City of Toronto Resources
In response to the recent challenges faced by businesses, the City of Toronto has established the BusinessTO Support Centre. This center offers valuable information on various resources available to businesses. It provides one-on-one virtual assistance for completing government program applications and offers general business guidance. Additionally, the City has expanded its Digital Main Street program to aid small businesses in website development, e-commerce platform setup, and more.
Funding Resources
For information on potential funding opportunities, check the City of Toronto dedicated funding page for information - Funding for small businesses
Also check the federal government resource that helps create innovation for small businesses. Business benefit's finder
Other places to start
Get in touch with your neighborhood financial institution. We understand that many small businesses already have established relationships with local banks. The financial sector has enhanced their lending capacity, making them an excellent initial point of contact to assist you.
Business Resources
- Responding to United States Economic Policy (City of Toronto)
- Take the Tariff Impact Survey
(City of Toronto) - Business Resources (Canadian Chamber of Commerce)
- Business continuity plan and templates for entrepreneurs (BDC)
- Discover import and export tariffs (Canada Tariff Finder)
- Trade Commissioner Service supports Canadian businesses (Trade Commissioner Service - TCS)
- Apply for the Canadian International Innovation Program (The Canadian International Innovation Program - CIIP)
- Work-Sharing (Employment and Social Development Canada)
- Support for Canadian businesses impacted by uncertainty around U.S. tariffs (Business Development Bank of Canada)
- Prepare your business for U.S. export tariff changes with this essential checklist (Export Development Canada)
- Export Development Canada's Trade Impact Program (Export Development Canada)
- Explore and promote Ontario-made products
(Ontario-made products)
CaféTO Accessibility
CaféTO participants are responsible for adhering to the guidelines to ensure accessibility for patrons and to prevent any hindrance to sidewalk use.
The CaféTO guidebook outlines essential rules for operators, including maintaining clear pedestrian pathways, ensuring cane detectability, and utilizing contrasting materials. The guidebook also provides suggestions to enhance outdoor dining accessibility, covering furniture selection and café layout. Please refer to the relevant section, starting on page 12 of the CaféTO guidebook.
CaféTO is a component of the City's ShowLoveTO initiative, in collaboration with Founding Sponsor American Express and Destination Toronto. It aims to support Toronto businesses, neighborhoods, and residents in their recovery efforts and revitalization, without reference to past challenges.
Stay informed about CaféTO updates and information by subscribing to the BusinessTOnewsletter.
