From October 19 to 23, Small Business Week will be recognized across Canada. The annual celebration showcases the economic impact of small businesses and the valuable contributions they make to local communities.

In Dufferin County, small businesses represent 94 per cent of all businesses and are a vital part of our local economy. The owners and entrepreneurs leading these businesses foster innovation, create jobs and help build strong, vibrant communities across the region. Small Business Week is an opportunity to celebrate their dedication, creativity and resilience.

The essential role of small businesses underscores the need for dedicated support to help them succeed. Since 2003, the Orangeville and Area Small Business Enterprise Centre (SBEC) has offered guidance, resources and programs for new and existing businesses throughout Dufferin County. The SBEC’s free, confidential services include business planning support, business registration guidance, one-on-one consultations, workshops, mentorship and more.

During Small Business Week the business community is invited to learn more about the services offered by the SBEC and to leverage the support provided. Connecting with the SBEC can be done in many ways:

  • Subscribe to the e-newsletter: stay up to date on Orangeville’s local business community, including news, resources and upcoming opportunities, by subscribing to Business News, a monthly newsletter published by the Town of Orangeville’s Economic Development and Culture division: orangeville.ca/BusinessNewsletter
  • Follow us on Facebook: keep informed about local business news, milestones and grand openings, as well as workshops, learning opportunities and resources for small business owners: facebook.com/OrangevilleED
  • Register for workshops: explore upcoming workshops designed to help entrepreneurs build knowledge and connections: orangeville.ca/BusinessEvents
  • Meet local businesses: read stories about local business owners and learn why they chose to operate in Dufferin County. Many have received support through the SBEC: orangeville.ca/OurBusinessCommunity
  • Connect with the SBEC: complete the Business Connections form to receive information tailored to your business needs. Whether you are starting, growing or facing challenges in your business, the SBEC can help with free, confidential guidance and support: orangeville.ca/BusinessSupport

The Orangeville and Area SBEC is part of the Ontario Small Business Access (OSBAC) network. Programs and services are delivered locally by the Orangeville and Area SBEC and funded in partnership with the Government of Ontario. The Centre is also supported by the Town of Orangeville, Dufferin County, the Town of Shelburne and Community Futures of South Georgian Bay.

To learn more about the Orangeville and Area SBEC and its services, visit orangevillebusiness.ca