Economic Development and Tourism |
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2022 Economic Development and Tourism highlights |
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In 2022, the focus was on economic recovery, for which the Town provided support through the continuation of COVID-19 grants, the launch of new entrepreneurial skills training programs and marketing. Additionally, 19 in-person events were supported through community betterment and economic grants. The return of these events were warmly received, bringing back a sense of pre-pandemic normalcy and civic pride.
Even though recovery was a major focus, the Town continued to move forward with projects and initiatives such as the Waterfront Parks Master Plan and the Broadband Strategy and Action Plan that will have a long-term impact on our economy. Support for community organizations, investment attraction and the growth of signature events were also priorities for the Town in 2022. Some highlights include:
- Town staff worked with Panattoni Development Company, which owns 200 of the 500 acres of business park lands in Keswick, to break ground on its first building.
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A two-year partnership with York University’s YSpace and the Town of East Gwillimbury was launched to provide entrepreneurship training and mentorship to established or aspiring entrepreneurs. 2022 programming supported more than 250 participants.
- More than 311K was received through grants to promote tourism, improve infrastructure and beautify the downtown areas.
- Georgina was chosen as one of the three host municipalities for Canada's Rural and Remote Broadband Conference, bringing industry professionals to Jackson's Point from across the country.
- The Choose Georgina campaign was launched, spotlighting business owners, investors and residents on why they chose to live, work and play in Georgina.
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The third annual Taste of Georgina and sixth annual Field to Table events brought in thousands of dollars in revenue and new customers to participating businesses.
Economic Development and Tourism staff continued to support the business community through one-on-one meetings and engagement opportunities, and responded to more than 65 business support and investment inquiries. As we move into a new year, the Town will continue to move forward with projects and initiatives that will meet the needs of our current and projected climate.
If you are interested in learning more about the Town's programming, grants and support, we encourage you to register for the Georgina Chamber of Commerce's lunch and learn at the Link on Jan. 18 at noon. Alternatively, you can connect with us to inquire about how our Economic Development and Tourism office can support your business or event.
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Enhance your online skills for free with new workshop series |
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The Digital Skills for Business program is a free-of-charge educational workshop series that focuses on building the presence of your business online. This series will cover topics like social media, digital marketing, e-commerce, SEO, and how-to-use tools like Facebook Meta, Google Ads and Google Analytics. Additionally, individuals who attend 12 of the 15 sessions will have the opportunity to apply for eight weeks of business development mentorship following the program.
Need help applying your new digital skills for your business? Just drop in. This program includes two practical drop-in sessions in both Georgina and East Gwillimbury. In addition to virtual workshops, participants can join in-person peer-to-peer networking sessions and a bonus Ask Me Anything with a marketing expert.
The program is open to entrepreneurs 18+ who reside in northern York Region, primarily in East Gwillimbury, Georgina, the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nations and the surrounding area. For established business owners or first-time founders, this program is designed to close the digital gap for local business owners.
Register now. Workshops begin Tuesday., Feb. 21, 2023.
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Town accepting applications for early 2023 events that will have an economic impact |
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Are you planning an event taking place late winter through spring 2023 that will have an impact on our community? The Town’s Economic Development and Community Betterment Grants could help to support your efforts. Eligible applicants could receive up to 50 per cent of their total eligible expenses, up to a maximum of $5,000. Learn more and apply online before the first intake deadline on Jan. 27, 2023.
In 2022, 19 grant recipients, including the Georgina Studio Tour, Georgina Marathon and Half Marathon and Military Day, received funding and support.
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Georgina welcomes visitors to its shores for winter fun |
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Tourism is an important contributor to the local economy and Georgina's identity. With the Town being located on the shores of the ice fishing capital of North America - Lake Simcoe and less than an hour from the city, it welcomes thousands of visitors during the winter months.
If you are thinking about starting a tourism-related business, we encourage you to connect with our office to learn more about the area and current opportunities.
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It’s time to spice things up again and showcase the tastes of Georgina. We are putting a call out to Georgina’s restaurants that would like to be featured during our two-week event this winter.
Last year, more than 740 prix fixe meals were sold, which brought in more than $22,000 in profit for the participating businesses. The event also brought in many new customers that purchased other meals from the regular menus.
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Established more than 20 years ago, the Georgina Studio Tour showcases diverse local artists and artisans throughout Georgina the last weekend in September. Organizers are accepting submissions for consideration for their 2023 event until Feb. 28. |
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Pefferlaw welcomes new restaurant to its growing and supportive community |
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The Pefferlaw community in the Town of Georgina is buzzing about the newest restaurant in Town – Taps n’ Tracks. The new dining establishment adds to Pefferlaw’s growing main street that includes unique shops, essentials and other dining options. It is another great place to eat and socialize for residents and the many visitors coming to Georgina year-round.
Co-owner and five-year resident, Matthew Ryan, said he chooses to live and work in Pefferlaw because of the people. “Our neighbours are amazing. They’ve all become family. The comradery here, the support, and the community is unreal. I grew up in the city and never imagined myself living in a rural area like this, but now I would never imagine going back.” Read more.
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Custom framing, art and restoration.
294 The Queensway S., Keswick
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David Marchese Insurance Ltd |
Insurance and financial services.
942 Lake Dr. E., Jacksons Point
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Maureen McDermott Ceremony Officiant |
Offering officiant services and micro pop-up weddings
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Have you opened a new business or plan to open one soon? We want to be there! You throw the celebration and we’ll bring the ribbon and scissors.
Representatives from the Georgina Chamber of Commerce and the Town of Georgina, along with dignitaries, will join you and your guests to honour your momentous event. Fill out a short form to notify the appropriate parties of your upcoming event by visiting georginachamber.com/ribbon-cuttings.
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Town of Georgina support programs
The Town's business support programs include grants, a development application fee rebate and a patio program. Learn more.
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Entrepreneurship programs
The Town of Georgina and the Town of East Gwillimbury have partnered with York University’s YSpace to deliver free entrepreneurial skills training programs to support entrepreneurs and economic growth. Learn more.
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Digital support
Digital Main Street programs support small businesses looking to sell online or enhance their digital technology. Learn more.
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Online resources for businesses in York Region
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.
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Financial support and guidance
South Lake Futures provides loans for small businesses, business start-up consultations, business name registration assistance, business grants and growth counselling. Learn more.
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Georgina's Economic Development Officer, Sean Columbus, is available to guide you to programs, resources or funding opportunities you may not be aware of. Connect with him.
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Featured Properties for Sale |
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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 industry.
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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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Georgina ICE Friday Night Hockey |
Friday nights at 7:30 p.m.
Georgina Ice Palace, 90 Wexford Dr.
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Lunch and Learn at the Link - Grants, Loans and Opportunities in Georgina |
Jan. 18 from noon to 1:30 p.m.
20849 Dalton Rd., Sutton (the Link)
Join the Georgina Chamber of Commerce, South Lake Futures and Town of Georgina staff to discuss opportunities for your business, organization or event.
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Georgina Economic Development and Tourism
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