THUNDER BAY — A group of local business and civic organizations have partnered up to launch what they’re calling the city’s first “small business solutions summit.”
The one-day event, scheduled for October 22 at the Superior Inn, is slated to include a trade show-type expo, a networking reception and a series of breakaway sessions, roundtables and panels, along with a keynote speaker. It is being led by the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce.
Nancy Milani, the chamber’s director of special events, said it’s the right time to give small business a boost.
“I think it's been trying times out there with tariffs and a lot going on politically,” she told reporters at a press conference on Tuesday announcing the summit.
“It's been an interesting year, and then even after still the recovery of some businesses and COVID — even though that's been five years — I think it's been tough times for business.”
The chamber is working with the city’s Community Economic Development Commission, the Business Development Bank of Canada, the Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund, Northern Ontario Angels, the Northwestern Ontario Innovation Centre, the PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise and Thunder Bay Ventures.
“It's the first of its kind in our community and it's a real testament to the business ecosystem,” Jamie Taylor, the CEO of the Thunder Bay CEDC, said.
“Eight partners coming together to support small business.”
“It's not just what we think is needed in the community,” Taylor continued.
“We did a survey to ensure that it wasn't just an idea that we thought was good, small businesses validated that they really needed this and we're happy that we're able to come together to deliver it together.”
The trade show is intended to feature businesses and organizations that can help small businesses, such as financial institutions, legal services, accounting firms and other similar resources, Milani said.
“It's one-stop shopping for small business owners and entrepreneurs,” she said, adding that the goal is so small business owners can leave with information, contacts or solutions they didn’t have before.
Over 85 per cent of business in the region have fewer than 20 employees, Milani said.
“Small businesses are definitely the backbone of our community, playing a vital role in our economic and social well-being.”
The chamber is accepting applications for sponsors and exhibitors, Milani said.
