Economic Development and Tourism News
Development fees and rebate program updated to assist and attract investors
In order to stay competitive and attract development that will continue to support Georgina’s growing economy, the Town recently updated it’s building permit fee related to industrial interior alterations. With phase one of the 404 Logistics Business Park development in progress, the change will help make available industrial space more attractive to investors.

Earlier this year, the Town’s Development Fee Rebate Program, which reduces the financial burden on landowners and business owners expanding/relocating or creating new businesses, was expanded to include more sectors. This also helps Georgina to stay competitive and incentivize investors.

These changes help staff as they support investors through Georgina's Business Class Program, which assists them from an initial meeting through the development application process.
Celebrating and supporting small businesses
small business week events in Georgina
Oct. 16-22 is Small Business Week – an opportunity to celebrate small businesses in our community. Small businesses make up 98 per cent of our economy, and while they may be small, but their contribution is enormous. This means their impact on the local job market is also monumental. To celebrate and support them this week, the Town of Georgina, South Lake Community Futures and the Georgina Chamber of Commerce has assembled a calendar of events.
The Town will kick off Small Business Week events with a Business Open House on Mon., Oct. 17. Between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m., business owners, event organizers and aspiring entrepreneurs are invited to join us at the Georgina YSpace Entrepreneurship Hub.
 
Between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m., visitors will have the opportunity to:
  • View the space and learn how they can utilize it for their entrepreneurship and business needs
  • Learn about current programming and speak one-on-one with our YSpace coordinator
  • Engage with Town staff regarding programs and grants for businesses and event organizers
 
At 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., participate in an information session on current Town programs and grants for businesses and provide feedback on current needs for future programs. Those interested in attending these sessions are encouraged to register.
 
At 3 p.m., participate in an information session on running a special event in the Town of Georgina. Learn about what is required from the Town and how it can support your efforts through awareness and funding. Those interested in attending this session are encouraged to register.
New entrepreneurship program accepting applications
Does your business or venture idea have a business plan?
A business plan is a vital step in creating your new business. It outlines the company’s vision and creates a road map that gives potential business partners an opportunity to gain deep insights into the business.  

Business Plan Bootcamp is an eight-week, free-of-charge educational entrepreneurship series that helps aspiring or existing business owners write and develop their business plan. Participants will learn from weekly on-demand workshops, meet with mentors and network with other business owners. 

Applications close on Oct. 10, 2022. 
Business Excellence and Mayor and Council Milestone Awards
Nominations are now open for the Georgina Chamber of Commerce's Georgina Business Excellence Awards 2022. 

Our local business community has shown tremendous resiliency through the COVID-19 pandemic. They are a part of the fabric that makes Georgina a desired place to live, work and play. Let's continue to show our support with nominations.

The winners will be celebrated alongside Mayor and Council's Milestone Awards at an in-person gala on Dec. 8, 2022.
Career exploration and coaching program for women
The Women's Centre of York Region is offering a career exploration program to help women prepare for rewarding employment opportunities. Participants will:
 
  • Boost self-confidence and identify interests and skills 
  • Discover employment options that fit their personality 
  • Research occupations and make a career plan, including education, volunteering, etc. 
  • Get motivated to follow their career path 
  • Access networking events with special guest speakers 
  • Receive a $50 Winner's gift card upon completion

The program runs for ten weeks on Thursdays beginning Oct. 20 to Dec. 22 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. in-person at the Link in Sutton.
Local Spotlight
Georgina welcomes new business ventures
Lakeside Italian Hot Table and Gelato
Claudio Macri and Patricia Ramos are the new owners of Jackson's Point quaint and much-loved Italian food and gelato dining restaurant located at 928 Lake Dr. E.

ABC Training Fitness Studio Inc.
Andrea Beckett, a certified personal trainer, opened a women's only fitness studio at 155 Riverglen Dr., in Keswick.

Enumerate CPAs Professional Corporation
The owners of Enumerate CPAs Professional Corporation at 449 the Queensway S., Kamesh and Vishwa, held a meet and greet at the ROC Chalet to meet their clients and the community.
Premier North Windows and Doors
Looking to add additional locations to their southern GTA stores, Barry and Eugene chose Georgina as their newest showroom location at 155 Riverglen Dr., in Keswick

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.
Local Business Support
Town of Georgina support programs
The Town's business support programs include grants, a development application fee rebate and a patio program. Learn more.
Entrepreneurship programs
The Town of Georgina and the Town of East Gwillimbury are continuing a partnership with York University’s YSpace to deliver a two-year Business Incubator/Accelerator pilot project to support entrepreneurs and economic growth during the recovery phase of the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. Learn more and register.
Digital support and transformation grant
Digital Main Street programs support small businesses looking to sell online or enhance their digital technology. Learn more.
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 create product prototypes to business incubators providing support and guidance. Learn more.
Financial support and guidance
South Lake Futures has established the COVID-19 Response Fund to offer loans below prime rate to support businesses impacted by the pandemic. Learn more.
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.
Featured Properties for 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 industry.
Keswick
$320,000
Georgina
$2,199,000
Jackson's Point
$6,000,000

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.
Events
Georgina ICE Friday Night Hockey
Friday nights at 7:30 p.m.
Georgina Ice Palace, 90 Wexford Dr.
Homegrown 2022
Oct. 15 at 7 p.m.
Stephen Leacock Theatre, 130 Gwendolyn Blvd.
Tarts4Hearts Butter Tart Festival
Oct. 22 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Georgina Ice Palace, 90 Wexford Dr.
Family Fright Fiesta
Oct. 22 from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Georgina Pioneer Village, 26557 Civic Centre Rd.
One Dark Night
Oct. 25 and 27
Various locations throughout Georgina
For a full list of upcoming events, visit georgina.ca/events.
Georgina Economic Development and Tourism