Hello Oro-Medonte Businesses and Operators!

🍂We hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend! 🍂
As we settle into the season, this issue of the Business Bulletin brings you a curated roundup of upcoming workshops, local happenings, and new opportunities to support your business journey. Whether you're looking to grow, connect, or explore something new, there's something here for you.

If anything catches your eye or sparks a question, feel free to reach out—we’re always happy to help and chat.

The Township of Oro-Medonte is inviting all local businesses—across every sector to participate in a Township-wide annual business questionnaire. It should take no more then 10 minutes to complete. Whether your operations involve retail, services, manufacturing, agriculture, tourism, or any other industry, your insights are essential.

Elevate Orillia - Save The Date!

We Welcome Hörmann North America to Oro-Medonte!

We’re excited to share that Hörmann North America has officially relocated its Canadian manufacturing operations from Barrie to a brand-new, state-of-the-art 120,000 sq. ft. facility at 21 Winstar Road in Oro-Medonte. Just minutes from Barrie, this modern space will house administration, sales and technical support, engineering, and advanced manufacturing all under one roof!

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Congrats to +OSB for 50 Years of Service & Welcome to Oro-Medonte!

Township staff and Council wish to extend our Congratulations to the team at +OSB - big changes and opportunity ahead, they recently Celebrated 50 years of Service, Opened their new in location in Oro-Medonte at the Line 4 S Guthrie Industrial Park and updated their brand! They are now working through recruitment of new employees.

You're Invited - Oro-Medonte Tourism Businesses!

We invite you to the Fall Oro-Medonte Tourism Sector Meeting – an opportunity to share your business and activities through roundtable updates and networking. Make connections and potential partnerships with other businesses and learn about what others have going on this coming winter.

Our Tourism Partners will be present to provide short updates about upcoming opportunities and marketing plans.

Council Highlights and Township Updates

From Council updates to local initiatives, the latest Township news is ready for you—click the link below to catch up on what’s new.

The Township’s Economic Development Division is looking to connect with individuals who have vacant development land, commercial lease opportunities, or businesses and/or properties for sale.

If you have property available, we’d love to hear from you. Help us respond to growing business inquiries and support local economic growth by reaching out today.

Calling All Oro-Medonte Businesses: Get Your Business Included in the NEW Online Directory!

Inclusion is based on businesses submitting their information for upload. Please take a moment to check for your business:Oro-Medonte.ca/BusinessListings.

2025 Simcoe County Immigrant Survey

The Simcoe County Local Immigration Partnership (SCLIP) has launched the 2025 Simcoe County Immigrant Survey. The SCLIP is conducting this survey to better understand the experiences, service priorities and gaps, and sense of belonging for immigrants living and working in Simcoe County, to help inform SCLIP how they can best support immigrant-serving community organizations across Simcoe County. You are encouraged to share this survey within your networks—your support is sincerely appreciated!

Ask an Ag-xpert - Cultivating the Future: Succession Planning in Agriculture

It's never too early to cultivate your future! As a farmer, agri-food processor, or agri-business owner, planning your business exit is one of the most important decisions you'll make. Whether you're looking to retire or explore a new passion, your business can continue thriving under new ownership when you plan ahead. During the November Ask an Ag-xpert session, get expert answers to your succession planning questions with Katie Hannon from the Orillia Area Community Development Corporation (CDC).

Happening Soon - Municipal Agriculture Economic Development and Planning Forum

The2025 Municipal Agriculture Economic Development and Planning Forum will be held in Simcoe County on October 22–23, 2025. The event brings together municipal leaders, planners, economic developers, farmers, and agri-business professionals to explore how land-use planning and economic development can support resilient rural communities and sustainable agri-food systems. Day one features an agri-business tour, while day two offers a full conference.

Register - Simcoe County Manufacturer's Forum

The Simcoe County Manufacturer’s Forum will be held on Thursday, November 13, 2025 at the Nottawasaga Inn and Conference Centre. This event will bring together industry leaders, innovators, and changemakers from 7:30am-1:00pm. Attendees will have the opportunity to network and participate in sessions exploring how manufacturers can adapt, evolve, and thrive in a rapidly changing world. Check out the Event Site for more information!

Closing Soon: SM Skillforce – 2025 Employer Survey

Simcoe Muskoka Skillforce (SM Skillforce) has launched their 2025 Employer Survey. The survey plays a key role in shaping the Local Labour Market Report.

Any support in helping amplify the initiative by sharing the attached flyer with your networks is appreciated. Everyone who completes the survey will be entered into a draw for a gift certificate for 18 holes at Simoro Golf Course. Draw date: October 30, 2025.

Grow Together With Simcoe County's Mentorship Program

Our Growing Together mentorship program is here to help. Connect with mentors or mentees looking to take their career to the next level. Sign up today to start your journey towards success!

Made in Simcoe County

In Canada, the manufacturing sector accounts for 1.7 million quality full-time, well-paying jobs. The sector has modernized, innovated, and become more high-tech, creating highly skilled jobs for designers, researchers,

programmers, engineers, technicians, and tradespeople. The large industrialized economy in Ontario is rapidly converging with the innovations being developed right here in Simcoe County!

Immense pride is taken in the craftsmanship and innovation that define Simcoe County. The community’s dedication and hard work are reflected in every product and service, making a significant impact both locally and globally. Celebrate the excellence and pride of being Made in Simcoe County. #WorkInSimcoeCounty

Regional Tariff Response Initiative

The Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI), delivered by Canada’s regional development agencies (RDAs), is part of the broader Government of Canada tariff response plan that includes $6.5 billion in new measures to protect Canadian businesses and workers. The initiative is intended to support businesses and sectors impacted by tariffs.

The $450-million RTRI helps businesses overcome trade disruptions and includes support for businesses in the steel and automotive industries. It invests in targeted, time-sensitive activities that boost productivity, lower costs, strengthen supply chain resilience, and open doors to new markets, enhancing overall competitiveness.

For more information, please see the RTRI program website and/or refer to the appropriate application guide:

• Regional Tariff Response Initiative for organizations: Application guide for organizations
• Regional Tariff Response Initiative for businesses: Application guide for businesses

Retail Modernization Project Grant (RMPG)

The RMPG is delivered by the Ontario Centre of Innovation on behalf of the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development Job Creation and Trade. It helps retail businesses with the purchase of effective digital equipment and software to help them transform and grow. Eligible retail businesses can receive up to $5,000 in support to adopt and implement digital technologies, hardware and software. The funds are available on a first come first served model, while funds last.

Funding Opportunity - Futurepreneur Canada

Futurpreneur Canada is a national non-profit organization that supports aspiring entrepreneurs aged 18–39 with loan financing, mentorship and resources to start or buy a business. The Ontario government recently announced that it is investing an additional $2 million in Futurpreneur Canada to help more young people develop and launch businesses and strengthen Ontario’s economy in the face of U.S. tariffs and economic uncertainty. The funding will support 320 young entrepreneurs.

Coming Up!

Stop wasting time on generic AI!

What if you could train AI to think, write, and market like you?

Join us October 29 for From Blank Page to Branded AI: How to Build Your First Custom GPT with AI strategist Teryl Brouillette. Walk away with:

• A clear roadmap to build your first branded GPT
• Tips for faster, more consistent marketing
• A step-by-step guide

The Community Capacity Building Fund is NOW OPEN!

The fund aims to strengthen our communities by supporting projects that:

Build capacity – Enhance growth or success within your organization.

Are innovative – Adopt new methods, products, services, or ideas.

Up to $3,000 per project, available to local non-profits & businesses

Deadline: October 27, 2025

Small Business Centre serving Barrie, Orillia, and Simcoe County

To Stay up-to-date on Corporate Initiatives please follow our social media channels:

Order Window Stickers to promote Dine.Shop.Explore Oro-Medonte. If you would like one of these stickers for your storefront windows or doors please let us know by sending a follow up email.

Join the FREE Certified Oro-Medonte Ambassador Program. Certificates are provided upon completion, for further information and to register visit: Ambassador Program (Community service hours are available for high school students who complete the program)

Encourage your staff to participate in the Oro-Medonte Ambassador Program. The program is FREE! It is a fantastic tool for New Hire Training, include in your onboarding programs. Complete the program in a day or spread out for a week, approximately 20mins per module.

If you have any Economic/Business Development Questions please reach out. If you are looking to start up, buy or sell a business and/or land please also make sure to connect with the Township office, we are happy to work with you and provide any assistance that we can including local resources and information.

Please also visit the Township website for resources and information:

• Economic Development | Township of Oro-Medonte – Property Listings, Local Job Postings, Economic Development Strategy, Community Profile, Business Resources and more!!

If you would like to add anyone else from your business to this email or unsubscribe to the Oro-Medonte Economic Development & Business Opportunities Emails please email jwhitley@oro-medonte.ca

Hello Oro-Medonte Businesses and Operators!

This issue of the Business Bulletin brings you a roundup of upcoming workshops, local happenings, and new opportunities designed to support your business journey. Whether you're looking to grow, connect, or explore something new, there's something here for you. If anything sparks your interest or raises a question, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help and happy to chat.

Date: Wednesday, October 15
Time: 7:00–9:30 AM
Location: The Heights Ski & Country Club

Join fellow Oro-Medonte businesses for a morning of connection, collaboration, and community building. This event will feature updates on local economic development, networking opportunities with Council, Township staff, and other businesses, plus inspiring insights from local speakers.

Whether you're in agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, services, or running a home-based business—this is a great opportunity to strengthen ties and grow together.

Theme: Building a stronger local economy, together.

✅ Local connections and resources
✅ Networking across all sectors
✅ Open to all Oro-Medonte businesses

Let’s build a resilient and thriving local economy—together!

Council Highlights and Township Updates

From Council updates to local initiatives, the latest Township news is ready for you—click the link below to catch up on what’s new.

Explore Fall in Oro-Medonte

The Township’s Economic Development Division is looking to connect with individuals who have vacant development land, commercial lease opportunities, or businesses and/or properties for sale.

If you have property available, we’d love to hear from you. Help us respond to growing business inquiries and support local economic growth by reaching out today.

Calling All Oro-Medonte Businesses: Get Your Business Included in the NEW Online Directory!

Inclusion is based on businesses submitting their information for upload. Please take a moment to check for your business:Oro-Medonte.ca/BusinessListings.

Ask an Ag-xpert - Cultivating the Future: Succession Planning in Agriculture

It's never too early to cultivate your future! As a farmer, agri-food processor, or agri-business owner, planning your business exit is one of the most important decisions you'll make. Whether you're looking to retire or explore a new passion, your business can continue thriving under new ownership when you plan ahead. During the November Ask an Ag-xpert session, get expert answers to your succession planning questions with Katie Hannon from the Orillia Area Community Development Corporation (CDC).

Municipal Agriculture Economic Development and Planning Forum

The2025 Municipal Agriculture Economic Development and Planning Forum will be held in Simcoe County on October 22–23, 2025. The event brings together municipal leaders, planners, economic developers, farmers, and agri-business professionals to explore how land-use planning and economic development can support resilient rural communities and sustainable agri-food systems. Day one features an agri-business tour, while day two offers a full conference.

Save The Date - Simcoe County Manufacturer's Forum

The Simcoe County Manufacturer’s Forum will be held on Thursday, November 13, 2025 at the Nottawasaga Inn and Conference Centre. This event will bring together industry leaders, innovators, and changemakers from 7:30am-1:00pm. Attendees will have the opportunity to network and participate in sessions exploring how manufacturers can adapt, evolve, and thrive in a rapidly changing world. Check out the Event Site for more information!

SM Skillforce – 2025 Employer Survey

Simcoe Muskoka Skillforce (SM Skillforce) has launched their 2025 Employer Survey. The survey plays a key role in shaping the Local Labour Market Report.

Any support in helping amplify the initiative by sharing the attached flyer with your networks is appreciated. Everyone who completes the survey will be entered into a draw for a gift certificate for 18 holes at Simoro Golf Course. Draw date: October 30, 2025.

Regional Tariff Response Initiative

The Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI), delivered by Canada’s regional development agencies (RDAs), is part of the broader Government of Canada tariff response plan that includes $6.5 billion in new measures to protect Canadian businesses and workers. The initiative is intended to support businesses and sectors impacted by tariffs.

The $450-million RTRI helps businesses overcome trade disruptions and includes support for businesses in the steel and automotive industries. It invests in targeted, time-sensitive activities that boost productivity, lower costs, strengthen supply chain resilience, and open doors to new markets, enhancing overall competitiveness.

For more information, please see the RTRI program website and/or refer to the appropriate application guide:

• Regional Tariff Response Initiative for organizations: Application guide for organizations
• Regional Tariff Response Initiative for businesses: Application guide for businesses

Ontario Government launches its annual Level Up! Career Fairs

Ontario’s Level Up! career fairs return this fall, running for a total of 29 days across 12 communities from September 17 to December 12, 2025. With over 200 exhibitors, the fairs give students hands-on opportunities to explore various skilled trades and learn about careers in skilled trades. Interested students from grades 7 to 12 are encouraged to reach out to their school board’s Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) recruiter, a teacher or school guidance counsellor to learn more about the event and registration.

Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs Grant Program

Applications for the 2025-2026 Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE) grant program are now open. The RAISE program is designed to support Indigenous, Black and other racialized entrepreneurs who reside and operate their business in Ontario. This program offers business development training, access to networking opportunities, and culturally responsive and tailored business coaching. In addition, it provides eligible entrepreneurs with a one-time grant of $10,000.

Applications close on October 1, 2025 on a first come, first served basis!

Retail Modernization Project Grant (RMPG)

The RMPG is delivered by the Ontario Centre of Innovation on behalf of the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development Job Creation and Trade. It helps retail businesses with the purchase of effective digital equipment and software to help them transform and grow. Eligible retail businesses can receive up to $5,000 in support to adopt and implement digital technologies, hardware and software. The funds are available on a first come first served model, while funds last.

Funding Opportunity - Futurepreneur Canada

Futurpreneur Canada is a national non-profit organization that supports aspiring entrepreneurs aged 18–39 with loan financing, mentorship and resources to start or buy a business. The Ontario government recently announced that it is investing an additional $2 million in Futurpreneur Canada to help more young people develop and launch businesses and strengthen Ontario’s economy in the face of U.S. tariffs and economic uncertainty. The funding will support 320 young entrepreneurs.

Stop wasting time on generic AI!

What if you could train AI to think, write, and market like you?

Join us October 29 for From Blank Page to Branded AI: How to Build Your First Custom GPT with AI strategist Teryl Brouillette. Walk away with:

• A clear roadmap to build your first branded GPT
• Tips for faster, more consistent marketing
• A step-by-step guide

The Community Capacity Building Fund is NOW OPEN!

The fund aims to strengthen our communities by supporting projects that:

Build capacity – Enhance growth or success within your organization.

Are innovative – Adopt new methods, products, services, or ideas.

Up to $3,000 per project, available to local non-profits & businesses

Deadline: October 27, 2025

Small Business Centre serving Barrie, Orillia, and Simcoe County

To Stay up-to-date on Corporate Initiatives please follow our social media channels:

Order Window Stickers to promote Dine.Shop.Explore Oro-Medonte. If you would like one of these stickers for your storefront windows or doors please let us know by sending a follow up email.

Join the FREE Certified Oro-Medonte Ambassador Program. Certificates are provided upon completion, for further information and to register visit: Ambassador Program (Community service hours are available for high school students who complete the program)

Encourage your staff to participate in the Oro-Medonte Ambassador Program. The program is FREE! It is a fantastic tool for New Hire Training, include in your onboarding programs. Complete the program in a day or spread out for a week, approximately 20mins per module.

If you have any Economic/Business Development Questions please reach out. If you are looking to start up, buy or sell a business and/or land please also make sure to connect with the Township office, we are happy to work with you and provide any assistance that we can including local resources and information.

Please also visit the Township website for resources and information:

• Economic Development | Township of Oro-Medonte – Property Listings, Local Job Postings, Economic Development Strategy, Community Profile, Business Resources and more!!

If you would like to add anyone else from your business to this email or unsubscribe to the Oro-Medonte Economic Development & Business Opportunities Emails please email jwhitley@oro-medonte.ca