When entrepreneur and business owner Sarah Nestor launched The Nest Wellness in North Grenville, she had a vision of creating a health hub focused on pelvic health, physiotherapy, chiropractic care and family wellness services. What she found was more than just a place to operate a business – it was a community committed to helping entrepreneurs succeed.
“The Leeds Grenville Starter Company Plus program provided not only practical tools and education, but also encouragement and support throughout the process,” explains Nestor of the Ontario government-funded program designed to help local entrepreneurs start, grow, or purchase a small business.
“It played an important role in helping me build greater confidence in my business, and in the direction I want to take it.”
That support has translated into measurable results. Since participating in the program, the business has added two health-care professionals, invested in marketing and community outreach initiatives and significantly increased its visibility throughout North Grenville and the surrounding area.
A region built for small business success
Stories like Nestor’s are becoming increasingly common across Leeds Grenville as more entrepreneurs discover the advantages of establishing and growing a business in the region.
Located between Ottawa and Kingston, Leeds and Grenville is home to a diverse collection of communities including Kemptville, Merrickville, Westport, Spencerville Brockville and Prescott. The region offers a unique combination of its strategic location, lower operating costs than bigger centres, and an exceptional quality of life.
“While many people recognize Leeds Grenville for the 1000 Islands, the Rideau Canal Waterway and its natural beauty, the region is equally defined by its thriving small-business community,” says Ann Weir, economic development manager for the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville. “We’re a small-business mecca, with nearly 99 per cent of our businesses employing fewer than 100 people.Â
“That entrepreneurial spirit is part of who we are, and we’ve built a strong network of people, programs and resources to help small businesses launch, grow and thrive.”
A new business toolbox for entrepreneurs
To further support business attraction and expansion, the Leeds Grenville Economic Development Office recently launched a new informational website. It’s a centralized resource for entrepreneurs, investors and business owners looking to explore opportunities across all 13 of the region’s municipalities.
The website includes information about the region, investment opportunities, and available business resources, serving as a comprehensive business toolbox to help entrepreneurs start, operate and grow their companies. Businesses can also connect with the region’s Small Business Centre, which provides programming, mentorship and hands-on assistance for companies at every stage of their development.
For entrepreneurs like Sarah Nestor, that support network made all the difference.
“Beyond the measurable growth, the programs have helped strengthen our business foundation, refine our strategic planning and increase our confidence as a growing healthcare business,” she says.Â
How to get connected
Entrepreneurs interested in learning more about business opportunities in Leeds and Grenville can subscribe to the region’s bi-weekly economic development e-newsletter, visit the new economic development website or connect directly with the Economic Development Office to speak with a business adviser and discover how the region can help turn vision into reality.Â
