Valley Heartland CFDC

09/19/2025

🥳🥳🥳🥳

MEDIA RELEASE – For Immediate Release, September 18, 2025 [OTTAWA, ONTARIO] The Ontario East Economic Development Commission (Ontario East) “Doug Ellis Ontario East Economic Development Officer (EDO) of the Year Award” was presented during the Ontario East Municipal Conference (OEMC), hosted a...

09/19/2025

09/18/2025

☕ Connect and collaborate with fellow local business leaders at our next Mississippi Mills Business Breakfast! 🥓

📆 Thursday, September 25
⏰ 7-9 am
📍 Stewart Community Centre - upper hall (112 MacFarlane Street, Pakenham)
🗣 Guest speakers: Amber Coville (Executive Director of Valley Heartland CFDC and Linda Alexander (Recruitment & Settlement Coordinator for Lanark County)
💲Cost: $15 each

Learn about the Regional Economic Development through Immigration (REDI) pilot program!

➡️ Reserve your spot by Monday, September 22. Email [email protected].

🔗 For more info: www.mississippimills.ca/news/posts/mississippi-mills-business-breakfast-september-25-2025/

08/05/2025

Digital Modernization and Adoption Plan (DMAP)

Funded by the Province of Ontario through the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI), the DMAP program helps Ontario SMEs develop a customized digital strategy in partnership with a qualified consultant. This strategy may include improvements in cybersecurity, productivity, customer service, and other key areas.

Funding: Up to $15,000 (50% of eligible costs)
Eligibility:
• For-profit, incorporated Ontario SMEs with 1–499 employees
• Must demonstrate a clear need for digital transformation

Application Process: In order to submit an application, you must first connect with an OCI staff member. Complete the Client Intake Form and check the “digital solutions” box to begin the process.
For more information, visit the OCI’s Drop Box Link.

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/k4ws0ev97o2z6trvpg518/AAGqlmDVIQccMP-NbVGodtE?rlkey=bljm0ej4iionjujevl1anapcs&e=2&st=f8rjj2t9&dl=0

08/05/2025

Retail Modernization Project Grant (RMPG)

The RMPG supports Ontario-based bricks and mortar retail businesses in adopting digital tools to improve operations and drive growth. Funded by the Province of Ontario through the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI), the grant helps cover the cost of technologies such as POS systems, online ordering platforms, and CRM tools.

Funding: Up to $5,000 (50% of eligible costs)
Eligibility:
• Incorporated, for-profit, Ontario-based with 1–50 employees
• Minimum $100,000 in annual revenue
• At least one year in operation and a physical storefront (e.g., retail, restaurants & food, professional services such as hairstyling, florists, etc.)

Application Process: In order to submit an application, you must first connect with an OCI staff member. Complete the Client Intake Form and check the “digital solutions” box to begin the process.
To read complete program details, visit the OCI’s Drop Box Link.
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/o3m61jc7bofz2c2nlr4qz/ANYunoZXocPd_PlZ3Jl4Znw?rlkey=xwtpdcsn927ehsdfonpmd83zw&e=2&st=2yhxhaco&dl=0

07/24/2025

Did you know nearly 1 in 3 Canadians have a disability? That's a LOT of potential customers!

Want to grow your business AND create a more welcoming space? Our quick, practical training gives you everything you need to:

✅ Meet legal requirements
✅ Build customer loyalty
✅ Learn simple ways to make EVERYONE feel welcome

Plus, you'll join an awesome community of forward-thinking business owners!

Ready to make a difference (and grow your business while you're at it)? Let's do this! 🚀 www.cludee.com



ID: The image shows a vibrant retail store interior with colorful figures shopping among clothing racks and displays, overlaid with the text "TRAIN WITH clüdee" in a circular design.

07/24/2025

💬 Packed room. Powerful discussions.💬
We were thrilled to host a full house earlier this week for the Cross-Ministry Funders Forum—an incredible morning of insight, connection, and collaboration.

A big thank you to our presenters from:
• Ministry of Rural Affairs (MRA)
• Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade (MEDJCT)
• Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness (OMAFA)
• Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD)
• Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming (MTCG)

👏 Special thanks to the Ministry of Rural Affairs – Rural Policy and Economic Development Branch for reaching out and organizing this great initiative. We’re looking forward to more opportunities for collaboration and rural impact.

06/30/2025

☀️ Start Your Summer with Learning & Connection!

Looking to build new skills and connect with others this summer? Join us for a 6-week series of workshops focused on growth, learning, and community!

🗓 When: Every Friday from July 11 – August 15
⏰ Time: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 Where: Canadian Career Academy, Employment Resource Center
92 Bridge St., Carleton Place, ON K7C 2V3

06/26/2025

Looking to practice your English in a fun, relaxed setting? Join our free Conversation Circles this summer! ☀️🗣️
All are welcome — newcomers, temporary foreign workers, families, and more!
🗓 Thursdays | 🕥 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM | 📍ontrac Employment Center, 52 Abbott St N, unit 2 Smiths Falls ON K7A 1W3
Let’s build confidence in speaking together!

06/19/2025

Valley Heartland CFDC is hosting a Cross-Ministry Funders Forum – a unique opportunity to connect directly with provincial funders and learn about upcoming grant programs that support rural economic development, business growth, and workforce initiatives.

📅 Date: Monday, July 22, 2025
🕙 Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 Location: Valley Heartland | 91 Cornelia St W Smiths Falls, Entrance B - first door on the left

Hear from:
✅ Ministry of Rural Affairs
✅ Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade
✅ Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness
✅ Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development

Whether you're a local business, nonprofit, municipality, or service provider, this is your chance to get funding-ready and build key relationships.

🎟 Space is limited – register today: https://valleycfdc.ca/support/webinars

04/10/2025

Your Business Questions, Expert Answers!
Valley Heartland and Launch Lab are teaming up for free Advisory Days. Get tailored guidance to navigate challenges and seize opportunities.
How It Works:
✔ Book a free 1-hour session with an advisor.
✔ Connect with industry experts experienced in scaling businesses, marketing, and financial planning.
✔ Walk away with actionable advice to grow your business.
Topics Can Include:
• Investment readiness and funding strategies
• Marketing plans and business growth tactics
• Scaling your operations effectively
📍 Meet In-Person on July 30th 2025 2025 at the Valley Heartland Innovation Centre (91 Cornelia St, Smiths Falls) 👉 Spots are limited—book today! 🔗 https://calendly.com/valleycfdc-info/january-launch-lab-1on1

04/01/2025

Struggling to Scale Your Business? We Can Help!
Through our partnership with Launch Lab, Valley Heartland is hosting free Advisory Days designed to support your entrepreneurial journey.
What to Expect:
✔ 1-on-1 Sessions: Explore challenges and strategies with seasoned advisors.
✔ Expert Insights: Advisors with experience across industries, including telecom, marketing, and more.
✔ Cost-Free Support: Fully funded through provincial subsidies.
Possible Discussion Topics:
• Raising capital and managing cash flow
• Scaling operations and building growth strategies
• Product development and marketing
📍 In-Person on April 23rd 2025 at the Valley Heartland Innovation Centre (91 Cornelia St, Smiths Falls)🔗 Reserve your 1-hour session today! https://calendly.com/valleycfdc-info/january-launch-lab-1on1