This Sunday marks the beginning of Small Business Week, a time to celebrate the remarkable contributions of entrepreneurs to our economy. As Prime Minister Justin Trudeau aptly stated, “From local cafés to independent bookstores, small businesses represent the limitless potential of Canada.” These enterprises are anything but insignificant; they are the lifeblood of our communities and play a crucial role in driving economic growth.
Acknowledging Ottawa’s Entrepreneurial Spirit
Ottawa is home to a vibrant array of entrepreneurs, each with unique stories and contributions. For instance, Ramla Fendri, an architect turned handbag designer, has recently gained attention. She’s the founder of Ramla Officiel, where she seamlessly merges her passion for design with a love for nature.
- Nature-Inspired Designs: Ramla incorporates wood pieces with leather, creating stunning, one-of-a-kind handbags that reflect her artistic vision.
- Artistic Process: She begins by sketching her designs before bringing them to life, ensuring each piece is a work of art.
You can explore her incredible creations on Instagram at ramla_officiel.
Dancing into Success
Another inspiring entrepreneur is Diane Kaiser, the founder of Dance Moms Ottawa. Recognising a gap in the market for social dance events tailored to women over 40, Diane created a community where women can enjoy dancing away from the typical bar scene.
- Creating a Community: “My friends and I always wished there was a place for us to go dancing,” she shared. After realising this dream, Diane now hosts parties that foster a fun and inclusive environment.
- Upcoming Events: Her next Halloween party is scheduled for October 26, from 8 p.m. to midnight at One Up Cocktail Pub, located at 1 Beechwood Ave.
A Showcase of Local Talent
This weekend, the Signature Handmade Market at Lansdowne is celebrating local artisans. With over 130 Canadian artists showcasing their work, it’s a fantastic opportunity to support small businesses.
- Event Details: The market runs until Sunday, from 8:10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Plus, ticket holders can enjoy free OC Transpo rides to the venue at 1000 Exhibition Way.
Government Support for Small Businesses
Prime Minister Trudeau has highlighted the vital role small businesses play in creating jobs and fostering economic growth. The government has implemented several measures to support these enterprises:
- Enhancements to the Canada Small Business Financing Program: This initiative makes it easier for businesses to access funding.
- Carbon Rebate for Small Businesses: Over $2.5 billion has been allocated to assist 600,000 Canadian businesses with their carbon costs.
- Reduced Credit Card Fees: A reduction of up to 27% in credit card fees will save small businesses approximately $1 billion over the next five years.
Inclusivity Programs
Initiatives like the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy, Black Entrepreneurship Program, Indigenous Growth Fund, and 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneurship Program aim to cultivate a diverse and innovative small business landscape. Trudeau concluded, “We’re reducing fees for small businesses, putting more money in their pockets, and making sure more entrepreneurs can start their businesses sooner. And there’s a lot more work to be done.”
Conclusion: Supporting Our Local Entrepreneurs
As Small Business Week kicks off, it’s essential to recognise and support the entrepreneurs in Ottawa and beyond. Their creativity and resilience not only contribute to our economy but also enrich our communities.
Whether you’re visiting a local café, exploring handmade markets, or attending dance events, your support makes a significant difference.
