Economic Development eNews | September 1, 2026 | | From Seeds to Sanctuary, an Adventure Roo-ted in Care | | |
OXFORD STATION – What started with one donkey has grown into a sanctuary for more than over 300 animals, a thriving Garden Centre and a 1000 Islands Rideau Canal Waterways Animal Adventure that has taken Gary and Carla Saunders in directions they never imagined.
Today, Saunders Country Critters Zoological Sanctuary & Garden Centre is home to an eclectic collection of animals from around the world, including kangaroos, lemurs, coatis, foxes, servals, sibling bobcats, lampacas, porcupines, an emu, peacocks, parrots, kinkajous and more. Alongside the sanctuary, the business operates a seasonal Garden Centre, growing more than 1,000 varieties of annuals, perennials, herbs and vegetables.
Gary and Carla's exotic journey began in the mid-1980s as they worked operating convenience and general stores throughout the Ottawa Valley. Gary’s Christmas gift to Carla of a donkey soon sparked a fascination for mammals. The rural property grew into a destination farm with about 70 llamas, becoming the first agricultural operation of its kind in Leeds Grenville to be open to the public.
Then came Leroy the Lemur. Introduced to the farm in the mid-1990s, Leroy marked the beginning of what would become Saunders Zoo and Sanctuary. More exotic species followed, many arriving because they were neglected, injured, abandoned or otherwise in need of a home.
“We often hear about these cases through our tight network of animal sanctuary professionals,” says Carla. “We’ll see a call go out for accommodation relative to an animal, then consider if it is something that we can take on.” Each new arrival requires careful consideration of space, diet, availability of veterinary care, staffing and finances. They operate as a business rather than a non-profit organization.
The Saunders have personally invested heavily in the operation and recently accessed funding to help with the cost of highway wayfinding signage. With plenty of room to grow, they are always looking for opportunities to welcome more animals relative to their staffing and resource capacities.
Providing proper care is a responsibility the Saunders take seriously. The sanctuary is licensed by the Ministry of Natural Resources and undergoes regular animal welfare inspections by the PAWS organization. The operation also uses ZIMS, an international database for managing animal husbandry records. All summer camp facilitators are certified by the Canadian Wildlife Federation.
A small staff and more than a dozen amazing volunteers help keep the sanctuary running, from feeding, cleaning and socializing to building enclosures and maintaining the property. Young staff play key roles in the popular summer Kamps where children learn and create in the sanctuary's wilderness environment. "Everyone here helps enrich the lives of animals and visitors," says Carla.
"During winter we help the animals move into seven propane-heated, winterized structures while the Garden Centre’s greenhouses begin growing plants for the upcoming retail season," Carla explains. In spring, the Garden Centre comes to life, generating important revenue that helps support the ongoing care of the sanctuary’s residents.
“The appeal of Saunders Country Critters is difficult to put into words. There’s kind of a magic here,” says Carla. “It’s a place that has a story of its own and where you can write your own chapter. It’s a soft-landing spot for both animals and people.”
Perhaps that is the best description of a place where people feel welcomed, every animal has a story, and each has found a place to belong.
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Photos: Carla Saunders stands by her sanctuary.
Above from top: female kangaroos graze and gaze; dedicated staff share rewarding experiences; the garden centre during the busy spring planting season; high quality flowers for purchase; a bobcat glances over at visitors passing by.
| | Minister Presents Landbank Transfer to Edwardsburgh Cardinal | | Photo (l-r): Edwardsburgh Cardinal Councillors Chris Ward and Walter Smail join Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes MPP Steve Clark, Deputy Mayor Stephen Dillabough, Mayor Tory Deschamps, Acting Minister of Infrastructure Todd McCarthy and Councilor Joe Martelle for the landbank announcement. | | |
Edwardsburgh Cardinal is moving forward with Phase 2 of its historic landbank initiative, with the province transferring more than 7,600 acres of unused government land to the Township. The agreement will repurpose land that has sat idle for decades, creating opportunities for new housing, agriculture, economic development and environmental conservation.
Acting Infrastructure Minister Todd McCarthy said the agreement demonstrates how underused lands can be leveraged to support economic growth, job creation and increased housing supply. “For years these lands sat with their potential unrealized, but no more,” he said. “The Province is working with Edwardsburgh Cardinal to unlock the potential of these lands and put them into use.”
“Putting the landbank in the hands of this community has been at the top of my checklist for years,” said MPP Steve Clark, recognizing the seven years invested in bringing the transfer to fruition.
Mayor Tory Deschamps and Township council called the agreement a historic milestone. Deputy Mayor Stephen Dillabough credited those who invested time in legal reviews, research, financial planning and meetings that contributed to the transfer. “These negotiations took patient professionalism and steadfast commitment to achieve the best possible outcome for our community,” he said, emphasizing the importance of the transfer to the Township’s future.
The transfer follows 2,500 acres moved by the province earlier this year and earmarked for the
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expansion of HFI Pyrotechnics. President Rhiannon Iles said the collaboration among all levels of government helped make the opportunity possible. “The Counties, the Township and the Province demonstrated collaboration, and that's what got us here. We are very excited for the future in this township,” she said.
With Phase 2 complete, more than 10,000 acres of surplus provincial land will be available for productive use. The land transfers are anticipated to generate up to $187 million in economic value for the region over the next 10 years and create up to 600 new jobs.
A key opportunity will be the development of a carefully planned commercial and industrial park to attract investment and support long-term economic growth. The lands will also strengthen existing farm operations, support new housing and provide opportunities for conservation, including new forests and trails.
Mayor Deschamps said the initiative will help protect the community’s farming heritage while creating a strong and sustainable foundation for future generations. Clint Cameron of the Ontario Farm Association also acknowledged the efforts of all levels of government, calling it a wonderful day for the area’s farming community and the opportunities ahead.
The Edwardsburgh Cardinal Landbank is part of Ontario’s broader effort to return surplus government properties to productive use. Since 2018, the province has repurposed 159 surplus properties.
| | Join Leeds Grenville Small Business for an energizing evening at the Small Business Success Forum (formerly Bridges to Better Business), centered on this year’s theme: Grit, Growth, and Greatness. Connect with local leaders and fellow entrepreneurs, gain valuable strategic insights from our expert panel. | |
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Attendee perks include:
- free professional headshot
- personalized digital marketing assessment of your business footprint
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Featured Panelist: Barry Moss
Barry Moss is a successful Eastern Ontario serial entrepreneur who acquired his first business, 401 Electric, in 1992 at just 23 years old, scaling it from a three-person team to a leading regional electrical contractor with over 50 employees across seven business acquisitions. Equally committed to community leadership and philanthropy, he lives by the motto "you get what you give," dedicating his time to mentoring emerging entrepreneurs and helping local businesses and communities thrive.
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The 3-person panel to be followed by a Q&A and a delicious working dinner; the evening will also feature:
- Leeds Grenville Small Business Entrepreneur of the Year Award presentation
- Immigrant Entrepreneur of the Year Award presentation
- Starter Company Plus Graduation
| | Last Call for Thake Award Nominations, Deadline September 18 at 4 p.m. | | | | |
Leeds Grenville is home to numerous businesses owned by people who make considerable leadership contributions to our communities. Consider recognizing an influential individual for their work over and above being a local entrepreneur. The Economic Development Office invites nominations for the Bill Thake Memorial Award for Economic Development Leadership.
If you have someone in mind who is a resident within the 10-member municipalities of Leeds Grenville, consider putting their name forward. Talk to your colleagues and community members about who is deserving of this award. The recipient will be announced prior to the Economic Development Summit, and will be officially honoured at the event on November 20th. Contact econdev@uclg.on.ca or call Shelbi McFarlane at 613-342-3840 ext. 5361.
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Tariff Support Programs Announced
On August 25th, the Government of Canada introduced support for workers and businesses affected by U.S. tariffs. These tariff-related programs are designed to help protect Canadian jobs and strengthen businesses affected by trade disruptions. These measures provide assistance to employers and workers facing challenges from tariffs, helping businesses maintain operations, adapt to changing markets, retain employees and invest in new opportunities. Visit our Tariff Resources webpage for updates.
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Name Change Gives Rise to New Signage
The aggregate and building materials giant Lafarge Canada rebranded to Amrize following its parent company's official name change and operational spinoff. The company will maintain its active footprint supplying concrete, aggregates, and building solutions in Leeds Grenville. Find Amrize operating locally through its Brockville Ready Mix facility located at 1864 County Road 2.
| | | Summer Company Participants Experience Success | Photo, (l-r) front: Summer Company Participants Forrest Swale of Forrest Fotography, Lexi Belanger of Belanger’s Nature Nook, Owen O’Brien of Splash and Relax Swimming Lessons and Austin Ogilvie of River City Greenworks. Absent: Ava Andress of Next Rep Basketball Training. Back: Leeds Grenville Small Business Development Officer Carol Hardy, Merrickville-Wolford Mayor Michael Cameron, North Grenville Mayor Nancy Peckford, Leeds Grenville Warden Corinna Smith-Gatcke, Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands-Rideau Lakes MP Michael Barrett, Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes MPP Steve Clark, Augusta Mayor Jeff Shaver and Leeds Grenville Small Business Assistant Meagan Metcalf. Absent: Ava Andress of Next Rep Basketball Training. | | |
United Counties of Leeds and Grenville Small Business hosted the graduation for this year’s Summer Company students. At the informal gathering, the 2026 Summer Company participants were joined by MP for Leeds -Grenville-Thousand Islands-Rideau Lakes Michael Barrett, MPP for Leeds -Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes Steve Clark and United Counties of Leeds and Grenville Warden Corinna Smith-Gatcke, family members, mentors and program supporters to celebrate youth entrepreneurship in the region.
Students shared their Summer Company program experiences of starting and managing their businesses. Participants highlighted the program’s role in building their business skills, confidence and connections by sharing their challenges, learnings and plans for the future.
“Congratulations to the graduates of this year’s Summer Company Program. These young entrepreneurs are vital to the future of the economy in our rural and small-town communities,” said MPP Steve Clark, “I’m proud that our government is supporting youth entrepreneurship by funding Summer
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Company. With the support of the great team at Leeds Grenville Small Business, the program gives participants invaluable experience and mentorship to realize their dreams by operating their own small business.”
“The Counties greatly appreciates the continued funding from the province to support the Summer Company program. We are inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs by providing them the training, mentors, and incentive to run their own business. This gives them an experience that will broaden their future opportunities and perhaps join the many Summer Company graduates that are now a part of our regional economy,” stated Warden Corinna Smith-Gatcke.
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The Summer Company program is funded by the Government of Ontario in partnership with the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville and the City of Brockville.
Inquiries
Carol Hardy, Small Business Development Officer
613-342-3840 ext. 5367 / carol.hardy@uclg.on.ca
| | Ready to Take Your Business to the Next Level? | | |
Applications are open for Starter Company Plus, designed to help entrepreneurs strengthen their business, build their skills, and plan for growth.
Participants receive practical business training, one-on-one guidance, mentoring, and valuable connections with other local entrepreneurs. Those who successfully advance through the program may also be eligible for a grant of up to $5,000 to invest in their business.
The first step is to join the next Starter Company mandatory information session, where you’ll learn about the program, eligibility requirements, selection process, and what to expect. Register for the September 9th session from 12 - 1 p.m. to get started.
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Price Reduced by $150,000
Rural commercial/industrial property offers opportunity to acquire a well-maintained building on 2+ acres. 2318 Second Concession Road features ample on-site parking, 400-amp electrical service, hydro and gas utilities, and a layout suited to commercial or industrial operations. Conveniently located 1.6 km from Highway 401 and within easy reach of Brockville and the Johnstown border crossing, the property provides excellent regional connectivity. Zoning permits a range of institutional and recreational uses, with potential for commercial or industrial applications.
View map for 2318 Second Concession Road.
| | Rural Ontario Development Cost-Share Fund | | |
Business Development Stream
The Rural Ontario Development (ROD) Program provides cost-share funding to help small rural businesses strengthen their operations, improve competitiveness, and support local economic growth. The program supports projects that address barriers to economic development, build business capacity, attract or retain investment, and support jobs in rural communities.
Eligible businesses can receive 35% of project costs, up to a maximum of $10,000.
General eligibility: Businesses must have 1–20 employees, be operating at the time of application, and be paying agricultural, commercial or industrial property tax either directly or through rent or lease.
Eligible projects may include:
- Market or product diversification, including market research, marketing plans, new marketing materials, or initiatives to enter or expand into new markets
- Cybersecurity, including cybersecurity assessments and improvements to business security measures
- Succession planning, including developing a plan to prepare a business for ownership transition
- Accessibility improvements, such as ramps, automatic door openers, and other accessibility infrastructure
Application deadline is October 1, 2026. Funding is awarded on a first-come-first-served basis.
For more information, visit the program website or email RODprogram@ontario.ca
| | G. Tackaberry Family Home Christmas Market Call for Vendors | | |
Calling on Leeds Grenville vendors, crafters, makers and entrepreneurs, this one's for you! The G. Tackaberry and Family Home would love to have you at their Christmas Market. Interested parties are to contact administration to reserve a vendor spot. Support local, shop local.
Call 613-924-2696 x 6022
or email: mvladminsupport@uclg.on.ca
Vendor deadline September 25.
| | | Workshops, Seminars and Webinar Library | | | | |
Local business are invited to join the Ontario Approved Professionals as they present Insights for Success at the Aquatarium Grand Hall in Brockville. This event brings together business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals for a powerful blend of networking, learning, vendor engagement and meaningful conversation. Hear a full slate of speakers including United Counties of Leeds and Grenville Warden Corinna Smith-Gatcke and Ask Benny Co-founder Jordan Brown.
When: September 10, 3-9:30 p.m.
Where: Aquatarium Grand Hall, Brockville
Cost: $55 - $80
| | Beyond the Building: Creating a Culture of Inclusion Seminar | | |
Whether you're a business owner, designer, or simply passionate about inclusivity, this event is for you. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn and make a positive impact. Join the Leeds and Grenville Accessibility Advisory Committee for this fall event, a day advancing accessibility and inclusion. Together, the focus will be on embedding inclusion in policy, practice, and people. Event highlights are engaging speakers, personal insights from individuals with lived experience and practical tips to enhance accessibility.
Featuring Keynote Speaker: Mike Shoreman
Join mental health and disability educator, professional speaker, and author Mike Shoreman for an insightful session on why true accessibility goes far beyond just meeting regulatory standards. This event will equip you with the tools to make a lasting, positive impact.
Interested in showcasing your organization at our event? Exhibition space is free of charge. Please contact us at 613-342-3840 ext. 2307 or email Andrea.Bolton@uclg.on.ca to request exhibitor information. Include your organization's name and a brief description of what you would like to share.
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When: October 2, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: North Grenville Municipal Centre,
285 Cty Rd. 44, Kemptville
Cost: Free with registration
How to Register:
| | | Sharpen Your Knowledge With Foodpreneur | | The Foodpreneur Advantage Program is a 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. The program provides introductory one-hour expert-led training sessions and industry insights to help navigate getting started or expanding into new product lines. Take as many of these courses as you wish; if you miss one, pick up where you left off in the following round. | | Accessibility in Action: Introduction to AODA Website Compliance | | |
Your website should be welcoming and accessible to everyone, but knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. Join RTO 9 and JBC | Pushing Digital Boundaries for an introductory webinar that breaks down AODA website compliance into practical, easy-to-understand concepts. Learn what accessibility means for your website, explore common compliance mistakes, discover helpful tools, and gain the confidence to build a more inclusive online experience for every visitor.
Discover tools that make compliance easier. Identify and fix common accessibility issues. Leave with practical actions you can apply immediately. Build a website that's accessible, compliant, and welcoming to every visitor.
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Date: September 22
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
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| | United Counties of Leeds and 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 15 edition should be received by September 7.
- Submissions for the September 29 edition should be received by September 21.
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