Local business owners can now apply for funding to boost their online presence.
The Thunder Bay & District Entrepreneur Centre, part of the Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission (CEDC) received a $296,000 grant from the Digital Main Street program for a two-year Digital Service Squad program.
Small business owners will get help with resources to support and digitally transform their business.
“Last year we were able to assist almost 200 individual businesses with the squad services, with this new two-year program we are aiming to assist 500 businesses in the Thunder Bay District,” says Ryan Moore, development officer for small business and manager of the local squad. “Our squad is made up of industry professionals who are waiting to help provide training and resources to businesses that can help them compete in the online space and transform their business.”
Trained specialists will be available to meet with brick-and-mortar small businesses for free to help them complete an online assessment and to introduce them to online training modules designed to build their digital knowledge and skills. This one-on-one DSS assistance includes support for basic website setup, Google Business Profiles, 360° photos, social media presence, and much more. Squad members are also trained to help qualified small businesses with the development of their Digital Transformation Plan and then with the application process for a $2,500 Digital Transformation Grant.
To book a free appointment visit www.digitaltbay.ca