Durham Region to conduct 2026 Business Count from May through August

Durham Region will conduct its 2026 Business Count from May through August 2026, with staff visiting brick-and-mortar businesses across the region in person to collect information about business operations, including employment, growth plans and floor space.

The Region says the information is used to compile employment statistics, help plan regional services and programs, and keep regional and municipal business directories current.

Surveyors will wear navy blue Durham Region shirts and carry official photo identification cards while conducting the brief surveys.

If staff can’t reach a business during an in-person visit, the Region says they will follow up by phone, leave a paper form, or provide an online option.

The count includes home-based businesses, agricultural operations and non-profit organizations, according to the Region.

“Quality data is essential to understanding and supporting our business community,” Colleen Goodchild, Director, Community Growth, said in the Region’s announcement. She said the Business Count helps the Region plan services, guide investments and maintain up-to-date business directories.

The Region says sensitive data collected through the Business Count will be kept confidential and used only by the Region and local area municipalities.