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)

The Ontario Business Improvement Area Association (OBIAA) is a network representing and supporting BIAs across Ontario. They encourage and guide BIAs to increase their effectiveness, contribution to the economic, cultural and social well-being of communities. The OBIAA is a leader in the development and sharing of information, tools, training, resources and best practices. Click the button below to read the newsletter.

The Hillcrest Village BIA recognizes that the events of July 11, 2026 have had a profound impact on our business community, residents, employees, and visitors. ​ If you, a member of your team, or someone you know has been affected by this incident, support is available through the City of Toronto's Violence Intervention & Support Unit (VISU). VISU works alongside community organizations, the Toronto Police Service, and local partners to provide immediate support, connect individuals with resources, and assist communities in their recovery and healing following violent incidents. ​ VISU Community Development Officer Segun Akinsanya📧 Segun.Akinsanya@toronto.ca📞 437-676-9313 ​ To learn more about VISU and the supports available, view the document below: ​ ​ ​ The Hillcrest Village BIA remains committed to supporting our businesses and community as we move forward together.

Please join us for our Virtual Board Meetings on the second Wednesday (unless specified) of every month at 11am. Wednesday, January 14 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82402900476 Wednesday, February 11 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82402900476 Wednesday, March 25 (replacement meeting) https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83015314673 Wednesday, April 8 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82402900476 Wednesday, May 13th https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82402900476 Wednesday, June 10 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82402900476 Wednesday, July 15 ( Special Meeting) https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88308646868 Thursday July 23 ( Special Meeting) https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83079215905 Wednesday, August 12 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82402900476 Wednesday, September 9 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82402900476 Wednesday, October 14 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82402900476 November Annual General Meeting: Tuesday November 12th 7pm Wednesday, December 9 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82402900476 November Annual General Meeting If you are having technical issues, Please call Zariah at 905-460-5775. Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system. Monthly: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/tZYpd-uhrjsuHdIHyiium2Ra3OMHY9PFXbKw/ics?icsToken=DLj8dkd9ynJwk3YoRAAALAAAABLok6zjNb2Gq-HdThtVPB_n7HJfc6SuE_yC0HYj-odQWcJ2jfej8iVYFicxE3UG_hfCnux24tD-k6unUTAwMDAwMQ&meetingMasterEventId=lOzn5fZVSvOCNz5oGVVbcg

Please see the documents below for the Draft Minutes of our previous meeting and the Draft Agenda for our upcoming meeting.

The TTC is inviting local businesses along the Eglinton Avenue corridor to apply for a free vendor space at Line 5 Fest, the official opening celebration of Line 5 Eglinton, on Saturday, August 29, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cedarvale Station. This is a unique opportunity to showcase your business and connect with thousands of residents and transit riders. Applications close August 6, 2026. For details and to apply, please visit ttc.ca/line5fest.

CelebrateTO is a monthly newsletter that highlights upcoming City of Toronto festivals and events, as well as the latest updates on the FIFA World Cup 26™ Toronto. Indigenous Arts Festival at Biidaasige Park Discover traditional and contemporary Indigenous music, dance, theatre, storytelling, film, crafts, and culinary experiences at the annual Indigenous Arts Festival at On Saturday, June 20, at Biidaasige Park, 51 Commissioners St. Supported by the City in partnership with the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and this year’s curator Tkaronto Music Festival, the event brings together artists and community for a day of cultural celebration. Learn more. Step back in time at the 1920s Picnic at Spadina Museum Pack a picnic basket and enjoy an afternoon of 1920s charm with live jazz, vintage fashion and plein air painting on the grounds of Spadina Museum. Enjoy swing dance lessons, pose among the gardens, join the costume parade hosted by the Imperial Court of Toronto and browse a silent auction. Explore the picnic Sunday, June 14 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Advance tickets $18; walk‑up $20, subject to capacity. Find details. Beat the rush on peak ferry travel days to Toronto Island This weekend is the Toronto International Dragon Boat Race at Centre Island. Plan ahead for peak ferry travel and save time by purchasing your tickets online ahead of time or avoid peak periods, typically 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to the Island and 5 to 9 p.m. returning to downtown. Learn more about service and ticket information. Gather for Pride on Market Street Pride returns to St. Lawrence Market this Saturday, June 13 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Enjoy a day filled with music, workshops, food and drink, local queer vendors and live performances, including a headlining performance by Canada’s Drag Race’s BOA. Come dance, create, shop and celebrate on Market Street! Find details. Cultural Hotspot launch celebrates Scarborough’s KGO Join a day of live music, culture and celebrating Scarborough’s Kingston-Galloway/Orton Park community at the Cultural Hotspot launch, June 20 at Scarborough Town Centre. Kick off a season of arts programming with a free family-friendly celebration featuring a panel discussion, live performances by JUNO-winning artists Choclair and Savannah Ré, JUNO nominee Yanchan Produced, and more Scarborough talent. Plus, art, music and community-focused activities. Learn more. Toronto Video Game Month is officially underway The City is leveling up this June with the return of Toronto Video Game Month, spanning free and low-cost public gaming events, AR/VR experiences, indie game showcases digital art installations and more. Whether you're a casual player, digital artist or just game-curious, there's something for everyone. Join the fun as we celebrate Toronto’s gaming scene like never before. Learn more and explore the full schedule. Celebrate Dad at St. Lawrence Market Looking for the perfect way to celebrate Dad? From unique gifts to delicious ingredients for a brunch or barbeque, St. Lawrence Market has everything to make Father’s Day extra special. Shop local, support small businesses and make this Father’s Day one to remember. Summerlicious returns July 3 to 19 This summer, taste the world in a City! Get together with friends and family to savour each moment and every delectable bite of a three-course prix fixe menu at more than 200 Toronto restaurants. Reservations open Thursday, June 18. Browse restaurants and start planning your must-visit list.

Saturday July 11th: 11AM - 9:30PM Sunday July 12th: 11AM - 8:30PM Hillcrest Village BIA has a contract with The Canadian Salsa Festivals Group. The Chair of the BIA Board of Management has a few special instructions and points to share with our members to be ready for the Festival. During the Salsa Festival all BIA Businesses may conduct your usual business on the sidewalk, as long as it is the same business. This particularly includes CafeTO patio owner/operators. All non-related day-to-day business activities are prohibited without express permission from the Organizer. No sublets of your space are allowed! You may be closed if this occurs. Restaurants are prohibited from acting as Beer Tents and having amplified music in the festival footprint.(No outside speakers or inside music is allowed or so loud that it can be heard outside.) Food Vendors who intend to sell food outside, must submit the TPH form to Toronto Public Health prior to the Festival. * Link will be available soon.* Canadian Salsa Festivals (TLN Media Group) has exclusive control over the public spaces and can select where the food trucks can park. (except where there are CafeTO patios) City of Toronto Special Occasion Permits (SOP) for daily use and Temporary Liquor Licence Extension of Premises (TEP) Permits are available on their website.https://www.toronto.ca/services-payments/permits-licences-bylaws/ licence-to-serve-alcohol/ Only On-Line applications are available. Garbage: Only Organic Waste is picked up on Saturday July 11th. Porta Potties: Minimum of 40 Ontario Liquor Laws/Food Handling Procedures must be followed. Barricades: BIA will supply, free of charge. Delivery Sat. before 9:00AM to your location.Pick up, after the festival is over Sunday, 8:30pm. Please stack at the curb for pick-up when the Festival ends. Police, Security and TLN Volunteers: will be on site. Call 911 or 311 in case of Emergency. BIA Coordinator: Elaine Smith #437-452-0234 *elaine.biahillcrest@gmail.com BIA Chair: Dr. H.Hannah #416-654-0242 stclairvets@bellnet.ca

In this issue: Mobilizing the Creator Community Ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026™; FIFA World Cup 26™ Briefing Recording and Resources Now Available; Inside the Buyer Meetings at Rendez-vous Canada, and more. Mobilizing the Creator Community Ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026™ Ahead of FIFA World Cup™, Destination Toronto and Toronto Travel Massive co-hosted Game On, Toronto at The Well, convening 40 local creators to explore how Toronto storytellers can shape perceptions, spotlight businesses creating unique experiences, and inspire visitors to experience more of the city. FIFA World Cup 26™ Briefing Recording and Resources Now Available Last week, Destination Toronto hosted its final virtual briefing with representatives from Toronto’s FIFA Secretariat, the City of Toronto, TTC, Metrolinx and Toronto Police Services. The briefing covered Toronto’s Host City plans, including updates on transportation, safety, citywide operations, participation opportunities, and resources to support business and community preparedness. FIFA has also released a Know Before You Go guide for Toronto Stadium that includes info on the bag policy, ticketing, wayfinding and more. International fans will need to present a valid passport if consuming alcohol on site. Inside the Buyer Meetings at Rendez-vous Canada A record number of international travel buyers and Canadian tourism sellers gathered in Toronto last week for Rendez-vous Canada (RVC), allowing buyers to experience the city firsthand. Read our RVC recap for some of the key opportunities, trends, and market insights emerging from the event. Building Future Business at IMEX Frankfurt At IMEX Frankfurt, the Toronto team completed over 200 global planner meetings including hosting the IAPCO Destination Partner Breakfast, generating new leads and future business opportunities for the city. Toronto’s immersive MirrorDome activation attracted strong engagement in a high-traffic area of the conference show floor, which saw 13,000 attendees and more than 4,500 buyers from 94 countries. Toronto Continues to Build International Momentum Destination Toronto continues to raise the city’s profile with international audiences through earned media highlighting Toronto’s culture, experiences, architecture, sports, and major events. Recent coverage includes FIFA-related stories in Parade, Observer, Le Journal de Montreal, and Smart Meetings; Toronto’s growing women’s sports scene in Conde Nast Traveler; and a Frank Gehry feature in Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (F.A.Z.), one of Germany’s leading national newspapers. April 2026 Monthly Accommodation Report The Monthly Accommodation Report outlines hotel and short-term rental market performance. Industry News Pride in Toronto: Celebrating Diversity, Inclusion and Community June is Pride Month, with celebrations all month long. Check out some of the vibrant cultural programming that makes Toronto one of the most welcoming and inclusive cities in the world. Celebrate Indigenous History Month in Toronto June is National Indigenous History Month. Learn about Indigenous culture, history and art in Tkaranto (Toronto) this month and throughout the year. AccessFest Highlights Inclusive Experiences in Toronto It’s National AccessAbility Week and AccessFest is returning on June 6, 2026 at David Pecaut Square, a free public festival focused on celebrating, advocating, and activating for accessibility and inclusion in the city. Destination Toronto207 Queens Quay West, Ste. 405Toronto, Ontario M5J 1A7CanadaDestinationToronto.com Copyright © 2025 Destination Toronto, All Rights Reserved.

New from OBIAA: The BIA Board Elections Toolkit OBIAA's new BIA Board Elections Toolkit is now available - a single reference covering every stage of the process, from what the Municipal Act actually requires to strategic recruitment, running a sound election, and onboarding new directors. It includes sample notices, nomination and candidate profile forms, ballots, a sample letter to the Municipal Clerk, a sample recount procedure, an FAQ section, and a built-in Quick Reference Guide and One-Page Action Checklist for at-a-glance use. We're hosting a webinar to walk you through the toolkit and take your questions. Click below to download the toolkit, register for the webinar, and submit any questions you'd like covered in advance.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Business & Institute Travel Demand Guide The FIFA World Cup 2026 Business & Institution Travel Demand Guide was recently commissioned and published by the City’s FIFA Host City Secretariat to help businesses and institutions, especially those affected by the road closures on match days. This resource is full of information and best practices for businesses to plan, including their delivery schedules and travel plans for staff. EDC has encouraged the primary messaging to be “plan ahead”, “transit first” and “adjust travel times” rather than “work from home”, although it remains on the City’s official Mobility Plan list as a tool for traffic demand management. For other resources like the Community Activation Toolkit and the guide, visit the City’s Host City site: https://torontofwc26.ca/ 2026 Levies and Assessment The 2026 levies and assessment list by BIA is attached. The BIAs levy disbursement schedule depends on their respective auditor’s submission of BIAs 2025 audited financial statement and management letter before the deadline on Friday September 11, 2026, preferably by the end of August. The tentative levy disbursement schedule for BIA Operating Budgets Reports is as follows: 1st disbursement – Report 1 fully issued as of now. Report 2 expected around June 5, 2026. 2nd disbursement – expected around June 30, 2026. 3rd disbursement – expected around September 30, 2026 Dining District Program – Stream 2 The Dining District Program supports Toronto’s diverse culinary and restaurant scene, particularly in areas where outdoor dining is less common. Stream Two supports high-impact projects that enhance outdoor dining experiences and attract visitors to Toronto’s restaurant neighbourhoods. This competitive funding stream prioritizes creative, well-developed proposals that animate public spaces, support restaurants and bars, and generate measurable economic and community impact citywide. Applications are open until June 30 at 4 p.m. Information sessions will be held on May 28 at 2 p.m. and June 11 at 10 a.m. Learn more and apply.