The Stratford & District Chamber of Commerce stands shoulder to shoulder with our local business community as we respond to the impact of U.S. tariffs. From Stratford and St. Marys to Mitchell and across Perth County, we are committed to ensuring businesses have access to timely, relevant tools that support their success. As the region’s leading voice of business, we continue to champion economic prosperity and an exceptional quality of life through advocacy, collaboration, and action. This resource hub brings together programs, insights, and supports that can help businesses navigate the shifting landscape of global trade. By standing strong together, we are building the foundation for long-term strength, stability, and resilience in our local economy.
If you have questions or need support identifying the right resource for your business, please contact Aaron Martin, General Manager, at manager@stratfordchamber.com.
This resource hub is a living document and will be updated on a continuous basis as new programs, insights, and support tools become available. We encourage you to check back regularly for the latest information and opportunities.
Stratford Perth Tariff Response Task Force
Coordinated by investStratford, the Tariff Response Task Force (TRTF) unites regional partners to provide immediate and long-term support to businesses, employees, and communities affected by trade uncertainty. Sub-committees focus on industry-specific response strategies across Stratford, St. Marys, and Perth County. This task force operates under SEEDCo. and aligns with the city’s economic development priorities. Learn more at the Taskforce page
Chambers of the Federation Policy Framework
This national policy framework reflects the collective voice of Canada’s provincial and territorial chambers of commerce. It outlines strategic recommendations including the removal of internal trade barriers, streamlined labour mobility, and energy corridor development. These priorities aim to strengthen Canada’s economic sovereignty and trade competitiveness. Read the full framework
Navigating U.S. Tariffs – Ontario Chamber of Commerce
The Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) has developed a dedicated resource to help businesses stay informed and prepared amid ongoing tariff challenges. This timeline-based hub tracks key events, government responses, and economic updates related to U.S. trade actions. It highlights sector-specific risks and policy recommendations aimed at protecting Ontario’s competitiveness. Businesses can access expert insights, strategic guidance, and advocacy updates in one centralized location. View the OCC’s Tariff Resource
BDC Pivot to Grow Loan
The BDC Pivot to Grow Loan offers up to $2 million in financing to help Canadian SMEs manage the impact of U.S. tariffs and trade uncertainty. This funding can support businesses in preserving cash flow, adjusting supply chains, and implementing long-term resiliency strategies. Eligible businesses must earn at least 25% of their revenue from U.S. exports and have annual sales of $2 million or more. The loan includes interest-only payments for up to 12 months and flexible repayment terms. Learn more or apply through the BDC website
EDC Trade Support for Canadian Companies
Export Development Canada (EDC) is offering targeted financial solutions to help Canadian companies manage the impact of trade disruptions, including U.S. tariffs. The program provides up to $5 billion in additional support through credit, insurance, and working capital financing. It’s designed for businesses that export to the U.S. or are part of supply chains impacted by shifting trade policies. EDC also offers advisory services to help companies adapt, grow, and mitigate future risks. Learn more at the EDC Trade Support page
Support for Canadian Businesses and Workers
The Government of Canada offers a suite of programs to assist businesses and workers directly impacted by U.S. tariffs. Support measures include the Duties Relief and Duty Drawback Programs, tax deferrals, and liquidity options like the Large Enterprise Tariff Loan facility. Temporary enhancements to EI and the Work-Sharing Program are also available. Sector-specific support is offered to manufacturing, agriculture, and export-focused businesses. Visit the Support for Canadian Businesses and Workers page
CBSA Duties Relief Program
The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) Duties Relief Program allows Canadian businesses to import goods without paying duties, provided those goods are eventually exported. This program benefits companies that either export goods in their original state or use them in the production of other goods for export. Participants must apply using Form K90 and are required to export the goods within four years of importation. The CBSA conducts periodic audits to ensure compliance. For more information, visit the CBSA Duties Relief Program page
Canada's Response to U.S. Tariffs
In response to the U.S. imposing tariffs on Canadian goods, the Government of Canada has implemented reciprocal tariffs and launched sector-specific support. These measures are designed to protect affected industries and workers while reinforcing Canadian sovereignty and supply chains. Businesses can explore impacted goods and available financial tools. For more details, visit the Canada’s Response to U.S. Tariffs page
Work-Sharing Program – Tariff Special Measures
The Work-Sharing Program helps employers and employees avoid layoffs during temporary reductions in business activity beyond the employer's control. Special measures are in place from March 7, 2025, to March 6, 2026, for businesses impacted by U.S. tariffs. These enhancements extend coverage up to 76 weeks, waive cooling-off periods, and expand eligibility criteria. This is a valuable tool for maintaining your workforce through economic fluctuations. Learn more via the Work-Sharing Program page
Tools for Small Business
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce offers a collection of resources to help small businesses build resilience and growth. Topics include continuity planning, market expansion, exporting, mental health, and inclusive leadership. Whether you’re scaling up or rethinking operations, these tools offer step-by-step guidance. Browse the full collection at the Tools for Small Business page
Canada-U.S. Trade Tracker
Developed by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s Business Data Lab, this interactive tool visualizes Canada’s $3.6 billion in daily trade with the U.S. It offers insights into industry trends, regional dependencies, and potential tariff impacts. Users can explore data by province, state, or sector to inform decision-making. Access the Canada-U.S. Trade Tracker
Canadian Cities Most Exposed to U.S. Tariffs
This study identifies Canadian cities most vulnerable to U.S. tariffs, including several in Southwestern Ontario. Using a Tariff Exposure Index, it examines the depth of local economic ties to U.S. trade. The tool includes a ranking of 41 Canadian metro areas and offers valuable perspective for policy and planning. Dive into the full analysis
Weathering the Storm: A Canadian SME Playbook
This actionable playbook from the Toronto Region Board of Trade offers strategies for Canadian SMEs affected by tariffs. It includes tools to protect cash flow, renegotiate contracts, and build more resilient supply chains. It’s designed for business owners seeking clarity and control in the face of global disruptions. Download the PDF
RBC Consumer Spending Tracker
The RBC Consumer Spending Tracker offers real-time insights into Canadian consumer behavior by analyzing anonymized card transactions. It tracks spending across key categories such as groceries, travel, dining, and household goods, giving businesses insight into shifting demand patterns. The tracker is updated regularly to reflect seasonality and macroeconomic trends. View the latest report at the RBC Spending Tracker
TD Quarterly Economic Forecast
TD Economics projects that Canada is likely to enter a mild recession in 2025, driven in part by new U.S. tariffs and their disruptive impact on trade and consumer confidence. Real GDP is expected to contract in the second and third quarters before rebounding modestly by year-end. While the unemployment rate may rise slightly, slower labor force growth is expected to soften the blow. Inflation is forecasted to remain above the Bank of Canada’s 2% target, prompting interest rate cuts to support domestic demand. Read the full analysis in the TD Quarterly Economic Forecast
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