Starting a Tourism Business
Starting a business in Oxford County can be an exciting opportunity, and there are many local organizations available to help you navigate the process. Whether you need assistance with business planning, permits and licensing, funding opportunities, marketing, tourism development, or networking, this section will connect you with the right contacts and support services.
Community Futures Oxford
Community Futures Oxford provides business loans, advisory services, business planning assistance, and support for entrepreneurs in rural communities. They can help with business plans, financing options, and growth strategies.
Community Futures Oxford | Home
Small Business Centre
Oxford County Small Business Centre offers free consultations, business plan reviews, workshops, mentoring, and guidance on permits, registrations, and regulations required to start a business.
Small Business Centre | Woodstock Economic Development
Rural Oxford
Rural Oxford supports entrepreneurs and rural businesses through business development resources, networking opportunities, funding information, and programs that help strengthen Oxford County's rural economy.
Chambers of Commerce:
Economic development services across Oxford County can help with business planning, growth, site selection, approvals, and other needs. Explore the services and offices below:
- Business planning: Develop an actionable business plan.
- Business retention and growth: Find programs to help an existing business thrive.
- Communications and publicity: Access marketing and promotional support.
- Employee relocation: Find resources to help staff settle in Tillsonburg.
- Site selection: Explore land, buildings, and industrial parks.
- Government liaison: Connect with all levels of government.
- Government support: Explore grants, incentives, and funding programs.
- Approvals: Get guidance on planning, permits, and zoning.
- Recruitment: Connect with job fairs and local talent.
Find Your Economic Development Office:
- Ingersoll
- Rural Oxford (Blandford-Blenheim, East Zorra-Tavistock, Norwich, Southwest Oxford, Zorra)
- Tillsonburg
- Woodstock
Public Health
Businesses, organizations, and event organizers may need to work with public health on inspections and safety requirements. Areas include food services, personal services, and water testing. Visit the public health website for education, applications, and inspection information.
Contact: Southwestern Public Health https://www.swpublichealth.ca
Alcohol Licensing
If you plan to sell or serve alcohol, you will need approval from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO). Before applying, verify your zoning, tax compliance, and business ownership information.
Apply through: https://www.agco.ca
Planning, Business Licensing, Bylaws & Building Permits
Business licensing, bylaw, and building permit requirements vary by municipality. Use your municipality’s website to find the relevant processes and standards. For help navigating the process, contact the Small Business Centre.
You may need:
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Zoning review
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Building permits
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Site plan approval
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Change of use approval
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Sign permits
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Development approvals
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Municipal business license (where applicable)
Oxford County Planning Department:
Special events may require permits, licences, or inspections. Each municipality has its own special event bylaws, so contact your local municipality by phone or email to discuss your plans.
- Blandford-Blenheim
- East Zorra-Tavistock
- Ingersoll
- Norwich
- South-West Oxford
- Tillsonburg
- Woodstock
- Zorra
Also connect with Southwest Public Health about food services. Build safety considerations into your event planning.
Tourism businesses that meet the eligibility requirements, listing categories, and terms can apply for a free listing on the TourismOxford.ca
Get Started
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Review Eligibility Requirements
Confirm your business meets the listing criteria and review the applicable categories and terms. -
Add Your Business
Complete the application to be considered for a TourismOxford.ca listing. Add Your Business -
Promote Your Events
Once listed, submit your festivals, markets, workshops, tours, and special events to the Tourism Oxford Events Calendar to reach more visitors.
Explore Reports, Strategies and Research for tourism market insights.
Learn more here: