Catherine Bristow knows businesses aren’t just spreadsheets — there are people behind the numbers. That’s why she positioned her business to be more interactive. Before launching Cat May CPA Professional Corporation, which now operates remotely, she only intended to serve clients as their year-end accountant. “It is a great advantage for business owners to have…
Whether your bike is your main form of transportation or you ride it recreationally, Paul Belanger and Thomas Hulton, the new co-owners of The Bike Stop of Orillia, want to help you get the most out of your cycling experience. “The Orillia Area Community Development Corp. (CDC) was instrumental in introducing this opportunity and helping…
WHEN YOUR BUSINESS SUCCEEDS, SO DO WE. THANK YOU! PAGE 13 Showing appreciation for the businesses, people, and service providers who make our community great. OFFICIAL WINNER SELECTIONS
They serve you food, sell you cars, provide shelter to those in need and promote the area to tourists, and on Wednesday night, they were in the spotlight. The Orillia District Chamber of Commerce held its annual Business Achievement Awards at the Hawk Ridge Golf and Country Club, where 14 honours were handed out. “This…
For many artists, their work is, above all else, a labour of love. That doesn’t mean they can’t turn that passion into a viable business. Fifteen local artists took part in Artrepreneur, a 13-week program that culminated in an expo Thursday night at the Orillia Opera House. “A lot of people think arts and culture…
In 2018, Beth realized she needed more support in order to sustain her growth. She approached the Orillia Area CDC for help, looking for direction and financing advice. The CDC provided Beth with the resources she needed to find, and applied for their Community Capacity Building Fund grant. With the support and guidance from the…
When Jack Johnson applied for a job at a local wellness studio, he was asked one critical question: “Where do you see yourself in five years?” “I responded, ‘I see myself in your shoes,” recalls Jack. Little did he know that his response was just what the owner, Amanda, was looking for. Within a few…
Starting a business in an already crowded industry can be daunting for some. For Brandon Peacock, it was an exciting opportunity to carve out his niche and break away from the crowd. Unlike most gyms, Peak Performance is a studio focused on functional fitness, quality movement, and elite personal training. Being a former employee…
“Sustainability isn’t a buzz word or the latest trend – it’s a way of life. The way I live my life and the way I run my business.” Allison Abbott, owner of The Dragonfly Room, didn’t always have a choice in the products she used at work or the way in which they were disposed…
Tiffany Denena never though she’d be a business owner, but after 13 years of working at MasterLube Rust Check in Orillia, she took ownership – all with the help of the Orillia Area Community Development Corp. (CDC)
