Small Business Enterprise Centre

Entrepreneurship 101: Launch Pad – Business Planning
2026-03-11 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Toronto) | VentureNorth, Lower Level Board Room, 270 George Street North, Peterborough, ON, K9J 3H1, Canada
Learn how to turn your business idea into a reality with practical tips and tools at Entrepreneurship 101: Launch Pad – Business Planning!

Entrepreneurship 101: Launch Pad – Business Planning
Description: Are you ready to turn your business idea into a reality? Join Community Futures Peterborough for Entrepreneurship 101: Launch Pad – Business Planning! Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this event will provide you with the tools and knowledge you need to create a solid business plan. Learn from experts in the field and network with like-minded individuals. Don’t miss this opportunity to take your business to the next level!

Build A Strong Brand Identity For Your Business!
2026-03-11 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Toronto)
Your brand identity as small business owner isn’t just about logos or colors — it’s about building clarity, consistency, and growth!

Join our workshop to gain insights on how to build a strong and consistent brand identity for your small business from start to finish, and develop a strong web presence & SEO for your brand to succeed.
As a small business owner and entrepreneur, this session will give you practical tools to kickstart your brand and boost your online visibility.
This session is run in partnership with the Business Centre but hosted by the founders of Park Creative; Theo Peirson and Rachel Woodcock

Presenters Rachel Woodcock and Theo Peirson of Park Creative

BACD Business Fundamentals: Marketing & Sales
2026-03-12 09:30 - 11:30 (America/Toronto)
This session will help you create a marketing plan that targets your ideal customer and help you identify the marketing tactics.

Marketing and Sales: Marketing drives sales. Let’s build your strategy.
Without a clear marketing and sales strategy, your business risks wasting time, money—and missing out on customers. In BACD’s Marketing & Sales Session, you’ll learn how to attract the right audience, build your brand, and convert leads into loyal clients.
We’ll help you create a strategy that works for your business and budget.
Here’s what we cover:

Branding and your value proposition
Online and offline marketing tactics
Lead generation and client acquisition
Sales strategy and follow-up process
Digital tools and web elements that support growth

This session is part of our Business Fundamentals Series, which also includes Start Up, Business Planning, and Finance & Operations. Take them in any order—sessions run monthly with flexible times.
Join us and start building a marketing and sales strategy that gets results.

Tax Seminar with the CRA: T1 Sole Proprietor & Partnership
2026-03-12 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Toronto)
Hosted by the CRA this workshop provides small business owners with a overview of the relationship between their business and taxation.

The CRA Liaison Officer tax seminar targets newer small businesses or potential new start-ups. This webinar help:

Explain common tax errors, what causes them and how to avoid them
Demonstrate how to use financial benchmarks for relevant industries
Provide information on the CRA’s services
Explain general bookkeeping concepts and best practices

This seminar will provide small business owners with a general overview of the relationship between their business and taxation. It also allows participants the opportunity to speak directly to a representative from the CRA to ask any questions that they might have concerning business issues.

Business Website Basics for Beginners
2026-03-12 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Toronto) | MS Teams
Learn how to choose the right website hosting platform for your business by comparing popular options like Squarespace, WordPress, and Wix.
Hosted by guest speaker Jurnee Parisotto Charron, President and Managing Partner at Barlume Inc., this session covers basic website setup and how to clearly present high-priority information so your site works for your business.

Market Research: Techniques to Discover your Market
2026-03-12 15:00 - 16:30 (America/Toronto)
Join the VBEC team for a group session on all you need to know about hands-on primary & secondary market research techniques

Join the Vaughan Business & Entrepreneurship Centre (VBEC) & the Vaughan Public Libraries for a group session to learn what market research techniques are right for your business. Our experts will guide you through strategies to better understand your market and customer.
We will explore hands-on primary market research techniques in your industry, community, and competition and secondary research techniques using market studies, reports, and analyzing customer feedback data.
During this virtual open-forum style Q&A, feel free to turn cameras on, ask questions in the chatbox, and share more about your business.
This session is ideal for idea-stage, pre-launch businesses, & existing businesses entering a new market or reaching a new target customer.
*Virtual meeting link will be sent to your inbox 1 day prior to the event.

Exploring Entrepreneurship – The basics of starting your own business
2026-03-13 13:00 - 14:30 (America/Toronto)
Join the St Catharines Enterprise Centre for an informative session all about what it takes to successfully start a business.

Do you have dreams of becoming an entrepreneur? Join the St. Catharines Enterprise Centre for an informative session all about what it takes to successfully start a business. In this session you will learn about developing your idea, business supports and tools, and the keys to success.

Summer Company 2026: Program Information Session
2026-03-16 13:30 - 14:30 (America/Toronto)
Join us for an information session about Summer Company, a program designed to help students become their own boss!

Join us for an information session about Summer Company, a program designed to help students become their own boss!
Learn how Summer Company provides mentorship, business skills, and startup funding to launch and run your own business. Take the first step toward becoming your own boss and gaining valuable experience this summer!

Essential Tax Prep for Your Business
2026-03-17 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Toronto)
60 Minutes with Mike Libbey, Partner & COO at YBL Accounting

60 Minutes with Mike Libbey, Partner & COO at YBL Accounting

Tax season doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. In this fast?paced 60?minute session, Mike Libbey from YBL Accounting will show you exactly how to prepare your business for tax time with clarity, confidence, and zero jargon. Mike has helped grow YBL from a small family operation into a national cloud?based accounting firm supporting entrepreneurs across Canada and is known for simplifying tax, cash flow, and financial systems so business owners can stay in control.
What You’ll Learn

The key documents and numbers you need before filing
Common tax mistakes and how to avoid them
Deductions entrepreneurs often miss
Simple habits that make tax season stress?free

Mike Libbey is Partner & COO at YBL Accounting, offering CFO?level guidance to growth?focused businesses across Canada. He’s known for delivering clear, actionable tax and financial advice — no fluff, no overwhelm.

Intro to Importing and Exporting for Entrepreneurs
2026-03-17 11:00 - 12:30 (America/Toronto) | Brampton Entrepreneur Centre + Co-working Space, 41 George Street South, Brampton, ON, L6Y 2E1, Canada
Are you ready to expand your business horizons beyond Canadian borders?

Whether you’re a startup looking to enter new markets or an established business aiming to refine your international strategy, this session is tailored to help you succeed in the global marketplace.
Don’t miss this chance to unlock new business opportunities and take your entrepreneurial journey to an international level! This seminar will provide an introductory guide on the basics of what entrepreneurs need to know in order to do importing or exporting the right way.

The session will cover:
Understanding Global Markets: Learn the fundamentals of international trade and identify key opportunities in global markets.
Importing Basics: Discover the essential steps for importing goods, including sourcing, compliance, and logistics.
Exporting Essentials: Explore strategies for exporting your products, from market research to documentation and shipping.
Regulatory and Compliance: Get to grips with import/export regulations, tariffs, and customs procedures.
Risk Management: Understand how to mitigate risks associated with international trade, including currency fluctuations and geopolitical factors.
Understanding Culture: Learn how to do with international businesses; and best practices.
Payment and Financing: Learn about how to take payment and learn about all of your financing options.

Brings Your Creations to Life – Learn why Intellectual Property matters
2026-03-17 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Toronto)
If you own a business, you own intellectual property. Learn how to protect it, grow it, and profit from it!

Join us on Tuesday March 17th to learn the basics on intellectual property and how to protect your brand, innovation or creation!
This webinar introduces the most common types of intellectual property: trademarks, patents, trade secrets, copyrights, and industrial designs. It explains their strategic value and the resources available to learn more about the topic.
You’ll learn what patents, trademarks, industrial designs and copyrights are. Learn how these rights are used to protect a business and how they help it grow and become more competitive. The Canadian Intellectual Property Office representative will also talk about how to identify and manage IP and explain ways to avoid some of the most common mistakes with IP.
Join us for an interactive presentation:
• What Intellectual Property is.
• Where and how is IP used?
• How do I know if I have IP?
• How can IP unlock the value of my idea?
• What are the benefits of IP?
• How do I manage my IP?
• Who can help me with intellectual property?

Whether you’re building a tech product, launching a brand, or creating original content, this event will give you the tools to protect and power your business.
This session is presented by the Business Centre Guelph Wellington but presented by Dumutru Olariu, Canadian Intellectual Property Office Intellectual Property Advisor

Bring Your Creations to Life – Learn Why Intellectual Property Matters
2026-03-17 13:00 - 14:30 (America/Toronto)
Learn how protecting your creations through IP rights can give you an advantage over your competition.

About the workshop:
Are you turning your business idea into a real product, service, or brand? Whether you’re designing a logo, developing a unique product, offering innovative services, or crafting original content, understanding intellectual property (IP) is essential for protecting your hard work.
This workshop is ideal for small business owners, startups, and entrepreneurs who are in the early stages of building their business. We’ll break down the basics of IP and how it can directly impact your business growth, competitive edge, and long-term success.
You’ll learn:

Trademarks – How to protect your business name, logo, slogan, or brand identity so others can’t use them.
Copyrights – How to secure rights over original content.
Patents – How to safeguard inventions, products, or processes that are new, useful, and innovative.
Trade Secrets – How to protect valuable business information that give you a competitive advantage.
Industrial Designs – How to protect the unique look and feel of your product design.

We’ll also cover why IP matters for small businesses – from avoiding costly legal issues to increasing your business value and attracting investors or partners.
Takeaways:

A clear understanding of different types of IP and how they apply to your business.
Practical examples and real-life case studies.
Next steps and resources to start protecting your intellectual property.

About the speaker:
Elizabeth Collinson has worked with the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) for more than 20 years. While working with CIPO, Elizabeth has held various positions including a Trademarks Examiner, a Business Development Officer, a Project Manager and now as an IP Advisor. Elizabeth has successfully passed the Trademark Agent examination and is listed as an inactive Trademark Agent on the Canadian Patent Agent and Trademark Agent (CPATA) register.
About CIPO:
The Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) is a special operating agency of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada. We deliver intellectual property (IP) services in Canada and educate Canadians on how to use IP more effectively.

*Please note that you will receive an email with the link to join this webinar upon registering and before the session. If you do not receive it, please check your junk mailbox.

Mastery of Sales
2026-03-18 13:30 - 16:00 (America/Toronto) | 22 Ontario St, 22 Ontario Street, St. Catharines, ON, L2R 7M3, Canada
Join the St. Catharines Enterprise Centre for a mastermind session on sales and business development. Presented by Vern Vautour.

Speaker Bio:
Vern Vautour is a seasoned professional in small business management, development, strategic planning, training, and coaching.
Founder of Biz Coach Services Inc, core services focus on the development of small business owners, not-for-profits, social enterprises, the self-employed, BIA’s and multi-unit operation owners who are looking to start or expand their operations.

Brampton Ignite – Networking Group
2026-03-18 18:30 - 20:30 (America/Toronto) | Brampton Entrepreneur Centre, 41 George Street South, Brampton, ON, L6Y 2E1, Canada
Ignited by Passion, Fueled by the Community. The Brampton Entrepreneur Centre’s exclusive networking event for local entrepreneurs.

The Brampton Ignite – Networking Group is an exclusive networking group led by the Brampton Entrepreneur Centre. The session bolsters the City’s commitment to developing our local entrepreneurial community by providing small business owners the opportunity to hear stories of passion, drive, and resilience of local Brampton business owners. The session will also allow the community to come together and build meaningful bonds and relationships amongst other entrepreneurs in the room. Come experience what our networking group is all about and leave with the fire and passion that ignites us all.

Doors Open: 6:30PM – 7PM
Speakers Ignite Session ?: 7PM – 7:30PM
Group Networking Sessions: 7:30PM – 8:15PM
Wrap up and Closing: 8:15PM – 8:45PM

Chapter 9: Finding a Voice, Building Leaders: The Story of Roger Caesar

There was a time when Roger Caesar struggled with something many of us fear—speaking in front of others. What felt like a weakness became the spark for change. Instead of shying away, Roger leaned in, determined to transform his voice into his strength.
That decision changed everything. From nervous beginnings, he grew into a speaker who would one day stand on the world stage, placing in the Top Three at the World Championship of Public Speaking. Along the way, he discovered that communication wasn’t just about speaking—it was about inspiring, connecting, and leading.
Today, Roger helps others unlock that same power. Through his company, Caesar Empire Speaking & Coaching, he works with professionals, students, and organizations to show that anyone can find their voice and use it to achieve greatness.
Join the Brampton Entrepreneur Centre as Roger shares his story—how a challenge became a calling, and how the ability to communicate with confidence can transform not only your career, but your life.?

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

Roger Caesar
Transforming Communication, Empowering Leadership
Get ready to be inspired! Roger Caesar is an award-winning, internationally recognized speaker and Certified World Class Speaking Coach. With his charismatic stage presence and entrepreneurial expertise, Roger empowers individuals and organizations to exceed their greatest aspirations through powerful messages and life-changing action.
As a Top Three winner at the 2021 World Championship of Public Speaking, Roger has worked with top organizations like Toyota, Dell Technologies, TD, and Desjardins to enhance leadership and communication skills. He’s delivered two TEDx talks, earned the 2024 CXO Outstanding Leadership Award, received the 2025 Canadian Choice Award for Career Consulting, and was honored by the City of Brampton for his contributions to entrepreneurship. Roger also teaches at the University of Toronto, sharing his expertise with future leaders.
Founder of Caesar Empire Speaking & Coaching, Roger helps clients deliver impactful presentations and become captivating communicators. Through coaching, workshops, and keynotes, he inspires clarity, builds confidence, and fosters meaningful connections.
As co-host of the Great Convos Podcast, Roger’s passion for storytelling resonates globally, drawing from his personal experiences—whether in sports, raising two daughters, or his love of nature documentaries.
Roger Caesar is more than a speaker. He’s a catalyst for change, on a mission to help individuals and organizations find their voices, master the art of communication, and achieve greatness!
rogercaesar.com

Business Model Canvas Strategy Workshop
2026-03-19 09:00 - 11:00 (America/Toronto)
Come and get a clear roadmap for achieving long-term goals for your small business through BMC (Business Model Canvas)

The Business Model Canvas (BMC) is an essential strategic management tool that helps entrepreneurs, managers, and teams visualize, design, and refine their business model in a simple, structured way. Its importance lies in how it breaks down complex business concepts into nine clear building blocks.
Here’s why it is important:

Provides a Clear Overview of the Business
Encourages Strategic Thinking
Simplifies Communication
Supports Alignment and Collaboration
Useful for Startups and Established Businesses Alike

Join us for a 2 hour virtual session on Thursday March 19th at 9am to go over the importance of a Business Model Canvas with the Business Centre Guelph Wellington’s Executive Director, Kristel Manes.
Are you an existing business owner? This event could be a great refresher on business fundamentals as well as available tools and support for your small business.

Understanding Rules of Origin & Duty Drawback Programs
2026-03-19 10:00 - 11:30 (America/Toronto)
Learn the rules of origin and duty drawback to help Toronto businesses navigate tariffs, classify products, and trade more predictably.

Learn Why Intellectual Property Matters
2026-03-19 10:00 - 11:30 (America/Toronto)
Learn Why Intellectual Property Matters with the Canadian Intellectual Property Office

Presented by the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO), this presentation introduces the most common types of intellectual property:

Trademarks
Patents
Trade secrets
Copyrights
Industrial designs

It explains their strategic value, and the resources available to learn more about the topic.

Building Business Longevity in Sudbury
2026-03-19 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Toronto) | MS Teams
What does it take to build a business that lasts generations? In Building Business Longevity in Sudbury, hear from one of downtown Sudbury’s longest-standing businesses, Reg Wilkinson’s Men’s Wear, as they share insights on succession planning, multi-generation ownership, and long-term success.

Ink it Right: A Journey Through the Essentials of Contract Law (Virtual)
2026-03-19 13:00 - 14:30 (America/Toronto)
A deep dive into best practices to protect your business in contractual relationships.

About this workshop:
Clearly written contracts are one of the most powerful tools you have to protect your business. Whether you’re working with clients, suppliers, partners, or contractors, understanding the fundamentals of contract law can help you reduce risk, prevent disputes, and operate with confidence.
This practical, entrepreneur-focused workshop will break down the essentials of contract law in clear, accessible language. You’ll learn what makes a contract legally binding, how to avoid common pitfalls, and what key terms and clauses you should pay close attention to in commercial agreements.
By the end of this session, you’ll have a stronger understanding of:

The core elements required to create a binding contract
Common commercial contracts used by growing businesses
Key clauses every entrepreneur should understand
Practical strategies to reduce risk and avoid costly disputes

Whether you’re just starting out or scaling your venture, this session will help you approach contracts with clarity and confidence.

Presented by Megan Wallace & Marina Abrosimov, from Mann Lawyers.

*Please note that you will receive an email with the link to join this webinar upon registering and before the session. If you do not receive it, please check your junk mailbox.

Women Founders Night
2026-03-19 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Toronto) | Brampton Entrepreneur Centre, 41 George Street South, Brampton, ON, L6Y 2E1, Canada
Meet and share your experiences with other women founders!

Join us for an empowering evening celebrating the innovation, resilience, and leadership of women entrepreneurs!

This event brings together trailblazing women from diverse industries to share their stories, strategies, and insights.Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur, an aspiring founder, or simply passionate about supporting women in business, this event is the perfect opportunity to be inspired, network, and learn. Don’t miss out on this chance to celebrate and connect with some of the brightest minds in the entrepreneurial world.We look forward to seeing you there!?

This event invites those who identify as a Women.

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

LARA TAI BIO
Lara Tai is a Toronto-based actor of mixed Chinese and Indian heritage. Known for her versatility and emotional depth, she has appeared in television, commercials, and live comedy performances across Canada. Her recent screen credits include ABOAGYE, Dark Side of Reality (VICE TV), commercials for Amazon Prime, TVO Ontario, History Channel and Domino’s Pizza, and lead roles in independent films and sketch comedy theatre productions.She is developing as a writer, and producer and is an alumna of the CMPA Producer’s Mentorship Program, where she worked on Cafe Daughter (TIFF 2023), projects in development and the CBC Television series Diggstown under producers Amos Adetuyi and Floyd Kane, and continues to be mentored by notable producers through the BIPOC Film and TV producer connection program. Lara’s background in musical improv, dance and comedy includes writing and performing in Sketchfest Toronto and producing numerous improv comedy musicals. She also co-hosts a podcast with the UK dating app SALT, using improv to explore communication and relationships in modern dating. Beyond acting, she has interviewed talent on the red carpet at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), reflecting her ongoing engagement with the entertainment industry. Driven by a passion for authentic, diverse storytelling, Lara continues to expand her work in television and film, bringing warmth, intelligence, and charisma to every project she joins.
Lara Tai – IMDb

Summer Company – Program Information Session
2026-03-19 18:30 - 19:30 (America/Toronto)
This information session will provide students information on the Summer Company Program – eligibility, program requirements and funding!

This information session will provide students information on the Summer Company Program – eligibility, program requirements and funding!
Are you a DURHAM REGION student, or do you know one?
Don’t miss this opportunity!
Students between the ages of 15 – 29 who will return to school in the fall can turn their hobby or summer business idea into a reality.
This program is offered in partnership with the Province of Ontario and provides entrepreneurial training, mentorship, and grants! Successful applicants receive up to $1500 in start-up funds and an additional $1500 upon completion of the program.
A limited number of spaces are available each year, and the application process is competitive. Interested students are encouraged to attend one of the information sessions for additional information and to begin the application process.
Bring all your questions!
This session is held virtually, through Microsoft Teams.
Parents are welcome to attend the session.
*Some business type exclusions exist. More details will be provided during the session.

Learning Lab: Your Marketing Starter Guide
2026-03-20 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Toronto) | Zoom
This free, virtual workshop will guide you through the essential steps of building a simple, effective marketing foundation for your small business.
Learn how to identify your audience, clarify your message, and choose focused marketing actions that support your business goals – complete with budgeting tips and low- or no-cost solutions to get your marketing momentum started.

Starting a Business in Ottawa: Rules, Resources & Roadmaps (Virtual)
2026-03-20 11:00 - 12:30 (America/Toronto)
Start smart – learn the rules, find support, launch with confidence.

About this workshop:
Have a business idea but aren’t sure how to take the first step? This engaging and informative webinar is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs who are in the early stages of exploring business ownership. Whether you’re considering a side hustle, launching a startup, or turning a passion into a full-time venture, this session will provide you with the foundational knowledge you need to get started confidently and compliantly.
Led by experts from Invest Ottawa, this beginner-level seminar will introduce you to the key regulatory requirements and business considerations at the municipal, provincial, and federal levels. You’ll learn about:

Municipal Requirements: Understand business licensing requirements and zoning considerations in Ottawa.
Provincial Regulations: Explore different business structures (sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation), how to register your business in Ontario, and what structure might be best for you.
Federal Obligations: Get an overview of federal requirements including HST registration and obtaining a Business Number (BN).

In addition to regulatory basics, the webinar will highlight valuable resources available to entrepreneurs, including:

Support Services & Community Resources: Discover how Invest Ottawa and its partners can support your entrepreneurial journey through mentorship, networking, training, and more.

By the end of this session, you’ll have a clearer understanding of the path to launching your business and where to find the support you need every step of the way.
Who Should Attend:

First-time entrepreneurs
Individuals with a business idea but no prior experience
Anyone looking to understand the business startup landscape in Ottawa and Ontario

About the speaker:
Paula Hopkins is a passionate entrepreneurship advocate. She is the Director of the Entrepreneurship Team, and has worked with Invest Ottawa for over 10 years to help people start and grow their businesses.

*Please note that you will receive an email with the link to join this webinar upon registering and before the session. If you do not receive it, please check your junk mailbox.

Summer Company Info Session: Launch Your Business & Get Up to $3K
2026-03-20 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York)
Students 15-29: Launch your summer business! Get up to $3K funding, mentorship & tools. Learn about Summer Company at this free info session

Summer Company Info Session: Launch Your Business & Get Up to $3K in Funding
Are you a student aged 15-29 looking to start a business this summer? Join us for a free virtual information session about Summer Company, a program that helps young entrepreneurs launch and operate full-time businesses over the summer months.
The program provides:

Up to $3,000 in provincial grant funding
Mentorship from Brampton’s business community
Access to tools, services, and workshops
Support to develop your business plan and skills

What We’ll Cover In the Info Session:

Program requirements and eligibility
Application process and timeline
How to write an effective business plan
Available resources and support

Space is limited for this program, so learn how to make your application stand out!
Hosted by the Brampton Entrepreneur Centre
Questions? Contact us at bec@brampton.ca

Intro to E-Commerce: From Idea to First Sale in Ten Steps (Virtual)
2026-03-23 14:00 - 15:30 (America/Toronto)
Exploring the essentials of launching a successful online business.

About the workshop:
Join our comprehensive E-commerce workshop where we’ll explore the essentials of launching a successful online business.
From identifying your target audience and sourcing products to choosing the right platform and designing your brand, we’ll touch on each crucial step.
Get introduced to topics such as:

Sourcing your products
Registering your business
Building your online store
Discovering the essentials of effectively marketing
Attracting customers

We’ll run through 10 steps to help you turn your idea into your first sale. Perfect for beginners and those looking to get started with an e-commerce strategy.

*Please note that you will receive an email with the link to join this webinar upon registering and before the session. If you do not receive it, please check your junk mailbox.

How To Start a Business
2026-03-24 10:00 - 11:30 (America/New_York)
The Small Business Centre will give you a head start to launching your business in Kawartha Lakes

Do you have a skill or talent you’d like to earn income from by working for yourself but are not sure where to get started? Our Kawartha Lakes Small Business Centre (SBC) is here to help guide you!
Who should attend:

Anyone that has an idea and wants to work for themselves
New business owners who want to make sure they haven’t missed anything

In this workshop, we’ll cover:

Traits of successful small business owners
Step-by-step guide to starting your business
Funding available to small businesses in Ontario

You’ll walk away knowing the next action you need to take to get your business off the ground. You may even meet other future business owners you can partner with!

How To Start a Business
2026-03-24 10:00 - 11:30 (America/Toronto) | Zoom
Do you have a skill or talent you’d like to earn income from by working for yourself but are not sure where to get started? Our Kawartha Lakes Small Business Centre (SBC) is here to help guide you!
Who should attend:

Anyone that has an idea and wants to be their own boss
New business owners who want to make sure they haven’t missed anything

In this workshop, we’ll cover:

Traits of successful small business owners
Step-by-step guide to starting your business
Funding available to small businesses in Ontario

You’ll walk away knowing the next action you need to take to get your business off the ground. You may even meet other future business owners you can partner with!

Social Impact 101: Incorporating Social Impact into Your Business Model
2026-03-24 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Toronto)
Learn how to integrate social impact into your business model and why it’s important.

About this workshop:
What’s your impact, and how do you know?
In today’s world, businesses and organizations are increasingly expected to do more than just turn a profit – they’re expected to create real, measurable social and environmental value. But how do you track that impact? And why does it matter?
In this foundational workshop, Social Impact 101: Incorporating Social Impact into Your Business Model, you’ll explore the benefits of measuring your social impact and learn how it can help guide decision-making, build trust, and strengthen your mission.
We’ll dive into several practical tools and frameworks used globally, including:

B Corp certification
Social Return on Investment (SROI)
Theory of Change

You’ll also gain insights into how to integrate social impact into your business model, and examine hybrid business structures (like social enterprises, co-ops, and nonprofits with earned revenue streams). Through local and international case studies, we’ll explore what works in balancing profit with purpose.
Whether you’re just beginning your impact journey or looking to deepen your current efforts, this session will give you the clarity and tools to move forward with confidence.
Join us for Social Impact 101 – and start measuring what truly matters!
About CSED:
The Centre for Social Enterprise Development (CSED) offers a continuum of support for social enterprises in the Ottawa area, including access to technical expertise, coaching, learning communities, training, and cross-sector partnerships. CSED works with its clients to develop their social enterprise plan and provide them with the tools, strategies and support to perpetuate positive social change and grow profitably.

*Please note that you will receive an email with the link to join this webinar upon registering and before the session. If you do not receive it, please check your junk mailbox.

SEO Today & Tomorrow: How to Be Found on Google and by AI Tools
2026-03-24 14:00 - 15:30 (America/Toronto) | St. Catharines City Hall, 50 Church Street, St. Catharines, ON, L2R 7C2, Canada
Join us for a hands-on SEO workshop with Maggie McTavish of Mango Media.

Join us for a hands-on SEO workshop with Maggie McTavish of Mango Media. You’ll learn how to optimize your website for improved search visibility, as well as how to prepare your site so AI tools like ChatGPT can understand and recommend your business. This session is designed for business owners at any level of marketing experience, with practical steps you can apply immediately.
Speaker Bio:
Maggie McTavish is the founder of Mango Media, a digital marketing agency based in St. Catharines. With over 12 years of experience, she helps small businesses build websites that rank and get found on Google—and prepares them for how search is evolving with AI tools.

**Please complete all sections of the registration, including additional questions. Incomplete registrations or registrations with invalid answers may be cancelled.

Location Updated:

50 Church St., St. Catharines – City Hall

Burgoyne Woods Roon

3rd Floor

Corporate Taxation and Corporate Structures (Virtual)
2026-03-24 14:00 - 15:30 (America/Toronto)
Join us to discover whether you could benefit from incorporating your business or if you are curious about your existing structure.

About this workshop:
A corporation is a separate legal entity, meaning it exists independently from its owners and is taxed separately. But does incorporating make sense for your business? And if you’re already incorporated, are you structured in the most effective way?
Join us for this free, practical learning session designed specifically for entrepreneurs and small business owners who are either considering incorporation or want to better understand and optimize their existing corporate structure.
This interactive workshop will break down complex concepts into clear, actionable insights so you can make informed decisions about your business.
During this session, we will:

go over the reasons to incorporate and points to consider
compare the personal tax rates and corporate tax rates
discuss the relationship of the individual to their corporation – salary vs. dividends, taxable benefits
comment on different types of corporate structures and how each structure may be applicable to you which may include holding companies and family trusts as shareholders
show how the corporation be used for tax planning purposes using the small business deduction and capital gain exemption

Whether you are just starting out, scaling your operations, or planning for the future, this workshop will help you better understand the financial and strategic implications of incorporation – and how to structure your business in a way that aligns with your goals.

*Please note that you will receive an email with the link to join this webinar upon registering and before the session. If you do not receive it, please check your junk mailbox.
