Oro-Medonte Business Breakfast Brings the Business Community Together

By Township of Oro-Medonte - Mar 17, 2026

Township News and Notices

The Township of Oro‑Medonte is pleased to invite local business owners, entrepreneurs, and community partners to Oro‑Medonte Connects: Business Breakfast & AI Insights, a morning event focused on connection, collaboration, and learning.

This business breakfast will bring together Township staff, members of Council, and local and regional business support partners for an opportunity to connect with the business community and share updates on initiatives that support economic development in Oro‑Medonte.

The morning will begin with a breakfast and networking. Attendees will then hear updates from the Township and partner organizations, highlighting programs, services, and upcoming projects relevant to local businesses. Then a break with another networking session, giving attendees time to meet fellow business owners, engage with Township representatives, and strengthen relationships within the local business community.

Following, participants are invited to take part in a hands‑on workshop focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for businesses. This session will provide a practical, approachable introduction to AI tools and how they can be used to improve efficiency, enhance customer engagement, and support business growth. No prior AI experience is required (More information below)

This event is designed to be friendly, inclusive, and informative, offering something for business owners at every stage—from home‑based and small businesses to larger organizations.

Event Details

📅 Date: Wednesday, April 15
🕗 Time: Doors Open 7:30am
📍 Location: Hardwood Ski & Bike
💼 Who should attend: Local businesses, entrepreneurs, and community partners

Please RSVP by April 10. Registration is hosted by our partner Orillia & Area CDC:

Register Now!

For questions, please contact the Economic Development division business@oro-medonte.ca or visit the Township’s website.

Workshop Details

AI Insights: Cutting Through the Hype for Real Business Results

Artificial intelligence is everywhere right now, but much of the conversation is filled with hype, confusion, and unrealistic expectations. In this practical session, AI & Marketing Trainer, Professor and Speaker Emily Baillie will share clear, real-world insights on how businesses are actually using AI today to improve productivity, decision-making, and marketing. Attendees will learn where AI can add real value, where human judgment still matters, and how to start experimenting with AI tools in a practical and responsible way.

Key Takeaways:

Cut through the AI hype and understand what these tools can realistically do for businesses today.
Discover practical ways AI can support marketing, planning, research, and everyday tasks.
Learn how to experiment with AI tools responsibly without risking quality or accuracy.
Walk away with simple ideas you can try immediately to save time and work more efficiently.

Emily Baillie, a local entrepreneur, operating her home-based business Compass Content in Oro-Medonte. Emily is a digital marketing and AI strategist, trainer, and speaker who helps organizations use AI in practical, responsible ways. She has trained more than 4,000 professionals across Canada and teaches marketing and artificial intelligence at McMaster University. She has also appeared on CBC News Network as a commentator on artificial intelligence. She believes that technology should work for humans, not the other way around.