In the fast-paced digital age, adapting to new technologies has become crucial for the growth and sustainability of small businesses. To support local enterprises in Ontario on their journey towards digital transformation, the Digital Transformation Grant (DTG) program has been initiated. This program is designed to provide training, advisory support, and grants to brick-and-mortar small businesses, empowering them to enhance their capabilities through digital innovation.
What is the Digital Transformation Grant (DTG)?
The Digital Transformation Grant program is a strategic initiative aimed at assisting small businesses in Ontario with the adoption of transformative technologies. It equips them with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in an increasingly digital landscape. Administered by the Ontario BIA Association (OBIAA), this program offers invaluable resources and financial assistance to eligible businesses.
Digital Transformation Grant Program Highlights:
The DTG program is focused on providing qualified brick-and-mortar small businesses with a comprehensive digital transformation package, which includes:
- Digital Assessment: Businesses receive a thorough digital assessment to identify opportunities for improvement and growth.
- Online Training: Access to online training modules and resources to enhance digital skills and knowledge.
- $2,500 Grant: Eligible businesses will be granted $2,500 to implement their digital transformation plan, helping to offset costs associated with technology adoption and integration.
Key Program Details
The DTG program is now open for applications, with submissions being accepted until September 30th, 2023. To qualify for this grant, businesses must meet specific criteria:
1. Business Establishment:
- Must have a permanent ‘brick-and-mortar’ establishment in Ontario.
- Employ 1-50 employees.
- Not be a home-based business.
- Pay commercial property tax (commercially assessed), either directly or through commercial rent.
- Be a registered business in Ontario and/or incorporated.
- Be open for business and operational at the time of application (not a start-up).
- Be open to the general public for walk-in and onsite purchases of goods and services (excluding wholesalers or manufacturers).
- Not supply digital services to other businesses (e.g., website design/development, SEO, programming).
- Not be a franchise, including individually owned and operated franchises.
- Not be a not-for-profit/charitable organization.
- Not rent office space on a temporary basis (month-to-month).
- Not operate in a shared workspace such as a hot desk or dedicated desk.
- Not be a purely online business.
2. Ownership:
- The business must be owned by an Ontario resident operating a business in Ontario.
- The owner must be an individual aged 18 years or older at the time of application.
- The owner must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
3. Completion of Digital Transformation for Main Street Program:
- Businesses must have successfully completed the Digital Transformation for Main Street program, which includes:
- The Digital Main Street Assessment.
- Passing the eligibility quiz.
- Participation in online training.
- Development of a Digital Transformation Plan.
Please note that OBIAA reserves the right to determine eligibility on a case-by-case basis.
Additional Support Available
If you need assistance with applying for this digital grant, our media partner, Caiden Media, is here to provide expert guidance and support. They have a wealth of experience in helping businesses navigate the grant application process and can assist you in every step of the way, from application to approval.
How to Apply
If your business meets the eligibility criteria outlined above, we encourage you to take advantage of this fantastic opportunity. Apply for the Digital Transformation Grant program before the September 30th, 2023 deadline to unlock a world of possibilities for your business.
Stay tuned for success stories and updates from businesses in East Gwillimbury that have harnessed the power of digital transformation to propel their enterprises forward. Your journey to a brighter digital future begins here!
For further information, to initiate your application, or to receive guidance from Caiden Media, please get in touch with them at (416) 546-1086.
