Economic Development and Tourism News
Georgina urges residents to shop local over the holiday season
The holiday season is a time of joy, family, hope and of course – gift giving. Much like every aspect of our lives, shopping for the holiday season will likely be different this year. People may be inclined to buy more online to stay home and flatten the curve, but many of our local small businesses need support as they pivot their operations and plan for recovery from closures and restrictions.

To help support our businesses, the Georgina Chamber of Commerce, with the support of the Town of Georgina, has launched a holiday campaign to stimulate local spending. The campaign includes a decorating contest for storefront businesses, a gift-giving guide and Holiday Bingo.

In support of the campaign, the Town of Georgina has created messaging that will be seen online and throughout Georgina leading up to the holiday season.
Top six reasons to start a business in Georgina
Choosing where to invest is one of the most important “to-dos” when starting or expanding a business. Municipalities in York Region are likely contenders, considering they are part of the third-largest business centre in Ontario and have highway access to all major urban centres in the Greater Toronto Area.

When looking at options costs, population density, economic growth, lifestyle, labour pool and other secondary factors are compared. In our latest blog, we dive into some of these factors and why Georgina should be on an investor's radar.
Business Retention & Recovery
Intake deadline for financial supports approaching
Nov. 13 is the next intake deadline for Georgina's COVID-19 business supports. With funding still available and only one more intake until the end of the year, businesses are encouraged to contact our office to inquire if any municipal grants or assistance programs can help with recovery efforts.

Apply online:

If our office is unable to support your recovery efforts, we will direct you to other organizations or levels of government that may be able to help. Connect with Sean Columbus, Georgina's Economic Development Officer, at scolumbus@georgina.ca.
Georgina's Pivot Planning Squad helps businesses go digital with online presence consultations
With many businesses having to close or limit their in-store operations due to COVID-19 restrictions, there is a heightened need to pivot, finding new ways to bring in revenue digitally. Georgina's Pivot Planning Squad is assisting small storefront and home-based businesses to do just that. 

An informal consultation in person or digitally allows our squad member to learn more about each business and its unique circumstances. An online audit is then provided to the business with suggestions on improving its presence to be found online.
New Business Spotlight
Roxy Rose
Roxy Rose offers mid-range brands such as Lululemon, Guess, Michael Kors, and Coach as well as high-end brands such as Burberry and Gucci at 30 - 50% off retail value. Read more.
VR Zone
After moving to Georgina from Toronto in 2018, the owners noticed a need for more entertainment options for youth and young adults in the community. Read more.
That's a Wrap
The owners of That's a Wrap started their business because they saw a demand in Georgina for healthy food options. Read more.
Are you a local business that has opened, reopened, applied for grants or had to pivot because of COVID-19? If so, we want to hear from you. Our business success stories are featured on our Facebook account, on our blog and in some cases, in our print newsletters. To learn more, email our team at ed@georgina.ca 
News and Resources
Gyms and dining establishments allowed to reopen under new Restrict classification
On Nov. 7, York Region moved to a new Restrict (orange) classification level as outlined by the Government of Ontario’s COVID-19 Response Framework: Keeping Ontario Safe and Open. Download.
No-cost trades training registration closes Nov. 23
GTTI Skilled Trades Institute's no-cost trades training will educate up to 200 local students a year. Interested participants can sign up for a virtual information session on Nov. 12 at 7 p.m. Sign up.
Submit your products for the Gift Giving Guide
The Georgina Chamber of Commerce is making it easier for businesses to showcase holiday goods and services with this handy shop local guide. Learn more.
Funding and training opportunity for small businesses in Georgina
The York Region Business Recovery Support Program is open for applications. The program provides training, workshops and the chance to apply for a grant of up to $5,000. Space is limited – apply by Nov. 27! Learn more.
Webinars
Joining a webinar may help you get the specific info and advice you need as you navigate this challenging time. York Link - York Region Economic Development has created a list of webinars from reputable sources that relate to all sectors and business needs.

Featured Properties
Keswick
$1,100,000
Keswick
$1,990,000
Sutton
$950,000

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.
Visit georgina.ca/business for up-to-date news and webinars on COVID-19.
Georgina Economic Development and Tourism