Norfolk County committed to assisting residents and local businesses amid economic uncertainty

As Canada’s economic challenges continue to evolve, Norfolk County is commitment to assisting residents and local businesses to foster a resilient community.  

Following a “Buy Locally Campaign” Motion discussed at yesterday’s Council meeting put forward by Councillor Huffman, residents and local businesses can expect to see enhanced initiatives that encourage and promote local shopping and buying Canadian, as well as resources and tools to understand and adapt to ongoing tariff challenges.   

Resources for businesses 

Businesses, residents, and community stakeholders are invited to visit Norfolk County Economic Development’s Tariff Resource Hub to access information, learn about available tools and provide feedback that will help shape ongoing support measures. The Hub focuses on the following key initiatives: 

Understanding the impact of tariffs: Businesses affected by tariffs are encouraged to visit the Tariff Resource Hub to complete a short survey from the Western Ontario Wardens Caucus. This survey will help Norfolk County Economic Development better understand the challenges that local businesses are facing. 

Strengthening the local economy: While Norfolk County champions the importance of shopping Canadian and supporting local enterprises, it also recognizes the necessity of attracting visitors, investors, and external engagement. The Tariff Resource Hub offers tools to explore opportunities in Norfolk County, and links to online resources to source Ontario-made goods. 

Collaborating across communities: Norfolk County Economic Development is working closely with local Chambers of Commerce, BIAs, Board of Trade, regional partners, and provincial and national organizations. This collaborative network ensures that Norfolk’s business community will remain well-informed about federal relief and incentive programs as they become available.  

Businesses in need of further assistance are invited to reach out directly to Norfolk’s Economic Development team to discuss solutions and access available aid programs as they may become available. 

For more information, to complete the survey, or to speak directly with an Economic Development representative, please visit norfolkbusiness.ca/Tariff or contact the office at norfolkbusiness.ca/Contact. 

Resources for residents 

Norfolk's new resident-focused tariff Response and Resources webpage at norfolkcounty.ca/Tariff provides tools and information to help navigate the current trade challenge. It emphasizes the importance of buying local and Canadian products to support the community.  

Residents can learn more about Norfolk County’s businesses, destinations and attractions using the Visit Norfolk App. Find new places to explore, events, shopping, and more. Find the Visit Norfolk app on the Apple Store or Google Play or access it on a computer with the desktop app at norfolkcounty.ca/VisitNorfolk.   

Norfolk County businesses that provide products, experiences or services to visitors can request to be added to the Visit Norfolk App at norfolkbusiness.ca/add.  

Quotes 

Mayor Amy Martin  

“As Mayor, I have witnessed firsthand the resilience and innovation of our business community. By promoting initiatives like Ontario’s Garden and the Visit Norfolk app, we are not only bolstering our local economy but also ensuring that Norfolk County remains a vibrant destination for both visitors and investors.”  

Al Meneses, Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)  

“This initiative represents our commitment to ensuring that local businesses have the clear, accessible resources they need to navigate these uncertain economic times. The Tariff Resource Hub is a direct channel for us to understand your challenges and deliver tailored support.”  

John Regan, Director, Economic Development  

“Norfolk County is dedicated to creating an environment where local businesses can thrive despite economic headwinds. We encourage any business affected by tariffs to complete the survey on our Tariff Resource Hub and to get in touch with our team if more information is required. Together, we can navigate these challenges, leverage available resources, and continue to build a robust, interconnected local economy.”