Economic Development eNews | November 25, 2025 | | Economic Development Summit Report | | Community and Collaboration Shines at Summit | | Photo: Economic Development Manager Ann Weir, United Counties of Leeds and Grenville Warden Corinna Smith-Gatcke, Marlene Thake, 2025 Thake Award recipient Brian Purcell of James Purcell Insurance Ltd., Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands-Rideau Lakes MP Michael Barrett, Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes MPP Steve Clark. | | |
Celebrate, Learn and Prepare was the theme of the day at the 17th Annual Leeds Grenville Economic Development Summit. The North Grenville Municipal Centre was filled with attendees and guests on November 21st for a full day of insight, collaboration, and celebration of the region’s economic achievements.
The year’s Summit recognized the Counties’ 175th anniversary with numerous past Wardens in attendance. United Counties of Leeds and Grenville Warden Corinna Smith-Gatcke extended a warm welcome. "It is remarkable the number of business and political leaders who gather at this event to collaborate for the common goal of sustaining and growing businesses in the region so we continue to enjoy the quality of lifestyle we have in Leeds Grenville,” said the Warden.
Special recognition was given to past Wardens in attendance including Ron Pollard, Howard French, Doug Struthers, Robin Jones, Roger Haley and Nancy Peckford.
Leeds-Grenville–Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes MP Michael Barrett welcomed attendees. “The Leeds Grenville Economic Development Summit was a constructive day, highlighted by important discussions on trade tariffs and how businesses can navigate this new economic reality, demonstrating once again the valuable partnership we have in working together to create greater opportunities for our community,” said Barrett.
A special announcement by Leeds-Grenville–Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes MPP Steve
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Clark shared that the province is accelerating the planning process to meet power demands for economic growth. In response, the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) in partnership with Hydro One Networks Inc., Rideau St. Lawrence Distribution Inc., and Hydro Embrun will accelerate regional electricity planning specifically for the St. Lawrence Region.
"Our government recognizes the urgent need for more energy to power economic growth in Leeds
and Grenville and across the St. Lawrence region,” said MPP Clark. “We are poised to grow, but the top concern I hear from job creators and homebuilders who want to invest here is access to affordable, reliable power. Today’s announcement sends a clear signal that our government is acting by accelerating the regional planning process to meet the specific needs of our region."
Brian Purcell, co-owner of James Purcell Insurance Broker Ltd. in the Township of Edwardsburgh Cardinal, received the Bill Thake Memorial Economic Development Leadership Award from Warden Smith-Gatcke and Marlene Thake. Purcell was honoured for his longstanding volunteerism and commitment to community development.
"It's certainly a big honour," said Purcell. "A part of economic development for any community includes volunteer organizations. They provide activities and resources to local residents and also bring people into our communities regularly through various events. They can also attract new people to the area that want to call your town home."
| | MPP Steve Clark provided a second special announcement regarding broadband services. The Ontario government is investing $18.4 million in support of Eastern Ontario Regional Network (EORN) broadband expansion projects. In partnership with five local Internet Service Providers (ISPs), the Eastern Ontario Infill Broadband Project will bring $12.1 million to Leeds Grenville to connect 1,500 residents, businesses, and farms to reliable high-speed internet. | | | | Photo: Back, l-r: Meredith Simpson, Kingston Online Services; Steve Lynn, WTC Communications; Birket Foster, Storm Internet; Mike Lynn, NRTC Communications; Jamie Brogue, IGS Hawkesbury. Front, l-r: Roger Haley, Mayor of Front of Yonge Township; MPP Steve Clark; Sam Oosterhoff, Associate Minister of Energy-Intensive Industries; Corinna Smith-Gatcke, Warden of the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville; Jason St. Pierre, CEO of EORN. | | Photo: The morning keynote was delivered by Hon. Nina Tangri, Ontario’s Associate Minister of Small Business, who highlighted how the provincial government is working to protect small businesses and jobs amid U.S. tariffs and a challenging economic climate. | | Photo: Entrepreneur and strategist Brock Dickinson led a session on business strategy and adaptive leadership. In his keynote, he offered clear and practical insights on how companies, communities, and individuals can respond to tariffs and trade wars. | | |
Additional Presentations
Mark Brus, Operations Manager for the Rideau Canal with Parks Canada, delivered “The Rideau Canal: Looking Ahead,” sharing an update on the UNESCO World Heritage Site with a focus on its upcoming 200th anniversary. He also addressed ways to help mitigate the impacts of the Lasalle Causeway access interruptions. Brus invited attendees to offer suggestions and possible assistance, noting that the engineering and construction of a new bridge may take up to five years.
Kennan Ip and Brian Gordon of the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) discussed the growing need for electricity to support economic development, decarbonization, and population growth. They outlined how electricity planning and new infrastructure influence regional and provincial growth, economic prosperity, and long-term energy security.
Leeds Grenville's Carol Hardy moderated the Bottle & Barrel Adventures interactive tasting session, “Behind the Brews,” highlighting how craft producers are building unique and experiential tourism opportunities. Panelists Sean Lucey of Windmill Brewery, Matthew Shapton of Hall's Apple Market and Jocelyn Major of Kemptville Brewing Company shared insights into how collaboration among producers, tourism operators,
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and municipalities is strengthening the sector.
Jesse Mitchell of Strader-Ferris International explored cross-border customs brokering and logistics, offering practical examples and guidance such as their Duty Wash Program to assist businesses navigating the complexities of international trade and de minimis.
The Summit concluded with an update from Ann Weir, Manager of Leeds Grenville Economic Development Office, who reviewed the year including the Regional Economic Development through Immigration program, Tourism Adventures, and local food initiatives. She also presented the 2026–2029 Strategic Areas of Focus for Economic Development and outlined upcoming initiatives.
The “Leeds Grenville Economic Development Office is looking forward to working with businesses throughout the region. As part of the new strategy, we will be implementing several new digital marketing platforms. We are also thrilled to announce another tourism experience - Animal Friend Adventures as part of the 1000 Islands Rideau Canal Waterways tourism region.” she said.
Mark your calendars: the 2025 Leeds Grenville Economic Development Summit will be held on Friday, November 20, 2026.
| | Photo: Brian Gordon of IESO states that regional planning works best through collaboration, engaging with the community stakeholders to meet the needs of the future, touching on energy storage, nuclear projects and the ability to supply homes and industry. | | Photo: Carol Hardy moderates the Bottle & Barrel Panel. l-r Sean Lucey of Windmill Brewery, Matthew Shapton of Hall's Apple Market and Jocelyn Major of Kemptville Brewing Company share insights. | | Breaking Ground for Canada's Largest Energy Storage System | | Photo: l-r, Mayor of Edwardsburgh Cardinal Tory Deschamps, Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation Limited Partnership Manager Leah Hinterberger, Chief Greg Sarazin of the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation, Ontario Premier Doug Ford, Ben Greenhouse of Potentia Renewables Inc., Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes MPP Steve Clark and Minister of Energy and Mines Stephen Lecce. | | |
EDWARDSBURGH CARDINAL – Ontario Premier Doug Ford, Minister of Energy and Mines Stephen Lecce, Leeds–Grenville–Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes MPP Steve Clark, Ben Greenhouse of Potentia Renewables Inc., and Chief Greg Sarazin of the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation gathered on Dobbie Road on Wednesday, November 12th, for the official announcement and groundbreaking of the Skyview 2 battery energy storage project. The event drew multiple media outlets and featured remarks from dignitaries followed by a brief question period.
The 411-megawatt project is an energy storage facility procured through the Independent Electricity System Operator’s (IESO) and developed in partnership between Potentia Renewables Inc. and the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation.
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Once operational, the facility will store electricity during off-peak hours and release it when demand is high, supporting a more resilient and efficient grid capable of providing enough power for approximately 400,000 homes. It is estimated to create 300 jobs during construction and additional operations positions following completion.
The project site, located north of Dobbie Road, was selected for its proximity to existing transmission lines and its separation from residential areas.
This investment aligns with Ontario’s strategy to expand battery storage capacity and ensure sustainable, cost-effective power for the future, placing Leeds and Grenville at the centre of one of Canada’s most significant energy infrastructure projects.
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The French Country Kitchen Debuts
Cynthia Peters of Maison Maitland Cooking School hosts five episodes of this piloted series that features local producers supplying local ingredients for easy to create French dishes. VIVA Productions produced the episodes which will be featured in mid-December on Bell Fibe TV in an on-demand format. Gather family and friends to watch The French Country Kitchen, maybe you'll see a familiar face or two! Stay tuned for more.
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Julianna's Serves Rideau Lakes Region
Conveniently located at 15 Main Street in Elgin, Julianna’s is a new breakfast and lunch spot serving the Rideau Lakes region with homemade soups, sandwiches, desserts, and great coffee. Owned and operated by April Gibson-Turnbull and Kristine Cyr, formerly of Sub Zero in Delta, the café offers daily specials posted on their Facebook page. For more information, call 613-359-0586.
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The Cove Inn Celebrates 150th
The Cove Inn, a heritage hotel on the Rideau Canal is celebrating its 40th anniversary, coinciding with a tribute to the historic building the business calls home. The facility is marking its 150th year, honoring the dedicated staff who make this Westport landmark a unique stop for all visitors to Leeds Grenville. Join them in celebration. Raise a glass of local wine, beer, spirits, enjoy their Canadian cuisine, and stay a night or two.
| | | Starter Company Plus Open for Applications; Book a Business Consult | | |
Applications are now open for the next intake of the Starter Company Plus program, beginning in January 2026. Starter Company Plus provides entrepreneurs with the essential training, mentorship, and potential grant funding needed to start or expand their small businesses. Participants benefit from connecting with mentors and fellow entrepreneurs in a supportive and collaborative environment.
If you are age 18 and older, are in the early stages of operating a business or expanding an existing one under five years old, you may qualify for free business training, assistance in developing a solid business plan, and have the opportunity to pitch for a grant of up to $5,000 to support business growth.
Apply by December 1, 2025, at 4:00 p.m.
| | The Small Business Advisory Centre provides free advisory services to aspiring and current small business owners. Services include one-on-one business consultations, training sessions, and workshops throughout the year, Find more here. | |
Upcoming Consultations
Westport Area
Where: Westport Municipal Office,
30 Bedford Street, Westport
When: November 28, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
| | Upcoming Business Consultations in Gananoque and North Grenville | | |
Are you thinking about starting a business or looking to grow your existing one? Leeds Grenville Small Business offers free, confidential consultations to help you take the next step with confidence.
Receive assistance with:
- Developing and refining your business idea
- Preparing a professional business plan and cash flow projection
- Understanding government regulations, licensing, and registration requirements
- Conducting market research to identify your target audience and opportunities
- Exploring potential grant programs
- Accessing workshops, training, and local business resources
Whether you’re launching a new business or
looking to strengthen an existing one, we’re
here to help you succeed.
Spaces are limited, book your appointment today!
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Upcoming Consults
North Grenville Area
Where: North Grenville Municipal Centre,
285 County Road 44, Kemptville
When: December 10, 2026
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Gananoque Area
Where: Gananoque Town Hall,
30 King Street East, Gananoque
When: January 14, 2026
| | RTO9 Partnership Fund Reopens | | |
A new window has opened for the 2025-2026 Partnership Fund. It is intended solely for for-profit tourism businesses interested in undertaking tourism-related initiatives that increase visitation to the South Eastern Ontario region.
There are four project categories for eligible projects to apply under:
1. New Indigenous Tourism Experiences
2. Videography / Photography
3. Marquee & Wayfinding Signage
4. Translation
Deadline: December 7, 11:59 p.m.
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Access these items on the website:
- Quick Facts
- Info session recording
- Guidelines
- Eligibility
- Application
| | Apply Now for the 2026 Canada Summer Jobs Wage Subsidy | | |
Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ) provides wage subsidies to support employers to create quality summer work experiences for youth aged 15 to 30 years.
Employers from not-for-profit organizations, the public sector, as well as private sector organizations with 50 or fewer full-time employees can apply. Not-for-profit employers can receive funding for up to 100% of the provincial or territorial minimum wage and public and private sector employers are eligible to receive funding for up to 50%.
Deadline: December 11, 11:59 p.m. PST
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Are you ready to:
- Provide quality work experiences for youth?
- Provide opportunities for youth to develop and improve their skills?
- Respond to national and local priorities to improve access to the labour market for youth who face unique barriers?
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First-time Festivals & Events Now Eligible for Experience Ontario Program
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The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming (MTCG) supports Ontario’s economy and reputation as a top destination by growing tourism and attracting investment and investing in festivals and events across the province. The 2026 Experience Ontario funding window is launched! New and established events can apply to the different streams.
The competitive funding program supports festivals and events that attract visitors and boost local and regional economies.
| Deadline December 16, 2025, 4 p.m. EST | |
| Black Entrepreneurship Program Ecosystem Fund | | |
The Ecosystem Fund is a key component of the Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP), an initiative which aims to break down barriers and create opportunities for Black entrepreneurs. It strengthens the Black entrepreneurship ecosystem by supporting Black-led not-for-profit organizations to deliver high-impact business services from mentorship and networking to training, outreach and capacity building.
How to apply?
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Determine if you are eligible by completing the online self-screening tool.
- See if this funding opportunity is right for you by clicking "Next" and reviewing the program details.
- Submit your completed application and all required documents by January 9, 2026, 4:59 pm Eastern Standard Time.
Deadline January 9, 2026, 4:59 p.m. EST
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This fund will continue to empower Black entrepreneurs and business owners and support their long-term success through 2030.
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Established and fully equipped, this fast food business sits on a town lot in the high-traffic, tourist-friendly heart of historic Merrickville, steps from the Rideau Canal Locks.
The take-out building was completely renovated in 2006, with $80,000 in kitchen updates in 2022. Ample on-site parking, a large deck, and lawn for outdoor dining. Municipal water, septic, 200-amp electrical service, high-speed internet, and excellent cell coverage. Growth potential and turnkey readiness make this a rewarding investment.
View map for 106 Broadway Street West.
| | Workshops, Seminars and Webinar Library | | Food and beverage entrepreneurs in Leeds Grenville are eligible to take part in the Foodpreneur Advantage, designed to support food sector businesses at any stage. Start-Up Seminars: a series of 6 free workshops for those starting or refining a food business, offered 4x per year. Learn the basics including regulations, pricing, branding, packaging, labelling, and how to sell to retailers. | | | | |
When:
Nov 27: Food Safety Fundamentals for Start-ups
Dec 4: Labelling & Packaging your Food Product
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
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AI Webinar Series
It’s time to learn the #1 skill that will change how ChatGPT works for you: prompting. This session breaks down the basics of crafting good prompts, because the output is only as good as what you ask. We’ll explore how to get more tailored, thoughtful, and relevant answers that sound like you and work.
When:
Nov. 27: Marketing Magic: Content in Half the Time
Dec. 16: Plan it Like You Mean It
Jan. 27: Teamwork & Tools: AI in Collaboration
Feb. 17: Putting it All Together
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
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Free tax help for T2 Businesses
A free live webinar for self incorporated or small incorporations with Liaison Officers from Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to help you understand your tax obligations.
Learn about:
- Info on income tax, GST/HST and payroll
- Common tax errors
- Financial benchmarks and demonstration
- Info on CRA’s services and helpful tools
- General bookkeeping and best practices
When: Dec 1
Time: 9:-11:30 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
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Cross-Border Shipments
Ontario SMEs are invited for a free one-hour webinar about the Do’s and Don’ts that must be observed as you successfully move your goods across the border.
Hear from a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency officer who will provide Ontario companies with what is mandatory when shipping products to the United States.
Emphasis will be on the documentation required. Hosted by Government of Ontario in partnership with the United States Customs and Border Protection Agency.
When: Dec 3
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
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Power in Partnerships
Partnerships can take your event to the next level — but building the right ones takes strategy and intention. Explore how collaborations with businesses, organizations, and community partners can diversify programming, share resources, and increase impact.
You’ll gain tools and insights to identify potential partners, create win–win opportunities, and build stronger, more resilient events.
Hosted by RTO9 and Festivals and Events Ontario.
When: Dec 4
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
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Employment Standards Act - What Employers Need To Know
Review the major standards of the Employment Standards Act, 2000, responsibilities of an employer, and the role of an Employment Standards Officer in an investigation and/or inspection.
Learn about:
- minimum wage
- termination of employment
- hours of work limits
- leaves of absence
- vacation
- public holiday
When: Dec 8
Time: 9:30-11 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
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Hiring Staff -
What You Need to Know
Strengthen your hiring process with practical, employer-focused guidance. If your business is recruiting, growing your team, or refining how you hire, this focused session will help you attract and select candidates with the skills you need.
Learn core hiring best practices. Led by Laurelle Avery, Training and Development Manager, EEC. Hosted by Leeds Grenville Small Business.
When: Dec 9
Time: 9-11 a.m.
Where: EEC-105 Strowger Blvd., Brockville
Cost: Free
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AI for Business Efficiency Series
These hands-on sessions aren’t about ad tech or flashy marketing. Instead, they focus on quiet, practical systems that work in the background helping you to reclaim hours of admin time every week. Each session is delivered in plain language; with templates you can start using the same day. Offered to business owners located in the 1000 Islands, Frontenac, and Grenville regions.
When:
Dec 10: Safe & Scalable AI Systems - Choose the right tools, protect your data, and plan for growth
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Time: 9 am - 10:30 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: $20/workshop
| | | | International Women's Day Event | March 5, 2026 | North Grenville Municipal Centre, Kemptville | | Economic Development Summit | November 20, 2026 | North Grenville Municipal Centre, Kemptville | | | 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 December 9th, 2025 edition should be received by December 1st.
- Submissions for the January 6th, 2026 edition should be received by December 29th.
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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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