The Brantford-Brant Business Resource Enterprise Centre (BRC) in partnership with the Downtown Brantford Business Improvement Association (DBBIA) has received a $72,500 grant from Digital Main Street to implement a Digital Service Squad to help business owners improve their digital presence through the adoption of digital tools and processes.
“Small businesses are the largest employers in our economy and their success is all of Ontario’s success,” said Will Bouma, MPP for Brantford-Brant. “I will always advocate for helping small businesses utilize technology to work smarter as they already work hard making Ontario the powerhouse of Canada’s future prosperity.”
Digital Service Squads are fundamental to Digital Main Street’s design and success, with trained specialists who meet with small businesses, at no cost, to help them improve their online presence. The squads assist businesses with a number of activities including developing a Google My Business profile, enhancing their social media presence and providing support for basic website, and e-commerce set-up. Squads will also assist qualified small businesses through the application process for a $2,500 Digital Transformation Grant, which includes an online assessment, online training modules, and the development of a Digital Transformation Plan (DTP).
“Small businesses are innovative and entrepreneurial, but often lack the resources to respond to change, be resilient, yet flexible,” said Kay Matthews, Executive Director, Ontario Business Improvement Area Association (OBIAA). “OBIAA is delighted to work once again alongside the Digital Main Street team and is thrilled to support the City of Brantford’s squad. The Digital Main Street program’s resources, grants, training, and Digital Service Squad assistance provide the means for more small businesses in communities across the City of Brantford to adopt innovative ways, create new revenue streams, expand their markets, and face the future with optimism and confidence.”
Businesses that are interested in participating in the free Digital Main Street program or individuals who would like to learn more about joining the Digital Service Squad can contact the Brantford-Brant Business Resource Centre at brc@brantford.ca or 519-756-4269.
