Supporting local in a changing economy

While ongoing trade challenges continue to create uncertainty for businesses, Durham Region’s commitment to our local economy is clear. Supporting businesses and workers is a priority. That’s why we’re working with partners across the region, connecting businesses with available resources and looking at the choices we make as an organization to help strengthen our local economy. We all have a role to play, and choosing local is one way we can help.

Working together to support businesses

Working together is an important part of the Region’s response. The Durham Economic Task Force (DETF) brings local partners together to identify challenges facing businesses, share information and help connect businesses with available support. First established during the COVID-19 pandemic, the DETF was brought back together when U.S. tariffs were first introduced in early 2025. As new tariffs create further uncertainty, the task force is meeting regularly once again to stay informed about the impacts on businesses.

The DETF brings together members from Invest Durham, local municipal economic development teams, chambers of commerce and boards of trade, post-secondary institutions, innovation hubs, employment services and Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation. Durham is home to thousands of businesses, from manufacturers and technology companies to farms, restaurants and family-owned shops, each facing different needs and challenges.

“Having these partners at the table allows us to hear what is happening in communities across Durham and respond together,” says Sandra Austin, the Region’s Commissioner for Community Growth and Economic Development. “It gives us a forum to coordinate our response and connect businesses with the resources available through Invest Durham and our economic development network. We want businesses to know they are not navigating these challenges alone."

Helping businesses navigate change

Invest Durham, the Region’s economic development team, is focused on supporting growth and investment across Durham. Businesses looking for information and support can start with the
Invest Durham Tariff Response page. It brings together current trade updates, business tools and links to federal and provincial programs and supports.

“Businesses are having to make decisions in an ever-changing environment,” says Jacquie Severs, Director of Economic Development and Tourism for the Region. “Our goal is to help businesses find the information and resources faster and from a central, trustworthy source, so they can have more time to focus on their day-to-day operations.”

Putting our purchasing power to work

The Region is also taking action through its own spending. Every year, we purchase a wide range of goods and services to deliver the programs residents rely on. Where possible, departments are prioritizing more of that spending toward Ontario and Canadian suppliers, while reducing reliance on U.S.-based products.

“We know that where we spend our dollars matters, especially at a time like this,” says Mary Simpson, the Region’s Director of Risk Management, Economic Studies and Procurement. “We want to make responsible choices that support Canadian businesses while continuing to meet the needs of our communities.”

Discover more close to home

Supporting local is something we can all be a part of. Shopping, dining and exploring locally are simple ways to support Durham businesses and the people who make our communities thrive. Visit
Durham Tourism and follow them on Instagram to discover places to shop local, enjoy local food and find ideas and inspiration.

“We have so much to be proud of here in Durham,” says Severs. “Local food from farm to table, handmade goods, great destinations and entertainment, amazing recreation and outdoor space. Staying, playing, eating and shopping in Durham helps create and sustain local jobs. Durham Tourism offers an incredible range of ideas of how to have a bit of fun, while keeping dollars close to home, ensuring maximum economic impact and strengthening our community for the future."

While no one can predict exactly how the economy will evolve, we know that resilience comes from working together. By supporting local businesses and workers and making thoughtful choices close to home, we can help keep Durham strong through whatever comes next.