Happy Holidays from Georgina's Economic Development and Tourism Division

The Town of Georgina's Economic Development and Tourism staff wish our businesses, organizations, residents and followers a wonderful holiday with family and friends.

With the pandemic in the review mirror, we know residual challenges are with us and ahead. We want you to know we are committed to continuing to support economic stability and growth through programs, initiatives and advocacy that address the current economic climate and what lies ahead. In 2024, our office will begin implementing a new strategic plan developed by the community for the community. It focuses on promoting investment attraction, business retention and expansion, tourism development and downtown revitalization. We look forward to a bright 2024!

Thank you for continuing to choose Georgina.

Karyn, Katrina, Cristina, Julie, Stephanie and Karina

A snapshot of programs and successes at YSpace in 2023

Georgina’s partnership with the Town of East Gwillimbury and York University’s YSpace has been wildly successful, supporting many businesses in the initial stages of their entrepreneurship journey and those looking for assistance to expand or grow their business. The best part is that it has all been free to the participants thanks to financial support from the partnership and the Province’s Rural Economic Development grant program.

Between January and October 2023, YSpace programming supported more than 600 participants and offered more than 450 hours of mentorship. Learn more about this year's successes in our blog.

Want to take advantage of upcoming programming? Between Jan.16 and March 16, 2024, 12 workshops will be offered in person and virtually in Georgina and East Gwillimbury through the Digital Skills program that focuses on building an online presence. Entrepreneurs can attend one or as many sessions as they like that interest them for free. This series will cover topics about social media, digital marketing, e-commerce, SEO, content creation with AI and how-to-use tools such as Facebook Meta, Google Ads, Computer Basics, Networking, Internet Safety and Google Analytics.  

Georgina celebrates businesses with Mayor and Council's Milestone Awards

On Dec. 7, 2023, businesses, organizations, Council and Town staff gathered at the Briars Resort and Spa to celebrate business in Georgina. The Georgina Chamber of Commerce gave nine awards to entrepreneurs and not-for-profit organizations doing fantastic things in our community. This year, there were 138 nominations and 68 businesses up for awards.

The Town also recognized businesses and families rooted in Georgina for generations through the Mayor and Council's Milestone Awards. Seven businesses with more than two decades of operation in Georgina were recognized. These businesses serve as dedicated ambassadors for Georgina, intricately woven into the community's fabric, fostering enduring connections and contributing to Georgina's reputation as a great place to live, work and play. You can learn more about this year's recipients in our blog.

Funding Opportunities

Municipal funding

The Town of Georgina offers funding for businesses, organizations and event organizers. Learn more at georgina.ca/grants.

Provincial and federal funding opportunities

Visit mentorworks.ca/government-funding for a list of provincial and federal funding and support opportunities.

Non-profit organization resources and funding opportunities

A weekly eNewsletter that provides sector-based, up-to-date information on funding, professional development and training opportunities. Subscribe.

Experience Ontario 2024

For multi-day events between April 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025, that support eligible in-person festivals and events that will have an economic impact and generate increased tourism spending. Applications must be submitted by Jan. 11, 2024. Learn more and apply.

Grow your business Online Grant

Through the Government of Canada's Digital Adoption Program, small business owners can receive a micro-grant worth up to $2,400 to help get their business online, boost their e-commerce presence, or digitalize business operations. Learn more and apply.

Municipal business support and entrepreneurship programs

The Town's business support and entrepreneurship programs include grants, a development application fee rebate, a patio program and skills development training. 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.

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.

180 Church St.,

Keswick

$2,750,000

944 Lake Dr. E.,

Jackson's Point

$1,900,000

2100 Metro Rd.,

Jackson's Point

$3,275,000

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.

In the Blog

Georgina's frosty frontier

Dive into unforgettable ice-fishing experiences this winter

As winter starts to blanket Georgina with a pristine layer of snow, it transforms into a haven for ice-fishing enthusiasts. Nestled along the shores of Lake Simcoe, known as the “Ice Fishing Capital of Canada,” Georgina provides the perfect setting for a thrilling ice-fishing experience close to Toronto. Among the many activities winter brings, ice fishing stands out as a beloved pastime, and the Town's frozen lakeshore is a playground for anglers seeking the thrill of a catch beneath the icy surface. Read our blog on ice fishing in Georgina, where you'll find information on operators and everything you need to prepare for your day trip close to the city or overnight stay.