Town of Grimsby Launches First Start-Up Showcase to Support Local Entrepreneurs

The Town of Grimsby is inviting entrepreneurs, start-ups, micro-business owners, solopreneurs and aspiring business owners to connect, learn and grow at the inaugural Grimsby Start-Up Showcase on Tuesday, September 22, 2026.

Hosted by the Town of Grimsby and supported by the Grimsby Start-Up Working Group, this free networking and business support event is designed to strengthen Grimsby's entrepreneurial community by connecting participants with local business organizations, funding opportunities, mentorship, and practical resources to help launch, grow, and scale their businesses.

Taking place from 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at the Major Refrigeration Peach King Centre, attendees will have the opportunity to network with fellow entrepreneurs, explore available business supports, and engage directly with organizations that provide expertise in areas such as business planning, financing, marketing, legal considerations, government programs, and innovation.

As part of the registration process, participants are encouraged to complete a short survey that will help shape both the Start-Up Showcase and future business support initiatives in Grimsby.

Behind every successful business is an idea that started small. Whether it's a side hustle, a home-based business, or an idea taking shape in a garage, every entrepreneurial journey begins with a first step. The Grimsby Start-Up Showcase is designed to help local entrepreneurs take that next step with confidence by connecting them to the people, resources, and opportunities that can help their businesses grow.

"The Grimsby Start-Up Showcase is about more than hosting an event – it's about building an entrepreneurial ecosystem that supports innovation, encourages collaboration, and helps local businesses succeed," said Frank Miele, Economic Development Manager for the Town of Grimsby. "Whether you're exploring your first business idea, operating a home-based business, or looking to grow an established venture, we want entrepreneurs to know that support exists right here in Grimsby. This showcase is the first step in creating stronger connections between local business owners and the organizations that can help them thrive."

The Start-Up Showcase is the first initiative of the Grimsby Start-Up Working Group, a pilot project established through the Grimsby Economic Development Advisory Committee (GEDAC). The Working Group brings together representatives from municipal, regional, educational, business and community organizations to help strengthen Grimsby's entrepreneurial landscape through mentorship, collaboration and access to business resources.

"The success of a community depends on the success of its businesses," said Sarah Kim, Chief Administrative Officer for the Town of Grimsby. "Supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses is an investment in Grimsby's future. By bringing together experienced mentors, business support organizations and aspiring entrepreneurs, we're helping create the connections and opportunities that will contribute to a stronger, more resilient local economy."

Event Details:

·       Grimsby Start-Up Showcase

• Date: Tuesday, September 22, 2026
• Time: 7:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
• Location: Major Refrigeration Peach King Centre, Rooms B & C, 162 Livingston Avenue, Grimsby

The Town encourages anyone interested in starting or growing a business to attend.

Registration is free, and advance registration is encouraged to help us plan for the event. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits.

To learn more about the Grimsby Start-Up Showcase, explore the Town's small business support initiatives, and complete the Start-Up Survey, visit: www.letstalkgrimsby.ca/small-business-support

To register for the event, complete the online registration form:
https://eforms.grimsby.ca/Grimsby-Start-Up-Showcase

The Town of Grimsby thanks the members of the Grimsby Start-Up Working Group and its community partners for their leadership and collaboration in bringing this initiative to life.

Media Contact
Communications Specialist
Town of Grimsby
cdavidson@grimsby.ca
905-945-9634