BusinessTO Newsletter August 12th, 2026

BusinessTO News is a weekly newsletter highlighting opportunities that are available to Toronto businesses such as programs, grants, resources and guidelines. For a full list of City of Toronto resources for businesses visit toronto.ca/BusinessSupport.

Announcements

Reminder about water MTU replacements   

The City’s program to replace all 470,000 water Meter Transmission Units (MTUs) across Toronto is underway. The City’s contractor Neptune Technology Group (Canada) will contact businesses by mail with instructions on how to book your MTU replacement appointment. It’s important for business owners or operators to book an appointment as soon as you are contacted. Learn more about what to expect and when.

Support local at St. Lawrence Market

Soak up summer while supporting local! Enjoy fresh eats, live music and vibrant street vibes as Market Street turns into a pedestrian-friendly hub. From handmade goods to savoury bites, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the season and show love to the city’s local vendors—all in one unforgettable spot. Plan your visit. 

Business Community News

Expand your business at FrancoTech 2026    

 

The Fédération des gens d’affaires francophones de l’Ontario (FGA) is recruiting Ontario-based Francophone businesses for a trade delegation to FrancoTech 2026 to be held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, from November 14 to 16. Franco-Ontarian and bilingual businesses that are export-ready and wishing to explore international development opportunities, particularly in Southeast Asia, are encouraged to apply. This mission represents a strategic opportunity to position your business within a growing economic environment, develop business relationships and gain a deeper understanding of international market dynamics. Registrations close this Friday, August 14. Register your expression of interest.   

Register to attend the Student Entrepreneurship Competition 

Are you passionate about innovation and entrepreneurship? Don’t miss the chance to connect with experts and entrepreneurs from various industries across the GTA at our annual bilingual Entrepreneurship Competition, organized by the Glendon GENIAL Incubator and proudly sponsored by Desjardins Financial Group. This event is a fantastic opportunity to network, share ideas and explore potential collaborations. The event will take place on Thursday September 24, at 5:30 p.m. at the York University Glendon Campus, 2275 Bayview Avenue, York Hall, Centre of Excellence Toronto-A100. Learn more and register now.  

Applications are open for the DELIA Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund 

DELIA is Nventure‘s dedicated Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund, offering financing up to $50,000 to help women-owned and women-operated businesses move forward with confidence. Learn more and apply now. 

Women entrepreneurs can access StrikeUp Canada to explore available  events and resources 

StrikeUP Canada was created to bring women entrepreneurs together from across the country for accessible learning, meaningful connection and practical business support. Explore and learn more. 

Applications are open for the Investment Bootcamp for black tech founders 

The Black Entrepreneurship Alliance is accepting applications for its fully funded, four-month Investment Bootcamp, designed to help Black-led tech founders prepare to raise capital. The program includes one-on-one mentorship, expert-led workshops, growth services, three months of YSpace membership and investor connections through Investor Hours and Demo Day. Open to pre-revenue startups with a validated MVP and post-revenue startups with at least $1,000 in monthly recurring revenue, only 10 ventures will be selected. Applications close Sunday, August 30. Learn more and apply. 

Webinars and Events

Understanding Financial Statements for Small Business Owners

Thursday, August 13, from 10 to 11 a.m. – Register (Free)

Email Marketing for Small Businesses

Tuesday, August 18, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. – Register (Free)

Your Digital Storefront: Growing Your Business Online

Tuesday, August 25, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. – Register (Free)

Service Canada: Free Hiring Platform & Other Supports for Small Businesses

Wednesday, August 26, from 10 to 11 a.m. – Register (Free)

Building the Basics for Small Businesses Online – Scarborough (in person event) 

Monday, August 31, from 9 to 11 a.m. – Register (Free)

Social Media for Your Business

Tuesday, September 1, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. – Register (Free)

Getting Money: What Lenders & Investors Want

Thursday, September 3, from 10 to 11 a.m. – Register (Free) 

T1 General Small Business Tax Literacy 

Friday, September 4, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. – Register (Free)

The Importance of Paid Advertising in the Digital Space

Tuesday, September 8, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. – Register (Free)

How to Safely Build a Food Business in Toronto 

Wednesday, September 9, from 10 to 11 a.m. – Register (Free)

WSIB: Laws & Regulations for Small Businesses 

Thursday, September 10, from 10 to 11 a.m. – Register (Free) 

T2 Corporation Tax Literacy 

Friday, September 4, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. – Register (Free)