[[“Year”,”Award”,”Company”,”Name”,”Finalist/Recipient”],[“2007″,”Builder Hall of Fame”,”Walker Industries”,””,”Recipient”],[“2007″,”Business Person Volunteer of the Year”,”Verge Insurance Group”,”Mark Sherk”,”Recipient”],[“2007″,”Business Person Volunteer of the Year”,”Desjardins Payroll & HR Services”,”Mary Margaret Murphy”,”Finalist”],[“2007″,”Business Person Volunteer of the Year”,”Perry’s Auto Shop”,”Perry Carey”,”Finalist”],[“2007″,”Entrepreneur of the Year”,”Associated Brownfields”,”Dr. Andy Panko”,”Recipient”],[“2007″,”Entrepreneur of the Year”,”Boot Shop, The”,”Larry Morrison”,”Finalist”],[“2007″,”Entrepreneur of the Year”,”Gone to Pieces Quilt Shop”,”Nancy Nigh”,”Finalist”],[“2007″,”Entrepreneur of the Year”,”Trails End Company Inc.”,”David & Patty Winninger”,”Finalist”],[“2007″,”Excellence in Business 11 to 50 Employees”,”Lincoln Fabrics”,”Harry Akamphuber”,”Recipient”],[“2007″,”Excellence in Business 11 to 50 Employees”,”All-Source Heat Treating”,”Wayne Howard”,”Finalist”],[“2007″,”Excellence in Business 11 to 50 Employees”,”Draftcon Calamar”,”Gary Ulias”,”Finalist”],[“2007″,”Excellence in Business 11 to 50 Employees”,”InTouch Communications”,”Tammy Taylor”,”Finalist”],[“2007″,”Excellence in Business 51 Employees or more”,”Abitibi Consolidated”,”Marc MacDonald”,”Recipient”],[“2007″,”Excellence in Business 51 Employees or more”,”Beatties Basics”,”Ted Hoxie”,”Finalist”],[“2007″,”Excellence in Business 51 Employees or more”,”PenFinancial Credit Union”,”Bob Watson”,”Finalist”],[“2007″,”Excellence in Business 51 Employees or more”,”Stokes Seeds”,”Wayne Gale”,”Finalist”],[“2007″,”Excellence in Business up to 10 Employees”,”Perry’s Auto Shop”,”Perry Carey”,”Recipient”],[“2007″,”Excellence in Business up to 10 Employees”,”Keefer Mansion Inn”,”Phil Ritchie”,”Finalist”],[“2007″,”Excellence in Business up to 10 Employees”,”Mouradian Group, The”,”Ted Mouradian”,”Finalist”],[“2007″,”Excellence in Business up to 10 Employees”,”Primecast Manufacturing”,”Bill Schwenger”,”Finalist”],[“2007″,”Innovation & Technology Award”,”Tersano (Canada) Inc.”,”Steve Hengsperger”,”Recipient”],[“2007″,”Innovation & Technology Award”,”Niagara Windpower”,”Mike Fournier”,”Finalist”],[“2007″,”Innovation & Technology Award”,”Strategem / CME Direct”,”Robert Ykema”,”Finalist”],[“2007″,”Lifetime Achievement”,”Fowler Enterprises”,”Ken Fowler”,”Recipient”],[“2007″,”New Business”,”Growth Associates”,”Verne Milot”,”Finalist”],[“2007″,”New Business”,”Sweet Rage Bakery & YUMporium”,”Lara Panusa & Lisa Bunting”,”Finalist”],[“2007″,”New Business”,”Trigger Marketing Works”,”Larry Anderson”,”Finalist”],[“2007″,”Outstanding New Business”,”Personal Optical”,”Rachill Campbell”,”Recipient”],[“2007″,”Young Entrepreneur”,”Symetric Productions”,”Joe Jones”,”Recipient”],[“2007″,”Young Entrepreneur”,”Dairy Queen”,”Dimitrios Ladas”,”Finalist”],[“2007″,”Young Entrepreneur”,”Ideal Plubing & Heating”,”Mark Sanecki”,”Finalist”]]
Search Results for: bill 148
2022 Niagara Business Achievement Award Recipients
[[“Year”,”Award”,”Company”,”Name”,”Finalist/Recipient”],[“2022″,”Builder of the Year”,”Merit Contractors Niagara”,”Dennis Kowalchuk, Dave Harvey, the late Vern Thorpe”,”Recipient”],[“2022″,”Business of the Year”,”CAA Niagara”,”Marrianne Wilson”,”Recipient”],[“2022″,”Business of the Year”,”Kraun Electric”,”Dawn Jones”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Business of the Year”,”Merani Hotel Group”,”Deanna DiFilippo”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Business of the Year”,”Shaw Festival”,”Tim Jennings”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Community Leadership”,”Retired (Formerly Haver & Boecker)”,”Caroline Mann”,”Recipient”],[“2022″,”Entrepreneur of the Year”,”Schenck Farms & Greenhouses”,”Bill Schenck”,”Recipient”],[“2022″,”Environmental Leadership Award”,”Bench Brewing Company”,”Matt Giffen”,”Recipient”],[“2022″,”Environmental Leadership Award”,”Goodwill Niagara”,”Bob Romeo”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Environmental Leadership Award”,”Spirit in Niagara Small Batch Distillers”,”Kacey Lang”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Excellence in Agribusiness, Farming & Rural Achievement”,”Always June Organic Farm”,”June Wakil”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Excellence in Agribusiness, Farming & Rural Achievement”,”Sunrise Greenhouses”,”Rodney Bierhuizen”,”Recipient”],[“2022″,”Excellence in Business Award: 26 Employees or More”,”Days Inn & Suites”,”Deanna DiFilippo”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Excellence in Business Award: 26 Employees or More”,”Niagara Regional Broadband Network Limited (NRBN)”,”Geoff Heinen”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Excellence in Business Award: 26 Employees or More”,”PBI – Printing By Innovation Inc.”,”Dale Smith”,”Recipient”],[“2022″,”Excellence in Business Award: Up to 25 Employees”,”Baker Tilly Niagara LLP”,”Rick Nero”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Excellence in Business Award: Up to 25 Employees”,”Giant Shoe Creative Agency”,”Jessica Boulay”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Excellence in Business Award: Up to 25 Employees”,”Hero Dog Treats”,”Sierra Scholtens”,”Recipient”],[“2022″,”Excellence in Business Award: Up to 25 Employees”,”Lofttan”,”April Mitchell-Boudreau”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Excellence in Business Award: Up to 25 Employees”,”Movement Unlimited Inc”,”Allison Kares”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Excellence in Business: Not-for-Profit Award”,”Community Crew”,”Sarah Pritula”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Excellence in Business: Not-for-Profit Award”,”Niagara SPCA and Humane Society”,”Tyler Greer”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Excellence in Business: Not-for-Profit Award”,”St. John Ambulance”,”Marcia Young”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Excellence in Business: Not-for-Profit Award”,”The Norm Foster Theatre Festival”,”Emily Oriold”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Excellence in Business: Not-for-Profit Award”,”Welland Public Library”,”Julianne Brunet”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Excellence in Manufacturing”,”FSD Robotics”,”Dave Burgess”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Excellence in Manufacturing”,”General Motors St. Catharines Propulsion Plant”,”Samantha Hoodless”,”Recipient”],[“2022″,”Excellence in Tourism and Hospitality”,”Inn On The Twenty”,”Christophe Hermez”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Excellence in Tourism and Hospitality”,”Niagara West Tourism Association”,”Brian Purdy”,”Recipient”],[“2022″,”Excellence in Tourism and Hospitality”,”Old Stone Inn Boutique Hotel”,”Ann marie Nitsopoulos”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Innovative Leaders Award”,”Great Wolf Lodge”,”Keith Simmons”,”Recipient”],[“2022″,”Outstanding New Business”,”Captains Cabin Caf\u00e9 Inc.”,”Vanessa Watchorn”,”Recipient”],[“2022″,”Outstanding New Business”,”Ears Canada”,”Chris McLennan”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Outstanding New Business”,”InspireClean Inc.”,”Aminah Vieira”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Outstanding New Business”,”McKnight Operational Consulting”,”Nikki McKnight”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Outstanding New Business”,”Niagara Orthopaedic Institute Fonthill”,”Ryan Walker”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Outstanding New Business”,”Oggi Spa”,”Adriana Del Vasto”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Technology & Innovation Award”,”Dine Niagara”,”Tim Empringham”,”Recipient”],[“2022″,”Technology & Innovation Award”,”Intuitive Shipping Inc”,”Sharon Reeds”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Technology & Innovation Award”,”McKnight Inclusive Design”,”Bex McKnight”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Young Professional Award”,”Arienne Good”,”Arienne Good”,”Recipient”],[“2022″,”Young Professional Award”,”Daniela Escobar”,”Daniela Escobar”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Young Professional Award”,”Jarod Bleijerveld”,”Jarod Bleijerveld”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Young Professional Award”,”Josh Knoester”,”Josh Knoester”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Young Professional Award”,”Kailene Jackson”,”Kailene Jackson”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Young Professional Award”,”Ryan Walker”,”Ryan Walker”,”Finalist”],[“2022″,”Young Professional Award”,”Stephanie Unsworth”,”Stephanie Unsworth”,”Finalist”]]
2017 Niagara Business Achievement Award Recipients
[[“Year”,”Award”,”Company”,”Name”,”Finalist/Recipient”],[“2017″,”Business of the Year”,”LJM Developments (Grimsby) Inc.”,”Liaquat Mian”,”Recipient”],[“2017″,”Business of the Year”,”Brian Cullen Motors Inc.”,”Bob Cullen”,”Finalist”],[“2017″,”Business of the Year”,”Enterprise Inc.”,”Stephen Murdoch”,”Finalist”],[“2017″,”Business Person Volunteer of the Year”,”Heelis, Little, Almas, LLP”,”Patrick Little”,”Recipient”],[“2017″,”Community Leadership”,”YMCA Niagara”,”Janet St. Amand”,”Recipient”],[“2017″,”Environmental Leadership”,”Habitat for Humanity Niagara ReStore”,”Alastair Davis”,”Recipient”],[“2017″,”Environmental Leadership”,”Niagara Casinos”,”Steve Stone”,”Finalist”],[“2017″,”Environmental Leadership”,”Niagara College”,”Taryn Wilkinson”,”Finalist”],[“2017″,”Excellence in Business 11 to 50 Employees”,”Manor Cleaners”,”Blair Burgess”,”Recipient”],[“2017″,”Excellence in Business 11 to 50 Employees”,”Skyzone”,”Jen Haynes”,”Finalist”],[“2017″,”Excellence in Business 11 to 50 Employees”,”Soundbox Productions”,”Jamie Altena”,”Finalist”],[“2017″,”Excellence in Business 51 Employees or more”,”Convergys CMG Canada Ltd.”,”Kimberly Kelly”,”Recipient”],[“2017″,”Excellence in Business 51 Employees or more”,”Grant Thornton LLP”,”Sabrina Metsala”,”Finalist”],[“2017″,”Excellence in Business up to 10 Employees”,”AA Taxi Niagara”,”Armando Navarro”,”Recipient”],[“2017″,”Excellence in Business up to 10 Employees”,”A.S. Security & Surveillance Inc”,”Tony Stayrer”,”Finalist”],[“2017″,”Excellence in Business up to 10 Employees”,”WE DRIVE Designated Drivers Inc.”,”Richard Prudhomme”,”Finalist”],[“2017″,”Excellence in Manufacturing”,”Hy-Grade Precast Concrete”,”Kevan Peters”,”Recipient”],[“2017″,”Excellence in Manufacturing”,”HeroDehydratedDogTreats Inc.”,”Annemarie Bolle”,”Finalist”],[“2017″,”Excellence in Manufacturing”,”Niagara Pallet & Recyclers Ltd.”,”Fred Vrugteveen”,”Finalist”],[“2017″,”Excellence in Tourism”,”Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours”,”Jessica DiCarlantonio”,”Recipient”],[“2017″,”Excellence in Tourism”,”Twenty Valley Tourism Association”,”Kris Smith”,”Finalist”],[“2017″,”Excellence in Tourism”,”Weinkeller”,”Chris Dobson”,”Finalist”],[“2017″,”International Business Award”,”The Foreign Affair Winery”,”Kelly Josephson”,”Recipient”],[“2017″,”International Business Award”,”Curexe (Smartpay Inc.)”,”Johnathan Holland”,”Finalist”],[“2017″,”International Business Award”,”Desks Plus Inc.”,”Marc Forbes”,”Finalist”],[“2017″,”Lifetime Achievement”,”Niagara Health System”,”Dr. Robin Williams”,”Recipient”],[“2017″,”Outstanding New Business”,”Edible Options”,”Jen Kuzyk”,”Recipient”],[“2017″,”Outstanding New Business”,”Furtney Crysler LLP – Chartered Accountants”,”Bill Crysler”,”Finalist”],[“2017″,”Outstanding New Business”,”Lindsay’s Gourmet Compound Butter”,”Lindsay Rose”,”Finalist”],[“2017″,”Outstanding New Business”,”LV Physio”,”Lisa Vandenberk”,”Finalist”],[“2017″,”Technology & Innovation”,”The Violin Group”,”Michael Violin”,”Recipient”],[“2017″,”Technology & Innovation”,”Clickback”,”Kyle Tkachuk”,”Finalist”],[“2017″,”Technology & Innovation”,”Directworx”,”Layne Gobeil”,”Finalist”],[“2017″,”Technology & Innovation”,”Rel8ed.to”,”Bob Lytle”,”Finalist”],[“2017″,”Young Professional of the Year”,”REMAX Garden City Realty Inc. Brokerage”,”Karl Vanderkuip”,”Recipient”],[“2017″,”Young Professional of the Year”,”Durward Jones Barkwell & Company LLP (DJB)”,”Elise Collins”,”Finalist”],[“2017″,”Young Professional of the Year”,”The Post Office – Shannon Passero”,”Alicia Vizzari”,”Finalist”]]
2016 Niagara Business Achievement Award Recipients
[[“Year”,”Award”,”Company”,”Name”,”Finalist/Recipient”],[“2016″,”Builder of the Year”,”Keefer Developments”,”Phil Ritchie”,”Recipient”],[“2016″,”Business of the Year”,”White Oaks Conference Resort & Spa”,”Ameer Wakil”,”Recipient”],[“2016″,”Business of the Year”,”Book Depot”,”Bill Van Vliet”,”Finalist”],[“2016″,”Business of the Year”,”Homes by Hendriks”,”Yvonne Hendriks”,”Finalist”],[“2016″,”Community Leadership”,”Niagara Health System”,”Dr. Suzanne Johnston”,”Recipient”],[“2016″,”Excellence in Business 11 to 50 Employees”,”Future Access Inc.”,”Bill Janzen”,”Recipient”],[“2016″,”Excellence in Business 11 to 50 Employees”,”Associated Engineering (Ont.) Ltd.”,”Rick Hein”,”Finalist”],[“2016″,”Excellence in Business 11 to 50 Employees”,”Enviro-Niagara Heating & Air Conditioning”,”Mike Konderka”,”Finalist”],[“2016″,”Excellence in Business 51 Employees or more”,”Kraun Electric”,”Aaron Jones”,”Recipient”],[“2016″,”Excellence in Business 51 Employees or more”,”Enbridge”,”Sarah Smith”,”Finalist”],[“2016″,”Excellence in Business 51 Employees or more”,”Sitel”,”Glenn McCormack”,”Finalist”],[“2016″,”Excellence in Business up to 10 Employees”,”Big Country Raw Food”,”Geraldine Brouwer”,”Recipient”],[“2016″,”Excellence in Business up to 10 Employees”,”Cairnwood Homes”,”Julie Shields”,”Finalist”],[“2016″,”Excellence in Business up to 10 Employees”,”National Records Management”,”Jane Lockard”,”Finalist”],[“2016″,”Excellence in Business up to 10 Employees”,”Provisions Food Company”,”Lori Elstone”,”Finalist”],[“2016″,”Excellence in Environmental Leadership”,”Pinchin Ltd.”,”Sean Stewart”,”Recipient”],[“2016″,”Excellence in Environmental Leadership”,”GFL Environmental Inc.”,”Marsha Guy”,”Finalist”],[“2016″,”Excellence in Environmental Leadership”,”Hydro Metal Recycling”,”Rob Peaire”,”Finalist”],[“2016″,”Excellence in International Business”,”WP Warehousing Inc.”,”Kevin Jacobi”,”Recipient”],[“2016″,”Excellence in International Business”,”Alexandria Professional”,”Sara Krstevski”,”Finalist”],[“2016″,”Excellence in International Business”,”Hornblower Niagara Cruises”,”Lee Carr”,”Finalist”],[“2016″,”Excellence in Manufacturing”,”Ladson Creative Millworks”,”Jon Willms”,”Recipient”],[“2016″,”Excellence in Manufacturing”,”Metal Supermarkets”,”Farley Cotton”,”Finalist”],[“2016″,”Excellence in Manufacturing”,”Niagara Granite & Marble Ltd.”,”Sammy Pham”,”Finalist”],[“2016″,”Excellence in Technology & Innovation”,”Niagara Peninsula Energy Inc.”,”Sue Forcier”,”Recipient”],[“2016″,”Excellence in Technology & Innovation”,”360 Growers Inc.”,”Achamma Mathews”,”Finalist”],[“2016″,”Excellence in Technology & Innovation”,”Commercial Digital Print”,”Ken Hildebrand”,”Finalist”],[“2016″,”Excellence in Tourism”,”Niagara Sport Commission”,”Bram Cotton”,”Recipient”],[“2016″,”Excellence in Tourism”,”Niagara Outlet Collection”,”Joanne Ross”,”Finalist”],[“2016″,”Excellence in Tourism”,”Safari Niagara”,”Tim Tykolis”,”Finalist”],[“2016″,”Lifetime Achievement”,”Lancaster, Brooks and Welch”,”Rob Welch”,”Recipient”],[“2016″,”Outstanding New Business”,”ProActive Chiropractic & Training”,”Scott Macpherson”,”Recipient”],[“2016″,”Outstanding New Business”,”Futbol Niagara”,”Ivan Klassen”,”Finalist”],[“2016″,”Outstanding New Business”,”Niagara Region Money Coaches”,”Trevor Van Nest”,”Finalist”],[“2016″,”Volunteer Business Person of the Year”,”C. R. Smith Financial, Wise Guys”,”Doug Smith”,”Recipient”],[“2016″,”Young Professional of the Year”,”Hotel Dieu Shaver Health and Rehabilitation Foundation”,”Mary Jane Johnson”,”Recipient”],[“2016″,”Young Professional of the Year”,”Kemp Financial Group Inc.”,”Jessica Kemp”,”Finalist”],[“2016″,”Young Professional of the Year”,”Leadership Niagara”,”Mario DeDivitiis”,”Finalist”]]
Daily Update: February 1
In this edition:
- February is Black History Month
- Over 18,900 unfilled mfg. jobs in Ontario, high concentration in Hamilton-Niagara: CME
- Thorold recruiting committee and board members for current Council term
- TOES Niagara, Brock partnering on project aimed at combatting human trafficking
- Dr. Catherine Zahn appointed Chair of Ontario Health
- NotL Council OKs 12 homes at Tawny Ridge, rejects townhouses
- Focus on Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
February is Black History Month
Every February, people across Canada participate in Black History Month events and festivities that honour the legacy of Black people in Canada and their communities.
The 2024 theme for Black History Month is: “Black Excellence: A Heritage to Celebrate; a Future to Build”. This theme celebrates the rich past and present contributions and accomplishments of Black people in Canada, while aspiring to embrace new opportunities for the future.
“This month is an opportunity to celebrate these agents of change and recognize their achievements,” said Canadian Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities Kamal Khera. “At the same time, it also offers us the chance to rededicate ourselves to addressing the systemic barriers that continue to be a daily reality for Black Canadians.”
“Black History Month is a chance to recognize and celebrate the remarkable contributions Ontario’s Black community has made to our province from the very beginning,” said Ontario Premier Doug Ford. “Ontario is proud of the legacy and impact that Black residents have on every part of our society.”
The Grimsby Museum and Public Library have a series of events and activities planned for residents.
Events and activities throughout February will celebrate Black History Month/African Heritage Month at Brock University.
Over 18,900 unfilled mfg. jobs in Ontario, concentrated in GTA, Kitchener-Waterloo, and Hamilton-Niagara: CME
CME says that Ontario manufacturers continue to face acute workforce needs with 18,900 jobs currently unfilled, over 7,000 confirmed new manufacturing jobs about to open up and significant retirements expected between now and 2028.
Breaking this down by region, the Greater Toronto Area, Kitchener-Waterloo and the Hamilton-Niagara region are facing the largest number of vacancies and are expected to face even more pressure as new manufacturing jobs, especially in the auto and electric vehicle sector, are about to come available, according to data from Statistics Canada and analysis by Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME).
Thorold recruiting committee and board members for current Council term
The City of Thorold is recruiting passionate Thorold residents to join a committee or board of management for the remaining 2022 to 2026 term. Recruitment is taking place for the following:
- Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee
- Environment, Climate Change and Biodiversity Advisory Committee
- Heritage Advisory Committee
- Allanburg Community Centre Board of Management
Applicants for appointment must be at least 18 years of age and either a land owner, tenant or business owner in the City of Thorold.
TOES Niagara, Brock partnering on project aimed at combatting human trafficking
A new collaborative community project is being launched to help combat human trafficking in Niagara.
TOES (Tools of Empowerment for Success) Niagara is working in partnership with Brock University Professional and Continuing Studies to develop a code of conduct to increase awareness of human trafficking and provide resources, including prevention strategies, for hospitality and tourism businesses and organizations in the region.
The Welland-based non-profit organization — which supports and promotes the empowerment of women, with a special focus on marginalized and racialized women and youth — has received funding from the Government of Canada’s Women and Gender Equality (WAGE) office to bring the project to fruition.
Dr. Catherine Zahn appointed Chair of Ontario Health
Today, Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, recognized Bill Hatanaka’s tremendous 5-year term as chair of Ontario Health and announced that Dr. Catherine Zahn is being appointed as the new chair of Ontario Health, the province’s agency that connects, coordinates and modernizes the delivery of health care.
Dr. Zahn will be stepping down as deputy minister for the Ministry of Health effective February 7, 2024. Mr. Hatanaka completes his five-year term March 6, 2024.
NotL Council OKs 12 homes at Tawny Ridge, rejects townhouses
Niagara-on-the-Lake councillors want to keep St. Davids small.
After residents campaigned against a mixed residential develoment proposal in St. Davids, council on Tuesday night approved a low-density portion of the Tawny Ridge project and rejected the higher-density parts of the plan.
The project, proposed by St. Davids’ Riverview Estates Inc., would add 32 single-family homes, 24 townhouses and 30 stacked townhouses.
Did you know?
More than 70% of Canadians pay their credit card balance in full each month.
Focus on Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
Women still face gender inequalities at work post-pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic brought the longstanding economic inequalities between women and men into sharp focus. From the onset of the pandemic, up until the summer of 2022, economic gender gaps continued to widen.
Lockdowns and economic uncertainties created a perfect storm, leading to job losses and reduced opportunities for women in the workforce. The increased burden of caregiving responsibilities placed an additional strain on women, often forcing them to make difficult choices between their careers and family obligations.
The situation peaked in 2020 when women’s workforce participation plummeted to levels not seen since the 1980s. This decline marked a concerning setback in the progress women had collectively made in the workplace over the past few decades.
Through the Daily Updates, the GNCC aims to deliver important business news in a timely manner. We disseminate all news and information we feel will be important to businesses. Inclusion in the Daily Update is not an endorsement by the GNCC.
Daily Update: January 31
In this edition:
- Economy grew 0.2% in November, driven by goods-producing sector
- GNCC makes key requests for 2024 Provincial Budget
- Niagara-on-the-Lake draft tourism strategy recommends creating tourism director post
- Thorold Council approves 2024 Budget with 2.99% net levy increase
- NotL Museum highlights Black community’s contributions to Niagara history
- Ford not willing to raise post-secondary tuition in Ontario
- Canada’s vacancy rate reaches new low as demand outpaces supply
- Stats Canada to host ‘Ask Me Anything’ on Reddit on current housing market
- Price increases returning to more ‘normal’ levels
- Focus on Climate
Economy grew 0.2% in November, driven by goods-producing sector
Real gross domestic product (GDP) grew 0.2% in November after remaining essentially unchanged for three consecutive months. The majority of the growth in November came from the goods-producing industries grouping (+0.6%), which saw its highest growth rate since January 2023, as increases in all but one sector drove the gain. Services-producing industries edged up 0.1% in November 2023 despite the impact of the strikes in the Quebec public sector that began in the month. Overall, 13 of 20 industrial sectors increased in November.
GNCC makes key requests for 2024 Provincial Budget
The GNCC was asked to participate in the Government of Ontario’s 2024 budget consultations. The GNCC focused on three top priorities, as requested by the government, and advocated for tourism promotion, infrastructure investment, and a municipal growth framework.
Niagara-on-the-Lake draft tourism strategy recommends creating tourism director post
Niagara-on-the-Lake’s draft tourism strategy recommends hiring an economic development and tourism director as part of 68 action items that could cost more than $550,000 in the first year.
Rebecca Godfrey, senior vice-president of CBRE Tourism Consulting, said during a Monday committee meeting of town council that a cost estimate to implement 12 immediate action items ranges from $458,000 to $551,000 in the first year. The consulting firm has been working on the strategy since it won its contract last year.
Thorold Council approves 2024 Budget with 2.99% net levy increase
After two Special Council meetings on January 23 and January 30, Council has approved the 2024 operating and capital budgets.
The budget reflects a 2.99% net levy increase to the overall residential bill. For the average home valued at $273,600 (MPAC 2016 valuation date) this will mean an increase of approximately $52.
The approved budget for major infrastructure projects include a new Mausoleum and Administration Building at Lakeview Cemetery. For further details on the 2024 budget, please visit the City’s website at this link.
Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum highlights Black community’s contributions to Niagara history
Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum is kicking off Black History Month by highlighting the often ignored contributions made by Black people to Canadian history.
First, the museum is presenting the award-winning documentary “Belonging,” following former U.S. first lady Michelle Obama on her 30-city book tour across the United States. It will be followed on Feb. 7 with a virtual lecture by Julian Sher, author of “The North Star: Canada and the Civil War Plots Again Lincoln.”
Ford not willing to raise post-secondary tuition in Ontario
Ontario Premier Doug Ford said Wednesday he does not want to raise tuition for post-secondary students, despite colleges and universities struggling financially and a panel that recommended otherwise.
Ford’s government cut tuition by 10 per cent in 2019 for Canadian students and froze it.
A government-commissioned blue-ribbon panel recommended the province unfreeze tuition, raise student aid and increase operating grants to the schools.
Canada’s vacancy rate reaches new low as demand outpaces supply
In most major markets across Canada, strong rental demand outpaced supply for the second year in a row, resulting in less available purpose-built rental apartments and lower affordability in Canada’s primary rental market, according to the latest Rental Market Report (RMR) released by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC).
As a result, the national vacancy rate for Canada’s primary rental market reached a new low of 1.5% in 2023, the lowest recorded rate since 1988, when CMHC began recording a national vacancy rate.
Stats Canada to host ‘Ask Me Anything’ on Reddit on current housing market
Owning a home has become an impossible dream for many Canadians, and finding a decent place to rent is getting harder every day.
An upcoming event with data experts from Statistics Canada will delve into the housing crisis with Feb. 1 Q&A-style “Ask Me Anything” event on Reddit about the housing market in Canada.
Price increases returning to more ‘normal’ levels
Shoppers can expect to see cost increases from large CPGs reflected in retail prices next month, Metro Inc. president and CEO Eric La Flèche said.
“The good news is the number of increases is going back to more normal levels compared to what we saw in the last two years,” La Flèche said on the grocer’s first quarter earnings call Tuesday (Jan. 30). “There’s a substantial reduction in the number of requests. The size of the requests varies, but the general average is certainly lower than what we saw last year.”
Did you know?
Focus on Climate
Ripple effect: How public attitudes can shift governments toward sustainable, and resilient, water systems
With all the negative news coming out about climate change, its impacts and its possible trajectory in the not-so-distant future, it can be difficult to maintain hope for a brighter future.
The last few years have been challenging, even for optimists, with international climate meetings like the recent COP28 in Dubai emphasizing how far we are from where we need to be in terms of climate action. Meanwhile, reports like IPBES’ global biodiversity report provide strong evidence for the accelerating deterioration of nature and its benefits.
It can feel like there is not enough momentum to move quickly enough to slow climate change and stave off its worst impacts. However, our recent work provides a point of hope and evidence for optimism.
Through the Daily Updates, the GNCC aims to deliver important business news in a timely manner. We disseminate all news and information we feel will be important to businesses. Inclusion in the Daily Update is not an endorsement by the GNCC.
Daily Update: January 29
In this edition:
- Welland Staples one of first new ServiceOntario centres
- New name proposed for West Lincoln Memorial Hospital
- Business Data Lab shines light on post-pandemic reality for small retail businesses
- Bill Fordy named new Niagara police chief
- Renovated Rodman Hall in St. Catharines up for sale
- Government of Canada announces new low-cost loans to build student housing
- Niagara College issues website development RFP
- Minister Anand announces launch of GC Digital Talent Platform
- Focus on Small Business
Welland Staples one of first new ServiceOntario centres
Today, the province officially launched the expansion of ServiceOntario in six Staples Canada stores which will open on February 1. These new centres are part of the government’s ongoing work to explore new ways to make ServiceOntario more accessible for Ontario residents.
The new Staples Canada-operated ServiceOntario centres are in the following communities:
- Oakville, 2460 Winston Churchill Boulevard
- Newmarket, 17810 Yonge Street
- Toronto (Scarborough), 1980 Eglinton Avenue, East
- Strathroy, 425 Caradoc Street, South
- Tillsonburg, Tillsonburg Town Centre, 200 Broadway Street
- Welland, Seaway Mall, 800 Niagara Street
New name proposed for West Lincoln Memorial Hospital
West Lincoln Memorial Hospital (WLMH), a Hamilton Health Sciences (HHS) hospital, is being rebuilt to accommodate the growing health care needs of west Niagara’s communities. Public support of the new hospital has been overwhelmingly positive, as local residents acknowledge this important endeavour and have demonstrated unwavering commitment to the redevelopment project.
The Mayors of the Town of Grimsby, Town of Lincoln, Township of West Lincoln and the Chair of Niagara Region have submitted a request to Hamilton Health Sciences to change the name of the new hospital to West Niagara Memorial Hospital.
Business Data Lab shines light on post-pandemic reality for small retail businesses
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s Business Data Lab (BDL) released its latest report today, highlighting the new reality for small businesses in Canada’s post-pandemic retail landscape, which has been beset by shifting consumer behaviours.
The report, entitled, A Portrait of Small Business in Canada: Adaption, Agility, All At Once, explores the integral role small businesses play in Canada’s economy and sheds light on how these businesses can thrive despite major economic forces working against them — including the rising cost of doing business, the highest borrowing costs in over two decades and increased pandemic debt loads.
Bill Fordy named new Niagara police chief
Jen Lawson, Chair of the Regional Municipality of Niagara Police Services Board, announced today that the Board has selected Bill Fordy as the new Chief of Police for the Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS). Bill Fordy is currently the Deputy Chief of Police, Support Services, with the NRPS. He will begin his role as Chief of the NRPS effective February 1, 2024.
Renovated Rodman Hall in St. Catharines up for sale
Rodman Hall, a recently renovated historical building, is up for sale in St. Catharines, listed at $9,999,000. The property, built between 1857 and 1863, includes 2.9 hectares looking over twelve mile creek.
The listing says the site offers “13 lavish hotel rooms and a variety of exquisite event spaces including meeting rooms, a large bar area, and a banquet hall that can accommodate up to 150+ seated guests.”
Government of Canada announces new low-cost loans to build student housing
The Government of Canada today announced that they will be offering low-cost loans to build more student housing on- and off-campus. By reforming the Apartment Construction Loan Program, the Government aims to help more students find housing they can afford close to where they study, and help ensure that there are more homes available for families who live in those same communities year-round.
Niagara College issues website development RFP
Niagara College (NC) is actively accepting proposals to develop or create, update, re-design, test, and launch websites for different departments at NC.
The primary objective of this project is to significantly update, re-design, develop, and launch a comprehensive website for the Research and Innovation Department of Niagara College at the URL ncinnovation.ca. This website will serve as a dynamic, engaging, and informative platform, showcasing the department’s four (4) innovation centres, and their advanced research, projects, updates and news, employment and placement opportunities, and collaborations with industry partners.
The expected project completion date is July 31, 2024.
To review the application requirements and apply online, visit the College’s website and submit your proposal by February 8 at 3 p.m.
Minister Anand announces launch of GC Digital Talent Platform
Today, at the 2024 Digital Government Leaders Summit, the Honourable Anita Anand, President of the Treasury Board, announced the launch of the Government of Canada (GC) Digital Talent Platform—an online recruitment site for digital and IT professionals.
The Platform simplifies the application process for individuals who specialize in digital and IT who are looking to apply for jobs within the government. As well, it will provide federal institutions with lists of pre-qualified individuals that match their digital talent needs.
Did you know?
Canada’s biggest industry is commercial banking.
Focus on Small Business
What if… Planning for the unexpected
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business recently published a report showing small business owners work an average of 59 hours a week to fill gaps due to the ongoing labour shortage. And only 6% of respondents were automating their processes to compensate for these shortfalls.
That’s a recipe for chaos, says Beverlee Rasmussen, a certified systems business coach in Langley, British Columbia and author of Small Business Big Opportunity. Rasmussen notes that while tactical business owners bail water out of a sinking boat every day in a state of panic, strategic business owners pull the boat out of the water and fix the holes. Having a systems-based mindset allows you to pull a sinking boat out of the water if you fall ill.
Through the Daily Updates, the GNCC aims to deliver important business news in a timely manner. We disseminate all news and information we feel will be important to businesses. Inclusion in the Daily Update is not an endorsement by the GNCC.
Daily Update: January 22
In this edition:
- Government of Ontario announces new details of $1.2 billion Building Faster Fund
- Canada cuts international student positions by 35%
- Niagara Health receives highest-possible level of accreditation
- First containers roll through new Hamilton rail terminal
- Niagara-on-the-Lake Lord Mayor calls for focus on shared services, not amalgamation
- Focus on Human Resources
Government of Ontario announces new details of $1.2 billion Building Faster Fund
The Ontario government announced the latest steps in its plan to invest in rural communities and municipalities at the annual Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) conference. Premier Ford announced new details regarding the expansion of Ontario’s $1.2 billion Building Faster Fund (BFF) to small, rural and northern municipalities that have not been assigned housing targets by the province. Ten per cent – or $120 million – of the BFF will be reserved for these municipalities to help them build housing-enabling infrastructure.
Canada cuts international student positions by 35%
The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship announced today that the Government of Canada will set an intake cap on international student permit applications for two years. For 2024, the cap is expected to result in approximately 360,000 approved study permits, a decrease of 35% from 2023. Individual provincial and territorial caps have been established, weighted by population, which will result in much more significant decreases in provinces where the international student population has seen the most “unsustainable” growth, the Government of Canada said in a statement.
Study permit renewals will not be impacted. Those pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees, and elementary and secondary education are not included in the cap.
“This should have happened some time ago,” Mike Moffatt, an assistant professor at the Ivey Business School at Western University, said shortly before Miller’s announcement.
“The provinces should’ve acted first … But it’s good to see the federal government bring back some rationality back to the number of international students.”
Niagara Health receives highest-possible level of accreditation
Niagara Health has received the highest-possible level of accreditation for the third consecutive time.
Accreditation Canada says Niagara Health has met all of its required organizational practices in its commitment to ensure safe, quality care for patients and their families.
Officials spent a week assessing Niagara Health sites in November.
First containers roll through new Hamilton rail terminal
In a significant step forward for southern Ontario importers and exporters, Hamilton Container Terminal (HCT), in collaboration with Hamilton-Oshawa Port Authority (HOPA Ports), and Canadian National Railway (CN), proudly announces the creation of a direct intermodal rail service between Hamilton, ON and Montreal, QC. The inaugural Hamilton-Montreal intermodal freight train, carrying export-bound shipping containers, successfully completed its journey and is set to transition into a regular weekly service. The partners expect to gradually increase volumes through the new terminal, pending Canadian Border Services Agency approval for bonded movements.
Niagara-on-the-Lake Lord Mayor calls for focus on shared services, not amalgamation
In a statement made today, Niagara-on-the-Lake Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa emphasized his request to the Province to prioritize funding for shared services at the local level, advocating for municipalities to explore efficient service delivery options tailored to the community’s needs.
“I am advocating for a focus on shared services rather than amalgamation for the Niagara Region,” Lord Mayor Zalepa said in a statement, “including Niagara-on-the-Lake. While amalgamation is often viewed as a means to access a larger pool of resources, our Town’s unique identity, distinct heritage, and small-town charm must be preserved.”
Mayor Zalepa’s statement follows other statements from Regional Chair Jim Bradley and Port Colborne Mayor Bill Steele.
Did you know?
Focus on Human Resources
Employers should use skill-based hiring to find hidden talent and address labour challenges
A concerning trend known as qualification inflation has been plaguing hiring practices for years. Qualification inflation — also known as degree inflation — refers to the growing number of employers requiring degrees and extensive experience for jobs.
As highlighted in a 2017 Harvard study, job listings now often demand that applicants have degrees and experiences that were previously unnecessary, with some job requirements even surpassing the qualifications of current employees.
The origins of qualification inflation can be traced back to the rise of online application platforms and the 2008-09 financial crisis, both of which resulted in larger job applicant pools. Economic and technological shifts have also given rise to new roles that require unique skills.
Some employers adapted to these changes by adding qualifications to job listings without removing outdated ones, leading to qualification inflation. While this has been an ongoing issue for years, it is becoming increasingly urgent as many Canadian businesses are reportedly grappling with recruitment and retention challenges.
Through the Daily Updates, the GNCC aims to deliver important business news in a timely manner. We disseminate all news and information we feel will be important to businesses. Inclusion in the Daily Update is not an endorsement by the GNCC.
Daily Update: January 17
In this edition:
- Niagara firms receive $6.7m investment from Government of Ontario
- Niagara business leader Jenn Harper joins Canadian Chamber of Commerce panel
- Rand Estate by-law amendment referred to Ontario Land Tribunal
- Canada announces over $9 million for new affordable homes in Port Colborne
- Industrial product and raw material prices down 2.7% year-over-year
- CEBA repayment deadline is Thursday. What do businesses need to know?
- Canada Post announces shakeup: IT services group sold to Deloitte
- Cogeco Communications ranked among world’s 100 most sustainable corporations
- Competition Bureau launches new site to help businesses comply with laws
- Focus on Finance & Economy
Niagara firms receive $6.7m investment from Government of Ontario
The Ontario government is supporting $65 million in investments by three companies to boost local manufacturing and create 46 new, good-paying jobs in the Niagara Region. As part of these investments, the province is providing the companies with $6.7 million in support through the Regional Development Program (RDP).
Stanpac Inc. will increase the efficiency of its facility in Smithville, including creating a machine shop to service all machinery in-house.
AMSI Inc. will invest about $20 million to construct a new 67,000 square-foot manufacturing facility to improve manufacturing processes for large, complex equipment.
St. David’s Cold Storage is investing $9 million to expand its facility and double its refrigerated storage space.
Applications are now being accepted for the next intake round of RDP funding until January 25, 2024.
Niagara business leader Jenn Harper joins Canadian Chamber of Commerce panel
Small businesses are the heart of the Canadian economy, and they are continually finding new ways to navigate through a new “click-and-mortar” reality. At the Canadian Chamber’s upcoming event, a panel of leaders will dive into the insights of Canadian small business owners and experts who have not only adapted, but thrived in our ever-evolving business landscape.
Jenn Harper, the visionary Founder and CEO of Cheekbone Beauty Cosmetics INC., is a beacon of empowerment. Leading a digital direct-to-consumer brand, Jenn’s mission is to amplify Indigenous youth’s self-worth while championing sustainability through Life Cycle Thinking (LCT).
Rand Estate by-law amendment referred to Ontario Land Tribunal
In a statement issued today, the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake reported that the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) will hear appeals concerning the Zoning By-law Amendment, Plan of Subdivision and Heritage Planning Applications related to 200 John Street East and 588 Charlotte Street (“the Rand Estate”).
The hearing on the Rand Estate is scheduled for an eight-week period starting on March 25, 2024. The list of issues for the OLT to consider is lengthy, the Town reports, and legal and expert witness costs will be significant.
Canada announces over $9 million for new affordable homes in Port Colborne
On Tuesday, January 16, the federal government announced over $9 million to help build 41 affordable homes in Port Colborne.
The announcement was made by Vance Badawey, Member of Parliament for Niagara Centre, and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport — on behalf of the Honorable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities — alongside Jim Bradley, Regional Chair of Niagara Region, and Bill Steele, Mayor of the City of Port Colborne.
Industrial product and raw material prices down 2.7% year-over-year
New data released by Statistics Canada today indicates that the prices of products manufactured in Canada, as measured by the Industrial Product Price Index (IPPI), fell 1.5% month over month in December and were 2.7% lower than December 2022. This is the third consecutive monthly price decrease and the largest since August 2022, indicating that high raw material prices seen during the COVID-19 pandemic may be returning to normal.
Prices of raw materials purchased by manufacturers operating in Canada, as measured by the Raw Materials Price Index (RMPI), declined 4.9% on a monthly basis in December 2023 and decreased 7.9% year over year.
CEBA pandemic loan repayment deadline is Thursday. What Canadian businesses need to know
This Thursday is a significant date for many Canadian businesses who received assistance from the federal government at the height of the pandemic.
Businesses that were eligible to receive a Canada Emergency Business Account loan have until Jan. 18 to repay the money, interest-free, and receive loan forgiveness for up to a third of the cost.
The CEBA program, which ran from April 2020 to June 2021, provided small businesses and non-profit organizations interest-free loans of up to $60,000 to help them cover operating costs.
Canada Post announces shakeup: IT services group sold to Deloitte
Canada Post announced that its IT shared-service provider, Innovapost, will be sold off to Deloitte Canada.
As part of the agreement, Deloitte will deliver and support Canada Post’s day-to-day IT operational services.
“Today is the start of an exciting journey to transform Canada Post’s information technology model so that we can better meet the demands of our customers, particularly in the competitive parcel market,” said Doug Ettinger, president and chief executive officer, Canada Post.
Cogeco Communications ranked among world’s 100 most sustainable corporations
Cogeco Communications is pleased to announce that, for a fifth consecutive year, it has been recognized among the world’s 100 most sustainable corporations by Corporate Knights. This year, the Company ranks 73rd in the Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World list, which is based on a rigorous assessment of 6,733 companies with more than US$1 billion in revenue.
Click here to read more.
Competition Bureau launches new site to help businesses comply with laws
The Competition Bureau of Canada has launched a new online hub with resources to help businesses comply with laws related to competition and labelling.
The federal agency announced its new Compliance Hub on Wednesday.
In a statement, the bureau and the hub will replace its Corporate Compliance Programs Bulletin, which was initially published in 2015.
Did you know?
The first Canadian post office opened in 1753 in Halifax.
Focus on Finance & Economy
What Canadian investors need to know about bitcoin ETFs
Bitcoin made headlines this week after U.S. regulatory changes made investing in the cryptocurrency more accessible – and experts say investors should be knowledgeable about the industry and understand the risks before diving in to cryptocurrency and related products.
On Wednesday, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission approved 11 exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that invest directly in bitcoin, with many opening trading platforms the next day.
Through the Daily Updates, the GNCC aims to deliver important business news in a timely manner. We disseminate all news and information we feel will be important to businesses. Inclusion in the Daily Update is not an endorsement by the GNCC.