Economic Development eNews | March 3, 2026 | | A Wood-fired Euro-inspired Fresh Baked Adventure | | |
WESTPORT - In a village known for its waterfront views and steady flow of visitors exploring the Rideau Canal, Forno Sourdough Pizza + Bread has become a beloved destination for locals and travellers alike. Guests enjoy fresh baked sourdough breads, wood-fired pizzas, artisanal daily soups, handcrafted sandwiches, charcuterie, fresh pastries, and espresso, all made on-site with care and attention to detail. What began as a passion for traditional baking has grown into a refined and vibrant hub where community gathers.
Owner Jenni Pfeiffer, previously a professional geologist, travelled the world. Her time in Portugal, where fresh-baked bread was part of daily life, left a lasting impression. Upon settling in Westport, she began experimenting making bread at home. The oven-fresh breads and pizzas quickly gained popularity, and when a commercial location came up for sale, Jenni knew it had the potential to be the perfect fit.
One of the newest stops along the 1000 Islands Rideau Canal Waterways - Fresh Baked Adventure self-driving tour, the space is warm and authentic, featuring traditional Portuguese tilework. A grand forno, or oven, is positioned so customers can feel part of the food preparation experience.
Delicious offerings reflect both Jenni’s travels and the growing team’s experiences and backgrounds, with ingredients like meats, cheeses and produce sourced locally whenever possible. “It has been a big undertaking expanding from a home-based business. Certain aspects, such as the espresso machine, were new to us all. Thankfully we have a dedicated and hard-working team and together we have further developed what we offer,” she says.
Everything on the menu is made fresh. Loaves and other doughs are proofed overnight to be ready for baking early the next morning. Initially, the shop sold breads and frozen pizzas; after construction, oven installation and inspections were completed, full baking operations moved on-site and the restaurant opened.
The menu evolves with the seasons. Most recently, Forno added a Bottleshop featuring wines from small, privately-run vineyards. Forno collaborates with Brent Fehr, a local wine negotiant. They host monthly small group Wine School tastings that feature regions or varietals, paired with charcuterie and pizza.
“It's exciting to see the business grow, Westport is very loyal,” Jenni notes, reflecting on the patience of customers during the expansion and early months of operating. “With the beautiful dog-friendly outdoor dining area, we are ready and excited to embrace our second season of warmer weather."
She credits support from the Small Business Advisory Centre’s Starter Company Plus program, noting, “Since graduation, things have been a blur. Cindy James and the program helped me plan better," Jenni says, adding that some obstacles do remain. “It’s challenging to find people with the technical ability to make artisanal bread and pizza. We will need to fulfill a few positions in order to meet summer demand and be open daily.”
Humble beginnings do make the best bread, and Forno is living proof in the rise of the business.
| | Photos: Top - Jenni (right) and her staff working diligently, pulling the calabrese and hot honey pizza from the oven. Above from top - a variety of warm, morning-baked sourdough loaves and baguettes; the lunch menu includes daily soups, salads and fresh sandwiches; fresh baked pizza while you wait; delicately sweetened sourdough cinnamon rolls are a delight. | | Business Input Required on Regional Power Needs | | The power grid in Leeds Grenville falls under the St. Lawrence Region within the province. A power needs assessment is underway, and we are seeking input from medium to large sized businesses. | | |
If your company has growth plans in the future, that will require additional power within the near term of 2026 to 2030 and medium term of 2031-2025 your input is critical.
Available power capacity is limited in some parts of the region, so we encourage you to identify any current challenges and your future needs.
Please contact Ann Weir, Economic Development Manager via email who will provide you further details on information required by Tuesday, March 10.
| | | Sell Your Leeds Grenville Food/Drink Products to Regional Buyers | | | | |
The B2B Wholesale Food & Beverage Tradeshow
is where Leeds Grenville producers and growers
connect directly with retail and restaurant buyers.
Discover new business opportunities, strengthen connections, and be part of the movement to buy Canadian and support local.
Who Should Attend?
- Leeds Grenville Food & Beverage Producers: farms, artisan food makers, beverage companies, specialty food brands
- Buyers from outside of Leeds Grenville
- Retailers: grocery stores, specialty food shops
- Restaurants & Cafés: independent restaurants, bakeries, coffee shops, caterers
- Hospitality & Institutional Buyers: hotels, schools, hospitals, and other food service organizations
Currently, there are 27 buyers who are registered and ready to grow a more stable regional food and drink supply chain. For more information and required registration, call 613-342-3840 x 5361 or email
Shelbi.mcfarlane@uclg.on.ca
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Attending producers:
- Bushgarden Cheese
- Windmill Brewery
- Janine's Gardens
- Hall's Apple Market
- Beking's Family Farms
- The Barking Bee Company
- Harmony Farm
- Mrs. McGarrigle's Fine Foods
- No Go Coffee Co.
- Ridgway Confections
- Merrickville Cookies
- The Bee Good Shop
- Medley Micro Farm Inc.
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Date: Monday, March 23
Time: 12:30-3 p.m.
Location: Merrickville
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Augusta Township Mayor's Breakfast
Join Mayor Jeff Shaver on Friday, March 27 at 7:30 a.m. for this annual event held at the Maitland Education and Recreation Centre. Enjoy an inspiring start to the day while connecting with local leaders, business owners, and fellow community members over breakfast. Bruce Wylie will talk on his 55 years in radio $30 per person. Registration is required; deadline is March 19.
| | | Is Your Business New or Under 5 Years Old? Qualify for up to $5000! | | |
The next cohort of Starter Company Plus starts in April. This highly sought-after and exclusive program is designed to address critical business areas and empower small business owners for long-term success. Best of all, it’s completely free for participants.
You’ll receive step-by-step guidance in financial management, strategic planning, market research, and more. Through interactive workshops, one-on-one coaching, and access to a supportive network of like-minded entrepreneurs, you'll gain invaluable insights and build the skills needed to propel your business forward.
To receive a Starter Company Plus application you must first attend an entire information session on either March 11 from 12-12:45 p.m. or March 17 from 4-4:45 p.m. via the Zoom platform. Here, you will learn the full eligibility criteria to determine whether the program is right for you and your business. At the end of the information session, you will be afforded the application. Email Small Business or call 613-342-3840 x 5367.
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| Students, Be Your Own Boss! Up to $3000 to Launch a Summer Start-up | | | | |
Turn your great idea into a real business this summer through Summer Company. Participating students from ages 15–29 may receive up to $3,000 to help with start-up costs, along with hands-on business training and mentorship.
Gain practical experience in sales, marketing, financial management, invoicing, bookkeeping, customer service, and customer relationship development, while building confidence, creativity, and an entrepreneurial mindset. Support and guidance are provided every step of the way. Select your service area below and connect for more information, or apply today!
| | RTO 9 Call for Board of Director Applications | | |
The RTO 9 Board of Directors strives to maintain strong geographic representation across South Eastern Ontario, who bring a complementary balance of experience and skill sets to the table. This strategy brings a diversity of perspectives and experiences that provide the organization with a much fuller picture of the future and a more representative Board of Directors that reflects who residents are and who our visitors will be.
RTO 9 is seeking one (1) Director for the East region. There are also two (2) At Large Director seats open. Candidates interested in one of these positions will be asked to fill out the RTO 9 Board application form and submit a resume for consideration. Links to this form will be released on March 20. Registration opens March 20 and will close Friday, April 10 at 4 p.m. Successful applicants will be announced at RTO 9’s AGM on June 12 and must be able to attend the mandatory board orientation/training and retreat day on June 19.
Contact Bonnie Ruddock for further information at bruddock@region9tourism.ca.
| | Annual Awards Programs Now Accepting Nominations | | Recognize a deserving local business. The Economic Development Committees from each of these townships are seeking nominations for their Business of the Year Awards. Submit nominations through the links below or in-person at each Township office. | | |
Business of the Year, New Business of the Year
Business Awards Breakfast Event
Where: Mallorytown Legion
12 Quabbin Road, Mallorytown
When: Friday, April 10
Time: 7:30 a.m. Registration, 8 a.m. Breakfast,
8:30 a.m. Presentations
Nomination submission deadline March 13
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Business of the Year, Business Innovation, Young Entrepreneur
Business Awards Breakfast Event
Where: Elgin Lions Community Hall
19 Pineview Drive, Elgin
When: Wednesday, April 15
Time: 8-10 a.m.
Nomination submission deadline March 6
| | Beat the Deadline for Market Diversification and Trade Resiliency Fund | | |
This Initiative provides funding opportunities to primary producers and processors to support market diversification and resiliency within domestic and international markets, with emphasis on new and growing markets.
Applicants must have fewer than 500 employees at the project location and be one of the following:
- a primary producer
- a processor
- doing aquaculture, but only to the extent you are undertaking international marketing
- a fish or seafood processor, but only to the extent you are undertaking international marketing activities
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Categories:
- Market Development and Diversification Implementation Planning
- Implement Market Development and Diversification
- Implementation of Equipment and Technology
Application deadline March 17 at 11:59 p.m. ET.
| | RTO9 Partnership Fund is Open for Applications | | | | RTO 9’s Partnership Fund - The intent of the allocation is to encourage collaboration between the RTO and a variety of partners to leverage regional resources and to support new or incremental tourism activities that support the implementation of the RTO’s operations plan. The program is now open. If you are interested in applying, review the guidelines, check eligibility, gather quotes and ask questions before putting together an application. These guidelines will tell you everything you need to know about the program. | | |
Requirements include:
- Proof of Incorporation, a CRA Business Number, Certificate of Indian Status Registry Number or a Métis Registry Number.
- $2M Commercial General Liability Insurance.
- Applicants for Photography & Videography and training-Digital Capacity Building funding categories must use vetted RTO 9 vendors.
- A letter of acknowledgment from your Destination Management/Marketing /Planning Organization-DMO/DMMO/DMP
- Contributions must be made electronically – via either EFT or e-transfer.
- Submit application through an online form that can be re-accessed from same device.
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Categories
1. Photography & Videography
2. Digital Capacity Building
3. Marquee & Wayfinding Signage
Information Session
This is your chance to learn the program information and ask questions before starting your application. Register via date link below.
When: Thursday, March 12
Time: 10 a.m.
Cost: Free
Application deadline March 22 at 11:59 p.m.
| | Eastern Ontario Development Fund - Accepting Applications | | Application deadline May 27, 2026 | | |
emailThis fund provides support for projects and investments to businesses, municipalities and not-for-profit organizations for economic development in eastern Ontario. The program provides financial support/services to assist businesses to:
- grow their businesses
- improve productivity
- invest in innovation and skills development
- pursue new markets
- generate broad positive regional economic impact
- create new good, sustainable jobs
The types of support available include:
- funding support
- complementary services and support
Learn more about eligibility, what eligible businesses and community economic development projects need to do, and the eligibility checklist on the EODF website. For assistance contact Senior Business Advisor Kent Fitzhugh at least two weeks prior to deadline at 613-539-5479 or by email.
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A rare opportunity to own the only operating retail business property in the bustling Village of Jasper, held in the same family for 65 years.
This established operation features high-volume gas and diesel sales and a well-stocked convenience store with no local competition. Ample unused side and rear yard space offers strong expansion potential, including an LCBO outlet or truck rental franchise. Operated with just two part-time employees and limited hours, there is room to grow. Includes a bright second-floor owner’s apartment with three bedrooms. Roofs updated within five years.
View map for 24 County Road 17, Jasper.
| | Workshops, Seminars and Webinar Library | | |
AI Tools for Small & Medium Businesses
This practical webinar introduces small and medium businesses to AI tools that can make a real impact. Learn how platforms like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Canva Magic can support marketing, content creation, customer communication, and everyday business efficiency.
Additional highlights include AI apps and tools that save time, reduce costs, and help businesses work smarter!
No technical background required.
When: March 3
Time: 9-10:30 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
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Destination Discovery Series
Tailored to tourism operators who are curious about who’s working to boost regional tourism and want to know who to call for support. Join the Series and connect with the people and programs that can help your tourism business grow. Learn about the key players, their duties and organizational roles; learn who to reach and how collaborating can elevate your destination.
Topic: 1000 Islands Rideau Canal Waterways
When: March 10
Time: 1-2 p.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
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How to Exhibit at a Trade Show
Join the Government of Ontario for a free webinar on best practices for attending trade shows for both domestic and international audiences.
Learn how to draw attention to your booth, engage with trade show audiences and follow up with leads.
For registration support reach out to Carly.Kucherenko@ontario.ca
When: March 25
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
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Affordable Housing Event
The United Counties of Leeds and Grenville, in partnership with the Municipality of North Grenville are presenting an event to promote development of affordable housing. Find out how fast and affordably housing can be built.
Using the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) Housing Design Catalogue’s ready-made, publicly available designs, join experts from government and both traditional and modern construction leaders at the event.
Visit the Leeds Grenville website to register.
Date: March 27
Time: 8 a.m.-12 p.m.
Where: North Grenville Municipal Centre
in the Urbandale Arts Centre
285 County Road #44, Kemptville
Cost: Free
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Foodpreneur Advantage
Take part in the Foodpreneur Advantage program, designed to support food sector businesses at any stage. The Start-Up Seminars are a series of 6 free workshops for those starting or refining a food business, offered 4 times per year. Learn the basics from regulations, pricing, branding, packaging, labelling, and how to sell to retailers.
Upcoming seminars:
April 16: Starting a Food Business & Regulatory Compliance
April 23: How to Sell Your Food Product
April 30: Costing & Pricing to Make Profits
May 14: Marketing & Branding
May 28: Packaging & Labelling
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
| | United Counties of Leeds Grenville Economic Development Office | | |
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 17 edition should be received by March 9.
- Submissions for the March 31 edition should be received by March 23.
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SPECIAL MESSAGE:
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The Leeds Grenville Economic Development business directory is in the public web domain. The Economic Development Office does not share or sell the directory or event information to any resellers. Please be aware any email messages suggesting acquisition is not from the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville Economic Development Office.
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