Economic Development eNews | October 28, 2025 | | Going Out on a Limb To Serve You Best | | |
Photos: top main, The Maple Heights Team includes
(l-r) owner Doug Chapman, Mike (Moose) Lang-Williams, Donnie Kirkpatrick, Alan Graniel and Patrick Chapman. Above from top, The BlueLift reaches high above treetops; the woodchipper helps with clean-up, respectfully maintaining each job site; Doug and Patrick in the workshop; the Team stands by their brand on a beautiful autumn day.
LINKS
2912 Second Concession Road, Maitland
613-498-7150
Email
Website | Facebook
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ELIZABETHTOWN-KITLEY - For residents across Eastern Ontario, Maple Heights Tree Service has become more than just a contractor, you might say they’re neighbours with saws and ropes.
Maple Heights provides commercial, municipal, and private tree services, including removal, pruning, planting, and risk assessments. Founded in 2009 by Doug Chapman, the family business has spent 16 years combining community values with professional expertise, offering everything from emergency storm response to stump grinding and hedge trimming.
In the early days, Doug and his son Patrick would service jobs wherever they arose. Today, he focuses more on local work, giving credit to word-of-mouth marketing that's helped the business steadily grow. “We used to go up to a hundred kilometers from here for work, but now it's not that often,” he says.
Doug’s cousin re-introduced him to tree removal. “We had experience clearing family land when we were young,” Doug recalls. Inspired, he began researching, became an ISA Certified Arborist and continues to keep up with best practices including gaining his Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) in September. “I think my approach to organizing business processes came from my experience in retail,” he adds.
Doug ensures that his team is thoroughly educated in all aspects of skill development, equipment use and safety, which is paramount when climbing and cutting trees. The recently acquired spider-like BlueLift machine has a reach of 85 feet and can move through 38" openings; it's very nimble, and is the only one of its kind in the region. "It's an investment in better serving customers and making processes more efficient and safe," Doug says.
Patrick has been involved in the business for years, learning the technical skills required to leads and manage a team of up to six. “It’s something new every day, you get to work outside,” he says smiling.
Annually, the company schedules work from March 15 to December 15, with staff enjoying a winter break and a week off during August. “The staff deserve a break. It’s hard work; it's paid time off, and well-earned. We continue some work over the winter months with a reduced team,” Doug explains.
The business's dedication is reflected in the many certifications, insurance coverage, and the little things like property care. “We come to your property with the utmost respect, keep the communication open and clear. We have the proper equipment and get the job done effectively and efficiently,” Doug says.
Maintaining high standards has helped Maple Heights earn the best Google rating among local providers. Doug continues to focus on integrity, quality, and volume. “It’s a real challenge. We've had to increase the number of jobs to stay competitive,” he notes.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, Doug’s advice is simple, be patient. “It takes time and work to become established; to earn the trust of customers,” he says. That trust, along with family values, continues to guide the business as it serves communities with skill, professionalism, and genuine care.
| | Economic Development Summit | | Advanced Agenda Now Available | | |
The 17th Annual Summit promises very engaging sessions that celebrate regional success and prepare us for the future.
Adding to previously announced keynote speakers the Hon. Nina Tangri, Ontario’s Associate Minister of Small Business and Brock Dickinson, entrepreneur and strategist with Stonebridge Solutions, LP, are a dynamic lineup of presenters.
Parks Canada’s David Britton will lead a session on the Rideau Canal’s evolution as it approaches its 200th anniversary, highlighting its role as a national treasure and economic driver.
As Eastern Ontario communities grow, so does the demand for energy. Kennan Ip and Brian Gordon, representatives from the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) will present on how municipalities can shape electricity planning and infrastructure.
A lively panel titled “Bottle & Barrel Adventures – Behind the Brews” will feature local craft beverage entrepreneurs from Windmill Brewery, Kemptville Brewing Company, and Hall’s Apple Market.
In the afternoon, Jesse Mitchell of Strader-Ferris International will provide a cross-border customs update, helping to navigate De-minimis and tariff changes.
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The day will wrap up with the annual update from Ann Weir, Economic Development Manager for the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville, covering the Regional Economic Development through Immigration program, tourism initiatives, and the Counties 2026-2029 Strategic Areas of Focus.
Hosted by 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, this is the region’s top annual Economic Development event.
Access the Summit agenda for full details on the event. Reserve your seat by visiting the Counties webpage, or by clicking the button below. There are less than 50 tickets left.
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When: Friday, November 21, 2025
Time: Registration opens at 8:15 a.m. | Event runs 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Where: North Grenville Municipal Centre, 285 County Road 44, Kemptville
Cost: $58 (Advanced Registration Required)
Includes Light breakfast, snacks, and lunch
Register: invest.leedsgrenville.com/summit2025
Deadline: Friday, November 14, 2025 at 3 p.m.
Contact: joanne.poll@uclg.on.ca | 613-342-3840 ext. 5362
| | Bridges to Better Business Event Showcases Local Successes | | ATHENS - This year’s Bridges to Better Business event recognized awards of excellence, program graduation, and offered insights on artificial intelligence from experienced speakers at the Joshua Bates Centre on the evening of October 23rd. With 77 in attendance, the evening included a structured networking program to maximize interactions and presentations from Fraser Hardy on AI adoption followed by Theo Graham speaking to how digital adoption changed his strategic business approach. | | |
Leeds Grenville Entrepreneur of the Year Award
This award recognizes an exemplary business owner who rises to the top through perseverance, a willingness to tolerate uncertainty, take risks, exercise patience and versatility, have a high energy level, and a strong need to achieve.
Recipient: Jenn Winter, Ignite Printing
City of Brockville
Founded in 2015, Ignite Printing began as a one-person design business and has since grown into a full-service print and design company with six team members and a state-of-the-art facility. Jenn and her team are known for their friendly service, fast turnaround times, and community minded approach. Jenn’s commitment to innovation, customer service, and giving back to the community by offering free signage and materials to local non-profits, makes her an example of small business excellence.
| | Photo: Leeds Grenville Small Business Development Officer Carol Hardy, Leeds Grenville Entrepreneur of the Year Jenn Winter from Ignite Printing and City of Brockville Mayor Matt Wren. | | |
Leeds and Grenville Immigrant Entrepreneur Award & Inclusive Employer Award
The Immigrant Entrepreneur Award and Inclusive Employer Award are initiatives of the St. Lawrence-Rideau Immigration Partnership's Employment & Settlement Working Group.
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The Immigrant Entrepreneur Award recognizes immigrant business owners whose determination and innovation strengthen our local economy and enrich our communities.
Recipient: Trang Vu, Janine’s Gardens
Township of Augusta
After immigrating to Canada from Vietnam in 2011, Trang worked tirelessly to rebuild her career, and overcoming language barriers. During the pandemic, she and her husband relocated from Toronto to rural Leeds Grenville, where she co-founded Janine’s Gardens, a thriving year-round agricultural business producing microgreens, lettuce, and Asian greens through innovative hydroponic systems. Trang’s dedication, creativity, and commitment to community have helped Janine’s Gardens grow into a well-respected local supplier for farmers’ markets, restaurants, and families.
| | Photo: Melissa Francis from the St. Lawrence-Rideau Immigration Partnership, Tracy MacDonald of CSE Consulting, Immigrant Entrepreneur Award Recipient Trang Vu with business partner Janine Van Boxtel of Janine’s Gardens in Township of Augusta. | | |
The Inclusive Employer Award, in its second year, was created to highlight and recognize local employers who strive to make their businesses’ welcoming and inclusive to local immigrant employees.
Recipient: Allin & Associates Chartered Professional Accountants
Town of Prescott
Allin & Associates exemplifies what it means to be an inclusive employer. With 50% of their team consisting of newcomers, they have created a workplace culture where diversity is celebrated and every employee feels valued and supported. The company’s inclusive approach encompasses flexible scheduling for families, open communication across cultures, and mentorship to help newcomers succeed. They go beyond standard onboarding, helping new employees secure housing, adapt to small-town life, and access community resources.
| | Photo: Melissa Francis from the St. Lawrence-Rideau Immigration Partnership, Inclusive Employer Award Recipient: Kelly Allin of Allin & Associates Chartered Professional Accountants, Town of Prescott, Brandy Smith of the Upper Canada District School Board. | | Seven Grads Complete Starter Company Plus Program | | Photo: City of Brockville Mayor Matt Wren, Starter Company Plus Graduates Bre Audet-Martel of Nature’s Hum Clothing, Sheri Hatherly of Lyfstyle Training & Consulting, Susan Howard of LightWater Sanctuary, Pattie Curran of Curran Reading Corner, JD Van Allen of Eden’s Refuge, Leeds Grenville Small Business Development Officer Carol Hardy and Past Warden for United Counties of Leeds Grenville Nancy Peckford. Absent: Ian O’Brien of I/O Tech and Mike Piovesan of Spicy Riffs Hot Sauce | | |
Celebrating its tenth year in 2025, the Starter Company Plus adult entrepreneurship program graduated seven Leeds Grenville entrepreneurs. Participants received professional training in business fundamentals, business planning, and cash flow management. Following the training phase, they pitched their business ideas to a local panel of business volunteers all receiving a grant of $5,000, which supported various business investments. Graduates continued to receive coaching and attended additional workshops to further develop their enterprises.
These seven businesses are:
City of Brockville
Township of Edwardsburgh Cardinal
Township of Front of Yonge
Town of Prescott
Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands
Leeds Grenville Small Business would like to thank Community Futures Grenville for the additional support of $1000 granted to each of the Grenville area participants. Starter Company Plus programs are funded by the Province of Ontario, the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville, and the City of Brockville.
| | Nominations Open for Businesswoman Lifetime Award | | |
The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes a woman who has owned and operated a business in the Leeds Grenville for 15 or more years and who has made a lasting impact through her leadership, innovation, and community involvement.
Presented as part of the International Women’s Day celebration in March, this award honours a woman who's entrepreneurial journey reflects perseverance, creativity, and significant contributions to the economic and social well-being of her community. She serves as an inspiration and role model to others, especially women in business.
Download nomination form, fill it in and email / deliver to:
Carol Hardy, Small Business Development Officer,
Leeds Grenville Economic Development Office
32 Wall Street, Suite 300, Brockville, ON K6V 4R9
email: carol.hardy@uclg.on.ca
Questions? Call Carol at 613-342-3840 ext. 5367
Deadline: Friday, December 5, at 4 p.m.
| | 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Lynn Laming-Kerr. | | |
HFI Pyrotechnics Gains US Navy Contract
Edwardsburgh Cardinal business HFI Pyrotechnics has been awarded a five-year contract with the U.S. Navy to supply Marine Location Markers, with the Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC) serving as prime contractor. This contract is a major milestone for HFI. It highlights both innovation and excellence in Canadian defence and maritime manufacturing, a boost to the local company and area stakeholders!
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New Hot Tub Retailer in Region
Polar Springs Hot Tubs has been serving Kingston to Cornwall clients for over 18 years. Known for exceptional customer care, pricing, and reliable support, they feature a curated lineup of premium products. Email info@polarsprings.ca, call or text 613-572-2777 or visit their website at polarsprings.ca.
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This well maintained 4,300 sq.ft. solid brick building is located just one block from the Main Street in the heart of beautiful Gananoque, the Gateway to the 1000 Islands.
Whether you're launching a new venture, expanding your portfolio, or seeking a strategic location for your business, this high visibility location offers the perfect space for retail, residential or mixed use. With flexible interior space and structural integrity, this property is ready to support your next big idea.
View map for 120 Garden Street in Gananoque.
| | Workshops, Seminars and Webinar Library | |
Understanding Meta Ads: Part 2
For the second installment in the Meta Ads series, get ready to learn the basics of running effective ads on Meta! This session will cover essential topics to help you create successful ad campaigns.
Learning Objectives:
- Ad Campaign Fundamentals: Understand the key elements that make an ad campaign successful.
- Ad Sets and Individual Ads: Learn how to create different ad sets and individual ads to target specific groups of people.
- Budgeting Strategies: Discover how to wisely allocate your budget for the best results.
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When: October 30
Time: 10:00 am - 11:00
Where: Online
Cost: Free
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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.
Start-Up Seminars: a series of 6 free workshops for those starting or refining a food business, offered 4x per year. Learn the basics including regulations, pricing, branding, packaging, labelling, and how to sell to retailers.
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When:
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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AI for Business Efficiency Series
These hands-on sessions aren’t about ad tech or flashy marketing. Instead, they focus on quiet, practical systems that work in the background helping you to reclaim hours of admin time every week. Each session is delivered in plain language; with templates you can start using the same day. Offered to business owners located in the 1000 Islands, Frontenac, and Grenville regions.
When:
Nov 12: Declutter Your Back Office
- Automate invoices, bookings, and file tasks so you can get your evenings back.
Nov 26: Your 24/7 Executive Assistant
- Use AI to draft emails, capture meeting notes, and set priorities—keeping you focused on paid work.
Dec 10: Safe & Scalable AI Systems
- Choose the right tools, protect your data, and plan for growth so your business can expand with confidence.
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Time: 9 am - 10:30 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: $20/workshop or all for $50
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Attracting and Retaining Volunteers
Behind every successful event is a team of dedicated volunteers. Learn proven strategies for recruitment, creating positive volunteer experiences, and building long-term loyalty.
Whether you manage a small community festival or a large-scale event, this session will provide actionable tools to help you attract, engage and sustain your volunteer base.
Hosted by RTO9 and Festivals and Events Ontario
When: November 13
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
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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:
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: 10-11 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 November 11th, 2025 edition should be received by November 3rd.
- Submissions for the November 25th, 2025 edition should be received by November 17th.
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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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