CONNECT 2026 ~ Winter Edition

MISSISSAUGA IN 2026: TALENT, COMMUNITY & IMPACT

In This Issue: The Power of Community, Collaboration and Collective Success in a Pivotal Year

PG 4

Calling Local Professionals: Volunteer as a Career Coach and Help Shape Tomorrow’s Workforce

PG 8

Workforce Training: A Strategic Advantage for Mississauga Businesses

PG 13

CONTENTS ARTICLES

VOLUME 21 ISSUE 1 | Winter 2026

8

Calling Local Professionals: > Volunteer as a Career Coach and Help Shape Tomorrow’s Workforce

11

Escape to Unparalleled Experiences Aboard the AquaLounge!

13

Workforce Training: > A Strategic Advantage for Mississauga Businesses

14

2026 MBOT Business Awards of Excellence

22

Business Imigration - Canada and U.S. What You Need to Know Right Now

26

J D Factors Helping Companies Grow One Invoice at a Time!

< THE POWER OF COMMUNITY, COLLABORATION AND COLLECTIVE SUCCESS IN A PIVOTAL YEAR PAGE 4

IN THIS

ISSUE

4

Chair’s Message

20

Upcoming Events

7

Leadership Message

24

New Members

16

Events Re-Cap

FROM OUR CHAIR

THE POWER OF COMMUNITY, COLLABORATION AND COLLECTIVE SUCCESS

in a P ivotal Year As we welcome the new year and look ahead to the exciting opportunities the season brings, I am honoured to address the Mississauga Board of Trade (MBOT) community and our partners in this edition of CONNECT Magazine.

Stepping into the Chair position at such a pivotal time in Mississauga’s evolution is a privilege, and I am inspired by the passion of our membership, the dedication of our volunteers, and the strength of our partnerships.

Our path forward is rooted in community, collaboration and collective success.

I firmly believe that genuine progress only comes from working together. In

4

the coming year, we are committed to strengthening the vital connections that drive our economy. This means elevating our collaboration across all sectors: with the private sector, our essential community organizations, key educational institutions, and all levels of government. By forging strong partnerships and ensuring we are operating with a shared purpose, we can effectively meet both the challenges and opportunities ahead, ensuring Mississauga remains a dynamic and attractive home for businesses of every size and type.

A key part of this strategy is advocacy that drives progress.

As the trusted voice of business in Mississauga, MBOT plays an essential role in shaping the policies that impact employers, workers, and economic growth.

We will double down on our advocacy efforts, ensuring our members’ priorities - from infrastructure and talent development to navigating regulatory landscapes -are heard clearly and generate change. Our mission is to secure tangible results

ROBYN M. SACCON, CHE 2026 MBOT Board Chair Vice President, Public Affairs at BD-Canada

that foster a competitive business ecosystem for everyone, and in turn, a vibrant, growing, strong business community.

This commitment is built upon our foundation - the business leaders like you who make up our membership and is grounded in: •

Integrity in how we lead every discussion.

•

Inclusivity in who we represent, ensuring all voices are part of our success story.

•

Innovation in how we think about and solve complex municipal and economic challenges.

•

Impact in the measurable results we drive for our business community.

MBOT is dedicated to being your trusted, future-focused chamber.

Inspired by your commitment and driven by these principles of collaboration and advocacy, I look forward to a year of remarkable achievement alongside all of you. Wishing you and your teams a successful and impactful 2026! 

CONNECT | 2026 ISSUE 1

MBOT Auto & Home Insurance Program MBOT Auto & Home Insurance Program FROM OUR CHAIR

you have DoDo you have this protection? this protection?

you getting AreAre you getting these discounts? these discounts?

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CONNECT | 2026 ISSUE 1

5

FROM OUR CHAIR

2026

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

THE VOICE OF BUSINESS IN MISSISSAUGA Established in 1961, Mississauga Board of Trade proudly serves as a the Chamber of Commerce for the seventh largest city in Canada – the fourth largest city in Ontario. Mississauga Board of Trade represents all businesses in Mississauga. MBOT’s large, diverse and active membership has made us one of the most vibrant business associations in Canada. As the “Voice of Business” we advocate on policy issues that impact local business at all levels of government, and are influential in helping to shape policy decisions. MBOT also offers a wide variety of valuable business services and professional development programs, networking events and marketing opportunities, to help business grow, prosper, and get connected.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: • • • • • • • •

Robyn Saccon, BD Canada | Chair Jonathan Borrelli, KMB Law | Immediate Past Chair John McKenna, McKenna Logistics Centres | Vice-Chair Amanda Pautler, University of Toronto Mississauga | Second Vice-Chair Crystal Reedie, RBC | Treasurer Paul Hainer, Insuranceland Inc. Ritu Kohli-Sethi, Greater Toronto Executive Centre David Wojcik | President & CEO (Interim), Ex-Officio

PUBLISHER: David Wojcik President & CEO (Interim) ceo@mbot.com

DIRECTORS: • • • • • • • • • • •

Adriano Mazzorato, Kaneff Properties Ltd. Anthony Petrucci, Palma Pasta Corporation Dave Buchanan, DXC Technology Dave Chopra, HCLTech Gena Restivo, AstraZeneca Canada Iman (Amy) Issa, MHI Canada Aerospace Inc. Joanne Islip, Sheridan College Kiran Mann, OIC Foods/Brar’s Malaika Mendonsa, Doane Grant Thornton LLP Ryan O’Neil Knight, Detailing Knights Ross Thomas, TD Bank (Commercial Banking Division)

EDITOR: Katelin Mowder Marketing & Communications Coordinator kmowder@mbot.com Ann Cozzi, Document Certification & Corporate Relations Manager - Executive Assistant acozzi@mbot.com DESIGN & LAYOUT: Katika Integrated Communications Inc. www.katika.com PRINTING: Katika Integrated Communications Inc. www.katika.com

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES:

Solange Barcena - sbarcena@mbot.com

EDITORIAL INQUIRIES:

Katelin Mowder - kmowder@mbot.com

DISTRIBUTION: Katika Integrated Communications Inc. www.katika.com PHOTO CREDIT: Anthony Ferreria and Katelin Mowder, MBOT John Goldstein and Jennifer Wood, Gold Media

ADVERTISERS INDEX AquaLounge

10

Insuranceland Inc.

5

Babel Immigration Law

23

J D Factors

27

CIBC

28

Sheridan

12

HIEC

9

The Compass Food Bank

2

Hynek Financial Group

21

701-77 City Centre Drive Mississauga, ON L5B 1M5 T: (905) 273 6151 E: info@mbot.com W: www.mbot.com

mbotontario

6

© 2026. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or copied in part or as a whole, without the prior written permission of the Mississauga Board of Trade (MBOT). Advertising content and the comments, views and opinions expressed | 2026 ISSUE 1 herein are those of contributorsCONNECT and do not necessarily constitute endorsement by MBOT. Publication Agreement Number 40012444.

FROM OUR LEADERSHIP TEAM

From Uncertainty to Opportunity: HOW MISSISSAUGA BUSINESSES WILL LEAD IN 2026

Winter is an ironic season for business.

The days are short, but the to-do lists are long. Perhaps this is the best time of year to do some long-range thinking and strategic planning.

Now that the new year is upon us, we know Mississauga’s businesses are not just bracing for more snow. We are bracing for more headwinds and more uncertainty. Higher costs, fast-moving technology, talent shortages, changing customer expectations: these are not new. What is new is the way we know our members are responding to these challenges. They are leaning in, they are using collaboration, creativity, and a healthy refusal to accept the status quo.

It is precisely at this time when we need to turn these headwinds into tailwinds and take advantage of any opportunities as they arise.

At MBOT, our job is to match this energy and be relentlessly useful.

CONNECT | 2026 ISSUE 1

In 2026, that means three big priorities: First, a sharper voice for business.

Decisions on taxation, regulations, and legislation will shape your operating environment more than any single transaction you make this year. MBOT will continue to liaise with all levels of government to make sure the voice of business is practical and impossible to ignore.

Second, helping you win the talent race.

Every sector is competing for the same people. We will continue our work on talent development, information updates, skills alignment, and connections with our education partners so businesses of all sizes can find, grow, and keep great people right here in Mississauga.

Third, making it easier to adapt.

Artificial intelligence, automation, and new business models are too hot for the backburner. Through MBOT events,

roundtables, and committees, MBOT is behind you so you can focus more on concrete steps to improve productivity.

Underpinning all of this is community.

The most powerful thing MBOT offers is not a single event or program; it is access to other leaders in and out of MBOT who are dealing with the same challenges, or who are in a position to make the changes your business needs to succeed.

For this year, we invite you to do one thing: Reconnect with MBOT. We welcome all of our members’ feedback! We are here for you, our members. MBOT speaks on your behalf and schedules programming just for you. So, attend one new event, join one new conversation. The economy may be complex, but your next opportunity is probably one relationship away.

On behalf of the team and Board of MBOT, thank you for everything you do to keep Mississauga open for business, open to innovation, and open to the world. 

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MEMBER TALKS

Calling Local Professionals: VOLUNTEER AS A CAREER COACH AND

HELP SHAPE TOMORROW’S WORKFORCE

Why Students Need You

What the Experience Looks Like

Across Mississauga and the GTA, employers are feeling the pressure of a rapidly shifting labour market. At the same time, young people are navigating uncertainty — unsure of which careers exist, how to get started, or what skills the future will demand.

Volunteering as a Career Coach is intentionally simple and genuinely meaningful. A typical session lasts about 90 minutes, guided by a trained facilitator. Coaches join two to three student conversations, each about 20–30 minutes.

The Ontario Career Lab, in partnership with the Ministry of Education, is helping bridge that gap by bringing meaningful, small-group Career Conversations directly into Ontario classrooms. And right now, we are looking for local professionals to join us as volunteer Career Coaches.

Who Makes a Great Career Coach?

A Career Coach is not a guidance counsellor or a presenter.

They are simply a real person with real experience — a skilled tradesperson, business owner, technologist, manager, frontline worker, or creative professional. Anyone who has built a career path has a story worth sharing.

Recent OECD findings show why this matters: 40% of 15-yearolds are career-uncertain, and youth career expectations have barely shifted in 20 years despite significant labourmarket change. Even more striking, fewer than half of students have ever spoken with an employer by Grade 10.

Without real-world exposure, students are left guessing.

Volunteers help change that simply by showing up.

These are not presentations — they are conversations. Career Coaches talk about their day-to-day work, the skills they use, the choices that shaped their path, and the surprises along the way. Students ask questions, share interests, and reflect on what resonates. Some insights will click immediately; others will not — and that is exactly the point. The session helps students explore their values, interests, and skills while imagining what their future could look like.

The Impact of One Conversation Across the province, students consistently report feeling more confident, better informed, and more motivated after meeting Career Coaches. Volunteers often describe the experience as energizing and rewarding — a small commitment with meaningful impact.

Participation is flexible: you can volunteer for one session or several throughout the year. The impact, however, lasts much longer.

Join Us To become a Career Coach, visit OntarioCareerLab.ca. Your story can help shape Ontario’s future workforce — and it starts with just one conversation. 

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CONNECT | 2026 ISSUE 1

MEMBER TALKS

INSPIRING BRIGHT FUTURES WHAT IF MENTORSHIP STARTED WITH A CONVERSATION? The Ontario Career Lab is a bold, provincewide initiative connecting Grade 9 and 10 students with mentors from all industries and occupations for honest, small-group conversations about the world of work.

Backed by the Government of Ontario and delivered by HIEC, this program helps students build a clearer, more confident vision for life after high school—through real stories from real people, like you.

We’re now recruiting Career Coaches from across the business community to share your career journey and help students explore what’s possible.

Whether you're just starting out, leading a team, or somewhere in between—your experience matters.

CONNECT | 2026 ISSUE 1

WHY GET INVOLVED Make a meaningful difference for students in your community Showcase your industry and inspire future talent Strengthen local partnerships between education and business Contribute just a few hours of your time—online or in person

REGISTER TODAY!

Scan the QR code or visit OntarioCareerLab.ca to volunteer as a Career Coach.

OntarioCareerLab.ca 9

MEMBER TALKS

PRIVATE YACHT CHARTERS

SPECIAL MBOT PACKAGE RATES AVAILABLE AS LOW AS $99 PER PERSON!

Above the Ordinary!

10

CONNECT | 2026 ISSUE 1 DEPARTING FROM PORT CREDIT HARBOUR MARINA - MISSISSAUGA

MEMBER TALKS

Escape to Unparalleled Experiences

!

Aboard The

IMAGINE your summer event that combines sophistication, adventure, and unforgettable memories. Look no further than AquaLounge, where our Boutique Cruise Ship offers an intimate VIP setting for up to 50 guests. Whether it’s a corporate event such as team appreciation, client entertainment, executive meetings, or a special celebration with friends and family, our cruises redefine the traditional event experience.

Set sail from picturesque Port Credit with a Mediterranean feel across the shimmering open waters of Lake Ontario to Toronto's Harbourfront. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city's skyline and the lagoons of the islands. Whether you choose our sunset or daytime package, you'll be treated to an unforgettable experience on your private event to enjoy the entire ship.

What sets us apart is our commitment to flexibility and affordability to tailor your event to suit your taste, style, and budget, with a liquor licensed bar and catering services.

Our goal is to provide a memorable experience without breaking the bank, with *starting cruise packages* as low as $99+hst per person (details below). We believe everyone should have access to luxurious amenities without excessive costs. That's why we're dedicated to offering affordable packages to make your event work.

Our packages are designed to impress, and we take care of every detail so you don't have to.

We offer a "White Glove Service" where your drinks, food, and every aspect of your event is meticulously arranged and waiting for you on board. All you need to do is arrive and enjoy the experience with your guests as we've got everything else covered at a rate that is not much more than what you would spend arranging everything on your own. Some of our competitors try to make a lot of money on selling the alcohol and catering. We focus on the charter, so we charge minimal on the extras to keep your event within budget.

Our team is dedicated to delivering exceptional service and ensuring that your event is truly special. As a special offer to MBOT members, book now to receive exclusive perks and discounts. Contact us to learn more about our packages and to reserve your spot on the ultimate summer water adventure.

DON’T MISS OUT! BOOK YOUR EVENT DATE NOW BEFORE THEY’RE ALL GONE!

CONNECT | 2026 ISSUE 1

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*** STARTING PACKAGE BASED ON 3 HOUR CRUISE, AVERAGE 35 GUESTS WITH BASIC FOOD PACKAGE, SOFT DRINKS, WATERS & ICE. ALCOHOL EXTRA.

MEMBER TALKS

Workforce Training Benefits

Unlock Workforce Potential Transform challenges into growth with Sheridan’s tailored training. Build in-demand skills, stay adaptable, and accelerate performance to help your team and organization thrive in fast-changing markets.

Build Capacity, Stay Resilient Rapid, focused upskill and reskill programs to help you build capacity, boost compe��ve advantage, and adapt quickly in changing markets.

Tailored Learning, Your Way Custom programs delivered onsite, online, or hybrid — tailored to your schedule, goals, and workforce needs. From frontline staff to execu�ve leaders, we meet you where you are.

Guided Support for Max ROI Training specialists partner with you to provide strategic training solu�ons that ensure individual growth while aligning with your organiza�onal objec�ves, delivering las�ng benefits and measurable impact.

The Sheridan Advantage

Industry Aligned Instruc�on

Trusted Educa�onal Excellence

Innova�ve Design Exper�se

Connect with a Training Specialist today!

Email: workforcetraining@sheridancollege.ca caps.sheridancollege.ca/info/landing/workforcetraining 12

CONNECT | 2026 ISSUE 1

MEMBER TALKS

WORKFORCE TRAINING:

A STRATEGIC ADVANTAGE FOR MISSISSAUGA BUSINESSES In today’s economic climate, marked by uncertainty, rapid technological change, and evolving workforce needs, staying competitive means ensuring your workforce is resilient and ready to pivot. Organizations that prioritize continuous learning and skill development are better positioned to adapt, innovate and lead through change.

The Ripple Effect on Performance

Why Upskilling Matters Now The future of work is evolving faster than ever. Automation, AI, and digital transformation are reshaping roles across industries, and the skills that were essential yesterday may not be enough tomorrow. Workforce training helps organizations stay ahead by building new competencies and strengthening existing ones, ensuring teams are prepared for what’s next.

At the same time, constant change and shifting priorities are the reality for many businesses today. Targeted skill development enables employees to take on new responsibilities and respond to changing demands quickly.

Even small learning opportunities can improve flexibility, team morale, and problem-solving, qualities that help organizations maintain productivity and avoid inefficiencies during periods of uncertainty.

Workforce training closes skill gaps, fosters innovation, and develops future leaders. Teams that learn together become more adaptable and collaborative, which translates into better critical thinking, problem-solving and stronger business outcomes. For Mississauga businesses, this means staying competitive in a global economy while supporting local growth.

Sheridan Continuing and Professional Studies (CAPS) has worked with organizations across different sectors to design tailored training solutions that meet real-world challenges.

Our experience shows that when businesses invest in learning, they build resilience not just for today, but for the future.

The takeaway: in times of uncertainty, learning isn’t optional, it’s a strategic advantage. For Mississauga’s business community, upskilling is the key to thriving in a world where change is constant. Feel free to reach out to us at workforcetraining@sheridancollege.ca 

NADIA GUERRERA

Manager, Employer Services and Training Partnerships Sheridan College nadia.guerrera@sheridancollege.ca

CONNECT | 2026 ISSUE 1

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MEMBER TALKS

MISSISSAUGA BOARD OF TRADE’S

Business Awards of Excellence WEDNESDAY, MAY 6, 2026

AWARD NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN 12 CATEGORIES

14

CONNECT | 2026 ISSUE 1

MEMBER TALKS

2026 Award Categories: BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR AWARD LARGE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD EMERGING LEADER AWARD

NEW

NOT-FOR-PROFIT IMPACT AWARD INCLUSIVE EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR AWARD EXCELLENCE IN HOSPITALITY & TOURISM AWARD WOMAN OF THE YEAR – LEADING POWERHOUSE AWARD

NEW

MCCALLION COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD ENVIRONMENTAL AND SUSTAINABILITY AWARD INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY BUSINESS AWARD INTERNATIONAL TRADE AWARD

CONNECT | 2026 ISSUE 1

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EVENTS RE-CAP

EVENTS

Re-Cap

Good Morning Mississauga (GMM)

MBOT Autumn Connections:

SEPTEMBER 10, 2025

A NETWORKING LUNCH

SPONSORS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2025 SPONSORS

LY SS NG

IN CONVERSATION WITH THE HON. CAROLINE MULRONEY PRESIDENT OF THE TREASURY BOARD & MINISTER OF FRANCOPHONE AFFAIRS

ou to our monthly Good Morning OCTOBER 1, 2025 king Session. This event promises SPONSOR ions, insightful PRESENTING conversations, and

e on, m

Good Morning Mississauga (GMM) OCTOBER 8, 2025 SPONSORS

Series Sponsors: 16

MONTHLY

CONNECT | 2026 ISSUE 1

EVENTS RE-CAP

Mississauga Board of Trade Hosts CHAMBER CONNECT - CHAMBER SOCIAL NIGHT AT CCC AGM & CONVENTION OCTOBER 8, 2025

PRESENTING PARTNER

CONNECT | 2026 ISSUE 1

PROUD PARTNERS

17

EVENTS RE-CAP

MBOT Event GET A GRIP ON YOUR BUSINESS WITH EOS OCTOBER 16, 2025

MBOT Small Business Forum EMPOWERING SMALL BUSINESSES OCTOBER 23, 2025

PRESENTING SPONSOR

18

SPONSORS

CONNECT | 2026 ISSUE 1

HLY

EVENTS RE-CAP

REDEFINING LEADERSHIP: MBOT Event WOMENLEADERSHIP: AT THE REDEFINING WOMEN AT THE FOREFRONT OF CHANGE FOREFRONT OF CHANGE NOVEMBER 4, 2025

ROBYN SACCON

CINDY WATSON

DR. LISA RAMSACKAL

Vice President of Public Affairs, BD-Canada

Founder, Women On Purpose

Chiropractor, Registered Acupuncturist & Founder, Innova

SOPHIA SNIEGOWSKI BEGIDZHANOV

PAULINA MUNOZ MORLET

MALAIKA MENDONSA

Corporate Communications Officer, Musket Transport / CHET

Senior Manager Commercial Services, Women in Enterprise Banker (WE Banker), TD Bank Commercial Banking

Partner, Doane Grant Thornton LLP

PRESENTING SPONSORS

PRESENTED BY:

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2025 8:00 - 10:30 AM

Good Morning Mississauga (GMM)

HYATT PLACE TORONTO MISSISSAUGA & LUXE CONVENTION CENTRE

NOVEMBER 12, 2025 SPONSORS

Venue Sponsor:

CONNECT | 2026 ISSUE 1

Series Sponsor:

MONTHLY

19

EVENTS RE-CAP

MBOT AI Forum 2025 TRANSFORMING YOUR BUSINESS WITH AI TAKING ADVANTAGE OF AI – FROM FEAR TO ACTION NOVEMBER 26, 2025

PRESENTING SPONSOR

SPONSORS

UPCOMING Events

20

CONNECT | 2026 ISSUE 1

MEMBER TALKS

Has your employee benefits plan evolved?

Is it time for a second opinion?

ChamberPlan.ca

Hynek Financial Group P: 905-319-9999 info@hfgb.ca | www.hfgb.ca

SHARE NOW! * DISCOUNT RECEIVED ONCE PROSPECTIVE BUSINESS JOINS MBOT. CREDIT IS APPLICABLE FOR 12 MONTHS

CONNECT | 2026 ISSUE 1

21

MEMBER TALKS

BUSINESS IMMIGRATION – CANADA AND U.S. WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW RIGHT NOW

MELISSA BABEL

B.A. (Hons) LL.B, Barrister and Solicitor Babel Immigration Law

Canadian Immigration NEWS 2026 International Student Cap and Allocations Announced In 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will cap the issuance of study permits at 408,000 — comprising 155,000 new permits and 253,000 extensions — under the intakemanagement regime first introduced in 2024. Provinces and territories have been assigned specific allocations for the 180,000 permits that require a provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL), with allocation based on population and historical approval rates. Master’s and doctoral students at public institutions, primary and secondary school students, existing permit-holders extending at the same institution, and certain governmentpriority groups are exempt from the cap. The reductions reflect a shift from volume-driven growth toward 22

controlled, demand-driven intake — affecting institutions’ international enrollment strategies and increasing competition for capped undergraduate and other permit-requiring spaces. This change will also decrease the overall presence of foreign nationals with open work permits in Canada, which will have a direct impact on hiring practices for local employers.

Ontario’s Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream Suspended The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has suspended its Express Entry: Skilled Trades Stream after an internal review uncovered serious compliance issues — including “systemic misrepresentation and/or fraud.” The OINP is returning all pending applications under that stream and refunding application fees. Individuals who still wish to immigrate through OINP are being advised to submit a new Expression of Interest under other OINP streams for which they qualify.

Bill C-3 — The amended Citizenship Act – Second Generation and ‘Lost Canadians’ The Canadian government has introduced Bill C-3, the Amended Citizenship Act. This bill amends the “first-generation” limit for citizenship by descent to only children born abroad to a Canadian parent who themselves

were born in Canada (or naturalized before the child’s birth). If the parent was also born abroad, the next generation lost the entitlement. Bill C-3 removes that “cut-off.” The new law effectively restores citizenship rights to many “lost Canadians” and their descendants who were previously excluded.

Who is eligible (or becomes eligible) under Bill C-3 •

Any person born or adopted outside Canada, whose parent is a Canadian citizen but was also born or adopted abroad — i.e. “secondgeneration (or later) born abroad”.

This includes people who previously fell under the “first-generation limit” (so-called “lost Canadians” and their descendants), including those born before Bill C-3’s coming into force.

•

For children born or adopted abroad after Bill C-3 comes into force: the Canadian parent (who was born or adopted abroad) needs to show a “substantial connection” to Canada.

Specifically — at least 1,095 days (3 years) of physical presence in Canada, cumulative, at any time before the child’s birth or adoption

•

For children born or adopted abroad before Bill C-3’s coming into force (i.e. older “lost Canadians”), citizenship by descent will be granted automatically — regardless of any prior presence in Canada by their Canadian parent.

CONNECT | 2026 ISSUE 1

MEMBER TALKS

CORPORATE IMMIGRATION

U.S. IMMIGRATION

INDIVIDUAL IMMIGRATION

GET

CLARITY IN IMMIGRATION WITH MELISSA BABEL Babel Immigration Law is a boutique corporate immigration law firm serving small and medium sized business in Canada and the U.S. We provide smart, strategic advice for our clients who want to live, work, study and do business on both sides of the border.

BOOK A CONSULTATION:

info@babelimmigrationlaw.com

•

The amendments also cover adoptees: a child adopted abroad by a Canadian citizen now qualifies under the same descent-bycitizenship rules as biological children — whether they are firstor later-generation, provided the parent meets the connection requirements if applicable.

This is a welcome re-opening of access to Canadian citizenship for many people who feel a strong tie to the country and who were previously excluded from being recognized as Canadian citizens.

U.S. Immigration NEWS

905-847-9525

as of November 27, 2025. Officers are now formally authorized to consider “negative, country-specific factors” linked to the 19 countries designated “high-risk” under a 2025 Presidential Proclamation. These factors include concerns such as weak identitydocument systems, lack of informationsharing with the U.S., and heightened terrorism-related indicators.

The policy gives USCIS adjudicators greater discretion to deny or delay applications if country-specific security risks are present — even if the individual applicant has no personal derogatory history. The aim is to tighten vetting standards while broader security reviews are underway.

New USCIS national-security measures announced on November 27, 2025

Most Immigration Categories are expected to be affected

Following the November 26, 2025 shooting of two U.S. National Guard service-members — allegedly by an Afghan national — USCIS announced immediate implementation of enhanced national-security screening protocols for all applications filed or pending

It is expected that applicants for Adjustment of Status (Green Card applicants) from one of the 19 designated countries may face extended background checks, RFEs, or delayed adjudication.

Family-based, employment-based, and humanitarian AOS cases are all

CONNECT | 2026 ISSUE 1

babelimmigrationlaw.com

included. Refugee and asylum claimants already undergo intensive vetting, but adjudicators may now rely more heavily on country-specific risk factors.

Humanitarian programs, such as TPS, Parole and Special Immigrant categories as well as work authorization (EAD), student visas (F and M) and exchange visitors (J) are also expected to be impacted. https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/ news-releases/uscis-implementsadditional-national-security-measuresin-the-wake-of-national-guardshooting-by 

23

NEW MEMBERS LISTING

Welcome

NEW MEMBERS OF MBOT

Avondale Foodworks

Ikon Event Space

BIZTBAA Inc.

LD Human Resources

Budding Genius Academy

Poly Tech Talent

Charles Deng

Reprodux

Darlington Dibie Global Leadership Consulting

Rogers Sports & Media Mississauga

Dixie Auto Glass

Safety First Training LTD.

DXC Technology Canada

Scotiabank Commercial Banking

ELS Partners

Secrecy Evolution Inc.

Hickory Dickory Decks Mississauga Northwest & East

SPC Home Solutions

Hint Hunt Escape Games HR Covered

24

TEAM IMTIAZ VinWorld Mathnasium of Erin Mills

CONNECT | 2026 ISSUE 1

MEMBER TALKS

CONNECT | 2026 ISSUE 1

25

MEMBER TALKS

J D Factors helping companies grow

one invoice at a time!

For many startup companies, the journey from concept to operation is filled with excitement, ambition, and hope. Yet, it often takes only a few words to shatter these dreams with phrases like “You’re too new for us to fund” or “We need two years of financial statements”. These common responses from traditional lenders place enormous pressure on entrepreneurs who are simply trying to take their first steps. In these times, quick access to funds with factoring solution means companies can make payroll on time, pay for fuel and utilities, and secure the supplies they need to keep operations running smoothly. Whether it’s purchasing raw materials from a global vendor, paying the insurance provider or acquiring finished goods for distribution in Canada, reliable cash flow allows young & growing businesses to stay competitive and responsive.

The financing solution:

UPJIT KAUR KANSAL

Business Development Officer J D Factors Corporation 416-706-8165 ukansal@jdfactors.com

J D Factors offers one of the most effective financing tools for growing companies: Premium Non-Recourse Factoring. This solution helps businesses access the money they’ve already earned without waiting 30, 60, or 90 days for customers to pay. Instead, startups can receive funding within 24 hours of delivering their product or service. Even more valuable, if an approved customer fails to pay for credit reasons, J D Factors assumes the risk at no additional cost. For a startup, this level of protection and cash flow stability is not just helpful, it’s essential for survival & long-term growth.

In a world where financial institutions often focus on limitations, J D Factors has been focused on possibilities for over 35 years. Our flexible, dependable factoring solutions empower startups to bring their plans to life one invoice at a time.

We understand that startups drive innovation, create jobs, and fuel economic growth, and they deserve financial partners who believe in their potential, regardless of how new they are. By removing traditional barriers, we allow business owners to focus on what truly matters: delivering excellent products and services to their customers.

A Simple Process: 1.

We review the credit of the customer you want to work with to pre-approve them

2.

You deliver complete purchase order: product or service

3.

You send J D Factors your invoice, purchase order, and a proof of delivery/completion

4.

We verify the invoice with your customer & then advance the funds to you

5.

Your customer pays us in 30, 60, or 90 days & we take our fee from that payment. 

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MEMBER TALKS

Since 1989 • Cash for Invoices in 24 Hours

WHAT OUR FACTORING PROGRAMS DO FOR OUR CLIENTS:

• No Application fees or hidden fees • Customized low rates • Free credit checks on your customers

• Improve Cash Flow and

• Non recourse Program (Credit Guarantee)

Reduce Credit Risk

• Reduce employee workload by outsourcing credit checking, invoice processing and collection duties

• Receive invoice payments by direct deposit when money is most needed

• Have ready and available cash to pay suppliers and efficiently grow the business

• Dedicated Account Executives • Real Time Online Access

J D Factors specializes but is not limited to the following industries:

• Transportation • Manufacturing • Oil and Gas Services • Temporary Staffing

Your Flexible Finance Partners www.jdfactors.com

1-800-263-0664

MBOT Members since 2005!

315 Matheson Blvd E. Mississauga, ON L4Z 1X8

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Strategic wealth planning for business owners For some business owners, the term financial planning is shrouded in mystery, while others may view it as unnecessary or too complicated. Whatever the case may be for you, it’s important to know that a financial plan is an essential roadmap for your business, guiding you toward your goals with purpose and clarity.

Financial planning goes beyond budgeting or saving—it encompasses tax and investment planning, risk management, estate planning and retirement preparedness. Whatever meaningful milestones you’re working toward for your business, a financial plan keeps you focused, accountable and on track to achieve what matters most.

With over 30 years of investment experience, Jeanette Power and her team have been providing business owners and their families with the tools they need to understand the intricacies of wealth management. They know that as a business owner, you’re ambitious, passionate and have a keen eye for opportunity. Let our range of experts work with you to provide integrated business solutions that reflect your vision for your business and personal financial objectives.

Connect with me to learn how I can support you and your business.

E. Jeanette Power, EPC, Senior Wealth Advisor The Power Investment Team 905 804-2240 | jeanette.power@cibc.ca www.thepowerinvestmentteam.ca Income Replacement | Business Transition Planning | Individual Pension Plans Tax Reduction Strategies | Retirement Income Planning

CIBC Private Wealth consists of services provided by CIBC and certain of its subsidiaries, including CIBC Wood Gundy, a division of CIBC World Markets Inc. The CIBC logo and “CIBC Private Wealth” are trademarks of CIBC, used under license. “Wood Gundy” is a registered trademark of CIBC World Markets Inc. If you’re currently a CIBC Wood Gundy client, contact your Investment Advisor.