Economic Development and Tourism News
Georgina Studio Tour showcases growing art community
Now in its 27th year, the Georgina Studio Tour is an example of the Town's growing art and culture community. With more than 30 artists this year, the most they've ever had, there is a variety of talent on display. When we sat down with some of the artists, they commented on how the tour has helped unite them as a community. Watch as some of them chat about the tour and why they choose Georgina.

Since the pandemic hit, the artists have had limited opportunities to showcase their work in person. Many have pivoted but are so excited to once again be able to show the community their talents.
Funding and support for businesses to upgrade digital assets
With many businesses having to limit in-store operations due to COVID-19 restrictions, there is a heightened need to pivot online to bring in more revenue, enhance digital communication to engage with customers and implement touchless technology. Below are two of the ways small businesses in Georgina are being supported to fulfill these needs:

  1. Businesses located in one of Georgina's three designated Business Improvement Areas (BIAs) are eligible to apply for the COVID-19 Community Improvement Plan (CIP) technology stream. The grant may provide 50 per cent cost-share to a maximum of $1,500 in funding to purchase/implement new technology or software programs. The deadline to apply is Dec. 31, 2021. Please note an application must be submitted prior to starting any work.
  2. Digital Main Street programs, funded by the provincial and federal government, can provide support and funds up to $2,500 to small businesses (1-50 employees) with a brick and mortar location.
Ontario Proof of Vaccine Passport
The Ontario Proof of Vaccine Passport went into effect on Wednesday., Sept. 22.

Businesses and organizations:
Businesses and organizations that still have questions about implementing the new requirements can refer to the Proof of Vaccination Guidance for Businesses and Organizations under the Reopening Ontario Act document.

Town facilities:
As of Sept. 22, 2021, the Town will require proof of vaccination for people to access indoor services and programs/lessons taking place at community centres, arenas, pools and entertainment/cultural venues. Limited exemptions will be made as allowed by the Government of Ontario’s regulations. Read the media release.
Local Spotlight
Georgina Made producer EddyBee & Tootsie's MESSHALL
Les and Michelle (EddyBee and Tootsie) decided to start their business after a life-changing experience at the beginning of 2021. They vowed to change their lives to do what makes them happy. Les, who owns a mill working business and has a large responsibility to others, needed to make a life change. Whenever Les and Michelle would go out to eat, they would always think “we can do that, or we can make this better at home.” Read more.

The Georgina Made online directory highlights the many makers, growers and manufacturers of products made in Georgina.
Featured Properties
Are you looking for the perfect site to start or expand your business? Connect with us. We can help you find a location that will meet your needs and is zoned for your industry.
Georgina
$4,500,000
Keswick
$2,988,888
Sutton
$2,699,999

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 Farmers' Market
Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. until Oct. 3 at the Link in Sutton (20849 Dalton Rd.).

Taste of Georgina
Explore Georgina's food culture from Sept. 10-26, when you can enjoy a prix fixe menu from participating restaurants throughout Georgina.

Georgina Studio Tour
Discover Georgina's talented artists during a two-day self-guided studio tour on Sept. 25 and 26 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Clearwater Farm Open House
Join Clearwater Farm for an Open House on Sat., Oct. 2 to enjoy food and drinks, music, fitness classes, art and more.

Georgina Marathon
Inaugural Georgina Marathon and half-marathon presented will see runners attempting their Boston qualifiers on a flat and scenic course on Sunday., Oct. 17.

Save the Date: 2021 Agri-Food Forum
The 2021 Municipal Agriculture Economic Development and Planning Forum is being hosted virtually by the Regional Municipality of York in collaboration with Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) and local municipalities from Nov. 3 and 4, 2021. 

This year’s theme is Innovation and Resiliency in the Agri-food Sector, focused on agri-tech, entrepreneurship, exploring innovative ways of doing business and building a resilient agri-food sector in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. This is a great opportunity for those with an interest in regional and local economic development and land use planning to learn, network and share experiences.

Local Business Support
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.
Georgina Business Support Programs
The Town's business support programs include grants, a development application fee rebate and a patio program. Learn more.
Professional Services Access Program
The Northern York Region Professional Services Access Program provides eligible businesses with access to free professional advice, including legal, financial, marketing and more. Learn more.
Digital Main Street programs
Digital Transformation Grant, Digital Service Squad Program and DMS shopHERE. All programs involve free support in helping businesses expand their digital presence. Learn more.
COVID-19 Response Fund
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.
Featured Funding Opportunities
Entrepreneurship and Innovation Fund Program
The program provides qualified small businesses and entrepreneurs with $10,000 in funding solutions that boost productivity and innovation across supply chains by leveraging AI. Learn more.
My Main Street
Support for new and existing businesses through funding for main street ambassadors, direct business non-repayable contributions, market research and business support programs. Learn more.
Tourism Relief Fund
Up to 50 per cent of eligible expenses to a maximum of $100K (non-repayable contributions). Learn more.
For more links to provincial and federal funding opportunities, visit mentorworks.ca.
Georgina Economic Development and Tourism