Community Futures Peterborough Celebrates 40 of Fueling Local Businesses

Community Futures Peterborough (CFP) hits a major milestone, celebrating its 40th anniversary during its Annual General Meeting at Farmhill Weddings in Keene on Thursday afternoon.

Lexi Mills of Heeling Souls getting affection from her Australian Border Collie, Phoebe. All Photos by David Tuan Bui.

Business leaders, politicians, board members, entrepreneurs and community partners were on hand to celebrate and mark the occasion.

“Forty years of Community Futures Peterborough means 40 years of believing in entrepreneurs, fueling businesses and strengthening our regional economy,” said Devon Girard, CFP executive director.” We’ve played a key role in helping thousands of local businesses start, grow and thrive. Today, we are so proud to honour that legacy.”

CFP reported that it had received a record $4.6 million in loan applications in its 2024-25 fiscal year and distributed over $1.38 million to 26 local companies. CFP says that the loans created and/or maintained over 330 local jobs during that span.

At the meeting, CFP paid tribute to several previous board chairs and also honoured the late executive director, Judy Heffernan.

“Celebrating 40 years is more than a milestone, it’s a testament to the dedication, resilience and impact of Community Futures Peterborough,” says Wayne Harding, CFP board chair. “We’ve helped countless entrepreneurs turn dreams into reality, and as we look ahead, we’re more committed than ever to driving local economic growth and empowering the next generation of business leaders.”

A pop-up market of graduates of the 2024 and 2025 Starter Company Plus program was on hand to sell services and merchandise during the celebration.

The following clients were at the pop-up market:

• Common Thread Films

• Architecture of Wellness

• Layin’ Divots Golf

• Lark & Lemon Cleaning Co.

• The Willow Studio

• Jodilee Nutrition

• National Touring Museum

• T-Elle Boutique

• Home & Well

• Duff Acres

• The Doggery

• Summer Soul

• Urban Roots 47 Salon + Spa

• Heeling Souls

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Six Local Youth Startups Announced For Community Futures Peterborough's Inaugural Summer Company Program

Community Futures Peterborough’s (CFP) Business Advisory Centre (BAC) named six local youth startups for its inaugural Summer Company Program, announced on Wednesday.

In Ontario, young people under the age of 30 now make up nearly 12 percent of all self-employed individuals according to CFP. Photo courtesy of CFP.

This summer’s participants are Lauren Connolly, Teaghan Hartnett, Haydon Meade, Neha Mervin, Bisma Razaque and Spencer Toth.

The initiative is aided by the Government of Ontario, which supports the entrepreneurial aspirations of youth aged 15 to 29. Each year, the program provides eligible young people with up to $3,000 in grant funding to start and operate a business over the summer months. Participants also receive comprehensive business training, expert advice and personalized mentorship to help turn their ideas into real-world enterprises.

“I love seeing kids grow in their swimming skills and confidence,” said Connolly, Connolly Swim Academy founder. “I am really excited to make my business the best it can be for my clients.”

Businesses range from a swimming instructor, Bollywood dance classes, window washing, landscaping service and farm support.

“Young entrepreneurs are not only the leaders of tomorrow, but they are also bringing fresh ideas to our region,” says Rose Terry, BAC manager. “The Summer Company Program is giving these six young entrepreneurs the opportunity to gain practical experience in launching and operating a business, while also equipping them with confidence, mentorship, and the skills they need to succeed beyond the program. We’re proud to lead a program that changes lives.”

Allison Adam, CFP Entrepreneurship Officer has been leading the program since May.

“You can really see their confidence build as they take charge of their ideas. It’s not about having everything figured out,” she said. “It’s about making progress, staying curious, and being willing to try.”

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Recipients For Community Futures Peterborough's CAP Funding Announced

Community Futures Peterborough (CFP) has announced the recipients of the 2025 Community Advancement Program (CAP), a non-repayable funding program that supports projects fostering economic stability, investment, and employment across the City of Peterborough and Peterborough County. 

Photo courtesy of CFP.

In celebration of its 40th anniversary, CPF marked the milestone by committing a record-breaking investment of $100,000 to 10 local organizations.

To honour four decades of supporting local businesses, CFP distributed $10,000 in non-repayable funds to each successful applicant through the 2025 Community Advancement Program, resulting in a total investment of $100,000.

This special anniversary initiative highlights CFP’s longstanding commitment to promoting resilient, inclusive, and sustainable communities throughout the region according to the Honourable Evan Solomon, Minister of AI and Digital Innovation and Minister.

“The projects supported through the Community Advancement Program are a testament to the innovation, ambition, and local leadership driving economic growth in Peterborough and the surrounding region,”he said. “Through FedDev Ontario, our government is proud to support the Community Futures Program and invest in the people and organizations creating real momentum. We are empowering local entrepreneurs, generating good jobs, and building a stronger, more resilient economy right here at home during these times of global economic uncertainty.” 

Photo courtesy of CFP.

Funded by the Government of Canada, through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), CAP supports strategic projects that align with CFP's vision for sustainable economic development and regional resilience. The program is designed to create community economic stability, growth, and job creation, develop and diversify competitive rural economies, and foster economically sustainable communities. 

The 2025 CAP recipients are:

• Kawartha-Haliburton Children’s Foundation

• Kawartha Manufacturers Association (KMA)

• Junior Achievement

• Hiawatha First Nation

• Peterborough County

• 4th Line Theatre

• Curve Lake First Nation

• Farms at Work

• New Canadians Centre

• ReFrame Film Festival

“These projects reflect the spirit and mission we had in mind for the Community Advancement Program - to empower local organizations that are creating tangible, positive impacts on the economic landscape of our communities,” said Devon Girard, CFP executive director. “From arts and culture to agriculture, education, and equity, these initiatives are helping shape a vibrant future for both the City of Peterborough and Peterborough County.” 

Photo courtesy of CFP.

The Kawartha-Haliburton Children’s Foundation will use the funds to support a bursary initiative designed to help children who have been involved with Children’s Aid achieve their post-secondary education goals.

“We are so grateful for the funds Community Futures Peterborough is providing to the Kawartha-Haliburton Children’s Foundation through the 2025 Community Advancement Program,” said Carrie Truman, executive director. “Together, we are having a positive impact on the lives of youth who are connected to the Kawartha-Haliburton Children’s Aid Society and pursuing their post-secondary education goals. It is amazing the hurdles these youth have overcome, and so exciting that they are focused on their future by working towards achieving their education goals.” 

Farms at Work will be using funding from the Community Advancement Program to hire a project manager to launch and support their Community Farm. This initiative will provide hands-on, experiential education to aspiring entrepreneurs in agriculture through workshops and guided tours of established farms.

“Farms at Work is grateful to receive this Community Advancement Program funding to support planning of our long-envisioned Community Learning Farm. These funds, along with in-kind support from the Peterborough County Economic Development team and farm owner Jason McIntosh, bring the dream of a place to farm closer for aspiring farmers and will benefit the community for many years to come,” said Heather Thoma, Farms at Work operations manager. "We welcome community participation - whether as volunteers, food growers looking for land and educational support or benefactors.”

The New Canadians Centre will use the funding to advance the goals of the Workplace Inclusion Charter, which include fostering a welcoming and inclusive community, supporting employee attraction and retention, boosting productivity and innovation, and enhancing overall employee well-being.

“Immigration is a key component of the future of our labour force and working age population,” said Andy Cragg, NCC executive director. “The Workplace Inclusion Charter project will help participating local businesses attract and retain immigrant talent while fostering positive workplace experiences for newcomers.”

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Community Future Peterborough Unveils 20 Entrepreneurs For Its 2025 Starter Company Plus Program

Community Future Peterborough’s (CFP) Business Advisory Centre (BAC) has unveiled its 20 businesses selected for its 2025 Starter Company Plus Program, announced at the Venture North Building on Wednesday morning.

The 20 entrepreneurs were gathered at the announcement of the businesses selected for the program. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

CFP received over 70 applications for this year’s cohort.

“This is truly a life-changing program,” said Rosalea Terry, BAC manager. “The quality of applications this year was exceptional, and our selected entrepreneurs represent some of the most committed and determined founders we’ve seen. We are proud to support them on their entrepreneurial journey.”

The Starter Company Plus program helps businesses accelerate their growth with mentorship, training and funding. This provincial government-funded program offers entrepreneurs access to expert guidance, networking opportunities and up to $5,000 in grant funding after completion.

“We’re thrilled to welcome this talented group of entrepreneurs into the 2025 Starter Company Plus program,” said Devon Girard, CFP executive director. “Their creativity, drive, and commitment to growth embody the spirit of entrepreneurship we aim to support. We’re excited to be part of their journey and look forward to their impact on our city and county.”

The 2025 Starter Company Plus Cohort includes:

City of Peterborough Participants:

• Groovy Little Smoothie Co. — Kara Ainsworth

• Stoney Island Studio Live Event Painting and Creative Services — Julie Anastasia McMillan

• The Willow Studio — Angela Demeester

• Architecture of Wellness — Jackie Orsetto

• Wild Woman Ayurveda — Maggie O'Rourke

• Doody Call — Millie Kingston

• Home and Well Inc. (Home & Well) — Kelly Clark

• Common Thread Films — Kait Howell

• Miller Exterior Painting — Dennal Leya Miller

• Burkitt Solutions Co — Brianna Burkitt

• Heeling Souls K9 Training — Alexis Mills

• Joint Venture Inc. o/a Lost Cannabis Company — Brent Morrison

• Layin' Divots — Krista Charette

County of Peterborough Participants:

• Transitions (Tentative Name) — Kelly Gower and Roselyn Rodriquez

• The Forest Hill Lodge — Jacqueline Lyons

• Belmont Farmstead — Amanda O'Rourke

• Urban Roots 47 Salon and Spa — Karen Kearney

• Lark and Lemon — Kristen Offen

• Joint Venture Inc. o/a Lost Cannabis Company — Brent Morrison

• National Touring Museum — Timothy Jeffries

• Millbrook Fit — David Lundrigan

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Community Futures Peterborough Launches New Toolkit to Support Local Businesses With Advice on Managing Tariff Risks

In response to the ongoing trade challenges posed by United States tariffs, Community Futures Peterborough (CFP) has launched the Tariff Toolkit as a strategic resource to support businesses for the community.

Photo courtesy of CFP.

This is a collaboration with the Business Advisory Centre, the City of Peterborough, the County of Peterborough, the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA), and Peterborough + the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce.

CFP says the evolving trade landscape between Canada and the United States has created uncertainty for local businesses. All aforementioned organizations came together at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre to connect businesses with industry experts who provided initial guidance on minimizing the impact of tariffs on March 4. While the specifics of the tariffs may change, the need for businesses to rethink their approach to trade remains constant according to Devon Girard, CFP executive director.

“We have always been mindful of not only the direct impacts tariffs themselves have on businesses but also tariff speculation and lasting change in consumer buying patterns. Those are the effects our area businesses are feeling right now,” she said.

According to CFP, the Tariff Toolkit is a practical resource that helps businesses assess their current trade strategies and explore new opportunities. It will also offer insights and actionable steps that businesses can work on with their advisors to develop a resilient approach to international trade. It is available to all businesses in the City and County of Peterborough.

“Downtown businesses are navigating an increasingly complex trade environment, and the Tariff Toolkit arrives at a critical time,” said Nour Mazloum, Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area executive director. “It equips our businesses with the practical strategies and expert insights they need to adapt, stay competitive, and build long-term resilience. We're proud to support this initiative and ensure our local business community has every opportunity to thrive—no matter the global challenges.”

The Tariff Toolkit offers businesses guidance in key areas, including understanding the financial impact of tariffs, identifying alternative sourcing strategies, expanding customer bases beyond tariff-affected regions, mitigating financial exposure through hedging and risk management, repositioning brand messaging in response to trade shifts, and leveraging local and international partnerships to drive growth.

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Starter Company Plus Applications Open For Entrepreneurs to Help Launch and Grow Their Businesses

The Business Advisory Centre have opened applications for the upcoming Starter Company Plus program cohort that offers entrepreneurs essential tools, mentorship and funding to help grow and launch their businesses.

Photo courtesy of Kayla Le Franc and Community Futures Peterborough

“Starter Company Plus is more than just a program—it’s a transformative experience that reshapes the trajectory of the entrepreneur’s journey,” said Rosalea Terry, Business Advisory Centre manager. “By combining expert-led programming, valuable connections, a supportive cohort of like-minded individuals, and funding opportunities, we empower entrepreneurs with the resources they need to build and scale their businesses with confidence. This program is about more than financial support; it’s about equipping business owners with the tools, knowledge, and network to create lasting success.”

Participants will receive guidance from a seasoned business advisor who will help refine their strategies, build strong financial foundations and develop effective marketing campaigns according to a press release. The program also provides valuable networking opportunities, connecting entrepreneurs with experienced mentors and like-minded peers who have successfully started, expanded, or acquired small businesses.

“The Starter Company Plus program is essential for those looking to become entrepreneurs,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “By providing training, mentoring, and guidance, as well as grants, this initiative will equip individuals with the support they need to grow their businesses, opening up new avenues to transform their ventures into successful enterprises.”

Each entrepreneur will receive a six-month trial membership with the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce for networking opportunities, business advocacy and access to exclusive events. They will also receive a conditionally pre-approved microloan from Community Futures Peterborough.

“Supporting local entrepreneurs is essential for fostering innovation and economic growth in our region,” said Devon Girard, Community Futures Peterborough executive director. “Our first cohort of 21 businesses successfully completed the program with rave reviews and inspiring success stories, proving just how impactful Starter Company Plus can be for businesses. By providing entrepreneurs with expert-led programming, valuable connections, and access to funding, this program is truly transforming businesses and shaping the future of our local economy. We can't wait to see what the next cohort will accomplish."

Eligible applicants must be 18 years or older, based in the City or County of Peterborough and ready to launch a new business or expand an existing one.

Applications can be found online. The deadline to apply is April 2 at 11:59 p.m.

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Community Futures Peterborough’s Business Advisory Centre Launches First Summer Company Program

Community Futures Peterborough’s (CFP) Business Advisory Centre (BAC) has launched the 2025 Summer Company Program with applications open to offer students the tools, guidance and funding needed to transform their business ideas into reality.

Photo courtesy of CFP.

This program helps empower youth to explore entrepreneurship and develop skills to succeed in today’s fast-paced economy. Applicants must be between 15 and 29 years old and returning to school in the fall of 2025.

Six successful applicants through the program receive expert mentoring, valuable resources and financial support. This includes a grant of up to $3,000 to kickstart their small business. The program provides an unparalleled opportunity for participants to build critical entrepreneurial skills while running their businesses during the summer months according to Devon Girard, CFP’s executive director.

“This program is about empowering young people with the confidence, resources, and connections they need to turn their ideas into reality,” she said. “The support provided ensures participants are equipped with the tools to succeed and create a strong foundation for their future.”

The program offers a small, close-knit group of students the chance to receive personalized, one-on-one guidance and mentorship from an experienced advisor with extensive expertise in the entrepreneurial space.

“This is an exciting opportunity for young people to explore entrepreneurship at an early stage,” said Rose Terry, BAC manager. “By giving students the tools, funding, and mentorship they need to create their own jobs, we’re not just helping them succeed for one summer—we’re empowering them to have the confidence to pursue entrepreneurship as a viable career path.   Many participants catch the ‘entrepreneurship bug’ and go on to become business leaders and changemakers in their communities. It’s amazing to see how this program sparks creativity in young minds.”

Full program details and application forms are available online.

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Free Panel Event For Businesses Regarding U.S. Tariff-Proofing to Run March 4

Business owners across Peterborough and the County are invited to attend a panel, ‘Bridging the Divide: Future-Proofing Your Business Against U.S. Tariffs’ to help local businesses navigate the challenges posed by shifting trade policies, announced on Tuesday.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce.

The event is hosted by Community Futures Peterborough (CFP), the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce and the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Association.

The free event runs on March 4 at Market Hall, with doors opening at 8 a.m. Attendees to network over food and drinks before programming begins at 8:30 a.m. The panel discussion will focus on the impact of U.S. tariffs, changes in consumer buying habits and effective strategies for businesses to mitigate risks and adapt to new trade realities, according to Devon Girard, CFP executive director.

“The impact of U.S. tariffs is being felt across our region, and business owners are facing new challenges that require immediate attention,” she said. “We recognized the urgency of this issue and felt it was essential to bring together experts in trade, supply chain management, and finance to provide actionable insights. This panel is a direct response to the concerns we’ve heard from local businesses, and we’re committed to equipping them with the knowledge and strategies they need to navigate these changes successfully.”

The event will begin with opening remarks from Girard, Joel Wiebe of the Peterborough Chamber and Bonnie Clark, Peterborough County Warden. A panel will feature industry experts, including Bob Armstrong, President of Armstrong Trade and Logistics Advisory Services; Andrea Parkes, Professor of Supply Chain at Fleming College; and Sherry Hill, CFO of Peterboro Matboards and Secretary of the Kawartha Manufacturers Association.

“Canada’s supply chains are critical to our country’s economic success but are under constant upheaval due to the complexity of the supply chain, consumers changing purchasing habits, government interventions, wars and labour shortages,” said Armstrong. “Our largest trade flows are South-North-South with our largest trading partner the USA. Will we see a new, larger flow of goods across Canada east to west, west to east as Canadians trade more with each other? Will Canada increase its exports and imports with the Far East and the EU? That can change supply chain patterns too,” he added.

Panellists will explore key topics such as how tariffs disrupt supply chains, strategies for diversifying suppliers, the impact of trade barriers on local businesses and new market opportunities for Canadian exporters throughout the discussion. Local business owners will also share firsthand experiences on how tariffs are affecting their operations and what steps they are taking to adapt to our rapidly changing environment.

“Our local economy is disrupted,” said Wiebe. “Peterborough sells more than $580 million in goods to the US and businesses here rely on American companies for the goods and materials they produce and sell. This is an opportunity to address the risks in our supply chain.”

Registration for the event can be found at CFP’s website.

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Community Futures Peterborough Launches New Advisory Suite For Local Entrepreneur Support

The Business Advisory Centre (BAC) and Community Futures Peterborough (CFP) have officially launched their Advisory Suite to support local entrepreneurs, announced on Monday.

Photo courtesy of Community Futures Peterborough.

The suite is located on the renovated basement level of the Venture North building. It has a fully furnished space equipped with a 360-degree camera device for meetings and virtual workshops, a collaborative workspace and a dedicated confidential advisory area.

“The new Advisory Suite at the Business Advisory Centre will be more than just a meeting space; it’s a haven for creativity, ingenuity, and problem-solving,” says Rose Terry, BAC manager. “Here, we are dedicated to walking alongside entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey—whether starting, growing, or scaling their businesses. This unique expansion of our offices at Venture North are designed to inspire and motivate. It will act as a resource hub with the support needed to turn visions into reality.”

The expansion alleviates the space constraints and enhances CFP’s capacity to deliver tailored support and resources to a rapidly growing number of entrepreneur clients, according to Devon Girard, CFP executive director.

“The Suite reflects our mission to empower entrepreneurs and small businesses by providing them with the advisory services, business programs, and environment they need to succeed,” she said. “It enhances our ability to offer one-on-one guidance and creates a dedicated workshop space allowing for increased collaboration among local business owners.”

Lindsey Irwin, BAC cusiness advisor says the Suite is strategically designed to foster connectivity and accessibility, offering an ideal venue for small workshops, meetings and mentoring sessions.

“We’ve been inundated with business owners, each with unique ideas, hopes, and dreams for their businesses,” she explained. “This space gives them the chance to speak freely and confidentially, fostering genuine conversations and meaningful support.”

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$100,000 Available For Projects Supporting Economic Growth Through Community Futures Peterborough's Advancement Program

Community Futures Peterborough (CFP) is doubling the funding to $100,000 through its Community Advancement Program (CAP) for projects supporting economic growth, announced at the Art Gallery of Peterborough on Tuesday morning.

Girard addresses the public on CFP’s 40th anniversary at the Art Gallery of Peterborough with several dignitaries in attendance. Photo courtesy of Community Futures Peterborough.

The money came from the federal government through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario). The CAP will distribute an astonishing $100,000 to our region's not-for-profits, charities, municipalities and First Nation communities, a doubling from when it was first launched last year.

“Our organization is committed to advancing our local economy forward and is thrilled to be able to distribute $100,000 back into our community this year,” said Devon Girard, CFP executive director. “We fully understand and recognize the impact these dollars can make to create real change.”

The extra funding is part of CFP’s 40th anniversary where the City recognized the organization’s milestone.

“Building on a successful first year, the Community Advancement Program now offers even more support for businesses, non-profits and other eligible organizations to invest in the Peterborough region,” said Mayor Jeff Leal.

“Providing stability, building trust, and fostering a strong reputation in our region are all at the core of what we do at Community Futures Peterborough,” said Wayne Harding, CPF board of directors chair. “It's about giving back and demonstrating unwavering commitment to our community.”

The Community Advancement Program will provide 10 chosen applicants with non-repayable funding of $10,000 for their project.

Applications for the CAP program and full program guidelines are available on the Community Futures Peterborough website. The deadline to apply is March 7. All applicants will be notified by April 1 of the result of their application.

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