Town of Perth Launches Business Retention & Expansion Initiative

The Town of Perth is launching a new Business Retention & Expansion (BR+E) initiative aimed at supporting local businesses, strengthening relationships with the business community, and helping shape future economic development priorities in Perth.

Business Retention & Expansion (BR+E) is a community-based economic development program used by municipalities across Ontario to gather input directly from local business owners and operators. Information collected will help guide future business supports, partnerships, and economic development planning within Perth. The project is funded in part by the Ontario Ministry of Rural Affairs through the Rural Ontario Development (ROD) Program.

“Our government is proud to support local economic growth through the Rural Ontario Development Program,” said John Jordan, MPP for Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston. “This investment into the Town of Perth’s Business Retention and Expansion initiative will help strengthen relationships with local businesses, identify opportunities for growth and contribute to a vibrant local economy.”

Running through March 2027, the initiative will involve direct outreach to local businesses through consultations and confidential interviews. The goal is to better understand the opportunities, challenges, and needs facing Perth businesses today, while identifying ways the Town and community partners can help support long-term success.

When it comes to economic development and community development, it's so important we have business voices guiding the way," said Cathy McNally "This BR+E project is a pivotal step to bring their ideas and feedback forward to move to long-term planning and success.”

The project is also seeking community volunteers to assist with outreach and interviews. Volunteer may include retired business owners, entrepreneurs, community leaders, or residents ideally with business or customer service experience. Training and project materials will be provided.

Volunteer recruitment and business outreach will begin this summer, followed by consultations through the fall. Findings from the project will help inform future economic development priorities and action plans.

Businesses interested in participating, or residents interested in volunteering, are encouraged to contact Barbara King, Business Retention & Expansion Coordinator, at bking@perth.ca or 613-267-3311 ext. 2226.

For more information regarding the program, visit Engage.Perth.ca/BRE.