HALIFAX CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 | VOLUME 35 ISSUE 6 Single price: $3.81 Subscription price: $30.48
Milestone moments
Small businesses celebrating big anniversaries Pg 16
DEVELOPMENTS IN DEFENCE Navigating the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project opportunity Pg 19
STEEL FABRICATED HERE, SHIPPED EVERYWHERE
GROWING IN GOOD COMPANY
Cherubini Bridges and Structures Pg 22
Inside EO Accelerator Pg 29
Ride On! Ride On!
Champions of Inclusion Soirée
Champions of Inclusion Soirée Celebrating Decades of Inclusion; Changing the Future
BE A CHAMPION BE A CHAMPION
Tickets
6 PM
October 29, 2026
The Westin Nova Scotian Entertainment
Master of Ceremonies
Home Grown
Jayson Baxter
TABLE OF CONTENTS
04 Chair’s Message 05 Event Calendar 08 New & Noted 12 Members in the News 16 Cover Story 19 Spotlight Story 22 Member Profile 23 Working For You 24 Trends 28 Sponsored Content
Board of Directors — Officers
Donna Harding, Engel & Völkers, Chair Katherine Risley, KBRS & Meridia Recruitment Solutions, Vice Chair Hon. Joanne Bernard, Easter Seals of Nova Scotia, Past Chair Kimberly Stephens, High Liner Foods Nancy Foran, ESG Partners Jon Legatto, O’Regan’s Automotive Groupiik
Directors
Ann-Marie Flinn, Champion Change Agency Amit Khurana, Corporate Access Brad Murphy, RBC Commercial Banking Jennifer Parker, Nova Scotia Power Nadia Middleton, Middleton Group Martina Kelades, Life Out Loud Mohammad Ali Raza, Cox & Palmer Dr. Denise Daley, Nasore Personalized Wellness David Randell, Stewart McKelvey Rodney Belliveau, Doane Grant Thornton Joshua Counsil, Good Robot Brewing Captain (N) Annick Fortin, Maritime Forces Atlantic Colleen O’Toole, Lighthouse Transportation Roberto Menendez, BMO Commercial Bank Robert Wooden, Dalhousie University
Volume 35 • Issue 6 Business Voice is published 8 times a year for members of the Halifax Chamber of Commerce and Metro Halifax’s business community. Views expressed in Business Voice are those of the contributors and individual members, and are not necessarily endorsed by, or are a policy of, the Halifax Chamber of Commerce. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions that may occur. All images are contributed unless otherwise stated. Please address editorial enquiries and changes to information to: Halifax Chamber of Commerce 100-32 Akerley Boulevard Dartmouth, Nova Scotia B3B 1N1 Tel: 902-468-7111 Fax: 902-468-7333 info@halifaxchamber.com www.halifaxchamber.com Cover Image Credit: Ashley MacPhee
Chamber Staff
Don Bureaux, President and CEO Becky Davison, Vice President, Marketing Peter MacAskill, Vice President of Policy, External Affairs and Business Development Busola Adeniji, Director of Finance and Administration Emma Menchefski, Communications Manager Emily Bednarz, Communications Specialist
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This project has been made possible in part by the Government of Canada.
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CHAIR’S MESSAGE
EVENTS
There is nothing harder
CHAMBER EVENTS
Celebrating entrepreneurial tenacity this Small Business Month
DONNA HARDING CHAIR, HALIFAX CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS
N
othing quite prepares you for starting a small business—not the Navy, not a business degree, not watching someone else do it. I spent twenty-four years in the Canadian Navy, and I still consider entrepreneurship as one of the toughest things I have done. When Sébastien left the Navy in 2010 to build Harding Real Estate alongside me, we started with a single micro-office and a team of five. Every early decision, who to hire, what to spend, when to say no to a bad deal, carried weight because there was no larger structure to absorb a mistake. That is the reality of small business ownership. You are the CEO, the CFO and the COO and responsible for strategy, payroll, and above all, you are the only safety net. We grew from that single office to seven locations and 100 advisors and staff across the province in three years. That growth happened, notably, in the middle of a global pandemic, when every assumption about how business worked was upended overnight. We stayed grounded in one principle borrowed from our brand: every client deserves the same level of care, regardless of price point. I believe that small business owners across this province apply a version of that principle every day, treating every customer like they matter, because they do.
Wednesday, September 9
Wednesday, September 23
Wednesday, September 23
Friday, September 25
POWER LUNCH
WORKSHOP
LUNCHEON
The Three-Year Strategic Question: Fewer Priorities, Bigger Impact with OPTIV
Getting Ready to Compete in a Changing Market with Nancy Foran
How do we get growth right in Halifax? A conversation hosted by NSAR
NETWORKING
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM Halifax Chamber Boardroom FREE for members
In September 2025, Donna Harding and the Engel & Völkers team launched the inaugural Hope in Motion relay, raising over $10,000 for A Home for Everyone.
None of it works without the right people. Our VP of Operations, Stephanie Perrault, has been with us for 11 years and is the heart of our team. Every entrepreneur I respect has a ‘Stephanie’ somewhere in their story, the person who makes the whole operation hold together while the owner is out chasing the next opportunity. This issue’s Cover Story features a handful of Halifax businesses and organizations marking real milestones this year (tenth, twentieth, thirtieth anniversaries and beyond). Longevity like that does not happen by accident. It is built the same way ours was: one hard decision at a time, over years that rarely feel as tidy as the anniversary date suggests. I hope you take the time to read their remarkable stories. October is Small Business Month,
and I can think of no better time to say plainly what small business owners already know: this work is relentless, often thankless, and worth every bit of the effort. Small businesses are key to creating prosperity in Halifax, and they deserve to be celebrated throughout the year. At the Chamber, supporting small business is not a seasonal initiative. It is the reason we exist. Whether you are three months into your first venture or three decades into building something bigger, know that this Chamber sees the work you are doing and stands behind you. To every small business owner reading this: keep going. I know exactly how hard it is, and I know exactly why you do it every day! ■
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Halifax Chamber Boardroom FREE for members
big growth 4
Walk & Talk with the Halifax Chamber Membership Team
11:30 AM - 1:30 PM Atlantica Hotel
12:00 PM - 1:15 PM Shubie Park FREE for members
Thursday, October 1
Tuesday, October 6
Thursday, October 15
Friday, October 16
BUSINESS AFTER HOURS
POWER LUNCH
BUSINESS AFTER HOURS
WORKSHOP
Dalhousie Family Medicine Residency Program
Digital nGenuity Consulting Inc.
Symphony Nova Scotia
Symplicity Designs: Recession-Proofing with AI
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM NATIONAL Public Relations FREE for members
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM Halifax Chamber Boardroom FREE for members
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Dalhousie Arts Centre Discounted tickets available for opening performance with Symphony Nova Scotia. FREE for members
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Halifax Chamber Boardroom
Thursday, November 19 LUNCHEON
Hon. Tim Halman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM Lord Nelson Hotel
THANK YOU TO OUR JULY/AUGUST EVENT SPONSORS!
Tuesday, November 3 SIGNATURE
small business
For a full list of Chamber events, visit: halifaxchamber.com/events
ANNUAL FALL DINNER 2026
a week of events to
5:00 PM - 9:30 PM Halifax Convention Centre Join your local business community for a night of networking and conversation about the defence industry in Nova Scotia. Flip to page 19 to learn about what could become the largest defence procurement in Canada’s history—and its impact on Halifax!
support your small business
more events to be announced! stay in the loop at: halifaxchamber.com/events
october 19 momentum breakfast
october 20 power lunch
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026
october 21 networking market
october 23 seaport party
Want to partner with the Halifax Chamber on an event? Contact Josh Creighton, Corporate Partnership Specialist at josh@halifaxchamber.com or call (902) 481-1229 to get started.
BUSINESS VOICE
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WONDER WOMEN 2026 On Friday, June 12, 2026, the Halifax Chamber’s annual Wonder Women Conference brought together bold, ambitious professionals to build their local networks and gain insights from experts at the Halifax Convention Centre. 2026 presenters included Fotini Iconomopoulos, Irene Saliendra, Sarah Bowes, Wendy Brookhouse, Fantanesh “Fanta” Attomsa, Melissa Lloyd, Fiona Kirkpatrick Parsons, Alex McCann, LCol Rhonda Matthews, Joyce Liu, Val Malone, Neha Bhojwani, Becky Davison, and Katherine Risley. Thank you to all of our attendees, vendors, speakers, sponsors, and volunteers for being a part of this inspiring event. See you in 2027!
NEWSMAKERS
presented by:
NEW & NOTED champion partner
We welcome our new Chamber members ACTUNOMICS MANAGEMENT CONSULTANCY
TABLE partnerS
premier gala partner
EVENT IMPACT PARTNER
AUDIO VISUAL + CREATIVE PARTNER
Actunomics Management Consultancy empowers businesses with data analytics, AI-driven solutions, business intelligence, and actuarial expertise. We help organizations streamline operations, automate workflows, uncover actionable insights, and make confident, data-driven decisions. From strategic consulting to custom analytics solutions, we deliver measurable results that drive sustainable business growth. Kashif Feroz Bedford, NS (902) 412-8045 info@actunomics.com actunomics.com Business & Professional Services
ADMIRAL SECURITY GRAND PRIZE PARTNERs
Prize Partner
Refresh Partner
Runway partner
Community Partner
Recharge Partner
Swag Partner
Photography Partner + photo credit
Admiral Security is the number one provider of professional security services, dedicated to safeguarding your world with precision and care. Brandy Davidson Dartmouth, NS (902) 706-8604 brandy@admiralsecurity.ai admiralsecurity.ai Business & Professional Services
AFGHAN YUMMY FOOD CATERING SERVICES Afghan Yummy Food Catering Services provides freshly prepared catering for weddings, corporate events, cultural celebrations, private parties, and community gatherings. We offer a diverse selection of halal food, including Afghan, South Asian, and international-inspired dishes, with customizable menus designed to make every event memorable and welcoming.
Abdul Ibrahimi
Bedford, NS (782) 409-9661 yummyfood786@gmail.com yummyfood.gt.tc Restaurants, Food & Beverage
ANCHORPOINT AUTO CONSULTING Anchorpoint Auto Consulting is Dartmouth’s independent, flat-fee vehicle purchasing and leasing consulting service. No dealership ties, no commissions, no conflicts of interest. We work with all types of buyers across HRM and the Maritimes, from first-time buyers and newcomers to Canada, to professionals and business owners. Michael McCallum Dartmouth, NS (902) 322-2539 michael@anchorpointauto.ca anchorpointautoconsulting.ca Business & Professional Services
APEX CORE PROTECTION INC Apex Core Protection Inc. is a Nova Scotia-owned security company specializing in event security, executive and close protection, labour disruption, and industrial security. We partner with organizations across Atlantic Canada to deliver professional, customer-focused security solutions that protect people, property, and reputation through preparedness, de-escalation, and exceptional service. Ashley Innocente
Halifax, NS (902) 225-3816 a.innocente@apexcoreprotection.com apexcoreprotection.com Business & Professional Services
ATLANTIC HALAL EXPO AND TRADE SHOW SERVICES Lama Issa
Bedford, NS (782) 234-5623 info@atlantichalalexpo.ca atlantichalalexpo.ca Hospitality, Tourism & Events
HUMANKIND GLOBAL RECRUITMENT We are Humankind Global Recruitment, a specialist recruitment consultancy connecting the global ambitions of our clients with the personal ambitions of exceptional individuals. With teams in Halifax and across the UK, we operate as one integrated business spanning multiple regions and supporting clients and candidates across international markets. Our global perspective allows us to combine local market understanding with a broader, cross-border view of talent and opportunity. Greg Dobson Halifax, NS (902) 441-2314 greg@humankind-recruitment.com humankind-recruitment.com
BIG LEAP LEADERSHIP INC Harriette Schumacher
Bedford, NS (902) 403-7074 harriette@harrietteschumacher.com harrietteschumacher.com/about Education & Professional Development
BOOMMAR Balwinder Singh
Halifax, NS boommarads@gmail.com boommar.com
Are you a new Chamber member? Get listed in New & Noted! To get started, contact Emily Mitchell at (902) 468-7111 or emilym@halifaxchamber.com. 6
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NEWSMAKERS
NEWSMAKERS
CAPSTONE PROJECT SOLUTIONS INC.
ELEMENT DANCE STUDIO
GREENSTAR PROPERTIES
KLUSKAP SULIEWEI
Capstone is a Canadian, women-owned consulting firm helping organizations move important initiatives forward with confidence. From PMO leadership and modernization to digital transformation and strategic planning, we work alongside teams to bring clarity, momentum, and practical leadership to the work that matters most. Geneva Blois
Janelle Konowal
Bedford, NS (902) 221-5234 janelle@elementdancestudio.ca elementdancestudio.ca Arts, Culture & Entertainment
Kelly Marshall
Mike MacDonell
Dartmouth, NS (902) 491-2279 hello@capstone-projects.com capstoneprojectsolutions.com Business & Professional Services
CHADJPICTURES Chadwell Johnson
East Preston, NS (902) 237-7210 instagram.com/chadjpictures
CHANGEMAKERS Phil Otto
Bedford, NS (902) 835-3559 info@thechangemakers.com theChangeMakers.com Business & Professional Services
ENTERPRISE LAW GROUP LTD. Janet Handyside
Dartmouth, NS (902) 536-2498 janet@enterpriselaw.ca Business & Professional Services
EWOMENNETWORK HALIFAX CHAPTER eWomenNetwork is expanding into Halifax, creating new opportunities for women entrepreneurs and small businesses to connect, collaborate, and grow. Using founder Sandra Yancey’s proven networking approach, we build meaningful relationships, encourage referrals, share resources, and empower women to expand their businesses locally, nationally, and globally. Tara MacDonald Dartmouth, NS taracmacdonald.com Business & Professional Services
CROMBIE REIT
FANTASY KUSTOM DESIGNS
Barbara Sheaves
Tamara Rolle
Halifax, NS (902) 429-3660 terry.doran@crombie.ca halifaxdevelopments.com Construction & Real Estate
DEE DEE’S ICECREAM Founded in 2004 by Ditta Kasdan, Dee Dee’s Ice Cream was passed on to Lindsay MacPhee and Jenna Mooers in 2022. Lindsay MacPhee Halifax, NS (902) 407-6614 lindsay.macphee@gmail.com deedees.ca Restaurants, Food & Beverage
Halifax, NS (902) 220-9216 tamaraadderleyrolle@gmail.com fantasykustomdesigns.com Hospitality, Tourism & Events
FTDARFORT INTERNATIONAL COMPANY LIMITED PARTNERSHIP Auto spare parts sales; import and export of agricultural commodities including cocoa beans, soya beans, cashew nuts, and sesame seeds. Olusola Onigbinde Halifax, NS (902) 989-6256 Ftdarfortlimited@gmail.com ftdarfort.com
Dartmouth, NS (902) 220-2749 admin@gogreenstar.ca Construction & Real Estate
INSIGHTFUL SKILLS TRAINING Insightful Skills Training delivers practical corporate training in data analysis, digital tools, and continuous improvement. Founded by a training specialist with Fortune 100 experience, we offer tailored in-person training for corporate teams and interactive online workshops, empowering learners to apply new skills immediately and drive data-driven decisions. Daraghma Abdulrazik Halifax, NS (902) 478-1031 hello@insightfulskills.com insightfulskills.com Education & Professional Development
JAMAICA SPICE KITCHEN CATERING Jamaica Spice Kitchen Catering launched in December 2024 to bring authentic Jamaican cuisine to Nova Scotia. We offer vibrant, traditional flavours for office functions, social gatherings, and special occasions, catering for groups of four or more. Find us every Sunday at the Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market. Celia Deer Halifax, NS (902) 223-3698 jamaicaspicekitchen@gmail.com Restaurants, Food & Beverage
JDH CAPITAL INC. Jacquan Howe
Halifax, NS (902) 430-7323 howecapitalinc@gmail.com Business & Professional Services
KITRYD BIOSCIENCE INC Gulten Izmirliogulu
Dartmouth, NS gulten@kitryd.com Manufacturing & Industrial
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Halifax, NS (902) 266-9967 sebastien@kluskapsuliewei.com kluskapsecurity.ca Business & Professional Services
LAKKIS PHARMACY LTD Rajae Omrane
Halifax, NS (902) 444-3311 mguardianpharmacy@gmail.com mumfordguardian.ca
LALA JI THE BARBER LTD. The Lalaji Group is a Halifax-based hospitality and lifestyle company operating businesses across food, wellness, and personal care, with a focus on exceptional customer experiences, community engagement, and innovative service offerings. Halifax, NS (416) 450-5328 admin@thelalajigroup.com lalajithebarbershop.ca
MACKAY ELECTRICAL & CONSTRUCTION MacKay Electrical & Construction provides residential and commercial electrical and construction services throughout Nova Scotia, with offices serving HRM and Port Hawkesbury. From new construction and renovations to service work and maintenance, our experienced team delivers quality workmanship, reliable service, and practical solutions for every project. Donald MacKay Bedford, NS (902) 434-5282 admin@callmackay.ca callmackay.ca Construction & Real Estate
MARITIME CLIMATE MECHANICAL Maritime Climate Mechanical is a premier HVAC provider serving Halifax and surrounding areas. Led by a certified Double Red Seal technician, we specialize in energy-efficient heat pump installations, heating and cooling system maintenance, emergency repairs, and
expert gas fitting for residential and commercial clients across Nova Scotia. Ismail Mobasher Halifax, NS (437) 873-1363 maritimeclimate.ca@gmail.com maritimeclimate.ca Energy & Environment
NOVA SCOTIA PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT Andrea Fairclough
Halifax, NS (902) 237-5776 andrea.fairclough@novascotia.ca Public Sector & Institutions
NURTURE MEDITATION
MITACS Mitacs co-funds innovation partnerships that get Canada’s researchers and businesses where they need to go, opening the door to opportunity by creating jobs and equipping students and postdoctoral researchers with skills, industry experience, and professional networks. Mitacs is funded by the federal government, all ten provinces, and the Yukon Territory. Allison Haley Vancouver, BC (613) 808-4386 ahaley@mitacs.ca mitacs.ca Non-Profit & Charities
NEIGHBOURS OF HALIFAX SOUTH MAGAZINE Neighbours of Halifax South helps local businesses grow by connecting them with South End homeowners. Our three-pronged branding approach includes an exclusive monthly print magazine, geo-targeted social ads, and Google ranking solutions to help your business get seen, found, and chosen within this highly desirable local community. Amanda Silliker Halifax, NS (782) 640-1078 amandasilliker@bestversionmedia. com bestversionmedia.com/ns/ neighboursofhalifaxsouth
NOVA SCOTIA BLACK COMMUNITY HOUSING COUNCIL
Angela Poundmaker
Halifax, NS (250) 686-3753 angela@nurturemeditation.org nurturemeditation.org Education & Professional Development
O2O CONSULTING INC. Obligations to Opportunities (O2O) Consulting offers a new approach to industrial participation in Canada. We help organizations transform Industrial Regional Benefits (IRB) and Industrial & Technological Benefits (ITB) obligations into opportunities by building ecosystems, fostering reconciliation, driving innovation, and promoting sustainable economic development. Melanie De Young Lantz, NS (902) 802-5275 o2oconsulting.com
OCAN CONSULTANTS Ocan Consultants is a human rights agency that designs and delivers research and training solutions on intercultural intelligence, governance, equity, diversity, inclusion, belonging, and antiracism. We also provide speaking engagements on Black history and African diaspora experiences. Ivan Okello Halifax, NS (506) 889-9421 ivan@ocanconsultants.ca ocanconsultants.ca
Lindell Smith
Halifax, NS (902) 333-7748 info@nsbchc.ca nsbchc.ca Non-Profit & Charities
BUSINESS VOICE
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NEWSMAKERS ORIGIN LIVING - DARTMOUTH CROSSING
SIPEKNE’KATIK BAND
Origin is Dartmouth Crossing’s first purpose-built rental community, developed by NADG and professionally managed by Cogir. Designed to support the continued evolution of Dartmouth Crossing as a vibrant mixed-use community, Origin brings high-quality residential living to one of Atlantic Canada’s leading retail, commercial, and lifestyle destinations. Kara Panousis
Indian Brook, NS (782) 446-1668 treyleeglasgow@sipeknekatik.ca Non-Profit & Charities
Dartmouth, NS (902) 322-9932 originliving.ca
P&H MILLING GROUP Robert Bradford
Halifax, NS (902) 429-5142 rbradford@phmilling.com phmilling.com Manufacturing & Industrial
PUNK SCIENCE STUDIOS INC. Punk Science Studios Inc. is a software development studio in Halifax, Nova Scotia, specializing in video games and creative media. Created in 2015 to produce challenging and memorable video game experiences, the company has since expanded into tech leadership, fractional CTO services, and AI transformation and consulting. Darryl Wright Halifax, NS (902) 580-5461 punkscience.ca
RAE TENCH - INVESTIA FINANCIAL SERVICES/ IA FINANCIAL GROUP Rae Tench
Bedford, NS (902) 209-5371 rae.tench@iainvestia.ca Finance & Insurance
SCHOOL OF ROCK HALIFAX
Trey-lee Glasgow
SKILLS CANADA - NOVA SCOTIA SCNS is a registered not-for-profit organization that has spent 28 years inspiring young Nova Scotians to discover careers in the skilled trades and technologies. Each year, SCNS engages thousands of students province-wide through competitions, career showcases, Try-A-Trade® experiences, skills workshops, and inclusive classroom programming. Tanvi Dabas Dartmouth, NS (902) 818-0097 lauraking@skillsns.ca skillsns.ca
SOLVX TECH & TRADE INC. SolvX Tech & Trade Inc. is a Halifaxbased technology trading company connecting governments and institutions worldwide with vetted, export-compliant technology hardware and aerospace spare parts. Backed by over ten years of combined public sector and international business experience, SolvX supports Canadian institutions, government, and defence programs while delivering compliance-grade sourcing to allied nations. Bali Jakir SCMP, PMP, PSPP Beechville, NS (902) 818-5985 bali.jakir@solvx.ca solvx.ca Business & Professional Services
SUSAN GRAY - PENINSULA CANADA Susan Gray
Halifax, NS (902) 452-3156 susan.gray@peninsula-ca.com peninsulacanada.ca
Nathan Young
THE CROWN BASKETBALL SOCIETY
Does anyone really need another lanyard or branded mug? We have to think that’s a hard ‘no’. At White Point, we’re welcoming our Meeting Guests with a coffee break, an evening bonfire complete with marshmallows, and a unique team building activity – on the house – because we like to do things differently at the beach. Confirm a meeting with Melissa at 902.354.8043 before September 30th (for any booking from now until April 30/27) and watch sparks fly in the best way possible.
Beaverbank, NS (902) 222-3146 thecrownbasketball@gmail.com thecrownbasketballsociety.ca Arts, Culture & Entertainment
THE HALIFAX HEALTH AND WELLNESS SHOW Celeste Levy
Bedford, NS (902) 240-0047 halifaxhealthwellnessshow@ gmail.com thehalifaxhealthandwellnessshow.ca Health & Wellness
THE SEPTIC GUYS Trusted septic system specialists and excavation experts serving Halifax Regional Municipality. Evan Samways Middle Sackville, NS (902) 223-4428 thesepticguyshalifax@gmail.com thesepticguysinc.jobbersites.ca Construction & Real Estate
THIRD SECTOR ENHANCEMENT LTD. A boutique consulting and facilitation firm specializing in strategic and business planning for not-for-profit and community-based organizations. Chris Pelham Glen Haven, NS (902) 717-6291 thirdsectorenhancement.com Business & Professional Services
Trinity Energy Group is a full-service contractor and leading provider of building envelope, construction, and energy efficiency solutions for residential and SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026
Meeting perks that spark the imagination.
The Crown Basketball Society is a Halifax-based registered non-profit dedicated to empowering youth aged ten to 17 through basketball and community connection. Now in its ninth season, the organization hosts an annual fundraiser at the George Dixon Centre, raising over $11,000 last year to support families and youth initiatives across Atlantic Canada. Tyrell Williams
TRINITY ENERGY GROUP
Bedford, NS (914) 257-7261 halifax@schoolofrock.com halifax.schoolofrock.com Arts, Culture & Entertainment 10
NEWSMAKERS
Say ‘yes' to fall meeting today!
1.800.565.5068 whitepoint.com commercial clients across Atlantic Canada. Through its family of companies, Trinity offers comprehensive solutions from a single, trusted partner to general contractors and clients across the business spectrum. Jennifer MacKinnon Dartmouth, NS (877) 955-4333 jmackinnon@trinityenergygroup.ca trinityenergygroup.ca Energy & Environment
UBUNTU MEDIA Ubuntu Media is an independent studio founded by Israel Ekanem and Monica G. Bell, committed to telling important stories about topical issues through documentaries, narrative film, commercials, podcasts, and social media. Israel Ekanem Halifax, NS (902) 305-8172 israeliekanem@gmail.com Arts, Culture & Entertainment
UNCOG ENTERPRISES INC Uncog is a boutique Halifax AI consulting practice founded by Kareem Mayan. We help CEOs assess where their company sits on the AI maturity curve and execute a plan to climb it. Kareem has helped dozens of clients globally and has three SaaS exits. Kareem Mayan Halifax, NS k@uncog.com uncog.com
VALUED ACTION PSYCHOLOGICAL Valued Action Psychological is a private practice psychological services clinic providing evidence-based psychotherapy for adults and assessment services for adults and children aged eight and up. Our team is located in Bedford, Nova Scotia, and offers many services both in person and virtually. Erin Clahane Bedford, NS (902) 444-0131 valuedactionpsychological.ca
VETS CANADA VETS Canada is a federally registered charity providing immediate, on-theground support to veterans of the Canadian Armed Forces and RCMP who are in crisis, at risk of homelessness, or already experiencing homelessness. Debbie Lowther Dartmouth, NS (888) 228-3871 debbie.lowther@vetscanada.org vetscanada.org Non-Profit & Charities
VISATALENTS CANADA WORKS INC. Vijayaraju Ashokraju
Truro, NS (908) 917-9949 support@visatalents.ca visatalents.ca
BUSINESS VOICE
WCAP DETAILING WCAP Detailing Inc. is a professional mobile auto detailing company serving Halifax, Dartmouth, Bedford, and surrounding communities. We provide interior and exterior detailing, paint correction, ceramic coating application, headlight restoration, and other vehicle appearance services at our customers’ homes or workplaces. Austin Plemel Halifax, NS (902) 536-3404 wcapbusiness@gmail.com wcapdetailing.com
YELLOW BOOTS CREATIVE STUDIO Yellow Boots Creative Studio helps businesses shape a strong and cohesive brand presence—from visual identity and content to storytelling. We create high-quality visuals and define brand direction that makes businesses recognizable and consistent. Halifax-based, we are evolving into smart content systems and streamlined workflows for modern brands. Olesya Zhuk Dartmouth, NS (902) 237-5877 hello@yellowbootsstudio.ca
ZN NOVO SOLUTIONS Zainab Almukhtar
Halifax, NS znnovosolutions@gmail.com Health & Wellness 11
NEWSMAKERS
NEWSMAKERS
MEMBERS IN THE NEWS How our members are growing Halifax
MEET PEI’S SUSAN FREEMAN RECEIVES INTERNATIONAL LEADERSHIP AWARD
THE THIRSTY READER POPS UP AT WONDER WOMEN CONFERENCE The Thirsty Reader, a mobile pop-up bookstore bringing curated reads to breweries, wineries, conference venues, and community spaces across the Maritimes, is expanding to new markets in 2026—including the Halifax Chamber of Commerce’s Wonder Women Conference in June. Recent partnerships span conferences, retirement communities, resorts, and local businesses. The mission: promote literacy and make discovering your next favourite book a little more personal, accessible, and fun. Photo credit: Kelly Clark.
TAHOORS CREATIVE MARKETING FOUNDER SELECTED FOR G20 YEA SUMMIT Basam Murtaza Tahoor, Founder of Halifax-based Tahoors Creative Marketing, has been selected as one of approximately 40 Canadian delegates to attend the 2026 G20 Young Entrepreneurs’ Alliance Summit in Vienna, Austria. The summit brings together young entrepreneurs from G20 economies to exchange ideas and contribute to policy discussions on entrepreneurship and economic growth. Basam will represent both Canada and Nova Scotia on the global stage.
Meet PEI Executive Director Susan Freeman has become the first Canadian to receive the 2026 Destination Organization Leadership Award from Destinations International, one of the industry’s highest honours in destination marketing and management. Freeman was recognized for her leadership in advancing Prince Edward Island’s business events sector and strengthening the Island’s reputation as a premier meetings and conventions destination.
NOVA SCOTIA SHARK RESEARCH HEADS TO DISCOVERY’S SHARK WEEK Atlantic Shark Expeditions founder Dr. Neil Hammerschlag was featured on Discovery’s Shark Week special Invasion of the Mega Sharks, which premiered on Sunday, July 26. The episode follows Hammerschlag and his team tracking “Big Rose,” believed to be among the largest great white sharks in the North Atlantic, using innovative tagging technology off Nova Scotia’s coast.
ACE MACHINING RECEIVES FEDERAL INVESTMENT IN RESPONSE TO U.S. TARIFFS
PERO SEO SHORTLISTED FOR 2026 US AGENCY AWARDS
THE PIER WELCOMES HAMILTON OSHAWA PORT AUTHORITY The PIER innovation ecosystem has welcomed the Hamilton Oshawa Port Authority (HOPA) as its newest member, further strengthening its global network of ports, technology companies, supply chain partners, researchers, and startups. The partnership aims to advance port innovation and practical supply chain solutions, with HOPA focusing on supply chain visibility, bulk cargo safety and efficiency, and environmental sustainability initiatives. 12
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Pero SEO has been shortlisted for the 2026 US Agency Awards in the Best SEO Campaign category. The nomination recognizes the agency’s work restoring search visibility for a top U.S. children’s hospital network following major Google AI updates. Using its proprietary SLOPE® process, Pero SEO reversed severe traffic declines, driving a 204% increase in monthly clicks—up to 21,000.
HALIFAX STANFIELD ON TRACK FOR RECORD 4.4 MILLION PASSENGERS Halifax Stanfield International Airport is projecting a record 4.4 million passengers in 2026 after its strongest second quarter to date, with volumes up 12 per cent yearover-year. June saw passenger numbers rise 19 per cent, driven by a 41 per cent surge in international traffic. “More travellers are choosing Halifax Stanfield, and that growth reflects the strength of our region,” says Joyce Carter, President & CEO of the Halifax International Airport Authority. BUSINESS VOICE
Dartmouth-based Ace Machining Ltd. has received more than $400,000 through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s Regional Tariff Response Initiative to purchase and install a Matsuura MX-420 automated CNC milling station. The investment will increase productivity and efficiency and strengthen the company’s position as a premium supplier in the Canadian market. When the first round of U.S. tariffs was introduced, Ace removed American suppliers from consideration during equipment procurement. The funding is part of a broader $14.1 million ACOA announcement supporting 27 Nova Scotia businesses. “We hope that if enough Canadian companies make similar decisions, it will send a clear message,” says President and Co-owner Ron Wallace.
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NEWSMAKERS
NEWSMAKERS
LIGHTHOUSE TRANSPORTATION NAMED TOP FLEET FINALIST
NOURISH NOVA SCOTIA UNVEILS NEW MURAL ON TRAVELLING TRAILER Nourish Nova Scotia has unveiled a new mural on its Grow Eat Learn Trailer, designed by professional artists Prince Churchill and Bria Chiome-Miller using ideas submitted by youth across Nova Scotia. Four youth artists helped produce the finished piece at Common Roots Urban Farm BiHi. The mural explores connections between food, climate, community, and growth. Learn more at nourishns.ca.
Halifax-based Lighthouse Transportation has been named a finalist for the 2026 Top Fleet Employers Small Fleet Award by Trucking HR Canada, which recognizes Canadian fleets for excellence in employee engagement, workplace culture, and HR practices. Winners will be announced at the Top Fleet Employers Awards Gala in Toronto on October 14.
HALIFAX EXECUTIVE COACH PUBLISHES AMAZON #1 BESTSELLER Halifax executive coach Harriette Schumacher has published her first book, The Ground Truth: A Field Guide for Leaders, which reached #1 on Amazon in Team Management and Coaching within 48 hours of launch. Drawing on twenty years of experience and more than 850 leader assessments, the book helps leaders identify root causes of team dysfunction. Available on Amazon and at harrietteschumacher. com. Schumacher celebrates the launch with a Halifax event on September 24.
CAPSTONE CEO FEATURED ON DIGITAL NOVA SCOTIA PODCAST Capstone CEO Cynthia Giles was recently featured on the All Hands on Tech podcast, hosted by Digital Nova Scotia. Giles discussed nearly ten years in business, leading organizational change, and Capstone’s work supporting digital transformation in emergency services and 911. Listen wherever you find your podcasts, or visit digitalnovascotia.com/all-hands-on-tech.
CABCO COMMUNICATIONS REBRANDS AS CABCO TECHNOLOGIES
ANDERSON FILMS DOCUMENTS THE LIFE OF DR. MAYANN E. FRANCIS Halifax-based Anderson Films is in production on Queen of the Pier, a documentary about The Honourable Dr. Mayann E. Francis, former Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia and the first Black Nova Scotian to serve as the Queen’s representative in the province. Directed by Andre Anderson, the film traces Dr. Francis’s journey from her roots in Whitney Pier. The world premiere is set for the Hot Docs International Documentary Festival in 2027.
SITE 20/20 AND ATLANTICA MECHANICAL CONTRACTORS RECEIVE FEDERAL INVESTMENT Two Dartmouth manufacturers have received federal investments totaling more than $1.2 million through ACOA’s Regional Economic Growth through Innovation program. Site 20/20 Inc. will use $745,000 to expand manufacturing capacity and create 50 to 60 skilled jobs in automated traffic control technology. Atlantica Mechanical Contractors Inc. will use $456,291 to modernize its sheet metal fabrication facility and acquire automated equipment to increase productivity and capacity. 14
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026
U.S. CONSULATE GENERAL HALIFAX CELEBRATES 193 YEARS The U.S. Consulate General in Halifax turns 193 years old in September! A cornerstone of diplomacy, we have proudly called Halifax home since 1833. As the first diplomatic presence in British North America, our roots run deep, anchored by nearly two centuries of business-to-business ties. We were deeply moved to receive an inaugural Downtown Halifax Business Achievement Award this summer. Looking ahead, we are excited to work alongside Halifax’s visionary leaders as we continue our shared journey to increase prosperity and safety on both sides of our enduring border.
After 46 years serving businesses across the Maritimes, Cabco Communications has a new name: Cabco Technologies. The rebrand reflects the company’s expanded scope—from managed IT and cybersecurity to network cabling, Wi-Fi, premises security, and unified communications. “This evolution in our brand brings to focus what is at our core, using technologies to help customers achieve business success,” says President and CEO Mike Mills. The team and commitment to customers remain unchanged.
BUSINESS VOICE
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COVER STORY
COVER STORY
Staying power Four local businesses and organizations reflect on monumental anniversary milestones By Emily Bednarz
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mall Business Month tends to spotlight beginnings: the launch, the first sale, the ribbon across a new door. The four businesses and organizations on these pages are marking all of the hard work that comes next. Three of them are turning 30 this year. The fourth is celebrating ten. Each was built by a small team that stayed the course through complex lease commitments, economic barriers, and goals that looked impossibly ambitious on day one. Here are their stories, in their own words. Looking back at BBI’s earliest days, Martel would offer one piece of advice: think bigger. “You’re not just building a program. You’re building a legacy institution that will be the gold standard that other organizations will model their support from,” he says. “There will be moments when progress feels slow and when the barriers seem bigger than the organization trying to address them. Keep going.” Thirty years in, Martel knows the impact is undeniable. “When people are given genuine access to opportunity, they do extraordinary things.”
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One Day Affair Inc.
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CELEBRATING TEN YEARS
Black Business Initiative
Shannon Boland-Musseau, Owner onedayaffair.ca -------------------------------------------
CELEBRATING 30 YEARS
Shannon Boland-Musseau opened One Day Affair with a plan she abandoned almost immediately. Ten years later, the award-winning, Indigenous woman-owned and Rainbow Certified event design company runs out of a 3,000-square-foot space with a team of 11. “To quote Charles Dickens: ‘It was the best of times and the worst of times,’” says Boland-Musseau of year one. “The initial concept of the business was to take used wedding decor and florals that were no longer needed, customize them, and resell them. However, I was not the best at bargaining, and everyone had an opinion.” The learning curve was steep. “Did I mention I also jumped straight into a lease without fully understanding the commitment or my business model? Can you say entrepreneur?” However, Boland-Musseau didn’t walk away from the dream; she kept 16
adjusting. “After a lot of mason jars and wine bottles—some of which I drank—I started curating my own collection of customized florals and decor. Very quickly I realized that I was unique in the market and eventually started building the business into what One Day Affair is today. Currently, One Day Affair specializes in weddings, corporate events, event design, decor and customizable faux-floral collections. When the team isn’t transforming venues across the Maritimes, its intimate venue, One Day Social Affair, hosts weddings, corporate gatherings and celebrations. “The growth has been substantial since our first 450-square-foot shop,” says Boland-Musseau. “But while so much has changed over the past ten years, the things that matter most remain the same. Our commitment to exceptional service and the culture we have built.” While she is happy to celebrate ten SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026
years in business, she is already thinking past this milestone. “Our long-term goal is to continue building One Day Affair Inc. into a strong, sustainable company with diverse revenue streams, meaningful employment opportunities, and room for our team to grow,” says Boland-Musseau. “Ultimately, we want to build a company that is bigger than any one person, continues to evolve, and is positioned for a strong future for years to come.” Asked what she would tell her year-one self, Boland-Musseau lands on process and self-belief. “Create a viable business plan along with great operational processes and procedures—manila folders and paper invoices only take you so far—but most importantly continue to believe in yourself,” she says. “What may start as an idea can evolve quickly, and don’t be afraid to change that idea to better suit the demands of your industry.”
Matthew Martel, Chief Executive Officer bbi.ca ------------------------------------------The Black Business Initiative (BBI) turns 30 this year, three decades after a community task force set out to build something that didn’t exist. CEO Matthew Martel is clear about why it was created. “BBI began in 1996 because Black leaders in Nova Scotia recognized that talented entrepreneurs were being held back by barriers that traditional business systems were not adequately addressing,” says Martel. “Year one was really about building something that had not existed before—a trusted organization focused specifically on Black entrepreneurship, providing business knowledge, advice, access to financing, and connections to the broader business community.” One founding principle shaped everything after. “What stands out to me is that BBI was never built around the idea of charity,” says Martel. “One of its
founding principles was that the Black community needed access to fulfill their potential through access to business knowledge, skills, and opportunity. That belief remains fundamental to who we are today.” The organization’s reach now extends across Atlantic Canada, but Martel says the core conviction remains. “What hasn’t changed is probably more important: our belief in the potential of Black entrepreneurs,” he says. He wants the next milestone measured in concrete results. “At our next milestone, I want us to be able to point not only to how many entrepreneurs we supported, but to the businesses, jobs, wealth, and institutions that were built as a result,” says Martel. “I want Atlantic Canada to be recognized as one of the best places in the country for Black entrepreneurs to build businesses.” BUSINESS VOICE
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Clearview Promotions CELEBRATING 30 YEARS
Robert Gaede, Owner clearviewpromo.ca ------------------------------------------Robert Gaede also marks 30 years this year, with Clearview Promotions, a distributor of customized branded merchandise. His first year reads like a lot of first years. “Our first year was a whirlwind of learning and growth,” says Gaede. “Starting from scratch, I navigated the 17
SPOTLIGHT
COVER STORY
Robert Gaede is Owner of Clearview Promotions. He was recognized for his contribution as Chair of the Transportation Committee from 2006-2010 for the Halifax Chamber of Commerce. He and the Clearview team enjoy their “Summer Board Room” (pictured bottom right).
challenges of setting up an office, building operational systems, and making Clearview Promotions known in the community.” One early decision proved formative. “One of my earliest and most impactful decisions was joining the Chamber of Commerce, which opened doors to networking and collaboration,” says Robert. “Getting involved in Chamber committees and later chairing the Transportation Committee for four years helped establish our reputation and build lasting relationships.” Three decades on, the business is steady, and Gaede credits a consistent set of priorities. “What remains unchanged is our commitment to customer satisfaction. We continue to prioritize delivering quality, accurately customized products on time,” he says. “Our core values—reliability, attention to detail, and a customer-first mindset—have been the foundation of our success from day one.” Gaede’s plan for what comes next is just as steady. “I want Clearview Promotions to continue our focus on meeting our clients’ promotional needs, remaining a trusted partner,” he says. His advice to his year-one self is clear. “Be persistent and never stop learning,” says Robert. “The journey of 18
Navigating the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project opportunity
building a business is filled with challenges and opportunities, and perseverance is key. Embrace every lesson, seek out new knowledge, and trust that dedication and continuous improvement will lead to long-term success.”
How can Atlantic Canadian businesses prepare?
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Divert NS CELEBRATING 30 YEARS
Stacy Breau, Chief Executive Officer divertns.ca ------------------------------------------Known first as the Resource Recovery Fund Board, Divert NS was established in 1996 to deliver Nova Scotia’s new waste-resource strategy, and CEO Stacy Breau says the early target was daunting. “The province had set an ambitious goal of diverting 50% of waste from landfill by the year 2000, requiring more than 319,000 tonnes of waste to be diverted annually,” says Breau. “Nova Scotia did in fact achieve their 50% diversion goal by 2000, becoming the first province or state in North America to do so.” Much has changed, but Breau points to a model that has held since the beginning. “What hasn’t changed is our SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026
purpose. We remain committed to helping Nova Scotia reduce waste, protect the environment, and strengthen the province’s waste management systems,” she says. “The partnership model established in our first year—returning revenues to municipalities and investing in waste diversion solutions—continues to be at the heart of everything we do.” She sees room to lead further. “As the only province in Canada to undertake regular landfill audits, we are able to provide a clear picture of what is still ending up in landfill, allowing us to identify problematic materials, develop new diversion opportunities, and inform policy decisions based on real data,” says Breau. Her message to her year-one self doubles as a summary of the decades since. “Trust the vision,” says Breau. “What starts as an ambitious goal to cut waste in half will transform the way Nova Scotians think about end-of-life resources. The partnerships you build, the programs you launch, and the culture of recycling you create will make Nova Scotia a recognized leader in waste diversion and show that meaningful environmental change is possible.” ■
BY JANE BATES, PATRICK FITZGERALD, GABRIELLE GREENER, AND PATRICK SULLIVAN OF COX & PALMER
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anada’s decision to name Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) as the preferred supplier for up to 12 new Type 212CD submarines represents a major step in what could become the largest defence procurement in Canada’s history. For Atlantic Canadian businesses in naval defence support, marine manufacturing, technology, construction, and professional services sectors, this project represents an opportunity to be part of an unprecedented influx of industrial investment.
How can Atlantic Canadian businesses prepare for this opportunity? Canada’s Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy (ITB) requires TKMS to generate business activity in Canada equal to the value of the contract. That means Atlantic
Canadian companies will have opportunities to compete for related work and capture a substantial share of this spending. Businesses that proactively assess their operations scalability, compliance obligations, workforce capacity, financing needs, and potential partnerships to identify any gaps in preparedness will be the ones best prepared to compete. Engaging experienced legal counsel early will be key for businesses as they navigate regulatory requirements, seek to protect key assets, structure strategic relationships, and position themselves to compete effectively as the project advances.
A region already built for this Atlantic Canada is not starting from zero. It is home to an ecosystem of firms, skilled workers, ports, shipyards, research institutions, testing facilities, and industry organizations that collectively support defence and marine-sector activity and is ideally positioned to benefit from the industrial opportunities created by the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP). BUSINESS VOICE
Halifax in particular serves as a strategic hub for naval operations and defence innovation, with organizations such as NATO’s DIANA providing a regional presence connecting emerging technologies with alliance-wide defence priorities. Nova Scotia hosts major shipbuilding, naval support, ocean technology, and defence firms. New Brunswick has advanced manufacturing capabilities, logistics, cybersecurity, and engineering expertise. Prince Edward Island has aerospace components, advanced manufacturing, and specialized technology services. Newfoundland and Labrador has offshore operations, remote sensing, marine research, and Arctic-related expertise. Backed by a network of universities, colleges, and applied research centres, regional companies are active in arenas such as shipbuilding and marine engineering, training and simulation, sonar and acoustic systems, cyber resilience, communications technologies, defence systems integration, AI, remotely operated and autonomous systems, and professional engineering services.
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SPOTLIGHT
COVER STORY
“Whether the goal is to strengthen supplier readiness, negotiate commercial agreements, or navigate regulatory requirements, taking a proactive approach can help organizations improve their ability to compete for emerging opportunities and avoid costly delays.”
“I would like for decision makers to know that we have tremendous capacity here to support defence sector growth and, for that matter, population growth.” — Ava Czapalay, CEO of the Association of Atlantic Universities
The workforce behind the opportunity Companies competing for CPSP work will need engineers, technicians, tradespeople, and cybersecurity specialists. Atlantic Canada’s 16 universities are positioning themselves to respond. Atlantic Canada’s Prosperity Charter, a joint initiative of the Association of Atlantic Universities and the Atlantic Chamber of Commerce, asks employers and universities to commit to connecting student talent with regional opportunity. Ava Czapalay, CEO of the Association of Atlantic Universities, points to David Campbell’s Help Wanted, published by the Public Policy Forum in May 2026, as part of what prompted the charter. The paper describes a demographic timebomb in the region: an aging and shrinking population, with fewer immigrants and international students. “Atlantic Canada’s 16 universities, located in communities throughout the region, keep our youth here and produce the workforce that businesses need to thrive,” says Czapalay. The retention argument has data behind it. The Maritime Provinces Higher Education Commission has tracked graduate outcomes since 1996, and the majority of students who attend university in the region stay in it. Defence adds another layer. Many of the sector’s facilities and infrastructure sit in close proximity to campuses, and universities already partner with defence and marine firms through organizations such as Springboard Atlantic, supporting research into dual-use technologies with both commercial and naval applications. That relationship is expanding. Nova Scotia’s universities recently established an agreement with the Canadian Military, Veteran and Family Connected Campus Consortium to remove barriers 20
and build flexible academic pathways for active service members, reservists, veterans, and their families. Czapalay expects the agreement to extend across Atlantic Canada. For employers, the Charter asks for engagement before a graduate reaches the job market: networking events, industry panels, mentorship, workplace visits, co-op and internship placements, and hiring. Universities commit to expanding their work-integrated learning programs to meet that demand. Darren Czech, CEO of Cherubini Group of Companies, signed the Charter on that basis. “By sharing what we do, we can help students better understand potential career paths and discover opportunities they may not have otherwise considered,” says Czech. Czapalay’s next goal is a regional asset map showing what the 16
universities can offer the defence sector: programming, research capacity, and infrastructure already in place across Atlantic Canada. “I would like for decision makers to know that we have tremendous capacity here to support defence sector growth and, for that matter, population growth,” she says.
Long-term opportunities for Atlantic Canadian businesses A major defence procurement project presents an opportunity for decades of economic value in building initial facilities, workforce development, logistics, professional services, supply-chain integration, specialty manufacturing, coatings and materials, electronics integration, sensors and sonar technologies, cybersecurity and communications systems, engineering and technical services, environmental monitoring, facilities maintenance, and workforce training.
The Type 212CD is a next-generation diesel-electric submarine designed to strengthen Germany’s and Norway’s undersea capabilities through enhanced stealth, endurance, and interoperability in northern European waters. Photo: Team 212CD SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026
— Patrick Fitzgerald, Partner at Cox & Palmer. Many Atlantic Canadian companies already operate in these areas and have experience supporting complex projects. The CPSP program will also create pathways into European and NATOaligned supply chains. Because the project is being developed and operated in cooperation with Germany and Norway, Atlantic Canadian companies that successfully position themselves could gain exposure to international partners that will provide future opportunities beyond the Canadian market. For some businesses, the most valuable outcome may be the long-term relationships established with European defence contractors, suppliers, and alliance organizations.
Corporate Readiness •
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Assess whether your governance structure, policies, insurance coverage, and internal controls meet the expectations of major contractors and government purchasers. Review documentation practices to ensure records, reporting processes, and quality controls can withstand procurement scrutiny and audit requirements.
Workforce and Employment Planning •
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Identify certifications, registrations, and security obligations that may apply to your business, such as registration in the Controlled Goods Program or the Industrial Security Program. Consider whether your operations are prepared for program compliance, personnel security screening, cybersecurity requirements, export controls, sanctions compliance, and data-handling obligations.
Contract Review and Negotiation •
• •
Recognize that major foreign defence contractors often have complex contracting requirements, strict compliance expectations, and established supply-chain standards. Early legal review can help businesses negotiate effectively, protect their interests, and identify risks that may not be obvious during the bid or negotiation process. Understand the allocation of risk before signing supplier or subcontractor agreements. Pay particular attention to provisions relating to limitation of liability, indemnities, flow-down obligations, intellectual property ownership and licensing, confidentiality, audit rights, termination rights, warranty BUSINESS VOICE
Consider recruiting needs, security-clearance requirements, specialized labour demands, employee mobility issues, and workplace policies for participation in regulated defence-sector work.
Financing and Growth Strategy •
Compliance and Security Requirements
Get your business ready now for the opportunity ahead Participation, however, will require preparation. The opportunities will likely emerge in phases. In the near term, businesses may focus on supplier-readiness assessments, certifications, compliance planning, bid preparation, strategic partnerships, and relationship-building with prime contractors and supply-chain participants. Over the longer term, opportunities may expand into sustainment, infrastructure projects, training programs, systems integration, fleet support, and participation in international defence supply chains. “This is where early legal and strategic planning can create a competitive advantage,” says Patrick Fitzgerald, Partner at Cox & Palmer. “Whether the goal is to strengthen supplier readiness, negotiate commercial agreements, navigate regulatory requirements, or position a business for long-term growth, taking a proactive approach can help organizations improve their ability to compete for emerging opportunities and avoid costly delays.”
obligations, performance milestones, and dispute resolution.
Key considerations
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Assess whether additional capital, strategic partnerships, or corporate transactions may be needed to scale operations. Businesses may benefit from support with investment agreements, government funding applications, joint ventures, strategic alliances, acquisitions, or other growth initiatives designed to position them for defence-sector opportunities.
Now is an appropriate time to ask three practical questions: 1.
Where could your business contribute within the submarine supply chain? 2. What certifications, compliance requirements, or operational gaps need to be addressed? 3. What legal, contractual, or strategic support will be required before engaging with project primes, other defence-sector partners, and the government procurement processes? Getting these answers right and getting them early may determine not only whether your business participates, but how successfully it does so. ■
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MEMBER PROFILE
WORKING FOR YOU
Steel fabricated here, shipped everywhere
Building the workforce for Halifax’s next economic era
Cherubini Bridges and Structures on scale, skilled trades, and staying strong in Dartmouth By Emily Bednarz
Why the revolution is succeeding but the business is struggling
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hen Renato and Danilo Gasparetto immigrated to Nova Scotia from Italy, they fabricated and sold steel hand railings door to door. Almost 60 years later, Cherubini Bridges and Structures is the largest steel fabricator in Atlantic Canada, operating three Dartmouth facilities with more than 250,000 square feet of fabrication space. While the scale of the business has changed since the Gasparetto brothers were knocking on doors, the mindset has not. “They were never afraid to grow, invest or go after the next opportunity,” says Darren Czech, CEO. “That stays with us today. We’re always looking around the corner for opportunities.” Transitioning from a railing shop to complex international infrastructure work took decades of deliberate investment in people, facilities, automation, and more. “That didn’t happen overnight,” says Czech. “We’ve progressively built the business to take on larger and more complicated work.” Ask why the head office never left Dartmouth and Czech turns the question around. “Why move?” he says. “Being in Dartmouth doesn’t hold us back. It gives us an advantage.” The Pleasant Street facility has deep-water access to Halifax Harbour, which means Cherubini can fabricate structures at a scale that would be difficult to move by road and ship them directly from the yard. “The Keating Channel Pedestrian Bridge being built for Toronto’s waterfront is a good example,” says Czech. “It’s a signature pedestrian bridge with a complex architectural design. We’re fabricating it Gordie Howe International Bridge
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SUBMITTED ON BEHALF OF THE HALIFAX PARTNERSHIP
A Darren Czech (CEO, Cherubini Bridges and Structures)
here in Dartmouth using Canadian steel, and it will be fully assembled and trial fitted here before travelling hundreds of kilometres by barge as one completed structure.” Cherubini also fabricated and supplied spans and components for the Gordie Howe International Bridge, which recently opened between Windsor and Detroit. At 2.5 kilometres, it is the longest cable-stayed bridge in North America. “Our people helped fabricate one of the most significant pieces of infrastructure connecting Canada and the United States,” says Czech. “I think people are sometimes surprised by the scale and sophistication of what’s being done here.” Keeping that expertise in the building starts with retention. “Cherubini has always been a company where people are treated as more than employees,” says Czech. “The owners know people by name. They know their families. They walk the floor. They know when someone is celebrating a milestone or when a family is going through a difficult time. Those things may sound small, but over a career they matter.” As a proud Canadian company, Cherubini’s success has been built by people from many different backgrounds and countries. Cherubini’s team includes many employees who came to Canada from around the world, and the company has supported workers and their families as they establish themselves here. “The SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026
best recruitment strategy is creating a company where good people want to stay and where they will encourage others to join them,” says Czech. That closeness, along with its leadership structure, is what Czech credits for Cherubini’s recognition as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies by Deloitte. Looking ahead, Czech sees opportunity in energy, defence, major infrastructure, and the renewed focus on Canadian supply chains. “Cherubini has never waited for a market to take off before investing in it,” says Czech. “You don’t build capacity for the project you have today. You have to be thinking about what customers are going to need tomorrow.” His advice to other Nova Scotia manufacturers eyeing growth: find a mentor, join associations where members help each other, learn what funding and export programs exist, and then pick up the phone. “The opportunity is likely closer than you think,” says Czech. “Nova Scotia has world-class manufacturing and infrastructure expertise. Sometimes we need to think bigger about where it can take us.” ■
little more than a decade ago, Halifax faced a different future. Population growth remained well below the national average. Our workforce was aging, immigration lagged behind much of the country, and too many young people were leaving to pursue opportunities elsewhere in Canada. Halifax wasn’t living up to its potential, and there was growing concern about what the future might hold. Over the past decade, Halifax has changed that trajectory and built incredible economic momentum. Businesses have expanded, and new industries have emerged. Our economy has grown faster than expected, reaching the GDP target set out in Halifax’s current economic strategy two years ahead of schedule. Today, our region is attracting more investment, creating more jobs, and competing on the national and global stage. Those results reflect years of collaboration and sustained commitment from businesses, governments, post-secondary institutions and economic development organizations that believed Halifax could be more ambitious, more competitive, and more prosperous. Today, we’re standing at another pivotal moment. Generational investments in defence and security, along with continued growth in housing, healthcare, and technology, present tremendous opportunities for Halifax and for Canada that will require thousands of skilled workers. Halifax is well positioned to help deliver on local and national priorities, but our ability to supply the workers industry needs will determine how much of that opportunity we can realize. Changes to federal immigration
Halifax has changed its economic trajectory over the past decade, and the opportunities ahead are even greater. Realizing them will depend on our ability to continue building the workforce our economy needs. and international student policies are making that job more difficult. Nova Scotia’s immigration allocation was cut from 6,300 spots in 2024 to 3,150 in 2025. Although the federal government has since committed to increasing allocations in 2026 following requests from the provinces, ongoing uncertainty makes workforce planning challenging. At the same time, new federal caps and study permit rules have reduced by thousands the number of international students Nova Scotia’s post-secondary institutions can recruit and enrol each year. Businesses in our region have invested heavily in recruiting and training international employees. Many fill roles employers have struggled to staff for years. They have become experienced team members, managers, and technical specialists whose skills support business growth. Today, many employers face the prospect of losing these employees because work permits are expiring while pathways to permanent residency have become less certain. Halifax Partnership hears almost daily from employers about the impacts on their business and employees who face uncertainty about their future in Halifax. Replacing experienced workers in an already competitive labour market carries real costs for businesses and delays future growth. The pipeline for our future workforce is also under pressure. The number of international students at Halifax universities fell by 14.2% in 2024-25 compared with the previous year. From January to April 2026, the number of completed study permit applications in Nova Scotia was approximately 36% lower than during the same period BUSINESS VOICE
in 2025. Processing delays, frequent policy changes, and more restricted pathways from study to permanent residency are eroding confidence in Nova Scotia and Canada as a destination. Fewer international students today will mean fewer engineers, skilled tradespeople, healthcare professionals, researchers and other specialists entering Nova Scotia’s workforce in the years ahead. A predictable and transparent visa system is essential to restoring confidence and ensuring we can continue competing for the world’s best talent. Atlantic Canada faces different workforce realities than many other parts of the country. An older population and a smaller labour market mean immigration and international students play a larger role in supporting business growth and addressing workforce shortages. As Canada advances nation-building projects, including major defence investments, regional workforce policies need to reflect those realities and provide provinces with the flexibility to attract and retain the talent required to deliver them. Halifax Partnership and Halifax Regional Municipality have begun developing Halifax’s next economic strategy. Workforce availability and readiness will be one of its defining priorities, with a focus on the labour policies, programs, and partnerships needed to grow strategic sectors and drive long-term economic growth. The past decade demonstrated what Halifax can achieve when businesses have access to the talent they need to grow and succeed. The next decade will demand even more. Now is the time to ensure Halifax has the workforce to power our next economic era. ■ 23
TRENDS
TRENDS
Strengthening Nova Scotia’s skilled trades workforce
Chronic stress at work Moving beyond perks to redesigning systems and preventing burnout
PREP Academy creating pathways for African Nova Scotian youth and supporting the province’s skilled trades sector
SUBMITTED ON BEHALF OF THE PREP ACADEMY
A
cross Nova Scotia, the demand for skilled trades professionals continues to grow. From residential construction and manufacturing to clean energy and infrastructure, employers are facing an ongoing challenge: finding enough skilled workers to meet the needs of today while preparing for tomorrow. Addressing this challenge requires more than recruitment. It means creating pathways that allow more young people to see themselves in skilled trades careers, access meaningful opportunities, and receive the support needed to succeed. For many African Nova Scotian youth, those pathways have not always been visible or accessible. While interest and talent are abundant in our community, systemic barriers, limited exposure to career options, and a lack of representation within the trades have contributed to lower participation in apprenticeship and certification pathways. Expanding the future workforce means ensuring those barriers are addressed. The African Nova Scotian Skilled Trades Strategy was created to help do exactly that. Supported through funding from the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency and the Province of Nova Scotia, the strategy brings together The PREP Academy, educators, families, employers, industry, and community organizations to expand access to skilled trades pathways and support long-term success for African Nova Scotians in the industry. The approach recognizes that career development does not begin when someone applies for an apprenticeship. It starts
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DR. DENISE DALEY CEO & CHIEF WELLNESS SCIENTIST NASORE WELLNESS, HALIFAX
A much earlier, with awareness, exposure, mentorship, and trusted relationships that help young people explore possibilities and make informed decisions about their futures. Youth benefit from guidance as they navigate education and career pathways. Families gain a better understanding of the opportunities available within the trades. Employers and industry partners have opportunities to connect with emerging talent while helping shape a workforce that reflects the diversity of Nova Scotia’s communities. Success also depends on collaboration. Schools, training providers, employers, unions, community organizations, and government all have an important role to play in creating a stronger workforce. When these partners work together, young people receive more consistent support, employers gain access to a broader talent pipeline, and communities benefit from increased economic participation and long-term career success. This collaborative approach also SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026
helps strengthen workforce retention. Youth who receive mentorship, culturally responsive support, and opportunities to build meaningful industry connections are better positioned to complete training, persist through apprenticeship, and build rewarding careers in the trades. As the skilled trades continue to evolve, so too must the way talent is developed. Investing in young people, creating inclusive pathways, and strengthening partnerships across sectors will help build a workforce that is not only larger, but more resilient, innovative, and representative of the communities it serves. The future of skilled trades in Nova Scotia depends on the decisions made today. By creating more equitable pathways into these careers, we can strengthen the province’s workforce while ensuring the next generation has every opportunity to contribute, succeed, and help build the future. Learn more about The PREP Academy at: theprepacademy.ca
cross industries and regions, a quiet but costly issue is shaping today’s workplaces: chronic stress built into the way work is designed. For years, workplace wellness has been framed as a collection of perks such as gym discounts or meditation apps. While well-intentioned, these efforts often sit at the margins of organizational life. They are added on, not built in, and when workloads intensify or budgets tighten, they are usually the first to disappear. Meanwhile, burnout, disengagement, absenteeism, and turnover continue to rise across sectors. This contrast reveals an important truth: wellness cannot be peripheral. If organizations want resilient, high-performing teams, wellbeing must be embedded into HR strategy, leadership practice, and the design of work itself. A consistent pattern has emerged. Workplaces that move beyond perks and treat wellbeing as infrastructure, not entertainment, are far more successful at sustaining both people and performance. The issue with perk-based wellness is not that wellness “doesn’t work,” but that many initiatives are disconnected from real workload pressures, rely heavily on individual motivation, and overlook psychological safety and culture. When employees are overwhelmed, being told to “practice self-care” without
Burnout is not fixed by perks. It is prevented by redesigning stressful work systems to protect performance and wellbeing. addressing how work is structured can feel dismissive. Over time, responsibility for burnout quietly shifts from the organization to the individual. Meaningful wellness therefore requires a shift, from helping people cope to redesigning the conditions that generate chronic stress. This is where structural stressors come into focus. Structural stressors are systemic features of the workplace that consistently generate strain, regardless of individual resilience or coping skills. Chronic workload overload, unclear roles, excessive meetings, constant digital availability, and low autonomy paired with high accountability are common examples. Unlike acute stress, these pressures are predictable and preventable. When left unaddressed, they erode trust, increase sick time, and drive burnout, often among the most capable employees. From an HR strategy perspective, removing structural stressors directly strengthens performance. Chronic stress depletes attention, memory, and decision-making, reducing work quality even among skilled teams. When unnecessary friction is removed and expectations are clarified, cognitive capacity improves. Engagement rises when work feels fair, BUSINESS VOICE
manageable, and meaningful, and retention improves as burnout-driven turnover declines. Psychological safety and innovation also benefit when clarity replaces constant urgency. Embedding wellness into HR strategy means shifting from individual resilience to organizational responsibility. This shift shows up in how roles are designed, how performance is measured, how leaders are trained, and how policies protect recovery, flexibility, and dignity. One practical lever gaining attention is micro-recovery built into the workday. When supported by leadership norms, these interventions reduce fatigue and improve focus. Recovery must be designed into the workday, not left to personal willpower. High performance is not produced by constant pressure. It is sustained by clarity, capacity, and recovery. When wellness moves from perks to strategy and structural stressors are addressed at their source, employees do not just feel better, they work better. That shift is where real, sustainable workplace wellness begins. Learn more about Nasore Wellness at: nasorewellness.ca 25
TRENDS
TRENDS
Brand photography isn’t a photoshoot
Stop talking AI. Start talking human.
It’s a visibility strategy delivered in photographs
AI adoption fails when leaders lead with tools. Human-first adoption builds trust, confidence, and measurable value.
ALLISON SMITH FOUNDER | BRAND PHOTOGRAPHER DANDELION DIGITAL
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f you’ve ever compared photographers and their packages, and been confused by the differences in pricing, you’re not alone. The differences can have several considerations. More than the number of photos, the experience of the photographer and the purpose of the photos are top of the list. A family or wedding photographer takes photos that are emotional. Deliverables are a collection of memories. Typically prints for the wall and to share with grandparents. A personal brand photographer takes images that serve a purpose. They are the digital handshake that greets your next client before they meet you and keeps you in touch with your current ones. These days, people scan your website and socials before they decide to dig deeper into your offers. In that quick scan, your photos have an important job to do. They build a first impression. They showcase what it could be like to work with you. They can also create a disconnect when they display a past version of you. If your online images don’t keep up with your current level of experience, or even appearance, it can create confusion. Think of that time you met someone for the first time, and their LinkedIn headshot did not prepare you for the person who walked through the door or showed up on zoom. When your brand photography is consistent and on brand: • •
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Trust happens faster. People can see what you do, and what it’s like to work with you. You look consistent. Your brand feels
• •
established because your visuals match. You show up more. When your photos feel like you, posting is easier. You stop scrambling. No more hunting for a photo every time you post or are asked to submit a headshot.
Branding sessions should be built with intention, so your images feel on-brand and easy to plug into your marketing. Here’s what you can expect: Strategic planning: A detailed questionnaire to map your goals, audience, offers, and upcoming marketing needs. Planning call: A one-on-one call to align your shot list to your next launch, content, and key platforms. Professional direction: Posing guidance, so you feel confident and have fun in front of the camera. Curated gallery: A collection customized for your website, social media, and promotions. User License: Permission to use your images across your digital marketing. Content-ready files: Optimized web-ready to post, so your sites load fast and your images look sharp. SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026
Post-session support: Ideas to get started with your photos so your gallery gets used, not parked. A quick tip you can use today: scan the site your ideal client would visit first and answer these three questions: 1. 2. 3.
Are my current photos authentic to my message and the impression I want to leave? Is it clear what I offer, and how that benefits my target audience? What photos am I missing that would make things obvious?
If you’re feeling “meh” or unsure, I invite you to browse the Halifax Chamber of Commerce Directory for a photographer who specializes in brand photography (don’t forget to check for any Member 2 Member offers). This isn’t about more photos. It’s about strategic photos. Brand photography supports visibility so you can post with purpose. Your images shouldn’t just look nice; they should work for your business. Learn more about Dandelion Digital at: dandeliondigital.ca
MELISSA LLOYD FOUNDER AIGILITY HUB
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e’ve all tried AI. Experimented with it. Maybe even paid the subscription. But adoption ends there. According to a May 2026 KPMG study, only 3% of Canadian organizations have achieved measurable returns on their AI investments, and adoption has ground to a halt.
The problem isn’t the software. This lack of adoption is called the Value Gap, and it’s widening daily. In the Atlantic provinces, the small businesses and nonprofits that form our backbone seem stuck in limbo. A 2026 Imagine Canada study reveals that only 10% of nonprofits have a formal AI policy, leaving the charitable sector exposed to risk. Equally important is the establishment of guardrails. While these often stem from policy, they must be practical, simple, and easy to understand. The goal is to enable organizations to move forward with clarity and build confidence in place of any hesitation or fear. When integration works, the results are life-affirming. SMEs that adopt these tools effectively gain an average of 2.05 hours back per day. In a region squeezed by labour shortages, that’s the difference between scaling up and just getting by.
The barrier isn’t technical. It’s human.
Canadians deserve a human-first approach.
Employee resistance to AI in Canada is almost double the global average. This is not because people can’t absorb the technology, they can, but rather that the process is exhausting and feels like starting at the bottom again. Many quite rightly worry if their once-prized judgment is now being overwritten. That’s when people feel replaceable and, instead of leaning in, pull back. Hence the need to put people ahead of their tools. Some organizations choose to give unlimited access with little or no guidance. It is what I call the “Gym Membership Effect.” We sign up, try it a few times, and then abandon it. That’s because it is simply one more workload on top of a day that is already too full. Similarly, some companies try to layer new systems over an existing workflow, causing even more headaches than before. Start by assessing time leaks and areas where you can cut down on mundane tasks. Choose pain points that can be easily overcome and, minute by minute, put time back into an employee’s day. This builds confidence while simultaneously communicating that each team member’s time and judgment are of the utmost value.
Everything depends on leaders building trust. Adoption takes off when employees feel their institutional knowledge is being augmented, not replaced. What’s more, putting a human in the loop isn’t just good for morale; it increases accountability and lowers risk considerably. That’s why financial success relies so heavily on the human experience. I believe the future will not be won by the companies that automate the most. It will be won by those who remain deeply human. High-performing leaders will mitigate risk using sound judgment, making sure human oversight remains the final checkpoint for every decision to protect the reputation of the business going forward. Human-first adoption is not about slowing down. It is about understanding that confidence is a business imperative. It paves the way to greater innovation, reduces overspending on irrelevant software, and ensures that the chosen technology serves the mission, the tool serves the user, and the integrity of the organization remains intact. Leave it to humans to save the day.
BUSINESS VOICE
Learn more about Aigility Hub at: aigilityhub.ai 27
SPONSORED CONTENT
SPONSORED CONTENT
Ready when it counts How small businesses are building safer workplaces and supporting recovery PUBLISHED ON BEHALF OF WCB NOVA SCOTIA
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or small businesses, workplace safety is personal. On a close-knit team that feels more like family, everyone works together to keep things running smoothly. At Dartmouth Day Care Centre, Executive Director Angie DanielsDrummond has seen that firsthand during more than three decades with the organization. “I’ve had the honour and pleasure to be part of the Dartmouth Day Care Centre family for the past 33 years, and it’s truly my second home,” says Angie. Most small businesses in Nova Scotia don’t experience workplace injuries often, but when they do, it can leave an already small team short-staffed and a business scrambling to keep up. For Angie, creating a safer workplace means keeping prevention top of mind so that everyone who enters the building feels safe and supported. Preparation can be especially important for small businesses. Unlike larger organizations, many small employers don’t have a dedicated health and safety team, so building safety habits into daily routines is what makes the biggest impact. Matt Ross, Director of Employer Performance at WCB Nova Scotia, says the fundamentals go a long way: identifying and addressing hazards, talking regularly with employees about safety, and providing training and orientation so everyone understands their role. “Safety is less about paperwork and more about recognizing hazards before someone gets hurt,” he says. That kind of thinking by employers like Angie has helped reach the lowest level of time-loss injury ever in Nova Scotia. When injuries do occur, employers need to know what to do to help workers recover while staying connected to work — which is so valuable for a small team like Angie’s who play an important role caring for children. From submitting a claim to
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Growing a business shouldn’t mean growing alone Inside EO Accelerator PUBLISHED ON BEHALF OF:
What is EO Accelerator? EO Accelerator is designed for growth-minded entrepreneurs who want to scale faster, build stronger systems, and connect with a trusted peer community.
M “My experience with WCB over the years has been wonderful. My questions are answered, I can ask for advice, and most importantly my employees are taken care of if they get injured. Although services may not be frequently required, WCB has been there in a timely and effective manner to support both the employer and employee.” — Angie Daniels-Drummond, Dartmouth Day Care Centre identifying accommodations or modified duties, Angie says supporting her employees to return to work following a workplace injury is a collaborative effort between herself, the employee, and WCB. Recently, Angie experienced what it’s like on the other side of the claim following her own workplace injury. During her recovery, she says she felt supported while her case was managed quickly, and she received physiotherapy that helped her recover without needing time away from work. “I felt well cared for throughout the process and the weekly check-ins with WCB were super appreciated,” she says. Because injuries can be infrequent on smaller teams, it’s easy for an employer to be caught off guard SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026
— resulting in delays in reporting and slowing down a person’s recovery. That’s why understanding the basics and being prepared is so vital. “It’s really about knowing who will stay connected with the worker, understanding reporting requirements, identifying modified duties that can be offered, and keeping a record of conversations along the way,” says Matt. For small businesses across Nova Scotia, maintaining a safe workplace and supporting recovery comes down to this: build strong safety habits, know what to do before an injury happens, and have a practical plan to support people when an injury occurs. Because we all want the same thing: to keep Nova Scotians working. ■
ost entrepreneurs start a business because they’re great at something. Then the business grows, and growth has a way of asking questions your experience has not answered yet. The questions become more complicated. How do you lead a team effectively? How do you manage cash flow during growth? How do you stop being the person doing everything? And perhaps most importantly — who do you ask when everyone around you expects you to already know the answer? That’s where EO Accelerator comes in. EO Accelerator is a learning and accountability program created for entrepreneurs who are serious about scaling their businesses and becoming stronger leaders. The program combines structured learning, peer accountability groups, and practical business tools designed specifically for growth-stage entrepreneurs. This is not a course you sit through. Participants work through real challenges together, share experiences openly, and learn directly from entrepreneurs who have already navigated similar growth stages. For Zoomers Physiotherapy founder Laura Lundquist, the impact was transformational. “The Accelerator Program helped me understand how to effectively structure, manage and grow my business,” she says. Since joining the program, her business has nearly quadrupled in size. She
The program helps entrepreneurs focus on four key areas: → → → →
Strategy Cash People Execution
Laura Lundquist, Zoomers Physiotherapy
has transitioned from an owner-operator role, with significant day-to-day involvement, to a larger oversight and strategic role. Like many entrepreneurs in the program, Lundquist says the biggest return went well beyond operations. “Entrepreneurship can be fun and exhilarating, but it can also be lonely,” she explains. “My biggest ROI from the program is the supportive network of entrepreneur friends and colleagues that I have built.” EO Accelerator gives entrepreneurs access to: • • • • •
Monthly accountability groups Structured learning days Proven growth frameworks Experienced entrepreneur mentors A trusted peer network
The program is designed to help founders build businesses that are not only bigger—but healthier and more sustainable. For many participants, the BUSINESS VOICE
experience also becomes a stepping stone into EO itself. As businesses grow, so does the need for better leadership, stronger support systems, and more meaningful conversations. That’s why EO Accelerator focuses just as much on the entrepreneur as it does the business. Because scaling a company without growing as a leader rarely works for long. EO Accelerator Atlantic Canada is accepting applications from growthfocused entrepreneurs. Learn more at: EOAtlantic.com
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William (Bill) Hay
33rd Class of Laureates - October 14th Induction Gala of the region’s most recognized innovations, including free 30‑minute delivery. Those who worked with him knew his word was his bond, guided by a moral compass that never allowed him to take unfair advantage in business. Bill Hay was a visionary Nova Scotian entrepreneur, principled business leader, and generous philanthropist whose influence continues to shape Atlantic Canada’s food service, tourism, and community development landscapes. Bill built a career defined not only by commercial success, but by integrity, fairness, mentorship, and a deep belief in building people alongside businesses. Bill co‑owned successful KFC franchises across Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, acquired a 10‑unit Greco Pizza chain and transformed it into the largest pizza delivery brand in Atlantic Canada. He introduced some
Bill developed Mastodon Ridge in Stewiacke, not simply as a commercial venture, but as a celebration of Nova Scotia’s history, hospitality, and natural significance. His leadership in tourism extended through board and chair roles with the Tourism Industry Association of Nova Scotia, Central Nova Tourism Association, and Bay of Fundy Tourism Partnership, and was recognized with the 2023 Alastair & Frances Campbell Tourism Lifetime Achievement Award. Bill’s philanthropy was both deliberate and deeply human. Through enduring support of the NSCC Foundation, funding bursaries and student‑support initiatives that preserved dignity and created pathways to employment. His belief was simple and sincere: investing in people strengthens communities.
Those who knew Bill remember not only the scale of his achievements, but the way he led, quietly, humbly, and with genuine care. Bill’s legacy lives on through the businesses he built, the communities he strengthened, and the countless lives changed by his generosity, guidance, and integrity. He remains a model of ethical entrepreneurship and an enduring role model for future generations of Nova Scotian business leaders. Bill passed away surrounded by family at home on August 11, 2025
Business Hall of Fame On October 14th the Halifax Convention Centre will host JA Nova Scotia’s fundraising gala, which will welcome the incoming class of Laureates, as well as our Legacy In The Making Recipients, all being honoured for their achievements.
JA Nova Scotia works alongside educators to deliver hands‑on learning in financial health, work readiness, and entrepreneurship to students in Grades 3 through 12 at no cost. Our programs help youth build practical skills for real life: managing money, exploring careers, and developing an entrepreneurial mindset. 30
This year, provincial funding is no longer available to JA Nova Scotia, creating a new challenge to keeping our programs free for youth and educators. We are now asking our community to step in so young people don’t lose access to life‑changing learning experiences. We need our community’s financial help now and are ready to talk to individuals
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026
2nd Class of Recipients - October 14th Induction Gala Legacy In The Making Launched in 2025, the Legacy in the Making Award recognises entrepreneurs with leadership, determination and perseverance, who have been operating their business for less than 15 years. These individuals are shaping our province, showcasing their entrepreneurial spirit, highlighting their community focus (volunteerism, philanthropy, service above self), and contributing to the local economy. Recipients are changing the provincial landscape and/or have emerged as leaders in their sector. These Innovators are an inspiration, full of energy, passionate about the work they are doing, show courage, and promote change in search of the greater good.
Tables now available. Learn more. Visit nsbusinesshalloffame.ca.
JA Nova Scotia That impact is powered by people. Volunteers bring their lived experience into classrooms to lead activities and conversations that make learning stick, no teaching background required, just enthusiasm and a willingness to share.
Legacy In The Making
and businesses about supporting program delivery, a school or even a class. This is your opportunity to support JA’s student resources, program coordination, and in-class program material for students. Nova Scotians have a strong tradition of giving, and now is the time to invest in students’ futures. Together, we can help ensure more students are prepared for the future. Learn more. Get involved. Make an impact. Visit www.janovascotia.ca.
Jaime Landry Jaime Landry is the Founder and Owner of Black Harbour Distillers, a nationally recognized, 100 percent female‑owned craft distillery based in Hubbards, Nova Scotia. She launched the company at age eighteen while studying Commerce at Dalhousie University, transforming a class project into a thriving business known for creativity, quality, and community impact. Jaime is celebrated for her innovative product development, ethical production values, and commitment to local employment. A passionate advocate for entrepreneurship, philanthropy,
and community building, she actively supports local charities, mentors emerging entrepreneurs, and champions inclusive, community‑focused business growth.
companies and leading technology brands worldwide. A graduate of Saint Mary’s University, he is widely published in outlets such as Forbes and Business Insider and regularly speaks on innovation, digital strategy, and AI. Deeply committed to giving back, Ross serves on several nonprofit boards, mentors emerging entrepreneurs, and champions opportunities for youth and underrepresented communities across Nova Scotia.
Business Hall of Fame Dr. Mina Mekhail Dr. Mina Mekhail is the Founder and CEO of Freshr Sustainable Technologies Inc., a Dartmouth‑based company developing advanced, sustainable packaging to reduce global food waste. A bioengineer with a PhD from McGill University, he brings nearly 20 years of experience in biomaterials innovation, multiple patents, peer‑reviewed publications, and raised more than $10 million in dilutive and non-dilutive funding. Inspired by early exposure to food insecurity in the Middle East, Dr. Mekhail combines scientific rigor with entrepreneurial agility. He is an active mentor, speaker, and advocate for food security, sustainability, and science‑driven entrepreneurship in Nova Scotia and beyond.
On October 14th the Halifax Convention Centre will host JA Nova Scotia’s fundraising gala, which will welcome the incoming class of Laureates, as well as our Legacy In The Making Recipients, all being honoured for their achievements. Hosted by JA Achiever Aneesh Mahatekar and JA Alumni Julia Sampson, the Gala focusses on the commitment and impact felt locally and beyond by Nova Scotia leaders and change makers. Tables now available. Learn more. Visit nsbusinesshalloffame.ca.
JA Nova Scotia Since 1969 JA Nova Scotia has educated and empowered students to make thoughtful financial health, work readiness and entrepreneurial decisions, helping prepare them for a positive and successful future. Our programs build on and enhance the current provincial curriculum for students in grades 3 to 12 and are offered at no cost.
Ross Simmonds Ross Simmonds is a Halifax‑based entrepreneur, global marketing strategist, and dedicated community leader. Raised in Preston, Nova Scotia, Ross is the founder of Foundation Marketing, a content marketing and growth agency serving Fortune 500
BUSINESS VOICE
Through in-class, after-school and online courses we prompt youth to be proactive, get comfortable with things that are unfamiliar and develop autonomy, self-belief and confidence. Learn more at janovascotia.ca.
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YOU RUN YOUR BUSINESS. WE REPRESENT IT. See what we've done for your business this year.
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026