BusinessTO Newsletter January 6th, 2025

Have your say on Toronto’s 2026 Budget, Applications are open for the Outside Mural and Street Art Grant Program and more

Have your say on Toronto’s 2026 Budget 

The City of Toronto’s 2026 Budget is building a city that works for you. The Budget Committee will launch its Budget review process on Thursday, January 8, following the consultations held last October. We encourage you to participate by joining Mayor Olivia Chow and Budget Chair Shelley Carroll for Telephone Town Halls on January 14 or 15 or speaking to the Committee in person or virtually on January 20 and 21. You can also attend local Councillor town halls or submit written feedback to Council to ensure your priorities are heard. Learn more. 

Applications are open for the Outside Mural and Street Art Grant Program 

Business associations and community groups with strong business participation in their community neighbourhoods can receive one-time funding up to $7,500 for outside mural and street art projects. Eligible expenses include artist fees, materials, installation and equipment rental. Maintenance of the murals and street art is the responsibility of the applicant. Applications close March 26, at 11:59 p.m. Learn more and apply. 

Applications are closing soon for the Starter Company Plus Grant – Trade Accelerator Stream   

The City of Toronto’s Trade Accelerator Program (TAP), helps small- and medium-sized businesses expand into international markets with confidence. Participants gain expert-led training, personalized mentorship and a tailored export plan to fast-track global growth. Toronto businesses that complete the program also receive a $5,000 microgrant to support their export journey. With over 85 per cent of graduates entering new markets within a year, TAP Toronto is your gateway to international success. Applications close Monday, January 12, at 4:30 p.m. Learn more and apply now. 

Report business barriers with the Red Tape Hotline 

The City of Toronto has extended the deadline for businesses to submit to the Red Tape Hotline. Businesses can share feedback on regulatory challenges such as permitting delays, outdated by-laws or cumbersome municipal processes. This pilot project supports efforts to modernize regulations and streamline services under Toronto’s Economic Action Plan. Submissions are open until Saturday, January 31. Find details. 

Webinars and Events

Maximizing Your Business: How to Manage Your Cash 

Thursday, January 8, from 10 to 11 a.m. – Register (Free) 

T1 General Small Business Tax Literacy 

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

Insurance for Small Business 

Wednesday, January 14, from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. – Register (Free) 

Your Numbers...Your Story 

Thursday, January 15, from 10 to 11 a.m. – Register (Free) 

WSIB: Laws & Regulations for Small Businesses 

Friday, January 16, from 9:30 to 11 a.m. – Register (Free) 

T2 Corporation Tax Literacy 

Wednesday, January 21, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. – Register (Free) 

Getting Money: What Lenders & Investors Want 

Thursday, January 22, from 10 to 11 a.m. – Register (Free)

How to Start a Food Business: A General Overview 

Wednesday, January 28, from 10 to 11 a.m. – Register (Free)

Accounting for Non-Profits: Understanding Financial Statements 

Thursday, January 29, from 10 to 11 a.m. – Register (Free) 

Introduction to the Consumer Protection Act, 2002 for Businesses 

Friday, January 30, from 10 to 11 a.m. – Register (Free)