Celebrating Tourism Week April 20-24 | | Economic Development eNews | April 14, 2026 | | |
LEEDS and the THOUSAND ISLANDS - A newly opened hotel in Leeds Grenville is strengthening accommodations for corporate travellers and visitors exploring the region.
With modern design, convenient amenities, and a vibrant, comfortable atmosphere, Tru by Hilton, owned by Ranvir (Randy) Gill, celebrated its grand opening late last year. This marks the sixth Tru by Hilton property in Canada, and a significant addition to the region’s lodging options.
"We are strategically located along County Road 2, just a minute from Highway 401, with easy access for corporate travellers, regional sporting events, group tours, and visitors attending local attractions," explains Randy. Shorelines Casino Thousand Islands is located directly across the street. The hotel’s location makes it a convenient base for both short-term and extended business trips.
The 79 room property includes eight fully accessible guest rooms, designed to meet Ontario Building Code requirements in conjunction with Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) standards. All rooms are bright, minimal, and comfortable, with layouts that ensure ease of movement. Guests also enjoy hot breakfast daily, Wi-Fi, an indoor swimming pool with lift chair, and a fully equipped fitness centre, amenities that support both work productivity and relaxation after a busy day.
A major highlight for corporate groups and leisure travellers is the large main-level common area, offering flexible space for networking, small meetings, booths for quiet work, or casual gatherings. The area conveniently includes a microwave, quick meals and snacks, “and a licensed bar, unique here and not typically found at other newly opened hotels,” Randy shares. These features create a professional yet welcoming environment for travellers seeking convenience beyond the guest room.
Tru by Hilton also participates in the Hilton Honors loyalty program, where frequent guests enjoy perks such as room upgrades, premium Wi-Fi, and flexible check-in and check-out, benefits valued by business travellers seeking consistency across Hilton brand locations.
“The property employs approximately 25 staff from the surrounding region,” says Randy. Grace Bentley, a team member since day one, notes, “Randy is very kind, he understands the importance of staff having a balanced work life,” she says with a smile in her voice.
An engineer turned entrepreneur, Randy emphasizes community connections as a cornerstone of the hotel’s success. The hotel has collaborations with the nearby casino and is in the midst of developing partnerships with local boat tour operators to enhance guest experiences. “Building community relationships is pivotal to the success of our business,” he says.
With modern amenities, accessible and flexible spaces, and a convenient location, Tru by Hilton provides a fresh, stylish, and dependable lodging solution for business trips, group events, and leisure visits, whether staying for a short visit or longer-term stays.
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Photos: Top - Manager Melissa Bentley welcomes you into the spacious common area.
Above from top - a locally-inspired mural graces the open-concept main floor; Diamond Members collect points for upgrades and perks; select from several bright and airy room configurations; the onsite meeting space; Tru - a modern design.
| | Front of Yonge Businesses Recognized | | Photo: (l-r) Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes MPP Steve Clark, Business of the Year recipient Alison Whitlock of Flowerbuds Professional Gardening, Front of Yonge Mayor Roger Haley, New Business of the Year Spicy Riffs Hot Sauce owner Mike Piovesan, Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands-Rideau Lakes MP Michael Barrett. | | |
MALLORYTOWN–The achievements of entrepreneurs were celebrated at the Front of Yonge 5th Annual Business Awards, shining a spotlight on the growth, resilience, and dedication of the area’s small businesses with particular appreciation for family-run businesses.
The Business of the Year Award was presented to Flowerbuds Professional Gardening, owned by Alison Whitlock, a business that has served the Front of Yonge community for more than 30 years. Whitlock was recognized for her longstanding commitment to quality service, beautifying local properties, and contributing to the strong sense of pride found throughout the township.
New Business of the Year (Service Under 5 Years) was awarded to Spicy Riff’s Hot Sauce, owned by Mike Piovesan. The growing business has quickly gained recognition for its bold flavours and entrepreneurial spirit, reflecting the creativity found within Front of Yonge’s newest enterprises.
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This year saw an impressive level of participation, with eighteen nominees representing a wide range
of industries from automotive to healthcare, grooming services to contractors and pet accommodations to artisans. The strong response reflects a tight-knit, forward-thinking business community that continues to punch above its weight, demonstrating leadership, adaptability, and genuine collaboration.
The Township’s Business Awards was hosted by the Economic Development Committee. Keynote speaker Jackson Wyatt of CABN shared insights and experiences from his entrepreneurial journey, offering inspiration and practical ideas for businesses navigating growth and change.
The annual Business Awards Breakfast continues to be an important opportunity to recognize the entrepreneurs who help drive Front of Yonge’s economy forward. The event is a testament to the strength, innovation, and community spirit.
| | Find Local Business Support Services Faster! | | |
Businesses and entrepreneurs across Leeds Grenville now have a convenient way to access the resources they need to start, grow, and succeed. Find funding, staffing, networking, training and advisory services in one place.
The Business Support Services Map, is an online tool that brings together local programs, services, and supports into one centralized tool. This interactive map allows users to do a customized search based on their location. The map is part of the Counties’ ongoing efforts to improve access to business supports and service delivery for entrepreneurs, start-ups, and expanding companies.
Whether launching a new venture, hiring employees, or exploring funding, users can navigate the map to discover and connect with services. Explore the Business Support Services Map at: invest.leedsgrenville.com/maps.
| | | Economic Development Seeks Summer Student Admin Support | | |
Reporting directly to the Economic Development Manager and accountable to the Economic Development Administrator / Communications Support, the Office Administrative Assistant will provide general office administrative support to the Economic Development Office. The department is launching new digital platforms – websites, CRM system and eNewsletter. Where needed, the position will support the transition of these platforms and assist with any research, content development and data entry required.
The ideal candidate is organized with strong skills in Microsoft Office and online platforms, and meets the eligibility criteria established by the Canada Summer Jobs Program. A valid driver’s license, and access to a vehicle are required. This temporary full-time position is an exciting opportunity to support the Counties’ dynamic Economic Development team and gain valuable experience. For details on qualifications and position responsibilities, review the Office Administrative Assistant job description.
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Office Administrative Assistant, Summer Student/Graduate TFT
Competition: OFFIC001418
Application deadline is April 24 at 4 p.m.
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Brigadoon Marks 35th in North Grenville
Congratulations to Brigadoon Restaurant in Oxford Mills on celebrating 35 years of exceptional dining and hospitality. Since opening, the restaurant has welcomed generations of guests to its historic limestone setting, becoming a favourite destination for special occasions and celebrations. This milestone reflects the dedication of owners and staff, along with the continued support of loyal patrons. Wishing Brigadoon continued success in the years ahead!
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The Village Bean Coffee House Turns 15
Merrickville's meeting place in the morning, The Village Bean Coffee House, has introduced something new for their 15th year milestone: a special Anniversary Blend coffee. Owner Robyn Fredrickson shares that what began as a bold idea has grown into a valued community gathering place thanks to the dedication of staff and the continued support of loyal customers. Here's to wishing The Village Bean Coffee House many more years of connection, conversation, and great coffee.
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Successes Celebrated at Starter Company Plus Graduation
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Entrepreneurs across Leeds Grenville are celebrating an important milestone as they graduate from the Starter Company Plus program, an initiative that helps small businesses launch, strengthen and grow their operations.
Graduates from the most recent cohort, along with mentors, community supporters, and local dignitaries, gathered at Prescott Town Hall on Thursday, April 9, 2026, to celebrate their achievements. This year’s cohort represents a variety of sectors, including service-based businesses, trades, and creative industries, with participants located throughout Leeds Grenville.
Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes MPP Steve Clark shared news that the Ontario Government will be supporting Small Business programs across the province by adding 9.4 million dollars over the next 3 years, ensuring a continuation of support for burgeoning entrepreneurs.
Over the past several months, participants completed training in essential business fundamentals, including business planning, marketing, and financial management. Through the
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program, graduates were also eligible to receive up to $5,000 in grant funding to support start-up or expansion costs.
This program combines group learning sessions with guidance from business advisors, along with mentorship opportunities from experienced local professionals. These supports help entrepreneurs build confidence and resiliency as they establish and grow their businesses within the region.
The graduation event highlighted the continued growth of small businesses across Leeds Grenville and recognizes the dedication of participants who are contributing to a strong and diverse local economy.
The Starter Company Plus program is funded by the Province of Ontario with additional support from the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville and the City of Brockville. The Small Business and Economic Development staff also provide ongoing support through free consultations, resources, events, and workshops, helping local entrepreneurs to connect, learn, grow, and strengthen their presence within the region’s business network.
| | Photo: Back row: Brockville Mayor Matt Wren, Augusta Mayor Jeff Shaver, Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes MPP Steve Clark, Leeds Grenville Small Business Officer Carol Hardy, Sarah Nestor of The Nest Wellness, Nick Weymouth of Weymouth Machine Works, Katie Malott of Epoch Acres, Kathleen Greenwood of Design Symphony, Alison Gibson of A 1000 Ways, Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands-Rideau Lakes MP Michael Barrett, Elizabethtown-Kitley Mayor Brant Burrow, Edwardsburgh Cardinal Mayor Tory Deschamps. Front row: North Grenville Mayor Nancy Peckford, Jennifer Slater of Hair She Goes, Abby McIntyre of Abby McIntyre Consulting, Bianca Timmerman of Queen Bee’s Cafe, Heather Savage of Creative Practice Art & Wellness Studio, Saria LaRocque of MerkaMa Rejuvenations, Patricia VanderLaan of Saltastic Salt Rooms & Wellness Spa, United Counties of Leeds and Grenville Warden Corinna Smith-Gatcke. Absent: Brian Healy of Accent Landscape Services Inc. | | Graduates listed alphabetically by Municipality: | | |
Township of Augusta
Jennifer Slater, Hair She Goes
City of Brockville
Bianca Timmerman, Queen Bee’s Cafe
Heather Savage, Creative Practice Art & Wellness Studio
Township of Edwardsburgh Cardinal
Abby McIntyre, Abby McIntyre Consulting
Katie Malott, Epoch Acres
Kathleen Greenwood, Design Symphony
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Township of Elizabethtown-Kitley
Nick Weymouth, Weymouth Machine Works
Brian Healy, Accent Landscape Services Inc.
Saria LaRocque, MerkaMa Rejuvenations
Township of Front of Yonge
Alison Gibson, A 1000 Ways
Municipality of North Grenville
Patricia VanderLaan, Saltastic Salt Rooms & Wellness Spa
Sarah Nestor, The Nest Wellness
| | The Starter Company Plus program invites applications annually for those who are launching, in their early stages of operation, or are looking to expand their business. The Counties’ Small Business and Economic Development staff continue to offer free consultations, resources, events, and workshops, assisting local entrepreneurs to continue to learn, grow and foster their presence within the region’s business network. | | Students, Launch Your Summer Start-up, Spots are Limited! | | | | |
Turn your great idea into a real business this summer through Summer Company. Participating students from ages 15–29 may receive up to $3,000 to help with start-up costs, along with hands-on business training and mentorship.
Gain practical experience in sales, marketing, financial management, invoicing, bookkeeping, customer service, and customer relationship development, while building confidence, creativity, and an entrepreneurial mindset. Support and guidance are provided every step of the way. Select your service area below and connect for more information, or apply today!
Spots are limited and applications are now OPEN!
| Call Carol Hardy at 613-342-3840 ext. 5367 or email carol.hardy@uclg.on.ca. | | Farm Credit Canada AgriSpirit Fund | | |
Do you have a capital project that will enrich lives in your rural community? The FCC AgriSpirit Fund supports projects in communities of less than 50,000 people. Eligible applicants can apply for $10,000 to $25,000.
Who can apply?
Charities registered with the Canada Revenue Agency
Non-profit organizations who partner with a municipal body, territorial or provincial government
- Non-profit organizations who partner with First Nations, Inuit or Métis governments/communities; the municipal body or government/community must agree to receive contributed money.
- Town, city, rural municipality, or First Nations, Inuit or Métis government/community <50,000 people
- Applicants that have not received support through the FCC AgriSpirit Fund in the past five years
Eligible projects
- Recognize FCC’s contribution
- Must be completed within two years of receiving funding with documented proof
- Are capital projects that enrich the lives of community residents in communities of <50,000 people
- Successfully pass FCC’s background check. View past projects.
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Examples of what can be considered
Construction of or upgrades to community buildings
Initiatives that support agriculture and food
Projects that reduce your environmental footprint
Projects that improve accessibility and inclusion
Projects to support food recovery or reduction of food waste
| Accepting applications from April 15 - May 15 | | | | |
Step into ownership of Recess Cafe, a successful, turn-key breakfast and lunch spot in Portland-on-the-Rideau with excellent highway exposure. Celebrating five strong years, this well-loved café features loyal year-round clientele, high-end commercial equipment, indoor and outdoor seating, and ample parking. With expansion potential ahead of the busy summer season, this is an ideal opportunity for entrepreneurs seeking a thriving business and lifestyle change. Unit size is 34.6 x 40 ft.
View map for 2761-103 Highway 15 South
| | Workshops, Seminars and Webinar Library | | |
Foodpreneur Advantage
Take part in the Foodpreneur Advantage program, designed to support food sector businesses at any stage.
The Start-Up Seminars are a series of 6 workshops for starting or refining a food business, offered 4 times per year. Learn basic regulations, pricing, branding, packaging, labelling, and how to sell to retailers.
April
16: Starting a Food Business & Regulatory Compliance
23: How to Sell Your Food Product
30: Costing & Pricing to Make Profits
May
14: Marketing & Branding
21: Food Safety Fundamentals
28: Packaging & Labelling
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
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Google Ads:
The Business Owner’s Starter Guide
For those who are curious about Google Advertising and its potential for your business. By the end of the session, you will have a solid understanding of how Google Ads are priced, how to set a realistic budget, and how to identify your return on investment and analyze the data.
Learn:
• Why Google Ads are powerful
• To identify the right key words based on your budget
• How to set the ‘right’ budget; both realistic and efficient
Date: April 20
Time: 9:30-10:45 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
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AI at Work: Creating Practical Team Policies
Walk through how small businesses can create a simple, practical AI policy. The goal is not to restrict innovation but to give teams clarity about where AI is helpful, where human judgment is essential, and how to use these tools responsibly.
Learn:
• Why every business should have a basic AI policy
• Common risks for small businesses
• Where AI can safely support marketing, planning, and internal work
• Essential human oversight
• What an AI policy should include
• A practical framework you can adapt for your own business or team
Date: April 23
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
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Sustainable Business Summit
Rural businesses play a critical role in shaping a competitive, strong local economy. This half-day summit brings together entrepreneurs, business leaders, and public-sector partners to share real examples, practical approaches, and local supports that help businesses adapt, reduce costs, and stay competitive as the economy evolves.
The event is designed for businesses of all sizes and sectors. Participants will hear what’s working locally, learn about available tools and supports, and leave with clear ideas they can apply in their own operations. A continental breakfast and light lunch will be provided. Hosted by Community Futures Grenville and the North Grenville Mayor's Taskforce for Clean Technology.
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Date: April 24
Time: 8 a.m.-12 p.m.
Where: North Grenville
Municipal Centre,
285 County Road 44, Kemptville
Cost: $25
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Record Keeping Made Easy
Having a structured approach to record keeping becomes essential. This 90-minute webinar will guide you through key components of maintaining accurate and organized business records in alignment with Canadian requirements.
Understand how to maintain accurate, compliant, and organized financial records.
Learn:
• Good record keeping
• CRA requirements and timelines
• Cash vs. accrual accounting
• Set up a record-keeping system
• What documents to keep
• Recording income and tracking revenue
• Allowable vs. non-allowable expenses
• Common expenses
• Key deadliness
• Tools and softwares
• Tips to stay organized
Date: April 27
Time: 9:30-11 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
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Market Research Strategies for Entrepreneurs
Get a clear understanding of how to conduct practical, focused, and actionable market research. Learn about tools and techniques to immediately apply to better understand your audience and make more confident business decisions.
Learn:
• What and why to use market research
• Primary vs. secondary research
• Identify your target market and customer segments
• Understand customer needs, pain points, and behaviours
• Analyze competitors positioning
• Trends and market demand
• Methods for collecting data
Date: May 11
Time: 9:30-11 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
| | United Counties of Leeds Grenville Economic Development Office | | |
Leeds Grenville eNews deadlines for submitting information:
If you have an upcoming workshop, seminar, or business-related event, please email it to us in advance.
- Submissions for the April 28 edition should be received by April 20.
- Submissions for the May 12 edition should be received by May 4.
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SPECIAL MESSAGE:
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The Leeds Grenville Economic Development business directory is in the public web domain. The Economic Development Office does not share or sell the directory or event information to any resellers. Please be aware any email messages suggesting acquisition is not from the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville Economic Development Office.
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