In partnership with the Toronto Region Board of Trade, Lenovo announced that the Evolve Small program would be extended to women and Black, Indigenous and People of Colour-owned small businesses in Ontario.
Yesterday, the two entities awarded grants to 10 small business owners who are women-owned and BIPOC in the province. Each recipient was awarded a C$10,000 grant that will allow them to innovate their businesses and remain accessible to their communities during the pandemic. To help speed up digital adoption, Lenovo will also offer educational programming for TRBOT members. Statistics Canada has revealed that small businesses are more likely than larger companies to face financial challenges over the next 12 months.
Recipients of grants:
- Funding Essentials is an Ottawa-based professional service company that assists businesses and organizations in navigating income-generating opportunities within their industry. They help them with all the documentation required to submit funding applications, proposals, grants and requests.
- Flux & Fire – Toronto-based company that provides infrared therapy to conscious consumers and products to optimize mind, body and spirit.
- Atlas Studio: A Cambridge-based company offering interactive online and in-person yoga classes, therapy, workshops and yoga, as well as yoga, meditation and therapy services.
- Elleverity: Wealth management company based in Milton that aims to empower women to be financially independent.
- Whole WoMan Network is a Richmond Hill-based social enterprise that provides financial literacy training, leadership and business consulting services for new immigrants. The focus is on African women and youth.
- Chorus Music Academy is a Yamaha Authorized Music Education Center in Vaughan. It offers Yamaha’s Music Education System to young beginners and popular music programs from Yamaha-certified instructors.
- Krippit Corporation: Toronto-based 3D fashion tech firm that creates innovative 3D printed high heels protectors.
- Living Farmacy is a subscription-based wellness business founded in Toronto by a mother on a mission.
- Empire Health Services: Em – KEE-RO is a Japanese hybrid noun that signifies one’s return to optimal health. It also represents a crossroad between medical and health services. It provides medical and allied services to Toronto residents and working professionals.
- Facedrive: Toronto-based company that offers green transportation solutions focusing on carbon emission reduction. Riders can choose between an electric, hybrid or gas vehicle.
“As the pandemic continues its impact on us all, it is clear that small businesses, especially minority-owned small businesses, have been hardest hit and need support to survive,” said Colin McIsaac, vice president and general manager of Lenovo Canada. “We hope funding through the grant program with the Toronto Region Board of Trade will help some of those most affected businesses. We look forward to seeing how these funds can be used to innovate and build for the future.
TRBOT reported that it received 203 applications from small businesses during the two-month window for application. All applicants met eligibility requirements. TRBOT reviewed all applications and selected grant recipients based on their ability and willingness to show their equity, diversity and inclusion initiatives. They also had to complete one or more TRBOT Recovery Activation Program streams. This online support and education program was designed to help businesses adapt to a digital world. RAP is a comprehensive toolkit that supports Toronto’s small businesses’ long-term success and sustainability. It focuses on attracting customers, improving supply chain efficiencies, managing virtual workforces, streamlining costs, and focusing on customer acquisition.
Leigh Smout (president of the World Trade Centre Toronto) said submissions showed a remarkable array of passionate, engaged women and entrepreneurs from BIPOC. Lenovo made each grant possible to help recipients grow their businesses and significantly contribute to the local economy and communities. We are proud of our association with Lenovo and these incredible business leaders.
