COMMUNITY PROFILE
Known as the “Gateway to Muskoka� Central location, picturesque landscapes and a growing seasonal and permanent resident base. Add in dirct access to major transportation connections for national and international distribution and mixed with the low cost of living and doing business are just some of the reasons Gravenhurst is a great place to be. Carved out of the Canadian Shield and surrounded by the natural beauty of dozens of lakes, rivers and streams, Gravenhurst truly is a paradise for outdoor recreation and wilderness adventures. Gravenhurst is also located just a short drive away from many Provincial Parks and Conservation Areas making it a perfect launch point for Muskoka adventures. For over 125 years Gravenhurst has been a key destination for residents, visitors and business investments. Today it continues to grow and prosper as new people discover opportunities and the Muskoka way of life.
“Gravenhurst has a rich and exciting history” The Town began at the boom of the lumber trade becoming prosperous and flush with sawmills and lumberyards. This brought the railway and steamships which in turn welcomed the first tourists to Muskoka. In 1887, fire destroyed most of Gravenhurst’s buildings in the center of town. Most of the older buildings that remain today were built after this time. In the same year, Gravenhurst was incorporated as a town. The resiliancy of our town helped drive continued economic growth. This resiliancy still exists today. In 1896, Gravenhurst became a haven for tuberculosis patients. As doctors prescribed plenty of fresh air and quiet relaxation, several hospitals and sanatoriums were built along the shore of Lake Muskoka. Shortly, before the patients flocked here in the 1880’s, a house at the corner of John St. and Hughson St. was built as the manse for the Presbyterian Church. Reverend Bethune’s son Norman was born here in 1890. Norman Bethune went on to become a surgeon and achieved great recognition in the medical world for his invention of medical tools like mobile blood transfusion units, developed as part of his work overseas. For his pioneering ways, Bethune was hailed as a hero, here and around the world, especially in China.
Today, Gravenhurst is home to many of Muskoka’s most recognized cultural assets, including the Gravenhurst Opera House, Muskoka Wharf and the Bethune Memorial House and Museum. We also boast a wide range of year round attractions, restaurants, and accommodations for visitors and community members alike.
Location, Location
Centrally located, Gravenhurst lies along the major transportation supply route, connecting Ontario from north to south. Hwy 11, which runs north through Muskoka up to North Bay, and south through Barrie to Toronto and the US border, within 3-4 hours. Routes off Hwy 11 round the region give direct access east to Ottawa. Muskoka Road 169 runs northwest through Muskoka Lakes on to Hwy 400 to Parry Sound.
Proximity to Major Urban Centers • Barrie - 75 kms (45 mins) • North Bay - 177 kms (95 mins) • Toronto - 183 kms (1.5 hrs) • USA Border, NY- 300 kms (3 hrs) • Ottawa - 373 kms (4.5 hrs)
Gravenhurst makes the ideal location for telecommuting. Proximity to both Barrie and Toronto, Gravenhurst is never more than a few hours away for when an in-person presence is needed. Telecommuting can lead to greater productivity, help address skilled labour shortages, and reduce a business’ carbon footprint.
Downtown Gravenhurst is a prime investment area and is home to many unique and exciting businesses. Contained within Gravenhurst’s downtown is the Business Improvement Area (BIA) who undertakes beautification, marketing, and events to encourage increased foot traffic and spending. This area also has access to various incentive programs including the Community Improvement Plan and the Downtown Dollar Program. The Muskoka Wharf is 89 acres of Muskoka waterfront boasting over 2000 feet of public boardwalk connecting residential developments, visitor accommodations and a variety of stores, restaurants and services. The are showcasing our history aboard the Muskoka Steamships, the oldest operating steamship in North America – the R.M.S. Segwun and in Discovery Centre Museum. A mix of retail and food service anchor this mixed-use development. The Wharf sees many annual festivals and events, such as the Farmer’s Market, which runs from May to October, Dockside Festival of the Arts, In-Water Boat Show and Muskoka RibFest as well as a playground with Splash Pad, public docks, and other outdoor recreational facilities. The South Retail District is located off Hwy 11, into Gravenhurst. It has the largest concentration of big box and convenience retail options for residents and highway travelers through Muskoka. This newer retail area is anchored by a large grocery and LCBO store, and has for lease and development options still available. The Highway 11 corridor is a busy corridor and home to many industrial and commercial businesses who are capitalizing on easy access to transportation routes and a high volume of customer traffic. This route sees over 34,000 cars daily during peak times. The Muskoka Airport is located in Gravenhurst, making us accessible by air. It is an official Canada Customs Airport of Entry and can accommodate large commercial and shipping aircrafts. The airport services charter companies, corporate flights, recreational flyers and commercial air traffic. Industrial land is available including air side lots. Come join the Muskoka Aircraft Maintenance and Modification cluster.
Population & Workforce
Gravenhurst’s population grows steadily each year Gravenhurst’s population has grown steadily year after year and currently sits at 12,936. In addition to a year-round population, there is a sizeable seasonal population base of 11,327. 30% of the population is between the ages of 20 and 44 years old and Gravenhurst’s average resident age is 48, proving that Gravenhurst is the right choice no matter your stage of life! Trends have begun to show an increase number of young professionals choosing the area. Since 2010, 87% of new residents came to Gravenhurst from within the province.
Town Population 13,000 Permanent 11,300 Seasonal Muskoka Population 60,391 Permanent 80,907 Seasonal 13%
Age 15-29
30%
Age 30-54
Resident Age Profile Age 55-75
Permanent residents of working age
33%
Town Pop Projections (2041) 17,300 Permanent 13,600 Seasonal Muskoka Pop Projections (2041) 84,000 Permanent 94,000 Seasonal Educational Institutions 3 public elementary schools, 1 high school, 1 Adult Education Center Proximity to post-secondary
Age 25-64
Post-secondary Education Workforce College or University Trained 59%
56.1%
Workforce By Industry Participation Rate (1) Employment Rate (2) Unemployment Rate (3)
(1) (2)
(3)
51.3%
Workforce By Industry Retail, Accomodations, Arts & Entertainment
1695
Administration, Health & Education
1420
Construction, Utilities & Transportation
1250
Professional Services, Finance & Real Estate Agriculture, Natural Resources & Manufacturing Other
6.3%
475 405 315
“There are a lot of talented people up here“
- Graham Porter, CEO, Thumbprint Education Systems
Gravenhurst’s employment base growth rate is on par with the provincial average, at 4% growth between 2015 - 2017 and the majority of our residents are educated and highly-skilled. 59% of the population aged 25-64 has some form of post-secondary education. This lends to the resulting strong numbers of workers in skilled trades, business, finance and management and nearby educational institutions are providing qualified employees to local firms looking for co-op students, interns, and graduates. Muskoka has also seen an increase of other graduates moving to the area.
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Electrical & Mechanical Engineering Gold and Silver Smithing Welding Techniques Training and Skills upgrading
• Business • Electrical & Computer Engineering • Graduate, Doctorate and Post Grad Certificates available
Doing Business Gravenhurst has become particularly attractive to young professionals. Various organizations service the Gravenhurst area to assist young professionals integrate into the community and develop social connections. These organizations have not only assisted in attracting this demographic but retaining these professionals in Muskoka. Gravenhurst has a competitive commercial tax rate and in some cases is lower than our neighbours and other similar sized municipalities. Our industrial tax rate is well below the Ontario average.
“Gravenhurst is an entrepreneurial playground” - Peter Swanek, Owner, Peter’s Players
Industrial Real Estate $350,000 (Sale) $1,500 (Lease/mth)
Commercial Real Estate $462,689 (Sale) $2,527 (Lease/mth)
$
Average Price/sqft $25 (Sale) $12 (Lease/mth)
OPEN
Business Happiness 76% (Satisfied in Gravenhurst) New Jobs Created 92 (2016-18)
New Businesses 30 (2016-18)
$
Connectivity Fibre Optic Network Free Downtown Wifi ZERO DC’s Commercial & Industrial
Competitive Tax Rates 1.88% Commercial 2.00% Industrial
Commercial Tax Rate Comparison Bracebridge
3.69
Orillia
3.53
Central Elgin
3.38
Severn Township
1.91
Gravenhurst
1.88
“Craft brewing is an interesting mix of retail, merchandising and industrial production and we do it all here in Downtown Gravenhurst” - Sam Corbeil, Co-founder and Brewmaster Sawdust City Brewing Co.
Gravenhurst is part of FedNor and the Eastern Ontario Development Fund which provides funding to the municipality for business related programs but also can provide dollars to businesses in the area directly, to assist in growth and expansion. The Town also offers a number of services and resources to our business community and administers an extensive Community Improvement Grant Program to assist with costs of construction and beautification.
“We support redevelopment and repurposing of underutilized buildings� - Council, Town of Gravenhurst
The Community Improvement Plan (CIP) Program aims to help building owners and business operators improve their property through a number of grant programs. Learn more at www.gravenhurst.ca/cip Rehabilitation / Conversion Façade Improvements Signage Structural Upgrades Planning & Development Fees Landscaping Improvements
Invest in Tourism
Entrepreneurs and investors can take advantage of the internationally recognized “Muskoka” brand and leverage the millions of visitors each year to build their client base, all year round. Gravenhurst is taking a proactive approach to Tourism Development through visitor services and tourism marketing as well as developing strong partnerships with businesses, event organizers and tourism stakeholders.
Visitor Travel Time
Annual Visitors 2.9 Million (Muskoka)
$
34%
33%
11%
Visitor Spending $391 Million (Muskoka)
30min 1-2 hrs 2-3 hrs 3-4 hrs 4+ hrs
Activities/Attractions During Visit
Visits By Season Oct - Dec 10%
Sports…
Jan - Mar 9%
3%
Shopping
43%
Outdoor Recreation
Apr - Jun 21%
Camping
55% 3%
Dinning Festivals & Events Cultural/Historic…
Jul - Sep 60%
10%
9%
39% 13% 16%
Tourism Investment Opportunities • The Resort Experience • Small Town Experience • The Cottage Experience
• Outdoor Recreation • Water-based Features & Activities • Arts, Culture & Heritage Experiences
• Tourism experiences for niche markets (i.e. agri-tourism, motor coach tour travellers, LGBTQ travelers, senior travel, family fun) • Festivals and events, specifically in the shoulder seasons (October – May), • Recreational adventure experiences (i.e. cycling, canoeing/kayaking, equestrian, snowshoeing) • Tourist destination attractions (i.e. Non-Motorized water toy rentals, indoor/outdoor bath house & spa, indoor water park, zip lines, escape room, night club, themed accommodations, etc.) • Leverage existing arts, cultural, events and entertainment assets through collaboration and packaging tourism products
Gravenhurst itself has many traditional and seasonal camping opportunities and is seeking more roofed accommodations and would benefit from an additional mid-range priced facility that could cater to families and serve as an event venue for meetings and weddings. Tourism worldwide accounts for $90.3 billion in spending each year. Muskoka sees about 3 Million Visitors each year who spend millions and stimulates our local and regional economy. Spending in the summer months is also increased by seasonal residents who escape to their cottages. While the summer season dominates the tourism calendar, winter attractions are becoming more sought after each year and present investment opportunity.
“It was our first time to Gravenhurst and we loved it� - Jack, 2018 Visitor Survey Respondant
Tourism business accounts for 39% of all of the businesses located within Gravenhurst. Support for the tourism sector comes from strong collaboration between our local tourism management and marketing organizations like the Chamber of Commerce.
Invest in Retail Gravenhurst is the third largest community in the District, both for permanent and seasonal populations. The ideal location combined with a steady population increase continues to create a demand for new and different businesses and services. Retail accounts for 21% of all businesses in Gravenhurst. We have become a destination for regional residents and day trippers looking for essentials or unique items and experiences. Consumers are not only looking for affordable and unique products and services but also luxury goods and experiences, especially if it’s food related. A Retail Mix and Gap Analysis was completed and provides insight into local consumer habits and needs. Learn more at gravenhurst.ca/retailgap
“Business during the winter months has increased over the years.” - Penny Varney, Board of Directors, Arts at the Albion
Gravenhurst’s quaint downtown recently completed a revitalization project seeing both municipal and provincial funding go towards improving its look. Downtown not for you? The Muskoka Wharf is home to more destination retail including cafes, housewares, soaps, and collectibles. A strong local shoppers base paired with a large quantity of seasonal residents and visitors means Gravenhurst is an ideal location for your next retail business opportunity.
Trade Area Consumer Base 104,974 Permanent 3,067,567 Seasonal
Total Area Spending $2.4 Billion
Local Spending Woman's Apparel 15% Entertainment 18% Footwear 17%
Hobbies, Crafts/Art 16%
Top Spending Leakages 90%
92%
90%
95%
85%
78%
Luxury Items 17% Men's Apparel 17%
Retail Investment Opportunities • Build new retail stores within existing clusters (i.e. antiques, clothing, home furnishings). • Ethnic foods and fine dinning (i.e. sushi, seafood, Indian, Portuguese, fusion, gluten/nut free, farm to table, etc.). • Create new retail concepts that will fill existing gaps (i.e. Shoe store, book store, health food store, gym, movie theater, etc.). • Develop new retail concepts that would attract locals and visitors (i.e. Eat and shop, shop and play, pop-up shops). • Collaborative approaches to retail targeting specific tourist groups (i.e. Bethune Memorial House souvenirs, tourism based products). • Leverage existing perceptions of the area through ‘cottage experience’ retailing.
Whether you are selling clothing, tasty eats or becoming part of the antique and eclectic district popping up in Downtown Gravenhurst, you will find natural partnerships and community support from fellow entrepreneurs and community organizations.
Invest in Industry
Available Land and Buildings 136,657 sqft vacant unit space (lease/sale) 243 acres vacant land for new investment Manufacturing Sector Assets 7
6
7
6
3
3 1
1
3 1
Industrial, Agriculture & Skill Trade Investment Opportunities • Enhance or support current sector clusters (i.e. aviation, beverage production, construction) • Create new local agri-food offerings (i.e. fruits, vegetables, livestock, eggs, micro greens, artisan cheeses, exotic meat, tropical green houses, candy or chocolate, honey, maple syrup) • Create new small to mid-size industrial operations (grain mill, textiles, construction materials, Ice block production, testing and quality control labs, sports equipment) • Leverage existing transportation routes and regional/provincial supply chains and industry.
Consumers want fresh and healthy ready to consume products, they want local jobs and skilled and trustworthy local craftsman. Gravenhurst has an abundance of lands zoned to support industry and trade. Local post-secondary institutions are investing in skill trades development to support the manufacturing and construction industry and the region is looking at ways to increase development in aerospace to support our growing airport. Gravenhurst zoning allows for many primary and accessory uses for industrial and commercial to provide flexibility in live-work and workshop-retail operations for our many artists and artisans. Gravenhurst and Muskoka also have a number of Employment Service organizations to assist in finding and transitioning qualified workers.
“We can only be successful if other area businesses are too.� - Alan & Robbie Irvine, Owners, The Oar and North Catering
Whether it’s food and beverage production, metal, wood or textiles, there are excellent cluster opportunities in Gravenhurst in the light, medium manufacturing and the construction sectors. Highway 11 corridor offers quick and easy access to major transportation lines in all directions, including direct routes to the Greater Toronto Area and Canada/US boarder. Our airport industrial area boasts a Maintenance and Modification cluster as well as other commercial and industrial opportunities all with in close proximity to air, rail, and truck service. The Gravenhurst Industrial Park is home to a full range of manufacturing, wholesale trade, transportation, and warehousing businesses. These businesses can play a key role in the supply chain of many new small and mid-sized operations.
Living Here
More than simply physical beauty, Gravenhurst embodies the Live-Work Lifestyle. Lower costs of living and minimal commute times translate into more disposable income to do what you love, and enjoy your extra time. Quality of life is just one of the many advantages of being located here. You can telecommute! The short travel time to Toronto allows creative class workers to easily be in office when needed or enjoy all the sites and events of the big city. Living in Gravenhurst and working in Toronto is easier and more popular than you think.
“It was so beautiful compared to where I grew up in Hungary, Gravenhurst is a real gem.” - Baya, Owner, Gem & Dia Jewellers
Outdoor living is a big part of our way of life. Gravenhurst provides year-round entertainment and recreation options
including 100`s kms of trails, lakes and waterways, golfing, spots programs, live outdoor shows, concerts and events. Residents and business owners are friendly and helpful and the community continues to grow through its strong connections and partnerships. Celebrating our culture is a priority. We are proud of our many cultural focal points, like the Gravenhurst Opera House, the Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre and Bethune Memorial House and Museum. There are a many exciting events and festivals happening all year long! Gravenhurst provides the amenities of a larger municipality while still holding on to the small town charm. Whether it be in Historic Downtown Gravenhurst or at the picturesque Muskoka Wharf, you can find artisan galleries, to home décor, to fashion boutiques and delicious food and treats and from May to October visit the Farmer’s Market with over 90 regional vendors.
Average Household Income $89,065
Average Income Per Person $42,569
Average Housing For Sale* $343,500 (SFD non-waterfront) $167,000 (Condo non-waterfront)
Average Housing For Rent $910 (Apt) $1400 (House) Building Permit Values (millions)
Residential Permits Issued 120 2014
103 2015
140
2016
149
2017
157*
2018
2014 2015 2016 2017 2018*
$36.6 $36.9 $40.2 $69.1 $56.5
*As of November 2018
“Never have I experienced a more engaged community.“ - Kelly Fallis, Owner, RS Muskoka
Gravenhurst gives more bang for your buck when it comes to housing and business investments. It is the perfect place to live and grow your business, whether you’re young and single, newly retired or have a family. As Gravenhurst grows, additional and more diverse housing will be needed. Core intensification and mixeduse developments are encouraged. Many properties in Gravenhurst are prime for redevelopment for livework and multi-rental units throughout the downtown core and surrounding neighbourhoods.
Resources & Support 275 Muskoka Rd. S Gravenhurst, ON P1P 1J1 705-687-4432 info@gravenhurstchamber.com www.gravenhurstchamber.com
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Business Networking Business Marketing Tourism Marketing Membership Perks
295 Muskoka Rd S, Gravenhurst, ON P1P 1J1 705-644-9392 info@downtowngravenhurst.com www.downtowngravenhurst.com
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Beautification Business Marketing Tourism Marketing Membership Perks
2-410 Muskoka Road South Gravenhurst, ON P1P 1J4 705 687-6350 or 1-800-461-5541 info@employmentnorth.com www.employmentnorth.com
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Employment Services Training Incentives Information & Resources Membership Perks
100 Muskoka Road S, Unit C Gravenhurst, Ontario P1P 1X2 705.242.2848 info@thenetworkspace.com www.thenetworkspace.com
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Office Space & Services Tech Resources Membership Perks Business Networking
“We appreciate all of the organizations that work to make Gravenhurst better” - Judy Rebelein, Owner, The Bakery
Find a complete list of businesses support services, networking opportunities and funding resources on our website at www.gravenhurst.ca/BusinessResources
345 Ecclestone Dr. Bracebridge, ON P1L 1R1 1-800-414-6570 general@muskokafutures.ca www.muskokafutures.ca
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Business Loans Business Mentorship Business Workshops Membership Perks
158 Manitoba St. Bracebridge, ON P1L 2E2 705-646-9021 info@muskokasmallbusiness.ca www.muskokasmallbusiness.ca
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Youth Programing Business Plan Writing Business Workshops New Business Assistance
100 Muskoka Road South, Unit D P.O. Box 524 Gravenhurst, ON P1P 1T8 705.646.9044 info@pmcn.ca - General Inquiries beam@pmcn.ca - BEAM Inquiries www.pmcn.ca
3-5 Pineridge Gate Gravenhurst, ON P1P 1Z3 (705) 687-3412 x 280 jeff.loney@gravenhurst.ca www.gravenhurst.ca
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada C.D. Howe Building 235 Queen Street, 4th Floor Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0H5 1-800-328-6189 www.fednor.gc.ca
Eastern Ontario Development Fund 1-800-267-6592ext. 224 EasternRegionBAS@ontario.ca www.ontario.ca/page/easternontario-development-fund
• Technology Grants • Business Workshops • Business Innnovation
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Information & Support Site Selection Services Settlement Services Improvement Grants Business Concierge Grand Openings
• Business Loans/Grants • Information & Support • Import/Export Services
• Business Loans/Grants • Information & Support
3-5 Pineridge Gate Gravenhurst, ON P1P 1Z3 (705) 687-3412 info@gravenhurst.ca www.gravenhurst.ca