Celebrating Small Business Week October 19-25 | | Economic Development eNews | October 14, 2025 | | Purcell Recognized with 2025 Bill Thake Memorial Award | | |
Photos: Top, main: Thake Recipient Brian Purcell; Above, left: Spencerville Mill as a Tourist Attraction; Brian's work with the Optimist Club; Flooding a community ice surface; Brian coaching Timbits Hockey; James Purcell Insurance Ltd. office in Spencerville.
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13 Centre Street, Spencerville
613-658-3123
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SPENCERVILLE-Brian Purcell, co-owner of James Purcell Insurance Broker Ltd., has been named the 2025 recipient of the Bill Thake Memorial Award for Economic Development Leadership.
Purcell Insurance has long been a trusted presence in Spencerville, providing tailored general insurance advice, automobile, home, farm, commercial, recreation vehicles and travel insurance coverage and client service to families and businesses throughout the region.
For decades, Brian has volunteered to make a positive economic and social impact through heritage, tourism, youth, and civic initiatives.
A respected business owner and community leader, Purcell has built his career on the principle that a strong community and a strong economy go hand in hand. “This is a great honour to be recognized by my peers for this award,” said Purcell. “I grew up to be aware of who Bill Thake was and admired his dedicated and lengthy service to his community. I don’t feel I do anything special; I just follow the example that my parents demonstrated by being involved and active in my community.”
His tireless work in many roles with the Spencerville Mill Foundation, a cornerstone heritage site and tourism attraction, has ensured the Mill thrives as a community hub with measurable economic results. “The Spencerville Mill has been resurrected as a focal point and economic driver in the village of Spencerville over the past 35 years,” said Purcell. “I was honoured to join the Spencerville Mill Foundation board and am proud of what the Mill offers to the community.”
“Brian has an easy-going and friendly demeanour which makes him a natural leader. His character and leadership have made our community a better place,” said Tim East, Chair of the Foundation.
Equally important is Brian’s commitment to youth through the Spencerville and District Optimist Club, where he has served in multiple leadership roles since becoming a charter member in 1991. From mentoring young leaders to helping create the community’s outdoor rink, his efforts have given generations of local youth places to grow and connect. “The Optimist Club is a special organization, bringing out the best in kids,” said Purcell. “The Optimist Club provides fun activities and development programs that help youth to be better citizens and future leaders in our communities and beyond,” he added.
Purcell’s leadership also involves updating the public on what's happening in Spencerville through radio spots on air with Bruce Wylie, through civic service and sport. He has been a Captain with the Edwardsburgh Cardinal Fire Department and for almost 30 years, serves as a public representative on the South Grenville OPP Detachment Board.
His mentorship continues on the ice, where he has coached and supported South Grenville Minor Hockey for many years. “Brian’s efforts span both grassroots community development and regional leadership,” said Tory Deschamps, Mayor of Edwardsburgh Cardinal. “His contributions help strengthen local institutions, support youth engagement, promote public safety, and enhance economic resilience.”
Through his business, volunteerism, and leadership, Brian Purcell has demonstrated the qualities that build lasting community strength. Leeds Grenville celebrates his achievements and congratulates him on receiving the 2025 Bill Thake Memorial Award that will be presented at the Economic Development Summit on November 21st.
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Join Leeds Grenville Small Business for an evening on how digital tools and AI drive growth, efficiency, and innovation, featuring Fraser Hardy and Theo Graham. Connect with peers and leave with practical tactics you can apply to your business.
Highlights include: networking, presentations, a catered dinner, cash bar featuring Arbru Brewery, interactive Q&A, awards celebrating outstanding businesses, and the Starter Company Plus graduation.
Hosted by: United Counties of Leeds and Grenville and the St. Lawrence Rideau Immigration Partnership.
Sponsorship opportunities email Carol.
Cost: $69
Registration deadline October 17th.
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Featured Speaker: Theo Graham
Theo is the Owner and Operator of Songwood Contracting, a full-service residential and commercial construction and renovation firm. With a background in project management and over a decade of experience leading complex builds across Ontario and beyond, Theo brings a real-world perspective to digital and AI adoption in business. Theo will candidly share his journey implementing various AI and digital platforms to drive productivity and efficiencies; offering a relatable case study for other business owners looking to make the leap.
| | Economic Development Summit | | Associate Minister Tangri to Speak at Summit | | |
The Leeds Grenville Economic Development Office, in partnership with Michael Barrett, M.P., Steve Clark, M.P.P., the 1000 Islands CDC, CF Grenville, Valley Heartland CFDC, and the Eastern Workforce Innovation Board invites you to the region’s top annual economic development event.
The Honourable Nina Tangri, Ontario’s Associate Minister of Small Business will give the keynote address at the 2025 Leeds Grenville Economic Development Summit.
Associate Minister Tangri is the Member of Provincial Parliament for Mississauga-Streetsville. She has served as the Associate Minister of Housing, as the Minister of Small Business and Red Tape Reduction and was appointed Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation, and Trade.
Nina Tangri is also an entrepreneur with over 35 years experience in insurance and finance. She is passionate about bringing communities together and working with individuals, businesses, and organizations to learn how the government can continue to make Ontario the best place to live, work, start a business, and raise a family.
Join us for a day focused on Economic Development and the presentation of the Bill Thake Award (Warden's Award). Learn more and register your seat by visiting the Counties Summit webpage, or by clicking on the button.
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The Honourable Nina Tangri, Associate Minister of Small Business.
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WHEN: Friday, November 21, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
WHERE: North Grenville Municipal Centre,
285 County Road 44, Kemptville
COST: $58 (Advance registration required)
| | Leeds Grenville Businesses at Ottawa Career Expo | | |
Counties Economic Development hosted a high-profile Leeds Grenville section at the Career Expo that showcase job opportunities at the Counties along with HFI Pyrotechnics of Augusta Township and Kehoe Marine Construction of Leeds and the Thousand Islands Township.
On October 7th, approximately 5000 job seekers visited the Ottawa’s Roger Centre to connect with over 50 exhibitors.
| | | Elizabethtown-Kitley Business Excellence Celebrated | | |
The Township of Elizabethtown-Kitley recognized two outstanding local enterprises during the 30th annual Business of the Year Breakfast, held on October 9th at Cedar Valley Golf & Country Club.
This year’s Business of the Year Award was presented to Miller’s General Repair and Service Limited and Harvex Agromart Inc., both honoured for excellence in their field, longevity, innovation, and community involvement. Rounding out the list of nominees were Chit-Chat Convenience, Classic Trophies & Gifts, and Jack Van Dusen Excavating Limited. The annual event celebrates the small business achievements that demonstrate innovation, dedication, and community involvement.
Guest speaker Trish McNamara, Executive Director of the 1000 Islands Community Development Corporation, delivered an engaging presentation highlighting the vital role small businesses play in meeting community needs and driving the local economy forward.
Both award recipients expressed gratitude for the community’s ongoing support and reflected on the importance of local partnerships in achieving success.
| | Photos: (left) Grant Vale and Sam Asbreuk from Harvex Agromart Inc., and (right) Derek Miller and Angela Flood-Miller of Miller's General Repair and Service Limited share Business of the Year honours with MP Michael Barrett, MPP Steve Clark and Mayor Brant Burrow. | | 20th Starter Company Plus Program Launched | | |
PRESCOTT–The United Counties of Leeds and Grenville is supporting 17 small businesses in building stronger foundations and greater resiliency through the Starter Company Plus program. Over the next six months, participants will work to complete intensive training in business fundamentals, including developing business plans, applying cash flow best practices, and strengthening long-term strategies for growth.
Each entrepreneur will have the opportunity to receive up to $5,000 in funding to support essential business needs, from equipment purchases to marketing initiatives. The program also provides personalized business coaching from experienced advisors via mentorship sessions that ensure participants have the best opportunity to launch and grow their businesses.
On Thursday, October 9th, graduates, local dignitaries, mentors, and community supporters gathered in the Grand Room at Prescott Town Hall to mark the start of this new round. The launch serves as a valuable networking opportunity to
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strengthen connections within the local business community.
This new group represents a diverse range of enterprises from health and wellness, psychotherapy, beauty, hospitality, agriculture, communications, creative arts, machining to home services, with locations spanning to the City of Brockville, the Municipality of North Grenville, and the Townships of Edwardsburgh Cardinal, Elizabethtown-Kitley, Athens, Augusta, Leeds and the Thousand Islands, and Front of Yonge.
For more information on the Starter Company Plus program and next dates for intake, visit the website. The Counties’ Small Business and Economic Development staff offer free consultations, resources, events, and workshops, assisting local entrepreneurs to continue to learn, grow and foster their presence within the region’s business network.
| | Back row, l-r: Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes MPP Steve Clark, Timothy Markus of The Bedrock Depot, Abby McIntyre of Abby McIntyre Consulting, Nick Weymouth of Weymouth Machine Works, Chris Brandsma of HagenWood Laser Products and Services; Jennifer Slater of Hair She Goes, Kathleen Greenwood of Design Symphony, Alison Gibson of A 1000 Ways and Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands-Rideau Lakes MP Michael Barrett. Front row, l-r: Sarah Nestor of The Nest Wellness, Brian Healy of Accent Landscape Services Inc., Bianca Timmerman of Queen Bees Café, Leeds Grenville Warden Corinna Smith-Gatcke, Katie Malott of Epoch Acres, Saria LaRocque of MerkaMa Rejuvenations and Heather Savage of Creative Practice. Missing in photo are Amanda Bender-Francois of ASB Psychotherapy, Brandon Bloomfield of Your Local Handyman Service and Patricia VanderLaan of Saltastic Health and Wellness Spa. | | |
Township of Athens
Nick Weymouth, Weymouth Machine Works
Contact: nick@weymouthmachine.ca
Website: weymouthmachine.ca
Instagram: @weymouth.nick
Township of Augusta
Jennifer Slater, Hair She Goes
Contact: jenn@hairshegoes.salon
Website: hairshegoes.salon
Facebook: @HAIRSHEGOESJENN
Instagram @hairshegoes_jenn
City of Brockville
Amanda Bender-Francois, ASB Psychotherapy
Contact: 613-498-8682 amanda@asbpsychotherapy.com
Website: asbpsychotherapy.com
Heather Savage, Creative Practice
Contact: savage.art79@gmail.com
Bianca Timmerman, Queen Bees Café
Contact: queenbeescafe@gmail.com
Facebook: @QueenBeesCafe
Township of Edwardsburgh Cardinal
Kathleen Greenwood, Design Symphony
Contact: 613-371-8468 / kat@designsymphony.art
Website: designsymphony.art
Facebook/Instagram: @designsymphony
Katie Malott, Epoch Acres
Contact: 519-577-4667 / epochacres@gmail.com
Website: epochacres.ca
Facebook/Instagram: @epochgrowth
Timothy Markus, The Bedrock Depot
Contact: 613-657-3106 thebedrockdepot@gmail.com
Facebook: @TheBedrockDepot
Abby McIntyre, Abby McIntyre Consulting
Contact: abby@abbymcintyre.ca
Website: abbymcintyre.ca
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Township of Elizabethtown-Kitley
Brian Healy, Accent Landscape Services Inc.
Contact: brianhealy65@gmail.com
Website: accentlandscapes.ca
Saria LaRocque, MerkaMa Rejuvenations
Contact: merkamarejuvenations@outlook.com
Township of Front of Yonge
Alison Gibson, A 1000 Ways
Contact: 613-640-1743 / alison@a1000ways.com
Website: a1000ways.com
Facebook: A1000WAYS
Instagram: @a1000waystours
Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands
Chris Brandsma,
HagenWood Laser Products and Services
Contact: 1-647-870-4279 / chris@hagenwood.com
Municipality of North Grenville
Brandon Bloomfield
Your Local Handyman Service
Contact: 613-851-8828 / info@YourLocalHandymanService.com
Website: yourlocalhandymanservice.com
Facebook: YourLocalHandyman
Sarah Nestor, The Nest Wellness
Location: Clothier Street East in Kemptville.
Contact: 613-215-0400 / info@nestwellness.ca.
Website: thenestkemptville.com/
Instagram: @thenestkemptville
Patricia VanderLaan,
Saltastic Health and Wellness Spa
Location: County Road 43 in Kemptville
Contact: 613-215-0644 / info@saltastic.ca
Website: saltastic.ca
Facebook/Instagram: @saltasticlounge
Karen Trivett, Inanna’s Grotto
Contact: 613-883-8059
trivettk75@gmail.com
Website
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Regional Tariff Response Initiative
The Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) provides support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) impacted by tariffs, strengthening the competitiveness of Canadian businesses by helping them boost productivity, cut costs, build more resilient supply chains and reach new markets.
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FedDev Regional Program Funding
FedDev Ontario is now accepting applications under the Southern Ontario regional program stream.
Both businesses and non-profit organizations that support them can apply at any time; the program is offered on a first-come-first-served basis, there is no deadline.
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Dream it. Pitch it. Win it.
$20,000 in prizes to each of the Two Successful Businesses!
The Leeds Grenville’s Greatest Entrepreneur initiative is your chance to turn an idea into reality, or take your existing business to the next level. Even if you haven’t launched yet, as long as you have a great idea, you can apply!
Whether you’re just dreaming it up or already building something great, this competition connects you with expert support, community exposure, and funding opportunities to help your business thrive.
Here’s how it works:
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Apply by October 17 at noon with your written submission.
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By the end of November, finalists will be announced.
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Up to six finalists will pitch live on January 28, 2026, competing for two grand prize packages each worth $10,000 in cash and $10,000 in prizes.
- Each finalist will receive a small cash prize.
- All finalists will receive visibility, marketing and networking.
- All entrants will receive coaching on their application, if requested.
| | * For more on funding, visit the Leeds Grenville Economic Development funding resources page. To receive advice on whether your business could qualify,email Shelbi McFarlane, Business Development Officer or call her at 613-342-3840 x 5361. | | Workshops, Seminars and Webinar Library | | |
When: November 6, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Where: Brockville Country Club
Cost: Free
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Diversity Day 2025
Join the St. Lawrence – Rideau Immigration Partnership for another incredible Diversity Day! Building on last year’s enthusiasm for a focus on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, they will be continuing and expanding on that theme. With amazing local speakers, learning opportunities, topical game, and networking time, it’s a great free event open to everyone!
Speakers include:
- Arpan Kuar – Brockville Newcomer
- Lorraine Rekmans – Anishinabek Grandmother and Indigenous Rights Advocate
- Lesley Hubbard – Girls Inc.
NG Pride will be providing engaging training sessions that will help us better understand the diversity of our communities and how we can engage further in the development of equitable and inclusive relationships. A light lunch will be offered. Space is limited, so register today!
| | Foodpreneur Advantage Now Available in Leeds Grenville | | |
Food and beverage entrepreneurs in Leeds Grenville are now eligible to take part in the Foodpreneur Advantage, designed to support food sector businesses at any stage.
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Start-Up Seminars: a series of 6 free workshops for those starting or refining a food business, offered 4x per year. Learn the basics of running a food business, including regulations, pricing, branding, packaging, labelling, and how to sell to retailers. To register for upcoming workshops, visit the website.
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When:
Oct 30: Starting a Food Business & Regulatory Compliance
Nov. 6: How to Sell Your Food Product
Nov 13: Costing & Pricing to Make Profits
Nov 20: Marketing & Branding your Food Product
Nov 27: Food Safety Fundamentals for Start-ups
Dec 4: Labelling & Packaging your Food Product
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Time: 10-11 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
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Stretch Your Marketing Dollar:
Low-Cost, High-Impact Marketing
This workshop will share practical, affordable marketing strategies for small-town businesses. From making the most of free tools like Google Business Profile to repurposing content across platforms and building local partnerships, you’ll learn how to get results without overspending.
Learn to:
• repurpose one piece of content into more
• use free tools like Google Business Profile to improve visibility
• partner with other local businesses to cross-promote and reach more people
When: October 20
Time: 9:30-11 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
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RTO 9 AI Webinar Series
Now that you’ve dipped your toe in, it’s time to learn the #1 skill that will change how ChatGPT works for you: prompting. This session breaks down the basics of crafting good prompts—because the output is only as good as what you ask. We’ll explore how to get more tailored, thoughtful, and relevant answers that sound like you and work for your business.
When: (Series Dates):
Oct. 22: Prompting AI 101 - Talking Like a Boss
Nov. 27: Marketing Magic: Content in Less Time
Dec. 16: Plan it Like You Mean It
Jan. 27: Teamwork & Tools: AI in Collaboration
Feb. 17: Putting it All Together
Time: 10:00 am - 11:00
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 October 28th, 2025 edition should be received by October 20th.
- Submissions for the November 11th, 2025 edition should be received by November 3rd.
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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 to any resellers. Please be aware any email messages suggesting acquisition of the directory is not from the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville Economic Development Office.
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