Businesses in Quinte West are demonstrating encouraging resilience and optimism, according to newly released results from the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) Business Confidence Survey. Local respondents report slightly higher confidence levels than the provincial average in both the Ontario economic outlook and their own organizational performance.
The survey, which included 144 respondents from the Quinte West Chamber of Commerce, highlights that while uncertainty remains, local businesses are maintaining a positive outlook, particularly when it comes to their own operations.
Local Confidence Outpaces Ontario Average
In assessing Ontario’s economic outlook, 18% of Quinte West respondents reported confidence, compared to 23% across Ontario, while a larger share locally identified as neutral (32% vs. 25% provincially).
More notably, confidence in their own organizational outlook is stronger locally, with 55% of Quinte West businesses reporting confidence, exceeding the Ontario average of 52%.
“This data reflects a business community that is both realistic about current challenges and confident in its ability to move forward,” said Suzanne Andrews, CEO of the Quinte West Chamber of Commerce. “Seeing 55 per cent of our businesses express confidence in their own operations; outpacing the provincial average, speaks to the strength of our local entrepreneurs, their adaptability, and the supportive environment we continue to build here in Quinte West.”
Strong Business Fundamentals Driving Optimism
Among Quinte West businesses reporting optimism about their own outlook:
- 68% cite strong demand for their products and services
- 34% point to buy-local and travel-local initiatives
- Others highlight technology adoption and workforce strengths as key contributors
Looking ahead, businesses in Quinte West project continued growth, with 44% expecting revenue growth in the next 12 months, ahead of the provincial average of 40%.
“This level of projected growth aligns with what we’re seeing across Quinte West despite economic challenges,” said Linda Lisle, Manager of Economic Development and Tourism for the City of Quinte West. “Our community continues to attract investment, support local entrepreneurs, and build on key sectors that are driving expansion. The confidence expressed in this survey reinforces that Quinte West is not only resilient but positioned for sustained economic growth.”
Challenges Remain, But Outlook Is Positive
Businesses continue to face economic pressures, with top concerns including:
- Rising cost of living (73%)
- Inflation (63%)
- Increasing costs of inputs and operations (55%)
Despite these challenges, local businesses are showing resilience, with performance indicators such as revenue growth and expansion tracking closely with or exceeding provincial averages.
“Quinte West businesses continue to demonstrate remarkable resilience,” said Jeff McKerracher, Board Chair of the Quinte West Chamber of Commerce. “Despite ongoing economic pressures, our local business community is leaning into innovation, strong customer demand, and a commitment to growth. The fact that confidence in their own operations is higher here than across Ontario should give our entire region confidence in the direction we’re headed.”
A Resilient and Forward-Looking Business Community
The findings reinforce Quinte West’s reputation as a resilient and opportunity-driven business environment. With a majority of businesses expressing confidence in their own outlook, and slightly outperforming provincial benchmarks—Quinte West is well-positioned for continued growth.
About the Survey
The Ontario Chamber of Commerce Business Confidence Survey captures insights from businesses across the province. The Quinte West data represents responses collected through the Quinte West Chamber of Commerce and reflects the perspectives of local business leaders.
