Economic Development and Tourism eNews
Happy Holidays
As we wind down the year, we reflect on this year's successes. Our team made considerable strides toward our goal to 'grow our economy.'

We look forward to furthering our progress to increase employment and investment, improve transportation and broadband connectivity, and promote our lakeside Town in 2020.

"Georgina has a special place in my heart. Our community's spirit inspires me every time I'm out meeting residents and business owners. Their dedication to each other and our Town drives our team to do our very best to reach out and support our business community," Karyn Stone, Economic Development and Tourism Manager.

We sincerely wish you and yours a wonderful holiday and a successful 2020.
Supported existing business and targeted new investment through increased program and support awareness, and by securing $30,000 in funding for Business Improvement Areas to access training to improve their online presence.
Enhanced and diversified the tourism industry through support of the Chamber of Commerce's Ambassador Program. Also, by working with tourism stakeholders to develop a two-year Community Tourism Plan.
Boosted investment readiness by implementing the Business Class Program to streamline the planning and development process, and by supporting the Connect to Innovate Program that will provide installation of broadband infrastructure for potential service providers to improve internet.
Leveraged economic impact of agriculture, food and agri-tourism by hosting the second annual Field to Table event and support of the Georgina Farmers' Market and agri-tourism operators.
Looking to host an event in 2020?
The Economic Culture and Community Betterment Program grants could help cover your costs
In 2019, the Economic Development and Tourism Division supported 18 community events by providing $45,000 in grant funding.

The purpose of the Community Betterment Grant Program is to support festivals and events that serve to promote the Town to markets outside Georgina, generate economic opportunities for the local business community and provide for the betterment of the community. You could receive up to 50 per cent of your total eligible expenses, up to a maximum of $5,000.

  • Community Betterment Grant: This grant provides funding for efforts being taken to build a community or neighbourhood. 
  • Community Culture Grant: This grant provides funds towards the events/programs or public art installations intended to celebrate the culture of Georgina.
  • Economic Development Grant: This grant provides assistance to organizations who are able to demonstrate that their program/event will have a direct economic impact on the surrounding business community. 

Applications are reviewed by the Economic Development Committee four times annually and must be submitted 120 days prior to the event date.

The next review date is Feb. 3, 2020.
The Town is looking for your input to help create a vision statement and guiding principles for the Keswick Secondary Plan. Tell us what words or phrases best describe the long-term vision for Keswick by taking our survey. The survey runs until January 8, 2020. Your input is greatly appreciated and will help shape the future of this growing community.
Did you know?
There are approximately 238 businesses in Georgina's designated downtown Business Improvement Areas.
Welcome to Georgina
It's been a busy week welcoming new businesses to Georgina. The products and services they offer further diversify our business community. Welcome to our wonderful community! We wish you a successful 2020 and beyond.
The owners of More to Love opened their second location this past weekend. They offer gently used plus-sized clothing for men and women (sizes 12-24). Shop local and check them out at 23721 Hwy 48 in Baldwin.
Alpha Dog Raw is an awesome addition to Keswick's historic downtown.  They sell 100% Canadian-sourced hormone and antibiotic-free raw pet food and treats.   Visit their website for more information.
Imagine Cinemas offers premium seating, a new popcorn machine, online seat selection and more. Visit imaginecinemas.com  for show times.
Economic News
Funding application deadline
If you're a business owner in one of Georgina's designated Business Improvement Areas and could benefit from increased digital presence, the deadline to apply for up to $2,500 in funding from Digital Mainstreet is Dec. 31. Learn more and apply today.
The Stephen Leacock Theatre welcomes national talent
Serena Ryder's performance at the Stephen Leacock Theatre will add her to a list of other significant national and international talent who have come to Georgina. Read York Durham Headwater's article.
Ontario Government cut small business tax rate by 8.7 per cent
On Dec. 18, Doug Ford highlighted the government's top accomplishments in 2019. Read the news release .
Featured properties
$3,269,000
Disclaimer: Listings are provided to the Town from brokers, real estate agents, and various real estate websites. The Town of Georgina assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of any information shown, and does not make any representation, warranties or guarantees of any kind in relation to the listings in this e-newsletter or the properties described therein. Please contact the real estate agent or other contact person identified on the listing to verify all information.
Upcoming events
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