This past y
ear has been an unprecedented year for the small business community, for the Community Futures South Georgian Bay and for the local economy. The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on our local small businesses and on our communities. The staff and volunteers quickly responded to the crisis to distribute Regional Relief and Recovery Funds (RRRF), address inquiries and providing guidance, work with ecosystem partners to deliver resources and education, and offer support to local entrepreneurs.
This year the CF South Georgian Bay (previously the Centre For Business) celebrates 35 years in operation and it has been a record-breaking year. The organization disbursed a total of $3.398M funds to businesses in the area: $1.37M in loans for business start-up and expansion, and $2.028M in loans as part of the RRRF program. In addition, we responded to over 2400 inquiries and provided close to 360 business coaching sessions. We continue to work on community economic development project that positively impact small businesses, and strengthen local communities and the entrepreneurship ecosystem.
Our rural small businesses have proven to be resilient, resourceful, adaptive and creative. As we look toward to the coming year and all that it brings, we look forward to continuing to support you on your journey. We wish you ongoing success with your business venture and remind you that we are here to help every step of the way.
Click here to view the entire annual report: CF SGB ANNUAL REPORT 2021