Economic Development eNews | October 27, 2026 | | Honouring Passion is Key to a Spirited Success | | |
BROCKVILLE – The next chapter sometimes begins by returning to the joys of childhood. For Maxine Baveridge, owner of The Cottage Witch, that meant reconnecting with memories of growing up in England exploring nature, embracing creativity and turning those interests into a business of her own.
Located in historic Downtown Brockville, The Cottage Witch offers onsite handmade and carefully sourced items inspired by nature, spirituality, hearth and home. Crystals, jewellery, candles, books, journals, altar supplies and unique gifts offer customers ways to bring a little magick into their lives.
Celebrating five years in business throughout October, Maxine marked the milestone with activities, games and prizes. Reaching this milestone in downtown retail, through a pandemic and challenging market conditions, reflects her commitment and entrepreneurial perseverance.
During the planning stages, Maxine was greatly supported by her eldest daughter, Ariana. Her younger daughter, Abbygale, also worked in the store before moving to Ottawa, making this very much a "family business" at heart.
With a background in fashion design, Maxine's favourite products are those she creates herself. Her handmade Spell Jars and Witch’s Bells offer customers meaningful gifts and personal tools to help them focus on their wishes and create a sense of sanctuary.
The jars are available for intentions including grounding, luck, health, love, protection and creativity. Maxine also creates customized and pocket-sized jars. Each contains elements historically associated with their meaning in layers of herbs and flowers, some grown or foraged on her own property, alongside other botanicals, crystals, salts and resins. She seals each jar with hot wax and adds decorative details. Her handmade Witch’s Bells are individually strung as symbolic reminders of protection and positive energy.
Customer relationships are central to Maxine’s approach. She takes time to help visitors find special gifts or customized items suited to their needs. “My shop has the tools to help clients manifest what they need to put them at ease. Customers’ stories fill my cup!” she said.
As the business grew, Maxine expanded into the adjoining side of the store with support from a Digital Main Street grant. The additional space now serves as her studio, where she creates products and develops new ideas.
Named Downtown Brockville’s 2025 Rising Star, Maxine continues to grow her business through creativity and personal connection. Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to build a business around their passions.
Five years on, The Cottage Witch demonstrates how following a personal vision can create a meaningful livelihood while adding a distinctive independent retailer to the downtown business mix and giving customers another reason to shop local.
| | |
Photos: Main - Maxine shows her display of Spell Jars which are tools to help manifest the best intentions.
Above from top: See the different layers of ingredients that go into each Spell Jar; Maxine hand-fashions the light-catching crystal hanging pieces; plenty of Tarot Card sets to choose from and a variety of pagan supplies in stock; the storefront with main entrance door on the right.
| | As a business leader or owner, your input is critical to understanding how local businesses are performing, the implications of the U.S. trade war, and the support businesses need today and for future planning. The survey also provides an opportunity to request specific assistance. | | | | |
Take a few minutes to complete the survey. The deadline is October 27, 11:59 p.m.
| | Economic Development Summit | | Treasury Board President Hon. Kinga Surma Keynote at Summit | | |
Kinga Surma was first elected as the Member of Provincial Parliament for Etobicoke Centre in 2018 and was re-elected in 2022 and 2025. She has served as Ontario's Associate Minister of Transportation and Minister of Infrastructure before being appointed President of the Treasury Board in September 2026.
During her five years as Minister of Infrastructure, Surma led the province's historic expansion of high-speed internet access, managed Ontario's realty portfolio, the largest public real estate portfolio in the province, and advanced innovative project delivery models, including Public-Private Partnerships (P3s) and progressive design-build approaches, to deliver critical infrastructure more efficiently and provide better value for taxpayers. She also played a key role in Ontario's subway expansion, the largest in Canadian history, including the introduction of the province's first Transit-Oriented Communities program.
| |
Surma's guiding principle has always been respect for the taxpayer. This commitment informs every decision she makes as President of the Treasury Board, helping ensure Ontario families, workers and businesses have access to the health care, education, transit and infrastructure they rely on.
Born in Poland, Surma immigrated to Canada with her family at the age of four. As both a successful immigrant and proud Canadian, she understands the opportunities and challenges newcomers face as they build a life in Canada.
She holds a degree in Public Policy, Business and Commerce from the University of Guelph, as well as professional public relations designations from Toronto Metropolitan University.
| | |
The Honourable Kinga Surma
President, Ontario Treasury Board
| |
The Advanced Agenda is now available with all speakers listed.
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.
| |
WHEN: Friday, November 20, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
WHERE: North Grenville Municipal Centre,
285 County Road 44, Kemptville
COST: $65 (Advance Registration Required)
There are less than 60 tickets left.
| | Business Leaders Exhibit Grit, Growth and Greatness at Forum | | |
BROCKVILLE - The Small Business Success Forum brought together regional entrepreneurs and dignitaries for an evening of networking and professional development. Celebrating Small Business Week under the theme “Grit, Growth and Greatness,” the sold-out event moved to the Brockville Memorial Civic Centre this year to accommodate growing demand.
The Forum included the graduation and recognition of 11 new Starter Company Plus entrepreneurs followed by presentations of the Leeds and Grenville Immigrant Entrepreneur Award and the Leeds Grenville Entrepreneur of the Year Award.
Attendees gained industry insights during a panel discussion and Q&A featuring local business leaders Annie Ly of Sweet Ofelia’s Café & Market, Barry Moss of 401 Electric and Mariam Hussain, Senior Account Manager at BDC. The evening also featured complimentary professional headshots and digital marketing assessments.
Starter Company Plus Graduates
| | Photo: Back, l-r: Shannon Thompson, The Shanry Collective; Tyler Holmes, POOHDINI; Tatiana Nedecheva , The Locks Therapy Centre Inc.; Siobhan Mullen, Aluminators Eastern Ontario; Lauren Hurley, Nurturing Roots Consulting; Candice Berseth, French Touch of Colour; Karen Lowry, Rideau Fit Co; Aiko Mackie, Pau Hana Coffee Inc.; Sarah Benning, EPICut Inc.; Cara Dixon, The Unapologetic Femme; Ian Burnett, I.S.B Tree Consulting and Care. Front: Darren Gallacher, CF Grenville; Carol Hardy, Leeds Grenville Small Business; Leeds Grenville Warden Corinna Smith-Gatcke; MPP Steve Clark; MP Michael Barrett; Trish MacNamara, 1000 Islands CDC. | | |
Starter Company Plus 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, and became eligible for grants of up to $5,000, to support business investments. Graduates also receive ongoing coaching and attended additional workshops to further develop their enterprises. They are encouraged to remain connected to the local business network.
Starter Company Plus is funded by the Province of Ontario, the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville, and the City of Brockville. Leeds Grenville Small Business also thanks the Thousand Islands Community Futures Corporation and Community Futures Grenville for providing the additional $1000 in support for each participant.
| | Leeds and Grenville Immigrant Entrepreneur Award | | | | Photo: Leeds Grenville Warden Corinna Smith-Gatcke; Tracy MacDonald and Melissa Francis, St. Lawrence-Rideau Immigration Partnership; Natan Prajapati accepting award on behalf of Meet Prajapati - Immigrant Entrepreneur Award Recipient, owner of SWAGAT Indian Grocery Store, City of Brockville; MPP Steve Clark; MP Michael Barrett. | | |
Meet Prajapati, SWAGAT Indian Grocery Store, City of Brockville
Meet moved to Canada from India 12 years ago. Like many newcomers, he faced the challenges of adapting to a new country, establishing himself professionally, and building a life from the ground up. What began as a dream has grown into a thriving local business offering authentic Indian foods, spices, and cultural products while creating a welcoming space where people from diverse backgrounds can connect through food and culture.
Meet's contributions extend beyond his business. He has supported the local food bank, helped newcomer families find housing and employment opportunities, and championed cultural celebrations throughout the region.
The Immigrant Entrepreneur Award is an initiative of the St. Lawrence-Rideau Immigration Partnership’s Employment & Settlement Working Group that recognizes immigrant business owners whose determination and innovation strengthen the local economy and enrich communities. The working group includes the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville, CSE Consulting, Upper Canada District School Board Settlement Services, the Employment + Education Centre, and the Volunteer Centre of St. Lawrence – Rideau.
| | Leeds Grenville Small Business Entrepreneur of the Year Award | | | | Photo: Carol Hardy, Leeds Grenville Small Business; MPP Steve Clark; Leeds Grenville Warden Corinna Smith-Gatcke, Entrepreneur of the Year Award Recipient Nicole Hudson, Katarina’s Coffee Shop, Town of Prescott; MP Michael Barrett. | | |
Nicole Hudson, Katarina’s Coffee Shop, Town of Prescott
Katarina’s Coffee Shop in Prescott has grown into a local favourite and year-round destination offering a diverse menu of food, beverages, specialty products and catering. Owned by Nicole Hudson and her mother, Carla, the business serves breakfast, sandwiches, homemade soups, baked goods, desserts and custom cakes.
As a Starter Company Plus graduate, Nicole has benefited from business development support through Community Futures Grenville, helping her build and grow her entrepreneurial venture. Previously recognized as the 2024 Immigrant Entrepreneur of the Year, Nicole exemplifies the determination, adaptability and entrepreneurial spirit that strengthen the local economy and create opportunities for business growth in Leeds Grenville.
The award recognizes an exemplary business owner who demonstrates perseverance, a willingness to take risks and navigate uncertainty, patience and versatility, high energy, and a strong drive to achieve.
Throughout the year, Leeds Grenville Small Business staff provide free consultations, tools, resources, events, and workshops to support small businesses across the region. For more information visit the Leeds Grenville Small Business webpage.
| | Nominations Open for Businesswoman Lifetime Achievement Award | | |
The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes a woman who has owned and operated a business in 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, complete 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 December 11, 4 p.m. | | 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Sue Ouelette of North Grenville. | |
Kriska Receives Top Employer Award
Kriska Holdings Limited has been named Canada's 2026 Top Medium Fleet Employer by Trucking HR Canada. The award recognizes Kriska's commitment to its employees and workplace culture. In its LinkedIn announcement, the company expressed pride in bringing the award home, highlighting its goal of creating a workplace where people enjoy their careers, feel supported and can build a future for themselves and their families. Kriska also thanked its drivers, owner-operators and employees for their hard work, commitment and care for one another.
| | | Get Ready to Apply for the Canada Summer Jobs Wage Subsidy | | | | |
What this program offers:
This program provides wage subsidies to support employers to create quality summer work experiences for youth aged 15 to 30 years.
This subsidy:
- provides quality work experiences for youth
- provides opportunities for youth to develop and improve their skills
- responds to national and local priorities to improve access to the labour market for youth who face unique barriers
Funding amount
Not-for-profit employers can receive funding for up to 100% of the provincial or territorial minimum wage and public and private sector employers are eligible to receive funding for up to 50%.
| | Expanded Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative Accepting Applications | | |
As part of AI for All, the Government of Canada announced an additional $500 million for the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII).
Intake for the expanded RAII is now open. Funding is available to help small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and organizations adopt and integrate AI solutions, help Canadian AI companies bring innovative AI solutions to market, and integrate AI into their operations to boost productivity, competitiveness, and growth.
| | |
FedDev Ontario is accepting applications for projects under three streams:
-
AI Adoption: Funding to support established businesses and organizations adopt and integrate AI technologies into their operations to improve productivity, competitiveness, growth and resilience.
-
AI Commercialization and Scale-Up: Funding to support businesses to validate, commercialize, deploy and scale Canadian-made AI products and services.
-
AI Ecosystem: Supports organizations that help businesses adopt, deploy and scale AI technologies through services, expertise, partnerships and ecosystem development.
Businesses and organizations are encouraged to visit FedDev Ontario’s webpage for information on eligibility requirements, application guidelines, and details on how to apply.
| November 24 deadline for projects with costs before March 31, 2027. | | Local Connections for Manufacturing & Supply Chain Solutions | | | | |
Who should attend?
- Manufacturers
- Suppliers & Distributors
- Logistics & Transportation Companies
- Industrial Service Providers
- Engineering & Technical Firms
- Business Development Professionals
| |
Confirmed attendees:
- Northern Cables
- Wills Transfer
- Strader Ferris
- Douglas Barwick
- EFI Engineering
- NEXT Polymers
- DFC Woodworks
- Port of Johnstown
- Fedorki
- DC Snelling
- Hewitts
- JJ Jensen
| |
*Note: the event is not open to the public
Register by email: susan@eecentre.com
| | Workshops, Seminars and Webinar Library | | Introduction to AI for Small Business Marketing | | |
Curious about AI but not sure how to use it in your marketing? This free introductory workshop will show you practical ways AI can help make marketing your small business easier and more effective. Learn how to use AI tools to generate ideas, create and improve content, save time, and support your day-to-day marketing efforts without needing to be a tech expert.
*Perfect for small business owners who are new to AI or want to learn how to use it more effectively.
| | |
Date: November 4
Time: 5-6:30 p.m.
Where: Front of Yonge Community Centre,
76 County Road 5, Mallorytown
Cost: Free
Spaces are limited, save your seat today!
| | | |
Programs for Ontario’s Main Street Employers by Digital Main Street Academy
| | Digital Main Street introduces new training streams in AI, cyber security, and growth-driven technologies, equipping Ontario’s main street employers with rapid, practical, future-ready skills to raise productivity and build capacity in a technology-dependent economy. The programs are built with business owners to be practical and fast, and are delivered through a mix of self-paced online learning, live sessions, and in-person workshops. | | |
Every program is free, and ends with a certificate of completion plus a LinkedIn skills badge. This Employment Ontario program is funded by the Government of Ontario.
Multiple intakes, explore info below and register when programs open. Next available intake: November 2 - 30, register by October 28.
| | | | |
Future Proofing Businesses with AI:
hands-on AI skills for sales, marketing, customer service, and faster decision-making, building efficiencies, reducing repetitive work, and developing growth-driven workflows.
| |
| | | |
AI for Business Managers:
separates AI hype from reality to identify practical opportunities for business owners and managers, with integration, implementation, accelerated adoption of AI, and safety as key outcomes.
| |
| | | |
CyberSecure Your Business:
learn and develop the skills to prevent fraud in a business environment, from emails and messages to financial fraud, plus data and digital risk management.
| |
| Attend SEe ON Summit: Envision Tourism Growth | | |
Big ideas are taking shape. RTO 9 is crafting an agenda packed with inspiring conversations, practical takeaways, and opportunities to connect with leaders across the tourism industry to help Envision Tourism Growth across South Eastern Ontario.
Leading the charge are keynote headliners Jennifer Robins (Environics Analytics) and Jason Hunt (Merged Media), who will bring fresh thinking on how data, storytelling, and strategy come together to drive impact.
| | |
Two-Day Admission
valid for both days incl. fees:
Oct 1-Nov10 = $86.53
One-Day Admission
for either day incl. fees:
Oct 1-Nov 10 = $54.58
When: November 17-18
Where: DEV Hotel & Conference Centre,
1950 Montreal Road, Cornwall
| |
Lunch is provided on both days of the event. If you have any dietary requirements or questions prior to purchasing your ticket, please email
Meg Dabros.
| | Sharpen Your Knowledge With Foodpreneur | | The Foodpreneur Advantage Program is a small business resource for food enthusiasts. It's for individuals looking to start or expand a food or beverage manufacturing business producing consumer packaged goods. The program provides introductory one-hour expert-led training sessions and industry insights to help navigate getting started or expanding into new product lines. Take as many of these courses as you wish; if you miss one, pick up where you left off in the following round. | | |
Fall Session
October 29: Starting a Food Business and Regulatory Compliance
November 5: How to Sell Your Food Product
November 12: Costing, Pricing and Unit Economics
November 19: Branding & Marketing Your Food Product
November 26: Food Safety Fundamentals for Founders
December 3: Labelling & packaging Your Food Product
| | |
When: Thursdays
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
| | | United Counties of Leeds and 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 10 edition should be received by November 2.
- Submissions for the November 24 edition should be received by November 16.
| | | | |
