In the face of economic uncertainties and ongoing challenges, Canadian small business owners remain remarkably optimistic about the future. Despite the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and concerns over rising interest rates and inflation, a recent survey paints a picture of resilience and forward-looking optimism within the small business community.  Confidence Amidst Challenges  The survey findings reveal that a substantial majority (71%) of Canadian small business owners and self-employed professionals are confident that their businesses will thrive throughout the remai ..read more

The Ontario Creates – Film Fund – Development Stream is intended to increase domestic feature film production in Ontario. The Film Fund supports Ontario producers of projects across genres with both industrial and cultural benefits.   Ontario Creates measures the results of the Film Fund primarily based on net benefit from the project to the province, such as return on investment and jobs created in the Ontario film industry.  The fund aims to achieve three primary objectives:  Increase Investment and Jobs in Ontario: By supporting Ontario-based feature film production co ..read more

Ontario’s energy landscape is poised for a transformative shift with the announcement that BWX Technologies, Inc. (BWXT) is investing $80 million to expand its nuclear manufacturing plant in Cambridge. This strategic investment signals a significant step forward in Ontario’s commitment to reliable, affordable, and clean energy, while also catalyzing economic growth and job creation across the region.  “Cutting-edge nuclear energy technology from leaders like BWXT will help Ontario to compete on the global economic stage. The 250 good-paying jobs and added production capacity this invest ..read more

As the world intensifies its focus on environmental sustainability, Canada has emerged as a leader in clean energy and emissions reduction initiatives. With significant government backing, the nation is poised to accelerate its transition towards a greener future. At the forefront of this movement are the Clean Growth Hub and the Cleantech Investment Tax Credits (ITC), key pillars driving Canada’s clean growth agenda.   With the 2024 Federal Budget, the Canadian government clearly emphasized their interest in funding and implementing clean-energy and net-zero initiatives from provin ..read more

In a significant stride towards bolstering local manufacturing in Southwestern Ontario, the Ontario government proudly announced its support of $125 million in investments by four esteemed companies. These expansions, spanning the automotive and food processing sectors, are poised to create 153 new jobs in Windsor and Leamington, injecting vitality and economic growth into the region’s landscape.  “Windsor and Leamington have a proud history of manufacturing excellence, and thanks to continued investment in the region, we are confident that our targeted approach to fostering stability a ..read more

According to the Canadian Federal Budget 2024, a net-zero economy is a high priority for the federal government. Even at the provincial level, all budgets stated a strong focus on sustainability and clean energy. Investing in Canada’s minerals sector industry is an important activity for Canadian businesses and governments alike, now more than ever. In a dynamic month filled with groundbreaking developments, Canada’s mineral exploration and mining sectors have reached new heights, bolstered by strategic government investments and collaborative partnerships. In this blog, we will delve into th ..read more

Canada’s cybercrime landscape has undergone a significant transformation. Once confined to the shadows of the black market, cybercrime has now grown into a sprawling network of sophisticated organizations. This evolution is propelled by the exponential growth of e-commerce and digital transactions, rendering cybercrime one of the most lucrative criminal enterprises globally.  In this dynamic digital environment, small businesses find themselves particularly vulnerable to emerging cyber threats. Now, more than ever, prioritizing investments in cybersecurity education is essential. The rap ..read more

The Dairy Processing Modernization Initiative is available to processors of cow, goat, sheep, and water buffalo milk. Eligible applicants can receive up to $200,000 in cost-share support to upgrade their facilities. This program aims to assist dairy processors in adopting modern technologies to enhance production efficiency and maintain high food safety standards.  The initiative covers expenses related to purchasing and installing new equipment, as well as any associated training costs. Part of the Supply Chain Assurance Program (SCAP), this supports the Ontario government’s objective t ..read more

In this blog, we delve into the diverse array of policies, programs, and financial commitments designed to bolster Canada’s economy, foster innovation, support sustainable growth, and enhance the well-being of Canadians from coast to coast. From significant investments in research and clean technology to targeted funding for workforce development and regional economic growth, Budget 2024 reflects a forward-thinking approach aimed at addressing key challenges while unlocking opportunities for prosperity and progress.  With many Canadians facing economic uncertainty, rising costs, and hous ..read more

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) has recently announced a new funding program, the Supply Management Processing Investment Fund (SMPIF) to support investments in processing facilities that improve productivity and efficiency through the acquisition of new automated equipment and technology.  SMPIF assists processors of supply-managed commodities in adjusting to market shifts arising from the implementation of trade agreements such as the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnershi ..read more