Simply exploring a business idea? 
Seriously considering a plan?   
Ready to expand?
We're committed to helping you.
       The Business Alliance is a Chamber initiated partnership to help create, strengthen and connect local business networks dedicated to providing you information and opportunity.      
     Make that first call to Chamber Manager, Bert Loopstra, who will be happy to meet with you and point you in the right direction for business research and start-up support. Our alliance also bridges major manufacturing, city business development and educational partners.  We can direct you to business mentoring programs and extensive business statistics.  Below we detail two key partners followed by links to Georgion College and the Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium, located here in Owen Sound, as well as City Hall Community Development.  

The Business Enterprise Centre –Owen Sound and Area is part of the Ontario Small Business Support Network.  It offers support to entrepreneurs through the early stages of business development. Manager Jane Phillips and Centre staff are there to offer advice as the business grows during those crucial first years.Here's a brief review on how they can help you:
- No fee consultations to aid in the start up and growth of your business
- No fee assistance to existing businesses that wish to expand, re-organize or just improve
- Information regarding the regulations of all levels of government including taxation and employment
- Answers to many business related questions including employee issues, marketing, export, sourcing suppliers, and new product development
- No fee guidance and support through business planning including market research and financial forecasting - Information on copyrights, patents and trademarks
- Review of business plans

Downtown Improvement Area 
Owen Sound's downtown is the dynamic retail and commercial centre of the community.  It defines this city. A beautiful main street with historic facades, redeveloped streetscapes and waterfront make Owen Sound's downtown a unique business location.
    Market research indicates that over 40% of residents in Grey & Bruce browse or shop in downtown retail or food stores.  Leading professional and technical businesses and the majority of Owen Sound's retail banking establishments are located on the main street. An entertainment district with over 15 restaurants and pubs, the Tom Thomson Art Gallery, Billy Bishop and Marine Rail Museums, Roxy Theatre, the Artists' Co-op, private galleries, live music, and specialized boutique shops are dotted amongst coffee shops and book stores.  
     Consider Downtown Owen Sound for your new business location and take advantage of the busy and thriving commercial centre of the community.

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        Links to:
                             City Community Development   

Georgian College  
                


  Excellence in Manufacturing