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Tariff Support for Businseses in Kawartha Lakes
Helping local businesses navigate global trade changes
Background: How We Got Here
In response to international trade measures introduced by the United States, the Government of Canada implemented a series of countermeasures affecting selected goods and materials imported from the U.S.
These tariffs were designed to protect Canadian industries and level the playing field for domestic producers. However, they have also created challenges for businesses that rely on cross-border trade or U.S.-sourced materials.
For manufacturers, processors, and suppliers in Kawartha Lakes, these changes can influence everything from input costs to export competitiveness. Understanding the evolving trade landscape, and the supports available, can help businesses plan and adapt with confidence.
Stay Informed
Tariff and trade measures evolve frequently. Businesses are encouraged to stay informed through trusted sources:
What's Chaning and What It Means for Local Business
Recent trade actions between Canada and the United States have resulted in new tariffs on a range of products, including metals, machinery, food products, and consumer goods.
For local businesses, this may mean:
- Increased costs for imported materials or components
- Opportunities to work with Canadian-based suppliers
- A need to explore new export markets
- Access to funding and advisory supports to offset costs or retool operations
The complete list of products subject to Canadian countermeasures.
For a detailed timeline of tariff actions and their implications, visit the Ontario Chamber of Commerce: Navigating Tariffs.
Available Supports and Programs
Business Development Canada (BDC)
BDC Pivot to Grow Loan offers $500 million in new lending, providing financing, advice, and loan deferrals to small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) financially impacted by tariffs.
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce - Trade Tracker monitors trade issues and provides updates on tariffs and trade policy developments.
Export Development Canada (EDC)
EDC helps Canadian businesses grow internationally with financing, insurance, and trade expertise. Their tools and insights reduce risk and open doors to new markets. Learn more at EDC’s website.
The EI Work-Sharing Program offers benefits to employees who work reduced hours due to a decline in business activity beyond their employer’s control. Temporary flexibilities are now available.
Farm Credit Canada's (FCC) Trade Disruption Customer Support Program is offering $1 billion in new lending, with access to credit lines of up to $500,000 and the option to defer principal payments for up to 12 months on current loans.
Explore Canadian supply chain options through Canada’s business directories.
Ontario Together Trade Fund (OTTF)
The OTTF provides financial support to help businesses near-term investments so they can serve more interprovincial customers, develop new markets and re-shore critical supply chains in the face of U.S. tariffs.
The Ministry of Economic Development Job Creation and Trade (MEDJCT)
MEDJCT offers programs and resources to help businesses scale locally and globally. Access funding, expert advice, and market expansion opportunities to Grow Your Business.
The Startup Canada Tariff Toolkit is designed to help entrepreneurs and support organizations navigate tariffs, this guide covers regulations, supply chain impacts, risk strategies, and expansion. Updated in real time.
For businesses seeking new markets, the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service provides support in over 160 locations worldwide. With 15 ratified Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) covering 49 countries, Canadian businesses can access 1.5 billion consumers.
The SRF is a federal program designed to support large‑scale transformative projects and strengthen Canada’s industrial resilience in the face of global trade disruptions, supply‑chain volatility and international competition.
Supporting local, Ontario and Canadian products
Supporting local businesses
Kawartha Lakes' towns and villages feature a diverse network of businesses, artisans, and suppliers. Connect with local businesses and vendors.
Supporting Ontario-made products
Showcase and source Ontario-made products to help strengthen local businesses affected by U.S. tariffs. Apply for the Ontario Made Product Series for free.
Supporting Canadian-made products
Made in CA is a valuable resource showcasing Canadian-made products and businesses
Supporting Business Development in Kawartha Lakes
Connect with Lindsey Schoenmakers, Economic Development Officer - Business
Businesses facing tariff-related cost challenges or import/export barriers are encouraged to connect with the Economic Development team for one-on-one guidance. Staff can help assess your business needs, connect you with relevant programs, and identify strategies to strengthen competitiveness in changing markets.
Telephone: 705-324-9411 extension 1197
Toll Free: 1-866-397-6673
Email Lindsey
Contact Us
Kawartha Lakes
P.O. Box 9000, 26 Francis Street
Lindsay, ON, K9V 5R8
Telephone: 705-324-9411
Toll free at 1-888-822-2225
After-hours emergencies: 1-877-885-7337
