Entrepreneurship is the backbone of Scarborough’s economy. Small and medium-sized businesses fuel innovation, create jobs, and provide the foundation for long-term community growth. Yet turning an idea into a sustainable business requires more than vision—it requires knowledge, financial tools, and supportive networks.
The Scarborough Business Association (SBA) is committed to ensuring entrepreneurs have access to these wraparound supports, so they can succeed and contribute to our local economy.
Focusing on the fundamentals
Every business begins with the fundamentals: understanding finances, building operations, and finding customers. Too often, entrepreneurs are left to figure these pieces out on their own, which slows growth and limits job creation.
That is why SBA, in partnership with Toronto Public Library, is launching a series of workshops designed specifically to address these challenges. By hosting these sessions in library spaces across Scarborough—and extending throughout Toronto—we are making practical, accessible training available to entrepreneurs where they live and work.
Financial institutions and credit tools
Access to financing remains one of the greatest barriers to entrepreneurship. Loans, lines of credit, and business credit cards are essential tools, but many business owners need guidance on how to use them effectively. Our workshops will connect entrepreneurs directly with financial institutions, providing expert advice on how to access capital and manage credit responsibly. These tools, when used well, can help businesses grow sustainably and with confidence.
Government and city supports
Public sector programs—from the City of Toronto to provincial and federal governments—offer grants, training, and incentives that are often underutilized. Through our workshops and advocacy, SBA will spotlight these supports and help entrepreneurs navigate the application process. Ensuring Scarborough businesses can take advantage of these opportunities is key to unlocking growth and job creation in our community.
The subway extension and Golden Mile growth
Scarborough is also at the centre of historic investment. The Scarborough Subway Extension—the largest transit expansion in Canadian history—will stretch 7.8 kilometres with three new stations. Once complete, it is expected to serve approximately 105,000 daily riders and bring rapid transit within walking distance for nearly 38,000 residents. This project is not just about transit—it is about economic transformation.
Combined with the redevelopment of the Golden Mile, where 13 major development applications are already in motion, Scarborough is poised for an unprecedented wave of growth. New housing, retail, and commercial space will attract investment, create thousands of jobs, and open doors for local entrepreneurs across multiple sectors—from construction and professional services to technology and retail. SBA is focused on preparing businesses to seize these opportunities and to ensure Scarborough’s entrepreneurs are part of this next chapter.
Networking and mentorship
Strong networks are just as important as financial and government supports. By using libraries as community hubs, SBA is creating spaces where entrepreneurs can learn from each other, form partnerships, and connect with mentors who have walked the path before them. These relationships extend beyond a single workshop, providing ongoing guidance and collaboration that strengthen Scarborough’s business ecosystem.
Moving forward together
Entrepreneurship is not a solo effort; it thrives when supported by community. Through our partnership with Toronto Public Library, financial institutions, government partners, and by preparing for major developments like the Scarborough Subway Extension and Golden Mile redevelopment, SBA is ensuring that entrepreneurs have the training, tools, and networks they need to succeed.
By investing in these supports, we are not only helping individual business owners—we are strengthening Scarborough’s economy and ensuring our community continues to grow as a hub for innovation and opportunity.
