Regional Business Support Solutions
Grow Your Business in Windsor-Essex
Windsor-Essex is home to a collaborative ecosystem of organizations that support businesses of all sizes. From startups to established enterprises, you can access guidance on funding, workforce development, exporting, innovation, and business expansion.
Explore our directory to connect with the right resources and unlock the potential of your business in Windsor-Essex.
Business Services and Programs
Windsor-Essex offers a strong network of organizations and resources to help businesses start, grow, and succeed. Explore local programs, advisory services, and community partners dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs and business owners.
Invest WindsorEssex provides comprehensive business development and investment attraction services to support new and existing businesses.
- One-on-one business support to help companies start, grow, expand, or relocate.
- Expert guidance on financing options, market opportunities, and strategic business planning.
- Access the Invest WindsorEssex Data Centre for real-time economic data, site selection tools, and investment analysis to guide informed business decisions.
Small Business and Entrepreneurship (SBEC)
As part of Invest WindsorEssex, SBEC delivers small business resources, startup mentoring, and entrepreneurship advisory services, helping new and early-stage businesses launch and scale successfully.
A regional leader in workforce development, connecting businesses with skilled workers, labour market insights, and talent recruitment tools to support employer needs.
The region’s technology and innovation hub, supporting tech-focused startups and companies with mentorship, programming, and opportunities to accelerate growth.
Windsor Essex Chamber of Commerce
Providing business advocacy, networking opportunities, and policy leadership to help local businesses succeed in a competitive economy.
Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island
Promoting regional tourism development, local experiences, and visitor attraction to support local business growth, hospitality, retail, and cultural economic development across Windsor-Essex.
Employment Support Services
Access tools and programs designed to help you recruit and train top talent, along with wage subsidies, job-matching services, and workforce development resources. Whether you’re hiring your first employee or growing your team, these resources can help you build a strong, skilled workforce in Windsor-Essex.
- Employment Training Services (ETS) to upskill your workforce
- Windsor Essex Regional Employmenttwork (WREN) for workforce planning and talent connections
Education and Talent Partners
Windsor-Essex is home to two leading post-secondary institutions that drive workforce development, innovation, and industry collaboration. The University of Windsor and St. Clair College work closely with employers to build skilled talent pipelines, deliver industry-responsive training, and provide applied research solutions that support business growth across the region.
Together, these education partners connect businesses with co-op students and graduates, customized training programs, and innovation supports—helping companies scale, innovate, and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving economy.
A comprehensive research university and a key driver of innovation, talent development, and industry partnerships.
- Access to co-op students, interns, and work-integrated learning opportunities
- Applied research, testing facilities, and industry partnerships through the Office of Research & Innovation
- Specialized institutes supporting business innovation, including the Cross-Border Institute, Odette School of Business, and the School of Engineering
- Talent pipelines in engineering, business, law, computer science, nursing, social sciences, and emerging technology fields
A leading college offering industry-aligned training, skilled trades programs, and rapid upskilling tailored to employer needs.
- Industry-responsive diploma and certificate programs in health care, trades, technology, hospitality, and business
- Direct access to graduates prepared for in-demand workforce needs
- Employer partnerships for apprenticeship, co-op placements, and corporate training
- Applied research and innovation supports for companies through the Applied Research & Innovation department
This strong education ecosystem ensures employers in Windsor-Essex have access to top talent, custom training, and industry-driven innovation.
Regional Development Agencies (RDA)
Windsor‑Essex is supported by a strong regional network of economic development organizations, sector-specific associations, and experienced business advisors—all working together to help your business grow. By leveraging local expertise, you can navigate challenges, uncover opportunities, and accelerate your company’s success.
Canada’s Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) collaborate closely with businesses and innovators in their regions to drive economic growth and create quality, middle-class jobs.
Through this network, your business gains access to:
- Strategic guidance for business expansion and investment
- Funding programs, workforce development initiatives, and training supports
- Sector-specific insights and professional networks
- Assistance navigating regulations, permits, and government programs
These local resources are complemented by national frameworks. For example, Canada’s RDAs, led by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED), provide additional funding, guidance, and support to help businesses thrive.
Contact Information
Take the first step today. Explore our business directory or contact us to access the right resources and support. Our team can connect you with investment opportunities and provide comprehensive regional data — helping you discover why Windsor is the ideal place to live, work, and grow.
Email: ecdev@citywindsor.ca