Business Voice (July/August 2026)

ADVERTISE IN

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 Group

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

Chamber Staff

Don Bureaux, President and CEO

Becky Davison, Senior Vice President, Engagement & Strategy

Peter MacAskill, Vice President of Policy, External Affairs and Business Development

Emma Menchefski, Director of Communications

Emily Bednarz, Communications Specialist

Volume 35 • Issue 5

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: Kelly Clark Fotography

CHAMBER EVENTS

Tuesday, July 28

LUNCHEON

Patio Perspectives: Closing Gaps with the Queer Atlantic Business Hub

11:30AM - 1:30PM The Prince George Hotel

SAVE THE DATE:

Small Business Week: October 19 - 23

Small Business Big Growth: October 16

Halifax Chamber Annual Fall Dinner: November 3

Wednesday, July 15

WORKSHOP

Awards Submissions 101

10:30AM - 11:30AM FREE for Members! 259 Commodore Dr Dartmouth NS B3B 0M1

Tuesday, July 28

4-WEEK WORKSHOP

AI Enabled Sales Accelerator - Cohort 1

2:00PM - 4:00PM and 9:00AM - 11:00AM Online via Zoom

Wednesday, Aug 5

WORKSHOP

Chamber 101 with Mandi 12:00PM - 1:00PM FREE for Members! 32 Akerley Blvd, Dartmouth NS

THANK YOU TO OUR MAY/JUNE EVENT SPONSORS:

For a full list of Chamber events, visit: halifaxchamber.com/events

Wednesday, July 22

POWER LUNCH

Courageous Communications™

12:00PM - 1:30PM FREE for Members!

Halifax Chamber of Commerce Building

Starting July 29

4-WEEK WORKSHOP AI Enabled HR Accelerator - Cohort 1

4:15-6:15 PM Online via Zoom

Wednesday, Aug 12

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS The North Grove 4:00PM - 6:00PM FREE for Members! 6 Primrose Street, Unit 115

NEW & NOTED

We welcome our new Chamber members

Omolade Cathy Akinkunmi

Are you a new Chamber member?

Get listed in New & Noted! To get started, contact Mandi Bowser at mandi@halifaxchamber.com or call (902) 468-7111.

AEROTEC ENGINES

Jason Crowell Beaver Bank, NS (902) 873-3100

jason@aerotecengines.ca www.aerotecengines.ca Industrial & ManufacturingAEROSPACE

AFRICAN NOVA SCOTIAN MUSIC ASSOCIATION

Julien Matwawana Dartmouth, NS (902) 404-3036

julien@ansma.ca theansma.com Not-for-Profit GroupsASSOCIATIONS/AGENCIES

ATLANTIC SLEEP AND WELLNESS CLINIC

Lionel Marshall Halifax, NS (437) 215-3046 lionelmarshall395@gmail.com sleepandwellness.ca Health Care - MEDICAL SUPPLIES

BEAUTIFUL CELEBRATIONS AND DESIGNS

Beautiful Celebrations and Design is a Halifax-based event design and production company specializing in weddings and upscale events. We create polished, visually striking experiences through thoughtful design, seamless coordination, and attention to detail—bringing each client’s vision to life with elegance and precision.

Bedford, NS (902) 719-8584

Contact@besutifullinenrentals.ca beautifullinenrentals.ca

Events - EVENT DECOR /PARTY SUPPLIES

BEST KIND EDIBLES INC.

Georgia Pothier

Dartmouth, NS (902) 440-1456

georgia@bestkindedibles.ca bestkindedibles.ca

Industrial & ManufacturingMANUFACTURE/PROCESS

BLUEBIRD SELF STORAGE

Bluebird Self Storage offers secure, high-quality facilities, transparent pricing, and exceptional customer service throughout HRM. From climatecontrolled units to flexible rentals and no rent increases for 365 days, Bluebird delivers a hassle-free storage experience for homeowners, students, and businesses.

Jeff Bohan

Dartmouth, NS (902) 480-2111

wright@bluebirdstorage.ca bluebirdstorage.ca

Transportation - MOVING/STORAGE

BULLFROG SPAS HALIFAX

Sean Kelly

Dartmouth, NS (902) 446-0084

dan@bullfrogspas.com bullfrogspashalifax.ca

Shopping & Specialty RetailRETAIL (GENERAL)

CANADIAN SOLUTIONS FOR BUSINESS

Terry Clarke

Toronto, ON (800) 721-7005

tclarke@canadianbus.com canadianbus.com

Advertising, PR & MediaCORPORATE APPAREL

CARIBOU SOFTWARE

Caribou Software provides business management solutions for the forestry industry, supporting logging contractors, sawmills, and biomass producers. Our software streamlines operations, improves job costing accuracy, and strengthens financial performance— delivering practical, reliable tools that enable better decisions, efficiency, and long-term business success.

Durwin Hancock

Truro, NS (902) 305-0899

durwin@caribousoftware.com caribousoftware.com

Business & Prof. Services - ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY AND RESOURCES

CARKEYPLUS

We are a Halifax-based locksmith specializing in car services, including key duplication, replacement, programming, and emergency unlocks. Fast, reliable, and affordable service you can trust.

Zeev Markovits

Lower Sackville, NS (902) 700-7885

carkeyplushalifax@gmail.com carkeyhalifax.com

Transportation - AUTO CLUB

NEWSMAKERS

WILLIS COLLEGE

Henry Devlin

Dartmouth, NS (902) 564-2222

info@cbbccareercollege.ca cbbccareercollege.ca

Education & Prof. DevelopmentEDUCATION/SCHOOLS

CHAPTER 3 LTD.

Chapter 3 is a growth consultancy that helps startups and scaling businesses navigate commercialization, marketing, sales, and strategic growth challenges. We combine strategic insight with hands-on execution to drive sustainable growth, optimize operations, and support companies across tech, innovation, and emerging industries through practical, relationship-driven partnerships.

Mary Jane Leslie Halifax, NS (902) 499-2797

mj@chapter3.ca chapter3.ca

Business & Prof. ServicesCONSULTING (GENERAL)

CHAULK’S FAMILY PHARMACY

Crystal Chaulk Halifax, NS (902) 431-3100 pharmasave852@gmail.com pharmasave.com/halifax-lacewood/ Health Care – PHARMACY

CHISHOLM SERVICES FOR CHILDREN

Wade Johnston Halifax, NS (902) 422-3414

wjohnston@chisholm4children.ca www.chisholm4children.ca

Not-For-Profit GroupsCHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS

COSSETTE COMMUNICATION INC.

Cossette is a Canadian marketing communications company that provides integrated communications services. Together we make things that matter, things that go beyond. #onecossette

Maude Drouin-Halou Halifax, NS (902) 421-1500

cossette.com

Advertising, PR & MediaADVERTISING

DAZ DESIGN

DAZ Design is a professional organizing and interior decorating company based in Halifax, Nova Scotia, helping busy families, professionals, downsizers, homeowners, and realtors create functional, beautiful, and calm living spaces. We specialize in home organization, decluttering, moving and unpacking support, interior decorating, space planning, and occupied home staging.

Natalia Zaharov

Halifax, NS (902) 989-3776

Contact@dazdesign.ca dazdesign.ca Home & GardenINTERIOR DECORATORS

DYGARN TECHNICAL SOLUTIONS

DyGarn Technical Solutions is a technical and data consultancy for small and medium-sized businesses, helping owners get more value out of the software, systems, and data they already rely on—including platforms and databases that are often ten to 30 years old. We combine 27+ years of technical sales and operations experience to eliminate inefficiencies and deliver practical, modern solutions.

Greg Drysdale

Halifax, NS (782) 774-9733

greg@dygarn.com dygarn.com

Computers, IT & TechnologyTECHNOLOGY MANAGEMENT

E45 APPRAISAL SERVICES

E45 combines deep local market expertise with active appraisal operations in Texas and Florida. Led by Adam Payn, MAI, AACI, P.App, MBA, the firm delivers clear and defensible valuation opinions for financing, estate, and litigation matters, with a focus on responsiveness, analytical rigour, and practical market insight.

Adam Payn

Halifax, NS (902) 593-3823

adam@e45appraisals.com

e45appraisals.com

Real Estate/Construction –APPRAISALS EARLYGRAIN

Rajashaker Reddy Mortala Lower Sackville, NS (437) 242-1723

info@earlygrain.ca earlygrain.ca

Restaurants, Food & BeverageFOOD MANUFACTURER

EASTGUARD TRAINING INC.

EastGuard Training Inc. is a professional safety and self-protection training company dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations with practical, real-world skills. Specializing in workplace violence prevention, personal safety, and emergency preparedness, EastGuard delivers hands-on training that builds confidence, awareness, and resilience—helping clients create safer environments for their teams and communities.

Stephen Hache

Bedford, NS (902) 483-7618

steve@eastguardtraining.com eastguardtraining.com

Safety & Security - SECURITY CONSULTING

FINTREE CONSULTING

Fintree Consulting is a Canada-based financial services firm specializing in bookkeeping, taxation, GST/HST filing, and business registration for individuals, entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses. The firm delivers reliable, technology-driven financial solutions designed to support operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and sustainable business growth.

Saritha Sujithkumar Bedford, NS (782) 641-4082 sarithasujith75@gmail.com fintree.ca Finance & InsuranceBOOKKEEPING

FOSS NATIONAL LEASING

Foss National Leasing is a leading Canadian fleet management and vehicle leasing company helping organizations optimize their fleet operations. Through vehicle leasing, fleet management, telematics, maintenance programs, and lifecycle support, Foss delivers customized solutions that reduce costs, improve efficiency, and support business growth across Canada.

André LeBlanc

Markham, ON 1-800-461-3677

hello@fossnational.com fossnational.com

Business & Prof. Services - SALES

FRIENDS TRANSPORT LTD

At Friends Transport Limited, we’re dedicated to simplifying logistics. Established in 2021, we offer a wide range of services—from courier and e-commerce fulfillment to freight and moving and packing. Our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction drives us to provide tailored solutions, ensuring your logistics needs are in reliable hands.

Jaspreet Jassar

Dartmouth, NS (902) 292-6665

friends@transport69.com friendstransportlimited.com

Transportation - LOGISTICS

FURNITURE SPOT INC.

Furniture Spot & Mattress Outlet is Halifax’s locally owned mattress and furniture store, serving Nova Scotia since 2016. We offer Canadian-made mattresses, sofas, sectionals, and bed frames at honest everyday prices, backed by our 365-Day Best Price Guarantee. In-stock inventory with same-day delivery available.

Latif Shahini

Halifax, NS (902) 406-3939

support@furniturespot.ca furniturespot.ca

Home & Garden - FURNITURE

GLOBAL PROFICIO INC.

Eva Osorio Nieto Halifax, NS globalproficio.com

Business & Prof. Services - LAW

GRANDMAISON PUBLIC RELATIONS

Grandmaison Public Relations is a strategic communications consultancy helping businesses and leaders build influence, protect reputations, and communicate with confidence.

Specializing in media relations, crisis management, and stakeholder engagement, we combine strategic insight with compelling storytelling to deliver high-impact communications with precision and professionalism. Lisa Grandmaison Porters Lake, NS (902) 670-0515

lisa@grandmaisonpr.com grandmaisonpr.com

Advertising, PR & MediaPUBLIC RELATIONS/AFFAIRS

GREENWAY COURIER

Green Way Courier is your local, ecofriendly, and secure delivery partner based in Halifax Regional Municipality. We offer reliable delivery services seven days a week, including routine, sameday express, bulk, secure document, and monitored prescription deliveries. A proudly Canadian company, we operate a carbon-neutral fleet and prioritize exceptional customer support with

real-time updates.

Manmeet Singh

Dartmouth, NS (902) 707-0501

Manmeet@greenwaycourier.ca greenwaycourier.ca

Transportation - LOGISTICS

HENDAIR HVAC LTD.

Daniel Henderson Halifax, NS hendairhvac@gmail.com

Energy & EnvironmentENERGY EFFICIENCY

HGRACE CONSULTING

HGrace Consulting, led by Principal Consultant Ayodeji Owowa, helps governments, nonprofits, and businesses turn complex data into clear, confident decisions. Specializing in business intelligence, data engineering, and executive dashboards, we build reporting systems that enable leaders to measure performance and drive results.

Ayodeji Owowa Halifax, NS (902) 292-7575

info@hgraceconsulting.com hgraceconsulting.com

Computers, IT & TechnologyDATA/DOCUMENT MGMT

HOME INSTEAD

At Home Instead, we provide personalized home care services across Halifax Regional Municipality and Lunenburg County, helping older adults maintain independence, comfort, and quality of life. Our compassionate caregivers offer support with personal care, dementia care, companionship, meal preparation, housekeeping, transportation, and end-oflife support tailored to individual needs.

Alice McCarron Halifax, NS (902) 429-2273

alicemccarron@homeinstead.com homeinstead.ca/home-care/can/ns/ halifax/3008/ Health Care - HOME CARE

HOTTER BY THE MINUTE MEDIA

Hotter by the Minute Media is a podcast exploring honest, real-life experiences of women in menopause—sharing what no one says out loud about aging as a woman.

Mary Clark

Halifax, NS (902) 802-8939

hotterbytheminute2026@gmail.com Communications - PODCASTING

INTELLIGENT DIGITAL AGENTS - IDA

IDA—Intelligent Digital Agents— builds fully managed AI digital agents that help businesses reduce labour costs, boost productivity, automate complex workflows, improve customer experience, and make smarter, faster decisions. Developing solutions for healthcare, automotive, and contact centre operations, IDA makes advanced AI accessible, affordable, and practical for real organizations—without the complexity or high barrier to entry.

Dan Merzetti

Halifax, NS (902) 449-2331

dmerzetti@ida-ai.ca

ida-ai.ca

Business & Prof. ServicesBUSINESS CONSULTING

JAZ RENOVATIONS LTD / PAINT GUYS

JAZ Renovations Ltd delivers premium painting, drywall, and full-scale renovation services across residential and commercial projects. We combine craftsmanship, efficiency, and clear communication to exceed expectations—building lasting value and trust through quality, innovation, reliability, and client-focused solutions. Zeeshan Ahmed Qureshi Dartmouth, NS (902) 222-4422

Paintguys2024@gmail.com

paintguyz.ca

Real Estate/ConstructionRENOVATIONS

JEHAD KHOURY HOLDINGS

Michel Khoury

Halifax, NS

michel@hfxsports.com

Business & Prof. ServicesENGINEERING

KAOS CROSSFIT

Shawn Quigley

Halifax, NS (902) 404-5647

Info@kaoscrossfit.ca

kaoscrossfit.ca

Health Care - HEALTH CLUB

KIDS & COMPANY

Jessica Stapleton

Toronto, ON (416) 574-7155

jstapleton@kidsandcompany.com

kidsandcompany.com

Education & Prof. DevelopmentCOACHING

KINGSPIER CURATED COLLECTIONS

KingsPIER vintage offers preloved luxury apparel, footwear, and accessories for discerning shoppers. We carefully curate and restore quality garments, breathing new life into each piece. We also cater to film and television productions. Find us at 1549 Barrington Street. Shop smart. Shop sustainable.

Laura MacNutt

Halifax, NS (902) 791-1963

Laura@pier101.ca kingspiershop.com

Shopping & Specialty RetailRETAIL (GENERAL)

LIVING THROUGH IT WORKPLACE INVESTIGATIONS AND MEDIATION

SERVICES

Jennifer Davidson Bedford, NS (902) 799-0966

livingthroughit@outlook.com

livingthrough-it.ca

Advertising, PR & MediaADVERTISING

MAIN SQUEEZE SOCK CO

Main Squeeze is a Canadian-owned, nurse-designed compression sock brand founded by Halifax-based registered nurse Nicole Horechuk. Inspired by the hardworking people around her, Nicole designs stylish, functional compression socks that provide real support on your longest days—minimalist, trendy, and made to move with you.

Nicole Horechuk

Halifax, NS (902) 317-1851

nicole.horechuk@hotmail.com mainsqueezesockco.com

Health Care - HEALTH AND WELLNESS

MBS RADIO HALIFAX -

(FX101.9 / 89.9 THE WAVE)

FX101.9 and 89.9 The Wave are Halifax’s leading radio stations, operating under Maritime Broadcasting System— Atlantic Canada’s largest broadcasting network, with 24 radio stations serving communities across Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island.

Corey Mosher

Halifax, NS (902) 425-1225

Advertising, PR & MediaADVERTISING

MGT ELECTRICS AND COMMUNICATIONS LTD

MGT Electrics and Communications specializes in the construction of high-quality optical and copper data networks, both within buildings and across external infrastructure, along with the complete electrical power supply required to operate them. Combining technical expertise with premium materials, MGT delivers integrated, endto-end solutions for network operators, developers, utility providers, and public organizations.

Richard Verhuelsdonk

Halifax, NS (902) 456-1334

richard.verhuelsdonk@ mgt-electrics.ca mgt-electrics.ca

CommunicationsCOMMUNICATIONS (GENERAL)

MIGHTYIQ INC.

Govinda Rajan Talluri Bedford, NS (902) 989-3030

govind@mightyiq.ca mightyiq.ca

Computers, IT & TechnologyIT PRODUCTS/SERVICES

MORGENSTERN CREATIVE

Morgenstern Creative is a full-service, award-winning creative boutique specializing in print, broadcast, product design, and web. With over 25 years of experience delivering everything from television shows to Super Bowl commercials, we bring a professional, personalized touch to every project.Marc Samuel Morgenstern Porters Lake, NS (902) 220-8255

contact@morgensterncreative.com morgensterncreative.com

Advertising, PR & MediaADVERTISING

NAVA DEVELOP INC.

Permjot Valia Darmouth, NS (902) 414-8211

pvalia@me.com navadevelop.com

Business & Prof. ServicesBUSINESS ADVISORS

O’KEEFE & SULLIVAN LAWYERS

Essber Essber Halifax, NS (902) 913-4717

eessber@okeefesullivan.com okeefesullivan.com

Business & Prof. Services - LAW

OLIVE TREE HEALING HYPNOSIS

Mai Alnabhan Bedford, NS (782) 200-0010 mai@olivetreehealinghypnosis.com olivetreehealinghypnosis.com

Health Care - HEALTH AND WELLNESS

OLSEN’S MECHANICAL LIMITED

Kim Brown Hammonds Plains, NS olsensmechanical.invoices.com

Industrial & ManufacturingREPAIR SERVICES

PERFECT ODYSSEY COACHING & WELLNESS

Perfect Odyssey Coaching & Wellness believes business growth starts with the person behind it. We work with founders and entrepreneurs to strengthen the internal capacity required to handle pressure, uncertainty, and high-stakes decisions—through leadership development, nervous system regulation, and performance coaching—helping them lead, execute, and grow with confidence.

Amalia Henry Halifax, NS (902) 441-8640

amaliaempowers@gmail.com perfectodyssey.com

Health Care - HEALTH AND WELLNESS

RHAD ARCHITECTS

RHAD Architects is an award-winning, multidisciplinary architectural studio in Dartmouth, NS. Founded in 2010, RHAD is a women-owned, women-led studio focused on community-minded, sustainable, and modern architecture. Its portfolio includes residential, commercial, and institutional projects for clients including Spirit Spa, Skinfix, NSLC, HRM, and Dalhousie University.

Rayleen Hill

Dartmouth, NS (902) 444-8085

info@rhad.ca rhad.ca

Business & Prof. ServicesARCHITECTURE

ROAD TO ECONOMIC PROSPERITY SECRETARIAT

Tamar Pryor Brown

Halifax, NS (902) 221-0170

tbrown@repsecretariat.com

Not-for-Profit GroupsASSOCIATIONS/AGENCIES

ROSEWOOD INC.

Deanna Simone Newmarket, ON (289) 338-7297

deanna@rosewoodfundraising.com rosewoodfundraising.com

Business & Prof. ServicesBUSINESS CONSULTING

SCIENTEXT LTD.

Scientext® offers evidence-based specifications and technical support to professional design studios across Canada. With an emphasis on great service and a convenient experience, Scientext surpasses traditional specification outputs—and goes further by educating clients, sharing knowledge, and pointing out improvement opportunities as part of the service

David Organ

Sarnia, ON (519) 280-2486

dorgan@scientext.ca scientext.ca/

Business & Prof. ServicesCONSULTING (GENERAL)

SCOTIA FESTIVAL OF MUSIC

Presented since 1980, Scotia Festival of Music is an annual two-week festival of classical chamber music, equally dedicated to performance and education. We also own and manage the Music Room on Lady Hammond Road—a 105seat concert hall available as a flexible rental space for performances, meetings, and other events.

Simon Docking

Halifax, NS (902) 429-9467

simon@scotiafestival.com scotiafestival.com

Arts, Culture & EntertainmentMUSIC

NEWSMAKERS

SEDUM SUSTAINABLE DESIGN SOLUTIONS

Sedum Sustainable Design Solutions is a sustainable design and construction company building things that last. We work to make eco-friendly living more equitable and accessible for Nova Scotians by reducing financial and logistical barriers, bringing attention and precision to projects of any size.

Patrick MacKay

Halifax, NS (902) 218-6555

patrick@sedumsolutions.ca sedumsolutions.ca Energy & EnvironmentSUSTAINABILITY

SERRIF STUDIO BRANDING AND CREATIVE

Samantha Serrer

Halifax, NS (902) 414-6577

sam@serrifstudio.com serrifstudio.com

Advertising, PR & MediaGRAPHIC DESIGN

SM MOCKTAILS SERVICES

Sharifah Nansukusa

Halifax, NS (902) 989-2217

nksharifah2009@gmail.com

Restaurants, Food & BeverageCATERING/FOOD/DRINK

SOVA GROUP GLOBAL LTD

Sova Group is laser-focused on empowering small to mid-sized businesses using Microsoft ERP and CRM. We offer tailored solutions that work with your business, backed by expert training and support.

Madison Pardy

Halifax, NS (705) 828-1120

mpardy@sovagroupglobal.com sovagroupglobal.com

Computers, IT & TechnologySOFTWARE CONSULTING

SPECIALIZED TREE SERVICE LTD

Specialized Tree Service is a Nova Scotia-based arborist company specializing in safe, efficient tree removal, pruning, storm preparation, and emergency tree services. We help homeowners protect their properties from hazardous trees and hurricane damage while maintaining healthy, well-managed landscapes with professional equipment and experienced crews.

Myles Clarke

Fall River, NS (902) 223-1942

myles@specializedtree.ca

Specializedtree.ca

Agriculture, Fishing & ForestryFORESTRY

SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT ATLANTIC

Popularly known as S|E|A and based in Halifax, Sports and Entertainment Atlantic is Atlantic Canada’s largest full-service sport and entertainment company. We believe the power of sports and events brings communities together, unites us, inspires us, and enriches our lives.

Jenny Hodder

Halifax, NS (709) 219-2807

jennyhodder@seatlantic.ca Events - EVENT PLANNING/ MANAGEMENT

SPRING TIDE AI

Spring Tide AI helps businesses and organizations use artificial intelligence safely and responsibly by delivering practical AI governance solutions. These include assessment, framework, policy, oversight, and team training. The goal is to help you manage the risks of AI so that you can maximize its benefits.

Christine Gillis

Halifax, NS (782) 234-9830

cgillis@springtideai.ca springtideai.ca

Business & Prof. ServicesCONSULTING (GENERAL)

SUNLIGHT DESIGN AND COMPANY

Sunlight Design and Company is a family-owned business creating meaningful gifts and decor inspired by Nova Scotia. Led by Saundria, her husband Mario, and daughter Jayda, they celebrate Nova Scotia through thoughtful giftware and handcrafted products, aiming to shine a light on the beauty around us.

Saundria Rolle

Dartmouth, NS (902) 441-3352

sunlightdesignandco@gmail.com

sunlightdesignandco.com

Arts, Culture & Entertainment - ART

TECHVERSYS IT SERVICES PRIVATE LIMITED

Techversys delivers secure healthcare IT solutions for hospitals, clinics, and medical practices. We specialize in EMR/EHR implementation, digital health product development, cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, HIPAA-, PIPEDA-, and PHIA-compliant systems, and managed IT support. Our solutions improve operational Xefficiency, protect patient data, and support reliable, technology-driven patient care across Canada.

Abdul Qadir Ali Mohammed Coldbrook, NS (902) 691-2948

ma.qadirali@techversysit.com techversysit.com

Computers, IT & Technology - IT PRODUCTS/SERVICES

TEHG (THE ELROY HEALTH GROUP)

TEHG bridges health gaps through health contracting and consulting services. We provide staffing solutions, digital health solutions, health education and training, research, policy analysis, and infection prevention and control. At TEHG, we believe in collaboration, innovation, integrity, and excellence. Chisom Crystal Morin

Halifax, NS (902) 717-9954

info@tehg.ca tehg.ca

Health Care - HEALTH CARE SERVICES, GENERAL

TEMPORARY EXPERTS SOCIAL ENTERPRISE LTD.

Jennifer Vey

West Porters Lake, NS (902) 489-3653

info@tempexp.com tempexp.ca Computers, IT & TechnologyE-BUSINESS

TERRADYNE WELLNESS CENTRE

Terradyne is a private residential facility where individuals can concentrate on their recovery journey. Terradyne’s holistic approach to rehabilitation addresses not only addiction, but the underlying causes, mental health concerns, and trauma associated with addiction. Our mission is to provide personalized, evidence-based treatment that is tailored to the individual.

Laurie Burns Beaverbank, NS (902) 334-4704 director@terradynewellness.ca terradynewellness.ca Health Care - HEALTH AND WELLNESS

THE ANINGA PROJECT

Jenny Benson Pratt Timberlea, NS (902) 452-3112

aningaproject@gmail.com aningaproject.ca

Not-For-Profit GroupsCHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS

THE CYR METHOD

When teams stop communicating clearly, deals stall, managers avoid hard conversations, and good people leave. Mishkin Cyr founded The Cyr Method to fix exactly that—delivering in-person negotiation, communication, and leadership training built around what your team is actually dealing with, not a generic curriculum. Serving teams across Atlantic Canada.

Mishkin Cyr Dartmouth, NS (902) 222-3961

mishkin@cyrmethod.com cyrmethod.com

Education & Prof. DevelopmentTRAINING PROGRAMS

TORONTO COMMUNITY BENEFITS NETWORK

Rosemarie Powell

North York, ON (647) 545-8226

info@communitybenefits.ca communitybenefits.ca Energy & Environment - ENERGY EFFICIENCY

UMIUS CREATIVE INC.

UMIUS Creative Inc. builds custom software for medium-scale organizations whose critical operations have outgrown their current systems. We help leaders cut through technology noise with honest guidance and human-centred solutions—fully owned by the client, with no subscriptions and no vendor lock-in.

Feroze Md Halifax, NS (902) 329-3133

feroze@umiuscreative.com umiuscreative.com

Computers, IT & Technology - IT PRODUCTS/SERVICES

UPROAR PRODUCTIONS INC.

Founded in 2020, Uproar Productions has grown into one of the most respected production companies in Atlantic Canada—eight professionals, over 50 years of combined experience, and a client list spanning some of the region’s most recognized organizations. We create video, photography, and animation, covering the full scope of production in-house, project after project.

Brittany Saab Halifax, NS (506) 688-1426

denis@uproarproductions.com uproarproductions.com

Arts, Culture & EntertainmentVIDEO/MULTIMEDIA

URGO MEDICAL

Urgo Medical Canada, the advanced wound care division of the French family-owned Urgo Group, is dedicated to healing people through evidence-based treatments and innovative services. As the Healing Company, we support patients and healthcare professionals across Canada while leading with science through continuous research and clinical evidence.

Jillian Furlong Mississauga, ON 1-844-850-8485

Jillian.Furlong@ca.urgo.com urgomedical.ca

Health Care - MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIES

VENTILATION KINGS LTD.

Ventilation Kings provides professional radon testing and mitigation in Halifax and across Nova Scotia. We offer realtime radon monitoring and effective mitigation systems to reduce radon levels and protect your home and family. Derek Hennessey Dartmouth, NS (902) 200-6033

info@ventilationkings.com ventilationkings.com

Energy & EnvironmentENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES

VMG STRATEGIC TECHNOLOGY

VMG is a modern technology partner helping organizations operate securely, leverage data, and adopt emerging technologies with confidence. Based in Atlantic Canada, VMG delivers secure IT operations, data security, and practical innovation through automation with a zero-trust approach that strengthens security posture while improving reliability and scalability.

Adam Benson Bedford, NS (902) 442-1881

hello@vmgst.com vmgst.com

Computers, IT & TechnologyTECHNOLOGY MANAGEMENT

NEWSMAKERS

WE ARE YOUNG

We Are Young is a charity dedicated to empowering seniors by addressing social isolation, enhancing mental and physical well-being, and restoring a sense of purpose through transformative wish fulfillment. Experience-based wishes create lasting memories while challenging societal perceptions of aging and fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect.

Ryan Blackwell

Middle Sackville, NS (902) 222-9114 ryan@weareyoung.ca weareyoung.ca

Not-For-Profit GroupsCHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS

WITH INTENTIONS

Nailah Tataa

Dartmouth, NS (902) 901-6466 withintentionsproducts@gmail.com

Arts, Culture & EntertainmentCRAFTS

WORKCORE AI

WorkCore AI helps construction and property management companies deploy, manage, and scale an AI-ready workspace where specialized AI coworkers strengthen operations, workflows, and decision-making. We help businesses identify where AI fits, how it should be introduced, what internal preparation is needed, and how solutions become part of real business workflows.

Ali Nafarieh

Fall River, NS (902) 932-3857

sales@workcore.ai workcore.ai

Computers, IT & TechnologySOFTWARE CONSULTING

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

Advertising, PR & MediaSOCIAL MEDIA

YOUR WAY AUTO

Your Way Auto is a trusted used vehicle dealership in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, proudly part of the Steele Auto Group. Offering a wide selection of quality preowned vehicles, transparent pricing, and professional service, the team delivers a straightforward, customer-first buying experience backed by strong industry reputation and support.

Gary Mason

Dartmouth, NS (902) 334-5759

gmason@steeleauto.com yourcaryourway.ca

Transportation - AUTOMOTIVE SALES/LEASING

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

How our members are growing Halifax

OCEAN GROUP OF COMPANIES FOUNDER APPOINTED TO THE ORDER OF NOVA SCOTIA

John George (Jack) Flemming, founder of the Ocean Group of Companies, was appointed to the Order of Nova Scotia for his work as a philanthropist and entrepreneur. He is recognized for his contributions to local charities and professional associations “I am happy to announce, on behalf of The King and all Nova Scotians, the 2025 appointments to the Order of Nova Scotia,” said His Honour. “These Nova Scotians have made outstanding contributions to their professions and communities – their meaningful contributions have directly benefitted Nova Scotians and Canadians.”

CALIBRATICS COMPLETES SOFTWARE TO CONNECT REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY TO TECHNOLOGY

The Calibratics team just finished designing 1BrokerHub, a comprehensive system that connects independent real estate brokerages and franchises with a hub for their transaction & agent management, business KPIs, and and comprehensive analysis of their deals. Their next step is layering in AI-enablement to give real estate leaders the keys to understand how their business is performing and opportunities to take it to the next level.

GOVERNMENT OF CANADA INVESTS IN THE GROWTH OF WOMEN’S PROFESSIONAL SOCCER IN ATLANTIC CANADA

On April 18, Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship and Member of Parliament for Halifax West, announced federal support to Soccer Nova Scotia to upgrade the BMO Soccer Centre, creating a professional, year-round training environment for the Halifax Tides FC ($277,100 non-repayable). Minister Diab was joined by Shannon Miedema, Member of Parliament for Halifax. This investment helped modernize athlete, staff, and operational spaces to close critical infrastruture gaps at the not-for-profit’s premier indoor soccer facility. Upgrades to locker rooms, treatment areas, staff offices, and training equipment will enhance athlete health and recovery, improve operations, and meet professional standards. This enables the team to train locally at a high-performance level and advances the growth of the league.

AUTISM NOVA SCOTIA APPOINTS VICKI HARVEY AS INTERIM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Autism Nova Scotia is pleased to announce the appointment of Vicki Harvey as Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Vicki has been part of Autism Nova Scotia since its early beginnings, bringing decades of experience and a deep connection to the organization. Her longstanding involvement has helped shape programs, services, and advocacy efforts across the province. She has also been a key contributor in the development of Nova Scotia’s Autism Action Plan, advancing priorities that reflect the voices and needs of the Autistic community.

“As a parent and advocate, I know first-hand the value of this work and what it means to Nova Scotians,” said Vicki Harvey, Interim CEO. “My focus is on ensuring Autistic individuals and their circles of care feel confident in the programs, services, and supports they rely on. I am committed to listening, learning, and working alongside our communities.”

MSVU CONVOCATION CELEBRATES HONORARY DEGREE RECIPIENT LISA LAFLAMME

During MSVU’s spring convocation ceremonies held May 15 and 16, more than 600 students from arts, science, education, and professional programs joined the university’s global alumni community, now more than 40,000 strong. Dr. Lisa LaFlamme, O.C., O.Ont., global journalist and human rights activist – and the first woman to anchor CTV’s national newscast – received a Doctorate of Humane Letters, honoris causa, at the ceremony. Dr. LaFlamme noted that convocation is not an ordinary achievement, because education remains out of reach for so many around the world. She called on graduates to use their education, curiosity, and humanity to foster community and shape a better world. “Education is not just a personal achievement, it’s a form of power and what you do with that power matters,” she said.

HIAA BUILDS ON MILESTONE YEAR WITH CONTINUED GROWTH

At its 2026 annual public meeting, Halifax International Airport Authority (HIAA) highlighted progressive passenger growth, expanded connectivity, and significant economic impact across the province, as it marked 25 years of managing

and growing Halifax Stanfield. “We marked our milestone year with strong increases in passenger demand and sustained investment in our airport, strengthening the connections that bring people, businesses, and communities closer together,” said Joyce Carter, President & CEO, HIAA. “Into 2026, that momentum is building, with more destinations, deeper partnerships, and a clear focus on creating a more connected, adaptable, and accessible airport for the future.” Total revenue increased by 2 per cent, supported by higher passenger volumes and solid performance across all revenue categories, reflecting the continued strength and diversification of HIAA’s business model. Expenses increased year-over-year, primarily driven by inflationary pressures and increased operational demand, including higher costs for materials, services, and personnel. This resulted in net income of $19.4 million, which will be reinvested into airport operations and infrastructure to support forecasted growth and service improvements.

NEW CHAIR AND VICE-CHAIR OF THE HALIFAX PORT AUTHORITY BOARD OF DIRECTORS

André Boudreau and Deanna Byrne have been elected to the positions of Chair and Vice-Chair of the Halifax Port Authority. Mr. Boudreau assumes the role of Board Chair and Deanna Byrne assumes the role of Vice-Chair. Their

appointments take effect immediately. Mr. Boudreau was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Halifax Port Authority in July 2019. He currently sits as Chair of the Governance Committee and has served as Chair of the Audit and Finance, Seaport Market, Infrastructure, and Sustainability Committees during the past seven years. Ms. Byrne (formerly Furlotte) ICD.D was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Halifax Port Authority in February 2021. She currently serves as Chair of the Human Resources and Compensation Committee and has contributed across all board committees. The Port of Halifax connects Canada to the world creating prosperity for our communities. Through our leading international gateway, we deliver safe, efficient, resilient and sustainable operations for shipping, cargo, and cruise customers.

HALIFAX CHAMBER BOARD MEMBERS NAMED TOP 25 MOST POWERFUL WOMEN

Atlantic Business Magazine named their Top 25 Most Powerful Women in Business for 2026, and we are proud to announce two members of the Halifax Chamber Board of Directors, Nancy Foran and Denise Daley were named on the list. Daley is Founder and Chief Wellness Scientist of Nasore Wellness, and Nancy Foran is President and Founder of ESG Partners Inc. They are both valued members of the Board of Directors, and the Halifax Chamber team and Board would like to congratulate them on this welldeserved honour! Photo credit: Kelly Clark Fotography

HALIFAX CHAMBER WELCOMES NEW STAFF

The Halifax Chamber of Commerce is pleased to welcome Peter MacAskill to the team as VP of Policy, External Affairs and Business Development Peter brings more than 30 years of executive leadership experience as a CEO/COO, with a strong track record of driving growth and transformation across sectors. He previously served as President & COO of Invest Nova Scotia and brings deep expertise in investments, restructures, and mergers. Peter is also a respected leader in operations, team development, and community engagement, having served as former Chair of Symphony Nova Scotia and currently as a Board Member of the Symphony Nova Scotia Foundation.

We are also pleased to officially welcome Mandi Bowser as our new Membership Services Specialist! Mandi has been a friendly and welcoming face with the Halifax Chamber as our receptionist for almost a decade, and she is looking forward to continuing to serve our members and support them in getting the most out of their memberships. Welcome, Peter and Mandi!

DRDC-LED MARITIME AUTONOMY TRIALS ADVANCE COLLABORATIVE INNOVATION IN CANADA

COVE is proud to support the Canadian Autonomy Trials Series–Maritime (CATS-M) in Holyrood, NL. The inaugural trial brought together remotely piloted and autonomous maritime platforms, acoustic sensors, and information systems to provide a realistic, system-integration-level environment for detecting and tracking underwater targets. With a focus on underwater domain awareness, the CATS-M trial series is part of an ongoing collaboration between COVE and Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC) to support maritime testing and validation of innovative technologies with industry partners. This CATS-M trial integrated solutions from several COVE ecosystem partners, including Open Ocean Robotics, JASCO Applied Sciences, and General Dynamics Mission Systems-Canada. The CATS-M trial series is a critical step in advancing Canadian capabilities in autonomous maritime surveillance.

HEALTHEME SIGNS MOU WITH GOVERNMENT OF MEXICO TO ADVANCE HEALTHCARE

HealthEMe, the Halifax-born digital health company that has always believed healthcare innovation knows no borders, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Mexico’s Ministry of Economy, cementing one of the most exciting and consequential Canada–Mexico health partnerships in recent memory. Witnessed at the highest levels of government by Marcelo Luis Ebrard Casaubon, Mexico’s Minister of Economy, and Dominic LeBlanc, President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister Responsible for Canada–U.S. Trade, Intergovernmental Affairs, Internal Trade and One Canadian Economy, today’s signing is a declaration that HealthEMe is ready to help transform health systems at a continental scale.

Don Bureaux has always carried Nova Scotia with him. He was born in New Brunswick, but the province next door was never simply a pin on the map. It was where life happened—where his parents and siblings were born, where weekends were spent visiting with family, where summers unfolded at the family cottage, and where identity began taking root before professional life began.

When he arrived in Nova Scotia to attend university, he stayed. Looking back now, he says it’s clear that it was a return home.

“I have a deep, deep passion for this province—it’s been very good to me, and has given me tremendous opportunity. And I think it is destined for an incredibly bright future,” he says.

That sense of gratitude is evident in Bureaux’s voice as he describes his new role as President and CEO of the Halifax Chamber of Commerce, which officially began in March 2026. There are also hints of something else—excitement for what is to come, and pride in the history that this will build off of, with nearly three centuries of history that has helped shape the economic and cultural fabric of Halifax.

For him, the new role is not simply a new leadership position, but also an opportunity to serve a province by championing the people and businesses that help make life here possible, and being an ambassador for business in the region.

A voice for business, a vision for Halifax

Don Bureaux brings a lifelong belief in Halifax, and those who build it, to his new role as President and CEO of the Halifax Chamber of Commerce

By Sara Ericsson

“I’m honoured, privileged, and excited to be taking on a role in an organization that’s 276 years old—I do not take that lightly,” he says.

A moment of possibility

An accountant by training, Bureaux studied business at Acadia University and later earned a master’s degree in Scotland. He became a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) and began his career in public practice with KPMG. Bureaux would then move into the post-secondary space, where he would work for more than 15 years as President of Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC).

It was through this role that Bureaux began to see business through a much broader lens, and the role strong economies play in building healthy communities—how they can help create spaces where people feel safe, where careers grow, where people raise families, and where a future feels attainable.

“I’m a person who believes deeply in the power of business as a catalyst for economic and social prosperity. Healthy communities are only possible if you have multiple dimensions of what prosperity includes: economic, social, cultural, environmental points of view,” says Bureaux. “We need an economy that’s firing on all cylinders—an economy that’s able to evolve and transition based on how the world economy is changing.”

It’s a conviction shaped by decades of watching Nova Scotia adapt to withstand change, compete beyond its size, and prove its resilience. At the same time, Bureaux’s confidence in Nova Scotia is not blind, and comes with a clear-eyed understanding that it must continue to improve, particularly around its productivity.

“I don’t shy away from things we’re going to have to do better,” he says.

He sees this moment as one of possibility. As the world evolves at breakneck speeds, old assumptions about where opportunity lives are being rewritten. Nova Scotia’s geography has historically created challenges for rapid growth, but is now positioned to help its economy boom.

Nova Scotia also benefits from an unusually strong education ecosystem, with 10 universities and a pan-provincial college system. Its relatively small size can also entice companies who need ideas to move quickly via pilot programs and conversations, which can grow into meaningful collaborations.

“We’re a place where ideas can move quickly from idea into commercialization because of the partnerships we have,” he says. “This era will be different. When one of the most important factors of production is highly valued, highly educated, enterprising, entrepreneurial people, Nova Scotia is positioned well.”

Halifax Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Don Bureaux is “honoured, privileged, and excited” to take on his new role. “I do not take that lightly.”

How relationships shape business and economies

Bureaux’s years as President of NSCC forged how he thinks about leadership. He worked closely with employers, community organizations, governments, and educators across the province, seeing firsthand how progress is built on collaborations, and how these happen quite naturally in Nova Scotia and Halifax’s business communities.

“It’s a mindset I think we’re particularly good at here in Nova Scotia—bringing the right people together, at the right time, to pursue unique opportunities in unique ways,” he says. “I saw this firsthand at NSCC, working closely with business, public, nonprofit and private communities. That really inspired me.”

His own relationships with these communities strengthened, and they lay at the root of his work at the Chamber.

Donna Harding, Chair of the Halifax Chamber Board of Directors, says these are part of what helped Bureaux begin immediately engaging with key business and government leaders on critical issues and large opportunities facing Halifax Regional Municipality and Nova Scotia across areas from healthcare, to housing, to defence.

“Don’s transition into the Chamber leadership has been seamless, owing to his strong and expansive relationships across the wider business and government community. He’s prioritizing engagement with members, listening to their priorities, and leveraging his deep business and education experience to champion their needs,” says Harding.

“He’s a stellar addition to our team as the new President and CEO, and his leadership of the Chamber has been noteworthy and recognized by management

and staff. His deep understanding of the economic, social, and political landscape is proving to be a huge asset in his new role.”

Bureaux’s years of building networks have placed him at the centre of conversations with government, post-secondary education, and employers. It’s an experience that shows him how critical the Chamber’s advocacy role is to fostering collaboration. In turn, he says the connections this creates help build confidence in Canada’s economic system, and in the businesses who are part of it.

As the world remains unsettled, he says this could not be more critical.

“We have a role to play in helping create that sense of self as a business community,” he says. “In this new world order, the business community in Halifax

and around Nova Scotia can compete and succeed with the best in the world,” he says.

There are others who credit Bureaux as the driving force that helps instill that confidence in others, including Katherine Risley, Vice Chair of the Halifax Chamber Board of Directors. She credits it to the calm, thoughtful and highly approachable leadership style that Bureaux brings to his new role.

“That inspires confidence at a pivotal time for our business community. Don has a strong track record of leading organizations through meaningful evolution to meet the needs of the moment. That experience, combined with his focus on ensuring the Chamber is well-positioned to support members in seizing future opportunities, is exactly the kind of leadership needed in today’s environment,” she says.

“I’m excited to see how his focus will enable the board to better support our members and help unlock new opportunities for Halifax’s business community.”

The growing sense of confidence in HRM extends to several specific sectors where Bureaux sees major opportunity for business. The defence sector, in particular, is an existing focus and economic engine for the region, from shipbuilding and submarine support to their surrounding supply chains that power companies supplying the services, technology, expertise, and innovation needed to support large-scale defence efforts.

“In this new world order, the business community in Halifax and around Nova Scotia can c ompete and succeed with the best in the world,” says Bureaux. Photo credit: Kelly Clark Fotography

Other confidence-boosting areas include an increasingly relevant geographic advantage, as trade shifts eastwest and Nova Scotia’s position between North America and Europe, and another less tangible component of why markets seek out Nova Scotia: trust.

“We have an incredible brand around the world as a region, as a population, as a business community that can be trusted,” he says. “That reputation matters.”

It’s a reputation that Halifax Regional Municipality Mayor Andy Fillmore says Bureaux is perfectly positioned to uphold and bolster as he brings a “remarkable combination of leadership and partnership-building” to his new role.

“Halifax is entering a period of significant growth and investment, and moments like this require leaders who understand how institutions, businesses, and communities work together to prepare for what comes next. I look forward to working with Don and the Chamber as we continue building a capital region that is ready for the future and positioned for long-term success,” says Fillmore.

A strong, collective voice

For current and prospective members, Bureaux describes Chamber membership as both practical and powerful, with some obvious core benefits like access to events, networking, communications, and affinity programs. Other less obvious ones include areas from health benefits, as well as opportunities to connect with potential clients, partners, and peers, gaining visibility and momentum as they do.

There is one, again perhaps less tangible than the others, that is a central tenet of Bureaux’s approach to leading the organization. Membership, to Bureaux and so many others, creates a strong collective.

“I

have a deep, deep passion for this province,” says Bureaux. “It is destined for an incredibly bright future.”

“When you join the Chamber of Commerce, your voice is magnified. When we communicate as a collective, we’re able to effect change and impact public policy,” he says. “There’s a sense of a collective. When you come together with like-minded individuals, you are part of an economic movement. That’s really where we are, in Halifax—there’s an incredible movement happening in this province.”

That sense of movement is what Bureaux wants members to feel. Not just that they belong to an organization, but that they are part of something consequential. After 276 years, the Halifax Chamber of Commerce has endured because it has evolved over time. Bureaux sees this as something that remains one of the Chamber’s greatest strengths and responsibilities, and feels it must continue adapting to what members need most, from strengthening its advocacy, networking and collaboration, and clear communication to cut through economic uncertainties.

His approach will remain rooted in relationship-building to ensure the

Chamber maintains strong, transparent, and constructive relationships with elected officials and senior civil servants across all levels of government. He says the Chamber will both voice members’ concerns, and arrive at those conversations with solutions.

“We don’t want to just identify issues,” he says. “We also want to be part of a solution-minded group.”

As Bureaux turns the pages of his new chapter as Chamber President and CEO, his enthusiasm is unmistakable. He is stepping into it with energy, gratitude, and a calm sense of purpose. The Chamber may be almost three centuries old, but Bureaux is focused firmly on what comes next.

A stronger business community, a more confident Halifax, and a Nova Scotia ready to meet the future.

“I’m really quite jazzed at this opportunity,” he says. “We’re going to continue to work with our members to make sure we are providing the type of advocacy, convening, and communications that matter most to them.” ■

Pride in business

How the Queer Atlantic Business Hub is building connection, visibility, and support for queer entrepreneurs

By Sara Ericsson

WDarrell Schuurman is CEO and co-founder of the Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce (CQCC).

hen queer entrepreneurs build businesses, they’re often building more than a product, service, or brand. They are building a place to belong.

For many, entrepreneurship begins with a dream—the pull toward independence, flexibility, or to create community impact. For others, this is just one of the factors driving their decision to start their own business, or offer their own services. The others may have been more closely aligned with a workplace that never quite felt safe, an event where assumptions happened before introductions finished, or working as part of a system that did not provide equitable opportunity.

Until now, queer entrepreneurs in Atlantic Canada have worked without a formal regional organization designed specifically for them.

Now, the Queer Atlantic Business Hub is here to change that.

“The need was clear,” says Vanessa Burns, owner of Vanessa Burns Grant Consulting and current Queer Atlantic Business Hub board member. “For people to see themselves as part of this, whether their work is a side hobby, one of their many gigs in a gig economy, or a full-time thing, this will really open up access to opportunities and networking.”

Rooted in research

Launched in Moncton on March 13, the Queer Atlantic Business Hub is a new Atlantic-wide community created by and for 2SLGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs. Its mission is to help shape the future of queer business in Atlantic Canada, and it seeks to accomplish this through connecting queer entrepreneurs with one another, increasing visibility of queer-owned and queer-led businesses, and increasing

access to education and supports.

The Hub was created as a response to a long-standing gap in the region’s business ecosystem. Its ideation began when the need was identified by the Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce (CQCC)’s CEO and co-founder, Darrell Schuurman, as part of the work the organization does to remove barriers, build visibility, and ensure queer entrepreneurs have the connections and support they need to grow.

“We know that 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs still face barriers, despite progress made,” Schuurman says. “So we set out to create change one connection at a time.”

This thinking informed the CQCC’s decision to select an Atlantic-based organization. In April 2025, the organization issued a request for proposal (RFP) to find a regional partner that could lead community engagement and help establish a dedicated regional queer business hub. The RFP was awarded to SeaChange CoLab, a Moncton organization led by owner and founder Corrie Melanson. It was one of nearly 30 bids, signalling many saw major potential in this idea.

For Melanson, the decision on how to begin was clear—work would start with listening. Her organization began working on the project in July 2025 and spent nine months mapping the landscape and listening to queer entrepreneurs across the region. This process included a survey that received more than 100 responses, nearly 30 in-depth interviews, focus groups, and provincial reports designed to better understand the lived experiences, barriers, and priorities of queer entrepreneurs across Atlantic Canada.

The research surfaced several themes from entrepreneurs like access to funding, mentorship, mental health supports, bilingual services, rural realities, and relationship-centred approaches. It also confirmed what many queer entrepreneurs already knew from experience—that existing business spaces are not always a good fit, and present barriers to queer team members.

These barriers can be overt, but are more often subtle, whether they appear as a registration form that does not ask the right questions, or a networking event where someone assumes a person has a certain partner, or a speaker lineup that doesn’t reflect the communities served.

“The data didn’t exist, so we had to go out, get the data and understand it for ourselves. And we found the research said, ‘queer entrepreneurs aren’t finding what they need in spaces that already exist.’ I can say—as a queer entrepreneur myself—that there are things that happen that make things feel uncomfortable, not inclusive,” says Melanson.

“It’s very subtle—a lot of spaces don’t know what they don’t know. With the Hub, it creates a safety and comfort which allows an entrepreneur to be their authentic self in a space where they don’t have to explain.”

An accessible, Atlantic-wide space

From the beginning, the Queer Atlantic Business Hub was designed to serve all four Atlantic provinces across diverse urban centres, rural communities, languages and cultures. Its mandate is to build a shared space across those differences, which meant it once again looked to the research it gathered to find intersectionalities.

This research showed several consistent needs across the region from information on grants, loans, and funding opportunities, to an online database of queer-owned businesses where members can find and support one another, to workshops and networking events, to peer learning and opportunities to discuss shared experiences.

With the hub’s foundation now in place, Melanson says SeaChange CoLab began an intentional recruitment effort to build a board reflecting communities the Hub serves. That meant regional representation, as well as intersectionality, youth representation, and inclusion of Indigenous, Black, newcomer, racialized, and trans community members.

The first board orientation happened in March, and leadership is now fully handed over. As a board member herself, Burns says SeaChange CoLab has more than delivered on this work, and that the board is unlike any she has served on before.

“We have the most diverse board I’ve ever sat on,” she says. “It is entirely bilingual and committed to being bilingual, with lots of representation from Black, Indigenous, and trans communities. We reflect on who we’re serving and make sure that representation is there.”

The Hub arrives at a moment when queer entrepreneurs are already contributing to local economies, cultural life, innovation, and community resilience. What has been missing is infrastructure built specifically with them in mind, and which creates opportunities for networking and connection building.

These connections, in turn, create safety and comfort that has become even more important amid rising anti-queer and anti-trans sentiment, according to Melanson. They note there remain places across Atlantic Canada where entrepreneurs feel comfortable sharing that they are queer. For those business owners, having access to a queer-centred network offers a meaningful source of support, visibility, and connection.

“When you’re in a space where you don’t have to explain yourself over and over again, that matters,” says Melanson. Building with intention

Another priority in building the Hub was ensuring access to it and its services. Burns says membership is designed with three levels to help make participation more affordable, and programming is offered bilingually, and in both virtual and hybrid formats whenever possible to reduce travel barriers.

“To be able to connect with other queer entrepreneurs, without travel, and to really connect with people who understand Atlantic realities, makes the Hub a great thing to be a member of,” Burns says.

Its launch in Moncton signaled the beginning of the work that is to come. The Hub has continued showing up in community, with its first community event that took place in Hantsport on May 27. Burns says the response from those who attended was very encouraging, and sparked awareness and conversations with potential partners and

SPOTLIGHT

collaborators.

“In order for people to know who we are, they have to know we exist,” she says. “We want people to understand we are here to support, and collaboration is an important piece of that.”

For Melanson, connecting with queer business hubs across Canada reinforced an important lesson: no region needs to reinvent the wheel. She says that as it continues growing, the Hub will operate as a regional affiliate of CQCC, and connect into a shared system where queer chamber hubs across Canada share events, happenings, trainings, all in combination with Atlantic Canada-specific programming.

“The way it will eventually work is you become a member of your region or province, then get an affiliate membership for the national CQCC organization,” she says.

Schuurman says this direct link will allow for ongoing alignment around programming, advocacy, supplier diversity, certification, and community engagement, and a direct path ensuring Atlantic voices remain part of national conversations.

“We’re continuing to explore ways to strengthen these relationships through both digital and in-person touchpoints, with a focus on ensuring regional voices remain central to national conversations and initiatives,” he says.

The CQCC has recently undergone its own evolution, evolving in October 2025 from Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce to the Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce.

Schuurman says this shift, which happened alongside the launch of a new membership model called The FAM, was intentional.

“It reflects our commitment to better represent the full diversity of the queer business community, and to connect more meaningfully with entrepreneurs who may not have seen themselves reflected in traditional chamber structures and spaces,” he says.

An idea becomes reality

The Queer Atlantic Business Hub is still new, and its membership portal is opening. It has set a goal to welcome 100 founding members as it launches, grows, and continues shaping its direction. For Burns, the most exciting part right now is seeing what was just an idea become reality.

“Seeing a concept take off, from RFP to recent launch,” she says. “We’re very excited and keen to have this in the Atlantic provinces.”

Supports that members can now access include virtual workshops and learning sessions focused on starting, sustaining, and growing a business, as well as information on funding, collaboration, and business opportunities.

Burns says an even deeper value may be the ability to find one another, and reduce the isolation many queer entrepreneurs experience. This will happen through a mix of elements, from the Atlantic Queer Business Hub badge members can use on their websites and social platforms to signal their place in a growing regional network, to monthly virtual events that foster connection and peer support.

“Networking events, coming together and meeting with other queer entrepreneurs, discussing shared experiences with like-minded people—those opportunities to connect with each other and cross-share things make a big difference,” she says.

Allies also have a role to play. Schuurman says supporting queerowned businesses both can and should go beyond symbolic gestures, whether by actively seeking out certified queerowned businesses, embedding diverse suppliers into procurement processes, pursuing Rainbow Registered accreditation, and/or ensuring internal policies and practices are genuinely inclusive.

“Supporting queer-owned businesses is a smart economic strategy,” he says. “This is where inclusion and strategy intersect.”

At its heart, the Hub is about more than business support, according to Burns. It is about safety, visibility, access, community and even confidence. It’s about making sure queer entrepreneurs across Atlantic Canada do not have to build alone, and recognizing that when queer businesses grow strong, the entire region becomes stronger.

“That’s why, at the end of the day, the Hub was founded—to create a place where queer people feel supported and safe, where they can gather and feel others understand,” says Burns. ■

Join us on July 28 for “PATIO PERSPECTIVES: Closing Gaps with the Queer Atlantic Business Hub.” Register at halifaxchamber.com/events.

Still thinking outside the box at 95

A circular story, made in Nova Scotia

You have almost certainly held Maritime Paper’s work in your hands without ever knowing it.

The flat of blueberries from Costco. The lobster shipped three provinces away. Mussels, frozen fries, soft drinks. Behind a remarkable amount of what Atlantic Canada grows, catches, and makes, there is a corrugated box or package. And chances are, it came from a plant in Burnside that has been helping shape the region’s products since 1931.

Yes, folks! 1931.That was the year Maritime Paper opened on Almon Street in our very own province, in Halifax, during the depths of the Great Depression, when businesses everywhere were shutting their doors.

It began with a simple need: Atlantic Canada’s breweries needed boxes. Local investors joined forces with partners from Central Canada and the United States to meet that demand. Ninety-five years later, that early bet looks remarkably visionary.

Today, Maritime Paper is the only company in Nova Scotia still manufacturing corrugated packaging, with operations in Dartmouth, Moncton, and St. John’s. Its boxes carry seafood, produce, frozen foods, and industrial goods across the region and beyond.

President & CEO Sheldon Gouthro, who has spent 35 of the company’s 95 years with Maritime Paper, has seen the industry evolve firsthand.

“In the early days, customers simply wanted a box,” he explains. “Today, they want a billboard.”

Modern packaging does far more than protect a product. Customers are looking for shelf-ready packaging printed in five, six, or even seven colours—packaging that helps tell a brand’s story the moment a shopper sees it.

That ability to adapt has helped Maritime Paper navigate nearly a century of change, from shifting consumer expectations and e-commerce growth to

the challenges of a global pandemic.

Their philosophy has remained consistent: stay nimble, listen to the market, reinvest, and keep moving forward.

It’s a mindset that dates back to 1958, when entrepreneur R.A. Jodrey acquired the company under the Scotia Investments family of companies, and continued in 1967 with the opening of the Burnside facility where Maritime Paper still operates today.

A Circular Story, Made in Nova Scotia

At Maritime Paper, sustainability isn’t a marketing slogan—it’s built into the business model.

The company purchases paper produced from 100 per cent recycled corrugated cartons, then sells its own off-cuts and trim to sister company Scotia Recycling. That material is processed and returned to the mill, where it can be transformed into new paper products.

The box, quite literally, comes back around.

It’s a circular economy approach that reflects the long-term values of the broader Scotia Investments family and demonstrates how environmental responsibility can be woven directly into day-to-day operations.

That same long-term thinking extends to Maritime Paper’s people.

The company’s approximately 240 employees are part of a culture built around what Gouthro calls the three Ps: passion, pride, and purpose.

By this fall, four employees will each

celebrate 50 years with the company—an extraordinary 200 combined years of service at a business marking its 95th anniversary.

So, what’s next for a company approaching its 95th anniversary?

The same long-term thinking that has guided Maritime Paper for nearly a century continues to shape its future.

Recent investments in automation, facility upgrades, and enhanced employee spaces, including a new lunchroom and patio reinforce a simple message: after nearly a century, Maritime Paper continues to invest in its future. And according to Gouthro, there’s more to come in 2027 and beyond.

Telling Nova Scotia’s Story

Gouthro is quick to credit the partnerships that help regional companies stay visible in a national marketplace.

A longtime member of the Halifax Chamber of Commerce, Maritime Paper views organizations like the Chamber and partners such as Halifax Partnership as important allies in showcasing the strength of Nova Scotia’s business community.

It’s a collaborative approach that mirrors the way Maritime Paper operates—stronger together, connected to its community, and committed to helping tell Nova Scotia’s story.

For a company that has spent 95 years building its future in this province, that’s the goal: stay rooted, stay competitive, and be here for the next 95 years. Learn more at maritimepaper.com

Strengthening your employee value proposition

How NS Pension helps employers compete for talent through meaningful retirement benefits

By Marley Webb

To local businesses, recruiting and retaining employees remains a significant challenge as skilled workers continue to leave Nova Scotian shores. In a competitive talent landscape, benefits, pensions, stability, and long-term security are becoming increasingly significant job determinants for professionals considering where to build their future career and life.

As employers compete for talent, a strong pension offering may be one of the most overlooked tools available. For many organizations, offering a strong defined benefits retirement program was easier said than done. Developing a strong pension plan requires professional administration, investment management, governance, compliance, and long-term funding oversight, which was too challenging or costly for local organizations. “A lot of employers want to offer something stronger than a group RRSP or defined contribution (DC) plan, but building and managing a standalone defined benefit (DB) pension plan is simply not realistic for most organizations,” states Brendon LeLievre.

This led the Nova Scotia Pension Services Corporation (NS Pension) to expand its established and defined benefit pension model services to a broader category of private businesses. Employers no longer have to build their pension plan from scratch or rely on a retail-style retirement product; the introduction of PSSP Vantage offers private sector employers a variety of different participation and contribution levels to provide employer cost flexibility while reaping the benefits of joining a large, established pension plan with professional oversight, strong governance, disciplined investment management, clear funding policy, and the ability to pool risk across a large membership base. As an independent, non-profit organization co-owned by the trustees of the Public Service Superannuation Plan (PSSP) and

the Nova Scotia Teachers’ Pension Plan, NS Pension provides members with what no individual savings arrangements can provide on their own: predictable retirement income.

For some employers, offering a defined benefit pension plan is only half the challenge—the other half is managing it. With NS Pension, participating employers’ primary responsibility is minimized to remitting contributions and ensuring employee data are accurate. NS Pension supports members through their working years, helps employers participate in their Plan, manages pension data and contributions, provides retirement information, and supports pension payments when members retire by providing pension administration, investment management, compliance, member services, employer support, and education on the plans they serve.

Behind the scenes, it also includes investment management, risk management, financial reporting, governance support, and compliance work. Those pieces may not always be visible to members day to day, but they are essential to keeping a pension plan strong and well-managed over the long term.

Currently administering and managing pension plans on behalf of more than 80,000 members across Nova Scotia, managing almost $9 billion in assets. NS Pension’s strong governance, disciplined investment management, clear funding policy, and ability to pool risk across a large membership base have contributed to their growth.

A strong retirement program helps support one of the most important variables in any organization’s success: labour. With broader participation now available to eligible employers, including private sector organizations in Nova Scotia, the PSSP can support more workplaces while continuing to operate within a strong governance and risk management framework.

Offering a strong retirement program supports employee attraction, retention, and workforce stability by increasing your employees’ confidence that their current efforts are meaningfully contributing towards their longterm financial future and security. As employees increasingly value stability, affordability, and their future financial health, considering retirement confidence is no longer restricted to the end of talented workers’ careers; it’s a crucial determinant in whether a job opportunity provides them with a solid foundation to build their life.

Effective pension management also contributes to a stronger Nova Scotian workforce and a resilient business environment through increasing individuals’ long-term financial security and reducing employer pressure surrounding recruitment and retention. Stable retirement income impacts local communities as pensioners continue to spend, volunteer, and participate in the local economy. Thus, as more individuals enter retirement with a stable income, that stability positively impacts local households, businesses, and communities across the province.

Looking ahead, NS Pension intends to continue pursuing its vision of “strengthening the future of retirement in Nova Scotia by providing outstanding pension services” by bolstering Nova Scotian talent recruitment with a strong pension plan that provides prospective employees with stability and long-term value.

Have questions about NS Pension’s plan, process, services, and how it can support your business? Contact Brendon LeLievre, Senior Manager in Business Development at NS Pension, at leliebre@nspension.ca.

L earn more about PSSP at: nspssp.ca

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A full circle moment

Halifax’s defence sector is the region’s next growth engine, and Chamber members need to be ready to compete

Donna Harding Chair, Halifax Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

I came to Halifax first as a twelve-yearold sea cadet, long before I understood what this city would come to mean to me. Twenty-four years in the Canadian Navy followed, then a real estate brokerage built from the ground up with my husband, Sébastien. Now, as I step into the role of Chair of the Halifax Chamber of Commerce, I find myself back where I started: thinking about the sea, the service, and the sovereignty of this country. This is strategy, not sentiment.

Nova Scotia holds close to twenty percent of Canada’s defence and security workforce, though we make up only six percent of the national population. The Department of National Defence spent $2.4 billion in this province in 2023-24 alone, roughly five percent of our GDP. As Canada moves toward its NATO commitment of five percent of GDP spent on defence by 2035, that figure will grow substantially.

The opportunities ahead of us are concrete: a ten-year contract for sovereign space launch capability, the Regional Defence Investment Initiative, the Naval Shipbuilding Strategy, infrastructure upgrades across the base, and the new NATO DIANA Headquarters. The 2026 Defence Industrial Strategy sets a target of seventy percent of defence contracts going to Canadian firms over the next decade. For Halifax businesses ready to compete, this is our moment.

I understand this community because I served in it. I know what it means to work alongside the women who now command both the Atlantic Fleet and CFB Halifax, and I know how much our local businesses have to offer the people who wear the uniform.

The Chamber’s job this year is to make sure our members are not spectators to this growth. We will connect businesses with the information, policy access, and relationships they need to compete for these contracts and build

lasting partnerships with the defence sector. Sovereignty used to be a word we used to describe intent. Today it describes a strategy, one Halifax is positioned to lead.

I am proud to take on this role at a moment like this, and I look forward to working with our incredible Board, our members, and our new President and CEO to turn this opportunity into results for our whole business community. ■

Don Bureaux (President and CEO of the Halifax Chamber) and Donna Harding (Chair of the Halifax Chamber Board of Directors).

Halifax’s growth depends on getting the basics

Halifax is entering another major period of growth.

MAYOR ANDY FILLMORE

New defence investments, shipbuilding work, population growth, and private-sector expansion are expected to bring more jobs, more residents, and more economic activity to the municipality over the coming years.

That is a major opportunity for Halifax. But businesses and residents are already feeling pressure today.

Traffic congestion is worsening. Housing costs remain high. Infrastructure systems are under strain. And many employers are finding it harder to attract workers in a city where affordability and mobility challenges continue to grow.

Those concerns are real.

Over the past decade, Halifax grew faster than almost anyone expected. Businesses expanded, development accelerated, and entire communities changed quickly.

Now, much of the next wave of growth is still ahead of us. That’s why this moment matters.

If we wait until roads are overwhelmed, housing shortages deepen, and infrastructure falls further behind, Halifax risks becoming less competitive, less affordable, and harder to do business in.

We need to prepare now.

My view is straightforward: City Hall’s responsibility is not simply to welcome growth - it is to make sure Halifax is ready for it.

That means focusing on the fundamentals that allow a city and economy to function well: housing supply, mobility, enabling infrastructure, efficient municipal services, and responsible financial management.

Businesses need predictability. Workers need housing they can afford. Residents need confidence that roads,

I’m really optimistic about our future.”

transit, and infrastructure are keeping pace with growth.

That’s why projects like the Windsor Street Exchange, Bus Rapid Transit, wastewater upgrades, and ferry expansion matter so much. These are not isolated projects. They are investments in Halifax’s long-term economic capacity and quality of life.

The same is true for housing. The challenge now is not whether we support more housing in principle. The challenge is whether we can deliver housing quickly enough to meet demand and reduce pressure on residents and employers alike.

At the same time, City Hall must continue improving how it operates. Businesses should not face unnecessary

delays or outdated processes simply to invest, expand, and create jobs.

I’m really optimistic about our future.

More people and more economic activity can strengthen the municipality’s tax base and create the ability to invest more in infrastructure, public services, and community amenities - without placing all of the pressure on existing taxpayers.

That’s the opportunity in front of Halifax right now. The challenge is making sure we are ready for it.

Learn more at: halifax.ca

Halifax makes gains amid fiscal strains and productivity pains

Chief Economist Ian Munro breaks down the 2026 Halifax Index

Last month, Halifax Partnership launched the fifteenth annual Halifax Index presented by TD. As the arrival of summer provides an opportunity, I hope, for everyone to pause and reflect on the past and contemplate the future, let me share a few highlights and observations from this year’s edition.

In broad macroeconomic terms, perhaps the best summary is to say that things look … better than expected!

A year ago, we were still in a state of shock from the Trumpian tariff tirades aimed at Canada and feeling significant angst about where our economy might be headed. Now we have become better at differentiating bluster from action. The last year has seen its share of chaos, concerns, and complications, but to date, we have avoided calamity.

Halifax’s real GDP grew by 2.3% in 2025, and the increase in our real GDP per capita of 1.2% was tops among the Index’s set of benchmark cities. The population continued to rise, but not at the record pace of 2022-24 that generated growing pains in areas such as housing and transportation. The labour force expanded as well, but unemployment remained low by historical standards. Inflation was modest and a far cry from the spikes experienced as we emerged from the pandemic.

Halifax Partnership’s annual Business Confidence Survey, conducted by Narrative Research, gathers views from business owners on Halifax’s economy. Our Business Confidence Index, derived from that survey, rose in 2026 after three consecutive years of decline.

Productivity and growth challenges were major topics of discussion in 2025, as exemplified by the Halifax Partnership Productivity Puzzle series of events

and discussion papers. It is good to see awareness and understanding of these issues expanding, but work remains to be done on the underlying fundamentals. Nova Scotia continues to lag on capital investment statistics, and our annual survey of Halifax businesses showed lowered intentions to engage in a range of productivity-enhancing activities in 2026. Assessment results for Halifax P-12 students in reading, writing, and mathematics continue to be cause for concern.

This year’s Index also highlights the importance of fiscal discipline and sustainability as governments make difficult decisions about how best to spend taxpayers’ dollars on the infrastructure and services needed now and for the future.

Nova Scotia’s net debt-to-GDP ratio is forecasted to rise from 35.0% in 2025-26 to 45.4% by 2029-30, which would be its highest level since 2000-01. Halifax Regional Municipality is also increasing expenditures, with overall spending projected to rise by 8.4% in 2026-27 after a 7.1% increase the year before. Although HRM’s outstanding debt balance and debt service costs declined from 202425 to 2025-26, both are expected to rise significantly by 2027-28. Together, these trends reinforce the need to grow municipal and provincial tax bases.

Let me end, though, on another piece of good news from the Index. Housing issues have been front of mind in Halifax in recent years. While, unsurprisingly, real estate costs did rise again in 2025, apartment vacancy rates continued to ease, housing starts hit a new record high, and the number of housing units under construction jumped to almost 14,000 – enough to house approximately 30,000 people. This construction boom will continue to alleviate

IAN MUNRO CHIEF ECONOMIST HALIFAX PARTNERSHIP

affordability pressures.

To seize the opportunities ahead and respond effectively to the challenges facing our city, we need a shared understanding of where we stand today and the outlook for the future. The 2026 Halifax Index provides that evidence base, offering data and insights to inform decision-making, strategies, and policies.

Explore the full 2026 Halifax Index at halifaxindex.com

A place to call home: partnership, purpose, and community impact

Purpose-driven partnerships redefine community impact

It seems unlikely that when Ingvar Kamprad, a Swedish farmer and future entrepreneur, founded IKEA, he imagined his business changing lives in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Today, IKEA is a global retailer known for well-designed, sustainable, and affordable home furnishings. With 33.3 million in-store visits across Canada in 2025, IKEA has become part of everyday life for many households. Since opening in 2017, IKEA Halifax has been a strong commercial performer.

But business success is only part of the story.

IKEA Halifax has also established a meaningful presence in its community through partnerships that reflect its strengths—design expertise, functional home solutions, and co-worker engagement.

Among its long-standing partners is YWCA Halifax.

Through this collaboration, IKEA Halifax has stepped beyond its traditional role to help address complex social challenges, grounded in a shared belief that everyone has the right to a safe place to call home.

Central to this approach is IKEA Neighbourhoods, a global framework focused on supporting vulnerable communities through long-term partnerships and local action. By combining home furnishing expertise with community insight, IKEA works to create safer, more stable living environments—closely aligned with YWCA Halifax’s mission to support women and gender-diverse individuals and address housing insecurity and gender-based violence.

Safe space to call home

This approach came to life in a recent project supporting a new safe home for women and girls. IKEA Halifax worked closely with YWCA co-workers to thoughtfully design the space, using a trauma-informed approach that prioritizes comfort, safety, and dignity. From layout to furnishing choices, every detail was considered to help create an environment that supports healing and stability.

Beyond design, IKEA Halifax donated furnishings for shared living spaces and mobilized co-workers to bring the home to life—arriving with Allen keys in hand to assemble the flat-packed furniture and prepare the space for the individuals who would soon call it home. The result is more than a furnished house; it is a place of belonging and a foundation for rebuilding lives.

Much work remains to be done

This work reflects a broader shift in how business can, and should, contribute locally, with increasing emphasis on supporting vulnerable populations and strengthening community wellbeing.

“We’re honoured to be trusted with supporting real community needs,” says

Christine Krochak, Communication Specialist at IKEA Halifax. “As a community company, we have a responsibility to give back and be a good neighbour—helping create spaces where people feel safe, supported, and at home.”

The partnership also highlights the value of aligning strengths across sectors.

“Our work depends on partners who understand that a safe home is the foundation for stability and growth,” says Miia Suokonautio, CEO of YWCA Halifax. “IKEA brings more than furnishings—they bring care, creativity, and a genuine commitment to creating spaces where women and families can begin again.”

As Halifax continues to grow, initiatives like IKEA Neighbourhoods demonstrate how businesses can play a meaningful role in strengthening communities—contributing not only to economic success, but to more inclusive and resilient futures.

To learn more, please visit ikea.ca/halifax and ywcahalifax.com

You can’t agent yourself

GLENN MASSAD GLENN MASSAD COMMUNICATIONS

There’s a principle I’ve carried with me from my early career as a talent agent into every role since: you can’t agent yourself. It’s a simple idea, but it holds remarkable power across industries. At its core, it recognizes that perspective—clear, objective, and strategic—is often best delivered by someone outside the day-to-day.

Nowhere is this more evident than in communications.

In my fractional communications and public relations practice, I work with organizations, companies, and individuals who all have something important to say. They have a vision. A mission. A goal. An event. A story worth telling. But like most leaders and teams, they are deeply immersed in the work itself—focused on operations, growth, and execution. And in that immersion, something critical can get lost: clarity.

That’s where I come in.

My role is not to create something artificial or impose an external narrative. It’s to listen carefully, understand deeply, and then distill. I take the essence of what my clients want to convey—their purpose, their values, their ambition— and translate it into messaging that is clear, compelling, and aligned with their brand.

Because I’m not inside the day-today, I bring a different lens. A brand perspective. A strategic vantage point. I can see patterns, opportunities, and gaps that are often invisible from within. That distance allows me to shape communications that resonate not just internally, but with the audiences that matter most— clients, stakeholders, donors, and the broader community.

This is the essence of fractional communications.

Unlike traditional full-time roles or large agency engagements, a fractional model is designed to be flexible, efficient, and highly targeted. It means organizations can access senior-level communications expertise on a part-time or contractual basis—whether for a specific project, a defined period, or ongoing strategic support.

For some, that might look like short-term engagement around a major announcement or event. For others, it could be medium-term support to refine messaging, elevate brand positioning, or strengthen media relations. And for many, it becomes a long-term partnership—an embedded but external voice helping to guide communications strategy over time.

The value is not just in execution; it’s in perspective.

When you’re leading an organization or building something meaningful, you are necessarily close to it. You carry the vision. You feel the urgency. You understand every detail. But that proximity

can make it difficult to step back and ask: What is the clearest, most compelling way to express this?

A fractional communications partner helps answer that question. They help you “agent” your message—thoughtfully, strategically, and with impact.

I’ve seen firsthand how powerful this can be. When messaging becomes clear, confidence follows. When a story is well told, engagement grows. When a vision is articulated effectively, people lean in— whether they are clients, collaborators, or supporters.

That’s the work. And it’s the passion.

If you have a vision you’re trying to articulate, a message you want to sharpen, or a story you’re ready to share, the first step is a conversation.

Learn more and connect with Glenn today by visiting: gmcomm.ca

The case for fractional communications

You’re not the only one figuring it out

Inside the entrepreneur network helping Atlantic Canada’s business owners build community

What is EO? Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) is a global community of entrepreneurs designed to help business owners grow through peer learning, accountability, and shared experiences.

EO Atlantic Canada includes founders and business owners from across Atlantic Canada who are building companies, leading teams, and navigating the realities of entrepreneurship together.

From the outside, entrepreneurship can look exciting. Growth. Freedom. Opportunity. But behind the scenes, many business owners are asking themselves the same questions: Am I making the right decisions? Do I actually know what I’m doing? Why does this feel so lonely? What if I’m the problem?

For many entrepreneurs, the hardest part of leadership isn’t strategy or sales— it’s carrying the weight of uncertainty alone. That’s exactly why Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) exists.

EO is a global community built specifically for entrepreneurs who want more than networking events and surface-level business conversations. It’s a place where founders can speak openly, learn from peers who understand the pressure of leadership, and gain support from people who have lived similar experiences.

EO Atlantic Canada brings together entrepreneurs from across the region who are building businesses, creating jobs, and leading through growth.

For Halifax Tides FC Founder Courtney Sherlock, EO became the place where business learning finally clicked. “All of my business learnings have come from EO,” says Sherlock. “Having a built-in network of people who understand what you are going through and who can confidently discuss business at all levels is an incredible opportunity that many entrepreneurs would never have.”

Sherlock has spent years volunteering in leadership roles within EO locally, regionally, and globally—but what continues to matter most is the community itself. “I will never pay attention to what the dues cost for EO because there isn’t a world in which I can spend more than what I have received.”

EO members consistently say the same thing: entrepreneurship stops feeling isolating when you’re surrounded by people who genuinely understand the experience.

For Foundation Marketing founder Ross Simmonds, EO provided both accountability and perspective during periods of rapid growth. “With Foundation doubling in the last 12

months, my Forum has helped me work through how to manage fast growth,” Beyond business strategy, EO creates meaningful personal connections. Members gain access to learning events, global conferences, peer forums, mentorship opportunities, and a worldwide network of founders who openly share both successes and failures.

EO Atlantic Canada currently includes entrepreneurs representing millions in annual revenue and businesses employing thousands of people across the region. What connects them isn’t industry—it’s the willingness to grow. Because the truth is, even successful entrepreneurs still question themselves. The difference is that in EO, they don’t have to do it alone.

Interested in learning more about EO Atlantic Canada?

Visit EOAtlantic.com or email chaptermanager@eoatlantic.com to connect with a member, attend an upcoming event or prospect experience.

2026 Spring Dinner: AI in Practice - Working Smarter

How Nova Scotia–based organizations are using AI to drive productivity, innovation, and impact.

Attendees heard from four dynamic speakers on how AI is being applied across sectors in Nova Scotia. The common theme was recognizing that effective AI adoption depends on human skills like strong critical thinking, ethics, and leadership. They shared broad reflections on AI and the future of work, tangible success stories, and how the adoption of AI in post-secondary education is impacting future learners while increasing productivity for local companies.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPEAKERS:

Matt Symes, Symplicity Designs

Mike Smit, Dalhousie University

Karen Bedard, IWK Health

Victor Martinez, IWK Health

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

James Kehoe & Thomas Moore

33 Class of Laureates - October 14 Induction Gala

James (Jim) Kehoe’s career is defined by entrepreneurial vision, disciplined leadership, and an unwavering commitment to community development

Beginning his professional life as an apprentice carpenter, Jim built his career from the ground up, gaining hands on experience in the skilled trades while developing a deep respect for craftsmanship, people, and hard work This practical foundation became the cornerstone of a business career that would span more than five decades and leave a lasting impact on Cape Breton and Nova Scotia

Jim co founded Joneljim Concrete and Construction Limited, which steadily grew under his leadership to become the largest construction company on Cape Breton Island

Driven by an entrepreneurial spirit, Jim expanded beyond construction into a diverse portfolio of businesses spanning many sectors and industries

Through both organic growth and strategic partnerships, Jim strengthened local supply chains, stabilized existing enterprises, and created new opportunities for employment across Nova Scotia

Over the course of Jim’s career, he has worked closely with partners and managers to provide pathways for emerging leaders to move into ownership roles These succession focused arrangements reflect Jim’s belief that strong communities are built when talented people are supported, trusted, and given the opportunity to grow

Jim has been deeply involved in community economic development initiatives aimed at addressing capital gaps and fostering regional resilience

Philanthropy has been central to Jim’s life and legacy, shared closely with his late wife, Roma Kehoe Together, they supported a wide range of charitable causes, particularly in health care, education, youth, and community well being Their generosity and leadership have been recognized through numerous honours, including induction into the Cape Breton Business and Philanthropy Hall of Fame

Thomas (Tim) Moore is a nationally recognized entrepreneur, mentor, and community leader whose career reflects bold vision, disciplined execution, and a deep commitment to developing people and businesses Beginning with a single moving truck and a strong work ethic, Tim built a business legacy that spans multiple industries and decades, leaving a lasting imprint on Nova Scotia and Canada’s entrepreneurial landscape

Following the sale of AMJ Campbell, Tim continued to build and grow successful enterprises Across each venture, Tim applied consistent principles: disciplined growth, strong leadership teams, customer focused cultures, and long term sustainability He regularly hosts fundraising events in Chester, Nova Scotia and has extended his generosity to educational scholarships and community based organizations.

A defining element of Tim’s success has been his ability to identify talent and build exceptional teams Many

entrepreneurs credit his mentorship with shaping their leadership approach and career trajectory

Tim’s business philosophy is grounded in integrity, accountability, and respect for people Guided by deep personal faith and family values, he has consistently emphasized ethical decision making, strong work ethic, and transparency

Philanthropy plays a central role in Tim’s life For more than a decade, he has been a significant supporter of the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia, contributing to improved access to mental health and addictions services across the province

Business Hall of Fame

On October 14 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 th

Tables now available Learn more Visit nsbusinesshalloffame.ca

JA Nova Scotia

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Our programs build on and enhance the current provincial curriculum for students in grades 3 to 12 and are offered at no cost.

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

Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation