Supporting local businesses in Niagara isn't just about shopping—it's about building a thriving economic ecosystem that benefits everyone. Whether you're an entrepreneur launching your first venture, an established business owner looking to expand, or a community member wanting to make an impact, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Niagara's robust business support network.

Last Updated: November 2025

Why Supporting Niagara Businesses Matters

When you support a Niagara business, you're doing more than making a purchase—you're investing in your community's future. Every dollar spent at a local business keeps money circulating within the region, creating jobs for your neighbors, funding local youth sports teams, and contributing to the tax base that maintains your roads, parks, and community services.

The Niagara Region has united around the "Shop, Support and Share Local" initiative, a coordinated effort across all 12 municipalities to strengthen the local economy. This isn't just about spending money—it's about building relationships, amplifying local voices, and creating a resilient economic foundation.

The Multiplier Effect of Local Spending

When you hire Niagara Stands Out for your custom signage, vehicle wraps, or promotional materials, you're supporting a locally-owned print shop that employs Niagara residents, sources from regional suppliers, and reinvests profits back into the community.

Small Business Enterprise Centres: Your First Stop for Success

Small Business Enterprise Centres (SBECs) are the backbone of entrepreneurial support in Niagara. These government-funded organizations provide free, confidential one-on-one consultations for anyone starting or growing a business.

Niagara Falls Small Business Enterprise Centre

Services Offered:

• Business plan development assistance – Expert guidance to create investor-ready business plans
• Registration and licensing support – Navigate federal, provincial, and municipal requirements
• Market research resources – Access to industry data and competitive analysis tools
• Workshop series – Regular training on marketing, finance, and operations
• Networking events – Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and industry mentors

St. Catharines Enterprise Centre (SCEC)

Services Offered:

• Small Business Starter Kit – Comprehensive guides covering business validation, registration, regulations, and marketing
• Training seminars – Expert-led sessions on business fundamentals
• French-language services – Services available in both official languages
• Program delivery – Hosts Starter Company Plus and Summer Company programs

Government Funding Programs That Fuel Growth

Niagara entrepreneurs have access to exceptional funding opportunities that can provide the capital needed to launch or scale operations.

🎯 Starter Company Plus: Launch with Up to $5,000

Starter Company Plus is Ontario's flagship entrepreneurship program, delivered locally through the Niagara Falls SBEC and St. Catharines Enterprise Centre.

Program Benefits Include:

• Intensive training workshops covering business planning, financial management, and marketing strategies
• One-on-one mentorship from experienced business professionals
• Networking opportunities with fellow entrepreneurs and established business owners
• Pitch competition for micro-grants up to $5,000 to invest in startup costs

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Canadian citizen or permanent resident
• Business less than 2 years in operation
• Not attending school full-time
• Planning to operate business full-time
• Business must be legal in Ontario and an independent venture

☀️ Summer Company: Youth Entrepreneurship Program

Summer Company provides Ontario students with mentorship, training, and startup funding to operate a business during summer break.

Program Features:

• Up to $3,000 in startup funding
• Business training and mentorship throughout summer
• Skills development in sales, marketing, customer service, and financial management
• Parent/guardian consent required for participants under 18

Application Deadline: Typically early April (April 10, 2025 for current intake)

🌱 Innovate Niagara: i.d.e.a. Fund for Clean-Tech

Innovate Niagara, one of Ontario's 17 Regional Innovation Centres (RICs), delivers the Government of Canada-funded i.d.e.a. Fund in partnership with Boundless Accelerator.

2024 Program Results:

• 12 companies supported in Cohort 3
• $240,000 in total non-repayable funding distributed
• Focus on clean-tech and circular economy innovation
• Partnership with five Regional Innovation Centres across southern Ontario

Eligible Business Types:

• Clean technology innovators
• Circular economy businesses
• Green product/service developers
• Environmental technology companies
• Sustainable business models

What You Get:

• $20,000 non-repayable seed funding
• Up to 30 hours of professional mentorship
• Access to Innovate Niagara's network of advisors and experts
• Connection to six Regional Innovation Centres across southern Ontario
• Strategic planning and market validation support

"It's about making sure RICs have the right toolkit to enable entrepreneurs to reach the next level by combining the right resources, mentors, and highly driven entrepreneurs."

— Chris Janzen, Director of Client Services at Innovate Niagara

Other Grant Programs

Rural Ontario Development (ROD) Grant

The ROD Grant helps eligible brick-and-mortar businesses in rural-designated areas modernize operations and improve competitiveness. This program is particularly valuable for businesses in communities like Port Colborne, Welland, Grimsby, Lincoln, Pelham, Wainfleet, West Lincoln, Fort Erie, Thorold, and Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Eligible Uses:

• Equipment upgrades and modernization
• Technology implementation
• Facility improvements
• Accessibility enhancements
• Energy efficiency upgrades

Southwestern Ontario Development Fund

This provincial program provides grants for significant business development projects that create jobs and economic growth in the region.

RAISE Program: Supporting Diverse Entrepreneurs

RAISE addresses systemic barriers facing diverse entrepreneurs by providing:

• Access to capital through grants and loans
• Specialized training programs designed for diverse business owners
• One-on-one coaching from culturally competent advisors
• Networking events connecting diverse entrepreneurs
• Resource library with culturally relevant business tools

Niagara Economic Development: Strategic Growth Partner

Niagara Economic Development (NED) works collaboratively with all 12 municipalities to provide comprehensive economic development services to businesses.

Core Services

Site Selection Assistance

• Property inventory access
• Demographic and market analysis
• Infrastructure assessment
• Zoning and planning guidance
• Connection to municipal partners

Workforce Development Support

• Labor market information
• Connection to training programs
• Immigration support programs
• Talent attraction strategies

Government Assistance Navigation

• Federal funding program guidance
• Provincial incentive program access
• Municipal grant applications
• Tax incentive programs

Foreign Trade Zone Facilitation

• Niagara Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) Point support
• Duty and tariff exemption guidance
• Import/export assistance
• Cross-border business development

Community Improvement Plans: Renovation and Development Incentives

Niagara's municipalities offer generous Community Improvement Plans (CIPs) that provide financial incentives for property improvements and business development.

Downtown Community Improvement Plans

Most Niagara municipalities have downtown CIPs offering:

Façade Improvement Grants

• Matching grants for exterior renovations
• Heritage building restoration support
• Signage and storefront upgrades
• Accessibility improvements

Building Rehabilitation Loans and Grants

• Interior renovation financing
• Structural improvement support
• Building code compliance assistance
• Energy efficiency upgrades

Upper Floor Residential Conversion

• Grants for creating residential units above commercial spaces
• Increases downtown density and vitality
• Supports mixed-use development

Brownfield Community Improvement Plans

Available Incentives:

• Environmental site assessment grants
• Remediation cost grants
• Tax increment grants for redeveloped brownfield sites
• Development charge reductions

Benefit: Transforms vacant or underutilized industrial/commercial properties into productive economic assets.

Niagara Gateway Community Improvement Plan

This is one of the most generous business incentive programs in Ontario, offering:

1. Tax Increment Grant (TIG) Program

• 5-10 year grant based on assessment increases
• Applies to development, redevelopment, construction, and rehabilitation projects
• Creates incentive for capital investment in employment lands

2. Municipal Employment Incentive Program (MEIP)

• Planning application fee waivers
• Building permit fee rebates
• Study grants for eligible projects
• Additional municipal-level incentives

Eligible Project Types:

• New construction on employment lands
• Building rehabilitation and adaptive reuse
• Property improvements creating assessment increases
• Job-creating business expansions

Chambers of Commerce: Your Networking Hub

Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce (GNCC)

The GNCC serves as the region's largest business advocacy organization, representing businesses across all 12 municipalities.

Member Benefits:

• Networking events – Monthly mixers, industry-specific meetups, annual gala
• Professional development – Workshops, speaker series, certification programs
• Business advocacy – Representation at municipal, provincial, and federal levels
• Marketing exposure – Member directory, social media features, event sponsorships
• Cost savings – Group insurance rates, business service discounts
• Trade and export resources – International business development support

Annual Signature Events:

• Business Excellence Awards
• Chamber on Tap networking series
• Annual Golf Tournament
• Women in Business Luncheon
• Government Relations Events

Local Chambers

Each municipality also has active chamber organizations serving specific communities:

South Niagara Chamber of Commerce

• Serves Fort Erie, Port Colborne, Wainfleet, and West Lincoln
• Focus on cross-border business development
• Tourism industry support

Thorold Chamber of Commerce

• Manufacturing sector focus
• Small business advocacy
• Community event support

Niagara-on-the-Lake Chamber of Commerce

• Tourism and hospitality specialization
• Heritage business support
• Wine country promotion

Pelham Chamber of Commerce

• Agricultural business support
• Rural economic development
• Community building initiatives

How to Support Niagara Businesses Without Spending Money

Supporting local businesses doesn't always require making purchases. Here are powerful, cost-free ways to make a significant impact:

1. Write Google Reviews

How to Maximize Impact:

• Be specific about what you appreciated
• Include relevant keywords (e.g., "best custom signs in Niagara")
• Add photos of products or your experience
• Review multiple businesses you frequent

Example: "Niagara Stands Out provided exceptional service for our business signage. Their design team understood our brand perfectly, and the quality of the final product exceeded our expectations. Highly recommend for any Niagara business looking for professional signage solutions!"

2. Social Media Engagement

High-Value Actions:

• Follow business social media accounts
• Like and comment on posts
• Share posts to your story or feed
• Tag businesses in relevant posts
• Use business-specific hashtags (#LoveLocalNiagara, #ShopNiagara)
• Create user-generated content featuring local businesses

3. Word-of-Mouth Recommendations

Strategic Approach:

• Recommend specific businesses in relevant conversations
• Join local Facebook groups and answer business recommendation requests
• Connect businesses with potential customers in your network
• Share business information with newcomers to the region

4. Subscribe to Newsletters

Why It Matters: Email subscribers are a business's most valuable audience—they've given permission to communicate directly.

Additional Benefits:

• Be first to know about sales and promotions
• Access subscriber-exclusive offers
• Stay informed about new products and services
• Receive valuable local business news and tips

5. Attend Free Community Events

Impact: Your presence increases event success metrics, encouraging future investment in community engagement.

Types of Events:

• Grand openings and ribbon cuttings
• Open houses and customer appreciation events
• Chamber of Commerce networking mixers
• Business showcase events
• Downtown festivals and markets

Buy Local Directories and Resources

Finding local businesses has never been easier thanks to comprehensive online directories maintained by municipalities and business associations.

Municipal Buy Local Directories

Niagara Region Business Directory

The comprehensive regional directory at niagaracanada.com includes businesses across all municipalities, searchable by industry, location, and services.

Local Markets and Shopping Events

St. Catharines Farmers Market

Location: 91 King Street, St. Catharines
Schedule: Year-round, multiple days weekly
Features: Fresh produce, artisan products, prepared foods, crafts

One of Ontario's largest and oldest farmers markets, offering direct connection between consumers and local producers, farmers, and artisans.

Seasonal Markets and Events

Holiday Markets (November-December)

• St. Catharines Christmas Market
• Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights Artisan Market
• Port Colborne Canal Days (Summer)
• Grimsby Peach Festival (August)
• Pelham Summerfest

Shop Local Campaigns

• Small Business Saturday (post-Thanksgiving)
• Independent Retailer Month (July)
• Holiday Shop Local initiatives
• Summer market series across municipalities

Business Networking and Learning Opportunities

Niagara AI P2P Group Series

As artificial intelligence transforms business operations, staying current with AI applications is critical for competitive advantage. The Niagara AI Peer-to-Peer Group offers:

• Practical AI implementation workshops
• Industry-specific use case discussions
• Tool demonstrations and hands-on training
• Peer learning and problem-solving
• Connection to AI service providers

Relevant for: All businesses looking to leverage AI for efficiency, customer service, marketing, and operations.

Chamber on Tap

Informal networking series hosted by chambers across Niagara:

• Relaxed atmosphere in local restaurants and breweries
• No formal presentations—pure networking
• Cross-industry connections
• Monthly recurring events
• Accessible entry point for new business owners

Women in Business Networks

Multiple organizations support women entrepreneurs across Niagara:

• Women's Enterprise Skills Training (WEST) of Windsor Inc. serves southwestern Ontario
• Women in Business networking groups through local chambers
• Mentorship programs connecting established and emerging women entrepreneurs
• Annual Women in Business conferences and luncheons

Industry-Specific Associations

Tourism and Hospitality

• Tourism Partnership of Niagara
• Niagara Falls Tourism
• Wine Country Ontario

Manufacturing

• Niagara Industrial Association
• Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) Niagara Chapter

Technology and Innovation

• Innovate Niagara membership community
• Niagara Tech Community meetups

Agriculture

• Niagara Peninsula Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association
• Niagara-on-the-Lake Chamber Grape Growers Section

Why Choose Local Print and Signage Services

When you need business signage, vehicle wraps, promotional materials, or custom printing, choosing a local provider like Niagara Stands Out offers distinct advantages:

Local Expertise and Understanding

Regional Market Knowledge: Local providers understand Niagara's business landscape, competitive environment, and customer preferences. They know what works in this market because they're part of it.

Municipal Compliance: Navigating sign bylaws and permit requirements varies significantly across Niagara's 12 municipalities. Local experts know these regulations inside-out, ensuring your signage meets all requirements without delays.

Faster Turnaround: No shipping delays or coordination with distant suppliers. Local means quicker project completion and immediate support if adjustments are needed.

Relationship and Accountability

Face-to-Face Consultation: Meet in person to discuss your vision, review materials, and make decisions collaboratively.

Ongoing Support: When you need updates, repairs, or additional materials, your local provider is just a call away—no navigating corporate phone trees or offshore support centers.

Community Reputation: Local businesses stake their reputation on every project. Your success is their success, creating alignment of interests you won't find with distant suppliers.

Economic Multiplier

Jobs for Neighbors: Your spending employs local designers, installers, customer service staff, and administrative team members.

Regional Supply Chain: Local print shops source from regional suppliers when possible, multiplying the economic benefit.

Tax Base Support: Profitable local businesses contribute to municipal tax revenues that fund infrastructure, parks, emergency services, and community programs.

Specialized Niagara Services

Niagara Stands Out specializes in helping Niagara businesses stand out through:

• Custom Business Signage – Storefront signs, channel letters, monument signs, pylon signs
• Vehicle Wraps and Graphics – Full wraps, partial wraps, fleet branding, vehicle lettering
• Trade Show and Event Materials – Banner stands, table covers, promotional displays
• Wayfinding and Directional Signage – Interior signs, exterior directionals, parking signs
• Window Graphics and Wraps – Privacy films, promotional window displays, frosted graphics
• Real Estate Signs – For sale signs, development signs, commercial property signage
• Construction Site Signs – Project signs, safety signage, development boards

Service Area: Proudly serving all of Niagara Region including St. Catharines, Niagara Falls, Welland, Port Colborne, Thorold, Fort Erie, Grimsby, Lincoln, Pelham, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Wainfleet, and West Lincoln.

Leveraging Federal Economic Development Programs

Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario)

FedDev Ontario provides funding and support for businesses and economic development initiatives across southern Ontario, including Niagara.

Recent Niagara Investments:

Tourism Growth Program

• $540,000 investment in three Niagara tourism businesses (2024)
• Byland Estate Winery: $90,000 for visitor experience enhancements
• Flat Rock Cellars: $200,000 for outdoor hospitality area
• City of Port Colborne: $250,000 for tourism infrastructure

Regional Innovation Centres Support

• Multi-million dollar investments in Innovate Niagara
• i.d.e.a. Fund program delivery ($5.2 million to Boundless Accelerator network including Niagara)
• Clean technology and innovation ecosystem development

How to Access: Work with Niagara Economic Development or Innovate Niagara to identify eligible programs and navigate application processes.

Canada Small Business Financing Program

This federal program makes it easier for small businesses to secure financing by guaranteeing a portion of loans from financial institutions, reducing lender risk and improving approval rates.

Success Stories: Niagara Businesses Making an Impact

Innovate Niagara i.d.e.a. Fund Recipients

Maeve and Shea (Fashion/Circular Economy)

• Developed circular fashion model reducing textile waste
• Received $20,000 seed funding and mentorship
• Expanded sustainable production capabilities
• Created local employment in Niagara's fashion sector

MERQ (Clean Technology)

• Innovative environmental technology solution
• Leveraged i.d.e.a. Fund to commercialize product
• Scaled operations with support from Innovate Niagara's network
• Contributing to Canada's clean-tech ecosystem

Starter Company Plus Alumni

Over 100 new businesses in St. Catharines alone have launched successfully through Starter Company Plus since 2013, spanning industries including:

• Technology and software development
• Professional services
• Retail and e-commerce
• Food and beverage
• Creative industries
• Health and wellness

These businesses have collectively created hundreds of jobs and contribute millions to Niagara's economy annually.

Taking Action: Your Next Steps

Whether you're starting a business, expanding operations, or looking to support Niagara's economy, here's your action plan:

For Entrepreneurs and Business Owners

Immediate Actions:

1. Contact your local Small Business Enterprise Centre
   • Niagara Falls: 905-356-7521 ext. 5130
   • St. Catharines: enterprisecentre@stcatharines.ca
2. Explore funding opportunities
   • Review Starter Company Plus eligibility
   • Assess qualification for i.d.e.a. Fund (clean-tech businesses)
   • Research municipal CIP programs for your location
   • Connect with Niagara Economic Development for major projects
3. Join relevant chambers and associations
   • Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce
   • Local municipal chambers
   • Industry-specific associations
4. Attend networking events
   • Chamber on Tap series
   • Innovate Niagara workshops
   • Industry conferences and trade shows
5. Connect with Niagara Stands Out for signage and promotional materials
   • Professional storefront signage to attract customers
   • Vehicle wraps for mobile marketing
   • Trade show materials for events and expos
   • Full branding and design services

For Community Members

Support Local Actions:

1. Shop local first – Check municipal directories before defaulting to chains or online retailers
2. Write reviews – Leave Google reviews for businesses you appreciate
3. Engage on social media – Follow, like, share, and tag Niagara businesses
4. Recommend businesses – Share your positive experiences with friends, family, and online
5. Attend local events – Support farmers markets, festivals, and business events
6. Subscribe to newsletters – Stay connected with your favorite local businesses
7. Use hashtags – #LoveLocalNiagara, #ShopNiagara, #NiagaraBusiness when posting about local businesses

Key Contact Directory

Small Business Enterprise Centres

• Niagara Falls SBEC: 905-356-7521 ext. 5130
• St. Catharines Enterprise Centre: enterprisecentre@stcatharines.ca

Economic Development

• Niagara Economic Development: 905-980-6000 | info@niagaracanada.com
• Website: niagaracanada.com

Innovation Support

• Innovate Niagara: 102-386 St. Paul Street, St. Catharines
• Website: innovateniagara.com

Business Advocacy

• Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce: gncc.ca

Local Print and Signage

• Niagara Stands Out: niagarastandsout.ca
• Services: Custom signage, vehicle wraps, promotional materials, trade show displays

Additional Resources

Online Directories

• Regional Business Directory: niagaracanada.com
• Municipal Directories: See "Buy Local Directories" section above

Government Resources

• Canada Business Network: canada.ca/business
• Ontario Business Registry: ontario.ca/business
• BizPal (Permit/License Tool): Available through SBECs

Educational Resources

• Small Business Starter Kit: Available through St. Catharines Enterprise Centre
• Innovate Niagara Workshops: innovateniagara.com/events
• SBEC Training Calendar: Check local SBEC websites

Complete Niagara Municipal Business Resources

All 12 Niagara municipalities offer business support services, economic development offices, and local resources. Contact your municipal government for local programs and support:

Government of Ontario Business Resources

• Ontario Business Registry - Register your business
• Ontario Business Grants - Provincial funding programs
• Start a Business in Ontario - Complete startup guide
• Community Improvement Plans - Municipal incentive programs

Government of Canada Business Resources

• Canada Business Network - Federal business portal
• FedDev Ontario - Southern Ontario economic development
• Government Grants Database - Search all federal grants
• CRA Business Tax - Tax obligations and registration
• Canada Small Business Financing - Loan guarantee program

Frequently Asked Questions About Niagara Business Support

Conclusion: Building Niagara's Economic Future Together

Supporting Niagara businesses creates a virtuous cycle of prosperity. When local businesses thrive, they employ more neighbors, invest in better facilities, sponsor community events, and contribute to a stronger tax base that funds the services we all value.

The resources outlined in this guide—from Small Business Enterprise Centres and government funding programs to Community Improvement Plans and networking organizations—represent millions of dollars in support available to Niagara entrepreneurs. These aren't just programs; they're investments in our collective future.

Whether you're launching your first venture, scaling an established business, or simply choosing where to spend your money, remember that every decision to support local creates ripple effects throughout our community.

Start your business journey today by contacting your local Small Business Enterprise Centre, or support a local business by visiting Niagara Stands Out for all your signage, printing, and promotional needs.

Together, we're not just supporting businesses—we're building the Niagara we want to live in.

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