Digital Main Street (DMS) is a program focused on assisting small businesses with their move to online marketing, sales, and back-office operations. The program is built around an online learning platform, structured video training series, grant opportunities, and a Digital Service Squad, a team of trained individuals who help main street businesses with their adoption of digital tools and technology.
See below current opportunities to boost your small business' online presence through Digital Main Street programming and supports.
Note: The Digital Main Street program offerings will conclude on March 31, 2024.
As part of the Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP), the Government of Canada has partnered with Digital Main Street and their ShopHERE powered by Google program to deliver the Grow Your Business Online Grant to small businesses across the country.
Eligible businesses will receive a micro-grant of up to $2,400 to help with the costs related to adopting digital technologies.
Learn more about the CDAP program here or reach out to the DMS Coordinator to find out if you are eligible.
The DMS ShopHERE powered by Google program creates online stores for independent small businesses and artists at no cost.
Program Eligibility:
- under 10 full time employees (25 if a restaurant)
- registered business in Ontario
- can be a business or artist
- home-based or commercial business
Learn more anout the ShopHERE program on the Digital Main Street Website.
Take the guess work out of your day-to-day business marketing efforts by utilizing a social media calendar to ensure you are staying consistent on your social channels. Check out the latest edition of the Digital Digest to explore the benefits of using this tactic in your marketing strategy.
Find tools, how-to guides and tutorials to assist your business in embracing digital technology. You can also find webinars and workshops on topics such as how to build your online presence, using social media effectively, paid advertising, and much more!
Upcoming Webinars - March 2024
Optimizing for Search Engines - Understanding SEO Basics - Tuesday, March 19, 2024 10-11:30 a.m.
If you are a small business in Halton Hills offering digital services including photography, web design or consulting services, you may be eligible to be added to the Digital Main Street Vendor Directory. If you are added to the directory, businesses across Ontario who receive the Digital Transformation Grant can use your services.
Visit the DMS Vendor Directory Page to submit your business.
Meet with the Halton Small Business team!
Consultants will be available at the Halton Hills Public Library, Georgetown Branch (9 Church Street, Georgetown) to meet with you. Whether you’re planning to start a small business or expand your existing small business, our consultants are ready to help. Halton’s Business Consultants can help you with starting a business, business research, business planning, financing, marketing plans, understanding government regulations, and much more.
Winter/Spring 2024 Office Hours
Thursday, March 14 from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Thursday, April 18 from 10 a.m - 1 p.m.
Thursday, May 16 from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Appointments must be booked in advance:
Email: smallbusiness@halton.ca
Call: 905-825-6000, ext. 7900