Economic Development eNews | February 22, 2022 |
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Above photo: Enjoying some cookies are Krista's sons, from left, Jack and Owen Gill and son-in-law Sean Perrin. |
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Area Cookie Entrepreneur excited to expand '23 & Co.' |
FORFAR - Krista Gill's delicious small-batch cookies make you stop and take notice.
Why? They are big and bold with a blending of unique flavours inspired by family members and fond memories - many about hockey. Some have peanut butter cups on top, or sponge toffee or mint patties. Each unique recipe has its own name.
Krista's new specialty cookie business - 23 & Co. - is off to a great start. After just one year in business, she is already ramping up production. A new, larger oven has just arrived and Krista is now setting up base for her business in the Forfar Dairy in Forfar.
"It's my turn to chase my little cookie dream," says Krista, who lives in the Rideau Lakes area on Lake Opinicon with her husband Todd Gill, now retired famous Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman and Cardinal native. Todd played in the NHL for nearly two decades followed by successful 13-year coaching career.
Krista honours Todd's jersey number (23) in the name of her business because he inspired her to create her own flavour combinations. She started baking and collecting cookbooks more than 30 years ago when Todd was playing in the NHL and they were raising their four children. Creating the perfect chocolate chip cookie - the "OG" or the "Original." -was due to Todd's enjoying a really good cookie as part of a game day ritual.
"It all started with that and expanded from there. My cookies are based on family stories, fun and sport," she says.
Other cookie combinations have followed that are unique to the people who inspired them, including yummy creations for all of her kids and her dad. For example there is the CCM - Classic Chloe McKenna (her daughter) with the York peppermint patty on top. Or her youngest son Jack's half fudge and half chocolate chip. It is the JT.
"Every one has a story behind it," says Krista. "The combinations are endless." She also prides herself on using top notch ingredients.
"People are more interested in where their products come from as well. There has been a real shift in that direction."
23 & Co. cookies can be found at various locations in Leeds Grenville, including Mrs. McGarrigle's Fine Foods in Merrickville and Kilborn's on the Rideau. Krista's slogan "Baked by the Lake" comes from the business originating at Lake Opinicon.
Krista was baking at the Two Rivers Food Hub in Smiths Falls but she is now bringing production closer to home. The Forfar location has been purchased by Matthew McShane, who is relocating his Sunflower Bake Shop business from Perth. They will share the space. Cheese will continue to be sold at the location along with baked goods.
"I've been very excited about the response from the community." Krista says of her success to date. "I've been thinking of this (business) for my whole married life. I love it."
Learn more about 23 & Co. on Krista's Facebook and Instagram pages. You can reach out by direct message on both of these pages.
If you wish to place an order you can send Krista an email or give her a call at 613-213-3270. Krista also participates in area farmers' markets and continues to provide a delivery service. |
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Aerial and Zipline Adventure Park Reopening on Parkway this season |
MALLORYTOWN - Ziplining, treetop and forest adventure is returning to this region.
Treetop Trekking 1000 Islands is opening in mid-May for a full season of taking adventure and outdoor discovery to new heights. It will offer favourite adventures like Treewalk Village, Discovery Courses, Zipline and Aerial Game Treks.
The St. Lawrence Parks Commission (SLPC) has engaged highly-experienced aerial adventure experts Treetop Trekking Group to be a third-party operator. The location formerly known as Skywood Eco Adventure has been closed for the past few years.
Treetop Trekking is a Canadian company operating 12 adventure parks in Ontario and Quebec. They designed Skywood for its initial 2016 opening. Treetop Trekking is considered a leader in the field.
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"The reopening is great news for the Township of Front of Yonge and the entire region," Leeds Grenville Warden Roger Haley said when the announcement was made earlier this month.
"The partnership created by the St. Lawrence Parks Commission with the new operators will certainly complement the activities around Brown's Bay, increase tourism and add jobs to our area," the Warden said.
Treetop Trekking Group Marketing Director Mike Stiell said the park will offer a variety of activities for all ages, including night treks, group and team-building programs. Visit their website for more information and updates on the park reopening. |
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Ontario continued easing public health measures on February 17 th with the removal of capacity limits for many businesses where proof of vaccination is required, these include:
- Restaurants, bars, and other food or drink establishments without dance facilities
- Non-spectator areas of sports and recreation facilities, including gym
- Cinemas
- Meeting and event spaces, including conference centres or convention centres
- Casinos, bingo hall and other gaming establishments
- Indoor areas of setting that choose to opt-in to proof of vaccination requirements
Eligible businesses who were affected by the modified Step Two closure are encouraged to apply for the Ontario Small Business Support Grant – see the funding section below for more details.
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Last Call for Free Digital Support for your Business!
The Counties Economic Development Office has received funding to keep Digital Services running through until March 25th. Place your order from the Digital Menu and access FREE digital support before they are gone. Visit our website for full program details or to book a FREE consultation today! |
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Learn more by contacting: Shelbi McFarlane, Business Development Officer, United Counties of Leeds and Grenville. Ph: 613-342-3840 ext. 5361 | Toll free: 1-800-770-2170 ext. 5361 | email
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First-ever Front of Yonge Business Recognition Awards: Nominations open
The first Township of Front of Yonge Business of the Year Breakfast is being held April 13 with guest speaker the Honourable Hugh Segal, a political strategist, author, commentator, academic and former senator. He served as Chief of Staff to Ontario Premier Bill Davis and later to Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney.
Two awards are being presented:
- Business of the Year
- New Business (under 5 years)
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Nominations are open and should be submitted by March 23rd. Nomination forms can be emailed or dropped off at the township office.
Attendees of the breakfast event must register in advance by phone at 613-923-2251 or email.
WHEN: Wednesday, April 13: Registration at 7:30 a.m. Breakfast is at 8 a.m. followed by the presentations. COVID-19 protocols are in place and proof of vaccination is required.
WHERE: Mallorytown Legion, 13 Quabbin Road, Mallorytown.
COST: $10
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Eastern Ontario Development Fund applications open tomorrow
The Eastern Ontario Development Fund provides support for projects and investments to businesses, municipalities and not-for-profit organizations for economic development in Eastern Ontario.
The funding, complementary services and support are for:
- create jobs and build talent
- attract and encourage private sector investment
- lead to business growth and broad positive economic impacts
- encourage innovation, collaboration and cluster development
For more information, review the eligibility checklist on the EODF webpage. Additional assistance is available from Denis Lapierre, Senior Business Advisor with the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, by email.
Applications opened: February 9
Eligibility checklists: Recommended before April 7
Submission Deadline: April 21
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Ontario Small Business Relief Grant
The Ontario Small Business Relief Grant provides a one-time payment of $10,000 to eligible small businesses that have been required to close indoor operations as a result of the province’s modified Step 2 restrictions that came into effect on January 5, 2022.
Eligibility
To receive the grant, a small business identified from the eligible list below must:
- have been required to close due to public health orders that took effect at 12:01 a.m. on January 5, 2022
- have had fewer than 100 employees as of December 31, 2021
- have been an active business as of January 14, 2022
Newly established and newly eligible small businesses will need to apply for the grant.
Eligible small businesses include:
- restaurants and bars
- facilities for indoor sports and recreational fitness activities (including fitness centres and gyms)
- racing venues, casinos, bingo halls and gaming establishments
- museums, galleries, aquariums, zoos, science centres, landmarks, historic sites, botanical gardens and similar attractions
- performing arts venues and cinemas
- meeting or event spaces
- tour and guide services
- conference centres and convention centres
- driving instruction for individuals
- before- and after-school programs
The deadline for applications is Friday, March 11th.
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Celebrate Strong Female Business Leaders
International Women's Day (IWD) is celebrated around the world. It recognizes and celebrates women’s accomplishments and the work that still needs to be done for equality. The Leeds Grenville Small Business Centre has been celebrating IWD for over a decade highlighting female entrepreneurs and celebrating women in business.
This year's theme is #BreaktheBias. The keynote is Suzan Hart, an inspirational speaker, master trainer, and author known for her breakthrough strategies designed to help you reset your thinking.
Suzan will speak about challenges that women of other cultures face running a business and the challenges of women in general. She will provide attendees with the tools to share their stories as females so that they are showcased at their best. The Lifetime Achievement Award is also being presented.
WHEN: Tuesday, March 8, 3-5 p.m.
COST: $40
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1000 Islands Gananoque Chamber of Commerce International Women's Day
Join the 1000 Islands Gananoque Chamber of Commerce for its Third Annual International Women's Day Event with the theme #BreakTheBias. The Keynote Speaker Ingrid Gayle, Founder of Girl Boss Chess. The line up of inspirational local women from the region include; Emily Prout, Founder of Arrow it Forward, A / Sergeant, Lynsay Molleson of the Gananoque Police Service, Angie Fodey, Firefighter from the Township of Leeds & the 1000 Islands and Heidi Linckh, co-owner of the 1000 Islands Tower.
WHEN: Tuesday, March 8, 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon via Zoom
COST: $25, which includes a $25 purchase at Beggar's Banquet Books plus a suggested reading list for self learning
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Leeds Grenville Small Business & Trade Show exhibitor spaces still open
This three-day event hosted by the Ontario Approved Professional group is returning to show support for local small businesses, skilled trades and professionals.
Booth spaces will be assigned on first-confirmed basis. Vendors must complete the registration form. Final confirmation will be given a month prior to the event. If you have any questions, suggestions, or concerns, contact event coordinator David Annable at 613-865-8999 or via email.
WHEN: Thursday, March 24 to Saturday, March 26
WHERE: Leo Boivin Community Centre, Prescott
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Workshops, Seminars and Webinar Library |
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Add Your Voice to the Immigration Strategy
The St. Lawrence-Rideau Immigration Partnership is seeking engagement and input from partners and the broader community (including immigrants, service providers, community agencies, government representatives, employers and interested community members) to ensure the plan reflects community priorities and resources.
How to Participate
Leeds Grenville residents, organizations, and municipalities are encouraged to attend a virtual focus group. Community Consultation session dates:
- Wednesday (tomorrow), February 23, 7-8:30 p.m.
- Monday, February 28, 2-3:30 p.m.
For more information, questions, or assistance, please email Lauren.
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Know Your Target Audiences by Tourism Product, Sessions 1 & 2.
Destination Ontario and Environics Analytics analyzed 16 Ontario tourism product categories to understand the types of domestic (Ontario) consumers that frequent these different experiences across the province. Over two sessions, we will share these findings to better equip tourism businesses/operators to plan and target current and potential new, local and non-local audiences.
Join one or both sessions (by separate registrations) as Larry Filler, Senior Vice President and Practice Leader, Environics Analytics, delivers the results. Due to the depth of content, each session will focus on 8 product categories. You will learn how to target the right audience with the right tourism products and experiences; identify the right platforms and advertising channels to reach that audience; and understand the unique attributes of potential high-value audiences.
Note: To attend both Zoom sessions, you must register for each individually.
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Session 1
WHEN: Thursday, February 24, 10-11:15 a.m., including a Q & A segment
- ATVing
- Angling
- Major and Minor League Sports
- Indigenous Experiences
- Francophone Experiences
- Attractions and Theme Parks
- Resorts
- Spas and Retreats
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Session 2
WHEN: Thursday, March 3, 10-11:15 a.m., including
a Q & A segment
- Theatre & Film
- Museum & Heritage Sites, Science & Education
- Art Galleries
- Opera, Ballet & Symphony
- Foodie Destinations, Food Trails & Food Festivals
- Wine Regions
- Breweries, Cideries & Distilleries
- Farmers' Markets
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Introduction to Email Marketing With Mailchimp
This webinar hosted by the Small Business Advisory Centre will discuss the benefits of integrating email marketing, specifically MailChimp, into your online marketing strategy. The webinar will discuss how to focus more clearly on your audience, how to maintain a contact list, develop an email campaign, and re-target key customers. The speaker is Jennifer Baker Consulting.
By the end of this session, participants will:
- Describe the benefits of developing an effective email marketing strategy.
- Recognize the importance of maintaining an organized contact list.
- Implement tactics to develop an effective email marketing campaign.
WHEN: Tuesday, March 1, 9-10 a.m.
COST: Free
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Teeny Tiny Summit: Renewed, Refreshed and the New Rural
The keynote speaker is Robin Jones, Chair of ROMA (Rural Ontario Municipal Association) and Mayor of Westport. If you are involved in community economic development in a small community, this session will be of interest to you to discuss opportunities for Rural Ontario in a post-COVID world. Participants will be able to join a Twitter chat after each webinar at #TeenyTinySummit.
WHEN: Wednesday, March 2,
10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Virtual Event
COST: Free
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How to Recover with the Most Momentum
This online webinar is presented by the Brockville and District Chamber of Commerce. Coach Kevin Savoy will motivate you to brush yourself off and get back out there in the world of networking. Be inspired and invigorated with a whole new beginning.
WHEN: Thursday, March 3, 8-9 a.m. - Zoom online
COST: $25 (HST included) for non-chamber members. $20 for chamber members
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Bookkeeping 101: What Business Owners Need to Know
Speaker Lynn Marsh of HealthyBooks will discuss topics for keeping good books This webinar is hosted by the Small Business Advisory Centre.
Topics covered:
- Difference between an accounting firm and a bookkeeper and how both are essential
- How to set up records and filing systems
- Sole proprietor and incorporation
- HST annual, quarterly or monthly remittance periods and best practices
- Banking and credit cards for business
- Allowable expenses - what can be a ‘write-off’
- Vehicle expenses
- Payroll – best practices
- Accounting software - which is best for your business and why
- App Solutions – how to embrace the latest technology to eliminate a shoe-box of receipts
- Reports – Income Statement or Profit & Loss, Balance Sheet and more
- Q & A period
WHEN: Thursday, March 3, 9-11 a.m.
COST: Free
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Creating and Utilizing Facebook Groups
This webinar is hosted by the Small Business Advisory Centre with speaker Jennifer Baker Consulting. Facebook Groups are a place to communicate about shared interests with certain people. You can create a group for anything - including your business. It will focus on the benefits of setting up a Facebook Group as a value-add for your business. By the end of this session, participants will:
- describe the benefits of developing a Facebook Group for your business.
- recognize some of the key elements associated with Groups.
WHEN: Tuesday, March 8, 9-10 a.m.
COST: Free
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20 Trends Shaping Tourism Recovery in South Eastern Ontario
Workshop presenter Oliver Martin, of Twenty31 Consulting, analyzes the myriad of trends, predictions and forecasts, from CNN Traveller to the Economist and the Skift. Twenty31 developed a framework to prioritize the top 20 trends likely to impact how tourism recovery unfolds in Canada in 2022. This presentation will highlight eight of the trends with direct relevance for South Eastern Ontario destinations and tourism operators including impact on consumer behaviour.
WHEN: Thursday, March 10, 10-11 a.m.
COST: Free
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Leeds Grenville eNews Deadlines for submitting information:
If you have an upcoming workshop, seminar, or business-related event, please email it to us in advance.
- Submissions for the March 8th edition should be received by Monday, February 28th.
- Submissions for the March 22nd edition should be received by Monday, March 14th.
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Ann Weir
Economic Development Manager
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Deanna Clark
Economic Development Officer
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Joanne Poll
Administration / Communications Support
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Shelbi McFarlane
Business Development Officer
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32 Wall Street, Suite 300, Brockville, ON K6V 4R9
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