Peterborough Blogs
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
Secure your spot today and join the conversation! Visit the Chamber's events page at pkchamber.ca/events or check the specific listing for "A Conversation About the Status of Women in Our Community".
This event is a perfect example of how our community continues to prioritize equity and inclusion—don't miss it!
Celebrating a Decade of Marketing Excellence: acorn30 Turns 10
In other exciting local news, one of Peterborough's standout marketing agencies is reaching a major milestone. Founded in 2016, acorn30 has evolved into a trusted full-service partner, helping businesses, public-sector organizations, and community leaders build stronger brands, refine strategies, and create lasting foundations for success.
As they mark 10 incredible years, the team is expanding their strategic advisory services to provide even greater clarity and alignment for owners and leaders navigating growth. A heartfelt thank-you goes out from acorn30 to their loyal clients, collaborators, and the broader Peterborough business community for their continued trust and partnership.
Congratulations on a decade of impact—here's to many more years of helping local organizations thrive! Learn more about their services and story at acorn30.com.
Local Auction Leader Honored: Jason McIntosh Named 2026 Member of the Year
Finally, a big congratulations to one of our own in the auction community! Jason McIntosh of JMAC Auctions (located on Matchett Line in Peterborough) was recently awarded the prestigious 2026 Member of the Year by the Auctioneers Association of Ontario at their annual convention banquet.
This well-deserved recognition highlights Jason's dedication, professionalism, and contributions to the industry. It's a proud moment for the entire Peterborough + Kawarthas business scene.
Discover more about their services and upcoming auctions at jmacauctions.com.
Share Your Story – We Want to Hear from You!
The Peterborough business landscape is vibrant and always evolving. If your organization, startup, milestone, or community event deserves some well-earned recognition, we'd love to feature it in the next Business Beat.
Simply send the details to businessbeatptbo@gmail.com, and you could be spotlighted soon next. We will see you next week!
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 Peterborough Museum & Archives, Butterfly Run and Community Futures Peterborough
/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…
Business Beat: Dinosaurs, Community Events, and Entrepreneurial Success in Peterborough
The prehistoric era may be long gone, but dinosaur-sized excitement is still stomping through Peterborough.
The blockbuster “Carnivorous Dinosaurs” exhibit at the Peterborough Museum & Archives continues to draw crowds and will run until March 22. The exhibit features life-sized skeletons of theropods like Tyrannosaurus rex and Allosaurus, along with touchable fossil replicas and bilingual interpretive panels that bring the prehistoric hunt to life.
Since opening last fall, the exhibit has welcomed a steady stream of visitors, including many families eager for a winter adventure. Recent events, such as the packed Dinosaur Story Time and Craft session, showed just how popular the attraction has become with kids and dinosaur enthusiasts alike. Admission is a suggested $20 donation per group, and visitors can catch the exhibit at 300 Hunter Street East during March Break before these Mesozoic giants disappear for good.
But that is not the only local event that is encouraging residents to take part in a meaningful community tradition.
The Butterfly Run returns for its 10th anniversary on April 26 at Millennium Park. The annual event raises funds for bereavement and family health programs through Greater Peterborough Health Services Foundation and Your Family Health Team Foundation.
Participants can choose from several ways to take part, including a 5K run or walk, the 1K Kids Fun Run, or the free Memorial Walk. Virtual participation options are also available. Registration is now open, and anyone hoping to receive an official race shirt is encouraged to sign up by April 6.
Meanwhile, new entrepreneurs are making strides in the business community.
Community Futures Peterborough recently wrapped up its NEXT Program—short for New Entrepreneurial eXploration Training—which helps individuals explore business ownership after job loss or career transitions. The first 2026 cohort saw seven participants complete the program after attending workshops on business planning, cash flow management, marketing, and participating in a final Pitch Day.
Graduates include Kari Walmsley of Kari’s Glass Works, Ryan Douglas of Hilltop Land Clearing, Steve French—also known as The Plant Guy, Lori Alexander of ALT Accounting, Peter Falconeri of Side Hustle Apparel, Yomi Olaoye of MantaHQ, and Sara O. Shahsavari of Borderless. The program aims to help turn fresh ideas into viable businesses, strengthening the local economy in the process.
Residents interested in learning more about the program or supporting these new ventures can visit Community Futures Peterborough online for additional details.
And finally, if your business or community event deserves a moment in the spotlight, the Business Beat team wants to hear from you. Send your information to businessbeatptbo@gmail.com and your story could be featured in an upcoming edition.
That’s the Business Beat for this week.
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 the City's Green Bin Pilot and International Women's Day Celebrations
/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…
Downtown Restaurants: Go Green with Phase 2 of the City’s Green Bin Pilot
Peterborough restaurants have a fresh opportunity to lead the way in sustainability. The City of Peterborough is launching Phase 2 of its successful Green Bin program—a voluntary pilot targeting approximately 25 downtown restaurants to divert food scraps and organics from landfills. Restaurants generate 10–25 kg of organics daily, so this pilot will help the city refine collection logistics for high-volume commercial zones and prepare for broader rollout. Participation is completely voluntary, reduces your garbage load, and contributes to a cleaner, greener Peterborough. If you’re a downtown restaurant, apply now—the deadline is March 6 at peterborough.ca/greenbin.
International Women’s Day: Two Powerful Ways to Celebrate
March 8 is International Women’s Day, and Peterborough is marking the occasion with inspiring events.
The Tiffany Show returns for its 3rd annual free International Women’s Day Party, hosted by the dynamic Tiffany Arcari at The Venue downtown. This sold-out event promises high energy with powerful stories from local women, the transformative Self-Love Mirror experience, epic prizes, swag bags, and more. If you secured a ticket, remember to bring a menstrual product donation to support United Way’s Period Promise and help end period poverty. Check out thetiffanyshow.ca for all the details.
For those who didn’t get a ticket, there’s still a meaningful way to celebrate. On Saturday, March 7, join the community rally and gathering to honour women’s achievements and highlight this year’s theme: strengthening access to justice for women and girls. The day starts at 11:30 a.m. at City Hall with drumming, a declaration reading, and poetry, followed by a march downtown. The afternoon features live music, inspiring speakers, and community connection—all free. Registration is required at ptbolibrary.ca/libcal.com.
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.
Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Community Futures Peterborough, Fastsigns and Kawartha Local Food Wholesale
/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…
Summer Company Program is Open
A sure sign that the seasons are changing is that applications are now open for the 2026 Summer Company Program through Community Futures Peterborough.
Students aged 15 to 29 in Peterborough and the county are encouraged to apply for up to $3,000 in grants, plus training and mentorship, to start their own summer business. Funded by the Province of Ontario, it builds hands-on experience for young entrepreneurs returning to school in the fall. Deadline is April 30, so head over to www.communityfuturespeterborough.ca/programs/summercompany to find out more…
New Ownership For Fastsigns
FASTSIGNS, a Peterborough Signage provider is being acquired by a group of franchise specialists, bringing in new investment and leadership to support growth and expand capacity for commercial clients across the region.
The centre has been purchased by a consortium led by industry expert Paul Watson and print-industry veteran Bill Goss, who will also serve as general manager. Operating in Peterborough since 2005, FASTSIGNS delivers bespoke signage and visual communications for local government, construction, retail, and large-scale brand rollouts. You can learn more about FASTSIGNS by going to www.fastsigns.com/Peterborough-ON
Kawartha Local Food Wholesale
Peterborough County is boosting its farm economy by promoting the Kawartha Local Food Wholesale program.
This initiative, funded in part by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, connects over 800 local farms across 180,000 acres with buyers like restaurants, retailers, food services, tourist spots and golf courses in Peterborough County, the City of Peterborough and Kawartha Lakes. There is nothing like local Farm to Table meals and you can learn more about them by checking out www.grazeandgatherfood.ca or www.Kawarthachoice.com
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.
Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Quickmill, City of Peterborough and K9 Health In Motion
/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…
Quickmill is Headed on a Trade Mission
Local company Quickmill has been selected to join one of the largest government-led trade missions Canada has ever sent to Mexico between Feb. 15 to 20. Quickmill, based right here in Peterborough for over 40 years, is a world leader in building large-scale CNC machining centers — which are powerful machines that cut and shape metal parts for industries like aerospace, oil and gas, mining and defense.
This comes as Quickmill uses a smart diversified growth plan to stay strong amid trade challenges. Only a select group of top export-ready firms were chosen. To learn more about this read their recent blog post on www.quickmill.com/blog
New Plough Map for the City of Peterborough
We have had a winter, and the City of Peterborough has launched a new interactive snowplow map to help residents and businesses track winter maintenance in real time.
Introduced in early February, the online tool uses GPS technology to show where plows are and how recently roads have been serviced, with updates every five minutes and colour-coded routes across the city.
It highlights priority areas like arterial roads, transit routes, and neighbourhood streets, giving a clearer picture of snow-clearing operations. To see the map in action visit www.Peterborough.ca/snow
Canine Rehabilitation is Coming to the County
A new canine rehabilitation and wellness centre is opening in Norwood. K9 in Motion Wellness Rehab officially opens its doors March first, offering services to support dogs recovering from injury, managing mobility issues, or simply aging comfortably. The facility will provide therapeutic massage, red light therapy, mobility aids, pet first-aid courses, and educational sessions for owners.
Operating since 2016, this new location is designed to give dogs individualized care in a calm, supportive environment while helping pet owners stay informed. Visit their website k9inmotionwellness.ca to learn more about their services and stay tuned for their grand opening.
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.
PTBOSpotlight: Peterborough Used Tires
/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 Peterborough Used Tires.
Established in 2003, Peterborough Used Tires had exclusively sold and serviced quality used tires. In 2005, at the customers' request, the business began carrying and selling new tires.
“We do everything tires. We sell used and new tires and rims of all brands and sizes for automotive needs. We also repair, balance and install tires and new this year we provide seasonal storage,” said Chris of Peterborough Used Tires. “We carry the Kawartha's largest inventory of quality used tires with a Lifetime Warranty included as long as you own your car. We also partner with the leading distributors in Ontario to provide all brands and models of new tires which can be ordered for same or next day delivery.
In 2012, Peterborough relocated to a 10,000 sq/ft. facility at 810 Rye St.
“We returned to what we do best: providing the best and biggest variety of tires to customers and repairing tires, we no longer do general auto repairs and have put all of our focus on tires,” said Chris. “We also added custom wheels and accessories to our lineup. Fast forward to now, we’ve come a long way in the 20 years we’ve served Peterborough and the surrounding area, and we only have our customers to thank.”
In 2025, Peterborough Used Tires was acquired with several enhancements made.
“We created a new brand logo and gave the entire store a facelift. We have upgraded all of our technology, inventory databases, scheduling and pricing tools,” said Chris. “We also expanded our services to include seasonal storage of tires as well as a Lifetime Road Hazard Warranty included with every purchase.”
“It has been a very busy and productive year,” concluded Chris. “We can’t thank our loyal customers enough for continuing to support our growth.
To learn more about Peterborough Used Tires, find it online:
Website: www.peterboroughusedtires.ca
Instagram: @ptbo.usedtires
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.
PTBOSpotlight: Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles
/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 Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles. It is owned and operated by Ross Elson.
Located on 182 Charlotte St. in Downtown Peterborough, Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles has autographed memorabilia, jerseys, collectible sports cards and more.
“We look forward to building a community of collectors right here in Peterborough, offering an extensive inventory of sports cards, autographed memorabilia, jerseys and more,” said Elson. “Our team offer their experience and knowledge to help you find what you are looking for. Whether you are collecting your favourite team, completing your checklist or on the hunt for rare cards or memorabilia.”
Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles have joined forces with MNT Grading Inc. and is now also an Authorized PSA Dealer. They provide a full-service drop-off for your collectible sports cards to be graded. Grading your cards protects your investment and has been proven to increase the value of cards in the secondary market.
“As far as services go, being an authorized PSA Dealer is a very big deal for a shop, we are the only one in our area and it took us the better part of a year to go through the process of becoming authorized,” explained Elson.
Elson's passion for collecting hockey cards started when he was a kid, starting with the 1979-80 O-Pee-Chee set. After having children, his interest was reinvigorated and he collected cards with them. After years of collecting and visiting expos, the hobby quickly grew into a business which launched in 2019.
While you can collect from your favourite major sports teams, Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles also adds in the local flavour as a spot to collect Peterborough Petes apparel, memorabilia and more.
“We have an excellent relationship with the Peterborough Petes and after each game we sponsor and Autograph Signing Table,” explained Elson. “Kids, Families, and Fans line up after the game for a different payer each night who comes out to sign autographs. With the Petes we provide co-branded Peterborough Petes Hockey Cards free of charge to the fans for the specific player that participates each night. In addition, fans can bring their own memorabilia; such as a jersey or puck for the player to sign, also free of charge.”
Want to get together with other collectors to find that special something? Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles regularly host trade nights at the shop for those to get together during the NHL season and share in the hobby.
To learn more about Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles, find it online:
Website: www.sportcollectibles.ca
Facebook: Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles
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.
PTBOSpotlight: Shannon McCracken Voice Studio
/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 Shannon McCracken Voice Studio. It is owned by singer, actor, voice-over artist and teacher Shannon McCracken.
McCracken has performed across Canada and is equally at home in plays and musicals, film and TV and on the concert stage. Since opening her voice studio in 2014, she has brought her years of experience to those exploring their voices.
“I primarily teach voice lessons but also workshops and masterclasses, with a focus on singing, acting through song and audition technique,” explained McCracken. “As a teacher, I’ve been an adjudicator for the Kiwanis Music Festival, worked as the voice and music director for Thomas A Secondary School's musical theatre program and created and directed Theatre Art Training Academy’s summer intensive program and show.”
McCracken has launched her new kids' singing course, “Explore Your Voice!”
This dynamic singing course is designed to ignite a love for music and singing in kids aged 6-12. Through fun, interactive lessons, children will explore their vocal potential, gain new skills, access more sound and range and boost their confidence.
Whether you are a complete beginner or a budding vocalist, this program provides a supportive, encouraging environment to discover the joy of singing.
“Join the adventure and watch your child's voice soar,” said McCracken. “Explore Your Voice! is more than just lessons; it's a journey of musical discovery and self-expression. Let the singing begin!”
