Save the Date: 2025 Prescott Small Business Week Forum | |
Prescott’s signature Small Business Week Forum returns this fall, bringing together local entrepreneurs, business owners, and community partners for an evening of learning, networking, and support.
Join us on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, from 5:00–8:00 p.m. for this year’s forum. The event will feature a dynamic program including:
- A Fireside Chat with Mayor Gauri Shankar, highlighting Prescott’s economic development successes over the past year and celebrating the community’s growth, investment, and new opportunities on the horizon for 2026.
- Presentations from local and regional support organizations, showcasing the programs, financing, and services available to help businesses start, grow, and succeed.
- A featured speaker and keynote topic to be announced soon, offering fresh insight and inspiration for entrepreneurs.
Building on the success of last year’s forum—which provided practical takeaways on visual merchandising, business financing, and regulatory compliance—this year’s edition will once again deliver valuable information and real-world advice, while celebrating the momentum of Prescott’s business community.
Light refreshments will be provided, and the evening will include time for networking with peers and partners.
Registration is now open—please click here to RSVP.
Mark your calendars for this important part of Small Business Week in Prescott. We look forward to welcoming you for an evening of ideas, connections, and community celebration.
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Downtown Connections: A Small Business Week Event
Wednesday, October 22 | 6:00–8:00 p.m.
Location to be announced
Light refreshments provided
Join the Downtown Prescott BIA for an evening designed to bring our downtown business community together during Small Business Week. This two-hour event blends networking, learning, and leadership opportunities in one welcoming space.
We’ll kick off with informal networking over light bites from downtown eateries. Then, short presentations will cover what the BIA is and how it works and why it matters to Prescott’s downtown. Current BIA Board members will be available for conversations about board roles and responsibilities.
To round out the evening, a practical learning session will focus on a timely topic for downtown businesses—such as signage, storefront visibility, or façade improvements—followed by Q&A.
Whether you’re a long-time downtown business owner or new to the community, this is your chance to connect, learn, and help shape the future of Downtown Prescott.
Click Here to Register
| | BDC Small Business Week 2025 | | |
Prescott’s Small Business Week activities are part of a national celebration of entrepreneurship led by the Business Development Bank of Canada. From October 19–25, BDC Small Business Week will shine a spotlight on the theme The economic revolution is here – get your business ready, recognizing how technology, trade, and demographic shifts are transforming the economy.
The week begins with BDC Chief Economist Pierre Cléroux setting the stage for a full lineup of events across the country, offered in both English and French. From scaling and innovation to sessions supporting women entrepreneurs, Small Business Week brings together insights and resources to help businesses adapt and thrive.
Learn more at https://www.bdc.ca/en/small-business-week
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BDC Kick-off Event
BDC Small Business Week begins with a national webinar, Get Your Business Ready for the Economic Revolution, hosted by BDC Chief Economist Pierre Cléroux.
This online session will explore the major trends currently shaping the business landscape — from new technologies to shifting trade patterns and generational change — and what they mean for small business owners.
The presentation will offer practical insights and advice to help entrepreneurs prepare for change and position their businesses for success.
Learn more and register here.
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The Canadian Chamber of Commerce is hosting Breaking Barriers, Building Businesses on Tuesday, October 21, from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m.
This virtual session will highlight how immigrant and women entrepreneurs are shaping Canada’s economy, featuring new research, real-world success stories, and a panel discussion on breaking down barriers to growth.
Learn More.
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StrikeUP Canada presents Feeling Stuck? Signs Your Business Needs a Reset and What To Do About It on Tuesday, October 21, from 12:00 to 12:45 p.m.
Led by BDC’s Siobhan McManus, this online session will help entrepreneurs recognize stagnation, rethink strategy, and explore practical tools for relaunching with confidence.
Learn More.
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BDC and Futurpreneur present Startup to Succession: Thriving in Canada’s Entrepreneurial Revolution on Wednesday, October 22, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.
This interactive panel will explore how shifting global forces, AI adoption, and succession planning are reshaping the entrepreneurial journey.
Learn More.
| | Partner Small Business Week events | |
Leeds Grenville Small Business: Bridges to Better Business 2025 – Digital & AI Adoption for the Future
When: Thursday, October 23, 2025 | 4:00–8:00 p.m.
Where: Joshua Bates Centre, 1 Main Street, Athens
Cost: $69
Join Leeds Grenville Small Business for an evening on how digital tools and AI drive growth, efficiency, and innovation, featuring Fraser Hardy and Theo Graham. Learn from industry leaders, connect with peers, and leave with practical tactics you can apply to your business.
Highlights include: networking, expert-led presentations, a catered dinner, cash bar featuring Arbru Solar Brewery, interactive Q&A, awards celebrating outstanding businesses, and the Starter Company Plus graduation.
Click here to register
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South Grenville Chamber of Commerce: Small Business Week Celebration at RBC
The South Grenville Chamber of Commerce and RBC are hosting a special Small Business Week event in Prescott.
Date: Thursday, October 23, 2025
Time: 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Location: RBC Branch, 302 King Street West, 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
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The Community Improvement Plan (CIP) Incentive Program is delivering results in Prescott. From supporting facade restoration work at 121–123 King Street West to residential and commercial redevelopment at 202–210 King Street West as well as other project large and small throughout Prescott, the program is helping property & business owners reinvest in and revitalize key spaces.
It’s also supporting new entrepreneurs, helping to fund distinctive new signage at RiverWalk Footcare (pictured), which celebrated its grand opening on August 27.
Through a mix of non-repayable grants, 0% interest loans, and tax incentives, the CIP Incentive Program is encouraging investment, improvements, heritage preservation, and new development—strengthening Prescott’s economic future one project at a time.
Interested in the CIP Incentive Program? Click here to learn more.
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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 Prescott’s business community, this is your opportunity to get involved.
If you're interested, please complete the online Nomination Form here.
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Downtown Parking Advisory
King Street has a two-hour parking limit, enforced Monday–Saturday, 9 AM–6 PM. For longer visits or shifts, please use municipal lots or side street parking.
Free extended parking is available at the Clock Tower lot, RiverWalk Park lot, and north of the Prescott Pop-Ups.
Businesses are asked to remind customers of options, and owners/employees should leave King Street spaces open for visitors. See the map for parking locations and always follow posted signage.
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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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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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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.
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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.
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Community Futures Grenville Celebrates 35 Years of Local Impact
Community Futures Grenville marked its 35th Anniversary Annual General Meeting this September with a celebration at Maitland Tower. The milestone offered a chance to reflect on three and a half decades of helping businesses grow and communities prosper across Prescott, Edwardsburg Cardinal, Augusta, and North Grenville.
Since its establishment in 1990, CF Grenville has been headquartered in Downtown Prescott, serving as a critical partner for local businesses. A not-for-profit organization governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, CF Grenville receives operational funding from the Government of Canada through FedDev Ontario as part of the national Community Futures Program, a network of 267 organizations dedicated to rural economic development.
Locally, that work translates into flexible business loans, no-cost business advice, grants for community projects, and initiatives such as Leeds Grenville’s Greatest Entrepreneur competition. Together, these programs have invested millions of dollars in the region, supported thousands of jobs, and helped hundreds of businesses start, expand, or adapt to change.
This year’s Annual Meeting featured remarks from MP Michael Barrett, MPP Steve Clark, and Augusta Mayor Jeff Shaver, along with a keynote from longtime Executive Director Heather Lawless, who reflected on the strength of the institution and the tangible difference it has made in communities across Grenville County. The event also saw governance transitions, with thanks to outgoing Directors Mitch Bloom and Norie Spence, and a welcome to incoming members Cathy Sheppard and Mariam Hussain.
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As part of the anniversary celebrations, CF Grenville presented four Business Lifetime Achievement Awards to recognize businesses that have demonstrated decades of leadership and service including Prescott’s Beach Equipment & Hardware. Founded over 70 years ago, Beach has grown into a cornerstone of the local economy, serving generations of residents and tradespeople from its Industrial Road location. The award was accepted by Steve Holmgren (pictured with CF Grenville Executive Director Katie Nolan and Board Chair Mitch Bloom) on behalf of owners Lewis and Lynn Beach, acknowledging their sustained contribution to the region’s prosperity.
Community Futures Grenville remains focused on building a strong local economy and supporting a vibrant community. Local businesses are encouraged to connect with CF Grenville to explore financing options and business advice designed to help them grow and adapt.
For more information, visit www.cfgrenville.ca.
| | Business Openings & Anniversaries | | |
Canadian Tire Prescott
140 Prescott Centre Drive
90th Anniversary
October 1
YOUR Family Dollar
109 Churchill Road East
22nd Anniversary
October 3
First Choice Prescott
305 King Street West
27th Anniversary
September 17
Milano Pizzaria Prescott
178 King Street East
1st Anniversary
September 21
Outpost Cafe
164 King Street West
3rd Anniversary
September 23
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Pet Valu
670 Edward Street South
4th Anniversary on Edward Street
October 23
Prescott Pizzaria/Prescott Smoke Shop & Grocery
108 Park Street East
2nd Anniversary
October 23
Star Wellness
132 King Street West
12th Anniversary
October 30
CSE Consulting/Creative Steps to Employment
191 King Street East
26th Anniversary
November 1
| | 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. | |
Leeds Grenville’s Greatest Entrepreneur: Your Idea, Your Moment
Every great business starts the same way: with an idea. Leeds Grenville’s Greatest Entrepreneur, presented by Community Futures Grenville and the 1000 Islands Community Development Corporation, is designed to take that idea further. Whether you’re still shaping your first plan or already working to grow your business, this is your chance to bring it to the next level.
Here’s how it works: entrepreneurs across the region will submit their ideas, and by late fall, a select group of finalists will be named. On January 28, 2026, those finalists will pitch live for two grand prize packages — each worth $10,000 in cash and $10,000 in services to help businesses start and grow. Beyond the funding, the real value comes in the coaching, exposure, and connections that finalists gain along the way.
This isn’t just a competition — it’s a platform. It’s about giving risk-takers and innovators the opportunity to test their ideas, meet potential partners, and stand out in front of the people who can help them succeed. For Downtown Prescott entrepreneurs, it’s an ideal way to showcase the creativity and drive that define our business community.
Applications are open until October 17. Two virtual info sessions (Sept 24 & Sept 29) will guide you through everything you need to know.
Learn more and submit your application at www.lggreatestentrepreneur.ca
| | Arthur McGregor performs for an appreciative crowd at 542 Henry Street West during Porchfest 2.0 | Porchfest 2.0: Prescott’s Streets Come Alive | | |
After May’s inaugural Porchfest was rained out and moved indoors, Prescott’s second try this fall delivered everything the community had been waiting for. Porchfest 2.0 brought music, laughter, and connection to porches across town on a perfect September day — our first true outdoor Porchfest.
Eighteen porches became stages, drawing crowds of up to 60 at a time. Audiences strolled from one neighbourhood to the next, discovering a cross-genre lineup that spanned acoustic rock, pop, country, jazz, traditional folk, and Canadiana. The atmosphere was both lively and relaxed, with families on lawns, children dancing in the street, and neighbours sharing in a day of grassroots music-making.
| | Roxy's Proxy closes out a successful Porchfest in style at the evening concert at the Kinsmen Amphitheatre | | |
The celebration carried into the evening with a sold-out BBQ Chicken Dinner at the Kinsmen Amphitheatre, followed by a waterfront finale that brought the house down. Jessica Lavallée’s East Coast-inspired country, Mark Bergman’s storytelling folk-rock, and Roxy’s Proxy’s crowd-pleasing set closed out the night in style, proving that Porchfest has already become a signature Prescott event.
More than a festival, Porchfest 2.0 was a placemaking success — turning porches, streets, and our waterfront into shared cultural spaces, strengthening community ties, and showcasing Prescott as a vibrant destination.
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Special thanks go to George Tierney and South Grenville Events for their leadership, and to the many porch hosts and performers who helped make Porchfest 2.0 a milestone. With perfect weather, sold-out support, and unforgettable performances, Prescott can proudly say its first outdoor Porchfest was one for the books.
Stay tuned for details on Porchfest 2026 — we can’t wait to welcome you back for another day of music and community next year.
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Prescott Junction Plaque Unveiled
On Saturday, September 20, 2025, community members gathered at the eastern end of the Heritage Trail in front of Fort Wellington to witness the unveiling and dedication of a new plaque commemorating Prescott Junction, the long-lost railway hamlet that once connected Eastern Ontario to Montreal, Toronto, and Ottawa.
Hosted by the Grenville County Historical Society, the ceremony featured remarks from dignitaries including MP Michael Barrett, MPP Steve Clark, and representatives from Prescott and Edwardsburg Cardinal. Fraser Laschinger provided historical background, recounting how the Junction thrived in the mid-19th century before disappearing in the 1880s. The event was a fitting tribute to a community that shaped Prescott’s role as a regional transportation hub and ensured that its memory will live on for future generations.
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Halloween Town Returns November 1
Prescott’s spookiest tradition returns on Saturday, November 1, 2025, as Halloween Town takes over the Prescott Pop-Ups and Downtown Prescott. Families can look forward to an afternoon and evening filled with festive fun. At the Pop-Ups, children can enjoy trick-or-treating through the cottages, show off their costumes in the always-popular costume contest, and brave the Tunnel of Terror—if they dare.
Downtown businesses will once again take part in a window decorating contest, while little ghosts and goblins make their way along King Street for trick-or-treating. Community members are also invited to take part in our first Downtown pumpkin contest by dropping off their carved creations at the Clock Tower by 11:00 a.m. All entries receive $5 Prescott Dollars (limit one per household).
Pumpkins will be judged in four categories—Best, Scariest, Funniest, and Most Creative—with winners receiving Prescott Dollars. All entries will then light up the evening in the Pumpkin Parade through RiverWalk Park and on to the Pop-Ups, creating a glowing display in the heart of the waterfront.
Stay tuned for the full schedule of events, and be sure to mark your calendars for this celebration of community spirit, creativity, and Halloween fun.
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Festival of Small Halls Returns to Prescott
Chantal Kreviazuk
October 11, 2025 @ 7:00 pm
St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church
Experience one of Canada’s most celebrated singer-songwriters in an intimate setting. Chantal Kreviazuk, JUNO and Grammy winner, Order of Canada recipient, and acclaimed pianist, brings her powerful voice and timeless hits to Prescott this fall.
Known for her own chart-topping albums and songwriting for global superstars, Kreviazuk’s performance at St. Andrew’s promises to be unforgettable.
Tickets & More Information: Festival of Small Halls
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A Gatsby Gala: An Evening of Glamour for the St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival
Step back into the splendour of the Roaring Twenties at A Gatsby Gala, a dazzling fundraiser in support of the St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival.
On Saturday, October 18 at 6:00 PM, the Prescott Golf Club (900 Boundary St.) will be transformed into a 1920s-style celebration filled with elegance, excitement, and entertainment. Guests will enjoy a plated dinner, live entertainment, and both live and silent auctions—all in support of one of Prescott’s most treasured cultural institutions.
This is your chance to dress in your finest 1920s attire and immerse yourself in an evening of giving, glamour, and good company.
Tickets are $90 per person and are available online at stlawrenceshakespeare.ca or in person at 202 King St. W.
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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.
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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 | | |
Prompting 101: Talk to It Like a Boss – October 22, 2025 | Online
Master the critical art of crafting prompts that get results—and reframe how you interact with ChatGPT. This free, one-hour RTO 9 online session empowers you to transform vague or generic queries into sharp, personalized, business-ready prompts.
Register Here.
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Understanding Meta Ads: Part 1 – October 23, 2025 | Online
Learn how to refine your audience targeting and get more from your Meta advertising in this free RTO 9 webinar, hosted in partnership with JBC | Pushing Digital Boundaries. This one-hour session will walk you through building effective saved and custom audiences and applying the latest Meta Ads updates to keep your campaigns optimized and results-driven.
Register here.
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Understanding Meta Ads: Part 2 – October 30, 2025 | Online
Continue your digital ad expertise with the second installment of RTO 9’s “Meta Ads” series, presented in partnership with JBC | Pushing Digital Boundaries. In this free, one-hour online session, you'll get a clear, hands-on introduction to the foundational components of a successful ad campaign—from the anatomy of ad campaign fundamentals to building ad sets and individual creatives tailored to specific audiences, to smart strategies for allocating your ad budget effectively.
Register here.
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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.
Register here.
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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.
Register here.
| | For more information on Tourism programs and events in Prescott, follow #ExplorePrescottON on social media, visit our website, or contact us. | |
2025 Leeds Grenville Diversity Day
Thursday, November 6 • Brockville Country Club
The St. Lawrence-Rideau Immigration Partnership will hold Diversity Day on Wednesday, November 6 at the Brockville Country Club, bringing together local voices to explore equity, diversity, and inclusion. From Indigenous perspectives and newcomer experiences to youth and community justice initiatives, the day will feature engaging speakers and organizations including Arpan Kuar, Lorraine Rekmans, NG Pride, Girls Inc., and more.
Running from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., this free event offers a chance to learn, connect, and strengthen our communities. Registration is open until October 29 at tinyurl.com/53x9pzt8.
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Leeds Grenville Economic Development Summit
Friday, November 21 • 9 am to 3 pm • North Grenville Municipal Centre, 285 County Road 44, Kemptville
Cost: $58, advanced purchase required
Hosted by Leeds Grenville Economic Development, the Economic Development Summit 2025 takes place Friday, November 21, 2025, from 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. at the North Grenville Municipal Centre, Kemptville.
Join regional business, political and community leaders for insights on leadership, economic growth, innovation, workforce challenges, local opportunity stories, and honor the Bill Thake Memorial Economic Development Leadership Award.
More Information
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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
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“Building Accessibility – It’s Easier Than You Think!”
Hosted by the Leeds Grenville Accessibility Advisory Committee, this webinar takes place at New Hope Church in Brockville on Friday, October 3 at 9:00 AM, and offers practical, locally relevant guidance for businesses, venue managers, and community leaders looking to improve building accessibility efficiently and cost-effectively
Register Here
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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.
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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.
| | This Month at CSE Consulting | | |
Free 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)
AI for Operations: Work Smarter and Automate Admin and Projects | Business Advisory Centre Durham (BACD) | October 2 | 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Get a clear, jargon-free intro to AI tools that streamline admin, projects, collaboration, and bookkeeping for small businesses.
Register here
AI Made Easy: Practical Solutions for Startups | Innovation Factory | October 16 | 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Demystify AI with low-cost tools and workflows that simplify marketing, sales, and operations for small teams.
Register here
Using AI in Marketing: Create, Brand & Share Like a Pro | Business Advisory Centre Durham (BACD) | October 21 | 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Learn AI workflows to brainstorm, write, design, and distribute on-brand content consistently across channels.
Register here
Sales & Marketing
Social Media 101 – A Complete Guide for Small Businesses – 4 Part Series | Business Centre Guelph-Wellington | October 1 | 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Unlock the power of social media with practical guidance designed to help small businesses grow their reach and results.
Register here
Market Research | Business Resource Centre (BRC) | October 7 | 10:00 am – 11:30 am
Find and use key data sources to analyze your industry, competitors, financing options, and customers to inform better decisions.
Register here
Social Media for your Business | Digital Main Street | October 7 | 10:00 am - 11:30 am
The Digital Main Street team helps you choose the best social media platforms for your business and helps you get started.
Register here
Marketing and Sales | Business Resource Centre (BRC) | October 14 | 10:00 am – 11:30 am
Create and implement a strategic marketing and sales plan that builds leads, handles objections, and measures results.
Register here
Ask the Expert: From Conversations to Confident Sales – Tools & Tactics | Business Advisory Centre Durham (BACD) | October 15 | 9:30 am – 11:30 am
Bring your real sales challenges to an interactive AMA session covering mindset, process, objections, and holiday-season prep.
Register here
Build Your Sales! | Business Centre Guelph-Wellington | October 16 | 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Refine your sales strategy with core techniques like active listening, rapport building, and relationship nurturing.
Register here
Unlock Growth Through Omnichannel Selling | Boundless Accelerator | October 21 | 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm
Harness marketplaces and digital channels to expand reach, boost brand exposure, and manage growth smarter.
Register here
BACD Business Fundamentals: Marketing & Sales | Business Advisory Centre Durham (BACD) | October 29 | 9:30 am – 11:30 am
Build a practical marketing and sales strategy—from value proposition and tactics to lead generation and follow-up.
Register here
Finance & Taxes
Introduction to Bookkeeping: Logan Katz Learning Series | Invest Ottawa Education Centre | October 15 | 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Learn bookkeeping fundamentals, organize financial records, and avoid common pitfalls to keep your numbers accurate.
Register here
Understanding Financial Statements | Business Advisory Centre Durham (BACD) | October 20 | 10:00 am – 11:30 am
Strengthen your financial literacy by learning how to read and interpret core financial statements.
Register here
Numbers Made Easy: Bookkeeping 101 for Small Businesses | Business Centre Guelph-Wellington | October 23 | 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Demystify bookkeeping basics—income, expenses, invoicing, tax prep, and reporting—to stay organized and compliant.
Register here
Financial Forecasting | Business Resource Centre (BRC) | October 28 | 10:00 am – 11:30 am
Calculate costs, budgets, cash flow, breakeven points, and pricing to improve profitability and quotes.
Register here
Export & Trade
Financial Assistance for Importers and Exporters | City of Toronto Economic Development & Culture | October 8 | 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Learn where to find grants and funding for trade diversification, what information is required, and how to prepare.
Register here
Strategic Pricing & Competitive Advantage in a Tariff Environment | City of Toronto Economic Development & Culture | October 16 | 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Set prices strategically and build an edge amid evolving tariffs and trade conditions.
Register here
Digital Trade & E-commerce: Selling Online to International Customers | City of Toronto Economic Development & Culture | October 22 | 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Boost international online sales with practical steps for digital trade and e-commerce expansion.
Register here
Free Trade with Europe (CETA): What’s in it for us? (Virtual) | Invest Ottawa Education Centre | October 27 | 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Understand CETA’s benefits and how Canadian companies can leverage the agreement to diversify beyond the U.S.
Register here
Legal Considerations & Trade Compliance for Exporters | City of Toronto Economic Development & Culture | October 30 | 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Navigate key legal and compliance requirements for exporting to reduce risk and operate globally with confidence.
Register here
HR / Operations / Admin
HR for Small Business – What’s essential to know in 2025 | Business Centre Guelph-Wellington | October 9 | 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Cut through the noise on compliance and hiring with practical, must-know HR guidance for small business owners.
Register here
Workplace Safety Essential for Small Businesses: A Practical Guide | Business Centre Guelph-Wellington | October 15 | 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Small Business Week — explore fundamental safety practices every employer should know to create a safer workplace.
Register here
Uncover Your Website Secrets with Google Analytics | Invest Ottawa Education Centre | October 16 | 10:00 am – 11:15 am
Beginner-friendly GA4 session: learn which reports matter, where visitors come from, and how your site drives business goals.
Register here
Securing Your Online Presence: Smart, Simple Steps to Protect Your Business | Business Advisory Centre Durham (BACD) | October 23 | 9:30 am – 11:00 am
Protect your brand with affordable steps: domains/DNS, email authentication (SPF/DKIM/DMARC), HTTPS, profiles, and device security.
Register here
Hiring Best Practices: Navigating Today’s Talent Landscape | Brampton Entrepreneur Centre | October 30 | 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Learn how partnering with an employment agency can scale hiring, access specialized talent, and optimize staffing outcomes.
Register here
Maximizing Employer Support through Service Canada | Business Centre Guelph-Wellington | October 30 | 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Get an overview of Service Canada programs for employers, including Work-Sharing, EI, WEPP, and supports for the self-employed.
Register here
Start-Up Basics
Business Model Canvas Crash Course | Regional Business Centre | October 2 | 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Learn a simple, practical way to map your business model, refine strategy, and spot new opportunities using the Business Model Canvas.
Register here
Business Model Canvas | Brampton Entrepreneur Centre | October 14 | 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Use the Business Model Canvas to visualize how your business creates and delivers value, then draft a strong value proposition.
Register here
Entrepreneur Essentials: Start-Up 101 – Regulations, Registering & Licenses | City of Vaughan, Small Business & Entrepreneurship | October 23 | 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Get the essentials on business registration, licensing, and regulatory steps to launch correctly.
Register here
Fundamentals of Buying and Selling a Business | Business Advisory Centre Durham (BACD) | October 22 | 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Navigate the full transaction lifecycle—from preparation and valuation to due diligence and closing.
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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 Series (1 of 4): Ideation and Market Research | City of Vaughan, Small Business & Entrepreneurship | October 7 | 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Validate your business idea and build vision, mission, and market research foundations to test assumptions.
Register here
Business Planning Launchpad Series (2 of 4): Sales and Marketing | City of Vaughan, Small Business & Entrepreneurship | October 14 | 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Boost your sales and marketing skills as part of Vaughan’s Business Planning Launchpad Series.
Register here
Business Planning Launchpad Series (3 of 4): Operations, Time and Risk Management | City of Vaughan, Small Business & Entrepreneurship | October 21 | 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Improve operations with time and risk management strategies as part of Vaughan’s Launchpad Series.
Register here
Business Planning Launchpad Series (4 of 4): Financials | City of Vaughan, Small Business & Entrepreneurship | October 28 | 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Learn to budget, manage cash flow, and strengthen your business financials to support growth.
Register here
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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.
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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
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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.
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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 Rural Ontario Development (ROD) Program – Business Development stream offers up to 35% of eligible project costs, to a maximum of $10,000, for rural Ontario businesses aiming to grow, attract investment, or create jobs.
Funding is first-come, first-served, with one application per business and projects due by March 31, 2026. Review the full guidelines before applying.
Learn More.
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The Skills Development Fund (SDF) Training Stream funds projects that help Ontario employers hire, train, and retain workers, especially in skilled trades and key growth sectors.
Eligible applicants include employers, non-profits, industry associations, trade unions, municipalities, and Indigenous organizations. Apply by October 1, 2025.
Learn More
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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
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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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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
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| | Town of Prescott Economic Development & Tourism Department Staff | | | | |
