SmallBizTBay

 With the changes coming to the Ontario Business Registry  on October 19th, this means that if you are planning to file any work through the service via mail, that it should be mailed so that it is received by the office prior to September 17th, 2021. So, with mailing - you may want to double check how long it can take. https://mailchi.mp/ontario.ca/update-on-the-new-ontario-business-registry-9847889

 Starting September 22nd, Ontarians will have to provide to the owner of a private business proof of their vaccination status. The "passport" app will come in some time in October (they figure October 22nd), but until then, folks will have to have proof of their vaccinations (I've screenshotted my 2 vaccination receipts as a photo ready to be shown as needed) as well as photo ID to be permitted to enter certain businesses indoors. More information will be coming soon about what business owners will need to know. https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/1000779/ontario-to-require-proof-of-vaccination-in-select-settings Here are some highlights must have proof of vaccination (at least 14 days since last) businesses include: restaurant & bars (except patios) nightclubs (including patios) Meeting and event spaces facilities used for sports/fitness sporting events casinos, bingo halls and gaming establishments Concert halls, music festivals, theatres and cinemas Racing venues do

 In this world where your customers can be anywhere on the planet, reaching out to them is easier and easier.  But, are you ready to sell to them?  What does your 'pitch' look like? The Ministry of Government and Community Services has a webinar on "Pitch Preparation" on September 16th (10am - noon). https://www.eventreg.mgcs.gov.on.ca/?eventid=8E2A5EA9-01F7-4640-A474-B516938CF4A5&lang=en It's free to attend, and can help you out as you look to export. Here's their description:

 The Small Business Centres of Ontario are running a $50 gift card program with their "What Kind of Entrepreneur Are You" quiz. Answer a few questions on the site, and you'll be lined up with a famous Canadian entrepreneur that matches your answers. https://www.sbcontario.ca/canadian-entrepreneur-quiz/

 The "CAP" program is back open until Sept 2nd for applications for agricultural/food businesses. This time round there's a new category that even start up businesses could apply for; check out their eligibility: Eligible projects You can submit applications for these types of projects between August 5, 2021 and September 2, 2021: Type of Project Funding Available Who is Eligible **New** Evaluate your business potential Funding for 50 per cent up to $15,000 to plan for new business solutions Processors manufacturing in a facility with 199 employees or less New processor businesses Brand/intellectual property owners Food safety and traceability system improvements Funding for 50 per cent up to $75,000 for equipment, facility upgrades and more to improve food safety and traceability systems Processors with 100 employees or less that manufacture food for human consumption Food safety equipment Funding for 35 per cent up to $10,000 for equipment that will remove or reduce fo

 The Save On Energy program has incentives of up to $2,000 for new energy-efficient lighting upgrades for your small business. If your business has less than 50 employees and you haven't received this program in the past you can participate. https://saveonenergy.ca/en/For-Your-Small-Business/Programs-and-Incentives/Lighting