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Local partners are working together to help Durham Region businesses respond to shifting trade and tariff pressures.

The Durham Economic Task Force has begun meeting regularly to assess the impacts on local businesses. Made up of Invest Durham, local municipal economic development teams, chambers of commerce and boards of trade, post-secondary institutions and Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, the group is working collaboratively to identify emerging challenges and help connect companies with relevant information, tools and support.

Businesses looking for guidance can visit InvestDurham.ca/TariffResponse, which features updates, resources, key contacts and information to help navigate changing markets.

Businesses and residents are also encouraged to support Durham's economy by choosing local services and products whenever possible, helping strengthen local supply chains and the communities they support. 

Join the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario on September 17 for a virtual session focused on workforce and sustainable best practices. 

The afternoon will include practical strategies on how to: 

• Attract more young adults to tourism careers through education partnerships.

• Respond to emerging workforce trends and talent pipeline challenges.

• Create sustainable festivals and events with lasting community impact.

• Build psychologically healthy workplaces that support employee well-being and retention. 

Come ready to learn, exchange ideas and connect with partners working to build a stronger, more resilient visitor economy. 

Rural businesses in Durham Region could be eligible for up to $10,000 through the Rural Ontario Development Program.

The Business Development Stream supports projects such as market development, cyber security, succession planning and accessibility improvements. Eligible businesses with one to 20 employees may receive funding for up to 35 per cent of project costs. Applications close October 1. 

Central Counties Tourism's Partnership Program is accepting applications for its Tourism Marketing Support Stream.

Eligible tourism businesses, organizations and event organizers in Durham Region, York Region and Headwaters can apply for up to $2,000 in matching funds to support paid marketing initiatives geared to growing visitation. Applications are reviewed monthly, and the stream remains open until available funding has been allocated.

Showcase Your Business Success

Applications are open for the Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO) Awards of Excellence. The awards recognize communities and professionals who are creating opportunities, attracting investment and talent, supporting business growth, building vibrant places and driving long-term prosperity across Ontario. 

Award categories include: 

• Business Attraction and Retention 

• Planning and Strategic Development 

• Workforce Development and Talent Attraction 

• Visitor Attraction and Tourism Product Development 

• Excellence in City Building 

• Excellence in Rural Economic Development 

Explore the nomination opportunities available and put your accomplishments in the spotlight. Entries must be received by October 16. 

The film and television industry is evolving rapidly, creating new opportunities for businesses, entrepreneurs and creators.

Join Film Durham and the Durham Region International Film Festival (DRIFF) on October 23 for Myth2Market: The Future of Movie Making Summit at the St. Francis Centre for Community, Arts and Culture in Ajax. The free, full-day event will explore emerging technologies, new business models, sustainable filmmaking practices, and strategies for expanding production and investment across Durham Region.

The forum includes presentations, panel discussions and technology demonstrations. YouTube Canada will also lead a hands-on workshop exploring new tools to help creators produce, distribute and monetize content. 

Applications for the next instalment of the Host in Whitby Grant Program are due October 1. The program offers up to $5,000 in funding for owner/operators, private event organizers, and not-for-profit organizations hosting events that benefit both their venue and the broader Whitby community. Learn more about the program.

A limited number of indoor vendor spots are still available for the Newcastle Harvest Festival on October 3. The event takes over downtown from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., providing a great opportunity to showcase products to residents and visitors. Review the application form.

Local businesses, artisans and makers interested in participating in Oshawa's Boo Bash are encouraged to apply now. Vendor applications will be closing soon for the Halloween-themed market and community event on October 17 from 1 to 10 p.m. Submit an application. 

Current News & Trends

The Province of Ontario has announced new cabinet changes, welcoming Zee Hamid as Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, and Brian Saunderson as Minister of Sport. Read the full Cabinet announcement.

Oshawa is hosting two major music events this month. The DREAMS! Music Awards take place September 18 at the Biltmore Theatre, followed by a weekend of live music and art experiences at the Convergence Music and Art Festival on September 19 and 20. 

Looking to better understand visitors and identify new opportunities? The Canadian Travel Insights Dashboard can help guide your tourism strategy with data-driven insights on preferred trip activities, accommodation preferences, future travel plans, travel barriers and motivators, and preferred travel times throughout the year.

The federal government has announced funding to support the Durham Meadoway project, a planned 30-kilometre pedestrian and cycling corridor connecting neighbourhoods from Pickering to Oshawa. Learn more about the federal grant. 

Work is underway to expand Durham College Oshawa GO station. Find out how the upgrades will support two-way, all-day service on the Lakeshore East line. 

New visitor research conducted during the FIFA World Cup™ in Toronto reveals 9 in 10 visitors are likely to return within the next two years. Join the Destination Ontario Insights Portal to learn more about the lasting impact of hosting major international events.

The City of Oshawa and the Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority have secured more than $1 million in provincial funding for Second Marsh. Discover how the money will support restoration efforts.

On October 3, Lynde Shores Conservation Area unveils the completion of its latest wetland project, complete with a new boardwalk and viewing platform. Be part of the opening celebration. 

A major motorsport event is returning to Durham Region. After a seven-year absence, the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series will race at Clarington's Canadian Tire Motorsport Park in September 2027. Find out more about the return. 

Uxbridge writer and poet, Hollay Ghadery has been named to the 2026 Giller Prize longlist. Ghadery was chosen for her novel, The Unravelling of Ou. View the full list of longlisted authors. 

Port Perry's appeal as a visitor destination was recently showcased by Narcity Canada, which recognized the community as one of Canada's prettiest small towns. Read the full story. 

Did you know season one of Hulu's "The Testaments" was filmed in Durham Region? Find out where Durham appeared on the show. 

Oshawa is making headlines with the Oshawa Art Association's annual fall art festival returning October 3 and 4. Discover the artists and artwork that will be featured. Oshawa Little Theatre has also unveiled its 2026-27 season lineup. Explore the productions planned for the year ahead at this long-running community theatre.

For unique trip ideas or to plan your perfect day, visit DurhamTourism.ca, or call 1-800-413-0017. If this information is required in an accessible format, contact Durham Tourism.