LIVE! on Elgin - Jon & Lawrence

“We have a great deal of respect for each other and what we bring to the table. We have our areas of expertise and are careful not to cross the lines into each other's territory.  I learned early on to leave everything pertaining to music to Jon. He knows the biz, he knows the people.  That's the line in the sand.  There is not real final say.  We discuss, weigh pros and cons, and compromise based on what's best for the venue.  We are 50/50 partners in every way.  Granted, we don't have much social time together!  One of us is always here.”

Ottawa Tool Library - Bettina

“We set out to build a library for people to come, meet, get advice, and borrow tools. Often, those with the knowledge have built themselves a full workshop. We want to appeal to a broader demographic, especially those without the money and space for a massive collection of tools. And not just tools, but also the necessary ideas and expertise to use them safely. We wanted to make a community hub that empowered people, promoted sustainability, and collaborates with other community groups in the city. “

Pup Club - Isabelle

“I grew up with a dream of becoming a vet but soon realized it would be too much of an emotionally challenging job. After a few years of trying different career paths I realized working with dogs was not only a feasible option but something that I truly wanted to wake up every day and do.”

World-Changing Kids - Lindsey

“I just wanted to be a part of everything good – so joining an organization that was already in existence felt too narrow. I wanted to work with our elders, the Food Banks, the Humane Society, refugees, the homeless, the Indigenous Peoples of Canada, peace activists, environmental activists, feminists, educational disruptors, musicians, artists …”

Cellar 82 - Kasey

“Fast forward many years and many jobs in the industry (wineries, liquor reps, bartender) My husband and I took a trip to Chicago and fell in love with a tiny champagne bar and wanted to bring that concept back to Ottawa. When we started looking for locations we realized we would have to basically open a restaurant and that isn’t something that we wanted. We really just wanted to open a tiny tasting bar. Not seeing a location that would suit our needs, we decided to take it mobile! “

Chalkboard Chique - Rachelle

“Every part of making the chalkboards, I have learned from my dad. He’d be the last person to take any credit, but Chalkboard Chique only exists because of what he has taught me and his continued support. When I had first told my dad about the DIY chalkboard plans for my wedding, it was the perfect opportunity for us to have a project to work on together. Every weekend, I’d drive out to his home in Rockland and take over his garage/workshop.”

Chloé Lucas Conservation - Chloé

“ I was born and raised in France, a little South of Paris. I studied photograph conservation in Paris at the Institut national du patrimoine and first came to Ottawa in 2015 when I interned at the National Gallery of Canada. As a rule of thumb, the more the photographis damaged, the happier I am because it means a challenging treatment! You never stop learning in conservation. There will always be a situation I have never encountered. That being said, French photographer Brassaï once took a picture of my great grandmother. I would love to work on this photograph . “

Club Piscine Ottawa - Tania & Gina

“Club Piscine has a partnership with CHEO where we donate money for every swimming pool sold. We also had a CHEO day at our Ottawa locations last summer which was sooo much fun. Our parents taught us how important it is to give back. It's essential for us to be an active corporate citizen in the community. “

Farm 2 Fork - Jonnel

“I have always gravitated towards and admired products from companies that go above beyond the norm in craftsmanship. Be it clothing, cars or food. The food we eat in our own house, meat, veggies, grains and even supplements are certified organic. This is very important to me and my family.”

Frid Events - Brittany

"I love running the business. The banking, corporate stuff, team building, contract reviews, and above all else, the strategy. Along with that, I’ve built a career from scratch and I get to play with fun ideas and create beautiful days all the time."

App8 - Hani & Elias

“The moment came from a personal experience that most people can relate to. Elias was at a restaurant with a group of people, they finished their meal and had to head out for an event. It was a busy night and the waiter was doing their best yet the bill hadn't yet arrived. At the same time a long lineup was at the door waiting for the table to be released. It was a the frustrating thought of "the experience was amazing up until this point; why can't I just pay and leave". That was the moment.”

Hybrid Pharm - Dr. Rahim Dhalla

“Dispensaries typically dispense cannabis only. This is where we differ. We are a pharmacy. We know medicine. All medicine. We know drug interactions, dosing and safety. At Hybrid Pharm, there is professional medical oversight. Cannabis is a medication and should be treated as such. Dispensaries offer cannabis and cannabis related products. Hybrid Pharm offers a 360 degree approach to a healthier lifestyle. Our cannabis certified healthcare team is always available to help patients from strain selection to dosing to route of administration.”