PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

September 23, 2021

Digital Service Squad Will Assist Bruce County Businesses with Digital Transformation

Ripley, ON. The Township of Huron-Kinloss, Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula, Town of Saugeen Shores, Municipality of Arran-Elderslie, Municipality of Kincardine, Municipality of Brockton, and Municipality of South Bruce have received a $92,500 grant from Digital Main Street’s Ontario Grants Program (OGP) for a Digital Service Squad (DSS), which will provide trained digital specialists to local small businesses to help them adopt online technologies and digitally transform their sales, marketing and back-office operations. The squad will begin visiting businesses throughout the Bruce County region in the coming weeks.

 "We are thrilled with the return of Digital Main Street and to partner with municipalities throughout Bruce County to offer this program through a regional effort. Businesses that participate will receive excellent support and guidance for their digital marketing and online presence,” said Lauren Eby, Township of Huron-Kinloss Business Development Coordinator.

Renewed government funding of the OGP – including investment from the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade – will provide 3,000 Digital Transformation Grants to qualified brick-and-mortar small businesses as well as Digital Service Squad grants for organizations to provide hands-on assistance to local small businesses. The OGP is administered by the Ontario BIA Association, in partnership with the Toronto Association of BIAs (TABIA).

“Ontario small businesses are the heart of our neighbourhoods and the economic foundation of our communities,” said Nina Tangri, Associate Minister of Small Business and Red Tape Reduction for Ontario. “Our government is committed to being there for them as they reopen. This additional support will give these businesses the digital boost they need to raise their profile and rebuild better than ever.”

The cornerstone of Digital Main Street, these squads consist of trained specialists who meet with brick-and-mortar small businesses at no cost to help them complete an online assessment and introduce them to online training modules to build their knowledge and skills. These experts can also assist businesses with developing their Digital Transformation Plan (DTP) and applying for a one-time $2,500 grant to implement it. This one-on-one DSS assistance also includes support for basic website set-up, Google My Business profiles, 360º photos, social media presence, and much more. The DSS can also provide information on the ShopHERE program, if applicable, to assist with digital storefront set-up and e-commerce. Where COVID-19 restrictions are in place, DSS experts can provide support through phone and video tools such as Zoom.

  - 30 -

ABOUT OBIAA

OBIAA is the network that represents unique and vibrant BIAs across Ontario. The Association supports and advocates on behalf of its members through the building and nurturing of strong relationships and partnerships. OBIAA is a leader in the development and sharing of information, tools, resources and best practices, and is the ONE voice on common issues.