FINANCING FOR SMALL BUSINESS IN THE COUNTY OF SIMCOE ONTARIO
Whether you're based in Barrie, Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Haliburton, Kawartha Lakes, Muskoka, New Tecumseth, Orillia, Oro-Medonte, Ramara, or Severn — if your business operates in or around Simcoe County, there are a number of financial resources available to help you grow. From local grants to regional loans and credit lines, we’re here to help you understand what’s out there and how to apply.
​
​
​
1. Business Lines of Credit from local lending Institutions in the County of Simcoe
​
Lines of credit offer flexible funding for managing cash flow, purchasing inventory, financing receivables, or dealing with seasonal shifts. Several regionals banks and credit unions offer small business friendly solutions:
​
Locations: 16-295 Wellington Street Bracebridge, Ontario
110 N Kinton Avenue, Huntsville, Ontario
​
Meridian Central & Northern Ontario Business Banking Centre
592 Yonge Street Barrie, Ontario
​** Many of our clients deal with the Meridian in Orillia, Ontario and rave about their small business division
​
274 Hurst Drive Barrie, Ontario
​
​
2. Local Small Business Loans from Community Futures-
(CFDC Grant) ​
​Often with lower barriers to entry and more support than traditional banks. Ideal for working capital, equipment purchases, or expansion plans.
​
Orillia Area CDC If you are located in Kawartha Lakes, Orillia, Oro-Medonte, Ramara, Severn, Ontario you may be able to apply for up to $300,000 through this investment program. They also offer business services like workshops for business, employment assistance programs/grants - apply online
​​
​Bank devoted exclusively to Canadian entrepreneurs - Fast easy online application
​​
​
​
​​
​
​​
​
​
3. Angel Investors and Venture Capital
​
For businesses looking for more than just a loan, angel investors and venture capitalists can provide substantial funds in exchange for equity. This option is ideal for high-growth startups but may require giving up some control.
​
​​
​
​
4. Essential Tools for Finding Support
​
Use these government-backed platforms to find the most relevant grants and programs for your business:
​
Canada Business App - Grant, funding and support alerts
Business Benefits Finder - Find programs and services to help grow your business
​​
​
​
5. Crowdfunding
​
Crowdfunding platforms allow business owners to present their ideas to the public and raise money through small contributions from many people. It's also a great way to validate product demand before a full launch.
​
​​
​
​
6. Local Resources in Simcoe County
​
Simcoe County offers strong support for entrepreneurs through local offices, funding programs, and networking opportunities.
​
Simcoe County Economic Development Office (EDO)
The EDO provides information on grants, workshops, and business planning support.
1110 Highway 26, Midhurst, ON L9X 1N6
​
Community Futures Development Corporations (CFDCs)
These local CFDCs offer loans, mentorship, and startup support:
​
1. North Simcoe CFDC
105 Fourth St, Unit B, Midland, ON L4R 4K6
​
2. Nottawasaga Futures
39 Victoria St E, Alliston, on L9R 1V5
​
3. Orillia Area CDC
22 Peter St S, Orillia, ON L3V 7A3
​
Local Chambers of Commerce and Networking Events
Joining your local Chamber of Commerce is a powerful way to connect with funders, partners, and customers:
​
Greater Barrie Chamber of Commerce
​
Orillia & Distrrict Chamber of Commerce
​
Alliston & District Chamber of Commerce
​
These organizations host workshops, pitch events, and networking mixers to help you get in front of the right people.
​​
​
​
7. Federal and Provincial Grants and Supports
​
Small businesses in Ontario have access to a wide array of financial supports beyond local community programs. These federal and provincial initiatives can provide funding, tax credits, and other assistance to help your business grow. The Canada Business App can notify you when new grants and resources are available, and the Business Benefits Finder can help you find funding programs that match your specific business needs.
​
Final Tips for Business Owners
​
Keep your financials in order - Clean, current bookkeeping helps you qualify faster for funding
Apply early - Some grant and loan programs fill up fast
Layer your funding - You can combine a grant with a line of credit and a CFDC loan, for example.
​
Need Help Navigating These Options?
​
We specialize in helping small business owners manage their finances and get application-ready for loans, grants, and credit lines. We're here to support you with expert bookkeeping and local insights. Call us today, and let's take the next step to your financial success.