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Economic Development eNews | November 12, 2024

Business Profile

Barging In to Make Lasting Enhancements

Photos: top, Slate's Marine Construction family team of Tyler, Joanne and T.J.; left, top: new wall installation to deter erosion; barge delivering gravel and excavator; new boathouse interior; personal watercraft lift; Slate's of bygone working off of the barge.

LANSDOWNE - Slate’s Marine Construction was founded by family members from Rockport decades before current owners Tyler and Joanne Slate were born. “I grew up around the business,” Tyler says.


The early days of the company saw a variety of projects along the St. Lawrence River. With their first barge, they combed along the shorelines and amongst the 1,864 islands to help property owners meet project specifications and enhance the beauty of their places and spaces.


For the past 25 years, Tyler and Joanne have contributed significantly to the growth of the business. Their son TJ eventually joined the company, “I had seven years of experience in marine construction,” he said, stating his familiarity within the industry.


Slate’s specializes in a wide range of dock and waterfront construction services, offering high quality work to meet diverse client needs. They supply floating docks, build boathouses and permanent docks, install boat ports, ramps and lifts. Working year-round and in any water depth and size, they repair and replace existing docks. They also excavate, and install seawall, retaining, and sheet pile walls to deter erosion and high-water damage.


Their barge service allows them to deliver heavy loads to remote sites and islands. Slate’s Marine Construction provides waterfront maintenance services. "Providing high levels of service and receiving good word of mouth referrals is very important to us," says Joanne. Homeowner property services also include openings and closings, and seasonal cottage upkeep including lawn care and snow removal. All work encompasses the goal of enhancing the natural beauty of the waterfront.


In response to supply chain interruptions during the pandemic, they became an authorized dealer for On the Water Designs, an Ontario-based system manufacturer. “They’re a one-stop shop for dealers like us, we haven’t looked back,” says TJ. They ensure that dock solutions match the specific requirements and budget constraints.


Climate change has posed local challenges. The Slates offer adaptive solutions to these shifts, from flooding to managing low water levels. Tyler references the new 2024 Ontario Building Code, “It’s confused some people, but by working together with municipalities,” they clearly meet and exceed the standards.


Recently, the business moved into a new office and retail space on Reynolds Road north of the 1000 Islands Parkway. “We love it here, we now have a store,” said Joanne. “Our intention was to only offer dock accessories and leisure watercraft, but now we stock more,” she chimed. Visitors ask for snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. Joanne quickly adapted, and now they’ve increased year round revenue by adding local artisan products and hosting events.


With a legacy of customer satisfaction, the business is optimistic about new growth opportunities. Tyler turns his attention to lake country. Be on the watch for Slate’s to barge into a lakefront property near you. “We are more visible to everyone here and that's a good thing,” he added with a grin.

LINKS

613-802-3676

16 Reynolds Road, Unit 4, Lansdowne, ON

Email | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Economic Development Summit

Industry Leaders Amping Up for Summit Presentations

The 16th Annual Leeds Grenville Economic Development Summit Advanced Agenda is now available. It is anticipated that the event will sell-out with less than 25 tickets remaining.


Joining the previously announced speakers, Ontario’s Minister of Energy and Electrification, the Honourable Stephen Lecce and Pierre Cléroux, Vice President, Research and Chief Economist, BDC, will be an electric lineup of top presenters.


The Maitland Chemistry Park in Augusta Township is capitalizing on new opportunities as Evonik Canada and INVISTA invest $31 million to reintroduce new and returning products. The investment brings exciting opportunities to the Leeds Grenville region. Presenters Greg Canning-LeBlanc, Plant Manager, Maitland Hydrogen Peroxide, Evonik Canada and INVISTA (Canada) Company's Maitland Site Manager Matthew Murton will present on collaboration and growth.

 

Cam Heaps, Founder / Chief Executive Officer, Voltari Marine Electric will share exciting details on Voltari Marine Electric's commercial fleet launch. Headquartered in Merrickville, Voltari is a global leader in marine technology with a collaborative team of visionaries.


Potentia Renewables Inc. Chief Executive Officer Ben Greenhouse and Senior Project Manager will speak on The Skyview 2 Battery Energy Storage Project in the Township of Edwardsburgh Cardinal. Providing up to 411MW to improve Ontario’s electrical grid, the $750 million facility will play a pivotal role in meeting energy demand and storage capabilities.


Hosted by the Leeds Grenville Economic Development Office, in partnership with Michael Barrett, M.P., Steve Clark, M.P.P., the 1000 Islands, Grenville and Valley Heartland Community Futures Development Corporations and the Eastern Workforce Innovation Board, invites you to the region's top Economic Development event of the year.


For a full list of event speaker information, see the Summit Advanced Agenda.


Easily register by visiting the Invest Summit webpage.

WHEN: Friday, November 22, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

WHERE: North Grenville Municipal Centre, Kemptville

COST: $55 (Advanced Registration Required)

Reserve your ticket

Maitland Chemistry Park speakers, top: Greg Canning-LeBlanc, Plant Manager, Evonik Canada; Matthew Murton, INVISTA (Canada) Company

Cam Heaps, Founder / Chief Executive Officer, Voltari Marine Electric

From Potentia Renewables Inc. are top: Ben Greenhouse, Chief Executive Officer; Will Patterson, Senior Project Manager

Biz Bytes

New - Aussie Tree Care

LOMBARDY - Aussie Tree Care covers all forms of tree removal, from basic rigging to full crane work. Their services include annual tree maintenance, storm work, tree bracing with The cobra® bracing systems, stump grinding and mobile wood processing. Reach them at 613- 283-1698, or click the logo to link to their website.

No Name Grocery Store Opens in Brockville

BROCKVILLE - The new discount food store opened to the public on Parkedale Avenue on October 30th. Sixty per cent of the 1,300 popular items in the store are No Name brand, the rest being national brands. They will stock a small range of frozen food items but nothing refrigerated. Operating hours will be from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

Business Awards

Augusta Township Toasts Businesses at Recognition Breakfast

Photo: Economic Development Committee Chair Rob Whittaker, MPP Steve Clark and Augusta Township Mayor Jeff Shaver present the team of Beattie Dukelow Electrical Inc., with the 2024 Business of the Year Award.

MAITLAND - A gathering of Augusta Township employees, volunteers, guests and dignitaries from around the region attended the annual Economic Development Business of the Year Awards Breakfast event on November 1st. ​ The awards recognize achievements in business, new business, and the agricultural sectors. Hosts were Economic Development Committee Chair Rob Whittaker and Member Judi Baril.


With this year's theme being "Building on the Best", United Counties of Leeds and Grenville Warden Nancy Peckford welcomed attendees and thanked the businesses for their dedicated entrepreneurship and supporting their community. Mayor Jeff Shaver underscored recent new and redevelopments within the Township of Augusta Industrial Park by INVISTA and Evonik, stating that growth is alive and well in the region.


Guest Panelists Kevin Spencer, Executive Chair of the South Grenville Chamber of Commerce and Pam Robertson, Executive Director of the Brockville & District Chamber of Commerce gave perspective to the urban versus rural conversation. Both agreed that easy access to resources, collaboration and the importance of having a fruitful networking strategy are priorities in building healthy local and regional business infrastructure.


Beattie Dukelow Electrical Inc., was awarded Business of the Year for their excellence and community involvement. ​These contractors offer electrical power products such as transformers, switch gears, breakers, cables, panel board and switches. In addition, they offer lighting, drives, UPS, batteries, motors, generators and light fixtures to commercial projects.


New Business of the Year was given to Creekside Kids Secondhand, noted for its sustainable approach to children's clothing and community contributions. ​The business aims to reduce the environmental impact of fashion by extending the life cycle of clothing. Sarah Bell was unable to attend.


Spot On Hoof Trimming was recognized at the first Agriculture Business Award for its essential services to the cattle industry. ​The business works with farmers, veterinary staff, and nutritionists to provide sound, healthy feet for cattle.

MPP Steve Clark with Augusta Township Mayor Jeff Shaver congratulate Alain Pitre of Spot On Hoof Trimming with the New Agriculture Business Award along with Rob Whittaker.

MPP Steve Clark with Augusta Township Mayor Jeff Shaver and Rob Whittaker recognized soon-to-retire John Van Schie for his decades of operating Augusta Motor Sales Ltd.

A Special Legacy Award was presented to Augusta Motor Sales Ltd., owner John Van Schie, who is planning to retire after 49 years in business in the township. Other nominees included Augusta Motor Sales Ltd. for Business of the Year, Dairy Barn and Western Grill for New Business of the Year, and Ashby Farms & Heartbeet Farm for Agri-Sector Business of the Year.

Small Business

Upcoming Business Consults

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 the professionals at Leeds Grenville Small Business.


Identify marketplace opportunities, write an effective business plan, clarify government regulations, source licensing information and find financial support.


Book a flexible and free 45 minute session, offered at both Smiths Falls and Brockville centre locations and throughout the region.


Upcoming North Grenville Consults available.


Host: Leeds Grenville Small Business

When: December 4th, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Where: North Grenville Municipal Centre,

285 County Road 44, Kemptville

Book Your North Grenville Consultation

Starter Company Plus New Round: Businesses Can Receive up to $5,000

The Starter Company Plus program for the above areas opens a new round Tuesday, November 19th. program provides personalized support and resources for small business owners. Participants will receive one-on-one guidance from an advisor at the Small Business Advisory Centre, attend a business plan boot camp, and participate in training sessions led by professional consultants. Pitch your business to a grant committee for the opportunity to qualify for funding of up to $5,000.


Eligible applicants must be 18+, work full-time in their business, and be within the first five years of starting or expanding. Participants must contribute at least 25% of the grant value into their business. The upcoming round will cover Elizabethtown-Kitley (north), Merrickville-Wolford, Rideau Lakes and Westport businesses. Email Cindy James or call 613-283-0062 for program information.

Tourism

Fresh Baked Adventures Featured in Edible Ottawa's November Edition

Edible Ottawa magazine showcases the 1000 Islands Rideau Canal Waterways with a spotlight on the Fresh Baked Adventures tourism initiative. Excitedly bite into a savoury, soft and crispy sausage roll from the Crusty Baker in Kemptville, thrill in a renowned warm and melty butter tart from Tasty Goodness Bake Shop in Westport and delight in an icing-drizzled blueberry lemon scone from Violets on Main Village in Merrickville, you're sure to fall in love along the journey. This ad highlights culinary experiences that make this region a must-visit fresh baked food destination. Print editions are distributed in the national capital region and the digital format is viewed by audiences nationwide and beyond. Look for the next ad featuring more Adventures!



Funding Opportunities

FedDev Ontario Regional Program Fund

FedDev Ontario is excited to launch a new intake of fund applications under the regional program stream for businesses and organizations in the region. Please visit these web pages for more information:


Fall 2024 intake programs are:


Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative in southern Ontario

Supporting AI-driven innovation and business growth in the region.


Regional Homebuilding Innovation Initiative in southern Ontario

Fostering innovative solutions to help transform the way houses are built in Canada.


Funding for organizations that help businesses grow in southern Ontario

Helping businesses grow and support regional economic development.

There are two simplified ways to apply:


  • Funding for incorporated businesses – No-interest, repayable contributions from $125,000 up to $10 million for companies to grow, innovate and diversify.


  • Funding for organizations that help businesses grow (not-for-profit) – Non-repayable contributions from $125,000 to $10 million for organizations to grow regional ecosystems, transform local economies, and foster inclusive sustainable economic growth.


Register for one of these program information sessions:


Thursday, November 21 - French

Thursday, November 28 - English

Wednesday, December 4 - English

Deadline December 20, 2024

Real Estate

Beautiful architecture on 27 acres. Formerly a private boarding school, this property boasts a stunning location overlooking the St. Lawrence River. Couple this exquisite building and chapel with 19 villas containing 68 bedrooms, multiple meeting and event rooms, stunning acreage in a beautiful setting, this is truly a one of a kind opportunity.

View Map for 1120 County Road 2, Maitland.

Download listing details

Workshops, Seminars and Webinar Library

Employers: National Learning Series on Economic Immigration Programs

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, is offering 30 minute information sessions that will allow employers from all sectors to learn more about Canada’s economic immigration programs and services.


Covering topics such as Francophone Immigration, Free Trade Agreements, the Global Skills Strategy, and Express Entry and pathways to permanent residence.


Guidance and resources are available to employers. Sessions feature new topics and will give employers an opportunity to ask questions. Attend one or all sessions based on your interests and needs.



Free Trade Agreements

  • November 14 at 1 p.m.


Francophone Immigration

  • November 19 at 11 a.m.
  • November 21 at 1 p.m.


Express Entry

  • November 26 at 11 a.m.
  • November 28 at 1 p.m.


Register

How to Start a Business Workshops

Cardinal and Athens

Thinking about starting your own business but not sure where to begin? Attend the How to Start a Business workshop that will guide you through the essentials of launching a successful business. Whether you’re still in the idea stage or ready to take the plunge, this workshop will provide you with the tools and knowledge to set yourself up for success. Free to attend, registration required.

Cardinal Registration

Date: November 26, 4:30-6 p.m.

Where: Ingredion Centre, 4050 Dishaw Street

Athens Registration

Date: December 12, 4:30-6 p.m.

Where: Joshua Bates Centre, 1 Main Street

Elgin


Date: December 6, 10-11:30 a.m.

Where: Guthrie House, 10 Elgin Street

Email Cindy James or call 613-283-0062 to book.

Leeds Grenville Small Business - The Growth Series: Winter Workshops

From January 8th to March 26th, Small Business will be hosting seven powerful workshops designed to give you actionable strategies and practical tools to elevate your business. This isn’t just another workshop series—it’s a hands-on, deep-dive experience that will equip you with everything you need to grow, expand, and sustain a thriving business. Whether you’re looking to boost your leadership skills or optimize your cash flow, we’ve got you covered:

  • Individual Workshop: $30
  • Full Series: $180 (a savings when you sign up for all 7 workshops!)


By enrolling in the full series, you’ll gain a comprehensive education on the key drivers of business success, giving you the knowledge to level up every aspect of your operation. This is your chance to invest in your business and take it to the next level!

Register today

Free Tax Help for Small Business or Self-employed Individuals

Join this webinar to understand your tax obligations.


Learn about:

  • General bookkeeping concepts and best practices
  • Explain common tax errors
  • Demonstrate how to use financial benchmarks for relevant industries
  • Provide information on the CRA’s services


Host: The Small Business Advisory Centre

Presenter: Canada Revenue Agency Liaison Officer

Date: November 25, 9:30-11 a.m.

Where: Online

Cost: Free

Register today

Future Events

Brockville Tourism Summit

November 18, 2024

Brockville Arts Centre

Leeds Grenville Economic Development Summit

November 22, 2024

North Grenville Municipal Centre

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 November 26th edition should be received by November 18th.
  • Submissions for the December 10th edition should be received by December 2nd.
Subscribe to our eNewsletter

United Counties of Leeds Grenville Economic Development Office

Shelbi McFarlane, Business Development Officer; Jeanette Johnston, Small Business Development Officer; Carol Hardy, Small Business Program Assistant; Ann Weir, Economic Development Manager; Cyndy Bolton, Economic Development Officer; Joanne Poll, Administrator & Communications Support; Andrew Stacey, Tourism Marketing Support.

investleedsgrenville.com | 1000islandsrideaucanalwaterways.com | youtube.com/leedsgrenville

32 Wall Street, Suite 300, Brockville, ON K6V 4R9

613-342-3840 | 1-800-770-2170 | econdev@uclg.on.ca

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