All Posts By

Stephen Dasko

IDEA Mississauga empowering Black entrepreneurs with federal grant

By Resources

IDEA Mississauga is the proud recipient of the Federal Government’s Regional Innovation Ecosystem Fund, a program designed to support business growth, while fostering innovative regional economies.

September 4, 2025

IDEA Mississauga is excited to announce that it is a successful recipient of the Federal Government’s Regional Innovation Ecosystem Fund in partnership with Black Creek Community Health Centre, the Black Entrepreneurship Alliance (BEA) and York University. Through this fund, a total of $2.4 million in grants will be distributed, with IDEA Mississauga receiving $60,000 to support the Step-Up Program, which is a six-month program designed to help innovative and inclusive businesses overcome barriers to their growth, reach new levels of success, and drive meaningful social and environmental change.

IDEA Mississauga staff with the Black Entrepreneurship Alliance, YSpace (York University) and federal representatives.

IDEA Mississauga will be an active partner to Black Entrepreneurship Alliance (BEA) and the Black Creek Community Health Centre, providing support that is community-focused. This includes:

  • Advisory services: Support BEA in addressing unique challenges facing Black entrepreneurs
  • Community events: Support events and provide a platform for Black founders to build their network
  • Business mentorship: Provide hands-on support to help entrepreneurs achieve their goals
  • Grassroots development: Strengthen the talent pipeline for Black entrepreneurs

IDEA Mississauga has a proven track record in supporting Black-led and diverse businesses, particularly through programs like the Step-Up Program, which has been instrumental in helping diverse businesses in Mississauga overcome barriers to growth.

Funding from the Regional Innovation Ecosystem Fund will further enhance the Step-Up program, which provides entrepreneurs with access to expert training, personalized mentorship, and comprehensive resources to help underrepresented businesses expand. This investment will ensure that diverse businesses have the tools they need to scale and succeed while fostering an inclusive, thriving economy in Mississauga.

With its demonstrated success in empowering entrepreneurs from underrepresented groups, IDEA Mississauga is uniquely positioned with the tools and resources to support the Black Entrepreneurship Alliance’s work. This partnership underscores the City of Mississauga and IDEA Mississauga’s commitment to deliver meaningful impact, while prioritizing diversity and inclusion within the business community.

Elevating Black communities across Southern Ontario

Funding from the Regional Innovation Ecosystem Fund will also strengthen the Black Entrepreneurship Alliance’s (BEA) work, in collaboration with IDEA Mississauga, to support over 200 startups. Previously, through the Federal Government’s Black Entrepreneurship Fund, BEA assisted 136 ventures, 75 per cent of which were women-led. Through this support, these ventures have generated more than $46 million in revenue, raised $7.3M in funding, and created 989 jobs. These ventures have also invested a total of $525,000 in upskilling and professional development, highlighting the BEA’s success in fostering the growth of Black-owned businesses.

This new round of funding from the Regional Innovation Ecosystem Fund will build on the progress already achieved by BEA to ensure a greater reach into Black communities across Southern Ontario. The potential impact is expected to include: an increased number of Black-led ventures in tech, more traditional and consumer packaged goods, and the creation of new intellectual property and commercialization. It will also help strengthen the talent-pool and build emerging leaders, while further promoting diversity and inclusion.

About IDEA Mississauga

IDEA, powered by Invest Mississauga, brings together industry, government, education and organizational leaders to help start-ups and scale-ups accelerate ideas and commercialize solutions. IDEA offers entrepreneurs a comprehensive suite of resources to support their needs and growth, including tailored programs and services, along with a rich network of mentorship, partners and talent. From start-up to scale-up, the IDEA team is dedicated to driving innovation and turning entrepreneurs’ ideas into reality.

About the Black Entrepreneurship Alliance

The Black Entrepreneurship Alliance (BEA) was created to fill a gap in Toronto’s business ecosystem by supporting Black, underrepresented entrepreneurs. As a black-led, non-profit organization, BEA helps amplify and advance the next generation of Black entrepreneurs. Through tailored programming, bootcamps and events, BEA helps Black professionals build and grow successful ventures. Originally launched as the first Black-focused entrepreneurship program in the Jane and Finch community, BEA has since expanded its reach to the Greater Toronto Area.

September 4, 2025
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Place. People. Possibility: Imagining Mississauga’s future together

By Planning & Development, Resources

The public is invited to a free City event exploring Mississauga’s Strategic Plan through the lens of placekeeping.

September 4, 2025

What kind of city will Mississauga be in the next decade? The answer begins with us, the people who call it home.

On Monday, September 29, residents are invited to Imagine Mississauga: Place. People. Possibility., a free public City event that builds on insights gathered during the City’s 2026–2036 Strategic Plan public engagement phase. Through dialogue with expert speakers, interactive exhibits, and opportunities for residents to ask questions, this event aims to inspire conversations about Mississauga’s future and how we can best tackle the big challenges and make the most of our opportunities.

Event details

What

A free public event about the City’s 2026–2036 Strategic Plan.

Who

Featured speakers:

When

Monday, September 29, 2025
6–9 p.m. (Registration and interactive lobby displays begin at 5:30 p.m.)

Where

Living Arts Centre – Main Auditorium
4141 Living Arts Dr.
Mississauga, ON

Registration and cost

The event is free to attend. Everyone is welcome. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

Advance registration is required. Reserve your spot through the Living Arts Centre web ticket portal.

Underground parking is available at the Living Art Centre. Street parking is also available.

Those opting for public transportation can easily plan their trip with MiWay’s Trip Planner or seek assistance by calling 905-615-INFO (4636), ensuring a hassle-free journey to and from the event.

Why placekeeping matters

At the heart of this conversation is the idea of placekeeping, a concept grounded in Indigenous knowledge and lived experience. Placekeeping is a community-led approach that protects and celebrates the unique identity of a place while also acknowledging that communities are always evolving to meet the needs of residents for years to come.

2026–2036 Strategic Plan

As we imagine the next chapter of Mississauga’s story, the City is focusing on several central themes identified by Council. Over the last several months, thousands of Mississauga residents shared their opinions on priorities ranging from car dependency to climate change, housing affordability and cost of living, well-being and inclusion, economic growth and arts and culture. An expert panel has been assembled to offer their insight and spark conversations about how these priorities can be transformed into action through the City’s key strategic document.

Learn more about the City’s Strategic Plan and register.

September 4, 2025
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Public Meeting – Planning and Development Committee – 70 Mississauga Road South

By Uncategorized

Please be informed of a proposed development in your neighbourhood

70 Mississauga Road South
West of Mississauga Road South, south of Lakeshore Road West
Applicant’s Proposal: To change the zoning of three development blocks within the Brightwater Development to reflect the previously approved official plan amendment
Application submitted by: Port Credit West Village Partners Inc.
File: OZ 25-17 W1

In Person and Virtual Public Meeting
Meeting Date and Time:
Monday, November 10, 2025 at 1:30 p.m.
Meeting Place:
Mississauga Civic Centre, Council Chamber, 300 City Centre Drive

The applicant is proposing to permit an increase in dwelling units and building heights of three development blocks and to alter several by-law regulations including parking, landscaped areas, amenity space.

Council previously approved an official plan amendment (MOPA 181) on October 30, 2024 on the subject site and this zoning by-law amendment application seeks to conform to the dwelling units and building heights included in MOPA 181.

The remediation of potential on-site contamination will be evaluated through the review of these applications and addressed in the Corporate Report.

Meeting Details:
This meeting will be held in person and online. Advance registration is required to make a verbal submission at the meeting either virtually or in person Friday at 12:00 p.m. prior to the meeting date. The proceedings will be streamed live online for the public to view at the following link: http://www.mississauga.ca/portal/cityhall/council-and-committee-videos. If you wish to phone in to listen to the meeting only, please call 905-615-3200, ext. 8437 for instructions.

Options for participating in the meeting are outlined below.

Purpose of Meeting:
 For people to ask questions and share their views about the proposal
 For Planning and Development Committee to receive a report that provides information on the project, addresses issues and provides a recommendation on the proposal
 For Planning and Development Committee to make a decision about this project
The report will be available on-line one week prior to the meeting at: http://www.mississauga.ca/portal/cityhall/planninganddevelopment

For detailed information contact:
City Planner David Ferro at 905-615-3200 ext. 4554 or david.ferro@mississauga.ca
If you would like to share your views and/or be added to the official record, please contact the Planning and Building Department by Friday at 12:00 p.m. prior to the meeting date:
 by mail to 300 City Centre Drive, Development and Design Division, Mississauga ON L5B 3C1
 by email to application.info@mississauga.ca
 by visiting the following link: https://www.mississauga.ca/services-and-programs/planningand-development/development-applications/activedevelopmentapplications/developmentapplication-oz-opa-25-17-w1/

Please include your name, your address, and application number or address of the property you are providing comments on.

Written Comments:
In order to be received by Committee at the public meeting, written comments must be received no later than Friday at 12:00 p.m. prior to the meeting date. Submissions are accepted by email at deputations.presentations@mississauga.ca or by mailing the Planning and Development Committee, City Clerks Office, 300 City Centre Drive, Mississauga, ON L5B 3C1. Please include your name, your address, and application number or address of the property you are providing comments on. Written comments received before, during or after a public meeting but before a
by-law is passed receive the same consideration as verbal comments made during a public meeting.

If you wish to be notified of the decision on the proposed zoning by-law amendment and/or proposed official plan amendment, you must make a written request.

How to participate in a public meeting if you wish to make verbal submissions:

Participate Virtually
Advance registration is required to participate and/or make comment virtually at the public meeting. Please email deputations.presentations@mississauga.ca no later than Friday at 12:00 p.m. prior to the meeting date. Any materials you wish to show the Committee during your presentation must be provided as an attachment to the email. Links to cloud services will not be accepted. You will be provided with directions on how to participate from Clerks’ staff.

Residents without access to the internet can participate and/or make comment in the meeting via telephone. To register, please call Ani Grigoryan at 905-615-3200 ext. 8437 no later than Friday at 12:00 p.m. prior to the meeting date. You must provide your name, address, phone number, and application number if you wish to speak to the Committee. You will be provided with directions on how to participate from Clerks’ staff.

Participate In Person
To make a verbal submission in person, advance registration is preferred. Please email deputations.presentations@mississauga.ca no later than Friday at 12:00 p.m. prior to the meeting
date.

If you are a landlord, please post a copy of this notice where your tenants can see it.
We want to make sure they have a chance to take part.

Background Studies:
Planning documents and background material submitted in support of these applications are available for review at: https://www.mississauga.ca/services-and-programs/planning-anddevelopment/development-applications/active-development-applications/development-applicationoz-opa-25-17-w1/
Contact the city planner noted above for more information.

Planning Act Requirements:
The City will be processing the applications in accordance with the Provincial Planning Act which requires that all complete applications be processed.

The applications are now being circulated to City Departments and Agencies for technical review.A report summarizing the development and the comments received will be prepared by Planning
staff and presented at the Public Meeting listed in this Notice.

Personal Information:
Individuals should be aware that any personal information in their verbal or written communication will become part of the public record, unless the individual expressly requests the City to remove the personal information. Questions about the collection of this information may be directed to application.info@mississauga.ca or in writing to the Planning and Building Department at 300 City Centre Drive, Mississauga ON L5B 3C1.

Information about Appeals:
Application decisions can be appealed through the Ontario Land Tribunal. The applicant, a specified person, a public body, or the Minister, or those who own land subject to the application
can appeal. A person who otherwise would have an ability to appeal but the person or public body does not make oral submissions at a public meeting or make written submissions to the City of Mississauga before the proposed zoning by-law is passed and the proposed official plan amendment is adopted is not entitled to appeal the decision and may not be added as a party to the hearing of an appeal before the Ontario Land Tribunal.

General Information:
Visit Mississauga’s online Guide to City Planning and Development to learn more. It’s organized around topics we get asked most – such as What is City Planning, How Land Gets Developed and Ways to Get Involved. Visit www.mississauga.ca/city-planning-guide.

Date of Notice: August 29, 2025

September 3, 2025
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Free Confidential Paper Shredding 

By Events, Resources

Paper shredding will be available during regular business hours from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Saturday September 20th at Fewster CRC located at 1126 Fewster Dr. in Mississauga.

Residents can bring unbound paper documents such as taxes, bills, income statements and personal information.

To keep traffic flow moving quickly and efficiently, visitors will not be able to stay and watch their documents be shredded.

Along with papers, residents are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to donate to a local food bank.

Regular fees apply to all other items brought for disposal.

September 2, 2025
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Soak up the sounds of local talent in Mississauga this fall

By Events

Enjoy the Love Local Music concert series featuring live performances by local musicians and artists.

September 2, 2025

This fall, you can enjoy listening to local musicians and artists at the Living Arts Centre from September to November as part of the City’s Love Local Music program concert series. Concert goers will enjoy live performances showcasing the diverse talents that Mississauga’s music scene has to offer.

The 2025 line-up includes:

Natalie G: Music Around The World

Saturday, September 6 at 7 p.m.

From the rhythmic beats of Latin America to the soulful melodies of the Middle East and the timeless classics of Europe, this event celebrates cultural diversity through music. Audiences will enjoy a variety of styles and languages, brought to life by international instruments and guest dancers that ignite the stage with energy and passion. Get tickets

A celebration of Hip Hop & Poetry: Words. Power. Sound.

Saturday, September 27 at 8 p.m.

Join Ontario’s Poet Laureate, Matthew-Ray ‘Testament’ Jones, for an explosive celebration of music, rhyme and raw expression. This immersive event is a celebration of truth, rhythm and revolutionary thought. With guest performances, creative collaborations, interactive moments and surprises throughout. Get tickets

Shallum X’s Tour 2025

Saturday, October 4 at 8 p.m.

Step into a world where music transcends boundaries. Experience Shallum’s legacy, style, and showmanship as he fuses East and West into a genre uniquely his own. Inspired by his North American journey and travels across continents, he brings you reimagined classics, powerful instrumentals, and a musical experience like no other. Get tickets

OneWorld Peace Lumina Concert

Saturday, October 18 at 4 p.m.

Presented by OneWorld Peace Association and executed by Dolce De Soleil Music, led by Elsa Hsieh, conductor, founder, pianist and Global Peace Ambassador of the International Peace Festival. Enjoy performances by Patti Jannetta Baker, Alexis Martinez, Mykolas Savchuk, the Polish Highlanders troupe, the award-winning women’s choir and children’s choir – Youngest Peace Advocates. Get tickets

The Hustle Mississauga

Saturday, November 15 at 8 p.m.

The Hustle is an iconic concert series that has been showcasing Canada’s best new and emerging Hip-Hop, R&B, and Soul artists for 10 years. To celebrate this milestone, join us for The Hustle: Mississauga featuring performances by Roze, Imadh and Oshanna, with host Karlena Waugh and DJ savvv. Get tickets

A Night of Modern and Historic Saxophone Music

Saturday, November 29 at 7 p.m.

Join award-winning saxophonist, Carson Freeman and his band for an unforgettable night of live jazz. This exclusive concert will feature original compositions, timeless favourites and a special surprise that makes the evening one-of-a-kind. From soul-stirring solos to bold brass harmonies, guests will experience a rich blend of modern and historic jazz in an inspiring venue. Get tickets

About Love Local Music

Since 2021, Love Local Music program has created more than 80 opportunities for local musicians and helped 25 concert producers gain valuable experience through ticketed sales. Last year’s program featured performances by Fame Holiday, Five and Tens, El Ciebo, Sarah Catharine and U.N. Jefferson.

For more information and to get your tickets for the shows, visit the webpage.

Local Local Music

September 2, 2025
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Peel’s garbage exemption is coming soon

By Resources

BRAMPTON, Ont. – September 2, 2025. Peel’s garbage exemption period is coming up.

To find your garbage exemption day:

During a garbage exemption pickup:

  • You can put any amount of acceptable garbage on the curb.
  • Garbage tags are not needed.
  • Extra garbage is collected only on your garbage collection day, not on your recycling collection day.

To be picked up, an extra garbage bag cannot:

  • Weigh more than 20kg (44lbs).
  • Be larger than 66 cm (26 in) wide and 90 cm (35 in) high.
  • Be smaller than 30 cm (12 in) wide and 30 cm (12 in) high.

Find out more about Peel’s garbage exemption.

September 2, 2025
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National Day of Truth and Reconciliation Day Events

By Events, Ward 1

Join the official unveiling of Mississauga’s first National Historic Sites marker
On Thursday, September 25, Parks Canada, in partnership with the National Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada is planning an unveiling of the Nahnebahweequay plaque in Port Credit beginning at 5:30pm at Mississauga’s Marina Park. As background, the plaque focuses on Nahnebahweequay, also known as Catherine Sutton, who was born at the Mississaugas Credit Mission Village in the 1830s. She was an early advocate of Indigenous rights and her advocacy took her to meet Queen Victoria on two separate occasions. She is one of the most recognized and celebrated members of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. All are welcome to attend. More details to follow.

Learn, reflect and engage at Mississauga Celebration Square
On Tuesday, September 30, the digital screens at Mississauga Celebration Square will highlight the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action and the City’s commitment to reconciliation.

Bradley Museum Truth and Reconciliation tour
On September 30, visit the Bradley Museum to learn about the history of Indigenous Peoples in Mississauga. Staff will also share what the City of Mississauga is doing today to further the process of reconciliation and the 94 Calls to Action. Tours will run every half-hour between noon and 4 p.m. Hands-on activities are available for families to honour the children lost to the residential school system and the survivors, and to reflect on their own personal journey to reconciliation. Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are recommended to guarantee a spot. Admission is free. This program includes difficult subject matter that may be upsetting for some visitors and may not be appropriate for all ages.
Learn more

Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation flag raising and clock tower lighting
To recognize both the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day, the City will raise the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation (MCFN) flag on September 30 at Mississauga Celebration Square. The City Hall clock tower will be lit orange on the same evening.

Walking Together: A Journey for Reconciliation
Join in for a special event at The Riverwood Conservancy where all will come together to walk, learn and reflect on the path towards reconciliation. This in-person gathering aims to foster understanding, respect, and unity among all participants. Take steps towards healing and building stronger relationships with one another. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a meaningful journey towards reconciliation on Sunday, September 28, 2025 from 11am to 2pm.
Registration is necessary for participation.

2025 All-Nations Powwow on October 4
Sisters in Spirit Day (October 4) honours missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people. It’s a day to remember, raise awareness and call for justice. Join the U of T Mississauga Indigenous Centre for the 2025 All-Nations Powwow at U of T Mississauga on Saturday, October 4 from noon to 5pm. Get free tickets here
Learn more

2025 Healing and Gathering Weekend
Join Eagle Spirits for its 5th annual Healing and Gathering Weekend from September 27 to 28, 2025 from 10am to 4pm on both days. Held at the Small Arms Inspection Building Grounds, take part in two days of learning, engagement, reflection and resilience.
Learn more

August 31, 2025
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Ward 1 Community Excellence Awards

By Stephen’s Initiatives, Ward 1

Councillor Dasko Invites You to Nominate a Business or Individual for the Ward 1 Community Excellence Awards!

This year’s Ward 1 Community Excellence Awards will be held on October 23rd, 2025 at 6:30 p.m.  Entertainment will be featured!

Carmen Corbasson Community Centre
Lynn Petrescue Room, 2nd floor (elevator access)

 

Business Awards Categories

Small business owners are an integral part of our community. In addition to contributing to the local community’s unique identity and being involved locally, small business owners are job creators, providing local employment opportunities allowing local residents to work closer to home. Having multiple small businesses all striving to be unique and innovative, can result in a healthy marketplace and well-served consumers. One-of-a-kind and locally made products can attract customers to our area, bolstering tourism and contributing to our local community. These establishments benefit our local economy and help support the place we call home.

Entrepreneur of the Year Award
This award recognizes the endeavors of an exceptional individual or company who:
– creates exceptional products and services
– keep our local economies moving forward
– embodies the spirit of community
– values and demonstrates innovation

Excellence in Customer Service Award
This award recognizes a business for:
– consistently exceeding customer or guest expectations
– exceptional service standards in our community

Restaurant of the Year Award
This award is presented to a restaurant that provides:
– a most enjoyable overall guest experience
– high standards for food quality
– excellent customer service that enhances the dining experience

Arts and Community Awards Categories

The Arts & Community Awards celebrate individuals who make Ward 1 a vibrant, creative, and connected community. These awards honour exceptional contributions in the arts, volunteerism, youth leadership, and community spirit. Through these categories we recognize those who uplift others, spark creativity, and strengthen the fabric of our neighbourhoods. Whether through artistic expression, selfless service, or everyday acts of kindness, these individuals help shape a stronger, more inclusive Ward 1.

Artist of The Year Award
The Artist of the Year Award celebrates an individual whose artistic talent, creativity, and dedication have made a significant impact in our community through the arts.
Nominees should demonstrate not only artistic excellence, but also a commitment to sharing their work in ways that inspire, engage, or uplift others in Ward 1. Whether through performance, exhibitions, teaching, or community involvement, this award honours artists whose work enriches the cultural life of our neighbourhoods.
Let’s celebrate the creatives who bring colour, rhythm, and soul to our community. This award seeks to recognize:
– exceptional performances or composition
– pieces that captivate audiences with their talent
– artistic expression and creativity

Good Neighbour Award
This award recognizes outstanding contributions by an individual who positively influences their local community with:
– acts of kindness, and generosity
– community involvement and volunteerism
– assistance to neighbours in need

Volunteer of the Year Award
Our city is built by those who give their time and expertise selflessly, expecting nothing in return. This award recognizes an individual who demonstrates excellence in volunteering to make Ward 1 – a better place to live, work, and play by:
– dedication and commitment to their cause
– impacting the community
– demonstrating leadership
– supporting vulnerable populations
– enriching the culture
– community engagement

Youth Excellence Award
The Ward 1 Youth Excellence Award recognizes and celebrates the outstanding achievements and contributions of young people, ages 15 to 24, who are helping to shape and strengthen our community. Whether through creative expression, academic achievement, athletic talent, a passion for volunteerism, or inspiring leadership, this award honours youth whose efforts and accomplishments have had a positive and lasting impact in Ward 1. It’s a celebration of the young voices, hands, hearts, and intellect making a real difference where we live.

Lifetime Achievement Award (chosen by Stephen)

Please make your nominations by email to Stephen.Dasko@mississauga.ca in the following format:

Nominator Name:
Nominator Email:

Award for Nomination:
Nominee Name:
Nominee Email:
Short explanation about why you are nominating the Ward 1 resident:

Email your nomination now to stephen.dasko@mississauga.ca.

ALL NOMINATIONS ARE DUE BY OCTOBER 13th, 2025 AT MIDNIGHT. 
August 31, 2025
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