Steering Progress Through Challenges: NCFDC's Economic Contributions to South Simcoe in 2023-2024
From April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024, the Nottawasaga Community Futures Development Corporation (NCFDC) demonstrated its continued commitment to fostering economic growth and resilience in South Simcoe. Through strategic partnerships with municipal, provincial, and federal governments, as well as community organizations, NCFDC implemented impactful initiatives to support local businesses and residents. This work was made possible with funding from the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario).
At NCFDC, we recognize the crucial role that small businesses play in our economy. Throughout 2023-2024, we focused on providing financial support and expert advice to entrepreneurs across South Simcoe, helping them adapt to economic fluctuations and new market realities.
In collaboration with municipal, provincial, and federal governments, as well as community organizations, NCFDC launched strategic projects to create economic opportunities for residents and businesses. The organization implemented 23 highly successful initiatives, creating and maintaining over 180 jobs, conducting over 500 in-depth consulting sessions with more than 220 businesses, and providing $904,000 in loans through our Community Investment Fund to 12 local businesses.
Furthermore, NCFDC organized 18 Business Support Workshops during this period, working closely with community partners such as the County of Simcoe and the municipalities of Bradford West Gwillimbury, Innisfil, and New Tecumseth. Through its ongoing partnership with the PARO Centre for Women's Enterprise, NCFDC remained committed to offering specialized loan programs specifically designed to support women entrepreneurs.
NCFDC also hosted special events like the Film Friendly Vendor Workshop Series, which aimed to help businesses in Simcoe County connect with the film industry to enhance their operations. These events provided valuable opportunities for networking and knowledge sharing.
A significant development during this period was the delivery of the Skills in Action online training portal, developed by the CBDC Restigouche. This platform enhances the skill sets of Canadian workers by offering workplace training and management tools in a digital format.
Additionally, NCFDC conducted a study in partnership with the South Georgian Bay Media Association (SGBMA) on attracting film production to small towns near the Greater Toronto Area. The study highlighted the unique charm and economic incentives these locations offer to filmmakers while emphasizing the significant economic benefits of the film sector for Ontario, particularly its synergy with tourism. The report identified challenges related to film infrastructure and policy development, offering actionable strategies to overcome these barriers. By enhancing the appeal of these towns to filmmakers, the study aims to expand Ontario's film industry footprint, driving local economic growth and fostering sustainable opportunities in small-town communities.
Through these and other initiatives, NCFDC showcased its commitment to supporting local communities, fostering entrepreneurship, and contributing to the development of a resilient and sustainable local economy. Looking ahead to the next fiscal year, the organization remains dedicated to expanding its reach and impact, enhancing its digital infrastructure, and investing in its staff and volunteers to better serve the South Simcoe community.
A shining example of the impact of NCFDC’s support is the success story of Rebecca Bartley, founder of Trooper Pet Veterinary Nursing. Rebecca, a dedicated Veterinary Technician, launched Trooper Pet in 2016 to transform pet care with in-home services that reduce stress for pets and their owners. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Rebecca’s mobile business model proved invaluable, driving a 69% sales increase in 2020 as demand for in-home pet services soared.
With funding from Nottawasaga Futures, Rebecca expanded her team, achieving a 50% growth in sales between 2022 and 2023. Trooper Pet now serves over 2,000 recurring patients across Simcoe County and Muskoka, offering comprehensive services such as medical care, grooming, and specialized therapies like canine massage.
Recognized for her groundbreaking work, Rebecca has received accolades including RVT of the Year and Female Young Entrepreneur of the Year. Trooper Pet continues to thrive, creating jobs and providing compassionate, innovative care that enhances pets’ well-being and owners’ peace of mind. Learn more about Trooper Pet’s inspiring journey on their website and on their Instagram @trooperpet.
2023 – 2024 Annual Report and Performance Results
For more information contact:
Martin Kuzma, CEO Nottawasaga Futures martin@nottawasaga.com