20 Promising Entrepreneurs Selected for 2025 Starter Company Plus Cohort
Peterborough, ON – April 23, 2025 – The Business Advisory Centre is thrilled to announce the 20 dynamic businesses selected for the highly competitive 2025 Starter Company Plus program. With over 70 applications received, this year’s cohort reflects an inspiring cross-section of creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.
“This is truly a life-changing program,” says Rosalea Terry, Manager of the Business Advisory Centre. “The quality of applications this year was exceptional, and our selected entrepreneurs represent some of the most committed and determined founders we’ve seen. We are proud to support them on their entrepreneurial journey.”
From wellness and fitness ventures to creative studios and even a travelling museum, these businesses are ready to accelerate their growth with the mentorship, training, and funding provided by Starter Company Plus. This provincial government-funded program offers entrepreneurs access to expert guidance, networking opportunities, and, upon successful program completion, up to $5,000 in grant funding to take their businesses to the next level.
“We’re thrilled to welcome this talented group of entrepreneurs into the 2025 Starter Company Plus program,” said Devon Girard, Executive Director of Community Futures Peterborough. “Their creativity, drive, and commitment to growth embody the spirit of entrepreneurship we aim to support. We’re excited to be part of their journey and look forward to their impact on our city and county.”
The 2025 Starter Company Plus Cohort includes:
City of Peterborough Participants:
- Groovy Little Smoothie Co. — Kara Ainsworth
- Stoney Island Studio Live Event Painting and Creative Services — Julie Anastasia McMillan
- The Willow Studio — Angela Demeester
- Architecture of Wellness — Jackie Orsetto
- Wild Woman Ayurveda — Maggie O’Rourke
- Doody Call — Millie Kingston
- Home and Well Inc. (Home & Well) — Kelly Clark
- Common Thread Films — Kait Howell
- Miller Exterior Painting — Dennal Leya Miller
- Burkitt Solutions Co — Brianna Burkitt
- Heeling Souls K9 Training — Alexis Mills
- Joint Venture Inc. o/a Lost Cannabis Company — Brent Morrison
- Layin’ Divots — Krista Charette
County of Peterborough Participants:
- Transitions (Tentative Name) — Kelly Gower and Roselyn Rodriquez
- The Forest Hill Lodge — Jacqueline Lyons
- Belmont Farmstead — Amanda O’Rourke
- Urban Roots 47 Salon and Spa — Karen Kearney
- Lark and Lemon — Kristen Offen
- Joint Venture Inc. o/a Lost Cannabis Company — Brent Morrison
- National Touring Museum — Timothy Jeffries
- Millbrook Fit — David Lundrigan
Over the coming months, participants will refine their business strategies, enhance their marketing, and gain vital skills for sustainable growth. The Starter Company Plus Program is a province-wide initiative funded by the Government of Ontario and provides successful graduates of the program access to a total of $89,000 in grant dollars to start and grow their business.
“Congratulations to the entrepreneurs of the 2025 Starter Company Plus Program! Small businesses are essential to our economy, playing a crucial role in fostering innovation and generating jobs throughout Peterborough-Kawartha,” said Dave Smith, Member of Provincial Parliament for Peterborough-Kawartha. “Every small business is backed by an entrepreneur who embodies vision, passion, and purpose, showcasing the best of the Ontario Spirit,” MPP Dave Smith added.
The program’s participants now join a growing network of alumni who continue to drive economic growth and innovation in Peterborough City and County.
For more information about the Starter Company Plus Program or the Business Advisory Centre at Community Futures Peterborough, please visit www.cfpeterborough.ca