An aerial photo from above the Owen Sound harbour looking towards the city at twilight, showing a vibrant downtown lit up against the backdrop of the escarpment and the sunset beyond

Economic Development

Where You Want to Work

A row of people seated in chairs wearing matching blue socks featuring an isotope pattern.

Our Clean Energy Era

Owen Sound is one of four founding members of the Southwestern Ontario Isotope Coalition, a partnership with Saugeen Ojibway Nation, the Nuclear Innovation Institute, and the Canadian Nuclear Isotope Council to drive research and investment in lifesaving medical isotopes. We’re also part of the Clean Energy Frontier, a tri-county network driving innovation in Canadian energy production in partnership with Bruce Power.

Many local companies are pioneering new methods to decarbonize and electrify their industries, including globally-recognized innovators like Hydrogen Optimized and MacLean Engineering.

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Innovation Partners

As a hub for regional connectivity and innovation, Owen Sound works alongside Grey County and neighbouring municipalities to ensure that you can access the people, information, and resources to build or grow your business.

The Sydenham Campus is a regional skills training, trades, and innovation center in Owen Sound, adjacent to Georgian College, with support for entrepreneurs and small businesses. It is also host to the region’s largest Makerspace at 8,000 sq.ft., complete with eight dedicated fabrication spaces to support prototyping and training. Over 150 machines and state-of-the-art equipment are available in this space.

A lush, tree-lined creek in Harrison Park.

Climate Change Resilience

While enjoying the natural protection of our freshwater resources and stable geology, Owen Sound is doing its part to prepare for climate change impacts through regional collaboration on mitigation strategies and preparedness.

We’re also investing in future changemakers as host to the Youth Climate Action Conference, and a proud member of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative.

Community Investment

Our community has identified targeted areas for growth and investment.

The tools to support these investments include a five-point Community Improvement Plan, grants for individuals and businesses, physician recruitment initiatives, and county-wide economic development programs.

Resources

An exterior photo of the red-brick Owen Sound Farmers' Market building

Building & Planning

Planning and Development

Building and Renovating

Applications, Licences and Permits

Community Improvement Plan

Available Properties (MLS) *external site

 

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Business Supports

Grants, Funding and City Subsidies

Business Licences

Reports, Studies and Plans

Grey County Economic Development

Business Enterprise Centre

 

In the Know

Economic Development Newsfeed

A screenshot of two men in blue suits, Mayor Ian Boddy and Bruce Power COO James Scongack, speaking to each other in a video podcast.

featured

Owen Sound Mayor Interviewed for Isotopes for Hope Podcast

Mayor Ian Boddy spoke with James Scongack, Canadian Nuclear Isotope Coalition Chair, on the Isotopes for Hope podcast about the role of municipal leaders in driving regional coordination to support the production of lifesaving medical isotopes. 

Initiatives such as the Southwestern Ontario Isotope Coalition (SOIC) are driven by cooperation between municipal governments and local leaders in the private sector. These organizations demonstrate the power of regional networks in attracting investment, strengthening supply chains, and advancing Canada’s isotope leadership.

Watch Now

  • Mayor Boddy accepting CNIC award beside James Scongack
    Mayor Ian Boddy Wins Municipal Stewardship Award at Nuclear Conference

    Mayor Ian Boddy received the Municipal Government Stewardship Award from the Canadian Nuclear Isotope Council (CNIC) on Tuesday evening as part of the Canadian Nuclear Association’s conference in Ottawa.  The award recognizes the excellence of an elected official who has emerged as a leader in promoting regional isotope production, workforce and talent development, and partnerships to strengthen the regional supply chain.
    Apr 16, 2025
  • Arena floor set up for Home Show
    Grey Bruce Home and Lifestyle Show Vendor Registration Now Open

    The 2026 Grey Bruce Home and Lifestyle Show will be held at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre and JD McArthur Arena on Saturday, May 2 and Sunday, May 3, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The show now has a new name to better reflect its broader content, which has expanded to meet our attendees’ needs. The new branding highlights a more comprehensive experience. The traditional home design, renovation and outdoor living will now also include personal wellness, recreational activities such as hunting and fishing, technology, culture and healthy choices. The rebrand signals growth, freshness, and relevance to today’s evolving interests and consumer habits.
    Nov 13, 2025
  • City Celebrates Groundbreaking at Harbour West Development at Former BCK Site

    Construction has officially begun on ‘Harbour West’, a major new housing development that will bring 224 rental apartments to Owen Sound’s west waterfront area.  The groundbreaking ceremony marks an exciting new chapter for the former Black Clawson Kennedy (BCK) property at 1144 1st Avenue West.

    The Harbour West project, led by Hansa Financial & Property Management, will transform the long-vacant waterfront site into a six-building residential space featuring 224 rental apartments. Site preparation is underway, including the crushing of existing concrete for reuse on site, as well as groundwork for piling and foundation. The first tenants are anticipated to move in by Fall 2026.
    Oct 16, 2025
  • Future Owen Sound document cover page with three people holding signs
    City Council Embraces Future Owen Sound: Vision 2050

    City Council has approved a historic 25-year strategic plan that lays out key principles and priorities to secure Owen Sound’s future as a livable, safe and enjoyable city for everyone. 

    “Vision 2050 charts our City’s future at a time of unprecedented change, challenge and opportunity,” said Mayor Ian Boddy. “It provides a compass bearing for current and future City Councils to set priorities and take action.”
    Oct 07, 2025

In the Know

Economic Development Newsfeed

A screenshot of two men in blue suits, Mayor Ian Boddy and Bruce Power COO James Scongack, speaking to each other in a video podcast.

featured

Owen Sound Mayor Interviewed for Isotopes for Hope Podcast

Mayor Ian Boddy spoke with James Scongack, Canadian Nuclear Isotope Coalition Chair, on the Isotopes for Hope podcast about the role of municipal leaders in driving regional coordination to support the production of lifesaving medical isotopes. 

Watch Now

Contact Us

808 2nd Avenue East,
Owen Sound, ON
N4K 2H4
Phone: 519-376-1440
Email us

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