Invest Prescott Newsletter

Mayor Gauri Shankar hosts "The First 365", a Fireside Panel on business growth with Jason Mullin of Quality Inn Prescott, Darcy Primrose of Voice2Net, and Ashton Mayes of AMayesZing Photography.

Prescott Celebrates Small Business Week

Prescott’s business community came together on October 21 for an evening of insight, collaboration, and celebration at the 2025 Small Business Week Forum—the highlight of this year’s entrepreneurship celebrations presented by Invest Prescott and the Downtown Prescott BIA.

The evening, emceed by Councillor Tracey Young, opened with a fireside-style panel discussion, “The First 365: How Prescott’s Small Businesses Transition, Succeed & Grow,” moderated by Mayor Gauri Shankar. The panel featured three entrepreneurs whose first year in Prescott has been marked by transformation and growth: Jason Mullin of Quality Inn & Suites – SCC Hospitality, Darcy Primrose of Voice2Net, and Ashton Mayes of AMayesZing Photography. Together, they shared candid reflections on the lessons and realities of building or expanding a business—from launching a new hotel to transitioning a long-established tech company into a downtown storefront to creating a full-time creative studio and gallery. Each story underscored the supportive environment Prescott offers for entrepreneurs willing to invest, adapt, and grow.

Jeanette Johnston delivers her keynote, "Unleashing the Unconscious Mind", at the Small Business Week Forum.

That theme of personal and professional growth carried through to the keynote presentation, as Business Mindset Coach and NLP Practitioner Jeanette Johnston spoke about how to overcome negative self-talk and doubt to achieve business success by unleashing the power of the unconscious mind. Johnston’s engaging, practical session challenged entrepreneurs to identify limiting beliefs, strengthen communication, and approach leadership with clarity and confidence. Her insights left attendees inspired to align mindset with strategy in pursuit of long-term success.

Complementing these stories of lived experience and motivation were two focused presentations highlighting Prescott’s continued progress and the data guiding future decision-making. The first showcased a year of achievement—from major projects like the Quality Inn & Suites opening and Wellington Manor redevelopment to the revitalization of the RiverWalk District and ongoing investment through the Community Improvement Plan.

The second turned to Environics Analytics, exploring Prescott’s evolving market profile through leading demographic and lifestyle segmentation tools. Attendees gained insight into the community’s most common and emerging market segments, helping business owners better understand customer trends and local opportunities.

Throughout the evening, the Forum’s business support trade show brought together regional partners including Community Futures Grenville, Leeds Grenville Small Business, CSE Consulting, Ontario Approved Professionals, the South Grenville Chamber of Commerce, and the Downtown Prescott BIA. Entrepreneurs connected with experts on funding, workforce training, marketing, and business development—reinforcing the strong collaborative network that supports small business success across the region.

The evening concluded on a note of optimism, reflecting this year’s BDC Small Business Week theme: “The economic revolution is here – get your business ready.”

Prescott’s small business community continues to demonstrate that growth, innovation, and collaboration are at the heart of its economic future.

The Community Improvement Plan (CIP) Incentive Program continues to be a cornerstone of local revitalization, helping property and business owners reinvest in key areas of the community. Since its launch in 2018, the program has supported 85 projects and leveraged more than $38 million in total investment through a mix of non-repayable grants, 0%-interest loans, and targeted tax incentives.

The CIP encourages improvements in the Downtown Core and RiverWalk District, employment areas, heritage properties, and large-scale residential developments—supporting everything from façade restorations and accessibility upgrades to redevelopment and adaptive reuse projects.

By fostering renewal and reinvestment, the program continues to strengthen Prescott’s economic future and community character.

Property and business owners interested in learning more can visit www.Prescott.ca/CIP or contact the Economic Development and Tourism Department to discuss eligibility and available incentives.

Interested in the CIP Incentive Program? Click here to learn more.

Become a Sponsor of RiverWalk Wonderland

December 5 & 6 | Prescott Pop-Ups, 191 Water Street East

Join us in bringing the magic of the holidays to the waterfront! RiverWalk Wonderland transforms the Prescott Pop-Ups into a sparkling waterfront destination featuring lights, live entertainment, horse-drawn wagon rides, Santa & reindeer, markets, and festive activities that draw visitors from across Eastern Ontario.

Sponsorship opportunities are now open for businesses and organizations looking to align with Prescott’s revitalization and regional tourism growth. As a sponsor, you’ll gain valuable visibility throughout the event weekend and the full holiday display season—on-site, online, and in media promotions.

Learn more and sponsor today:

https://forms.prescott.ca/Ec-Dev-Tourism/2025-RiverWalk-Wonderland-Sponsorship

Spots are limited—secure your place in this year’s celebration and help us make RiverWalk Wonderland shine even brighter!

Join the Prescott BIA Board of Management — Call for Nominations

The Downtown Prescott Business Improvement Area (BIA) is now accepting nominations for its Board of Management. The Board oversees strategic initiatives to energize Prescott’s RiverWalk District.

Candidates must be business owners or commercial property occupants within the BIA Levy Area—membership is automatic for such premises. Board members commit to attending one meeting per month, with additional participation in projects and events strongly encouraged. If you’re invested in downtown revitalization and want to help shape the future of The RiverWalk District’s business community, this is your opportunity to get involved.

If you're interested, view the BIA's fact sheet here and complete the online Nomination Form here.

Parking Advisories

Overnight Parking Prohibited

From November 1 to March 31, no on-street parking is permitted between 12 a.m. and 7 a.m., anywhere in Prescott.

This restriction allows Public Works crews to safely and effectively clear snow from roads and sidewalks. Vehicles parked in violation may be ticketed or towed.

Permit parking is available in designated municipal lots throughout the winter months.

Visit Winter Operations - Town of Prescott for details on locations, rates, and passes.

Daytime Downtown Parking Rules

In addition to the Overnight Winter Parking rules listed above above, King Street has a two-hour parking limit, enforced Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. For longer visits or work shifts, please use municipal lots or side-street parking.

See the map below for more information.

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.

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.

Prescott's Online 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.

River Route Adds New Stops Across South Grenville

The River Route public transit service has expanded! New stops in Maitland, Prescott, Johnstown, Cardinal, and surrounding areas make it even easier for riders to get where they need to go. Whether commuting, attending appointments, or running errands, passengers can enjoy more connections with the same reliable schedule.

View the full list of updated stops and times at riverroute.ca.

Business Feedback Form

We’re inviting all local business owners to share ideas, concerns or suggestions to help shape our economic development and tourism efforts.

Submit your input anytime here.

Kelly Allin, of Prescott's Allin & Associates, accepts the Inclusive Employer Award at Bridges to Better Business.

Bridges to Better Business: Celebrating Local Success and Innovation

The annual Bridges to Better Business event brought together entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community partners from across Leeds and Grenville for an evening of learning, inspiration, and recognition. Hosted by Leeds Grenville Small Business in association with the St. Lawrence–Rideau Immigration Partnership, this year’s event focused on the theme Digital & AI Adoption for the Future and featured engaging presentations from Fraser Hardy and Theo Graham.

The evening also celebrated the achievements of local entrepreneurs, including two standout successes from Prescott. JD Van Allen, of Eden’s Refuge (pictured inset with Darren Gallacher & Katie Nolan, CF Grenville, and fellow graduate Bre Martel-Audet of Edwardsburgh Cardinal's Nature's Hum Clothing), graduated from the Starter Company Plus program, highlighting the strength of Prescott’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Allin & Associates received the Inclusive Employer Award, recognizing the firm’s commitment to accessibility, diversity, and equity in the workplace.

These accomplishments reflect Prescott’s forward-looking business community—one that values innovation, inclusivity, and collaboration as drivers of regional prosperity.

Building Momentum in Prescott

As shared during the Economic Development Update at this year’s Small Business Week Forum, Prescott’s business community continues to grow and thrive, with strong progress across development, tourism, and downtown revitalization. In 2025, the Town’s Economic Development and Tourism Department advanced major projects supporting both entrepreneurs and investors.

This year saw seven new business openings, seven expansions or relocations, and six pending launches. More than 214 small and medium enterprises now make up over 90% of Prescott’s business base. Since 2018, the Community Improvement Plan has supported 85 projects, leveraging over $38 million in investment through $1.2 million in grants and $1.9 million in loans.

Prescott’s new branding and marketing strategy, developed with Alphabet Creative, is now entering implementation, alongside expanded Environics Analytics tools that provide insight into visitor and shopping trends.

Tourism remains a major driver, led by the Prescott Pop-Ups (90% occupancy) and the Rotary Lighthouse Visitor Centre, which welcomed 4,500 visitors in 2025. Waterfront and downtown enhancements—from marina upgrades to new patios, signage, and murals—continue to attract visitors and investment, showcasing Prescott’s growing vibrancy and momentum.

Nominations Open: LG Small Business International Women's Day Business Lifetime Achievement Award

Recognize a woman who has owned and actively operated a Leeds Grenville business for 15+ years and made a lasting impact through their leadership, innovation, and community involvement.

The award will be presented during LG Small Business's International Women’s Day celebration in March.

Deadline: Friday, December 5 at 4:00 p.m.

Submit completed nominations to Carol Hardy, Small Business Development Officer, Leeds Grenville Economic Development Office, 32 Wall Street, Suite 300, Brockville, ON K6V 4R9, or email carol.hardy@uclg.on.ca.

Questions? Call 613-342-3840 ext. 5367.

Nomination Form Available Here

Business Openings & Anniversaries

CSE Consulting/Creative Steps to Employment

191 King Street East

26th Anniversary

November 1

Cozy Clozet

294 King Street West

2nd Anniversary

November 18

Durand Consulting Inc.

290 George Street

31st Anniversary

November 20th

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.

Prescott’s growth story continues to accelerate. According to Environics Analytics, the town’s population has increased by nearly 15% since 2021, reaching an estimated 4,666 residents in 2025 and projected to approach 4,900 by 2033.

Median household income now stands near $90,000, with education and real income levels both expected to rise by 10–18% over the next decade. The community is also becoming increasingly diverse, with more young professionals, families, and newcomers from a range of cultural backgrounds contributing to Prescott’s vitality and local economy.

Prescott welcomed over 457,000 unique visitors in 2024—an 18% year-over-year increase—with 74% originating from South Grenville and Brockville, the town’s primary trade areas, and 26% from other locations. Visitors often explore multiple business districts during their stay, and the average visiting household earns about $120,000, spending actively in dining, recreation, and shopping.

More than one-quarter of Prescott’s year-round visitors now travel from beyond a 35-kilometre radius, with growing numbers from suburban Ottawa and Franco-Ontarian communities. This blend of local loyalty, regional reach, and expanding cultural diversity continues to strengthen Prescott’s business and tourism economy.

These insights were shared as part of the 2025 Small Business Week Forum, highlighting how data can inform marketing, investment, and business planning. Local entrepreneurs can contact Invest Prescott to book a one-on-one session exploring the Environics data most relevant to their business or sector.

Acclaimed Singer-Songwriter Chantal Kreviazuk performs for a full house at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church for Festival of Small Halls on October 11th.

Chantal Kreviazuk Captivates at St. Andrew’s

The historic St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Prescott was filled with music, laughter, and heartfelt connection on October 11th during a sold-out performance by Chantal Kreviazuk, presented through the Ontario Festival of Small Halls.

Kreviazuk’s concert blended soaring vocals, impeccable piano performances, and a trademark mix of humour and honesty that left audiences both moved and inspired. Concert-goers praised her “pure and beautiful” voice and the personal stories she shared between songs, creating an atmosphere that felt as intimate as a living room performance.

The evening also showcased material from her latest album, In My Own Voice—a collection of songs she originally wrote for other artists and has now reimagined in her own style. Highlights included her soulful renditions of Drake’s “Over My Dead Body” and Pitbull and Christina Aguilera’s “Feel This Moment,” offering new depth and artistry to familiar hits.

Audience members described the event as “unforgettable” and “beyond expectations,” reinforcing Prescott’s growing reputation as a destination for great music in small-town venues.

Whisky and Beer: The Spirit of Prescott

Once a brewing and distilling powerhouse, Prescott’s spirited past is now captured in a new publication by the Grenville County Historical Society (GCHS).

Whisky and Beer: The Spirit of Prescott, written by Prescott Museum Curator Fraser Laschinger, explores the town’s colourful early history as a centre for whisky and beer production.

In its heyday, Prescott was home to one of Canada’s largest distilleries—J.P. Wiser’s, then the nation’s third largest—and a bustling waterfront that included Labatt’s Brewery and other notable producers. The book traces this fascinating industrial heritage, painting a vivid portrait of a rough-and-ready era when whisky barrels and beer kegs helped fuel local growth.

Whisky and Beer: The Spirit of Prescott is available for $25 through the Grenville County Historical Society, and will soon be available at the Prescott Museum. Visitors can also explore a companion museum exhibit highlighting Prescott’s brewing and distilling history.

(Photo courtesy of Tom Van Dusen, Grenville County Historical Society)

Call for 2026 Events

Do you have an event planned for 2026 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.

Tourism Industry Events

Destination Discovery: 1000 Islands Rideau Canal Waterways | March 10, 2026 | Online

Tourism operators in Prescott and across the region are invited to join Destination Discovery, an online webinar series hosted by RTO 9 that connects you with the key people and programs supporting tourism development in your destination. This session will feature Regional Development Advisors from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, representatives from the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville – 1000 Islands Rideau Canal Waterways (your local DMO), and the team at RTO 9. Learn who does what, how to collaborate, and why it matters—whether you’re seeking marketing support, funding opportunities, or new partnerships.

Click Here to Register

Tourism Industry Webinars & Training

Marketing Magic: Content in Half the Time – November 27, 2025 | Online

Struggling to keep up with content creation? Learn how to turn ChatGPT into your ultimate marketing assistant in this fast-paced, hands-on webinar from RTO 9. Discover how to generate social posts, emails, blogs, and more—quickly and in your own voice. Join online from 10:00–11:00 AM and start creating smarter, not harder.

Plan It Like You Mean It – December 16, 2025 | Online

Turn ideas into action with the help of ChatGPT in this strategy-focused webinar from RTO 9. Learn how to brainstorm campaigns, map customer journeys, and draft strategic plans—without the sticky notes. This one-hour session will show you how to use AI to think clearly, plan smarter, and stay organized. Join online from 10:00–11:00 AM.

For more information on Tourism programs and events in Prescott, follow #ExplorePrescottON on social media, visit our website, or contact us.

Bold Moves 2: Level Up Your Leadership Impact

1000 Islands Leadership Consulting | Nov 5 |

9:30 AM–3:30 PM | Prescott Golf Club

Sharpen your presence, elevate your voice, and take action that gets you noticed. This one-day interactive workshop helps men and women strengthen their leadership impact with practical strategies to look, talk, and act like a leader. Lunch included.

Learn more and register here

Resilient and Ready

South Grenville Chamber of Commerce | Nov 5 | 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm | RBC Prescott, 302 King Street West, Prescott

The South Grenville Chamber of Commerce and RBC are hosting a special Small Business Week event in Prescott.

The program will feature a fraud prevention presentation designed specifically for small businesses, offering practical strategies to help protect your operations and customers. This is an excellent opportunity to connect with peers, gain valuable insights, and celebrate the vital role small businesses play in our community.

Click here to register

Leeds Grenville Economic Development Summit

Friday, November 21 • 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

North Grenville Municipal Centre, 285 County Road 44, Kemptville

Cost: $58 | Advanced registration required by November 14

The 2025 Leeds Grenville Economic Development Summit returns Friday, November 21, bringing together business, political, and community leaders from across the region for a day of collaboration, insight, and inspiration.

Hosted by the Leeds Grenville Economic Development Office in partnership with MP Michael Barrett, MPP Steve Clark, Community Futures Grenville, Valley Heartland CFDC, and the Eastern Workforce Innovation Board, this year’s theme—Celebrate, Learn & Prepare for the Future—highlights resilience, innovation, and regional growth.

The agenda includes keynote presentations from Hon. Nina Tangri, Ontario’s Associate Minister of Small Business, and Brock Dickinson of Stonebridge Solutions, alongside sessions on electricity planning, cross-border trade, and the Rideau Canal’s future. The event also features a local craft beverage panel and presentation of the Bill Thake Memorial Economic Development Leadership Award.

Registration includes a light breakfast, lunch, and networking opportunities. Learn more and register at invest.leedsgrenville.com/summit2025.

Celebrate the Season with the SG Chamber at Renegadz

It’s almost time to Celebrate the Season! Join business leaders and community partners from across Grenville for an evening of networking, conversation, and holiday spirit at Renegadz Restaurant, Bar & Lounge in Prescott.

Hosted by Community Futures Grenville, the North Grenville Chamber of Commerce, and the South Grenville Chamber of Commerce, this annual gathering brings together local entrepreneurs and professionals to connect, collaborate, and toast another successful year of business in our region.

Light appetizers will be served, and space is limited—so be sure to RSVP by November 20 for the event on Wednesday, November 26 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Learn more or register at https://wix.to/tjWEG4d.

OAP 2025 Small Business Christmas Gala

Friday, November 28 • 5:30 PM • Madison’s by Renegadz – Prescott Golf Club

Celebrate the season with OAP’s Annual Christmas Gala — an evening of dining, entertainment, and networking with business and community leaders. Tickets available until November 7 at 4:00 PM.

Purchase Tickets Here

Free Partner Business Webinars

Webinars are now sorted by Topic and Date. Click on the Register Here link to access the event listing and registration page.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Using AI in Marketing: Create, Brand & Share Like a Pro | Business Advisory Centre Durham (BACD) | November 4 | 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm

Learn how AI can upgrade your messaging across email, chat, and customer touchpoints.

Strategic AI Adoption Framework: From Ideas to Action | Business Advisory Centre Durham (BACD) | November 13 | 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm

Turn AI concepts into a step-by-step adoption plan tailored to your business.

(Chat)GPT for Small Business (Webinar) | Brampton Entrepreneur Centre | November 13 | 10:00 am – 11:00 am

Use ChatGPT to save time, plan smarter, and streamline everyday operations.

AI Software to Support Your Business with Claire Bouvier | Kingston Economic Development Corporation | November 19 | 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm

Discover time-saving AI tools for everyday tasks, content creation, and workflow productivity.

Building the perfect prompt with Claire Bouvier | Kingston Economic Development Corporation | December 3 | 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm

Learn practical strategies to craft effective AI prompts that save time and improve accuracy.

Sales & Marketing

Email Marketing for Small Businesses: Developing A Successful Email Marketing Strategy | Digital Main Street (Toronto Digital Service Squad) | November 4 | 10:00 am – 11:30 am

Learn segmentation, strong subject lines and body copy, basic automations, and tools for effective campaigns.

Branding your business with Rob Wood | Kingston Economic Development Corporation | November 5 | 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm

Frameworks and tactics to build a compelling brand that drives customer loyalty and growth.

Winning SEO with Google Business Profile (Virtual) | Invest Ottawa Education Centre | November 13 | 10:00 am – 11:15 am

Optimize your Google Business Profile to improve visibility, map results, and clicks.

BACD Business Fundamentals: Marketing & Sales | Business Advisory Centre Durham (BACD) | November 13 | 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Build a practical marketing & sales plan—from branding and lead gen to client acquisition.

Social Media for Your Business | Digital Main Street (Toronto Digital Service Squad) | November 25 | 10:00 am – 11:30 am

Choose the right platforms, optimize profiles, and plan/manage content to grow your community.

eCommerce 101: What, Why, and How | Digital Main Street (Toronto Digital Service Squad) | December 2 | 10:00 am – 11:30 am

Launch an online store—platform selection, POS/inventory basics, SEO, payments, shipping, and traffic drivers.

Finance & Taxes

Maximize asset valuation before sale with Judith Pineault | Kingston Economic Development Corporation | November 4 | 8:00 am – 9:30 am

Practical steps to strengthen your financials, present your business, and increase sale value.

Rise’s EmpowerU: Understanding Financing & Credit for Entrepreneurs in Canada | Rise | November 5 | 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm

Get clear on credit types, interest, and financing options so you can fund your business.

Analyzing and Limiting Your Risks with Adam Young | Kingston Economic Development Corporation | November 12 | 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm

Identify, assess, and mitigate financial and operational risks in your business.

Understanding Your Business Insurance with Nicholas Dettinger | Kingston Economic Development Corporation | November 13 | 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm

Get clear on essential coverage and align policies with your company’s risk profile.

Export & Trade

Marketing Strategies in Diverse Export Markets | City of Toronto Economic Development & Culture | November 6 | 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Explore practical ways to reach and grow audiences across global markets.

Knowing Global Exporting Regulations with Arman Giloyan | Kingston Economic Development Corporation | November 26 | 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm

Get the essentials of export regulations and documentation to enter new markets confidently.

HR / Operations / Admin

Contract Essentials for Business Owners with Zoe Umukoro & Tony Virgin | Kingston Economic Development Corporation | November 18 | 8:00 am – 9:30 am

Practical contract fundamentals—partnership, employment, and supplier agreements—to protect your business.

Managing Your Business AND Your Mental Health | Rise | November 26 | 10:00 am – 11:30 am

Learn strategies and tools to protect your mental wellness while running a business.

Start-Up Basics

Web Presence 101 – Ensuring Your Foundation is Set | Digital Main Street (Toronto Digital Service Squad) | November 18 | 10:00 am – 11:30 am

Website fundamentals, SEO, Google Business Profile, directories, social, email, and a cohesive brand voice.

Business Planning Launchpad Series

The Business Planning Launchpad Series is a four-part program from the City of Vaughan designed to help entrepreneurs build strong foundations in ideation, sales and marketing, operations, and financial management. Each 90-minute session offers practical tools and strategies to strengthen business plans and support long-term growth.

Business Planning Launchpad (1 of 4): Ideation & Market Research | City of Vaughan, Small Business & Entrepreneurship | November 4 | 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm

Validate your idea and sharpen vision, mission, and market research to test assumptions.

Business Planning Launchpad (2 of 4): Sales & Marketing | City of Vaughan, Small Business & Entrepreneurship | November 11 | 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm

Strengthen your go-to-market plan and boost customer acquisition.

Business Planning Launchpad (3 of 4): Operations, Time & Risk | City of Vaughan, Small Business & Entrepreneurship | November 18 | 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm

Improve day-to-day operations with time and risk management tools you can apply immediately.

Foodpreneur Advantage

Food and beverage entrepreneurs can access the Foodpreneur Advantage, a free program designed to support food sector businesses at any stage.

Participants gain insight into running a successful food business, including topics such as regulations, pricing, branding, packaging, labelling, and selling to retailers.

Learn More and Register Today

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, vis it their website here.

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.

This Month at CSE Consulting

Did You Know… CSE Consulting offers a wide range of practical workshops—from resume & cover-letter writing, interview techniques, and creative job search strategies, to soft skills like communication, teamwork, and professionalism. Whether you’re a job seeker looking to gain advantage in today’s market, a student entering the workforce, or someone aiming to boost workplace performance, there’s something for you.

Click here to check out their virtual or in-person options in Prescott or Kemptville and get started sharpening your skills.

Visit CSE Consulting's Online Calendar to find upcoming Employer and Job Seeker Training and Events by Clicking Here

Do you have an upcoming Business Event or Workshop you would like included in our newsletter? Contact us, we would love to include it!

Submit Event

Regional Tariff Response Initiative

The Government of Canada has launched the Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) adapt to global trade disruptions and safeguard Canadian jobs, industries, and supply chains. The program supports businesses impacted by tariffs, particularly those connected to U.S. and China markets, by providing tools to boost productivity, cut costs, strengthen supply chains, and diversify into new markets.

Eligible businesses may access either repayable financial support ranging from $125,000 to $10 million, or non-repayable contributions of under $100,000 for smaller projects. To qualify, companies must be incorporated in Canada or Ontario for at least three years, employ between 5 and 499 people in southern Ontario, and demonstrate direct impact from tariffs or related trade disruptions.

The RTRI funds projects running between March 2025 and March 2028 that enhance competitiveness, build resilient domestic supply chains, and prepare businesses for future trade challenges. Additional support is also available for the steel and automotive sectors.

For full details, including eligibility requirements and application materials, visit the RTRI program website.

Digitalization Competence Centre Supports Ontario SMEs

Ontario businesses are navigating a rapidly changing digital economy, and support is available through the province’s Digitalization Competence Centre (DCC), delivered by the Ontario Centre of Innovation. The DCC helps small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) adopt new technologies to improve efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness.

Three program streams are currently available:

Digital Modernization & Adoption Plan (DMAP) – Up to $15,000 to work with a consultant on a tailored digital strategy. For SMEs with 1–499 employees.
Technology Demonstration Project (TDP) – Up to $100,000 to implement solutions identified in a DMAP. For SMEs with $500K+ in annual revenue in at least one of the last three years.
Retail Modernization Project Grant (RMPG) – Up to $5,000 to support digital adoption such as point-of-sale systems or e-commerce tools. For storefront businesses with 1–50 employees, $100K+ annual revenue, and at least one year in operation.

Since its launch in 2022, the DCC has supported more than 150 SMEs across Ontario, generating projected outcomes of over 1,700 new jobs and nearly $400M in revenues.

Learn more: Digitalization Competence Centre

Digital Lead Generators (DLG) Program

Launch Lab’s Digital Lead Generators (DLG) program helps businesses across Eastern Ontario strengthen their online presence, attract new customers, and convert leads into sales.

From digital advertising and SEO to social media management, copywriting, and even Shopify integration, the program pairs you with experts who can deliver real results for your business.

Don’t miss the chance to boost your digital growth—learn more and apply today at launchlab.ca.

Fueling the Next Generation of Canadian Entrepreneurs

Futurpreneur’s Core Startup Program provides equity-free loans of up to $75,000, along with two years of dedicated mentorship to guide young founders from business plan to launch. Open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents aged 18–39, the program helps entrepreneurs build skills, access planning tools, and connect with a national network of advisors and peers to scale their ventures with confidence.

Learn More

Business Funding Programs

The Ontario Together Trade Fund (OTTF) offers up to $5 million for Ontario SMEs to counter U.S. trade disruptions through market expansion, reshoring, and capacity building.

Projects must invest at least $200,000, create or retain jobs, and finish within two years. Apply anytime via Transfer Payment Ontario after completing the self-assessment and consulting an Ontario Advisor.

Learn More

The Eastern Ontario Development Fund provides financial support for business and community projects that grow companies, create jobs, and boost regional economic impact. Eligible businesses and organizations in eastern Ontario can access funding for investments in growth, productivity, innovation, skills, and market expansion. Applications are submitted through Transfer Payment Ontario following a self-assessment and consultation with a regional advisor.

Learn More

The Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP) is a $3.5 billion, five-year federal–provincial–territorial agreement offering cost-share funding to strengthen Ontario’s agriculture, agri-food, and agri-based products sector. Programs support competitiveness, innovation, resilience, and climate adaptation, with opportunities for producers, processors, and organizations. Application details are available through the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.

Learn More

FedDev Ontario is now accepting applications from Southern Ontario businesses and organizations, offering repayable contributions from $125,000 to $10 million for up to 50% of eligible costs on growth, innovation, and clean-tech projects.

With nearly $160 million in new funding available, including targeted support for steel and automotive firms, these programs provide critical resources to scale operations, diversify markets, and strengthen competitiveness.

Learn More

Non-Profit Funding Programs

The Ontario Trillium Foundation’s Grow Grant offers $100,000 to $600,000 over 2–3 years to help established community programs in sectors like arts, culture, environment, recreation, and social services expand, improve, or adapt. The next application window is open from October 8 to November 5, 2025, at 5 p.m. ET, through the Granting Portal.

Learn More

The Ontario Arts Council (OAC) offers project and operating grants to support Ontario artists, arts groups, and organizations across disciplines like visual arts, music, theatre, and literature. Funding supports creation, engagement, touring, and professional development, with discipline-specific deadlines such as May 1 and November 5, 2025.

Learn More

The Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund (OCAF) provides upfront, partially repayable loans to non-profit, Indigenous, heritage, and municipal organizations to launch or significantly expand cultural events that drive tourism, increase revenue, and create jobs. Funding is awarded through a two-stage application process, starting with an initial proposal followed by a full business case, with repayment terms based on event-generated revenue.

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Ontario Creates is an agency of the Ontario government that acts as the central catalyst for economic development, investment, and collaboration within the province’s cultural media sectors—including book and magazine publishing, film and television, interactive digital media, and music. It provides financial, strategic, and research support, administers tax credits, and delivers programs such as the Industry Development Program and AcceleratiON to grow business capacity, audience development, and inclusion.

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Ongoing Funding Sources

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.

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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.

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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.

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