A year ago, most anyone in tech would have said that startups needed to be located in a hub like Toronto, if they wanted to succeed. The foundations for a successful launch included support, accelerators, mentors, investors, employees and even customers. Those could all only be found in large centres and cities. Fast forward to…
“Taking a bright idea and turning it into a thriving, sustainable company is tough. An entrepreneur might reap what they sow, but they first need fertile ground.” ~ Takara Small Creating a viable startup is about a lot more than planting a seed, watering it and waiting. There is a lot of support, nurturing…
For any small town that is growing, there are two issues that need to be addressed at the outset, to make sure that they don’t become bigger problems down the road: public transportation and urban sprawl. Look at most any growing community in Ontario and you’ll see sprawl: bedroom communities and suburbs popping up…
This is the story of a small town in Canada, taking a classic underdog journey to stand alongside the big tech hubs of the world. Drive anywhere beyond the GTA in Ontario and you’ll see a multitude of small towns. Some are so small that if you blink as you drive along ‘Main Street’,…
It’s no secret that small business owners and entrepreneurs are left without the types of support systems their 9 to 5 colleagues may enjoy. COVID-19 has also added a level of stress and uncertainty that can create feelings of helplessness and doubt, as well as other serious impacts on mental health. A recent study conducted…
Two members from Innisfil’s Economic Development team, Dan Taylor and Jelmer Stegink recently had a great interview on Govlaunch‘s new podcast series. Govlaunch is a “wiki” for local government innovation. It’s about how Innisfil is embracing change and innovation, and how local governments can shift their approach to problem solving. Check out the episode on…
As of July 13, 2020 you will be required to wear a face covering in all indoor public spaces (businesses, organizations and public transit systems) in Simcoe County and the District of Muskoka. Get a downloadable and printable Mandatory Mask sign for your business here. The following FAQ is from the Simcoe Muskoka District Health…
Innisfil, ON – The Town of Innisfil continues to support local businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic, by launching the COVID-19 Emergency Patios Program. With the announcement that Simcoe Muskoka is moving into Stage 2 of the Province’s reopening framework, local restaurants and bars will be allowed to open for dining in outdoor areas as of…
The unique experiences of some of our entrepreneurs will inspire you! Working with your spouse is an interesting twist on the entrepreneurial journey. It’s not for everyone, but if it works, it’s a great way to blend life and work in an almost seamless effort. Working with a partner makes running a business—particularly a new…
There are a few things that are essential to life: education, healthcare, and housing. Without these things, it’s very difficult to grow a healthy and robust community of residents, businesses and services. If you don’t have these things in your neighbourhood, families will eventually leave. An affordable home, schools and the ability to be healthy…