Economic Development and Tourism News | | Building a progressive and vibrant Georgina | | |
The Town of Georgina marked a year of progress in 2024, advancing key priorities that support long-term population and employment growth. With an estimated population of 51,904 at year-end, Georgina continues to move toward its 2051 targets of 70,500 residents and 20,700 jobs. Major strides were made in the development of employment lands, including the addition of three tenants to the Keswick Business Park and zoning approval for the Canadian Life Science and Technology Park.
Business activity remained strong, with 93 new establishments added and more than 150 businesses supported through training and outreach. Progress was further supported by strong collaboration with partners and stakeholders, along with more than $103,000 in grant funding.
Through more than 70 business visits and targeted support programs, the Town strengthened relationships with local entrepreneurs and helped foster a vibrant business environment.
These efforts support immediate economic outcomes and also lay the foundation for future growth and diversification. As Georgina reflects on the accomplishments of 2024, it remains focused on building momentum and creating a thriving, resilient community for years to come.
| | Whoville on High Street recognized at 2025 OBIAA Conference | | |
The Town of Georgina congratulates the Downtown Sutton BIA on being recognized with a Certificate of Merit for their submission of Whoville on High Street in the Award of Marketing and Promotions—Special Events category at the 2025 OBIAA Conference. The event welcomed thousands of residents and visitors to High Street for the second annual event in 2024.
This recognition highlights the incredible effort of the Sutton BIA board, local business owners and the continued support of our community. Whoville on High Street has become a cherished seasonal event that brings festive spirit to downtown Sutton, but also strengthens community bonds, supports local businesses and attracts visitors from across the region.
The event adds to the growing list of events that occur year-round in our lakeside communities, drawing attendees and creating an economic impact. If you are interested in establishing an event in the Town of Georgina, connect with us at ed@georgina.ca.
| | Expanded CIP grants updated to support business improvement areas | | |
The Town of Georgina has updated its Community Improvement Plan (CIP) Grant Program, creating new opportunities for businesses located within the defined areas of Jackson’s Point, Keswick and Sutton. If you’re planning improvements to your commercial property, these changes could offer valuable support.
One of the key updates includes expanding the Accessibility Grant to cover interior upgrades—such as accessible washrooms, wider doorways and lifts—making it easier for businesses to meet AODA and Ontario Building Code requirements. The Town has also increased the maximum grant amount for all CIP streams—including Accessibility, Façade, Heritage and Landscape improvements—to $7,500.
These changes aim to encourage investment in local storefronts while improving access and vibrancy across Georgina’s downtowns. Now is a great time to explore how the CIP can support your next improvement project.
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Tariff support
The Town of Georgina stands with its local businesses as it navigates the tariffs implemented by the U.S. government. We understand these tariffs will impact businesses throughout York Region and Georgina — not only affecting supply chains but also their ability to sustain employment opportunities that so many of our residents depend on. Our team is here to support your business through these challenges. Connect with us, access valuable information and register for webinars at choosegeorgina.ca/BusinessSupport.
Read the most recent news release from the Government of Canada published on April 15: Canada announces new support for Canadian businesses affected by U.S. tariffs
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Municipal business support and entrepreneurship programs
The Town supports businesses through YSpace entrepreneurship programming, grants, a development application fee rebate, a patio program and more. Learn more.
Regional resources and support
Online business resources include a new easy-to-use collection of links on business licensing, taxes, market research and more. The page also includes information on community assets within York Region – from maker spaces helping to create product prototypes to business incubators providing support and guidance. Learn more.
Financial guidance and support
South Lake Futures provides loans for small businesses, business start-up consultations, business name registration assistance, business grants and growth counselling. Learn more.
Networking
Looking for networking opportunities in 2025? Check out the Georgina Chamber of Commerce. Learn more.
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Ways to promote your tourism business and event
We've compiled a list of valuable resources you can take advantage of to increase your business or event exposure. View.
| | | Featured Program Opportunities | | | | |
Summer Company
Are you a student looking to kickstart your own business this summer? The York Small Business Enterprise Centre can help. If you’re aged 15-29 and live in northern York Region, you can receive training, mentoring, and up to $3,000 in start-up funding to launch your business. Gain essential entrepreneurial skills and make your business dreams a reality through the Summer Company program. Spots are limited and fill up fast, so apply now! Learn more and apply.
| | Featured Financial Opportunities | |
Restaurant Disaster Relief Fund
$10,000 grants available for selected restaurants in Canada, the United States, Puerto Rico, New Zealand and Australia affected by natural disasters like fires, floods, and hurricanes. Learn more.
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Quick Action Grants
Do you have an idea to support employment or mental well-being in Georgina? The Quick Action Grants are providing $4,000 resident grants and $7,500 agency grants to organize initiatives in Georgina. Applications are now open and close on May 15, 2024. Learn more.
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Business Benefits Finder
Whether you're an entrepreneur, a business or a not-for-profit organization, this tool can help you find grants, partnerships and support currently available to help you grow.
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| | The Town of Georgina’s business park lands offer one of the most extensive footprints for business development in the Greater Toronto Area. More than 180,000 sq. ft. is currently available for lease. Learn more. | | | | Featured properties for lease, rent or sale | | Are you looking for the perfect site to start or expand your business? We can help you find a location that will meet your needs and is zoned for your business. | | |
See full map of "For Sale" listings of Commercial and Industrial Properties.
Disclaimer: Listings are provided to the Town from brokers, real estate agents, and various real estate websites. The Town of Georgina assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of any information shown, and does not make any representation, warranties or guarantees of any kind in relation to the listings in this e-newsletter or the properties described therein. Please contact the real estate agent or other contact person identified on the listing to verify all information.
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Localizing the Canadian Supply Chain - Understanding Sector-Specific Impacts on U.S. Tariffs
This bi-weekly, one-hour co-creation speakers series explores the sector-by-sector impact of U.S. tariffs on Canadian business supply chains. Industry experts will discuss key challenges and strategies for building resilience, localization, and supply chain diversification amid shifting trade dynamics
Based on the recent implementation of U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods, several key industry sectors in Canada are significantly impacted. Each session will highlight a sector, and also provide updates with the ones previously discussed. Learn more and register.
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Planning for Expansion in a Changing Global Market
Canadian businesses have a world of opportunities in international markets, but succeeding in today’s global economy requires preparation and strategic planning. Join EDC on Thursday, April 24, 2025, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. where they will share practical tools and insights on how to create a strong international expansion strategy. Learn more and register.
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Business Model: What it is and How to Design One
Join business strategist Agnes Lan on Fri., May 2, for a free, hands-on pop-up workshop focused on building strong, sustainable business models using the Business Model Canvas framework. Walk away with a working draft of your Business Model Canvas and the tools to design for long-term success. Learn more and register.
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Thursday Thrive
Join Amandipp Singh, at YSpace Georgina in Sutton on May 22 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. where he’ll show you how to launch or grow your business using simple tools like e-commerce, social media and accessible content so more people can find and buy what you offer. To register, please email YSpace Business Entrepreneurship Coordinator, Negin at nkhorasani@georgina.ca.
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EDCO Georgina Regional Event 2025
Registration is now open for the 2025 EDCO Regional Event in Georgina, taking place on May 29 at ClearWater Farm. This full-day event offers a valuable opportunity to connect with industry leaders, gain insights, and explore strategies to drive local economic success. Agenda highlights include a keynote on Indigenous partnerships in economic development, a panel on the economic impact of growing agri-tourism, sessions on investment readiness for rural communities, and strategies for leveraging community stakeholders to support collective growth. Whether you're looking to expand your network or stay informed on key trends, this event is a must-attend for anyone involved in economic development. Learn more.
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Discover Georgina Show
Mark your calendar for the Discover Georgina Show on May 3–4, 2025 at the Georgina Ice Palace. This two-day event brings together local businesses, organizations and community groups, showcasing everything Georgina has to offer. Whether you live, work, or play here, there’s something for everyone to explore. Enjoy interactive exhibits, a full event schedule and the chance to win door prizes. Learn more.
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Georgina Farmers' Market
Visit the Farmers' Market Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. starting May 18 at The Link in Sutton. The Market brings together 40+ vendors offering fresh produce, meats, baked goods, handmade crafts and more. Enjoy live local music, delicious eats and a fun-filled atmosphere for the whole family – complete with kids’ activities and face painting. Run by dedicated volunteers, this market is a one-of-a-kind chance to meet and support the growers, bakers and makers who help nourish our community. Learn more.
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Visit our website
Discover why talent and businesses choose Georgina by exploring our economic development website, choosegeorgina.ca. The new site is a comprehensive resource for those considering Georgina as a place to call home and for existing businesses looking to expand.
| | | Georgina's Economic Development staff are available to guide you to programs, resources or funding opportunities you may not be aware of. Connect with us. | | | | |
