FAQ 9: Want to Network with other Entrepreneurs?

Networking with other business people is important, especially for entrepreneurs. Networking can assist you to test your business ideas, identify sources of funding, get introductions to new customers, find local suppliers, and meet other people who share your interests.

Who Can Help?

SCOR EDC Business Development Officer

The first step you should take is to contact our SCOR EDC Business Development Officer. SCOR EDC will be able to help get you started and point you in the right direction. All of our resources are available to you. Just contact us at: SCOR EDC Economic Development Office.

Chambers of Commerce

Local Chambers of Commerce in SCOR EDC can help you to connect and network with other local business people and entrepreneurs in your area. C of C’s often host seminars and social functions with their members to allow for discourse and discussion. You never know what tools of the trade you may learn from your neighbour! Contact the Chamber of Commerce closest to you to learn how they may be of assistance to you and your business:

• Brant: Brant/Brantford Regional, Paris and District

• Elgin: Aylmer and Area

• Middlesex: Strathroy and District

• Norfolk: Simcoe and District, Port Dover Board of Trade, Long Point Country, Delhi, Waterford

• Oxford: Woodstock, Tillsonburg, Ingersoll, Norwich

Business Associations and Business Improvement Areas

Business Associations (BAs) and Business Improvement Areas (BIAs) allow local business people and property owners to join together and, with the support of the municipality, to organize, finance and carry out physical improvement and promote economic development in their district. This could help your business, particularly if it is in the service and/or retail sector. They also provide a great opportunity for networking! Please contact any of the BAs or BIAs in SCOR EDC listed below if you are interested in finding out about networking with their memberships:

• Brant:Paris Ontario BIA

• Elgin: Port Stanley BIA

• Middlesex: Strathroy BA

• Norfolk: Downtown Simcoe BIA, Delhi BIA

• Oxford: Destination Downtown Woodstock, Tillsonburg BIA, Ingersoll BIA, Norwich BIA

Other Sources of Networking Information

Canada Business Ontario, the Ontario Federation of Agriculture and the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters-Ontario also have information on networking opportunities. To explore what they have available, visit:

• Canada Business Ontario – Business Support Organizations – Networking and Mentorship

• Ontario Federation of Agriculture

• Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters – Ontario