SMART Program Session April 2nd, Bracebridge

There were about 35 people at the session today at the Riverside Inn including businesses from Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Huntsville and Port Carling. There were a number of local agencies represented as well including Muskoka Small Business Centre and Muskoka Futures. Of course the Town of Bracebridge Economic Development Department was the host organization.

Many aspects of the SMART program was discussed. Here is a brief overview from the notes.

1. "Fundable" Projects include those that are Productivity Improvements; Information Technology, Green/Energy Efficiency
2. Two types of Projects - Implementation & Feasibility Studies
3. You can also do an assessment of your business/process/facility to determine what projects you should should undertake. An on-line assessment tool is available and you can also get an on-site assessment. The online assessment will give you report card for how "lean" your processes are or your energy efficiency.
4. Assessment funding is up to $6000 *(50% funding)
5. Project funding is up to $50,000 *(50% funding)
6. You don't need to do an assessment to get project funding - you could apply straight to/for project funding.
7. Turn around time - up to 45 days. Applications are accepted on a continuous basis until May 31, 2009.

Here are some application tips -

Make sure you have a reference organization - check out the website - if you don't have a referee, your application will be rejected

1. Ensure that your project will start within 60 days of approval
2. Ensure that your project will be completed within 4 to 6 months
3. Not more than 50% of the project can be completed at the time of application
4. The project cannot be started more than 60 days prior to application date

Here is the link the Smart Program website

Here is a link to the Yves Landry Foundation - another program for manufacturers - this one helps with training.