Economic Development eNews | August 19, 2025 | | An Award-Winning Experience with a Side of Innovation | | |
Photos: top main, Kody and Chris White welcome you to Stoodley's with smiles. Above: known for their burgers, the Ricotta Royale is a favourite; Kody stands proudly by the new outdoor kitchen; a separate entrance conveniently offers take-out orders; the outdoor patio is home to Stoodley's Scoop Ice Cream.
LINKS
9 Water Street, Elgin
613-359-0909
Email | Menu
Facebook | Instagram
| | |
ELGIN – “It’s a labour of love for the whole family,” says Lead Cook Kody, one of four members of the White family that owns and operates Stoodley’s Kitchen & Beverage.
Reflecting on the renovations that were powered by family and friends, Kody describes the journey that began with take-out service opening in early spring 2024 to generate revenue while the rest of the business took shape. “We were surprised it got so busy so quickly,” Kody recalls. In-house dining started that fall.
Today, Stoodley’s is more than a restaurant, "it’s a welcoming hub where people can sit and unwind," says dad Robb. Whether being welcomed inside the cozy dining room by his daughter Jessie-Leigh and wife Chris, or by patio staff, you'll be warmed by the hospitality and the heaters that stretch the outdoor season well into spring and fall. “One of our goals was to establish the restaurant as a community mainstay offering a unique experience,” says Kody.
Their social media pages share menu specials and events like karaoke nights and live music. From Elgin Days to spontaneous celebrations, Stoodley’s is a come-as-you-are kind of place.
The food speaks for itself. Popular menu items include handhelds and flatbreads, the burgers are made from fresh ground chuck and the onions are slowly caramelized. Many of the fresh ingredients are sourced locally. “We take pride in every plate,” Kody explains.
Stoodley's offers pizzas with house-made sauce and dough. Paying homage to the grandparents, Nanny's Garden pizza and Papa's Chicken sandwich are two delicious and popular options. Classic beverages are offered as well as menu pairings with refreshing micro brews.
A brand-new outdoor kitchen is situated beside the patio space, and their 'Stoodley’s Scoop Shack' ice cream shop is now opened. “Staff are ecstatic to be scooping all summer long," says Kody.”
"Brother Kody manages the back-of-house with sister Jessie-Leigh managing the front-of-house," says Robb, adding, "[We] do whatever the kids need to make Stoodley's run smoothly." Kody admitted that, “mom and dad are the backbones of this operation. They step in wherever needed.”
The business name is attributed to Chris' family. Her mother Simone Stoodley's spirit, is woven into everything they do. "There will always be a piece of her in this place," the family shared.
Stoodley’s was first honoured with Rideau Lakes’ New Business of the Year award and subsequently Business of the Year award over the last two years. Robb attributes the success to his team. “We are fortunate to have 14 staff that contribute ideas for making improvements. They have become extended members of the Stoodley's family.”
| | Only 4 Weeks Remain to Nominate a Leader for the Thake Award | | |
Do you know someone who volunteers their time to strengthen your municipality’s economic prosperity?
The Leeds Grenville Economic Development Office invites individuals, municipal councils, and economic development committees to submit nominations for the annual Bill Thake Memorial Award for Economic Development Leadership.
The award winner will be announced prior to the Economic Development Summit and will be officially honoured at the event on November 21st.
Talk to your colleagues and community members about who is deserving of this award in your municipality. If you have someone in mind who is a resident within the 10-member municipalities of Leeds Grenville, consider putting their name forward.
Deadline for submissions is September 19 at 4 p.m.
Connect with us at econdev@uclg.on.ca or call Shelbi McFarlane at 613-342-3840 ext. 5361.
| | | Goldwyn's Restaurant New to Kemptville | A new dining destination has arrived in North Grenville with the opening of Goldwyn’s Restaurant. Located in Kemptville at 25 Clothier Street East, Goldwyn’s offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a menu focused on elevated comfort food made with fresh, local ingredients. Whether you're stopping in for brunch, lunch, or dinner, the restaurant promises a cozy experience with dishes that blend tradition and creativity. | | | Sunflower Bake Shop Sees Reno | A local favourite has had a makeover! Sunflower Bake Shop, a stop on the Fresh Baked Adventures tour, recently completed renovations to refresh its space while keeping its signature charm. The business is known for its homemade specialty breads, pies, sweet treats, cheeses and pantry items. Open 6-days per week - Tuesday to Sunday. | | | Leeds Grenville Children’s Services Survey | If you or your employees have children up to 12 years old, pregnant or planning to start a family, and will need childcare, we need your input. Please complete this quick survey to help in the planning and delivery of new licensed child care services needed across the region. | | | |
The next cohort of Starter Company Plus starts in October. This highly sought-after and exclusive program is designed to address critical business areas and empower small business owners for long-term success. Best of all, it’s completely free for participants.
The program offers a comprehensive suite of resources to help you confidently launch and grow your small business. You’ll receive step-by-step guidance in financial management, strategic planning, market research, and more. Through interactive workshops, one-on-one coaching, and access to a supportive network of like-minded entrepreneurs, you'll gain invaluable insights and build the skills needed to propel your business forward.
To receive a Starter Company Plus application you must first attend an entire information session on either September 4th or 9th via the Zoom platform. Here, you will learn the full eligibility criteria, and any other requirements so you can determine whether the program is right for you and your business at this time. At the end of the information session, you will be able to request the application. Email Brennan Eland for more information or call 613-342-3840 x 5363.
| | Entrepreneur of the Year Award Nominations Open | | Scott Waldron, 2024 Entrepreneur of the Year | | |
The Entrepreneur of the Year Award recognizes an outstanding business owner in Leeds Grenville who demonstrates exceptional drive, innovation, and leadership. This annual award celebrates an entrepreneur who operates a successful and growing business, and also contributes meaningfully to their community and broader local economy.
The recipient of this award is someone who exemplifies perseverance, integrity, and vision. Through their entrepreneurial efforts, they create employment opportunities, support local initiatives, invest in their own professional development, and inspire others through their actions and character. Individuals, organizations, business leaders, elected officials, counties and municipal staff are invited to put forth a nomination.
| | |
This award is presented at the annual Bridges to Better Business event to honour the hard work, resilience, and community-minded spirit of our local entrepreneurs. Email your completed nomination form to Carol Hardy, or call her for further information at 613-342-3840 ext. 5367.
Deadline: Friday, September 19th at 4 p.m.
| | Nominate a Deserving Immigrant Entrepreneur and Inclusive Employer | | |
Nominations are now open for two annual awards, the Leeds and Grenville Immigrant Entrepreneur Award and the Leeds and Grenville Inclusive Employer Award. Anyone can nominate, including self-nominations.
Simply submit the name of the business via email to Lauren or call/text 613-213-4455.
Deadline: Friday, September 12th
| | |
| Immigrant Entrepreneurship Award presented to Nicole Hudson of Katarina's Coffee Shop in Prescott | | Inclusive Employer Awards presented to Truespeed Internet Services and Sterling Home Renovations | | |
FedDev Regional Program Funding - New
FedDev Ontario is now accepting applications under the Southern Ontario regional program stream. Businesses and organizations can apply at any time; the program is offered on a first-come-first-served basis, there is no deadline.
For profit businesses
Supports funding for businesses in Southern Ontario:
- No-interest, repayable contributions from $125,000 up to $10 million to grow, innovate and diversify.
| | |
Eligible applicants are growing and established businesses, co-operatives and Indigenous (First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples) businesses located or expanding in southern Ontario that:
- are for-profit entities located and operating in southern Ontario at the time of your application
- have a minimum of 5 full-time employees and no more than 500 FTEs
- are incorporated and registered to do business in Canada or Ontario for at least the past 3 years
| | |
Supporting the following activities:
- Developing, commercializing, and/or producing new and innovative products, processes and services
- Improving productivity, capacity and competitiveness
- Scaling-up or expanding business lines to tap into new markets or reach new customers
| | |
Not-for-profit organizations
Supports funding for organizations that help businesses grow in southern Ontario:
- Non-repayable contributions from $125,000 up to $10 million for organizations to grow regional ecosystems, transform local economies, and foster inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
| |
Apply for the Tourism Partnership Fund
RTO 9’s Partnership Fund is designed to forge strong and diverse partnerships that either build on existing tourism products or introduce new ones. They work hand-in-hand with tourism partners to enhance experiential tourism across South Eastern Ontario.
This partnership program requires a 50% buy-in of eligible project costs from the applicant. The program opens on September 1st for applications with a deadline of September 21st. Connect with Meg Dabros at 613-983-5215 to discuss
application process, or book an appointment.
Access guidelines and register for a free info session on August 26th or September 11th, 10-11 a.m.
| | |
Retail Modernization Project Grant (RMPG)
The RMPG supports Ontario-based bricks and mortar retail businesses in adopting digital tools to improve operations and drive growth. Funded by the Province of Ontario through the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI), the grant helps cover the cost of technologies such as POS systems, online ordering platforms, CRMs.
Funding: Up to $5,000 (50% of eligible costs)
Eligibility:
- Incorporated, for-profit, Ontario-based with 1–50 employees
- Minimum $100,000 in annual revenue
- At least one year in operation and a physical storefront (e.g., retail, restaurants & food, hairstyling, florists, etc.)
Application Process: In order to submit an application, you must first connect with an OCI staff member. Complete the Client Intake Form and check the “digital solutions” box to begin the process.
To read complete program details, visit the OCI’s Drop Box Link.
| |
Two More OCI Digital Development Fund Opportunities
1. Planning: Digital Modernization and Adoption Plan (DMAP)
Funded by the Province of Ontario through the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI), the DMAP program helps Ontario SMEs develop a customized digital strategy in partnership with a qualified consultant. This strategy may include improvements in cybersecurity, productivity, customer service, and other key areas.
Funding: Up to $15,000 (50% of eligible costs)
Eligibility:
- For-profit, incorporated Ontario SMEs with 1–499 employees
- Must demonstrate a clear need for digital transformation
Application Process: In order to submit an application, you must first connect with an OCI staff member. Complete the Client Intake Form and check the “digital solutions” box to begin the process.
For more information, visit the OCI’s Drop Box Link.
2. Implementing the Tools: Technology Demonstration Program (TDP)
After completing a DMAP program above, eligible businesses can apply for the TDP to implement the digital tools identified in their plan—such as CRM systems, inventory software, or cybersecurity upgrades.
Funding: Up to $150,000 (50% of eligible costs)
Eligibility:
- Ontario SMEs with 1–499 employees
- Minimum $500,000 in annual revenue in one of the last three tax years
- Must use an Ontario-based, commercially available technology solution
| | * For more on funding, visit the Leeds Grenville Economic Development funding resources page. To receive advice on whether your business could qualify, email Shelbi McFarlane, Business Development Officer or call her at 613-342-3840 x 5361. | | | | |
Business owners, here is a great opportunity to own this property on the corner of Sharpe's Lane/Kelly Road and the Second Concession intersection in Elizabethtown-Kitley. With plenty of office space to work from, it's located just west of city amenities. Zoning C2-3 A2 allows for many different uses including retail. The building has 4000 sq. ft., and the land size is 238.5 x 521.13 ft. irreg. It has a drilled well, is partially air conditioned, and there are 3 bathrooms Offering onsite-living or as a potential investment property, it has a legal apartment on the 2nd level.
View map for 2872 Second Concession.
| | Workshops, Seminars and Webinar Library | | 'Foodpreneur Advantage' Program | | The Foodpreneur Advantage Program is a new small business resource for food enthusiasts. It's for individuals looking to start or expand a food or beverage manufacturing business producing consumer packaged goods (CPG). The program provides introductory expert-led training sessions and industry insights to help navigate getting started or expanding into new product lines. | | |
When:
Aug 21: Starting a Food Business & Regulatory Compliance
Aug 27: How to Sell your Food Product
Sept 4: Costing & Pricing to Make Profits
Sept 11: Marketing & Branding your Food Product
Sept 18: Food Safety Fundamentals for Start-Ups
Sept 25: Labelling & Packaging Your Food Product
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
| |
Selling Travel Services Webinar
This webinar is designed for potential entrants into the travel industry in Ontario. TICO's Compliance Department offers this informative session which provides an overview of legislated registration requirements including actions deemed as selling travel services in Ontario.
When: August 26, 11:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
| | |
Disclosure and Invoicing Compliance
Join TICO's Compliance Department for this interactive presentation on disclosure & invoicing. Understand the importance of providing proper disclosure at the time of booking. Invoicing requirements will be reviewed while discussing the benefits of this practice.
When: September 2, 11 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
| | | |
The Importance of Paid Advertising in a Digital Space
Learn key insights into Google Ads Facebook ads Facebook pixel and Instagram ads. See how to target audiences, learn which ads to run for your business, and about key terminology in ad platforms.
When: September 9, 10-11:30 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 September 2nd, 2025 edition should be received by August 25th.
- Submissions for the September 16th, 2025 edition should be received by September 8th.
| | |
SPECIAL MESSAGE:
-
The Leeds Grenville Economic Development business directory is in the public web domain. The Economic Development Office does not share or sell the directory to any resellers. Please be aware any email messages suggesting acquisition of the directory is not from the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville Economic Development Office.
| | | | |
