For Immediate Release - August 22, 2019

The Honourable Ernie Hardeman, Ontario Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs is scheduled to visit Downtown Guelph Monday, August 26th to celebrate the success of the “Digital Main Street” project in Guelph and Wellington County

The $12 million initiative is funded by the Province and delivered through the Ontario Business Improvement Area Association (OBIAA). Its purpose is to help “main-street” businesses across Ontario grow their digital presence and adopt new technologies.

Locally, a Digital Service Squad based in the Business Centre of Guelph-Wellington has been out meeting with businesses to help them get the digital training they need and assess their eligibility for grants of up to $2,500.  

“This is a great program,” says Marty Williams, Executive Director of the Downtown Guelph Business Association. “It’s money well spent, and I’m glad that the Province recognizes the value of helping small businesses compete in the digital realm.” 

Kristel Manes, Executive Director of the Business Centre Guelph-Wellington adds “We have seen a good uptake and the results are very promising. These small grants are making a big difference.”

On Monday August 26th from 11:30AM to 1PM media outlets and small main street businesses are welcome to come to the Business Centre GW on Macdonell Street to learn more about the initiative, hear about local successes, and meet the Digital Service Squad. 

Remarks from OBIAA and the Minister are at 12:30.

For more event details visit here.

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