Community Futures Peterborough Launches New Advisory Suite For Local Entrepreneur Support

The Business Advisory Centre (BAC) and Community Futures Peterborough (CFP) have officially launched their Advisory Suite to support local entrepreneurs, announced on Monday.

Photo courtesy of Community Futures Peterborough.

The suite is located on the renovated basement level of the Venture North building. It has a fully furnished space equipped with a 360-degree camera device for meetings and virtual workshops, a collaborative workspace and a dedicated confidential advisory area.

“The new Advisory Suite at the Business Advisory Centre will be more than just a meeting space; it’s a haven for creativity, ingenuity, and problem-solving,” says Rose Terry, BAC manager. “Here, we are dedicated to walking alongside entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey—whether starting, growing, or scaling their businesses. This unique expansion of our offices at Venture North are designed to inspire and motivate. It will act as a resource hub with the support needed to turn visions into reality.”

The expansion alleviates the space constraints and enhances CFP’s capacity to deliver tailored support and resources to a rapidly growing number of entrepreneur clients, according to Devon Girard, CFP executive director.

“The Suite reflects our mission to empower entrepreneurs and small businesses by providing them with the advisory services, business programs, and environment they need to succeed,” she said. “It enhances our ability to offer one-on-one guidance and creates a dedicated workshop space allowing for increased collaboration among local business owners.”

Lindsey Irwin, BAC cusiness advisor says the Suite is strategically designed to foster connectivity and accessibility, offering an ideal venue for small workshops, meetings and mentoring sessions.

“We’ve been inundated with business owners, each with unique ideas, hopes, and dreams for their businesses,” she explained. “This space gives them the chance to speak freely and confidentially, fostering genuine conversations and meaningful support.”

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$100,000 Available For Projects Supporting Economic Growth Through Community Futures Peterborough's Advancement Program

Community Futures Peterborough (CFP) is doubling the funding to $100,000 through its Community Advancement Program (CAP) for projects supporting economic growth, announced at the Art Gallery of Peterborough on Tuesday morning.

Girard addresses the public on CFP’s 40th anniversary at the Art Gallery of Peterborough with several dignitaries in attendance. Photo courtesy of Community Futures Peterborough.

The money came from the federal government through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario). The CAP will distribute an astonishing $100,000 to our region's not-for-profits, charities, municipalities and First Nation communities, a doubling from when it was first launched last year.

“Our organization is committed to advancing our local economy forward and is thrilled to be able to distribute $100,000 back into our community this year,” said Devon Girard, CFP executive director. “We fully understand and recognize the impact these dollars can make to create real change.”

The extra funding is part of CFP’s 40th anniversary where the City recognized the organization’s milestone.

“Building on a successful first year, the Community Advancement Program now offers even more support for businesses, non-profits and other eligible organizations to invest in the Peterborough region,” said Mayor Jeff Leal.

“Providing stability, building trust, and fostering a strong reputation in our region are all at the core of what we do at Community Futures Peterborough,” said Wayne Harding, CPF board of directors chair. “It's about giving back and demonstrating unwavering commitment to our community.”

The Community Advancement Program will provide 10 chosen applicants with non-repayable funding of $10,000 for their project.

Applications for the CAP program and full program guidelines are available on the Community Futures Peterborough website. The deadline to apply is March 7. All applicants will be notified by April 1 of the result of their application.

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Community Futures Peterborough Launches Free Workshop Series: Entrepreneurship 101

The Business Advisory Centre and Community Futures Peterborough (CFP) is launching a new, free workshop series designed to support entrepreneurs and small businesses in Peterborough City and County, announced on Tuesday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

These workshops aim to take the guesswork out of starting or growing a business while fostering a sense of community among local entrepreneurs, according to Devon Girard, CFP executive director.

“Community Futures Peterborough and our Business Advisory Centre are committed to empowering entrepreneurs and small business owners with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed,” she said. “This workshop series is a fantastic opportunity for businesses to learn, connect, and thrive in Peterborough City and County.”

The series will cover a range of essential topics for business success:

• Business Planning and Launching Your Business: Learn how to build a strong foundation for your business and bring your ideas to life.

• Marketing and Branding: Discover effective strategies to promote your business and build a compelling brand.

• Funding Options for Businesses: Explore various funding opportunities and understand how to access them.

• Understanding Cash Flow and Forecasting Finances: Gain insight into managing your finances and planning for sustainable growth.

A one-time tax preparation workshop will also be offered in March to help businesses prepare for tax season.

“This series was designed to address the most pressing needs of small business owners, providing practical insights to help them build resilient and innovative businesses,” said Rose Terry, Business Advisory Centre manager. “It’s important to create a continuous learning journey, fostering growth, and ensuring long-term success for the local business community which is why we encourage entrepreneurs to attend the entire series.”

The Entrepreneurship 101 workshop series is free and open to all entrepreneurs, anyone exploring entrepreneurship and small business owners in the region. It is held three times annually.

The first Entrepreneurship 101 Series for 2025 has been set for the following dates:

• Feb. 5

• Feb. 19

• March 5

• March 19

• March 26 (Annual tax planning workshop)

“Funding is one of the biggest challenges entrepreneurs face, but also where the greatest opportunities lay,” said Braden Clark, CFP loan manager. “These workshops will demystify the funding process, equipping participants with the tools to secure and manage financing effectively. Understanding cash flow and having a clear financial forecast is essential for long-term success, helping business owners build confidence to make informed decisions and seize opportunities.”

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Community Futures Peterborough Launching Small Business Week Event Beginning Oct. 23

Community Futures Peterborough CFP has announced its inaugural Small Business Week event which will take place on Oct. 23 from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the El(p) event space.

(FROM LEFT TO RIGHT) CHARLINA WESTBYE, CFP BOARD CHAIR; DEVON GIRARD, CFP EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR; BONNIE CLARK, PETERBOROUGH COUNTY WARDEN AND JEFF LEAL, PETERBOROUGH MAYOR. PHOTO BY DAVID TUAN BUI.

This year’s celebration will include a ‘choose-your-own-adventure’ event for entrepreneurs: The Modern Entrepreneur Experience. Attendees can choose to attend the entire day or select only the workshops that appeal to them most.

According to a press release, Small Business Week 2024 will bring together local entrepreneurs and small business owners for a dynamic, half-day program to reduce barriers for entrepreneurs. The program will focus on practical strategies, resources, and emerging trends.

The event will feature Keynote Speaker, Erika Arff, an accomplished Confidence and Business Coach named one of Cosmopolitan Magazine's Top 10 Pleasure and Confidence Coaches in 2021. Her popular podcast ranked in Canada’s top 20 in the Self-Help category in 2022 and her self-help journal reached the top 3 new launches for entrepreneurs in 2023. Her journey includes living with a chronic disease for 23 years and she’s traveled extensively, having taken over 100 flights in her lifetime. Her work has empowered hundreds of entrepreneurs, helping them build confidence as a foundation for business growth.

“I’ve had the privilege of working with over 500 clients from around the world,” said Arff. “Confidence is often overlooked until it’s the last thing getting in the way of your growth and unlocking your full potential. Then, it’s all you can think about!”

The Modern Entrepreneur Experience includes:

10:30 a.m. - Navigating City Hall
Moderated by Community Futures Executive Director Devon Girard, this panel will provide insights into navigating local permits, bylaws, and government processes, offering practical tips for working with local officials. Panelists for the event include senior officials from Peterborough City Hall.

11:30 a.m. - Lunch Break & Networking (Catered)An opportunity to hear from local business organizations such as the Peterborough & Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce, Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Association, and the Innovation Cluster – Peterborough and the Kawarthas

12:30 p.m. - Artificial Intelligence: Your Business Sidekick
Delivered by Business Advisory Centre Manager Rose Terry, this workshop will show how AI can enhance business operations, marketing, and customer service.

1:15 p.m. – Supercharge Your Business Creativity
Led by Business Advisory Centre Advisor Lindsey Irwin, this session will focus on fostering creativity in business and personal life, empowering attendees to unlock innovative solutions to common challenges.

2 p.m. – The Art of Confidence in Business Keynote with Erika Arff
Led by business confidence coach for ambitious entrepreneurs and professionals, Erika Arff, this session will help entrepreneurs build resilience and confidence in decision-making and leadership.

“We are thrilled to present Small Business Week 2024, especially as it marks a new chapter for Community Futures Peterborough and the Business Advisory Centre. This event will be taste of what’s the come from the Community Futures Peterborough team, for growth and collaboration in our local entrepreneurial ecosystem,” said Devon Girard, CFP executive director.

For more information, and to register: Eventbrite

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Community Futures Peterborough's ScaleUP Program Announces 2024 Cohort of Graduated Businesses

Six entrepreneurs growing their business operations have completed and graduated from Community Futures Peterborough’s (CFP) 2024 ScaleUP program and were commemorated at their facility at the Venture North Building on Tuesday.

(From left to right) Clint Clarke, Tracy Cosburn, Alicia Doris, Jacob Rodenburg and Sean Flanagan. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The initiative is a collaboration between CFP and Scotiabank which help equip the entrepreneurs with strategic insights and tools necessary for accelerated growth according to Devon Girard, CFP executive director.

“This dedicated group of ambitious business owners is now equipped with a customized expansion plan to grow and scale their operations,” she said, “We couldn’t be prouder to support their business journey, and we’re thrilled to see their sustainable growth plans put into action.”

The 2024 ScaleUP program was designed to address the evolving needs of regional entrepreneurs with the strategic tools required to make key decisions about how their businesses can scale according to a press release.

Graduates of the fall cohort of the program include:

• Tracy Cosburn, Kyoto Coffee

• Alicia Doris, Living Local Marketplace

• Jacob Rodenburg, Camp Kawartha

• Debra Ragbar, Kawartha Spice Company

• Clint Clarke, Barking Pixel Design Co.

• Sean Flanagan, Flanagan and Sun

The 2024 ScaleUP program was led by Diane Richard, an industry consultant and a team of regional experts over five months. Each graduates leaves the program with a customized growth plan to help them create sustainable expansion of their business.

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Community Futures Launches Business Advisory Centre; Starter Company Plus Program Applications Open for Business Funding

Community Futures Peterborough (CFP) expanded its services by launching its newly revamped Business Advisory Centre (BAC) with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Venture North Building on Monday afternoon.

The BAC, a part of the Small Business Enterprise Centre program, funded by the Province of Ontario through the Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, was previously operated by Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development (PKED). Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Rosalea Terry, recently named the 2024 Businesswoman of the Year and business and marketing professor at Fleming College, has been hired as the BAC manager. She is joined by Lindsey Irwin as the business advisor and is a leading marketing consultant and a professor at Fleming and Trent University.

The Business Advisory Centre offers a comprehensive suite of services, combining access to grants, microloans, top-tier advisors and specialized programs to support business growth, scaling and even selling according to a press release.

These resources and expertise make it a one-stop hub for entrepreneurs and small business owners to succeed according to Devon Girard, CFP executive director.

“With the launch of the Business Advisory Centre, we're taking a significant step forward in supporting the entrepreneurial spirit that drives both our city and county,” she said. “By bringing together top-tier talent like Rosalea Terry and Lindsey Irwin, we're ensuring our local businesses have access to the expertise, mentorship, and resources they need to thrive. This Centre is not just a resource for entrepreneurs; it's a catalyst for economic growth across our entire region.”

CFP was assuming operations of the Business Advisory Centre that was announced in June. This enables them to provide small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs access to funding and advisory services in one location.

Services of the BAC include mentorship, expert consultations, advisory, grant programs, confidence coaching, workshops, masterminds and networking events, catering to businesses at all stages of growth, from early-stage startups to scaling enterprises.

In addition to the BAC’s launch, CFP has opened its applications to its Starter Company Plus program. It offers businesses the opportunity to receive up to $5,000 in funding and ongoing support and mentorship to start or grow their ventures. Applications for the program are open until Oct. 4 at 4 p.m.

“We are incredibly confident in the team we've assembled to lead the Business Advisory Centre,: said Wayne Harding, CFP board chair. “We're empowering our community with the tools and guidance necessary to succeed in today's dynamic market. Community Futures Peterborough is the go-to for businesses and entrepreneurs and will undoubtedly bolster our local economy and create lasting opportunities for growth throughout the city and county.”

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Business Advisory Centre Services Moving to Community Futures Peterborough

Small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs can access funding and advisory services in one place as Community Futures Peterborough (CFP) will begin delivering services provided by the Business Advisory Centre (BAC), announced on Monday morning.

(FROM LEFT TO RIGHT) CHARLINA WESTBYE, CFP BOARD CHAIR; DEVON GIRARD, CFP EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR; BONNIE CLARK, PETERBOROUGH COUNTY WARDEN AND JEFF LEAL, PETERBOROUGH MAYOR. PHOTO BY DAVID TUAN BUI.

“We couldn’t be more excited to offer a continuation of expert advisory services, as well as delivering Small Business Enterprise Centre (SBEC) programs from the Community Futures Peterborough office,” says Devon Girard, CFP Executive Director. “We are thrilled entrepreneurs and business owners can access these additional services through our office door in Venture North.”

The BAC is a part of the Small Business Enterprise Centre program. It is funded by the Province of Ontario through the Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, was previously operated by Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development (PKED).

“The Province of Ontario is thrilled to announce the continuation of the SBEC program serving our community for decades,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough–Kawartha MPP. “We are fortunate CFP and PKED are both committed partners to ensure this smooth transition and are grateful they are committed to continuing this program, allowing entrepreneurs the tools they need to start and grow their businesses.”

PKED and CFP have worked for years to ensure entrepreneurs have access to the BAC programming, including developing business plans, market research, startup validation, and business expansion support, according to a press release. Several It continues to add that entrepreneurs would then come across the hall to Community Futures Peterborough to apply for a business loan. Forty per cent of CFP’s current loan portfolio has worked with PKED through the BAC.

“As the region undergoes substantial changes to the way economic development services will be offered, it is our top priority to ensure that the needs of business are at the forefront,” said Rhonda Keenan, PKED President and CEO.  “Community Futures Peterborough is well-equipped to take on this important work, as we have always worked well together, sharing a substantial number of clients and an integrative referral system. We are proud to have had the opportunity to help so many businesses start and grow, and we remain committed to ensuring the continuity of the services we offer as the region’s Small Business Enterprise Centre and will continue to collaborate as CFP takes on this responsibility moving forward,” added Keenan.

CFP and PKED have confirmed that the City and County of Peterborough have agreed to the move between the two companies.

“The City of Peterborough is pleased to continue to partner with Peterborough County to support the Small Business Enterprise Centre as it transitions to Community Futures Peterborough,” said Jeff Leal, Mayor of Peterborough. “I’m thrilled that the team at Community Futures Peterborough will ensure that local small businesses and entrepreneurs continue to benefit from the essential supports that the SBEC provides.”

“Peterborough County is committed to ensuring a smooth transition of the Small Business Enterprise Centre in Peterborough,” says Warden Bonnie Clark. “Small businesses are the backbone of our communities and the SBEC provides essential support services to them and to aspiring entrepreneurs who want to set up in Peterborough County. We have full confidence in the team at Community Futures Peterborough and they have our full support as they take on this new responsibility.”

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Community Futures Peterborough Launches New Green Funding Program For Any Peterborough City/County Business Of Up to $100,000

Community Futures Peterborough (CFP) for Earth Day, unveiled its Climate Change and Environment Fund to help any Peterborough County and City businesses reduce their carbon footprint, announced at Charlotte Products Ltd. on Monday morning.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“Like many organizations and leaders in the community, we want to be a part of helping fight climate change and encourage green investment in the Peterborough area,” said Devon Girard, CFP executive director. “Launching this new lending program is one way we can play a role in supporting existing businesses while also trying to attract new green companies to the region.”

The Climate Change and Environment Fund is open to any business to finance a project to reduce carbon emissions or waste. These projects could consider energy-efficient upgrades (including capital upgrades) to reduce energy bills, renewable energy improvements, or considerations of circular economies, including localizing supply chains or buying reusable bins. Under this fund, CFP will lend money at a prime rate, up to $100,000 per project.

Charlotte Products Ltd. has reduced carbon emissions by investing in the creation of its local manufacturing facilities instead of sourcing from the United States and globally.

“On behalf of the Charlotte Products team, we are honoured to host this exciting launch of the Climate Change and Environment Fund by Community Futures Peterborough,” says Matt Strano, Charlotte Products Ltd. CEO. “Sustainability is a primary concern for numerous businesses in our community,and initiatives like this fund will further bolster and reinforce their ongoing efforts.”

“The climate crisis is bringing a variety of increased financial pressures to our businesses including supply chain disruption and the rising costs of both shipping and natural gas,” said Tegan Moss, GreenUP executive director. “The Climate Change and Environment Fund is an opportunity for businesses to invest now in solutions that can help their businesses manage these costs while being a part of the solution. Imagine the possibilities: energy-efficient upgrades, renewable energy installations, circular economy initiatives – all aimed at reducing emissions, lowering costs, and enhancing the brand image of our businesses.”

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Community Futures Peterborough To Give $50,000 To Peterborough and County Projects In New Funding Program Launch

Community Futures Peterborough (CFP) has launched a new funding program called the Community Advancement Program (CAP) to distribute $50,000 to projects driving economic stability, job growth and job creation which was announced at the Venture North Building on Tuesday morning.

(From left to right) Charlina Westbye, CFP board chair; Devon Girard, CFP executive director; Bonnie Clark, Peterborough County warden and Jeff Leal, Peterborough mayor. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The program provides a maximum of up to $5,000 (non-repayable funding) to each successful applicant for their project. It is open to all businesses, not-for-profits and individuals in the City and County of Peterborough.

“The creation of this program demonstrates the commitment our organization has to advancing our local community forward,” said Devon Girard, CFP executive director. “The distribution of $50,000 in our economy should make a real difference to drive various economic development initiatives.”

CFP seeks projects that boost community business attraction, investment, retention and employment. Applications are being accepted until March 8, when a committee will oversee the applicant process following the deadline.

“The Community Advancement Program will boost economic development in our region by helping businesses, non-profits and individuals in the City and County of Peterborough to invest in their community,” said Jeff Leal, Peterborough mayor. 

“Community Futures Peterborough, with the support of FedDev Ontario, continues to help our business community reach its full potential,” said Bonnie Clark, Peterborough County Warden. “The CAP program will help businesses to adapt, innovate, and grow to serve our communities including those in rural Peterborough County.”

The federal government funds the money through FedDev Ontario.

CFP will notify selected applicants in April, according to Girard. Applications are available online at CFP’s website.

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Community Futures Peterborough Introduces New Start-Up With Arc Motor Company

Community Futures Peterborough (CFP) has introduced its new client, ARC Motor Company in the Peterborough Airport’s Loomex Hangar on Wednesday afternoon.

(From Right to Left) Bryan May, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Small Business; Tom Chep, COO Arc Motor Company; Warden Bonnie Clark; Sloane Paul, Founder/CEO of Arc Motor Company and MP Michelle Ferreri. A ‘74 Ford Bronco has been converted into an electric vehicle by Arc Motor Company. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The affiliation of the two companies saw CFP help launch ARC with a business loan.

“The passion, drive, and commitment to sustainably innovative technologies are all demonstrated through the leadership team at ARC,” says Devon Girard, CFP executive director. “We are so excited to reveal this company and its commitment to sustainability to the world.”

Based in Peterborough, Ontario, ARC is a green-tech start-up that transforms and upcycles iconic classic cars into modern and powerful electric vehicles. They equip electric vehicles with the latest technology to drive better performance and contribute to a future with net-zero emissions. The company is headed by CEO Sloane Paul — the first woman in North America to establish such a start-up — with her brother Tom Chep as the COO.

“Not only are we grateful to the team at Community Futures Peterborough for providing us with a critical loan, but also for their invaluable expert advice and guidance,” said Paul. “Their mentorship has been instrumental in steering us—as a start-up-along the right path.”

“With the support of Community Futures Peterborough, we are poised to make a meaningful impact on our community's future,” said Chep.

Chep successfully engineered the restoration of the company's first car. A 1974 Ford Bronco into a fully electric vehicle using upcycled lithium-ion batteries.

As a start-up company, qualifying for lending from traditional banks became challenging, until Community Futures Peterborough could step in and provide lending options.

“Small town businesses create very big ideas,” says Bryan May, Member of Parliament for Cambridge and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario. “ARC Motor Company is an example of how great ideas get off the ground with the right supports. Our government works with businesses and the organizations like Community Futures Peterborough that support them, as they find new and innovative ways to contribute to a strong economic future for Ontario and all of Canada.”

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