Small Business

Retail, manufacturing and warehouse roles among jobs in demand in Aurora

19 February 2023

“There are a lot of new retail developments that are coming to Aurora to keep up with the increasing population and to support the people who are living and working there.”

‘Everyone can be a homepreneur’: Home-based businesses booming in Markham

19 February 2023

“Home businesses have been around as long as people have had homes,” said Chris Rickett, director, economic growth, culture and entrepreneurship, at the City of Markham.

East Gwillimbury becoming attractive spot for businesses

17 February 2023

#FutureOfWork East Gwillimbury is creating an employment corridor near Woodbine and Green Lane anchored by the new Loblaws Distribution Centre

APPLY NOW to ventureLAB’s Hardware Catalyst Initiative!

8 February 2023

ventureLAB’s Hardware Catalyst Initiative is now accepting applications. Learn more and apply by March 6!

YSpace Launches Three Programs

30 January 2023

Yspace, York University’s entrepreneurship hub, has launched 3 programs this month: Founder Fundamentals, Venture Catalyst and Tech Accelerator.

Construct, a social enterprise by Blue Door, welcomes first cohort at new training centre in Aurora

27 January 2023

“There are a lot of employment programs out there, but many are streamlining people into precarious work or employment that pays a minimum wage, but not necessarily a living wage,” explained Emily Rowe, Construct’s senior manager, social enterprise.

Markham Teen’s Passion for Art Evolves into Business Venture with Help From Summer Company Program

22 August 2022

“I was inspired by my fellow art friends on social media to open up an art product shop so that I would be able to physically share my art with a larger audience,” said Lum.

Stouffville Teen’s Passion for Photography Evolves into Business Venture with Help From Summer Company Program

22 August 2022

Students between the ages of 15 and 29 who registered to return to school full-time the following September are eligible to apply.

The program “helps students learn critical skills such as financial management, networking, and creating a detailed business plan,” he adds.

York Region Showcases Next Generation of Entrepreneurs

19 August 2022

The Summer Company program offers mentorship and start-up funding of $3,000. York Region small business consultant Vivian Ho-Tam said it is an important way to help aspiring young business owners.

York Region Agri-Food Business Spotlight: Turkey Shoot Brewing Co.

8 August 2022

There’s nothing we love more than getting into our community and talking to local business owners. We’re excited to bring you a new local agri-food business spotlight, featuring Turkey Shoot Brewing Company, from the Town of Georgina!

Rising Sun Store. Photo credit: Steve Somerville / Metroland

York Region Companies Reinvent Themselves During COVID

11 July 2022

While COVID-19 caused major losses for many businesses, leading some to close, others were able to reinvent themselves. For some, the pandemic actually saw increased demand for their products or led to a new opportunity.

Success Story: The Little Red Bake Shop

17 May 2022

Located in Newmarket, The Little Red Bake Shop specializes in custom gourmet baked goods and offers customers a cookie subscription box. Michelle started her business right at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. With the right support from the York Small Business Enterprise Centre, Michelle was able to successfully launch her business and continue to experience growth. “I would recommend the York Small Business Enterprise Centre to anybody who is thinking of starting a business […]

Success Story: Replenish General Store

25 April 2022

Based in Aurora, Replenish General Store specializes in helping customers reduce their waste and carbon footprint. Co-founders Thai and Bianca started the store just days before the global pandemic impacted the economy, but with the right support they were able to grow their business.