“ The core idea behind PROCARE was a centre that's inclusive, educational, FUN, safe, vibrant and supportive for children to blossom into their individual beings all while learning through a play base program. “
All in Entertainment
Venus Envy - Sam
“I feel really lucky to be part of a network of thoughtful, conscientious, community-oriented business owners in Ottawa. There is something so special to me about businesses who see it as their mission to give back to the communities they’re a part of. I think that also resonates with people living in Ottawa, and has helped to build the strong ‘Shop Local’ ethic here.”
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.”
YOW Popcorn Co. - Michael & Fiona
“Yes, we use a Mushroom kernel which has a larger round circumference than regular popcorn. This allows our cheese and special seasonings to adhere to the kernel which is part of reason it tastes so good!”
Sir John A Pub - Peter & Bob Abraham
“We were inspired at an early age by our father who was also in the restaurant industry. He owned and ran one of Ottawa’s earliest restaurants - The Gondola. ”
Town & Citizen - Marc & Lori
“ We love to support Elgin street and Ottawa as a whole wherever we can....food, drinks, suppliers, art, music, culinary talent, other businesses...Ottawa is a really great place to be a part of for the variety of things we can tap into.”
East India Company Restaurants - The Mehra Family
“We roast and blend our own spice blends and for years people would ask mom and dad for a little bag so they recreate some of our flavours at home. For years it went on like this, but then about 12 years ago, we made some packaging for the spices and started selling them in the restaurants. The response was great and then Nitin approached Farm Boy about carrying the whole line. “
Beyond the Pale Brewing - Shane, Rob & Al
“ From the day we opened our doors we could not keep up with demand. In order to work the hours required we created a Fun environment that persists today. If it is not fun we don’t do it. We have fun making our beer; fun selling it and we hope that people have fun drinking it.”
Ania Hejnar
“My point of disbelief never stops, because I am so lucky to get work, and with some incredible musicians out there. But I would say my biggest moment of disbelief happened when I performed with L'orchestre Metropolitain from Montreal.”
David Gourlay
“I am a born and raised Kanata North kid and chose to stay here as I love the community we have become to raise a family. My Father was a career Diplomat and taught me the value of public service, giving back and the importance of self-respect and being a champion to educate others about our community….”
Escape Manor - Neil, Billy, Steve & Chris
“Escape Manor was created to add a dash of fun to Ottawa, and help our fair capital city break out of the nap room that everyone thinks we live in! You know exactly what we mean! We wanted to create a business that would get people excited, get them off their chairs and into the mix. There are more and more digital connectors out there, but our escape rooms force you to engage with real people, in real life ways, but in some very heightened scenarios.”
Malenka Originals - Katrina
“It’s been a wild ride over the last 6 years, and I’ve loved every minute. I’ve been able to meet so many creative and inspiring people in this city, and have been very grateful to share and teach what I know about painted furniture and Chalk Paint.”
Heart & Crown - The Bradley Family
"Ottawa being home to many Irish settlers, I’ve always tried to keep the Irish authenticity alive in the capital. Actually, most of our furniture and bars were made in Ireland and shipped over here. When the Irish are homesick, they tend to gather in our pubs."
Brew Donkey - Brad
"Every weekend we're bringing busloads of people to local breweries where they learn about the breweries products, witness the culture and see the space where their favourite products are created."
N.U.T.S - Hi
"I have always dreamed of having my own business. When I seriously began thinking of starting something, it was clear to me that I wanted to offer something fun and unique for families.