Local Small Business Centre offers support and growth opportunities for entrepreneurs
(Barrie, ON) – Small Business Week is happening from October 19 to 25, 2025, and is a national celebration of local companies and organizations, and their contribution to Canada’s economy. The Small Business Centre for Barrie, Simcoe County, and Orillia empowers entrepreneurs by providing the tools and guidance needed to launch and grow their businesses. Whether you're starting out with a business idea or have a business and are looking to grow, the Centre offers expert support, valuable resources, and strategic connections to help businesses thrive.
As part of Small Business Week, the Small Business Centre is offering the following events:
- Starting Your Business Basics (virtual event)
October 20, 2 to 3 p.m. - AI Search Optimization: How to Make Your Business Discoverable (virtual event)
October 22, 12 to 1 p.m. - The Resilient Workplace: Navigating Change and Future-Proofing Your Business
(the Small Business Centre is a promotional partner for this event, which is led by Barriston Law, HR Performance & Results, and Marquee Benefits Inc.)
October 23, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Sandbox Centre, 24 Maple Avenue, 2nd floor
Note: tickets must be purchased for this event
The Small Business Centre offers free 1:1 consultations, business plan support, and access to valuable resources such as the Guide to Starting a Small Business. Entrepreneurs can also take part in workshops and programs like Starter Company Plus and the Summer Company Program. In partnership with the Barrie Public Library, the Centre hosts free monthly events such as Validating Your Business Idea and Business Plan Basics (Parts 1 and 2). These ongoing sessions provide valuable tools, research resources, and expert guidance throughout the year. For more information about upcoming events and workshops, visit the Small Business Centre’s events page.
You can subscribe to the Small Business Centre newsletter, follow the Centre on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube, and read about local success stories via the Invest Barrie blog.
The Small Business Centre is located inside the Sandbox Centre at 24 Maple Avenue (2nd floor). Learn more at investbarrie.ca/SmallBusinessCentre.
