Peterborough Blogs
Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring MCI Constructors Inc., Focus Business Lounge and Craftworks at the Barn
/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…
Mortlock Construction Inc., a Peterborough based construction company founded in 1947, has announced a corporate name change to MCI Constructors Inc. Founded as a familyowned business, the company has built a longstanding reputation for quality workmanship, integrity, and reliable project delivery. The change is strictly a corporate name amendment. There has been no change to ownership, staffing, management, services, or operations, and no changes are planned. The company remains the same legal entity, with full continuity across contracts, bonding, and insurance. This exciting change coincides with their move of the physical office from Brown Line to 1985 Lansdowne St. W. A refreshed and modern space represents the next chapter in their growth as a business. For more information you can reach them by calling (705) 745-0579.
Speaking of refreshed… how about completely new?? Aim & Focus Business Solutions will be offering their Graphic Design, Web Design, Automation other business solution services from the Brand New Focus Business Lounge Location at 785 The Kingsway (Opposite Lansdowne Mall). Opening on April 7th the Coworking Spaces, Private Offices, Board Room, Creative Stations, Hotspot Desks for quick in and outs will be available to the Peterborough and area business community. Their Grand opening celebration is at 11 on the 7th and the community is invited to stop by. Visit their website at www.Aimnfocus.com for more details.
A quick shout out to Craftworks at the Barn on Lindsay Road, just 1 km east of Fowlers Corners. in Selwyn Township. Coffee in the County, sponsored by Peterborough County, is a social time for Chamber members and the business community and was hosted there March 31st. Everyone enjoyed the hospitality, the varied products, the Junkin family and their team. One visit was a reminder that it is the most unique shopping destination in the Kawartha Region! Their Canadian Made Mennonite Furniture, Home Decor, Antiques, local Artisans, baked goods and other gourmet food helps us all to continue to keep our dollars and support local… Take a quick trip or check them out at www.thebarn.ca
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.
Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.
Community Futures Peterborough Releases New Lending Guide to Help Entrepreneurs Explore Funding Options
/Community Futures Peterborough (CFP) has released a “Roadmap to Smart Funding” guide to help entrepreneurs and small businesses make more informed financial decisions.
photo courtesy of community futures peterborough.
The guide provides a clear overview of several types of financing that entrepreneurs can explore, including business loans, lines of credit, equity investment and other capital options. Its goal is to help members of the local business community make informed decisions about how to finance their business ideas, expansions, and long-term growth.
“Many entrepreneurs know they need capital, but they aren’t always sure where to start or what type of financing is the right fit,” said Braden Clark, CFP loans manager. “This guide breaks down common funding options in plain language so business owners can better understand the tools available to them and choose the path that supports their goals.”
The guide explains key differences between funding types, including how they work, when they may be appropriate and what business owners should consider before pursuing them. By outlining these options side-by-side, the guide aims to help entrepreneurs compare approaches and identify financing solutions that align with their business model and stage of growth.
While many entrepreneurs are familiar with traditional loans, the guide also introduces other financing strategies that may support business development, such as equity partnerships, flexible financing tools and alternative capital sources.
The guide comes as a response to the uptake from both established and new entrepreneurs asking for more support with their budget, cashflow and overall financial literacy.
“Small businesses are the heartbeat of Peterborough-Kawartha, and our government is committed to ensuring they have the tools to succeed,” says Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “By providing expert advisory services and financial capital under one roof at Community Futures Peterborough, we are making it easier than ever for local entrepreneurs to get the support they need to grow, create jobs and strengthen our community.”
The guide is released as Community Futures Peterborough completes its fiscal year at the end of March, having issued a historic number of loans: 54 new loans to businesses and entrepreneurs in our region.
“We continue to see significant and increased demand for our services, both on the business advisory and financial advisory services,” said Devon Girard, CFP executive director. “This guide is designed to help entrepreneurs feel confident navigating the financial side of building a business and help them feel empowered in strengthening their financial position.”
The Roadmap to Smart Funding guide can be downloaded online through the Community Futures Peterborough website. Free hard copies are also available for pick-up at the CFP office (270 George St N.) in Downtown Peterborough.
Five Counties Recognized with Second Consecutive Chamber of Commerce Award
/Five Counties Children’s Centre has been recognized for a second consecutive year at the Northumberland Business Achievement Awards for its work to improve support for kids and their families in the local community.
photo courtesy of Five Counties.
The Northumberland Central Chamber of Commerce (NCCC) named Five Counties as the winner of its 2026 Health and Wellness Award, which recognizes a business or organization that provides excellence in its work supporting physical and mental health and wellbeing for its customers or clients. This is the second straight year Five Counties has been honoured by the NCCC, as the Centre won the Not-for-Profit of the Year Award last year at these awards.
“These back-to-back Business Achievement Awards are a testament to the incredible work our Five Counties staff do to continue innovating and providing evidence-based, life-changing treatment services for children and youth with physical, developmental and communication needs in Northumberland County,” says Scott Pepin, CEO of Five Counties. “This recognition shows the level of excellence that people have come to expect and know is being delivered by our staff in Northumberland, to not only improve services, but reduce wait times.”
In announcing Five Counties as winner of the 2026 Health and Wellness Award, the Northumberland Central Chamber of Commerce noted, “In the past year, Five Counties has delivered meaningful results for children and families across our region.” The chamber cited the “most notable achievement” being the creation and official opening of a fully accessible outdoor therapy and play space at the Five Counties site in Cobourg.
“Transforming an underused area into an inclusive environment expands treatment options and enhances the client experience,” the chamber noted. “At the same time, (Five Counties) responded to record demand by increasing clinical capacity, strengthening recruitment and retention, and implementing innovative service models, resulting in a measurable reduction in wait times. Five Counties continues to improve access to care and deliver lasting impact for the families they serve.”
During the 2025 calendar year, Five Counties served 1,876 kids and their families in Northumberland County. Services including physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech language-therapy were provided by Five Counties staff from its Centre sites in Cobourg and Campbellford, in local schools and in the community.
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.
Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.
Heming Landscape Equipment Recognized As Authorized John Deere Dealer For 50 Years
/Heming Landscape Equipment hit the 50-year milestone as an authorized John Deere dealer and was formally recognized with the distinction at their store on Wednesday.
Photo by David Tuan Bui.
The business was founded in 1952 by Frank and Betty Heming, under the ownership of Scott and Donna Heming. The business and became a John Deere dealer in 1976.
“It was an opportunity we couldn't pass up,” explained Drew Heming of Heming Landscape Equipment. “It's a good quality product with a well-established name and you don't let an opportunity like that pass you by. I’m very proud to be a John Deere dealer.”
Photo by David Tuan Bui.
Heming Landscape Equipment has been one of the longest-running lawn and garden equipment dealers in the Peterborough area, spanning three generations as a family-owned business. Drew has been part of the Heming for the past 20 years.
“My grandparents were farmers from Guelph, moved to Peterborough and started to get into the automated farming industry and electronic milking equipment,” said Drew. “Then they realized that farmers needed equipment, so they started to sell lawnmowers, chainsaws, garden tractors, tillers, everything that farmers might need.”
The business sells John Deere lawnmowers and snowplows.
Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.
Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring REIF Funding, New Coworking Launch, and Anchor Gear's Boat Show Triumph
/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…
Welcome to the latest edition of Business Beat, your go-to roundup of exciting developments shaping the Peterborough and Kawarthas business landscape. Fresh ideas take root as the long-awaited warm weather arrives, especially those that drive positive environmental change.
Nurturing Green Innovation: Apply to the Rotary Environmental Innovators Fund (REIF) before April 2
A standout opportunity is blooming right now through the Rotary Environmental Innovators Fund (REIF), a collaborative initiative from the Rotary Clubs of Peterborough, Peterborough-Kawartha, and Bridgenorth-Ennismore-Lakefield. This fund empowers students, entrepreneurs, small businesses, and community leaders by offering funding (grants up to several thousand dollars in past cycles), mentorship, and increased visibility for projects that deliver innovative, measurable solutions to environmental challenges.
Whether you're developing cleantech, sustainable practices, or local eco-initiatives that benefit our region and beyond, REIF is designed to help your vision grow. Applications are open now, but the time is short—the deadline is April 2, 2026. Winners will be celebrated at an upcoming reception. Learn more and apply today on the official site: https://peterboroughrotary.ca/page/environmental-innovation-project
As environmental ideas grow, we are also excited about the growth of a new infrastructure to support business growth.
A Fresh Hub for Collaboration: Focus Business Lounge Grand Opening on April 7
Excitement is building for the grand opening of the Focus Business Lounge, presented by Aim & Focus Business Solutions. This modern coworking space is set to become a dynamic hub for entrepreneurs, startups, and established businesses seeking collaboration, innovation, and professional growth.
Mark your calendars: the official grand opening is scheduled for April 7, 2026, at 11:00 AM. Located at B-785 The Kingsway, Peterborough (near Lansdowne Mall). Expect a welcoming environment complete with day office rentals, hourly options, creative stations, mailbox services, and more—perfect for networking and productivity in the heart of the city.
The Peterborough and Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce will be attending to join in the ribbon-cutting festivities, highlighting the event as a key boost to local business development.
Ready to explore this new beginning? You're invited to reach out directly via email at aimnfocus@gmail.com or visit their website for full details and updates: aimnfocus.com.
The entrepreneurial scene in our community continues to make waves—both figuratively and literally.
Riding the Wave: Anchor Gear Co. Shines at the 2026 Toronto International Boat Show
Closer to home in the Kawarthas, Anchor Gear Co.—the premier nautical lifestyle brand based at 46 Fire Route 82 in Buckhorn-turned triumphant at the 2026 Toronto International Boat Show (TIBS), North America's largest indoor boat show. The event attracted thousands of boating enthusiasts and featured over 500 exhibitors displaying boats, gear, accessories, and innovations.
Owner and operator Amanda Fydirchuk reported an electric atmosphere, with meaningful connections being forged among boaters and businesses from across Ontario. Anchor Gear Co.'s presence not only showcased premium, Canadian-made apparel designed for life on and off the water but also proudly put the Peterborough-Kawarthas region in the spotlight.
Celebrate this local success and gear up with their collection. Visit anchorgearco.com to browse boating-inspired apparel built for adventure.
Our business community is characterized by creativity, resilience, and forward momentum. Spring is truly a season of growth and we can’t wait to see what happens next.
Have a business milestone, upcoming event, or community initiative you'd like to share? We'd love to feature it in the next Business Beat. Drop us the details at businessbeatptbo@gmail.com.
Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.
Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Empowering Women, Celebrating Marketing Milestones and Local Auctioneers
/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…
Welcome to this month's roundup of inspiring local business stories from the Peterborough + Kawarthas region! We are excited to share the latest updates that showcase our community's strength, innovation, and commitment to progress.
Empowering Voices: A Must-Attend Conversation on the Status of Women in Our Community
As we kick off spring, local leaders gather to discuss the realities, achievements, ongoing challenges, and future opportunities for women in our region.
Hosted by the Honourable Maryam Monsef through her organization ONWARD, and presented in partnership with the Peterborough + Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce, this community gathering features a panel of diverse local voices. It's an invaluable chance to hear honest insights and actionable ideas that can drive positive change.
Event Details:
Date & Time: Tuesday, March 31, 2026, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM (some sources note slight variations to 1:00 PM or 2:00 PM—confirm on registration)
Location: Market Hall Performing Arts Centre, Peterborough
Tickets: Just $49.95 plus HST
