Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring CANCAST, EC3 and Canadian Canoe Museum

PTBOCanada is delighted to be running the Business Beat columns each week here, spotlighting new businesses and startups in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. Here is this week’s edition…

This week, we’re diving into a mix of fishing fever, arts investment and canoe culture—all signs of a vibrant spring season ahead.

Big Hooks and Bigger Crowds: CANCAST Meets Muskie Odyssey

This past weekend marked a milestone for outdoor enthusiasts across Ontario. The CANCAST Fishing and Tackle Show teamed up with the Muskie Odyssey for what’s being called Canada’s largest fishing event yet.

Held across two venues—the Peterborough Memorial Centre (including the Morrow Building) and the Kinsmen Civic Centre—the expanded show doubled the vendors, speakers, and experiences. A free shuttle service kept everything connected and convenient for attendees.

This collaboration signals strong momentum in the Kawarthas’ tourism and outdoor recreation economy, a key growth area for the region. Organizers are already hinting that this new two-venue format could become the new standard, especially as 2026 marks CANCAST’s 5th anniversary in Peterborough.

If you missed the action, mark your calendars for next year—or check out what’s coming up.

Fueling Creativity: $35,000+ in Arts Grants

From fishing rods to paintbrushes, Peterborough’s creative side is also thriving. The Electric City Culture Council (EC3) recently announced over $35,250 in grants to 17 local artists through their Grants for Individual Artists program.

These funds support a wide range of creative projects and help strengthen the local arts economy—just in time for a busy spring and summer lineup of exhibitions, performances, and events. It’s a clear reminder that investing in culture pays dividends for community vibrancy and tourism alike.

Whether you’re an artist, arts supporter, or simply enjoy what our region has to offer, this boost is great news.

Adventure Stories on the Water: Backcountry Canoe Symposium

Next up on the calendar: a full day of inspiration for paddlers and outdoor lovers. On April 11, the Canadian Canoe Museum is hosting the Traversing Backcountry Canoe Symposium in partnership with Traversing.

The lineup features experienced adventurers and storytellers including Ben Beauchamp, Kirsten Graham-May, Eric Drost, Hilary Croft, and Katrina Van Osch. They’ll share tales from solo trips to epic northern expeditions across Canada’s backcountry.

Attendees can join in person at the museum or virtually from anywhere. Expect a full day of talks, connections and plenty of motivation to get out on the water this season. Tickets are $25 in-person or $10 virtual.

If you want to have your business featured on the Business Beat or know of a business doing something new and interested, shoot an email to brenda@pkchamber.ca.

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