Economic Development eNews | June 25, 2024 | |
Shifting the Construction Business Foundation | |
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GANANOQUE - Raised on 88 acres near Limerick Forest, Theo Graham of Songwood Contracting Ltd. is a problem solver who asks “why not” when few do. “I was taught to be inquisitive and open-minded,” he says, attributing this to his early exposure to innovative thinkers like his parents, as well as experts Steven Covey and John Maxwell.
Theo applied these lessons in his jobs, working in hospitality, engineering and for a concrete forming company, his last one working for someone else. “You learn solid ethics through these experiences; good business etiquette comes from that,” he shared.
Renovating his first home in Kingston started this entrepreneur's wheels turning. Waiting on trades professionals to fulfill responsibilities wore on his patience. He felt disrespected, and knew others felt the same. Acting on the opportunity, Theo reached out to Leeds Grenville Small Business and successfully completed the Starter Company Plus program. With the assistance of his father Tom, Principal of TD Graham and Associates, he created a unique brand that values its resources, team and the family farm in Bishops Mills.
He learned what the construction industry needed and applied his problem-solving skills, creating the foundation for his full service home contracting business. Songwood began to deliver customizable solutions in residential construction, upgrades, installation, repairs and finishing services. Theo persisted by taking on small jobs, which grew into
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larger projects thanks to word-of-mouth referrals.
By year two, all resources were tied up in one project. Investigating how to improve small business operations, “I learned about cost-plus pricing,” Theo says, grinning. “Rather than quoting on a project and hoping expenses stay controlled, the cost-plus model applies a flat percentage fee on top of expenses,” he added. Receipts and invoices for expenses are given to the client who pays on a fixed schedule, providing transparency on project status, thus making quoting projects an antiquated process.
To help with growing pains, Theo and the team work with a business coach to solve complex problems and meet goals. Songwood sees tangible results in how a healthy work-life balance boosts performance. “It’s helped us better gel as a team and prioritize today’s tasks for future growth,” he said. For example, to support workforce retention, the company supplies daily lunches from local vendor for all 21 team members and delivers to each one.
Their investment in people and technology has reaped rewards. Apps that assist with project management, job cost tracking, and marketing, as well as automations like personality assessments for career seekers and filters for incoming web forms, are used. Songwood Contracting represents a refreshing way to do business in the construction industry. “We’re people-minded and data-driven,” Theo says. “It’s not just the way of the future; it’s the most responsible way forward now.”
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Main photo above: Theo Graham (rear, far right) and his dedicated Songwood Contracting Team.
Below: Skilled members of the Songwood Team;
Bottom: Project situated on the St. Lawrence River with revitalized homestead to the right and new bunkhouse awaiting window installation on the left.
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Brown's Bay Celebrates Grand Reopening, First Park to be Revitalized
MALLORYTOWN - Brown's Bay Beach and Picnic Area are now open to the public. On Friday, June 14th, the long-time, family-friendly facility was presented to the public with a ribbon cutting ceremony.
The St. Lawrence Parks Commission shared this is a key investment in Brown’s Bay infrastructure and future sustainability. "The completed project brings a new bayfront building to Brown’s Bay Beach and Picnic Area, with accessible, gender-neutral washrooms and change rooms, an area for food and beverage service, a new perched beach area and a new and improved septic system. Additionally, it includes a water fountain and water bottle refill station, as well as a new seating and picnic area with a shade sail near the playground. Outdoor showers are provided on both the east and west sides of the building, near the entrances."
"Funded through significant investment by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport (MTCS) Capital Repair and Rehabilitation (R&R) program, and bolstered by the St. Lawrence Parks Commission (SLPC)’s Internally Restricted Reserve, this investment will help encourage and reinvigorate tourism in Eastern Ontario. Brown’s Bay is the first SLPC beach to undergo revitalization, as part of planned upgrades to all parks, fulfilling strategic objectives set out in SLPC’s strategic plan, Strengthening our Foundation for a Sustainable Future (2021-2026)."
Brown's Bay Beach Info
1259 1000 Islands Parkway, Mallorytown, Ontario
613-543- 3254
Open daily 9 a.m. - sunset
Sept 1-22 weekdays 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.; weekends 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Sept 23 closed for the season
Guest speakers pictured here cutting the ribbon included Steve Clark, M.P.P. for Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes; the Honourable Bob Runciman, Chair of the St. Lawrence Parks Commission, former Ontario Senator and former M.P.P.; Hollee Kew, General Manager and CEO of St. Lawrence Parks Commission; Roger Haley, Mayor of the Township of Front of Yonge. Photo credit: St. Lawrence Parks Commission.
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Starting, Growing or Exiting a Business? Small Business Helps. | |
Thinking of starting or growing a business? If you are self-driven, determined to succeed, are coachable and have a solid business idea, connect with our professionals. We can help you identify marketplace opportunities, write an effective business plan, assist with government regulations, licensing information and source finances. Book your free 45 minute session, consults are flexible and offered at both Smiths Falls and Brockville office locations and throughout the region at partner locations. | |
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Economic Development Leadership Award | |
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Nominate a Leader in Your Community
The Leeds Grenville Economic Development Office is asking individuals, municipal councils and economic development committees to nominate candidates for the annual Bill Thake Memorial Award for Economic Development Leadership.
The award winner will be announced prior to the Economic Development Summit on November 22nd and will be officially honoured at the event. All other nominees will be recognized at a local municipal presentation by the Warden.
If you have someone in mind within the 10-member municipalities of Leeds Grenville, consider putting their name forward. You can connect with us at econdev@uclg.on.ca or call Shelbi McFarlane at 613-342-3840, ext. 5361. For more information visit our Summit 2024 webpage.
Deadline for nominations is Friday, September 20, at 4 p.m.
Access the Nomination Forms here.
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Ken Watson, 2021 Thake Award recipient | |
Marking 10 Years of Recognition with a New Award for Employers | |
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The Leeds Grenville Immigrant Entrepreneurship Award is open for nominations. This year, the Immigration Partnership has developed a new way to give recognition to employers with the Inclusive Employer Award.
*NEW!
The Inclusive Employer Award
eligibility includes employers who:
- Own a business in Leeds Grenville
- Demonstrates commitment to creating welcoming workplaces and communities for immigrants
- Has less than 100 employees
The Immigrant Entrepreneur Award
eligibility includes entrepreneurs who:
- Have been born outside of Canada
- Own/operate an active business in Leeds Grenville
- Live in Leeds Grenville
- Demonstrate characteristics of a successful entrepreneur
Nominations close on September 13, 2024
To nominate for either award, submit the business name and owner (where possible) to Lauren Smith, Project Coordinator, Immigration Partnership by:
Phone/Text: 613-213-4455
Instagram
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Above: Harsh and Kanisha Patel of Parkedale Pharmacy in Brockville | |
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Rowland Leather Celebrates 50th Year
One of the longest standing artisans in the region is setting the stage for a celebration. Rowland Leather is marking their 50th year in business. After decades designing and handcrafting leather handbags in the heritage location of Merrickville, a celebration is truly in order and you are invited! Join Michael Rowland at this special event, July 13 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 159 St. Lawrence St. The day will be filled with stories, nostalgia and special giveaways. See more details on Facebook and Instagram, or in store.
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Canadian Digital Adoption Program
The Government of Canada in partnership with Digital Main Street delivers the Grow Your Business Online grant for small business. Eligible businesses will receive a micro-grant of up to $2,400 to help with the costs relative to adopting e-commerce and supported by a network of e-commerce advisors.
Once your eligibility has been confirmed, you will be introduced to an e-commerce advisor who can help with your e-commerce strategy. Join local entrepreneurs who have boosted their sales through digital adoption via this program.
For more information visit the program website.
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Workshops, Seminars and Webinar Library | |
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RTO9 Partnership Fund Information Sessions
The Partnership Fund is designed to forge strong and diverse partnerships that either build on existing tourism products or introduce new tourism products. These projects serve to enhance the region’s diversity of offerings to create a competitive advantage in tourism experiences throughout South Eastern Ontario.
In this webinar, review the Partnership Fund application process. Determine whether your project or organization is eligible. Learn what expenses can be incurred under the project. Q&A.
Applications for the fund open July 5th and close on July 28. Attend one of the five sessions available.
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Host: Regional Tourism Organization 9
Presenter: Meg Dabros
When: June 28, July 2, 4, 10, 16;
All sessions 10 - 11 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
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Create Videos Using Canva
Unlock the power of Canva for video creation, tailored specifically for business owners. Equip your business with the skills to produce captivating videos that effectively communicate your brand’s message, enhance your online presence and drive audience engagement.
Host: Small Business Advisory Centre
Presenter: Jennifer Baker, JBC Consulting
When: July 11, 9 - 10 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
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Create Newsletters with Mailchimp
In this how-to, design eye-catching, brand aligned newsletter templates. Craft compelling content that resonates with your subscribers. Understand the importance of audience segmentation. Optimize your newsletters for maximum engagement.
Host: Small Business Advisory Centre
Presenter: Jennifer Baker, JBC Consulting
When: July 25, 9 - 10 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
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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 July 9th edition should be received by July 2nd.
- Submissions for the July 16th edition should be received by July 8th.
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United Counties of Leeds Grenville Economic Development Office | | | | |
