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New Tariff Information Resource Page Now Available for Prescott Businesses
The Town of Prescott has launched a dedicated Tariff Information Resource Page to help businesses navigate the impacts of newly implemented trade tariffs. As of March 4, 2025, the United States has imposed a 25% tariff on all Canadian goods, prompting Canada to respond with retaliatory tariffs on $155 billion worth of American products. These changes may significantly affect businesses that rely on cross-border trade.
What You’ll Find on the Resource Page
Our comprehensive Tariff Information Resource Page provides businesses with up-to-date information, including:
- Government of Canada Tariff Updates – Stay informed on Canada’s response and available relief measures.
- Local & Regional Business Support – Get expert guidance from Prescott Economic Development, Community Futures Grenville, and Leeds Grenville Small Business Support.
- Funding & Financial Assistance – Learn about financial aid programs such as the BDC Pivot to Grow Loan and the EDC Trade Impact Program.
- Prescott Business & Market Data Assistance – Access valuable insights on emerging markets and regional business opportunities.
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Expanded Federal Work-Share Program – Discover workforce support options for businesses adjusting to tariff-related challenges.
Stay Informed & Get Support
Prescott businesses can now access all tariff-related resources in one place. Visit the Tariff Information Resource Page to explore available programs, supports, and the latest policy updates.
For more details, contact Prescott Economic Development at dvalentyne@prescott.ca or visit our website. Follow Invest Prescott on Facebook and the Town of Prescott on LinkedIn for real-time updates.
We’re here to support Prescott’s business community through these economic changes.
Click here to visit the resource page.
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CF Grenville Business Tariff Impact Survey
CF Grenville is conducting a survey to understand how recent tariffs are impacting local businesses. This is a valuable opportunity for businesses in the area to share their experiences and challenges related to trade tariffs.
We encourage all local business owners to participate in this survey. Your input will help shape a more supportive business environment and ensure that your voice is heard.
For more details and to participate, visit Community Futures Grenville - Business Impacts of US Tariffs.
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New Resource for Small Businesses: Shop Main Street Canada Toolkit
The Ontario Business Improvement Area Association (OBIAA) has launched the Shop Main Street Canada Toolkit, a valuable new resource to help small businesses boost their online presence and attract more customers.
This free, easy-to-use toolkit provides businesses with customizable marketing materials, practical tips for digital engagement, and strategies to enhance both in-store and online sales. Designed specifically for businesses in downtown and main street districts, the toolkit supports local economic growth by encouraging shoppers to explore and invest in their communities.
Businesses in Prescott are encouraged to take advantage of this resource to strengthen their visibility and customer engagement. Learn more and access the toolkit here.
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The Community Improvement Plan (CIP) Incentive Program helps support employment-oriented retrofits and local revitalization in the Town of Prescott by providing financial incentives for downtown revitalization, employment lands, heritage properties, brownfield projects, and housing developments.
The Program can also play a crucial role in helping businesses manage project costs during the periods of economic uncertainty. The program provides non-repayable grants, 0% interest loans, and tax incentives, making it easier for businesses and private property owners to continue their investments in our community despite the economic pressure from tariffs.
The Town of Prescott is currently accepting 2025 Applications!
Interested in the CIP Incentive Program? Click here to learn more.
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Changes to Prescott's Curbside Recycling Program
Starting January 1st, new provincial legislation excludes the collection of recycling products from industrial, commercial, or institutional properties as part of free weekly collection.
Read More
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Downtown Parking Advisory
Visiting or working in Downtown Prescott? Remember that there's an enforced two hour parking limit along King Street Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 6 pm. As well, overnight street parking (12 am to 7 am) is prohibited in Prescott from November 1st until March 31st.
Read More
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Sign Permit Requirements and Associated Design Guidelines for Downtown
Prescott’s Downtown & RiverWalk District Sign Design Guidelines help businesses create high-quality signage that enhances the community's visual appeal.
A sign permit is required before installing or updating any signage.
Read More
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Add Your Business to Prescott's Business Directory
Is your brick-and-mortar or home-based business located within the Town of Prescott? You can be listed on our online Business Directory!
Interested in being added? Complete our Business Registration Form.
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Quality Inn & Suites Prescott Now Open
Prescott’s tourism and hospitality sector has taken a significant step forward with the opening of Quality Inn & Suites Prescott. This new hotel addresses a longstanding need for additional accommodations, allowing visitors to stay longer and experience more of what Prescott has to offer.
Located along a key transportation corridor, the hotel is well-positioned to serve both leisure and business travelers. With growing interest in Prescott as a destination—thanks to attractions like Fort Wellington, Prescott Golf Club, the St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival, and major sporting events like the Leo Boivin Showcase—the addition of Quality Inn & Suites strengthens the local economy by increasing visitor spending and supporting local businesses.
Beyond tourism, the hotel plays a role in Prescott’s broader economic development strategy. It enhances the town’s ability to attract conferences, tournaments, and corporate travelers, while also contributing to job creation and investment in the community.
Click Here to visit their website to learn more.
| | Business Openings & Anniversaries | | |
Prescott Sub Shop
4th Anniversary
March 1
CarQuest Prescott
34th Anniversary
March 4
Little Barcelona
2nd Anniversary
March 14
Lightwork Spa
Grand Opening
March 22, 12 pm
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Dragon Garden
42nd Anniversary
April 3
Subway Prescott
2nd Anniversary
April 3rd
Kriska Transportation
47th Anniversary
April 10
| | You can stay up-to-date on upcoming business anniversaries and grand openings, and see photos and livestreams of our business ribbon cuttings and celebrations, by following Invest Prescott on Facebook and Instagram. | | |
Calling All Makers & Artisans: Outdoor Market at the Prescott Home & Trade Show
The Prescott Home & Trade Show is hosting an Outdoor Makers Market on Saturday, April 20 at the Leo Boivin Community Centre. This is an excellent opportunity for local artisans, crafters, and small-batch producers to showcase and sell their work to a broad audience.
The market will run as part of the Home & Trade Show’s Saturday programming, drawing visitors interested in home improvement, local businesses, and unique handmade goods.
Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, April 20, 2024
- Location: Leo Boivin Community Centre, Prescott
- Cost: $25 per vendor
- Hosted by: Prescott Home & Trade Show
Vendor spots are limited. For more details or to register, please visit OAP Events.
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Stand Out with Custom Signage at the ACCC!
Are you ready to take your marketing to the next level? Join us for a unique opportunity to showcase your brand in front of thousands at the Alaine Chartrand Community Centre!
With high-visibility ad placements, you'll connect with an engaged audience and boost your brand's presence like never before.
For more information, contact Dana Valentyne at dvalentyne@prescott.ca and view available options here.
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Calling all businesses! Join the fun and become a public skating sponsor!
Boost your brand while supporting a fun community activity!
Sponsoring a public skate starts at $128.75/hour and includes your logo at the rink, lobby, and on 4 TVs around the track, plus promotion on our Recreation social media. You can also set up a table in the lobby during your sponsorship.
Contact bookings@prescott.ca to learn more!
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Be a Hero: Sponsor the 2025 Fort Town Night Run
The Fort Town Night Run returns on May 3, 2025, at Fort Wellington National Historic Site, and your business can be part of this exciting event. Organized by the South Grenville Chamber of Commerce, this Athletics Ontario-sanctioned race draws hundreds of participants and spectators, offering a great opportunity to showcase your brand while supporting the community.
Sponsorship Opportunities:
- Aquaman Sponsorship – $250: Water station branding, social media presence, media mention.
- The Flash Sponsorship – $500: Logo on kilometer markers, social media presence, media mention.
- Batman Safety Sponsorship – $1,000: Logo on event shirts, safety station branding, media promotion.
- Spiderman Sponsorship – $2,500: Headline logo placement on event shirts, finish line branding, top-tier advertising.
- Swag Bag Donations: Provide 250 items for participant gift bags.
Sponsoring this event provides visibility for your business while helping make this annual run a success. Sponsorships are limited, so secure your spot today.
For more details, visit www.forttownnightrun.com or email info@southgrenvillechamber.ca.
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Support an Unforgettable Canada Day Event in Prescott!
Join us in making a splash this Canada Day weekend! Canine Watersports Canada is celebrating its 10th anniversary with an exciting four-day event on Prescott’s waterfront from June 28 to July 1. Spectators from across Ontario and Quebec will gather to watch high-flying canine athletes in this thrilling outdoor competition.
Sponsorship opportunities offer businesses prime visibility through on-site banners, social media promotion, MC announcements, and more. Align your brand with a unique, family-friendly event that supports local tourism and small businesses.
Secure your sponsorship today! Contact Karen Larocque at larocque5@sympatico.ca.
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Team Ontario Sr. Women's Football Development Camp coming to Prescott
We are thrilled to be welcoming Football Ontario’s Team Ontario Sr. Women’s Development Camp to South Grenville District High School in Prescott on May 24-25, 2025! This exciting event will bring 75+ players and coaches to our community for a weekend of elite football training, community engagement, and a controlled scrimmage on Sunday afternoon.
To help make this event a success, Football Ontario is inviting local businesses and organizations to show their support through sponsorship. This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your business to visiting athletes, coaches, and their families while strengthening Prescott’s reputation as a welcoming and vibrant sports destination.
Potential Sponsorship Opportunities:
Meal Vouchers or Discounts – Provide special offers for players and coaches at your restaurant on May 24-25 or help us arrange on-site meal vendors for attendees.
Swag Bag Contributions – Feature your business by including branded merchandise, giveaways, or gift certificates in the official Team Ontario Player Package.
Financial Sponsorship – Support essential event costs, such as athletic therapy, photography, and coach travel stipends, to help provide the best experience for the athletes.
Interested in sponsoring? Contact Emily Todd at etodd@footballontario.net.
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Support Local Youth: Sponsorship Opportunities in Prescott
Make a difference in our community by sponsoring one of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Leeds & Grenville’s exciting events in Prescott! Your support will help provide mentorship opportunities for local youth while giving your business valuable exposure.
3M Golf for Kids’ Sake – May 16, 2025 at Prescott Golf Club
Hole sponsorships, meal sponsorships, and corporate sponsorships available—perfect for showcasing your business while enjoying a great day on the course.
Prescott Ribfest & Sportsman Show – June 13-15, 2025
Sponsorships include the Kids Zone, Stage, and Community Champion levels, offering brand visibility, social media recognition, and the chance to connect with thousands of attendees.
Learn More
| | Milaim Cengu, owner of MD Signs & Graphics, installs new wayfinding signage at the corner of Edward Street and Prescott Centre Drive. | | New Wayfinding Signage and Placemaking Initiatives Improve Navigation and Vibrancy | | |
If you've driven around Prescott recently, you've likely noticed the Town's newly installed wayfinding and directional signage. These eye-catching signs aren’t just a visual enhancement—they’re a key part of Prescott’s strategy to improve navigation, highlight local businesses and attractions, and create a more welcoming experience for visitors.
A project of this scale requires expert craftsmanship and local expertise, and MD Signs & Graphics, based in Prescott’s Industrial Park, has played a crucial role in bringing it to life. Their team managed the printing and installation of all new directional signage, ensuring high-quality execution that reflects Prescott’s unique character and charm. Thanks to their work, visitors can now find key landmarks, businesses, and recreational spaces more easily, helping to boost local tourism and commerce.
Beyond directional signage, Prescott’s wayfinding and placemaking strategy includes new initiatives designed to enhance the visitor experience. A key addition is a downtown business directory, which will serve as an accessible and comprehensive guide to shops, restaurants, and services in the core. By making it easier for residents and visitors to explore local businesses, this initiative aims to strengthen connections between customers and merchants, encourage longer visits, and boost economic activity in the downtown district.
Another major enhancement is the installation of a large-scale interactive mural, designed to transform a key public space. To be located with the new downtown business directory at the former King Street entrance to the Clock Tower parking lot, this creative placemaking project will replace standard concrete barriers with an engaging and visually dynamic feature, adding character to the streetscape while reinforcing Prescott’s commitment to a welcoming and vibrant downtown.
The Town’s wayfinding and placemaking projects have been made possible, in part, through support from the My Main Street Community Activator program. This funding has helped enhance public spaces, improve visitor experiences, and strengthen connections between businesses and customers—all while partnering with outstanding local businesses like MD Signs & Graphics to bring these initiatives to life.
Prescott’s ongoing investment in wayfinding and placemaking is more than just an infrastructure upgrade; it’s a commitment to fostering a more accessible, navigable, and thriving community. And with local expertise from businesses like MD Signs & Graphics, these enhancements are ensuring Prescott remains a dynamic destination for residents, visitors, and entrepreneurs alike.
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2025 Sunday Night Concert Series Returns to Prescott
Live music is back this summer with the Sunday Night Concert Series at Kinsmen Amphitheatre, running June 22 to August 31.
With a mix of rock, country, standards, and more, this free concert series is a must-see summer tradition. In case of rain, performances will move to the Leo Boivin Community Centre.
This year’s lineup features Sun Dried Flies, Healy & Orr, and Cajon & The Hollow Bodies among other talented acts. Sun Dried Flies (June 29) bring an indie-rock edge, Healy & Orr (July 27) deliver a mix of rock, blues, and folk, while Cajon & The Hollow Bodies (August 31) wrap up the season with their signature acoustic sound.
Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy live music along the waterfront.
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Join the Prescott Farmers' & Crafters' Market This Season
The Prescott Farmers' & Crafters' Market is gearing up for another exciting season in a new location at Prescott Pop-Ups. Running every Saturday from Victoria Day Weekend to Thanksgiving, the market offers a prime opportunity for local vendors to connect with a dedicated customer base along the waterfront.
We are currently seeking farmers, artisans, food producers, and mobile food vendors to join us for the 2025 season. Whether you grow fresh produce, craft unique handmade goods, or create specialty food and beverages, the market provides a vibrant, high-traffic setting to showcase your products.
With strong community support, special event tie-ins, and affordable vendor fees, the Prescott Farmers' & Crafters' Market is the ideal place to reach new customers and grow your business.
Vendor applications are now open. To apply, click here.
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Calling All Short-Term Vendors: Join the Prescott Pop-Ups This Season!
Are you an entrepreneur, artisan, or food vendor looking for a prime opportunity to showcase your business? The Prescott Pop-Ups are now accepting applications for short-term vendors, with flexible rental options available for single-week or month-long rotations throughout the season.
Located along the beautiful waterfront, the Prescott Pop-Ups provide a high-traffic destination for visitors and locals alike. Vendors have the opportunity to participate in a vibrant marketplace, benefiting from existing foot traffic and town-wide promotions.
Whether you are launching a new business, testing a product, or looking to expand your reach, the Prescott Pop-Ups offer a low-risk, high-reward opportunity to engage with the community and drive sales.
Apply Today Applications are open now for the upcoming season. The recruitment campaign will run for two weeks, so act quickly to secure your spot.
For more information and to apply, visit the Prescott Pop-Ups Vendor Information Page.
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Help Strengthen Ontario’s Tourism Workforce – Share Your Insights!
We’re sharing an important opportunity from RTO 9, in partnership with OTEC, to support workforce development in Ontario’s tourism and hospitality sector.
Businesses across the industry face challenges in hiring, training, and retaining staff. This survey aims to gather valuable insights to inform evidence-based strategies that drive meaningful change.
If you work in tourism, hospitality, employment services, education, or other support sectors, your input is essential!
Click here to take the survey today and help shape initiatives that strengthen Ontario’s tourism workforce.
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Call for 2025 Events
Do you have an event planned for 2025 in Prescott? Whether it's a festival, concert, tournament, outdoor activity, or community celebration, we want to help you share it with visitors and residents alike!
Let us help you promote your event, attract tourists, and highlight all the incredible experiences Prescott has to offer. By submitting your event, you'll have access to our marketing tools, social media platforms, and more.
To tell us about your event, contact us at dvalentyne@prescott.ca.
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Promote Your Events with Visit1000Islands.com
Hosting an event? Get more visibility by submitting it to the new Thousand Islands International Tourism Events Calendar at Events | Visit 1000 Islands.
For maximum exposure, submit your event early. Events listed on Eventbrite and other Google-indexed platforms will be automatically aggregated!
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Shakespeare Kindred Spirits Cocktail Party
The St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival invites you to the Kindred Spirits Cocktail Party on May 2nd at 6:30 p.m. at Renegadz Restaurant & Bar Lounge in Prescott.
This exciting event will feature live music, fun games, delicious hors d'oeuvres, and an exclusive preview of the 2025 season. Hosted by co-artistic directors James and Julia, it’s a wonderful opportunity to support the festival while enjoying great company.
Tickets are $45 per person, which includes hors d'oeuvres, and a cash bar will be available. Don’t miss this memorable evening!
Get your tickets here.
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Fort Town Night Run Returns May 3, 2025!
The Fort Town Night Run is back on May 3, 2025, now organized by the South Grenville Chamber of Commerce! This Athletics Ontario-sanctioned event offers 5K, 10K, and 15K routes through Prescott’s historic streets.
Enjoy a scenic night run featuring local landmarks, interactive maps, and a vibrant race atmosphere. Proceeds support community initiatives, with over 100 volunteers making the event possible.
Race kit pick-up runs from 1 PM to 8 PM, with festivities starting at 6 PM. Register now at forttownnightrun.com!
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Branding & Marketing Strategy Survey Now Closed – Thank You for Your Input!
The Town of Prescott is taking important steps to refresh our brand and marketing strategy to better reflect our community’s identity, strengths, and aspirations. To ensure this initiative captures the voices of our residents, business owners, visitors, and community stakeholders, we recently conducted a public survey.
Thank you to everyone who took the time to share your thoughts and insights! Your input will help shape how Prescott is represented and promoted in the future. Stay tuned for updates as we move forward with this exciting initiative.
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Set Sail for Less at Sandra S. Lawn Harbour & Marina
Prescott's Sandra S. Lawn Harbour & Marina offers an affordable, premier boating experience. Dockage for boats up to 19 feet is available for just $850 for the season, ideal for those seeking to enjoy the St. Lawrence River.
With 128 slips, the marina provides seasonal, monthly, weekly, and daily dockage options, known for its excellent service, friendly staff, and reputation as "The Jewel of the St. Lawrence." Opening for the season on Victoria Day weekend, it attracts returning boaters to its prime location in the picturesque riverfront community.
For more information, visit Prescott.ca/Marina or email marina@prescott.ca
| | Tourism Industry Funding Opportunity | |
2025-26 Partnership Fund Program
RTO 9’s Partnership Fund collaborates with tourism partners to strengthen and diversify the region’s tourism offerings. This program focuses on building or introducing new tourism products that enhance visitor experiences. The Partnership Fund is not a grant; applicants must contribute 50% of the project’s eligible costs.
Eligibility: For-profit tourism businesses seeking to increase visitation to South Eastern Ontario are eligible. Businesses must be committed to understanding how their project aligns with regional tourism goals and contribute to growing the local visitor economy.
Funding Window: Applications are open until March 31st, 2025.
For more information, click here, or register for an Information Session.
| | For more information on Tourism programs and events in Prescott, follow #ExplorePrescottON on social media, visit our website, or contact us. | | |
Downtown Prescott Celebrates Women in Business for International Women’s Day 2025
Downtown Prescott proudly celebrated International Women’s Day (IWD) with a contest inviting customers to nominate a Downtown Woman in Business who embodies the 2025 theme of ‘Accelerate Action.’ The response was overwhelming, with inspiring stories of local women entrepreneurs’ dedication, leadership, and passion.
Congratulations to Sherry Desnoyers of Olde Magick, randomly selected to attend the Leeds Grenville IWD 2025 gala on March 6! Nominations praised her commitment to Prescott, her willingness to support local businesses, and her deep knowledge of her craft. As one nominator shared, “Sherry is very involved in the community, participating in events and supporting other businesses. She truly accelerates action by fostering connections and promoting Prescott’s downtown.”
Other outstanding nominees included Laci Temple of Laural & Lace Floral, Cindy Casselman of Cozy Clozet, Leslie Bottigoni of Lemar on Main, Ashton Mayes of AMayeszing Photography, Sarah Cardinal of O'Heaphy's Irish Pub, Christa Johnson of Star Wellness, Nicole & Carla Hudson of Katarina’s Coffee Shop, Dawn Tutecky-McDougall of Once@426, and many more. Their contributions help shape Prescott’s vibrant business community.
One nominator described Cindy’s warm and welcoming nature: “Cindy welcomes you to her shop in a friendly, upbeat way, giving residents the opportunity to shop locally while making every visit feel special.” Another highlighted Laci’s positivity: “Her wonderful personality, smiling face, and ability to brighten everyone’s day make her a true role model.”
Sarah’s nomination also stood out, with her nominator sharing: “With a compassionate heart, she mentors and supports younger women, fostering growth and empowerment. Her unwavering dedication to her employees is truly inspiring.”
These incredible women truly embody Accelerate Action, offering unique products, services, and unwavering community support. Their dedication is a testament to the strength and resilience of Prescott’s business community.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated by submitting nominations and sharing stories. Let’s continue to celebrate and support the amazing women entrepreneurs who make Prescott’s downtown a thriving and welcoming place!
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Free online small business courses for Ontario entrepreneurs!
Small Business Centres Ontario offers a free e-learning series for entrepreneurs, with courses focused on every stage of business from concept to growth.
Always available, these courses offer an opportunity to gain new insight at your own pace, when time allows.
To Learn More, visit their website here.
| | This Month at CSE Consulting | | Do you have an upcoming Business Event or Workshop you would like included in our newsletter? Contact us, we would love to include it! | | |
Eastern Ontario Development Fund (EODF) - Application Period Now Open
The Eastern Ontario Development Fund (EODF) is now accepting applications for businesses in the industrial and manufacturing sectors. The application period is open from March 19th to May 21st, 2025, with funding decisions expected by August 14th, 2025.
The EODF is available to support businesses considering large capital investment projects, providing financial assistance to help offset some of the associated costs.
For more information on eligibility and to apply, please visit the official EODF page: Eastern Ontario Development Fund.
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Expand Your Business Internationally with CanExport SMEs
Are you a local business looking to expand into new international markets? The CanExport SMEs program provides funding to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) grow their global reach.
This program offers up to $50,000 in funding to cover up to 50 percent of eligible costs for export marketing activities, including:
- Market research and business intelligence
- Participation in international trade shows and missions
- Digital marketing and e-commerce expansion
- Intellectual property protection
- Development of new partnerships abroad
With a focus on diversification, CanExport SMEs supports businesses seeking to enter markets where they have minimal or no sales, helping to reduce financial barriers to international trade.
Prescott-based businesses looking to scale globally can take advantage of this opportunity to explore new customers, distribution channels, and investment partnerships.
Learn more and apply: CanExport SMEs Program
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Community Futures Grenville is a community-based not-for-profit funded by the Federal Government to provide business loans and advice in Grenville County, including Prescott.
Learn More.
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The Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) is a Crown Corporation that offers loans, capital investments, and advice to Canada's Small- and Medium- Sized Businesses.
Learn More.
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Export Development Canada (EDC) is a Crown Corporation offering advice, financial solutions, equity, insurance, and connections for export-oriented businesses to help them navigate foreign markets.
Learn More.
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Business Benefits Finder
The Government of Canada's Business Benefits Finder can help you find loan, grant, and other government-funded opportunities for your business.
Search the Benefits Finder
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Town of Prescott Economic Development
CONNECT WITH US
| | Town of Prescott Economic Development & Tourism Department Staff | | | | |
