As we welcome 2026, small businesses across Ontario are entering a year defined not only by resilience, but by opportunity. Ontario’s entrepreneurs continue to navigate global uncertainty, shifting consumer expectations, and rapid technological change. Despite these challenges, our small business community has shown that they do not simply react to change, they drive it.
Ontario’s entrepreneurs inspire me every day, bravely following their dreams with courage and confidence. From launching a new venture, to modernizing long-standing operations, or preparing the next generation for leadership, they play a vital role in shaping Ontario’s economic future.
Our government, under Premier Doug Ford’s leadership, remains firmly committed to supporting that ambition. By reducing costs, cutting red tape, and improving access to practical supports, Ontario delivered $11.9 billion in savings and supports to businesses in 2025. Measures like tax relief, reduced WSIB premiums, and electricity savings have helped small businesses reinvest where it matters most, in their people and their communities.
We’re keeping that momentum going. In 2025, we introduced a series of new supports like Succession Ontario, our province’s Business Succession Planning Hub that provides entrepreneurs with the guidance and resources needed to plan ownership transitions early and effectively. With many owners preparing to retire in the coming decade, this support will help local businesses remain open, protect jobs, and preserve the character of communities across our province.
We also know that digital modernization is fundamental to competitiveness. Through the Retail Modernization Project Grant, small retailers can receive up to $5,000 in matching funds to adopt tools like online payment systems, inventory management software, digital marketing platforms, cybersecurity solutions, and advanced AI technologies. These upgrades will help businesses increase efficiency, expand their reach and meet the expectations of today’s consumers.
As 2026 begins, I want every small business owner to know that our government will continue to stand with you, championing your growth, innovation, and success while ensuring Ontario remains the best place to build, grow, and dream.
Nina Tangri
Associate Minister of Small Business
The Honourable Nina Tangri was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Ontario in 2018 as the Member of Provincial Parliament representing the riding of Mississauga—Streetsville. Nina Tangri is also Associate Minister of Small Business.
In March 2023, she was the Associate Minister of Housing, and in 2021, she served as the Minister of Small Business and Red Tape Reduction. In June 2019, Nina was appointed Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation, and Trade.
Our government, under Premier Doug Ford’s leadership, remains firmly committed to supporting that ambition. By reducing costs, cutting red tape, and improving access to practical supports, Ontario delivered $11.9 billion in savings and supports to businesses in 2025. Measures like tax relief, reduced WSIB premiums, and electricity savings have helped small businesses reinvest where it matters most, in their people and their communities.
