Staff reported that all the actions outlined in the plan have either been completed or completed and ongoing, items that have contributed to increasing local economic prosperity in Lincoln. The success of the strategy is measurable through a variety of statistics. Overall, since the plan was introduced, Lincoln has more jobs and more private sector companies, all reflective in an increase in the Town’s building permit process. In addition to bringing more people into the community to support Lincoln businesses, which in turn encourages additional commercial investment, this industrial and commercial growth results in jobs being created and income opportunities for our residents.

In total, approximately 160 permits have gone through the Town’s building permit process for either agricultural, commercial, or industrial purposes. Of the 160 permits, 122 came from existing businesses expanding or growing their operations. This has yielded approximately $143,840,100.00 in construction value.

"In the past few years, we have welcomed more businesses and brought in more jobs to Lincoln, and the numbers in this report tell the story of the healthy environment we have created for businesses to flourish," said Town of Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton. "Businesses move to Lincoln and stay here thanks to this quality of life and our open for business culture."

Since 2018, Lincoln has also seen an increase of 1,992 jobs or 14%. Lincoln’s key businesses continue to be represented within the agriculture, manufacturing, construction, retail trade, wholesale trade, accommodation and food services, and healthcare sectors which make up 66% of the total jobs in Lincoln in 2023.

"Lincoln and the Niagara Benchlands have been a hidden gem for many years, but we are no longer the best keep secret in Niagara – we are a force to be reckoned with," said J.D. Pachereva, Ward 2 Councillor and Chair of the Town’s Planning & Economic Development Committee. "Council and staff have worked collaboratively with business community to advance key activities within our Economic Development Strategy, and the results speak for themselves."

Key to Lincoln’s economic growth is a strategic effort played in helping our existing businesses grow in Lincoln. Our Business Retention and Expansion activities have helped 122 businesses reinvest in Lincoln, creating jobs and economic prosperity for all.

The Town’s Director of Economic Development, Paul Di Ianni added, “Our Economic Development team is focused on exceptional service and support to businesses, ensuring their needs are addressed and the connections and resources are available to support their growth and prosperity. This is an important component of our strategy which has led to demonstrable results reflective in the more businesses and more jobs we have in Lincoln as compared to 5-years ago.”

Town staff are in the process of developing a new Economic Development Strategy and encourage residents and businesses to get involved. Check out our SpeakUpLincoln.ca page for additional information.

For more information on Lincoln’s current Economic Development Strategy and Action Plan, visit Lincoln.ca.

Background

Town of Lincoln Key Performance Indicators, 2018 – 2023

Economic Development Strategy: Pillars and Sectors
2019-2023 Economic Development Strategy and Action Plan was anchored on the following six pillars, to focus strategic efforts and drive results:

1. Promote an “Open for Business” message
2. Business retention and expansion
3. Innovation and entrepreneurship
4. Attracting new investment
5. Talent and workforce development
6. Marketing

The actions arising from these pillars support the Town’s four key sectors, in our efforts to spur economic development and job creation. These sectors are:

• Agriculture
• Food and beverage
• Tourism
• Manufacturing

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For media inquiries, please contact:
Liliana Busnello
Manager of Corporate Communications
Town of Lincoln
905-563-2799 ext. 230