New Billoard - 2011

New Billoard - 2011
Bracebridge is a centre for Post-Secondary Education

Friday, December 31, 2010

RTO 12 - REGIONAL TOURISM ORGANIZATION - RFP

RTO 12 has issued an RFP for a Destination Development Plan for the newly formed Tourism Region that includes Muskoka, Parry Sound, Algonquin Park and South Algonquin Township.

Here is a link to the RFP.

Here is the link to RTO 12.

Is your business registered?

Follow this link to find out if your business is registered in the Town of Bracebridge Business Directory. 

Why should my business be registered in the Town's Business Directory?

- it is promoted through advertising for the Town/Community & the community portal http://www.theheartofmuskoka.com/

- it is FREE

- you control your listing - make as many changes and updates as required

- it is one more way for people who are searching for goods and services ON-LINE to find your business

- new features include FREE logos, more functional buttons (including links to your TWITTER account), more space for marketing messages.

If you have questions or you can't find your login information, call the Town's Economic Development Department at 645-5264.

Bridges to Better Business - January 27, 2011

Bridges to Better Business "Master Your Market" will be held at the Rotary Centre for Youth in Bracebridge beginning at 8:30 am. This year's event will focus on new sales and marketing techniques with peer to peer netowrking opportunities. The keynote speak for this year's event will be renowned marketing and sales expert, Curt Skene.


Contact the Muskoka Small Business Centre to register for this event.   For more information call 646 9021 or info@muskokasmallbusiness.ca

Registration $35 + HST

Monday, November 29, 2010

Using social media to promote your business

Building an online community is a key strategy for growing your business. Hear tips from social media experts Alex Blom, Erin Bury and Mark Evans on how they have built and managed their communities so that you can do the same

This is a link to MaRS Discovery District

MaRS is the hub of a growing community of organizations—in Ontario, across Canada and around the world—that are working together to help nurture innovation and bring new ideas to market.  The MaRS Ontario Gateway site is a directory of organizations with expertise that includes:
  • Advanced materials and engineering
  • Cleantech
  • Information technology, communications and entertainment (ICE)
  • Life sciences and health care
  • Social innovation

Saturday, November 27, 2010

Need to Hire People?

The Bracebridge Employment Resource Centre is sponsoring a Job Fair at the Bracebridge Sportsplex on Monday, March 1, 2010 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Sportsplex is located at 110 Clearbrook Trail in Bracebridge.

Approximately 32 local employers are registered so far to provide information about their business and employment opportunities.

For more information, contact the Bracebridge Employment Resource Centre, 195 Wellington Street, 705-646-2092.

Friday, November 26, 2010

Looking for business financing? Georgian Angel Network

Georgian Angel Network is a not-for-profit organization comprised of individual member-investors, as well as having strategic partnerships with both public and private sector organizations/businesses. GAN, is continually looking for opportunities which meet the group’s investment criteria (refer below). GAN website is www.georgianangelnet.ca , where there is additional information for both investors  & entrepreneurs.

The ENTREPRENEURS tab on the website was written to assist entrepreneurs “pre-qualify” their businesses as potential investment candidates for the GAN - the following investment criteria are the most relevant:

· Amount: $150k minimum (we will consider smaller investments for certain opportunities), and up to $500k of equity per transaction;

· Owners/management: must be “sophisticated”, and have experience in their domain or as a serial entrepreneur. A solid business plan is a must (including well-conceived financials), also including strong understanding of competitive landscape & go-to-market strategy;

· There should be a reasonable amount of cash equity already invested in the business from founders/family/friends (as the first source of equity capital), not just “sweat equity” which is treated as a given for any entrepreneur;

· Governance: should have a reasonably strong advisory board;

· “disruptive” technology, either an innovation based on an existing technology, or an entirely new product/technology ;

· Use of Proceeds: proceeds will be used to achieve determinable milestones;

· Customers must be well-defined & the addressable market potentially large;

· Stage: proven technology - preferably at the late-beta stage, or preferably already with revenue (demonstrating traction with customers); the market must be well-defined & the addressable market reasonably large. Sustainable competitive advantage & defensible product/technology, either by patented IP, joint venture relationship or strategic alliance;

· Return: equity return of 5x cash-on-cash in a 3 year exit scenario, or 8-10x cash-on-cash in a 5 year exit scenario (an identifiable exit is implicit in the investment opportunity).

ContactSandy Robertson

MANAGING DIRECTOR
(705) 441-4058 (mobile)
(705) 443-8576 (office)
Collingwood, ON
sandy@georgianangelnet.ca

GEORGIAN ANGEL NETWORK LOOKING FOR ANGELS

GAN is a regional angel group covering south-central Ontario. We are actively looking to grow the membership of the group.

Angels are high net worth (accredited) investors, who are interested in making direct equity investments in private companies, specifically start-ups. Companies that represent high-potential opportunities are of interest to angel groups. Angel groups like GAN represent an important step in the innovation chain, providing funding to early-stage companies to assist them in full commercialization of their technology or product.

GAN serves as a linkage mechanism between entrepreneurs who require equity capital, and angel investors who want to invest in these start-up opportunities. The angels bring not only their financial capital to bear, but augment this with their experiential and intellectual capital. Angels are typically successful entrepreneurs themselves, who started, built and (in many cases) sold their business and have the time and money to commit. They may also continue to be active in their own businesses, while making private equity investments as part of managing their overall net worth.

The GAN sources, reviews & vets opportunities, stages the investment meetings (2-3 companies present at each meeting) and facilitates due diligence to arrive at an investment agreement that is satisfactory to both the investors and investee companies. The investors make their own investment decisions on a case-by-case basis. GAN has a regional focus, and will also profile companies from outside the region if they present compelling investment opportunities.

GAN is a not-for-profit organization comprised of individual member-investors, as well as having strategic partnerships with both public and private sector organizations/businesses. GAN, as well as actively recruiting members to build the group, is continually looking for opportunities which meet the group’s investment criteria (refer below).

GAN website is http://www.georgianangelnet.ca/ , where there is additional information for both investors and; entrepreneurs.

Sandy Robertson
MANAGING DIRECTOR
(705) 441-4058 (mobile)
(705) 443-8576 (office)
Collingwood, ON
sandy@georgianangelnet.ca

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

AND THE WINNER IS!…2010 Business Awards

Carolyn's Comfort Homes presented the 17th Annual Bracebridge Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Business Achievement Awards & Luncheon on Wed. Oct. 20th at the Rotary Centre for Youth.

9 Awards were presented to individuals and businesses that were voted 'the best' in their category by Bracebridge Chamber members.

Those winners were:

The Alexandra Luke Gallery for Home Based Business of the Year. Accepting for The Alexandra Luke Gallery was owner Wendy Moses. This award was sponsored by Scotiabank and presented by Small Business Advisor Rosemary Featherstone.

Community Living South Muskoka won for Service Provider of the Year. Accepting for Community Living was Chief Executive Officer Ann Kenney. This award was also sponsored by Scotiabank and presented by Small Business Advisor Rosemary Featherstone.

Dr. David A.R. Cox - Optometrist won the Business of the Year Award. Accepting was Dr. Cox. This award was sponsored by TD Canada Trust and presented by Bank Manager Mark Harris.

One Fifty Five won the New Business of the Year Award. Accepting for One Fifty Five was Jan Rickard. This award was sponsored by OFFICEWorks and presented by owner Dianna Stevenson.

Tiggs Clothiers Ltd. won the Outstanding Retail Customer Service Award. Accepting for Tiggs was owner Julia Watson and staff member Zelda Evans. This award was sponsored by The Muskoka Staffing Company Ltd. and presented by owner Kelly MacDuff.

Dennis Meystadt of Meystadt's Mobile Mechanic Services won the Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Dennis accepted the award. This award was sponsored by RBC Royal Bank and presented by Bank Manager Mike Kenney.

John English of Oliver's Coffee won the Male Business Person of the Year Award. This award was sponsored by Saunders & Associates and presented by Andrea Beaupre.

Ruth Bell-Towns of BDO Canada LLP won the Female Business Person of the Year Award. Ruth accepted the award. This award was also sponsored by Saunders & Associates and presented by Andrea Beaupre.

Wendy Moses won the Outstanding Contribution to Bracebridge Award. for her work in organizing the Bracebridge Terry Fox run for the last 10 years. This award was sponsored by the Bracebridge Chamber of Commerce and presented by Chamber Past-President Bob Kerr.

From the Bracebridge Chamber of Commerce, E-Blast, October 26, 2010 - "Thank you to all of our sponsors, the nominees, winners and to everyone who nominated a business or person, took the time to vote and came out to support our nominees!"

Monday, October 18, 2010

SHOULD YOUR BUSINESS BE INCORPORATED?

This information was circulated by the Bracebridge Chamber of Commerce on behalf of one of its members.

Come and Get The Answers You Need!
Attend a FREE Information Session
Presented by Ken Garth, Tax Partner
BDO Canada LLP
Sponsored by Scotiabank

Thursday October 21, 2010
6:30pm
The Turner Centre, 120 Taylor Road Bracebridge
Light Refreshments Served
RSVP
Scotiabank, Bracebridge
(705) 645-2289
Business card draw for $50 Staples Gift Card

Thursday, October 14, 2010

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE - BUSINESS ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

The Bracebridge Chamber of Commerce 17th Annual Outstanding Business Achievement Awards Program and Luncheon will be held on Wed. Oct. 20th, 12noon at the Rotary Centre for Youth, 131 Wellington St., Bracebridge

Contact the Chamber for Information 705-645-5231

Ministry of Tourism - OTMPC Review Complete

The Ontario Minister of Tourism announced yesterday that the OTMPC Review that has been underway is now complete.  The review was part of the various actions that were recommended as a result of the Tourism Competitiveness Study.

Follow this link for the study

Bracebridge featured in publications

Please find links below to two on-line publications that are featuring business reports on the Town of Bracebrige.

The business report for The Town of Bracebridge has been included in both the October issues of Energy Digital Magazine (pg. 352 ) as well as Business Review Canada (pg. 69 ).

Energy Digital: http://www.energydigital.com/magazines/3315

Business Review Canada: http://www.businessreviewcanada.ca/magazines/3313

Ontario Tourism Education Council (OTEC) - COACHING FOR EXCELLENCE

Register for this training program for employers and supervisors.  November 3, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Location: OTEC Learning Centre, 21 Four Seasons Place, Suite 300, Toronto, ON M9B 6J8

Click Here for more information
 
 

Bracebridge Chamber of Commerce - Board Members

BRACEBRIDGE CHAMBER of COMMERCE is looking for new BOARD MEMBERS

There are several vacancies on the Chamber’s Board of Directors for the upcoming term 2010 – 2012. Nominations are being solicited and accepted at the Chamber office by fax (645-7952) or e-mail.

A brief description of the role of a Director, what can be expected and time commitment is available at the Chamber office. Eligibility – Chamber member in good standing, business owner and/or senior manager.

If you or a colleague, who gave consent, wants to be nominated please contact David Powley at 646-9711 or by e-mail at powley@muskoka.com. You may also contact John Crawley at 645-5231 (Chamber office) or by e-mail to jcrawley@bracebridgechamber.com. Please include a brief outline of your experience and why serving on the Chamber’s Board of Directors appeals to you.

The election of Directors will take place at the Chamber’s Annual General Meeting scheduled for Wednesday, November 17th at 7:00 pm.

Monday, October 4, 2010

OTMPC's Water Cooler - October 1st.

A new edition of the Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership's "Water Cooler" newsletter came out October 1st - have a look

Muskoka Marketplace

The Town of Bracebridge in partnership with Muskoka Arts & Crafts Inc., with funding from FedNor is spearheading a project that will see sixteen to eighteen artists from Muskoka featured in the Muskoka Marketplace at the Spring One of a Kind Show held in Toronto from March 30 until April 3. 2011.

Muskoka Arts and Crafts Inc. is the administrator of the project that will benefit all of Muskoka.

Link for the Call to Entry

Contact Muskoka Arts & Crafts if you need more information - 705-645-5501

Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium - FOOD SECTOR EVENT

Event Details:

November 10, 2010 8:00-11:00 am

Gay Lea Foods Co-operative Ltd.
21 Speedvale Avenue W Guelph, ON

Who Should Attend:
All EMC member contacts & invited Guests who wish to build advantage through excellence, improve their competitiveness & expand their knowledge network.

Agenda:
· Welcome and Introductions
* EMC Business Update
· Best Practice Event: Operations Overview & Continuous Improvement Initiatives
· Roundtable Networking & Feedback Opportunity
· Plant Tour & Adjournment

This initiative is supported by EMC’s food sector members and project partners: The City of Brockville, Municipality of Chatham-Kent, County of Lennox and Addington and City of Woodstock.

A free event requires pre-registration.  CLICK HERE TO RSVP THIS EVENT

ONTARIO MINISTRY OF TOURISM - PERFORMANCE BULLETIN

The June edition of the Tourism Performance Bulletin has just been released.

This monthly publication reports the latest tourism statistics including:

- Border Crossings
- Accommodation Statistics
- Travel Price Index
- Economic Indicators
- Consumer Response Indicators

The bulletin is available by linking here. 

Thursday, September 23, 2010

MINISTRY OF TOURISM - SPRING 2010 FACTS & FIGURES

The latest edition of the Facts & Figures newletter has just been released.  This quarterly tourism publication includes:
- Economic Outlook
- Tourism Statistics
- Special Topic – Social Benefits of Travel
- What’s New – New Research Tools and Publications, Upcoming Conferences

Link to here

The Research Team , Ontario Ministry of Tourism & Culture
900 Bay Street, Hearst Block, 10th Floor
Toronto, ON M7A 2E1

Thursday, September 9, 2010

NEW BUSINESS & TECHNLOGY CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE

Muskoka Community Network is hosting an event to celebrate the opening of this new facility at their offices, 440 Ecclestone Drive, Bracebridge on September 15th, 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The The Business and Technology Centre of Excellence is open for those in need of a business and technology facility to host their meetings, workshops or training sessions.

Click here for more information

OTEC - Coaching for Excellence Training

Here's a link to a workshop for managers/employers for coaching to better motivate employers - November 3rd at OTEC's training centre in Toronto

2010 Ontario Tourism Summit - Deerhurst - November 7th to 9th

2010 Theme: 'Taking it to the Next Level'

The stage is set. Economists are predicting strong growth for Ontario in 2010. New tourism regions have been announced. The Ontario tourism industry is poised for growth and ready to 'take it to the next level.' The 2010 conference program will focus on strategies to help the industry reach its future potential. Come and be inspired by how we can align our efforts to be more competitive.

Register at the Summit's website

MUSKOKA TOURISM 75TH ANNIVERSARY

Muskoka Tourism is hosting a casual celebration of their 75th Anniversary to be held on Tuesday, September 21, 2010 at the Muskoka Boat and Heritage Centre, 275 Steamship Bay Road, Gravenhurst;  6p.m. to 8 p.m.

For More information contact Larry Wright larry@muskokatourism.ca
Larry Wright, Manager Member Relations

Thursday, September 2, 2010

Ontario Wireless Trade Mission

The Ontario Ministry of Economic Development & Trade invites you to be part of the Ontario wireless trade mission to Orlando’s CTIA 2011 (www.ctiawireless.com). Twelve Ontario-based companies will have the opportunity to exhibit in award-winning Ontario Pavilion (# 2246) located off the main entrance, and near Samsung, Ericson, Kiocera, Sybase and NTT DoCoMo. Participants will also receive several value-added services including meetings with potential buyers, integrators and agents in and around Orlando.

With over 1,000 exhibitors and thousands of attendees from 125 countries, this is your opportunity to meet leading decision-makers interested in acquiring wireless technologies and content. Last year’s mission to the show was ranked by the participating Ontario companies with over 90% satisfaction rating.

How to apply: Please contact mauricio.ospina@ontario.ca for details

ONTARIO TRADE MISSION - MODELLING & SIMULATION & ELEARNING

The Ontario Ministry of Economic Development & Trade invites you to our Ontario trade mission to the U.S. in the Modelling & Simulation, and eLearning sectors. The mission includes turnkey exhibit space in the 20’ x 20’ award-winning Ontario Pavilion with signage, electricity and Internet access, meetings with distributors and VARs, and promotion during our Canada-U.S. business reception.

I/ITSEC attracts 16,000 attendees from over 40 countries and 500 exhibiting companies including U.S. prime contractors, large integrators and distributors such as SAIC, Lockheed Martin, L3Comm, Adobe, HP, CAE, Rockwell and BAE systems. Last year’s mission to the same city and show was ranked by the participating Ontario companies with over 90% satisfaction rating. There are 3 spots left at a cost of US$2,000 (Early Bird). Details attached.

How to apply: Please contact mauricio.ospina@ontario.ca for details

US IT BUYERS - GTSI Seeking Suppliers

The Canadian Embassy in D.C. has identified several procurement opportunities through Virginia-based GTSI Corp. This company is interested in identifying Canadian technology companies that have the capabilities in the areas listed below to assist the U.S. Federal government in achieving their IT initiatives. With $723.5 million in annual revenues and 719 employees, GTSI provides a Technology Lifecycle Management (TLM) approach to IT infrastructure solutions delivered through industry-leading professional and financial services. GTSI is seeking companies in the following areas:

Delivery of Citizen Centric Services: Particularly companies with experience using SharePoint, Drupal or Alfresco.

Cyber Security: The new Presidential Order for telework will require security that protects data going out. Currently, all the security measures are focused on securing data coming into the government networks; this means protecting the government networks when employees access them remotely. GTSI is looking for suppliers with components that are add-ons to Citrix or Mware.

Business Intelligence/Analytics: There is a need for companies that can customize CRM, ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle. GTSI needs companies that can design user interface dashboards that communicate with the disparate systems by organizing and presenting information in a way that is easy to read. FISMA currently certifies systems and is morphing into Fed RAMP. Fed RAMP includes 22 Federal agencies that will work together in certifying systems. There will be 120 controls to the certification process added this year requiring a dashboard to communicate the information in an easy to read format.

Private Cloud Computing: Creating private clouds for the U.S. Federal Government requires (Software as a Service) SaaS products. The U.S. Federal government is looking for a company that can host the SaaS model on a government's site rather than on the company site.

Private Cloud Computing: The Federal Data Center Consolidation Initiative requires an analysis by the OMB to look at capacity utilization, the amount of virtualization being done and the amount of energy each agency uses. GTSI is seeking a kilowatt meter technology that can calculate data center energy usage by each Federal agency.

Deadline: September 13, 2010. How to apply - Ontario companies are encouraged to apply for consideration by submitting a 100-words company profile, along with a contact person’s name, title, email and phone number. Send the required information to mauricio.ospina@ontario.ca (alll applicant’s information will be submitted to the Canadian embassy for further follow up).

U.S. INFORMATION TECHNLOGY BUYERS - INTEL and Critigen

Two major U.S. technology users and providers will be in Toronto (September 30) and Ottawa (October 1) to meet with Ontario technology companies interested in exploring partnering opportunities. Senior executives from Intel and Critigen are seeking Ontario suppliers of innovative IT and Heath IT technologies. Space is limited to 40 attendees in each city.

The program includes a seminar followed by networking and pre-approved 1:1 meetings between Ontario companies with the visiting U.S. executives and Trade Commissioners from Canadian Consulates in Phoenix and Buffalo. Also available for meetings in Toronto is the Executive Director of InfoTech Niagara, a leading trade association of Western New York's IT industry.

Deadline: September 13, 2010. How to apply -

Please contact the Town office for application details

Exporting to US Workshop, Barrie - September 15th.

The Ontario Ministry of Economic Development and Trade and the Greater Barrie Chamber of Commerce are pleased to present a seminar designed to help you understand the customs documentation required to clear your goods into the United States.

The seminar will also provide you with information on government programs and services to assist you in exporting. The seminar following topics will be presented:

􀁺 What is happening at the border?
􀁻 An overview of the Canadian Trade Commissioner

Services
􀁻 The Role of US Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
􀁻 The Role of the Customs Broker
􀁻 The Role Ontario Companies play as Importers of Record
􀂄 What are your responsibilities?
􀁺 Tariff Classifications, Country of Origin, NAFTA and

Record Keeping
􀁺 US Customs Documentation
􀁻 What documentation is required by CBP and other US Government Agencies?
􀁻 Incoterms
􀁺 An overview of ACE, C-TPAT, PIP and other government acronyms
􀁺 An overview of some of the costs
􀁻 Duty rates
􀁻 Merchandising Process Fees
􀁻 Customs Surety Bonds

Speakers include: 
Mary Mokka, Trade Commissioner, Canadian Consulate General, Buffalo
Jennifer Deans, C.C.S. Director, International Trade Consulting, Russell A. Farrow
Debbie Walker, Director, Community Export Development, International Trade Branch, Ontario
Ministry of Economic Development & Trade

To register & for more information Exporting to the US Workshop in Barrie

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

BRACEBRIDGE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE - AWARDS

The Bracebridge Chamber of Commerce 17th Annual Outstanding Business Achievement Awards Program and Luncheon will be held on Wed. Oct. 20th, 12noon at the Rotary Centre for Youth, 131 Wellington St., Bracebridge

Nine Awards will be presented in the following categories: (category descriptions & nomination form attached)

Male Business Person of the Year sponsored by Saunders & Associates Inc.
Female Business Person of the Year sponsored by Saunders & Associates Inc.
New Business of the Year sponsored by OFFICEWorks
Business of the Year sponsored by TD Canada Trust
Outstanding Retail Customer Service sponsored by Muskoka Staffing
Outstanding Contribution to Bracebridge sponsored by The Bracebridge Chamber of Commerce
Young Entrepreneur Award sponsored by RBC Royal Bank
Service Provider Award sponsored by Scotiabank
Home Based Business Award sponsored by Scotiabank

We invite you to help us choose those businesses that deserve a pat on the back. A detailed list of category descriptions and criteria is attached, along with a nomination form. Print out as many forms as you need. Businesses ARE ENCOURAGED to nominate themselves!

Nominations are due Fri. Sept. 17th at 4:00pm. at the Chamber office.

Link to the Nomination Form

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Ontario Tourism Education Council (OTEC) Accessiblity Training workshops

OTEC is promoting their fall training workshops

Follow this link for more information

OIL SANDS SUPPLIER OPPORTUNITY - CLEAN TECHNOLOGY

The Ministry of Economic Development & Trade along with the Alberta Government are hosting an event on September 21st from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Sheraton Hotel (Essex Ballroom) at 123 Queen Street West, Toronto.

You are invested to attend a special session featuring senior Alberta oil sands experts and industry leaders.

Learn about key oil sands technology initiatives that offer potential buisness opportunities for Ontario clean technology firms.

Participate in breakout sessions that will give your company relevant and strategic competitive information needed to seize these opportunities.

FEATURING, The Honourable Sandra Pupatello, Ontario Minister of Economic Development & Trade; The Honourable Iris Evans, Alberta Minister of Interational and Intergovernmental Relations; and, other key Alberta Cabinet Ministers.

RSVP to Amanda McHugh at 416-212-3880 or by email amanda.mchugh@ontario.ca by September 16, 2010

Visit this website for Ontario's Energy Connections

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

GLOBAL BUSINESS EXCHANGE - CME

September 30, 2010
Steam Whistle Brewing,
255 Bremner Blvd., Toronto

Exploring new markets and international partnership opportunities is essential for business growth in today’s global economy. CME Ontario’s Global Business Exchange will provide you with the opportunity to exchange opinions and gain insight into trade and investment opportunities around the world.


AGENDA

2:00 pm Business Opportunities in Emerging Markets - Brazil, Russia, India and more


3:30 pm Managing Risks in Going Global


5:00 pm Been There. Done That - CEO Success Stories


6:00 – 8:00 pm Trade Show and Reception/ Steam Whistle Brewery Tours


Global Business Exchange flyer


Registration is required. 

Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium - FOOD SECTOR

Attention: Food & Beverage Sector Processors & Manufacturers, Supply Chain Management,

EMC Special Food Sector Manufacturing Networking Event


Through EMC’s ‘Food Sector Manufacturing Network initiative’, Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium and Ontario’s Ministry Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) are helping Food and Beverage Processors/Manufacturers across Ontario to enhance global competitiveness, protect jobs and engage leading-edge professional peer-to-peer knowledge networks, manufacturing training, next generation web 2.0 online networking and labour-pool building initiatives.

“Supply Chain Management” is a Strategic Interest Group (SIG) Event open to all Food and Beverage Companies and those directly supplying manufactured product to this Industry. Our Guest Speakers and our Hosts for these special cross-Province Sessions look forward to welcoming you!

Events happening in September - Visit EMC's Food Sector Website for more information on this group

Taken from an email from EMC, August 20, 2010

TOURISM - CHINA MARKET POTENTIAL FOR THE AREA

This is a summary from Muskoka Tourism after a recent workshop in Toronto about this market.

During the recent G8 event, an Approved Destination Status (ADS) agreement was formally signed between China and Canada. While still tightly controlled and heavily regulated, ADS makes it somewhat easier for mainland Chinese residents to visit Canada. Over the years, China has signed approx 135 ADS agreements with other countries.

Recently, the Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership organized an excellent presentation that discussed the inbound market potential from China.

READER’S DIGEST VERSION
· If you are comfortable working with the travel trade, developing inbound business from China is not a big leap. However, the business model is different and requires careful due diligence. Please review the presentation material from the Canadian Inbound Tourism Association and Henry Yau, VP, TPI-Silkway.
· Canada is considered a long haul destination and perceived as expensive. Chinese consumers are price sensitive.
· ADS has opened up potential business from meetings, conventions, incentive travel and events. (Think about the 16,000 Amway sales representatives from mainland China who recently visited Australia for 7 days on an incentive trip).

MARKET POTENTIAL
· China’s population is 1.3 billion people with 1/3 of the people living in urban centres and 2/3 in rural areas.
· The gap between rich and poor is widening. Approx. 5% of the population holds 50% of the country’s savings.
· It is estimated that China’s middle class is expected account for 40% of the population by 2030.
· Beijing, Shanghai and the Guangdong region are key geographic markets.

BRAND RECOGNIITION
· Canada fares reasonably well. Pre ADS, Canada ranked 5th out 10 countries in unaided destination awareness and 3rd in unaided destination consideration.
· The top four travel motivators for Chinese visitors include: beautiful scenery; vibrant cities close to nature: observing wildlife in their natural habitat: and visiting national parks/protected areas. This is an excellent fit with Muskoka’s product.
· Chinese consumers respond well to high end, luxury status products. Please note increase in visitation to France post ADS in 2004 (slide 20).

LIFT
Since ADS, air service between mainland China and Canada is improving:
· Air Canada – offering double daily Beijing/Shanghai-Toronto as well as Beijing/Shanghai – Vancouver service.
· Air China – increase flights from daily Beijing/Vancouver to 10 a week. Addition of Beijing/Toronto service in 2011
· Hainan Airlines – new possible 3 flights per week Beijing/Toronto.
· China Eastern- new possible daily service in peak time travel times.
· China Southern- new possible service for 2011.

SALES CHAIN
The sales chain is short, highly regulated and requires an ongoing, long term commitment:

Consumers
· All Chinese consumers must deal with approved retail travel agencies and tour operators based in China. This link provides a list of 465 approved retail outlets and tour operators in China http://en.cnta.gov.cn/TravelInChina/Forms/TravelInChina/TravelAgencies.aspx
· Each Chinese visitor must post a personal bond equivalent to $12,000 before he/she can leave the country.
· Each Chinese visitor must follow a strict visa process.

Chinese Tour Operators
· All approved outbound Chinese tour operators must deal with an approved inbound Canadian Receptive Tour Operator (RTO).

Canadian Receptive Tour Operators (RTO)
· All inbound RTOs are being accredited by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada. See this link for accreditation process http://www.tiac.travel/china/
· Click on this link for information about the 16 accredited RTOs in Canada as of August 2010 http://www.tiac.travel/china/accredited.htm

SUMMARY
· In the short term, China represents a medium size international market for Ontario with strong annual growth.
· Opportunity to create Toronto/Muskoka/Ottawa/Niagara long haul tour packages. Build on the affinity with Dr. Norman Bethune.
· ADS has cleared the way to implement marketing programs aimed Chinese consumers through approved Chinese tour operators.
· Follow the lead of the Canadian Tourism Commission and OTMP as they develop in-market campaigns.
· Develop strong relationships with approved RTOs in Canada promoting Muskoka experiences.

Thursday, May 13, 2010

HST WORKSHOP - YWCA - June 9th.

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is offering free seminars to help businesses make a smooth transition to the Harmonized Sales tax (HST) in time for July 1, 2010. Find out what steps you need to take to prepare for the changeover and how the HST will affect your business.

The YWCA Muskoka is hosting a free information session in Bracebridge on Wednesday June 9th at 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at YWCA Muskoka 440 Ecclestone Dr. Bracebridge seating is limited contact Lynda Hutt at wib@ywcamuskoka.com to reserve your space.

Taken from the Muskoka Small Business Centre's May Newsletter

ONTARIO SUMMER COMPANY PROGRAM

Summer Company deadline has now been extended until May 24, 2010. If you or a student you know wants to apply to Summer Company they still have time! All applications are received online Contact the Muskoka Small Business Centre at (705) 646-9021 if you have questions.



From the Muskoka Small Business Centre's May Newsletter

CELEBRATE IN BRACEBRIDGE ALL SUMMER LONG!

The Bracebridge Festival Network is up and running for its second year.

Their plans include production of a cooperative rack card, signage at JD Lang Park and an advertisement/editorial segment in Sun Media’s Escape from the City publication.

The BBFN welcomed 3 new organizations this year. The group includes the following events:

1. BIA’s Fathers Day Car Show
2. Cottage Country Comedy Festival
3. Art in the Heart
4. Muskoka Pioneer Power Show
5. MAC’s Summer Show
6. BIA’s Midnight Madness
7. Prism in the Park’s “Twelfth Night”
8. Muskoka Model Railway Show
9. Bracebridge Highland Games
10. Reggae Muskoka Bob Marley Festival
11. Muskoka Beer Festival

Click here for dates and contacts for each event.

DO YOU WANT TO SUPPLY TO THE ENERGY SECTOR?

Global Petroleum Show, Calgary, Alberta - June 8-10, 2010:

The Global Petroleum Show (GPS) is quickly approaching. This bi-annual event is the premiere show for any manufacturer who wishes to supply to the energy sector.
GPS plays host to more than 2,000 exhibiting companies and 60,000 registered attendees from all over the world.

The Ontario Government will have a booth at the show. We will actively promote the Energy Connections Directories of Ontario Manufacturers and Suppliers at the show, encouraging potential business partners to connect with Ontario companies. Please update/submit your company profile here: www.ontario.ca/energyconnections (Oil Sands)

For additional information and registration information for the Global Petroleum Show visit:
http://www.globalpetroleumshow.com/

Please take a moment now to update your profile, and register for the event.

Taken from Ontario Government, ENERGY CONNECTIONS Team

FESTIVAL & EVENT STRATEGY 2010

Five different groups will receive funding for 2010 events through the Town's Event Tourism Grant Program. They include:

Muskoka Beer Festival
Reggae Muskoka
Cottage Country Comedy Festival
Prism in the Park
Bracebridge Tri Kids event


For more information about when these events will happen, visit the Bracebridge Festival Network website including links to each of their websites.

ART IN THE HEART - CALL FOR ENTRY

Are you a jeweler, woodworker, seamstress, or weaver?

Have you ever thought about selling your art to the general public? Art in the Heart is a juried outdoor art market that takes place in downtown Bracebridge weekends from July 3 to August 1. Call Jill Harris at 645-5264 and get more information about this innovative art market and how you can participate. Art in the Heart is open to all visual art forms and the deadline to apply has been extended to May twentieth.

Here is the link to the application form and more information:

www.artintheheartbracebridge.com

Monday, April 12, 2010

2010 FRESHWATER SUMMIT coming to Bracebridge

REGISTER NOW FOR THE 2010 FRESHWATER SUMMIT

From Science to Policy

This is your opportunity to help influence policy on the management of our freshwater. Freshwater is an important local, provincial, national, and international resource and how we manage our inland lakes and rivers has economic, social, and environmental implications. The 2010 Freshwater Summit will highlight issues and trends and examine policy options for future action. A position paper will be developed and submitted to the federal and provincial government.

Key Note Speakers:
1. Maude Barlow
2. Henry Lickers
3. Gord Miller
4. David Schnidler
5. John Smol
6. Norman Yan

Join Us:
June 1 & 2, 2010
Rene M Caisse Memorial Theatre
Bracebridge, Ontario

Space is limited, so register early! Visit our website for the agenda and information on speakers and accommodation.
http://www.2010freshwatersummit.org/.

G8

Are you still trying to find out how to do business with the Federal Government/the G8 organizers?

Simply go to MERX and search "G8"

http://www.merx.com/

http://g8.gc.ca/home/