Ontario Built

When Sara and Shanna were both diagnosed with breast cancer during the pandemic, they were thrust into one of life’s most difficult challenges at a young age—and in isolation. With hospitals enforcing visitor restrictions and social circles shrinking under lockdowns, their journeys through cancer treatment were marked not only by physical hardship, but also by an overwhelming sense of loneliness. But from that hardship, something beautiful began to bloom. Sara, a former primary school teacher, and Shanna, a registered nurse, met on Instagram. Their shared diagnosis— invasive ductal carcinoma —and mutual feelings of isolation sparked a powerful bond. They began meeting monthly, and during one of their casual catch-ups at a local pub, the idea for Bloom Club was born. They wondered: If we’re longing for connection, how many others are too? That question became the seed of Bloom Club—a grassroots charity dedicated to offering free, joy-focused adventures and activities for young self-id...

  Launched in the summer of 2023, Elizabeth Confections has quickly made a name for itself in Canada’s growing artisan treat scene. Specializing in small-batch, gluten-free delights, the business is the brainchild of Dale Elizabeth Robertson, a passionate foodie, trained pastry chef, and chocolatier who turned her dietary restrictions into a delicious opportunity. “We specialize in small batch treats and confections, all of which happen to be gluten free,” Dale explains. “We use high-quality ingredients and creative flavour combinations to offer something truly special for those with dietary restrictions.” From cookies and brownies to lollipops and handcrafted chocolates, Elizabeth Confections delivers indulgent moments to customers across Canada. Orders are placed online and shipped nationwide, with products also featured at local Ottawa markets, pop-ups, and through a growing network of retail partners spanning four provinces—an impressive milestone in under a year. The name El...

In a city brimming with culinary options, it’s rare to find something that feels both new and nostalgic. That’s exactly what BEAR Steak Sandwiches delivers. Born from a simple craving and a shared dream, BEAR is the brainchild of longtime friends and business partners Aki Erenberg and Ricardo Barrientos —two individuals who turned their personal passion into a full-fledged neighbourhood favourite. The origins of BEAR are as humble as they are heartfelt. In 2021, with the world in the thick of the pandemic, Aki and Ricardo decided to launch a backyard weekend pop-up. The idea was casual: create and serve the steak sandwich they had always wanted but could never quite find in Toronto. What started as a passion project quickly turned into a sensation. Word spread fast, and weekend after weekend, the duo sold out. “It was just meant to be something fun—something that brought people together during a time when everyone was feeling isolated,” recalls Aki. “But the response we got told us t...

  In a quiet corner of Ontario, Canada, what began in a sawdust-filled garage has blossomed into something truly special. Timberwood Designs, co-founded by husband-and-wife team Josh and Sarah, is a small business built on love—for family, for craftsmanship, and for the beautiful journey of parenthood. Specializing in handcrafted wooden name signs and nursery décor, Timberwood Designs creates keepsakes that are as meaningful as they are lasting. Every piece is custom-made from solid hardwood with a level of care that can only come from something deeply personal. “We’re a husband and wife team based in Ontario, and for us, the best part of Timberwood Designs is connecting with each of you. There’s no better feeling than hearing about your pregnancy, name ideas, and nursery inspiration—and helping your dream nursery come to life. It’s an honour.” The couple’s journey into business began in 2020, inspired by the arrival of their children and a growing desire for meaningful, sustainabl...