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- CF Ontario Newsletter "The Update"
- Coronavirus (COVID-19) Preparedness
IN THE NEWS
- Please check your FedDev Ontario and CF Ontario information
- Manitoulin Community Futures leader recognized with Indspire award
- DELIA program launches in Eastern Ontario
- Social Media and Digital Communications
- Ontario Chamber of Commerce 2020 Report
- Have your say: Ontario launches small businesses consultations
- Addressing RRSP market volatility
TRAINING & FUNDING
- ECM Education Series - Client Management Part 2 - March 26
- Free Financial Fundamentals course
NEW IDEAS
- Will film and TV give Ontario’s rural communities an economic boost?
- Community safety boosted by advances at New Venture13 Policetech Accelerator
- This Canadian town bought a medical clinic for a dollar
- Podcasts
FEATURE
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Preparedness
Announcements are being made daily and accommodations are being made to reduce risk of exposure and the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19).
With that in mind, if you have not seen it already, CF Ontario has prepared a Pandemic Emergency Plan for your office use. This plan was originally created for the SARS epidemic but has been updated to address COVID-19.
You can access the document from our website (You must sign in as a member):
https://cfontario.ca/index.php/best-practices/pandemic-preparedness/7680-2020-cfdc-pandemic-emergency-plan-template
As things evolve, announcements may also be made in relation to relief and we will continue to communicate what is relayed to us when it becomes available.
Some of you will be working from home. If you are not familiar with using the Zoom platform (video meetings/conferencing) here is registration to introductory online courses.
Government of Canada information for businesses can be found here currently, although more information may become available.
The Globe and Mail recently published this article about the legalities and responsibilities of a workplace during an epidemic, like COVID-19.
This Globe and Mail article talks about communications both externally and internally.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Preparedness
Announcements are being made daily and accommodations are being made to reduce risk of exposure and the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19).
With that in mind, if you have not seen it already, CF Ontario has prepared a Pandemic Emergency Plan for your office use. This plan was originally created for the SARS epidemic but has been updated to address COVID-19.
You can access the document from our website (You must sign in as a member):
https://cfontario.ca/index.php/best-practices/pandemic-preparedness/7680-2020-cfdc-pandemic-emergency-plan-template
As things evolve, announcements may also be made in relation to relief and we will continue to communicate what is relayed to us when it becomes available.
Some of you will be working from home. If you are not familiar with using the Zoom platform (video meetings/conferencing) here is registration to introductory online courses.
Government of Canada information for businesses can be found here currently, although more information may become available.
The Globe and Mail recently published this article about the legalities and responsibilities of a workplace during an epidemic, like COVID-19.
This Globe and Mail article talks about communications both externally and internally.
IN THE NEWS
Please check your FedDev Ontario and CF Ontario information
FedDev Ontario Small Business Services (SBS) has recently launched a new website: https://sbs-spe.feddevontario.canada.ca/ . Please check that your information listing is correct here.
If changes need to be made, please use the contact information below.
Pitija Sothilingam: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. | Tel: 416-420-1194
With that in mind, please check also that your member listing with CF Ontario is correct here.
Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with any changes that need to be made.
Please check your FedDev Ontario and CF Ontario information
FedDev Ontario Small Business Services (SBS) has recently launched a new website: https://sbs-spe.feddevontario.canada.ca/ . Please check that your information listing is correct here.
If changes need to be made, please use the contact information below.
Pitija Sothilingam: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. | Tel: 416-420-1194
With that in mind, please check also that your member listing with CF Ontario is correct here.
Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with any changes that need to be made.
Manitoulin Community Futures leader recognized with Indspire award
Dawn Madahbee Leach, who hails from Aundeck Omni Kaning, a community on Manitoulin Island in the northern part of Lake Huron, has been named one of four 2020 laureates by Indspire.
Indspire is a national charity that works with Indigenous, private, and public sector stakeholders to educate, connect, and invest in Indigenous people so they will achieve their highest potential. Madahbee Leach was recognized for her contributions in business and commerce.
Congratulations Dawn!
Manitoulin Community Futures leader recognized with Indspire award
Dawn Madahbee Leach, who hails from Aundeck Omni Kaning, a community on Manitoulin Island in the northern part of Lake Huron, has been named one of four 2020 laureates by Indspire.
Indspire is a national charity that works with Indigenous, private, and public sector stakeholders to educate, connect, and invest in Indigenous people so they will achieve their highest potential. Madahbee Leach was recognized for her contributions in business and commerce.
Congratulations Dawn!
DELIA program launches in Eastern Ontario
DELIA is Northumberland CFDC's fintech-driven lending platform and entrepreneurial development initiative for innovative women-led business in exurban Eastern Ontario.
The objective of DELIA is to help women start, scale up and expand their innovative high growth potential ventures. The initiative will support a minimum of 30 businesses by 2023."
DELIA program launches in Eastern Ontario
DELIA is Northumberland CFDC's fintech-driven lending platform and entrepreneurial development initiative for innovative women-led business in exurban Eastern Ontario.
The objective of DELIA is to help women start, scale up and expand their innovative high growth potential ventures. The initiative will support a minimum of 30 businesses by 2023."
Social Media and Digital Communications
Our newsletter has a new look and we welcome your feedback. Please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with comments/suggestions. We also now have a LinkedIn account and an active Instagram account.
Please follow us!
Social Media and Digital Communications
Our newsletter has a new look and we welcome your feedback. Please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with comments/suggestions. We also now have a LinkedIn account and an active Instagram account.
Please follow us!
Ontario Chamber of Commerce 2020 Report
Ontario Chamber of Commerce’s (OCC) fourth annual Ontario Economic Report (OER) reveals opportunities where both business and government can focus to create an environment more conducive to small business success.
The inaugural Small Business Friendliness Indicator (SBFI) measures Ontario’s competitiveness from the perspective of small businesses. For 2020, the SBFI score is -9, (on a scale of 100 to -100), indicating that this province’s environment is viewed as unfriendly by small business.
Ontario Chamber of Commerce 2020 Report
Ontario Chamber of Commerce’s (OCC) fourth annual Ontario Economic Report (OER) reveals opportunities where both business and government can focus to create an environment more conducive to small business success.
The inaugural Small Business Friendliness Indicator (SBFI) measures Ontario’s competitiveness from the perspective of small businesses. For 2020, the SBFI score is -9, (on a scale of 100 to -100), indicating that this province’s environment is viewed as unfriendly by small business.
Have your say: Ontario launches small businesses consultations
Feedback will help shape the Small Business Success Strategy.
The announcement happened after a roundtable in Toronto with 25 female entrepreneurs to highlight the fact that only 17% of small- and medium-sized businesses are owned or led by women in Ontario today.
The government will be holding a series of provincewide small business roundtables addressing five key pillars:
- Lowering costs
- Increasing exports
- New technologies
- Talent development
- Succession planning and supporting entrepreneurship
*Please note these consultations may be postponed indefinitely.
The government is also welcoming feedback from businesses online. Business owners can fill out an online survey here and send in an email submission by September 1, 2020.
Have your say: Ontario launches small businesses consultations
Feedback will help shape the Small Business Success Strategy.
The announcement happened after a roundtable in Toronto with 25 female entrepreneurs to highlight the fact that only 17% of small- and medium-sized businesses are owned or led by women in Ontario today.
The government will be holding a series of provincewide small business roundtables addressing five key pillars:
- Lowering costs
- Increasing exports
- New technologies
- Talent development
- Succession planning and supporting entrepreneurship
*Please note these consultations may be postponed indefinitely.
The government is also welcoming feedback from businesses online. Business owners can fill out an online survey here and send in an email submission by September 1, 2020.
Addressing RRSP market volatility
Many of you belong to the Manulife RRSP program. Below is a message from Brett Marchand, Head of Canada Retirement with Manulife.
Innovation Bulletin
"I am writing to let you know how we are meeting your needs, managing your plan, and protecting your interests in response to COVID-19. If you’re anything like me, your personal and professional email had a surge of COVID-19 messages over the last few days, so I’ll try to keep this brief. Below, you’ll find a number of steps we're taking for your organization and your members. As a leader myself, I know the best person for your members to hear this from is you, so please pass along to your members the information you feel they need to know.
Service adjustments to support our plan sponsors and their members
Webinar for people concerned about the stock markets
With current market conditions, we want to ease everyone’s concerns by making information available. We’re adding new dates and inviting members to attend a LIVE webinar, “Market Fluctuations,” on a variety of days and times. We’ll send details to members who have an email address on file with us. For members with no email in our files, a recorded presentation will be available on our website. Emails will not be sent to members of plans where there is a restriction under the plan sponsor’s contract.
Live webinars – “Market Fluctuations”.
• March 19 (English and French)
• March 24 (English)
• March 26 (French)
• March 31 (English)
Our websites and mobile applications offer you and your members a safe and reliable way to interact with your plans. You can also manage your plan through our plan administrator sites, eliminating the need for paper or post.
Plan members can register for the secure site and download the Manulife Mobile app."
Addressing RRSP market volatility
Many of you belong to the Manulife RRSP program. Below is a message from Brett Marchand, Head of Canada Retirement with Manulife.
Innovation Bulletin
"I am writing to let you know how we are meeting your needs, managing your plan, and protecting your interests in response to COVID-19. If you’re anything like me, your personal and professional email had a surge of COVID-19 messages over the last few days, so I’ll try to keep this brief. Below, you’ll find a number of steps we're taking for your organization and your members. As a leader myself, I know the best person for your members to hear this from is you, so please pass along to your members the information you feel they need to know.
Service adjustments to support our plan sponsors and their members
Webinar for people concerned about the stock markets
With current market conditions, we want to ease everyone’s concerns by making information available. We’re adding new dates and inviting members to attend a LIVE webinar, “Market Fluctuations,” on a variety of days and times. We’ll send details to members who have an email address on file with us. For members with no email in our files, a recorded presentation will be available on our website. Emails will not be sent to members of plans where there is a restriction under the plan sponsor’s contract.
Live webinars – “Market Fluctuations”.
• March 19 (English and French)
• March 24 (English)
• March 26 (French)
• March 31 (English)
Our websites and mobile applications offer you and your members a safe and reliable way to interact with your plans. You can also manage your plan through our plan administrator sites, eliminating the need for paper or post.
Plan members can register for the secure site and download the Manulife Mobile app."
TRAINING & FUNDING
ECM Education Series - Client Management Part 2 - March 26
This course is offered Thursday, March 26, 2020 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM ADT.
It builds on the content covered in 'Client Management Part 1' and reaches deeper into building and managing client relationships.
Client Management Part 2 is perfect for early-career business development professionals who wish to enhance their client relationship support skills, or for professionals at any point in their career who would like to return to basics or who have specific client relationship challenges.
Online cost: $250.00 per person and $225.00 for each additional participant from the same organization.
Duration: 4 hours + two-hour self-directed assignment to receive a certificate of completion.
Registration Deadline, Mar. 16, 2020
ECM Education Series - Client Management Part 2 - March 26
This course is offered Thursday, March 26, 2020 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM ADT.
It builds on the content covered in 'Client Management Part 1' and reaches deeper into building and managing client relationships.
Client Management Part 2 is perfect for early-career business development professionals who wish to enhance their client relationship support skills, or for professionals at any point in their career who would like to return to basics or who have specific client relationship challenges.
Online cost: $250.00 per person and $225.00 for each additional participant from the same organization.
Duration: 4 hours + two-hour self-directed assignment to receive a certificate of completion.
Registration Deadline, Mar. 16, 2020
Free Financial Fundamentals course
Many entrepreneurs sabotage their company’s success because they are unaware of how to properly manage their finances. This game will equip you with the basic financial knowledge and skills you need to manage your business’s finances and make sound decisions to guide your company’s growth.
Topics covered include:
- Cash flow management and why it’s important
- Financial reports and how they give you a full picture of your financial situation
- Analyzing and improving your company’s profits
- Performance monitoring to address problems early
- Raising capital to help grow your business
Device compatibility: Computer (optimal), tablet, smart phone
Duration: 2 hours
Free Financial Fundamentals course
Many entrepreneurs sabotage their company’s success because they are unaware of how to properly manage their finances. This game will equip you with the basic financial knowledge and skills you need to manage your business’s finances and make sound decisions to guide your company’s growth.
Topics covered include:
- Cash flow management and why it’s important
- Financial reports and how they give you a full picture of your financial situation
- Analyzing and improving your company’s profits
- Performance monitoring to address problems early
- Raising capital to help grow your business
Device compatibility: Computer (optimal), tablet, smart phone
Duration: 2 hours
NEW IDEAS
Will film and TV give Ontario’s rural communities an economic boost?
Ontario's film and television industry had a record-breaking year in 2019, with 343 productions bringing in $2.16 billion in production spending for the economy and supporting 44,540 full-time equivalent direct and spin-off jobs.
"The economic and employment benefits of Ontario's vibrant film and television industry are felt across the province, with popular and critically acclaimed productions like Cardinal and Letterkenny produced in Northern Ontario; Hilda in Ottawa; and Workin' Moms, Kim's Convenience and Star Trek: Discovery in the Greater Toronto Area. The Umbrella Academy, Schitt's Creek and many others are filmed across Central and Southwestern Ontario.”
Will film and TV give Ontario’s rural communities an economic boost?
Ontario's film and television industry had a record-breaking year in 2019, with 343 productions bringing in $2.16 billion in production spending for the economy and supporting 44,540 full-time equivalent direct and spin-off jobs.
"The economic and employment benefits of Ontario's vibrant film and television industry are felt across the province, with popular and critically acclaimed productions like Cardinal and Letterkenny produced in Northern Ontario; Hilda in Ottawa; and Workin' Moms, Kim's Convenience and Star Trek: Discovery in the Greater Toronto Area. The Umbrella Academy, Schitt's Creek and many others are filmed across Central and Southwestern Ontario.”
Community safety boosted by advances at New Venture13 Policetech Accelerator
Northumberland Community Futures Development Corporation (CFDC) is pleased to announce the launch of the Venture13 Policetech Accelerator™ in partnership with Cobourg Police Services (CPS).
“The accelerator will offer research and development partnership opportunities, technology pilots (demonstration and validation) and investments through two streams (Policetech Start-Ups and Policetech Scale-Ups).”
Community safety boosted by advances at New Venture13 Policetech Accelerator
Northumberland Community Futures Development Corporation (CFDC) is pleased to announce the launch of the Venture13 Policetech Accelerator™ in partnership with Cobourg Police Services (CPS).
“The accelerator will offer research and development partnership opportunities, technology pilots (demonstration and validation) and investments through two streams (Policetech Start-Ups and Policetech Scale-Ups).”
This Canadian town bought a medical clinic for a dollar
Clinic owners, facing illness and staffing challenges turned to the town of Niverville, Manitoba with a plan to make a 'mini Mayo'.
“After the deal takes effect on March 2, the town will own and operate the clinic, and all profits will be rolled back into maintaining and expanding the centre itself.”
This Canadian town bought a medical clinic for a dollar
Clinic owners, facing illness and staffing challenges turned to the town of Niverville, Manitoba with a plan to make a 'mini Mayo'.
“After the deal takes effect on March 2, the town will own and operate the clinic, and all profits will be rolled back into maintaining and expanding the centre itself.”
Podcasts
Many of us spend time on the road and podcasts can be a great way to unwind, learn something new or listen to a good story. And also promote your services! Shoutout to Community Futures Huron and its audio feature, “Small Business Minute”! (Find the audio below the President’s Message video on the left-hand side)
We recently posted on social media looking for your suggestions for podcasts. Every so often we’ll add a few to this newsletter.
Here are some suggestions from followers:
Freakonomics Radio – The Hidden Side of Everything
Each week, Freakonomics Radio tells you things you always thought you knew (but didn’t) and things you never thought you wanted to know (but do) — from the economics of sleep to how to become great at just about anything
On How I Built It, you’ll get insight from small business owners and developers on how they built their products, from idea to execution. You will learn real processes for launching, and evolving your business over time.
Mike Hillman and Trevor Blondeel have been in manufacturing for over 25 years, and saw a need in Manufacturing for mindfulness. For people looking for ideas to have a better day in their chaos, this is the place!
Host and adman Terry O'Reilly explores why we make the shopping decisions we make, and how we are influenced by words, colours and images. He tells stories of the remarkable creativity found at the Higher realms of marketing, and analyzes the ads we love to hate.
More suggestions welcome. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Podcasts
Many of us spend time on the road and podcasts can be a great way to unwind, learn something new or listen to a good story. And also promote your services! Shoutout to Community Futures Huron and its audio feature, “Small Business Minute”! (Find the audio below the President’s Message video on the left-hand side)
We recently posted on social media looking for your suggestions for podcasts. Every so often we’ll add a few to this newsletter.
Here are some suggestions from followers:
Freakonomics Radio – The Hidden Side of Everything
Each week, Freakonomics Radio tells you things you always thought you knew (but didn’t) and things you never thought you wanted to know (but do) — from the economics of sleep to how to become great at just about anything
On How I Built It, you’ll get insight from small business owners and developers on how they built their products, from idea to execution. You will learn real processes for launching, and evolving your business over time.
Mike Hillman and Trevor Blondeel have been in manufacturing for over 25 years, and saw a need in Manufacturing for mindfulness. For people looking for ideas to have a better day in their chaos, this is the place!
Host and adman Terry O'Reilly explores why we make the shopping decisions we make, and how we are influenced by words, colours and images. He tells stories of the remarkable creativity found at the Higher realms of marketing, and analyzes the ads we love to hate.
More suggestions welcome. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
The Update - Your Newsletter
Do you have feedback or story ideas for the next Update? Contact Community Futures Ontario at 1-888-633-2326 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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Community Futures Ontario, 300 South Edgeware Road, St. Thomas ON N5P 4L1
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