Innovation Cluster First Rural Organization In Canada To Offer Start-Up Visa Program

The Innovation Cluster is now among only 31 current other business incubators across Canada designated to offer the Start-up Visa Program.

They are also the first rural organization in Canada to offer the Start-up Visa Program, allowing immigrant entrepreneurs to build businesses in Canada that are innovative, can create jobs for Canadians and that can compete on a global scale.

Photo courtesy Innovation Cluster

The Innovation Cluster, along with other Business Incubators, Venture Capital Funds and Angel Investor Groups, have been designated to accept proposals by entrepreneurs with an innovative business idea.

There is an extensive application process that can take anywhere from 12 to 16 months. If the business in question meets all of the eligibility criteria provided by the Government of Canada and the Innovation Cluster supports the proposal, a letter of support will be provided to go along with the applicant’s full Start-up Visa application. Other requirements include having a qualifying business, meeting the language requirements and enough money to settle. 

Photo courtesy Innovation Cluster

“This is a win for the region,” says John Gillis, President of the Innovation Cluster. “The Innovation Cluster has been working for years to receive this game changing designation so that we can bring more innovation and high-tech job opportunities to Peterborough and the Kawarthas. We could not be more excited to begin rolling out the program.”

This program will bring many benefits to the region including bringing the best and brightest minds from around the world. It enables immigrant entrepreneurs to launch innovative companies that will create jobs locally and compete globally, provides entrepreneurs with valuable assistance in navigating the Canadian business landscape which can sometimes be challenging for newcomers and it will provide private sector firms with access to a broader range of entrepreneurs. 

The region is already known for its large immigration population including entrepreneurs. In the Peterborough’s New Canadians Centre Annual General Report this year, 1,147 clients were served from 78 countries to date since 2018. 

Designated organizations are able to customize their own eligibility requirements for accepting those out of the program. Key requirements for the Innovation Cluster include:

• Ownership of a business that is generating revenue that is scalable, sustainable, and in one of Innovation Cluster’s four key sectors or have intellectual property behind the business. 

• Applicant is willing to live and work in Peterborough and Kawartha Region in Ontario.

• Applicant is willing to work/co-locate at the Innovation Cluster for the first year of operation in the province, and sign a one year Innovation Cluster service contract.

Those that are interested in applying can provide the Innovation Cluster with more information in order to be personally contacted when the program officially launches early 2021. For more information, click here.

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StoosNews Spotlight: Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Creative Kwe, Uride & More!

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

Uride is Canada’s fasted growing ride-hailing company, and they are coming to Peterborough. Originating in Thunder Bay, the company has been working with the City for a number of months and they expect to be able to launch by the Christmas season. Meanwhile they are recruiting Peterborough drivers. There is full information on the requirements for drivers, as well as a downloadable app for riders, at uridetech.com.

Ashley Lamothe has been busy developing new programming for her business Creative Kwe. Ashley specializes in workshops, creativity coaching and online courses that all focus on unleashing that creative spark in all of us. Ashley has a free webinar on Creative Workplace Wellness Programs tomorrow (November 17) from 12 – 1, a design your own personal roadmap workshop on November 25th, and she has just launched a new side-business making handcrafted resin keychains called ResiNation. Check it all out at creativekwe.ca.

Cahill’s, as a local retailer of Nobis outerwear, is participating in their annual “No Cold Shoulder” campaign. Teaming up with Cameron House, Cahill’s is encouraging everyone to drop off their gently-used, winter coats at their store on Hunter Street in Peterborough. Anyone who drops off a coat in November will get a ballot for a chance to win a $250 in-store credit. Donated coats will be cleaned by Grainger’s Cleaners and donated to Cameron House in Peterborough. Cahills.ca for details, or just stop in.

And congratulations to Raycroft Financial Planning on their new location. After 10 years at the corner of Charlotte and Park, the firm has moved to 890 High Street, in the former Kawartha Credit Union Building. Started by Bill Raycroft, the company is now run by Bill and Noreen’s son and daughter Dan and Lynn, specializing in professional financial planning, for tax, retirement, estate and investments, as well as insurance, education funding and more. Raycroftfinancial.com

Lynn

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Kawartha Craft Beer Festival Launches Holiday Craft Beer Box, 18 Of Ontario’s Best Craft Breweries Featured

The Kawartha Craft Beer Festival has launched the 2020 Holiday Craft Beer Box, featuring 18 of Ontario’s best craft breweries paired with delicious local food. 

In partnership with Electric City Works, customers can choose from three different pre-selected 6-pack options, or choose to try some new beer styles with the mystery 12-pack. Each box has been paired with a yummy local food selection.

Participating breweries include the following: Bancroft Brewing Company, Bobcaygeon Brewing Company, Boshkung Brewing, Brock Street Brewing, Eastbound Brewing, Fenelon Falls Brewing, Henderson Brewing, Highlander Brewing Co, Lake of Bays Brewery, Little Beasts Brewing, Market Brewing Company, Lindsay Brewing Company, Publican House Brewery, Sawdust City Brewing, The Second Wedge Brewing Company, Smithavens Brewing Company, Thornbury Craft Brewing and Wild Card Brewing Company.

Each beer pack comes with delicious food options from local vendors, including donuts from Two Dishes Cookshop, butter tarts from Doo Doo’s Bakery, homemade breadsticks and dip from South Pond Farms and Charcuterie board from The Cheese Shop—all paired with beer options. 

You can order online here,  and orders are available for pick up throughout December at Electric City Works.

Delivery is available for Peterborough and surrounding regions. Customers can also direct questions via email to info@kawarthacraftbeerfestival.com.

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Donation Of Birdfeeders Made To Residents Of Hospice Peterborough To Bring Them Extra Comfort

In a heartwarming show of community collaboration, the Peterborough Field Naturalists, led by member King Baker, and local business The Avant Garden Shop came together to donate multiple birdfeeders and a pole to Hospice Peterborough to bring extra comfort to local residents.

The bird feeders, which seed was carefully chosen to support native species through the winter, were placed in the residence garden at Hospice Peterborough. A hummingbird feeder will be added in the spring.

King Baker from Peterborough Field Naturalists hanging one of the feeders.

The addition of bird feeders is normalizing, and will bring joy to the private residence gardens at Hospice. If this pandemic has taught us anything, it is that it's often the little pleasures such as watching birds that enriches our lives.

“The residents, their families, and even staff are going to receive such a healing distraction seeing the birds flit around outside their windows—especially in the upcoming months,” says Alison Casey, Manager of Development at Hospice.

Group (left to right): The Avant Garden Shop Owners Clayton and Brenda Ibey, King Baker, and Martin Parker (Peterborough Field Naturalists Member)

The Peterborough Field Naturalists uses part of their annual income to fund projects chosen by members and approved by their board. King Baker, who was the driving force behind the donation, says he thought of Hospice Peterborough for this gift because of the meaningful nature of the work and how he believed it would truly make a difference to those who would watch the birds from their rooms.

Hospice Peterborough provides vital support to individuals and families who are at the end of life, facing a life-threatening illness, or grieving. If you or someone you know could benefit from their support, go to hospicepeterborough.org or call 705-742-4042.

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Q & A With 4 Local Youth On The Impact A Pro Soccer Team Would Have On Peterborough

The prospect of a professional soccer team possibly coming to Peterborough is exciting for many but the idea has four local youth completely inspired at the notion.

For Owen Hazeldine, Belle Onusko, Jordan Foss-Mills and Nathan Francisco, their passion for the game runs deep. Beth McClelland, a soccer match official, player and fan, originally from Peterborough, recently caught up with all four as they shared what sparked their love for the game and why they hope to see a pro team come to the city. Read her interview with them below…

Jordan Foss-Mills, a member of Peterborough City's U-16 girls soccer team, competing against an opposing team at Eastgate Park in Peterborough (Photo courtesy Beth McClelland)

BETH: Please tell us about yourself and explain the connection to soccer in Peterborough.

Owen: Soccer has been a part of my life for a long time. I started playing soccer when I was two years old and have continued to play up to now when I am 15. I’ve kept playing soccer throughout the years because I enjoy it and have made many new friends along the way.

Belle: I started playing soccer when I was five years old in the Peterborough house league, then began with Peterborough City Soccer when I was eight. Throughout all the years I've played, it has always given me stability, allowing me to escape other stresses or worries in my life. My dad has been my coach almost every year until now, and he has really shown me how to be a caring player—both on and off the field. I've made meaningful friendships with many teammates, who inspire me to keep improving my skills, in both soccer and collaboration.

Jordan: Since a young age, I have been involved in many athletic clubs/programs across Peterborough. I found my passion for soccer at age eight, and joined Peterborough City Soccer at 10 years old. I have been playing ever since. Soccer has played a huge part in my life in many aspects, as a person and as a player

Nathan: I’m 16 years old and I’ve played soccer for 7 years. Being a soccer player runs in my family. I’ve always played for Peterborough City and I’ve played house league on my off seasons. I have been refereeing for three years, and I really enjoy that too.

Belle Onusko playing for the Peterborough City U-17 girls soccer team at the Champions Showcase tournament in Ottawa (Photo courtesy Beth McClelland)

BETH: What does the Peterborough soccer community mean to you?  

Owen: The Peterborough soccer community means a lot to me. It has been a part of my life for a long time. It has brought enjoyment into my life and is a very positive community. Everyone that has helped me has taught me valuable lessons and formed me into the person I am today.  Without the soccer community, I don't know where I would be today. 

Belle: To me, the Peterborough soccer community embodies a passion for soccer, and the development of quality teammates. From both coaches and other players, I've learned that a truly great soccer player means being a kind and fair person. I have learned how to commit to a team goal, and prioritize collective success. I will take this with me when moving on past high school onto other teams and in future workplaces. 

Jordan: The Peterborough City soccer community has always been my second family. I think I have spent more time training and competing with my team than with my actual family. The club is there providing a place to leave the outside world behind to compete and play the sport we all love. 

Nathan: The Peterborough soccer community means a lot to me. I’ve been a part of it for a very long time and I would like the best experience possible for people who are just getting into soccer! 

Owen Hazeldine (bottom left) with the Peterborough CIty U-15 boys team at a tournament in Thornhill (Photo courtesy Beth McClelland)

BETH: What would a semi pro or pro club coming to Peterborough mean to you?

Owen: A semi pro or pro club coming to Peterborough would be awesome. I think it would be great for the city. I feel it would give a lot of exposure to Peterborough and could change the way people see the city. I think it would also be a good achievement for Peterborough. Overall, I'm very interested to see what happens with this club and how it influences change in the city.

Belle: I always love watching women's soccer on TV, and getting to see female representation in the game. I think having a semi pro or pro team in Peterborough would offer an even more personal and meaningful connection to the game. Seeing successful professional players right here in Peterborough, and showing that it's possible to continue on with soccer professionally past childhood would be really inspiring. I believe this would be a great motivator for myself and other young people to pursue their love for soccer in the future, as a player, coach, referee or more.

Jordan: When I first heard about a semi pro/ pro club possibly coming to Peterborough, I was immediately excited. I have been watching Toronto FC (MLS) since I began playing soccer and have attended multiple games. Each time I attend, it puts the game of soccer in a whole new perspective. This is an amazing opportunity not only to cheer for your hometown but to gain a better understanding of what it takes to play at that level. 

Nathan: A semi pro/ pro team coming to Peterborough would mean the world to me. It would encourage kids who are younger to strive for more now because they would have potential options to get into the pro leagues, which means they would be able to go farther in their soccer career.

—special guest post by Beth McClelland

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Peterborough Downtown Holiday Shopping Passport Season Begins

You can now downtown with your seasonal Holiday Shopping Passport for your chance to win up to $3,000 Downtown Dollars. 

Starting Monday, November 9th, shop at nearly 150 downtown businesses with your Holiday Shopping Passport and get a stamp for every $10 you spend. When your passport is filled (20 stamps), complete the form and drop it off at a ballot box at one of the participating businesses. Each completed passport is a ballot for a draw to win downtown dollars.

“The Holiday Shopping Passports are always a favourite for our downtown shoppers,” says Terry Guiel, Executive Director of the Downtown Business Improvement Area. “It has been a difficult year for many people and many of our downtown businesses. The passports are a great way to reward people for shopping local this holiday season.”

Whitney Inacio, Mike Hall and Lindsay Barr show off the Downtown Dollars being given away to the winners of the Holiday Shopping Passport draws. (Photo courtesy DBIA)

Holiday Shopping Passport draws will be:

• December 2 — $500

• December 9 — $500

• December 16 — $500

• January 13 — $1,500

The DBIA and participating businesses are working to minimize physical contact with Holiday Shopping Passports. When getting your passport stamped, place it open on the counter of the business so that it can be stamped without being picked up by the business owner or employee.

Last year’s program saw shoppers stamp more than $2.3 million worth of local purchases on their Holiday Shopping Passports. 

In addition, a reminder that parking is free for two hours in downtown Peterborough from Black Friday (November 27th) through to the end of December, courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

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StoosNews Spotlight: Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Clarke's Cafe, The Loomex Group & More!

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

If you’re in Millbrook and you say you’re going to “Clarke’s”, you could be going to the car wash, the laundromat, the gas bar, the service station, and now the café! Heather and Mike Clarke recently opened Clarke’s Café. Managed by Taylor Post, the café offers breakfast and lunch 7 days a week, for both dine in and take-out. They also run the automotive repair shop called Clarke’s Service Centre, and Mike’s father Bill still punches the clock every day to operate the car wash, laundromat and gas bar. Go to clarkesservicecentre.ca for details. 

The Modern Makers Market opened last week at 651 Chamberlain Street. A collective of over 35 vendors, The Modern Makers Market brings local small businesses into a store front for an easier shopping experience. A market vibe in a retail location! Whether you are Christmas shopping, or looking for something unique for yourself, or a special present, you’ll find one-of a kind art, home décor, soaps, jewellery, candles, clothing and more. Find the Modern Makers Market on Facebook. 

Congratulations to The Loomex Group on acquiring Montreal-based Explorer Solutions, known for their economic development and airport planning services. The move gives the Loomex Group access to a global market through the US and France.

The Canadian Council for the Blind, Peterborough Chapter, has a unique project called “From the Blind, For the Blind”. They gather visual aids from people who are no longer using them and pass them on to those in need. They have rehomed everything from closed captioning units to large key keyboards, and they have clients looking for scanners, braille printers, cctv’s, vision max glasses, magnifiers and more. Contact ccbpeterborough.com or call Debby Haryett at 705-874-6905.

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Otonabee Conservation Just Planted 1,500 Native Trees To Help Rehabilitate A Selwyn Township Gravel Pit

On Friday (November 6th), Otonabee Conservation planted 1,500 trees at a gravel pit in Selwyn Township in order to help rehabilitate the site and return it to its natural state.

Staff from Otonabee Conservation and Selwyn Township along with local Youth Leadership in Sustainability students planted white pine, white spruce, eastern white cedar, tamarack and red oak. These native species will provide habitat for wildlife, increase biodiversity at the gravel pit site, and will help to regenerate the soil that was previously removed during aggregate extraction.

“Each year, we partner with Selwyn Township to plant trees at various sites throughout the watershed,” says Dan Marinigh, Otonabee Conservation’s CAO.

“Projects like this contribute positively to the watershed community in many ways by mitigating climate change impacts, enhancing watershed health, and providing opportunities for students to get outside and engage directly with nature.” 

This is the final tree planting event of the season, wrapping up with a total of 5,690 trees planted across the watershed at eight different locations with support from many community partners including: City of Peterborough, Selwyn Township, Siemens Canada, Brock Mission, and Peterborough Regional Health Centre.

Generous funding is also provided by Tree Canada, Forests Ontario, TD Canada Trust, and One Tree Planted.

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Fleming College To Host Virtual Open House On November 7th

Fleming College is welcoming hundreds of prospective students and their families at their Virtual Open House event on Saturday, November 7th, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The event, which is traditionally held at the College’s campus locations, will be held online this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

At Fleming’s Virtual Open House, there are a series of “rooms” that prospective students and their families can enter to do the following: 

• get answers to questions

• meet our dedicated faculty and staff

• find out about student services

• learn how to apply with our Admissions staff

• and of course, learn about our broad range of programs

Online virtual tours and 360 images of Fleming’s campuses in Peterborough, Lindsay and Haliburton are also available. 

To register for this informative event, click here.  

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Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area Receives Funding Through The Rural Economic Development Program

The Ontario government is committing nearly $1 million in cost-share funding to help communities like Peterborough-Kawartha diversify their economies, retain skilled workers and create jobs, through a new targeted intake of the Rural Economic Development (RED) program.  

The intake is directed at not-for-profit organizations with a mandate towards regional economic development, and Peterborough is among those benefitting from support for local projects funded under the RED program, as the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) is receiving $23,921 for decorative lighting to entice more people downtown.

MPP Dave Smith pictured with Terry Guiel, DBIA Executive Director

“Our downtown has faced unprecedented challenges in the last several months”, says MPP Dave Smith. “Critical investments in making the downtown brighter, safer and more inviting for the Christmas season is another step forward in our economic recovery.”   

"I am very grateful that with the combination of the RED funding that we were able to secure along with installation support from the City of Peterborough, the DBIA will be able to bring a record amount of decorative holiday lights to the downtown,” says Terry “Mr. Downtown” Guiel. “These new holiday lights will bring a bright, yet more warm ambience to the downtown than the previous ones".

"With all the stresses our community has been under this past year, we could sure all use something to help brighten the spirit and these beautiful lights should help with that while hopefully attracting some holiday shoppers to the area,” adds Guiel.

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