A well-trained workforce is agile and can easily adapt to change, making beneficial decisions more quickly. Many small businesses in Ontario recognize the need to provide employee training but are hesitant to provide it due to the increased costs it requires. The Canada-Ontario Job Grant (COJG) helps reduce this cost to companies by providing government…
An article recently published in The Hamilton Spectator identified the Ontario automotive sector as lacking leadership and on the verge of a decline. Although the Ontario industry was a top global contender, manufacturers of vehicles and automotive components in Ontario are facing downward pricing pressures from developing nations with low labour rates, and consumer preferences…
Technology’s ability to empower competitive businesses is essential in an increasingly globalized economy. Tracking the evolution of customers’ thoughts and behaviours, market competition, and other factors is a key element of business success and adaptability. To remain competitive into the future, Canadian businesses must have access to the tools and talent which enable them to…
Program Update: CME SMART Advanced Technologies for Global Growth program will not be accepting applications after July 31, 2016. Please contact a Proactive Funding Planner to discuss alternate business grants for your company. The CME SMART Advanced Technologies for Global Growth business grant is funded by the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) and…
When exporting, even small mistakes can end up costing your business significant time, financial resources, and opportunities abroad. Complying with all international standards for trade is essential to ensuring a sustainable export strategy, however many Canadian businesses are unaware of common mistakes which limit business growth in foreign countries. To ensure your business does not…
Canada has an abundance of agricultural focused businesses. From the farmers and producers that feed our cities, to the processors who modify food, to the organizations who help support food and agricultural research. As a result, and given Canada’s position as a leading agricultural producer, it’s not surprising to see the abundance of funding options…
The Province of Ontario is now accepting funding applications for the Small Communities Fund. Supported by both federal and Ontario provincial governments, each will be contributing $272 million to the fund over its 10 year lifecycle. Small Communities Fund (SCF) will assist the building and restoration of public infrastructure in communities with a population less…
Social media offers businesses an opportunity to engage directly with customers in a cost-effective way. Businesses can now advertise their products or services on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and other smaller social media platforms. For many companies, however, they don’t know where to begin, or how to use each platform effectively. As much as social media…
Waterloo, Ontario-based social messaging application Kik has become one of three Canadian companies to be valued at $1 billion or more. This valuation comes after the company received an investment of $50 million (USD) from Chinese internet giant Tencent. With over 240 million registered users around the world, Kik has gained a great following and by…
The 2015 federal election is arriving just as the Province of Ontario is showing signs of economic growth. Since this time last year, the province has added 67,000 jobs and leads all North American sub-national regions in attracting foreign investment – a main reason why Ontario is the leading province for economic activity across Canada….