Ontario is offering no-interest, repayable contributions to help businesses in Southern Ontario scale, modernize, and innovate. Funding ranges from $125,000 to $10 million, covering up to 50% of eligible project costs. This support can be used to develop new products, expand operations, or adopt more efficient technologies. Projects typically span one to three years and must not begin before an application is submitted.
Eligible applicants include growing and established businesses, co-operatives, and Indigenous-owned businesses in Southern Ontario. To qualify, businesses must be for-profit, have between 5 and 500 full-time employees, and be incorporated and operating in Canada or Ontario for at least three years. All sources of matched funding must also be confirmed within 30 days of approval.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, offering flexibility for businesses ready to take their next step toward growth and innovation.
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Centre Wellington Set for Growth with $6.8M Provincial Investment
We are excited to share that the Ontario government is investing $6.8 million in water infrastructure in Centre Wellington through the Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund (HEWSF). Announced by MPP Joseph Racinsky, this investment will extend services to the South Fergus area, unlocking the potential for approximately 3,088 new homes.
For local businesses, this is great news. More homes mean more residents, more customers, and more opportunities. As housing growth supports economic activity, businesses in Centre Wellington can expect increased demand for goods and services, while the expansion of critical infrastructure also creates jobs and strengthens the local economy.
Mayor Watters emphasized the importance of this funding: “This investment will play a vital role in unlocking the potential for new homes in South Fergus—a key growth area and gateway into our town. It supports not only our housing goals but also our commitment to building complete, connected communities where businesses and residents can thrive together.
For businesses in Centre Wellington, the takeaway is clear: housing growth drives economic growth, creating a stronger, more vibrant local economy where residents and businesses thrive together.
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Business Park Land Now Available in Centre Wellington
The Township of Centre Wellington is offering approximately 45 acres of shovel-ready employment land in a new business park located in northeast Fergus, with convenient access to Highway 6. In addition, municipal business park lands are available at 101 Gregson Court and 970 Gartshore Street in Fergus.
These properties are fully serviced and zoned for employment use. The Township is now inviting interested parties to submit a Letter of Intent—the next step in acquiring a lot in the municipal business park.
The minimum purchase price is set at $450,000 per acre, as confirmed by Council.
To request the Letter of Intent template or to learn more, please contact Economic Development at economicdevelopment@centrewellington.ca or call 519-846-9691 x304.
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Upcoming Workshops & Training Sessions | |
Growing Your Workforce Conference
Facing workforce challenges? The Growing Your Workforce Conference 2025 hosted by the Workforce Planning Board of Waterloo Wellington Dufferin is packed with insights on apprentice recruitment, retention strategies, and more to help support employers in our area! Reserve your spot for the November 20th event today.
Learn more and apply at: growingyourworkforce.ca
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Business Impact Program
Hosted by Boundless Accelerator, the Business Impact Program is designed to drive greater impact for innovative entrepreneurs and startups that have moved beyond the idea stage and are ready to accelerate their business toward revenue and investment. This fully funded, two-year program offers hands-on, one-on-one mentorship and expert guidance, enabling founders to manage their business strategy and operations while developing a plan for long-term success.
Learn more and apply at: boundlessaccelerator.ca
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Labelling & Packaging your Food Product
Hosted by Business Centre Guelph- Wellington this free 60-minute online seminar, teaches you how to make your food product stand out while meeting regulatory requirements. Topics include choosing the right packaging, understanding labelling requirements, and avoiding common mistakes that can affect food safety or marketability.
Date: September 25, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM
Learn more and register at: guelphbusiness.com
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Numbers Made Easy: Bookkeeping 101 for Small Businesses
Hosted by the Business Centre Guelph-Wellington, this session is for small business owners looking to grow.
This free essential virtual workshop is designed to empower entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small business owners with the financial knowledge they need to succeed. Whether you're just starting out or looking to improve your current bookkeeping practices, this beginner-friendly session will help demystify the numbers behind your business.
When: October 24, 2025, 12:00 pm (online, free)
Register:www.guelphbusiness.com
| Business Support Partner Feature |
Workplace & Immigrant Network (WIN)
Launched in 2023, the Workplace & Immigrant Network (WIN) helps employers across Waterloo Region, Guelph, and Wellington County connect with skilled immigrant talent and strengthen their workforce strategies.
For Employers, WIN provides:
- Talent Connections – Access to a pool of qualified immigrant jobseekers.
- Inclusive Workplace Support – Audits and process reviews to improve recruitment and retention practices.
- Training & Workshops – Practical guidance on best practices for hiring and managing a diverse workforce.
- Networking Opportunities – Events that bring together employers and jobseekers.
- Referrals – Direct connections to specialized partner organizations when needed.
By working with WIN, businesses gain the tools and connections to build stronger, more inclusive teams while addressing labour market challenges.
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We were thrilled to attend the ribbon cutting and grand opening of The Fieldstone Barn, Elora’s newest event venue. Local entrepreneurs Tim and Melinda Croft have transformed their 17-acre farm into a stunning destination where elegance meets nature.
The property features breathtaking flower fields, lush gardens, and a beautifully restored 170-year-old stone barn, making it the perfect setting for weddings, celebrations, and memorable gatherings.
Congratulations to The Fieldstone Barn on this exciting new chapter! This venue is a great example of how local small businesses and agri-tourism contribute to Centre Wellington’s vibrant economy and community spirit.
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We were excited to attend the ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of Jenn Locke Mortgages at her new Fergus location on August 27th.
Jenn Locke is an award-winning, community-focused mortgage broker who is passionate about helping people become and remain homeowners while making equity work for them. As part of the largest brokerage in Canada, she offers solutions for every type of mortgage.
Congratulations to Jenn Locke Mortgages on this exciting new chapter! Her new location is another great addition to Centre Wellington’s growing business community.
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Let’s Highlight your Amazing Business
Do you own a business in Centre Wellington?
As we continue to highlight the importance of shopping local, we want to showcase the incredible range of businesses right here in Centre Wellington—from all industries and of all sizes.
Whether you're a storefront, service provider, home-based business, or something in between, we want to share your story with the community!
We’ll be featuring local business spotlights through our social media channels. If you'd like to be included, send us a short write-up and a few photos—or invite us to visit your location.
Contact: economicdevelopment@centrewellington.ca
Let’s show off the amazing businesses that make Centre Wellington such a great place to live, work, and shop!
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Explore Centre Wellington's Fall Flavours with the Fall Rural Romp Event
The Fall Rural Romp is a self-guided tour featuring farm visits, tours, kids’ activities, pumpkins, corn mazes, harvest foods, fall decorations, and more.
Explore farms, markets, nurseries, and local food and beverage businesses across Southern Wellington County, including Centre Wellington, Erin, Guelph/Eramosa, Puslinch, and the City of Guelph.
This is a great opportunity to meet local tastemakers, learn about agriculture, and support Centre Wellington businesses while discovering unique food destinations in our communities.
Date: Saturday, September 27
Time: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location: Southern Wellington County
Celebrate the season, support local, and enjoy a day of fall activities and experiences.
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Stay informed! Register to receive future editions of our newsletter
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George Borovilos
George is the Manager of Economic Development for Centre Wellington and brings many years of experience and a wealth of knowledge to the role.
A true concierge for local businesses—large and small—George is dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs, driving growth, and making Centre Wellington the place your business can call home.
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Caitlyn Turton
Caitlyn is the new Planning and Development Coordinator, bringing valuable experience in municipal economic development and business support.
She’s your go-to for all things CIP and is here to help connect your business with the resources and tools you need to succeed in Centre Wellington.
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