Peterborough Blogs
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.
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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Siemens Canada Consolidating Operations; Moving 160 Jobs Away From Peterborough
/Siemens Canada is relocating approximately 160 manufacturing positions from its Peterborough plant over the next two years as part of a broader global consolidation effort, announced on Wednesday.
Formerly known as Milltronics Ltd., Siemens acquired all of the former’s all outstanding common stock shares in 2000. Photo: Google Maps
Also known as Siemens Milltronics Process Instruments Inc., it is located at 1954 Technology Drive and is known for developing ultrasonic level measurement technology for process automation, focusing on industry, infrastructure, mobility and healthcare.
According to a press release, the decision was to optimize and consolidate the manufacturing capacities of two Siemens factories within its Digital Industries business in Canada in Peterborough and Concord. They add that these actions are necessary for Siemens' industrial automation business to become more competitive in a challenging market environment with increased competitive pressures. These measures are effective and are expected to be completed by September 2027.
During the transition, manufacturing is winding down at its Peterborough factory. The manufacturing of Measurement Intelligence technologies in Peterborough is moving to Concord. The Measurement Intelligence business roles, including product management and research and development teams, are planned to remain in Peterborough, according to Siemens.
Forty employees are being retained in Peterborough as the company looks to lease its facility to another manufacturer. The City’s Economic Development Division has already connected with Siemens and a new tenant is being sought as soon as possible, as stated in a press release.
“The company and its employees have consistently donated their time and money to charitable causes in our community, including the Salvation Army and the Peterborough Humane Society, “said Mayor Jeff Leal. “While the company is reducing its presence in Peterborough, it remains committed to our community as part of its global corporate restructuring.”
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Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring New Canadians Centre, The Chocolate Rabbit, On Point Kitchen and Kawartha Wellness Summit
/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…
June 27 is Canadian Multiculturalism Day and the New Canadians Centre are putting on their fourth annual Canadian Multiculturalism Festival from 2 to 6 p.m.
The block party includes a talent show, multicultural crafts, henna, face painting, a bouncy castle, and delicious food. Check out the Cultural Fair to learn about some of Peterborough’s multicultural and faith-based groups and their programming. You will have an opportunity to get festival-branded t-shirts and tote bags. Come out and support the New Canadian Centre, an organization that served more than 2,000 clients from more than 99 countries in the last year.
The Chocolate Rabbit just opened a new location at 749 Erskine Avenue in Peterborough.
This is a move from their previous location in East City. It’s great to see a local business like this continue to grow. They also have stores at 11 Queen St. in Lakefield and 16 Bridge St. W. in Bancroft. They are a family-owned and operated handcrafted Swiss chocolate factory making their own unique confections. The Chocolate Rabbit is your place for delectable treats, from rich chocolates, to creamy truffles, to mouthwatering fudge. Drop by any of their three locations and get some high-quality artisan chocolate as a gift or to treat yourself.
2024 Starter Company graduate Elena Thomas is opening a new culinary destination in Lakefield.
On Point Kitchen and Catering is now open at 15 Charlotte St. On Point brings a fresh take on locally prepared meals with a focus on private chef and catering services, gourmet frozen meals, a vibrant lunch counter, and fusion-style sandwiches. Drop by for a quick bite or relaxing meal. The bakery offers a selection of sweets. On Point Kitchen and Catering serves the Lakefield, Peterborough, and surrounding communities with tailored meal options to match your event, diet and schedule.
The Kawartha Wellness Summit is coming up July 6 at Kawartha Downs.
Kawartha Downs will be transformed into a vibrant hub for connection, creativity, and community empowerment that redefines what self-care and wellness can look like. The full-day summit will feature nearly 20 vendors, 10 workshops, and 10 speakers that will explore health, wellness, self-care, and fitness.
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 joel@pkchamber.ca.
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PTBOSpotlight: Shop the Lake
/Welcome to PTBOSpotlight! Every Friday, this segment showcases a business or organization in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. You will have the opportunity to learn more about the people behind the organization and the work they do for our community.
This week, we are featuring Shop the Lake. The local business is owned Niki and Jason Pulchinski.
Shop the Lake is a patio furniture and lifestyle store in Peterborough, located at 1525 Chemong Rd.
“Shop The Lake offers a great selection of outdoor furniture and shade solutions for homes, cottages and businesses,” said Denise Gater, Shop The Lake’s head buyer and design director. “We have many suppliers and price points with both in stock and special-order options. Our knowledgeable staff can help customers make the best selection for their particular space taking style and functionality into consideration. We offer a complimentary design service for those requiring extra help planning a new build project or refresh of a current space.”
Gater says the store is unique as Shop The Lake is the only dedicated outdoor furniture store in the area.
“Niki and Jason Pulchinski purchased the building to house their other businesses and decided before taking possession that they would open an outdoor furniture retail business as there had been one at the location for over 20 years,” she explained. They renovated and updated the showroom and added an outdoor space to display the beautiful products that are offered.”
Even though patios are seasonal, that does not slow down Shop the Lake as they get creative and festive during the holidays.
“When patio season winds down, Shop The Lake becomes a beautifully curated Christmas Boutique showcasing decorations, décor, gifts and treats,” said Gater. “The highlight is the arrival of hundreds of beautiful live Christmas trees delivered fresh from Nova Scotia.”
Whether you live in the city, at the cottage, in a condo or a family home, Shop the Lake offers furniture suited to your lifestyle.
“Our goal is to provide the best quality outdoor furniture, shade solutions and accessories at the best value with excellent product knowledge and personal service,” concluded Gater.
To learn more about Shop the Lake, find it online:
Website: www.shopthelake.ca
Instagram: @shopthelake
Facebook: Shop the Lake
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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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Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring KMA, Farm Dog Boarding, Habitat For Humanity and Lakefield Business Social
/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…
The Kawartha Manufacturers Association are holding their Annual General Meeting on Thursday at 3:30 p.m. at Jesse’s Tap and Grill in Ennismore.
Their guest speaker is renowned supply chain expert Bob Armstrong. Bob is the President at Atlas and brings 50 years of experience in global supply chain management, international trade, and cross-border logistics. Even if you’re not in the manufacturing industry, it’s well worth going to the KMA AGM and hearing from one of Canada’s top experts North American trade. Go to thekma.com to get your tickets.
There’s a new business dedicated to pet comfort.
Farm Dog Boarding is a small, intimate kennel that believes in quality not quantity, boarding only four to six pups at a time. They are located on a beautiful farm where dogs can relax and enjoy time outdoors. The kennel includes a four-acre fenced off-leash area where your dog can run and play freely. There is a separate area for smaller dogs to ensure they can play in a safe environment. There are also scenic walking trails to explore. You can find them online at farmdogboarding.com or drop by their location at 1594 Keene Rd., just south of Peterborough.
A big shout out to Mario Zambonin who was recently recognized for 15 years working with Habitat for Humanity.
He’s worked with Habitat in Prince Edward Island, 1,000 Islands, and of course, here in Peterborough. He has been volunteering with Habitat for 23 years. Mario, we appreciate your dedication to helping people attain affordable home ownership.
There’s a Lakefield Business Social coming up June 25 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Kawartha Lakes Construction at 3359 Lakefield Rd.
Hosted by the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce, the event will feature games, door prizes, food, and more. It’s the kick-off to summer networking event you don’t want to miss. Have something you would like to promote to local businesses? Bring a door prize to add to the giveaways. Register at pkchamber.ca.
Speaking of events you don’t want to miss…
Make sure you come out to the annual Living Well Seniors Showcase this Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre.
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 joel@pkchamber.ca.
Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for PTBOBuzz newsletter here.
PTBOSpotlight: Avant-Garden Shop
/Welcome to PTBOSpotlight! Every Friday, this segment showcases a business or organization in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. You will have the opportunity to learn more about the people behind the organization and the work they do for our community.
This week, we are featuring the Avant-Garden Shop. First opened in 2002 on George Street by Brenda Ibey and a business partner, the business relocated to Sherbrooke Street in 2006. Ibey assumed full ownership in 2007.
Photo by David Tuan Bui.
Located at 165 Sherbrooke St. in Peterborough, the shop specializes in gardening, birding and Canadian-made gifts.
“We sell gardening tools, outdoor wall décor as well as bird feeders, bird food and pole systems,” said Ibey. “Over the years, we have gathered a large collection of beautiful works from various local and Canadian artists. These items include quirky garden art, cards, wind chimes, soaps, coasters, pewter, concrete sculptures and a large selection of wall art.”
Ibey says she prides her shop on keeping a majority of items Canadian in her store.
“Products come from just about every province: Ontario, Nova Scotia, PEI, Newfoundland, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Alberta. In addition, some items come from the USA and others are fair trade,” she explained. “Canadian-made, fair trade and an eye to high quality are what make the Avant-Garden Shop a very popular gift shop in the region.”
