Newsletter - October 8, 2026
Dear Oakville Friends and Neighbours,
I wanted to take a moment to send a few updates and to wish you and your loved ones well as we head into Thanksgiving weekend.
Over the last year, our government has taken a proactive approach to building a stronger, more resilient, and more diversified Canadian economy – one that delivers opportunity, security, and prosperity for Canadians.
We are standing behind the workers, businesses and industries impacted by U.S. tariffs, with nearly $32.5 billion in support available across the country with a range of initiatives to address:
➤ Business Growth and Adaptation
• Regional Tariff Response Initiative (Pivot Projects) - up to $1 million in non-repayable contributions, or $1 million to $20 million in repayable contributions to help adapt to tariffs.
• Pivot to Grow Program - up to $5 million to help support businesses purchase equipment or pivot their projects.
➤ Cash Flow and Operations
• Regional Tariff Response Initiative - up to $2 million to help businesses' cash flows and make them less vulnerable to trade disruptions.
• Canada Strong Diversification Fund - $10 million to $30 million to help companies hit by tariffs keep up with ongoing maintenance on their equipment and facilities.
• Pivot to Grow Program (Liquidity Stream) - up to $5 million to help businesses cover a cash shortfall caused by tariffs within the next 12 months.
➤ Workforce Support
• Workforce Retention and Retraining Program combines enhanced Employment Insurance Work-Sharing flexibilities with the Worker Retention Grant to help businesses and workers avoid tariff-related layoffs.
➤ Industry-Specific Programs – for softwood lumber, forestry, steel and aluminum.
To learn more about all available programs and support or to explore these, and other measures, click here. My office is also available to assist with questions.
Oakville is home to businesses of all sizes, and I know that changes in the global economy are impacting here in our community. Our businesses are facing new challenges and uncertainty. These initiatives will help Oakville’s workers to acquire new skills and help our local businesses retool their production and diversify their products, while spurring more domestic demand for Canadian businesses.
At the same time, we need to prepare young Canadians for the opportunities that will come with building Canada’s future. Through the new Team Canada Strong Youth Placements program, young people can access paid, entry-level work placements of up to four months in trades-related occupations, helping them to gain practical experience, build professional connections and take their first steps toward an apprenticeship and a long-term career.
Expressions of Interest from employers are open to October 23, 2026, at 7:00 pm Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). More information can be found at Canada.ca.
Additional supports will help apprentices as they continue their training, including a new $5,000 completion bonus for eligible Red Seal trades and a $400 weekly Apprenticeship Training Grant, in addition to Employment Insurance, for eligible apprentices completing required technical training.
I will continue to ensure that I represent Oakville East constituents and serve as your voice in Ottawa.
All my very best for the Thanksgiving weekend.
Sincerely yours,
Hon. Anita Anand,
Member of Parliament, Oakville East
National Day of Truth and Reconciliation
Last Wednesday morning at sunrise, I joined Jody Harbour and Grandmother’s Voice for a reflection on Truth and Reconciliation.
We honoured the children who never returned home, survivors, their families, and all those impacted by the legacy of residential schools. We also sang songs for the children and discussed how we can continue the work of Truth and Reconciliation together.
Oakville Hospital Foundation's 13th Annual Oakville Diwali Gala
Such a joy to join our community last week for the Oakville Hospital Foundation's 13th Annual Oakville Diwali gala! A wonderful evening celebrating culture, community and the spirit of giving, all in support of Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital. Grateful to all of the volunteers and supporters in our Oakville community.
Diplomat Magazine
For more than 30 years, Diplomat Magazine has brought together voices from Canada and the diplomatic community to examine the forces shaping our world and our place within it. I was glad to join its latest issue launch and recognize the writers, editors and contributors who make that exchange possible.
United Nations General Assembly
This week, I am at the United Nations General Assembly, meeting with partners from around the world and representing Canada on the global stage.
Prime Minister Mark Carney and I are focused on strengthening Canada at home, building the relationships we need abroad and creating more opportunities for Canadians.
Carleton University's Norman Paterson School of International Affairs
Last week, I was pleased to join NPSIA for a conversation about Canada’s role on the world stage and our work to strengthen Canada’s place in a changing world.
Constituency Office Services
My Constituency Office on Robinson Street is always available to assist with any issues you are having with federal government agencies.
If you are having trouble processing an immigration application, getting your passport, or even having issues with your taxes — my wonderful staff is always there to help!
We offer assistance with:
1. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
2. Service Canada
3. Canada Revenue Agency
4. Passport Canada
5. Canada Border Services Agency
6. Immigration Refugee Board of Canada
7. Veterans Affairs Canada
8. Birthday, anniversary and commemorative certificates from myself or Prime Minister Carney
You can also contact my Constituency Office to share feedback about any policy issues, request a Canadian flag or pin, or connect about a local event.