2026 Kawartha Lakes Business Count launches in May

Kawartha Lakes – Kawartha Lakes has launched the 2026 Business Count survey, in collaboration with local Chambers of Commerce and the Lindsay Downtown BIA.

This summer, teams of Business Count surveyors will be visiting businesses in downtowns and employment areas across Kawartha Lakes.

"The Business Count survey is an opportunity to connect with the local business community," says Rebecca Mustard, Manager of Economic Development at Kawartha Lakes. "Throughout the summer, our team, along with our partner organizations, will engage directly with businesses and respond to questions and gather data. At the end of the season, the data collected will be reviewed to identify trends and patterns. The Insight Report will be produced to give a 2026 snapshot of the local economy."

The Kawartha Lakes Business Count is a collaborative initiative that supports local economic development. The survey gives a snapshot of the Kawartha Lakes business community and employment properties. The findings help to better understand the local economy, and inform policies and programs that support economic development. The Business Count project was launched in 2021, when the survey reached 262 businesses. It has grown substantially and included over 1,000 businesses in 2025.

The project is led by the City of Kawartha Lakes, in partnership with the Bobcaygeon & Area Chamber of Commerce, Coboconk, Norland & Area Chamber of Commerce, Fenelon Falls & District Chamber of Commerce, Lindsay & District Chamber of Commerce, and the Lindsay Downtown BIA (LDBIA).

Businesses are encouraged to take part in the survey when teams arrive at their location. The survey will also be available online.

A copy of the 2025 Business Count Insight Report can be found on our website: www.kawarthalakes.ca/businesscount

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