Let’s get growing! Campaign Builds Rapid Momentum as Ottawa Companies Invest in Local Climate Action

Earlier this year, The Ottawa Business Journal announced a partnership with Canada’s Forest Trust Corporation (CFTC), Cool Climate Club (CCC) and the City of Ottawa to join the Let’s get growing! campaign – an initiative rallying local businesses to plant and protect trees in Ottawa to help grow the city’s tree canopy.

Since the program launch, more than 30 Ottawa-based businesses have launched initiatives to invest in nature or participate in the Ottawa campaign to take measurable climate action. Momentum is building, impact is accelerating, and new business leaders and local organizations are coming on board every week. Thanks to Ottawa’s leadership, other major municipalities in Canada have taken notice and are now developing partnerships with CFTC in similar initiatives.

What’s especially exciting about the first few months of the campaign is the strong response from businesses of all sizes and across a wide range of sectors. This broad participation highlights how accessible the program is and reinforces the growing importance of taking meaningful climate action. Today, CFTC and CCC are proud to recognize some of our early adopters, including some of the city’s largest businesses, stepping up to help build a greener future for all:

• CLV
• Coventry Connections
• Giant Tiger
• InterRent
• Mark Motors Group
• Modern Niagara
• Scouts Canada

For leaders in Ottawa this participation is more than a line item, it is a core responsibility. Brad McAninch, CEO and President of Construction at Modern Niagara, emphasizes that the construction industry has a unique role to play in this transformation.

“As a leader in the construction industry, we recognize our responsibility to drive climate action and protect the environment,” says McAninch. “Planting and protecting trees in Ottawa is not just an investment in our community; it’s an essential step toward a sustainable future. Together with CFTC and the City of Ottawa, we can create a greener city, enhance biodiversity, and combat climate change.”

Creating lasting, city-wide impact takes a community of business leaders working together. That means partnering with BIAs and the many businesses and organizations investing in nature to engage their employees, connect with customers, and support the broader community.

The goal is to see 1,000 businesses across the city embed climate action into their core values and ethos. The research is clear: employees, consumers, and younger generations expect nothing less.

Learn more about the Let’s get growing! campaign and how your business can become a leader in climate action in Ottawa.

Become an early adopter

Hear from participating businesses

Glenview Homes

“Investing in Ottawa’s environmental future is essential to building resilient communities where families can thrive for generations. The Let’s get growing! campaign reflects the kind of partnership between builders, residents, and the City that will strengthen our urban forest and leave a lasting legacy for the community.” — Jake Shabinsky, Managing Director

La Bottega

“As a family-owned business with deep roots in Ottawa, investing in the future of our community is something we take seriously. Joining the Let’s get growing campaign felt like a meaningful way to give back locally while supporting environmental initiatives that benefit everyone. We’re proud to be part of an effort that strengthens our city, supports a healthier environment, and helps create a positive legacy for future generations.” – Pat Nicastro, Owner

Natural Food Pantry

“For 45 years, Natural Food Pantry has been rooted in the Ottawa community, helping people on their journeys toward good health and wellbeing. We’re proud to partner with Let’s get growing Ottawa to plant trees that will support a healthier, greener city for generations.” — Rick Payant, RHN, Nutritionist, Owner

OneLife Wealth

“As a locally rooted business, we believe investing in Ottawa’s environmental future is an investment in the long-term well-being of our clients and community. We joined the Let’s get growing campaign as a practical way to contribute to meaningful climate action right here in our city. Supporting urban tree planting today helps create a healthier, more resilient Ottawa for future generations.” — Chris Bockstael, President

Other early adopters in Ottawa