Tanya's Bookkeepers Bootcamp

10/24/2026

📊 Economic Update | Information Only | Canada

Canada and Ontario Announce $8.7 Billion Action Plan to Support Workers and Industries
On October 21, 2026, Prime Minister Mark Carney and Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced a joint $8.7 billion action plan to support industries affected by U.S. tariffs, strengthen Canadian manufacturing and expand critical mineral development.

Key developments include:
✅ $5.22 billion for steel: A five-year Joint Steel Action Fund will support modernization, production diversification and expansion into new markets, with $3.55 billion federally and $1.67 billion provincially.
✅ $2.5 billion for automotive manufacturing: Federal and provincial funding over two years will help manufacturers modernize equipment and production lines, including those supporting electric and connected vehicles.
✅ Critical mineral infrastructure: Canada will match Ontario's investment of up to $1 billion over three years to support road development in Northern Ontario's Ring of Fire region.
✅ Domestic procurement: Buy Canadian and Buy Ontario policies will prioritize Canadian steel in government purchasing and infrastructure projects.
✅ Trade protections: Stronger enforcement against unfair steel imports and new joint industry task forces will support competitiveness.
✅ Regulatory coordination: Governments will streamline critical mineral permitting and establish a working group focused on First Nations engagement and economic development opportunities.

Why does this matter?
For Canadian businesses, these investments could create opportunities throughout manufacturing, construction, transportation and related supply chains.

Smaller businesses may benefit indirectly through increased demand for Canadian materials, equipment, services and infrastructure support.

However, the funding announced is primarily directed toward major industries and infrastructure. It should not be interpreted as $8.7 billion in direct financial assistance available to small businesses.

The broader economic impact will depend on how quickly projects proceed, funding becomes accessible and investments translate into business activity and employment.

Government investment announcements provide insight into economic priorities, but actual business opportunities depend on implementation and eligibility.

📌 Information only. This post is intended to share economic and business developments, not political commentary or endorsement.



Source:

To that end, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, and the Premier of Ontario, Doug Ford, today announced investments of $8.7 billion and new measures to strengthen strategic industries, support workers and businesses impacted by U.S. tariffs, and drive long-term economic growth.

10/24/2026

📊 Economic Update | Information Only | Canada

Canada and Ontario Announce $8.7 Billion Action Plan to Strengthen Industries and Protect Jobs
The federal and Ontario governments announced a joint $8.7 billion action plan on October 21, 2026, aimed at supporting industries affected by U.S. tariffs, strengthening domestic manufacturing and expanding Canada's critical mineral supply chains.

Key developments include:
✅ $5.22 Billion for Steel: A five-year Joint Steel Action Fund, including $3.55 billion federally and $1.67 billion provincially, will support modernization, market diversification and domestic production.
✅ $2.5 Billion for Automotive: Funding over two years will help manufacturers upgrade equipment, modernize production and prepare for connected and electric vehicle manufacturing.
✅ Critical Minerals: The federal government will match Ontario's commitment of up to $1 billion over three years for road infrastructure supporting Northern Ontario's Ring of Fire region.
✅ Buy Canadian and Buy Ontario: Public procurement policies will prioritize Canadian steel, supporting domestic demand and supply chains.
✅ Trade Protections: Enhanced measures will address unfair steel imports, while new joint task forces will support the steel and automotive industries.
✅ Streamlined Approvals: Federal and provincial governments will coordinate permitting for critical mineral projects and establish a working group to support First Nations engagement.

Why does this matter?
These investments could create opportunities across manufacturing, construction, transportation, mining and related supply chains.
For small and medium-sized businesses, stronger domestic procurement and industrial investment may generate new contracts, encourage equipment upgrades and reduce reliance on U.S. markets.

The longer-term economic impact will depend on project implementation, business participation and whether investments translate into sustainable employment and measurable growth.

📌 Information only. This post summarizes publicly released economic and business information and is not an endorsement of any government, political party or policy.



Source:

Premier Ford and Prime Minister Carney Launch New Action Plan to Protect Workers from Tariffs and Strengthen Ontario Industries | Ontario Newsroom

10/24/2026

📊 Economic Update | Information Only | Canada

Canada and Ontario Announce $8.7 Billion Action Plan to Strengthen Industries and Protect Jobs

The federal and Ontario governments announced a joint $8.7 billion action plan on October 21, 2026, aimed at supporting industries affected by U.S. tariffs, strengthening domestic manufacturing and expanding Canada's critical mineral supply chains.

Key developments include:
✅ $5.22 Billion for Steel: A five-year Joint Steel Action Fund, including $3.55 billion federally and $1.67 billion provincially, will support modernization, market diversification and domestic production.
✅ $2.5 Billion for Automotive: Funding over two years will help manufacturers upgrade equipment, modernize production and prepare for connected and electric vehicle manufacturing.
✅ Critical Minerals: The federal government will match Ontario's commitment of up to $1 billion over three years for road infrastructure supporting Northern Ontario's Ring of Fire region.
✅ Buy Canadian and Buy Ontario: Public procurement policies will prioritize Canadian steel, supporting domestic demand and supply chains.
✅ Trade Protections: Enhanced measures will address unfair steel imports, while new joint task forces will support the steel and automotive industries.
✅ Streamlined Approvals: Federal and provincial governments will coordinate permitting for critical mineral projects and establish a working group to support First Nations engagement.

Why does this matter?
These investments could create opportunities across manufacturing, construction, transportation, mining and related supply chains.
For small and medium-sized businesses, stronger domestic procurement and industrial investment may generate new contracts, encourage equipment upgrades and reduce reliance on U.S. markets.

The longer-term economic impact will depend on project implementation, business participation and whether investments translate into sustainable employment and measurable growth.

📌 Information only. This post summarizes publicly released economic and business information and is not an endorsement of any government, political party or policy.



Source:

Premier Ford and Prime Minister Carney Launch New Action Plan to Protect Workers from Tariffs and Strengthen Ontario Industries | Ontario Newsroom

10/22/2026

📊 ONTARIO ECONOMIC UPDATE | WSIB Premiums Dropping in 2027

💰 Ontario businesses are expected to save $160 million in 2027 as the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) lowers average premium rates.

📊 Key Highlights:
✅ 2027 Premium Rate: Drops from $1.23 to $1.18 per $100 of insurable payroll.
✅ $160 Million in Savings: More than 80% of premium-paying businesses will benefit from reduced rates.
✅ Nearly 50% Reduction: Average premiums have declined from $2.35 in 2018.
✅ $4 Billion Returned: WSIB rebates issued to eligible businesses since 2024.
✅ November 2026: Individual 2027 premium statements will be available through WSIB online services.

🏢 What This Means for Businesses
Lower premiums can help Ontario employers reduce payroll costs, improve cash flow and reinvest in their operations.

💡 My Take:
Any reduction in business costs is welcome, particularly with ongoing economic uncertainty and tariff pressures.
However, $1.18 is the provincial average, not necessarily your business's rate.

Business owners and bookkeepers should review their individual WSIB statements and update their 2027 payroll budgets accordingly.

📅 Effective January 1, 2027

Keeping Canadian Businesses Informed


🔗 Source:

Ontario Saving Businesses $160 Million as WSIB Lowers Premiums | Ontario Newsroom

10/21/2026

There's been recent discussion on changing the name of artificial intelligence into super intelligence. In today's AI in Action I dicuss the practical and perception problems with a name change. Watch on YouTube now!

10/21/2026

📊 Economic Update | Information Only | Ontario

Ontario Investing Over $390,000 to Support Hamilton Businesses Impacted by U.S. Tariffs
The Ontario government announced more than $390,000 in funding to support the launch of the Hamilton Tariff Response Team, a $588,000 initiative designed to help local businesses navigate U.S. tariffs and trade uncertainty.

The initiative focuses particularly on Hamilton's steel and manufacturing industries, supporting supply chain diversification, job retention and long-term economic resilience.

Key developments include:
✅ Business Support: Helping tariff-impacted businesses explore new markets, diversify supply chains and develop strategies to retain jobs.
✅ Economic Intelligence: Expanding access to industry statistics, market analysis and regional data to support business decision-making.
✅ Provincial Funding: The investment comes through Ontario's $40 million Trade-Impacted Communities Program.
✅ Broader Trade Support: The program complements Ontario's $1 billion Protect Ontario Financing Program and $150 million Ontario Together Trade Fund.

💡 Why does this matter?
Tariffs affect more than manufacturers. They can create financial pressure throughout supply chains, impacting transportation, suppliers, service providers and other small businesses.

For business owners, understanding exposure to U.S. markets, reviewing supplier dependencies and monitoring cash flow are increasingly important when managing trade uncertainty.

📌 The Bigger Picture
Ontario's approach focuses on helping affected communities reduce dependence on individual export markets while strengthening domestic supply chains.

The effectiveness of these investments will depend on how businesses access the support and whether diversification efforts translate into sustainable jobs and economic growth.

Economic resilience requires more than funding. Businesses need reliable information, practical planning and the flexibility to adapt when market conditions change.

Information only. This post is intended to share economic and business developments, not political commentary or endorsement.


Source:

Ontario Investing More Than $390,000 to Protect Workers in Hamilton from U.S. Tariffs | Ontario Newsroom

10/21/2026

I’m excited to share that Cloud Business Services Inc. has been recognized with the Financial Management & Advisory Excellence Award at the Great Companies Global Business Awards 2026.

This recognition means a lot because it reflects the work we do every day to help small business owners move beyond just “doing the books” and actually understand their numbers, improve cashflow awareness, and make more confident business decisions.
At Cloud Business Services, we believe bookkeeping should do more than keep you compliant. It should give you clarity, confidence, and practical insight you can actually use.

Thank you to our clients, community, and supporters for trusting us to be part of your journey. Your support is a big part of this milestone, and I’m incredibly grateful.

https://www.greatstory.in/post/beyond-bookkeeping-how-tanya-hilts-is-helping-small-businesses-turn-financial-data-into-better-deci

10/19/2026

📊 Economic Update | Information Only | Ontario

🇨🇦 Ontario Celebrates Small Business Week: Tax Relief and Business Support

On October 19, 2026, the Ontario government recognized Small Business Week, highlighting the contributions of more than 500,000 small businesses employing nearly 2.5 million people across the province.

The announcement also outlined several initiatives aimed at supporting small business growth and economic stability.

Key developments include:
✅ Corporate Tax Reduction: Ontario's 2026 Budget includes a reduction in the provincial small business corporate income tax rate from 3.2% to 2.2%, representing an estimated $1.1 billion in tax relief.
✅ Potential Tax Savings: More than 375,000 small businesses could benefit, with annual savings of up to $5,000 per eligible business.
✅ Business Advisory Support: Ontario is investing $49 million over three years in Ontario Small Business Advisory Centres (OSBACs), offering consultations, training and information about available government programs.
✅ Provincewide Access: Entrepreneurs can access advisory services at more than 50 locations across Ontario.
✅ Youth Entrepreneurship: Continued investments in Futurpreneur and Summer Company aim to improve access to financing, mentorship and business training.
✅ Business Cost Relief: Ontario reports that measures introduced since 2018 are providing businesses with approximately $12 billion in annual savings.

💡 Why does this matter?
Small businesses are essential to Ontario's employment, local economies and community development.
Corporate tax reductions may improve cash flow for profitable eligible businesses, while expanded advisory services can help entrepreneurs access practical support.
However, businesses operating at a loss may see little immediate benefit from corporate income tax reductions.

📌 The Bigger Picture
With rising costs, trade uncertainty and cash flow pressures, understanding available government programs and eligibility requirements remains important.

The financial benefits will vary depending on each business's profitability, structure and circumstances.
Information only. This post shares economic developments and does not represent political endorsement.



Source:

Ontario Celebrates Small Business Week | Ontario Newsroom

10/19/2026

AI is moving fast. But are we asking the right questions about where it's taking us?

I recently had the pleasure of joining Heather Day on The Woodard Report Podcast for a conversation about AI, ethics, governance, and something I feel strongly about: the power of the small.

We talked about my experience participating in the United Nations AIFOD AI Summit in Geneva, where one of the biggest takeaways for me was that smaller countries, small businesses, and everyday professionals need a seat at the table.

Because the decisions being made about AI today will affect all of us tomorrow.

We also got into some of the tougher conversations:
- What happens when AI advances faster than our ability to govern it?
- Are we giving up too much human judgment in the name of efficiency?
- What are the economic and environmental consequences of this rapid expansion?
- And what responsibility do we, as accounting professionals, have when using AI in our own practices?

One thing I said during the conversation sums up my approach pretty well:
"If you can't do it manually, you have no business using AI to do it."

AI can be an incredible tool. I use it every day. But we still need to understand what it's doing, question its outputs, and take responsibility for the decisions we make with it.

And perhaps most importantly, we can't leave the future of AI entirely in the hands of the largest technology companies.

The small voices matter, too.

A big thank you to Heather and The Woodard Report for giving me the opportunity to share this conversation.

🎧 Here's the article and podcast: https://report.woodard.com/articles/episode-191-ai-ethics-the-power-of-the-small-oaiwr-twrpod

I'd love to hear your thoughts. Are we doing enough to keep human judgment and accountability at the centre of AI adoption?

10/16/2026

Ontario Welcomes $479 Million Manufacturing Investment in London

October 16, 2026 | Ontario Economic Update

Ontario is welcoming a $479 million investment from Hitachi Energy Canada to establish a new advanced manufacturing facility in London, Ontario.

The investment will create more than 100 jobs, strengthen Canada's domestic manufacturing capabilities, and help meet growing electricity demands across North America.

Here's what's happening:
🔹 $479 million investment: Hitachi Energy is establishing a 21,000-square-metre Transformer Insulation Centre in London's Huron Industrial Park, with completion expected in 2028.
🔹 100+ new jobs: The project is expected to create skilled manufacturing employment opportunities in the London region.
🔹 Canadian manufacturing first: The facility will introduce Canada's first transformer pressboard manufacturing line, producing a critical insulation material used in electrical transformers.
🔹 Significant production capacity: The facility is designed to manufacture up to 20,000 tonnes of pressboard annually, reducing dependence on imported materials.
🔹 Federal support: The Government of Canada is contributing $30 million through two federal funding programs.
🔹 Growing Ontario investment: This announcement follows Hitachi Energy's $30 million investment in transformer repair, service and training operations in Stoney Creek.

𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐝𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐝𝐚'𝐬 𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐦𝐲?
Electricity demand is growing, and expanding the electrical grid requires more than generating additional power. Canada also needs the manufacturing infrastructure and materials to distribute that electricity reliably.

Producing critical transformer components domestically could reduce supply chain vulnerabilities, support Canadian employment and create opportunities for businesses supplying goods and services to the manufacturing and energy sectors.

𝐌𝐲 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞:
Investments like this are encouraging because they focus on building long-term manufacturing capacity here in Canada.

However, announcements and completed projects are two different things. The real economic impact will depend on construction progressing as planned, jobs being created and sustained, and how much of the economic activity benefits Canadian suppliers and communities.

It's worth watching how this investment develops between now and 2028.

Source: https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/1008149/ontario-welcomes-479-million-advanced-manufacturing-investment-in-london

Ontario Welcomes $479 Million Advanced Manufacturing Investment in London | Ontario Newsroom