Busola Adeniji, Director of Finance and Administration
Emma Menchefski, Communications Manager
Emily Bednarz, Communications Specialist
Volume 34 • Issue 7
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: HallyCraft Cakes & Events Ltd
WONDER WOMEN 2025 WONDER WOMEN 2025
On June 13, 2025, the Halifax Chamber’s annual Wonder Women Conference brought together bold and ambitious people to connect, inspire, and empower one another at the Halifax Convention Centre. 2025 presenters included Barb Stegemann, Angie Gillis, Tia Upshaw, Dr. Denise Daley, Laura Whiteland, Navdeep Parmanand, Tracy MacDougall, Dani Warren, Jeannine Riant, Sarah Gallant, Dr. Maria Migas and Dr. Shawna O'Hearn, the Women Advisors of Assante Hydrostone, Ann-Marie Flinn, Martina Kelades, and Rebecca Davison. Thank you to all of our attendees, vendors, speakers, sponsors, and volunteers for being a part of this inspiring event. See you in 2026!
thank you to our vendors! thank you to our vendors! VENDOR MARKETPLACE EMPOWERED BY:
WONDER WOMEN 2025 WONDER WOMEN 2025
presented by: presented by: WONDER WOMEN
EVENTS
CHAMBER EVENTS
Wednesday, November 26
LUNCHEON
Minister Timothy Halman
11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Location TBA
THANK
Tuesday, October 2
SIGNATURE EVENT
ANNUAL CHAMBER GOLF CHALLENGE
9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Granite Springs Golf Club
Wednesday, October 8
NETWORKING
Walk & Talk with the Halifax Chamber
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Location TBA
For a full list of Chamber events, visit: halifaxchamber.com/events
Thursday, October 16
LUNCHEON
Fulvio Fracassi - Port of Halifax President and CEO 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Casino Nova Scotia
Friday, October 17
SIGNATURE EVENT SMALL BUSINESS BIG GROWTH
Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel
A strategy summit to take your small business to the next level!
Wednesday, November 12
SIGNATURE EVENT ANNUAL FALL DINNER
5:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Halifax Convention Centre
Tuesday, November 18
LUNCHEON
Building a Barrier-Free Nova Scotia: Safe and Ready for Work 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Aigility Hub offers a human approach to AI, helping businesses build the right mindset for digital transformation. We support small to mid-sized businesses, nonprofits, and professional service providers in navigating AI with clarity, confidence, and intention. We work across sectors to deliver practical, people-first solutions that fit seamlessly into everyday workflows.
Melissa Lloyd
Halifax, NS (709) 697-2922
hello@aigilityhub.com aigilityhub.ai
Business & Prof. ServicesCONSULTING (GENERAL)
AKSO MARINE BIOTECH INC.
AKSO takes advantage of marine resources, devoting time and assets to scientific and technological standards while adjusting industry and product structure. This ensures production of nutritional, high-value health products.
Nova Sea Atlantic® sea cucumber capsules are 100% wild-caught and sustainably harvested from the coastal waters of Nova Scotia, Canada.
Songwen Gao
Hacketts Cove, NS (902) 428-8888
info@akso.ca akso.ca
Industrial & ManufacturingPHARMACEUTICAL
ATLANTIC ECONOMIC COUNCIL
Andrea Tsang
Halifax, NS (902) 422-6516
communications@ atlanticeconomiccouncil.ca
atlanticeconomiccouncil.ca
Not-For-Profit GroupsCHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS
AVALON REALTY
Real estate is about more than just properties—it’s about people, trust, and results. We’re a full-service, relationship-focused brokerage working with national institutions, offshore investors, local business owners and families. With years of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of the market, we handle complex transactions with confidence and clarity.
John Burt
Halifax, NS (902) 221-4880
jburt@avalonrealty.ca avalonrealty.ca
Real Estate/Construction - REAL ESTATE RESIDENTIAL
BELLO DAY SPA
Carrie Faulkner Bedford, NS (902) 237-3588
Hello@bellodayspa.com bellodayspa.com
Personal Care & ServicesESTHETICS
BEYOND HOSPITALITY GROUP
Beyond Hospitality Group is a femaleowned restaurant collective in Halifax, creating unique dining experiences along the scenic waterfront. With a growing portfolio of diverse concepts, Beyond blends local roots with global inspiration. From fine dining to casual eats, each venue celebrates food, community, and design in thoughtful, memorable ways.
As a P.Geo. with a passion for people, Wren blends geoscience, education, and inclusion to make science approachable and help teams embrace diverse perspectives for better outcomes.
Wren Bruce Dartmouth, NS (902) 210-2871
wren@bruceGEOinsights.com
bruceGEOinsights.com
Business & Prof. ServicesGEOMATICS/GIS/GPS/MAPS
CORINA FRANK, ASSOCIATE MORTGAGE BROKER
My business is Corina Frank, Associate Mortgage Broker. I am part of TMG The Mortgage Group and have been in the business for five years. I won the TMG Rising Star Award in 2022 and the TMG Summit 20 Award in 2023 and 2024. I am here for all your mortgage needs!
Corina Frank Dartmouth, NS (902) 890-8755
corina.frank@mortgagegroup.com
corinafrank.tmgbroker.com
Finance & Insurance - MORTGAGE
DALHOUSIE UNITY IN BUSINESS SOCIETY
Ariadna Soria Halifax, NS (782) 321-7505
dalunity@dal.ca
Not-For-Profit Groups - STUDENT UNION
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.
Halifax Harbour Tours was started in 2019 by Colin Smith who saw a need for a small, quiet tour on the waterfront. After sourcing a boat and refurbishing and retrofitting it to run on an electric motor, tours began. The company now has four Captains, 16 guides, and over 300 5-star reviews!
Glenna Thornhill Halifax, NS (902) 456-4871
glenna@halifaxharbourtours.ca
halifaxharbourtours.ca
Travel & Tourism - TOURISM
HIBERNATE HEATING & COOLING
Alex Lovoi Halifax, NS (902) 412-5321
Industrial & ManufacturingHEATING/VENTILATION
HUMANKIND HR SOLUTIONS INC.
HumanKind HR Solutions helps organizations thrive with people-focused strategies rooted in performance, wellness, and empathy. Acting as your dedicated HR department, we offer scalable HR support based on business priorities. From recruitment and compliance to training and culture building we help create human, kind workplaces where people are the priority.
Bryan Burns Halifax, NS (902) 222-0110
bryan@hrocore.com
humankindhrsolutions.com
HR, Emplyment & Staffing - HUMAN RESOURCES
KILFOIL CONSULTING INC.
We collaborate with organizations to identify opportunities and implement sustainable improvements to business processes and management systems. Building on existing resources and capabilities, we produce practical and tailored solutions to address growth, innovation, and performance. We work across organizations to develop cohesive, strategically aligned, and scalable improvements that deliver lasting value.
Brennan Kilfoil Halifax, NS (902) 222-8103
brennan@kilfoilconsulting.ca
linkedin.com/company/kilfoilconsulting
Business & Prof. Services - BUSINESS CONSULTING
LOX
Lox is a luxury salon in downtown Dartmouth, specializing in high-end colour, expert styling, and bridal services. With a focus on sustainability, education, and exceptional client care, Lox offers a welcoming space where beauty, artistry, and community meet. Experience confidence, connection, and elevated hair care.
Lauren Arbuckle
Dartmouth, NS (782) 641-0569
lauren@thelox.ca
Thelox.ca
Personal Care & Services - HAIR SERVICES
MARGARET SCHWARTZ CONSULTING
This is where social purpose brands build trust through conscious communication. I work with you to embody mindful communication strategies, develop brand language, and tell stories of impact. Conscious alignment in communication has the power to unite community, business and governing bodies on a shared purpose that influences real change.
Margaret Schwartz
Dartmouth, NS (902) 579-5701
Margaretschwa@gmail.com margaretschwartzconsulting.ca Advertising, PR & Media - PUBLIC RELATIONS/AFFAIRS
MONAGHAN MEDICAL CENTRE
Alex Emeziem
Halifax, NS (902) 440-3015
stkany@yahoo.com monaghanmed.ca
Health Care - HEALTH CARE SERVICES, GENERAL
MRL DIGITAL STUDIO INC
Melody Lumen
Halifax, NS (902) 899-6643
melody@mrldigitalstudio.com mrldigitalstudio.com
Computers, IT & TechnologyCOMPUTER SOFTWARE
NEIGHBOURHOOD PLUMBING
Emily Stephen
Dartmouth, NS (902) 789-6935
emily@neighbourhoodplumber.ca
Industrial & ManufacturingPLUMBING
QHR TECHNOLOGIES
Chantal Keizer Kelowna, BC 1-855-550-5004
inquiry@QHRtechnologies.com qhrtechnologies.com
Health Care - MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIES
RIDGEBACK SECURITY INC
Ridgeback Security is a security consult ing and advisory firm. We conduct phys ical risk assessments and penetration testing, trainings-such as verbal de-esca lation, policy creation, and much more. With the safety and security landscape rapidly changing, Ridgeback Security is here to help keep your organization, staff, and assets safe and secure.
Christopher O’Brien
Dartmouth, NS (902) 293-1188
Resilience That Sticks. Resilience That Sticks.
Your workplace is only as strong as the people in it. Your workplace is only as strong as the people in it. Karen Dean Karen Dean helps leaders and teams strengthen helps leaders and teams strengthen mindset, boost resilience, and thrive—even in the mindset, boost resilience, and thrive—even in the toughest times. toughest times.
Karen to inspire your next event: KarenDeanSpeaks.com
We believe that business as usual is the road to ruin. Turning untapped potential into tangible results beats following outdated playbooks every time. We serve all project needs for scaling startups and established companies who need someone willing to make the hard decisions, speak uncomfortable truths, and take ownership of project success.
Make your wedding or corporate event in Halifax truly unforgettable with The Fine Tuners. Our violin duo and professional DJ services bring the perfect blend of tradition, elegance, and high-energy entertainment. For couples and event planners who want a seamless transition from live music to a full dance party.
thefinetuners.ca Events - DJ SERVICES
THE LEGALSEED
The LegalSeed is a non-traditional law firm founded by Veronica Dossah—a dual-qualified lawyer (Ghana and Nova Scotia), legal coach, and proud Dalhousie alumna. We help small, local, and newcomer-owned businesses embrace the law as a strategic tool for growth. Our culturally aware and relationship-driven approach demystifies legal services and empowers entrepreneurs.
Veronica Dossah
Halifax, NS (902) 266-4224
dalveronlaw@gmail.com
Business & Prof. Services - LAW
MEMBERS IN THE NEWS
How our members are growing Halifax
A MILESTONE FOR COMMUNITY
The Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre recently hosted a Sprouting Ceremony to mark the beginning of early site work on the future Wije’winen Centre. The ceremony was held at the future site on Gottingen Street which included birch tree planting—representing new growth, both in construction and in community. For over 50 years, the Friendship Centre has been a vital hub for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, offering more than 55 programs and services. The new Wije’winen Centre will build on this legacy, serving 7,000+ urban Indigenous clients annually in a space designed by and for the community. Update courtesy of Rebeccah Slaunwhite.
THE
CENTRE FOR WOMEN IN BUSINESS CELEBRATES MILESTONE IN SUPPORT OF WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS
The Centre for Women in Business (CWB) is proud to celebrate a major milestone in women’s entrepreneurship: the WEOC National Loan Program has officially dispersed $20 million in loans to more than 450 women entrepreneurs in over 200 communities across Canada. As the official Loan Fund Partner for Nova Scotia through the Women’s Enterprise Organizations of Canada (WEOC) National Loan Program, the Centre for Women in Business is proud to help women entrepreneurs access up to $50,000 in funding to launch, grow, and strengthen their businesses. This achievement highlights the strength of community-based collaboration, inclusive programming, and visionary investment in women-led businesses.
AMBASSATOURS GRAY LINE NAMED TRIPADVISOR
TRAVELERS’ CHOICE AWARDS WINNER FOR 2025
Ambassatours Gray Line is pleased to announce that it has been recognized in Tripadvisor’s® Travelers’ Choice® Awards for 2025. Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Award winners are among the top 10% of listings around the world on Tripadvisor. As the world’s largest travel guidance platform, Tripadvisor has unparalleled authority with travelers and diners. This award is based on genuine feedback from anyone in the community who has visited and left an authentic, first-hand review on Tripadvisor over a 12-month period, making it a valuable and trustworthy designation of travelers’ favourites.
CRESTVIEW EXPANDS TO UAE, APPOINTS REGIONAL HEAD TO LEAD GULF GROWTH
Crestview, a Canadian-founded leading agency in strategic communications and public affairs, is expanding its global reach with the launch of a regional office in Dubai, UAE, and the appointment of Alexander M. Wegner as Vice President, Head of Middle East. With 17 years of experience across the Middle East and Africa, Wegner will lead Crestview’s Gulf operations, focusing on strategic positioning, stakeholder engagement and market access. The move strengthens Crestview’s support for clients in the region and highlights Canadian expertise on the world stage, aligning with the agency’s continued growth and commitment to delivering impactful solutions for major global brands. Learn more at crestviewstrategy.com/insights/ crestview-expands-gulf-presence
INTRODUCING ATLANTIC FERTILITY
Atlantic Assisted Reproductive Therapies (AART) is now Atlantic Fertility! Why the change? We wanted an identity that reflects the modern, inclusive, and heartfelt fertility care we provide. We are still the same non-profit team and under the same ownerwhip—just a rebrand to simplify our name. (We also wanted a name that doesn’t take two business days to say!)
TEDXARGYLEST 2025: ROOTED IN RESILIENCE
On Saturday, August 9 at the LightHouse Art Center, Halifax witnessed a sold out TEDxArgyle St, themed “Rooted in Resilience: Inspired by the Bluenoser Spirit.” Sixteen diverse speakers shared transformative ideas, with more than half receiving standing ovations. The day offered not just talks, but a vibrant exchange of stories, ideas, and community spirit. Attendees left inspired, offering overwhelming positive feedback on the event’s impact. Organized by Fatu Kaba of HEARTS Global Network, whose vision brought together thought-leaders and change-makers, TEDxArgyle St celebrated Nova Scotia’s resilience and creativity. The experience reaffirmed Halifax as a hub for ideas worth spreading.
STEPHEN HARDING ONE OF THE TOP 50 CEOS
This past May, Stephen Harding, President & CEO of Dartmouth General Hospital (DGH) Foundation, was honoured to be named one of Atlantic Business Magazine’s Top 50 CEOs. He believes that this recognition is not his alone—rather, it’s a reflection of the incredible community that surrounds and uplifts him every day. From the incredible DGH care team to our partners, donors, volunteers, and neighbours—it’s your support, encouragement, and belief in the important work of the DGH that makes growth and progress possible. Harding thanks the many people who have helped the DGH Foundation ensure that Nova Scotians continue to receive exceptional care, close to home.
INTRODUCING THE QUEER ATLANTIC BUSINESS HUB
Sea Change CoLab is thrilled to announce the launch of the Queer Atlantic Business Hub, a new initiative dedicated to connecting and empowering 2SLGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs across Atlantic Canada. Spanning Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, PEI, and Newfoundland & Labrador, the Hub will build a strong and sustainable ecosystem where queer-owned and queer-serving businesses can thrive. Through connection, capacity building, visibility, and advocacy, the Hub aims to ensure equitable access to resources and opportunities—while celebrating the creativity, resilience, and impact of queer entrepreneurship. Our vision is a thriving, inclusive region where queer prosperity uplifts entire communities. Learn more at seachangecolab.com/ queer-atlantic-business-hub.
20 YEARS OF DROP ZONE
On August 12th, Easter Seals Nova Scotia celebrated 20 years of our signature fundraising event: Drop Zone Halifax at 1801 Hollis Street. Our 38 brave participants didn’t just rappel down the side of a tall building—they stood tall, took a deep breath, and made a bold statement: that inclusion matters, and that every person deserves the chance to experience their lives to the fullest. Funds raised directly support our summer camp program, Camp Tidnish, the only barrier-free and fully accessible overnight camp that hosts Nova Scotians with disabilities aged 10 to 80. Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate 20 years of Drop Zone!
THE LEGALSEED JOINS HALIFAX CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The LegalSeed is proud to announce its membership with the Halifax Chamber of Commerce as a non-traditional law firm. Formerly an individual professional member, founder Veronica Dossah—a dual-qualified lawyer, legal coach, and Dalhousie alumna—now leads the firm with a focus on Business Law, Intellectual Property, Immigration, and Legal Coaching. The LegalSeed partners with purpose-driven local and newcomerowned businesses to embrace the law as a tool for growth, not fear. With its fresh, culturally aware approach, the firm invites business owners to reimagine legal services: think law, think possibilities.
BRIDGEWATER TALENT WELCOMES GLOBAL LEADER FOR GROWTH
Bridgewater Talent Integration (BTI) is pleased to announce the hiring of Paul Sleath as Strategic Growth Consultant. Hailing from the UK, Paul brings 20 years of experience in Employer of Record and PEO services, expertise that aligns with BTI’s mission to help global companies grow in Canada. BTI provides Employer of Record and PEO solutions that allow organizations to hire Canadian employees without establishing a local entity. With Paul’s leadership, BTI is enhancing its ability to support international clients across industries.
NEW ANIMATION STUDIO LAUNCHES IN DARTMOUTH
We are delighted to introduce you to That Animation Company! Co-founders Lynn Chadwick and Steve Cooke bring over 30 years of experience in the animation industry to the business, which opened its doors earlier this year. When Chadwick and Cooke set out to name their new studio, they wanted something authentic. After discarding a dozen polished options, Cooke joked, “What about That Animation Company?” The phrase brought back memories of watching Abbott and Costello with his father, where a simple exchange turned into comedy gold: “What studio are you working with?” “That Animation Company.” “Which one?” “That Animation Company!” What began as a joke quickly stuck. For Chadwick and Cooke, the name became a promise: to be that animation company that respects its team, listens to clients, and sparks creativity.
BREATH FACTORY ANNOUNCES BUSINESS EXPANSION
The Breath Factory is proud to announce an exciting expansion! We are adding a Respiratory Therapy Technician (RTT) and four new nursing staff to support growing demand at both our Bedford and Dartmouth locations. This investment enhances our commitment to delivering exceptional respiratory and foot care services across the region. In addition, we are thrilled to share that a brand new clinic is opening in New Brunswick, further extending our reach and making care more accessible to more patients. These strategic additions reflect our dedication to patient-centered care, timely access to services, and expanding our impact across the Maritimes.
HARVEST BEER, WINE, SPIRITS RAISES $1,000 FOR DARTMOUTH GENERAL HOSPITAL FOUNDATION
Rain didn’t dampen the spirit at Harvest Beer, Wine, Spirits’ Community Grill & Give Back BBQ on June 28. With a sizzling grill, prize giveaways, and plenty of community cheer, the event invited customers to kick off the long weekend in support of local healthcare. Despite the gloomy weather, supporters showed up with big hearts, helping raise $1,000 for the Dartmouth General Hospital Foundation. Harvest Beer Wine Spirits extended a heartfelt thank you to its vendor partners and generous guests for turning a drizzly afternoon into something truly meaningful—proof that giving back tastes just as good as it feels.
MEET OUR YMCA YOUTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
The YMCA Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) is a volunteer group of committed community leaders who contribute their time and talents to guide our organization in achieving our mission, vision, and strategic goals as they relate to serving young people in our community. The 12-member committee, led by a Chairperson, is open to community members aged 18–29 who want to represent local youth and help make the YMCA a place of belonging. The committee members provide strategic advice to the YMCA’s Board of Directors from the perspective and lived experience of young people in our programs and living in our region.
MEMBERSHIPS AT NATURE FOLK
Downtown Dartmouth’s wellness destination, Nature Folk, offers massage therapy, infrared saunas, weekly yoga classes and retreats, and a thermal circuit. We are community-focused, inclusive, and dedicated to client care. After much feedback from our dedicated clients, we are pleased to offer new monthly membership options this winter. This means easier check-in/check out and access to our members lounge (browse from our curated bookshelf with a tea after a thermal circuit), plus special member-exclusive perks. The colder season also brings regular rotating DJ sets in our thermal circuit. Not only is supporting your health goals now more accessible, but even more fun.
PRECISION BIOLOGIC LEADS THE WAY IN HEMOPHILIA TESTING
Precision BioLogic Inc., a leading developer of hemostasis diagnostic products, is pleased to announce the expanded utility of its CRYOcheck Chromogenic Factor VIII test in anticipation of new hemophilia treatments such as Mim8, a next generation bispecific antibody for the treatment of hemophilia A. The updated test will ensure labs are ready and able to deliver accurate test results when new treatments become available.
DAYFORCE POWERPAY IS NOW SIMPLY POWERPAY
New name, same trusted service. Powerpay is now helping even more Canadian businesses thrive. Our brand evolution reflects Powerpay’s commitment to innovation and our dedication to providing Canadian small businesses with the best possible experience. Visit powerpay.ca to see Powerpay’s fresh, new look.
32nd CLASS OF LAUREATES INDUCTED IN OCTOBER
Nova Scotia Business Hall of Fame Honouring Lifetime Achievement
The Nova Scotia Business Hall of Fame Gala is the largest fundraising initiative for JA Nova Scotia. Funds raised support JA’s mission to inspire and engage Nova Scotia youth with f ree f inancial health, work readiness and entrepreneurship in-class and self-directed education
nsbusinesshalloffame.ca
During the Gala we celebrate and honour Laureates who represent incredible business visionaries in our province. Today we would like to introduce you to one of our 4 Laureates and invite you to get involved and purchase a table for the October 8 Gala th
Meet George E.M. Lewis (posthumous induction)
With a strong legacy in the Nova Scotia business community, George established himself as a business leader in the early 1900s with companies including Sheet Harbour Lumber Company, The Glencovey Shipping Company, and The Eastern Hat and Cap Company Ltd. George was active as member of First Baptist Church in Truro and supporter of various charitable organizations "He was best known, of course, in Truro, where he made his home for so long, and there he was held not only in regard but a Lewis was one who had the common touch" U
Join us on October 15th at the Halifax Convention Centre to celebrate Mike Brien, Jim Mills, Thane Stevens and George E.M. Lewis. Visit nsbusinesshalloffame.ca.
PRISM PODCAST IS LAUNCHING: A BOLD NEW PLATFORM FOR QUEER VOICES IN BUSINESS
Halifax entrepreneur Jake Smith, CEO & Founder of Beauty & Business by Jake, is launching the PRISM Podcast, co-hosted with Dalene Allen of Networking Naturally. PRISM stands for Pride, Resilience, Inclusive, Supportive Movement, and the podcast is dedicated to celebrating 2SLGBTQI+ brilliance, resilience, and entrepreneurship across Atlantic Canada and beyond. By blending authentic storytelling with practical insights, PRISM highlights the challenges and triumphs of queer entrepreneurs while offering a platform for visibility and empowerment. The show reflects Jake’s mission to prove that authenticity is not just confidence, it is strategy and that showing up boldly creates lasting impact.
GLENN MASSAD GETS CGLCC CERTIFICATION
Glenn Massad is delighted and proud to share that Glenn Massad Communications is now officially certified by the CGLCC – Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce. This certification provides unique value to his fellow members within the Halifax Chamber of Commerce who are looking for communications support that is insightful and inclusive from an expert with a diverse perspective. Glenn currently offers his communications expertise to companies, charitable organizations, and is also a guest lecturer at local universities on a variety of topics in communications including media relations and crisis communications.
HALIFAX CONVENTION CENTRE NAMED WORLD’S GREATEST
The Halifax Convention Centre has been named the “World’s Greatest Convention Centre” World’s Greatest, which airs on Bloomberg Network. Filmed on location in Halifax this past June, the episode aired in the United States on September 6 and September 13, followed by Canadian distribution online. “World’s Greatest” puts the spotlight on the venue, Halifax, and Nova Scotia, and gives viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the unique programs and features of the region’s largest meeting and convention space. Since opening in 2018, the Halifax Convention Centre has successfully hosted nearly 1,000 events, welcomed more than half a million guests, and generated an economic impact of $325M for Halifax and Nova Scotia.
BUZZBRONCO GRADUATES FROM SMU ACCESS ABILITY PROGRAM
Ghazaleh Afrahi, BuzzBronco’s cofounder, recently graduated from SMU’s Access Ability program. This business development initiative was created to support entrepreneurs in Nova Scotia in building stronger, more inclusive ventures. “It was an amazing opportunity,” says Afrahi, adding that “the experience really helped sharpen the company’s strategic focus and has really deepened our commitment to building a more inclusive digital economy.” With new tools, new perspectives, and community connections, she said she feels the company is now better equipped than ever to help organizations meet accessibility goals with confidence.
Small business spotlights
IN RECOGNITION OF SMALL BUSINESS MONTH, we are delighted to introduce you to local entrepreneurs whose passion and dedication strengthen our community every day. These businesses showcase the creativity, resilience, and innovation that drive Halifax’s small business economy. Learn more about how small businesses are leading the way in Canada’s era of economic transformation at bdc.ca/en/small-business-week. (Image Credit: The Flag Shop Nova Scotia)
A TEAM COACHING
A Team Coaching is a trusted partner in building equitable organizations through the lens of diversity, equity, and inclusion. A Team equips organizations and employees with education and strategies to recognize the importance of healthy relationships and to build more inclusive, safe work environments.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about starting a small business?
“My advice for entrepreneurs? Take advice. Don’t feel intimidated by others’ expertise—it’s an opportunity to grow. I intentionally surround myself with those who have skills I don’t. It helps me achieve more than I ever could alone. Also, not everyone starts a business from a place of abundance. The ‘why’ behind your mission might be as urgent as keeping the lights on or getting groceries. That reality is just as worthy of respect as any other reason to lead or succeed.”
Bruce DeMond Advancedsystems.ca info@advancedsystems.ca (902) 454-4742
Neil Hammerschlag atlanticsharkexp.com info@atlanticsharkexp.com (902) 943-6139
Lauren Burke burningflame.ca info@burningflame.ca
ADVANCED SYSTEMS
Advanced Systems provides rental and full-service production for conferences, conventions, meetings, awards shows, special events, and receptions in Atlantic Canada. Our inventory of updated equipment, trained staff, and competitive pricing has allowed us to create and maintain long-term working relations with many of our customers.
What brings customers back to you?
“Our flexibility and creativity. Every client and event has unique needs, and we take pride in finding solutions that fit those specific requirements. Just as importantly, we know that things don’t always go exactly as planned onsite. Our team thrives in those moments. That ability to problem-solve under pressure gives our clients confidence that, no matter what happens, their event will feel seamless and successful.”
ATLANTIC SHARK EXPEDITIONS LTD.
Atlantic Shark Expeditions provides unparalleled opportunities for the public to experience sharks through ecotourism and science. Guests join expeditions to view sharks from the boat or in water from the safety of a shark cage; scuba-certification is not required.
What is your proudest achievement as a business owner?
“My proudest achievement has been creating Atlantic Shark Expeditions, Canada’s first and only shark cage diving operation, and watching it grow into a business that combines adventure tourism with meaningful science and conservation. Seeing guests leave with a new appreciation for sharks—and knowing that our work is shifting perceptions and supporting conservation—has been incredibly rewarding.”
BURNING FLAME CANDLE COMPANY
Burning Flame Candle Company, a female-owned and operated business in Halifax, Nova Scotia, specializing in 100% premium soy wax candles known for our incredible scents and long-lasting burn. Our candles are ideal for retail, custom branding and gift-giving, emphasizing our dedication to quality and collaboration within the local community.
What is your proudest achievement as a business owner?
“Building Burning Flame has given me the chance to honour my creativity, resilience, and love for community, and to pour those pieces of myself into every candle I make. A passion for family business and a deep-rooted sense of hospitality run in my blood, shaped by generations of hardworking women in Nova Scotia who built their lives and businesses with heart and kept alive a legacy of family, hospitality, and artisanal craftsmanship.”
Dan Joseph darrellsrestaurants.com
(902) 492-2344
Matt Rorabeck
golocalquote.com
matt@golocalquote.com (902) 221-4420
Hallimah Mufutau
hallycrafts.com
hallycraftevents@yahoo.com (902) 454-6368
DARRELL’S RESTAURANTS
Opened in 1992, Darrell’s has since become a favorite stomping ground for students, local professionals, neighbors, families, first daters and all who have heard the rumblings of our fantastic food served up by one of the friendliest teams in Halifax!
What is your proudest achievement as a business owner?
“Being well established and still loved after 33 years. Taking care of my team and watching them take care of our clientele, getting to know many on a personal level. It’s about the people, relationships and loving what you do!”
GOLOCAL QUOTE
GoLocal Quote is a platform that connects consumers with trusted local service providers. Users submit a service request and receive multiple quotes from nearby businesses, making it easy to compare and choose. GoLocal Quote supports local economies while offering convenience, transparency, and competitive pricing for everyday services.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about starting a small business?
“Start with a clear purpose—solve a specific problem or fill a real need. Do your homework: research your market, understand your customers, and know the numbers to ensure your idea is viable. Keep it lean at first—test your concept with minimal resources before scaling. Build a strong network; relationships with mentors, suppliers, and customers are invaluable.”
HALLYCRAFT CAKES & EVENTS LTD
At our restaurant, we take pride in crafting dishes that cater to your exact preferences. From the sourcing of our ingredients and spices to the preparation and presentation of our meals, we pay meticulous attention to every detail. Our recipes are centered around organic and freshly sourced ingredients, ensuring the highest quality and flavour in each dish.
What is your proudest achievement as a business owner?
“HallyCraft began as a simple dream born from passion, culture, and resilience. Today, it stands as an award-winning brand that celebrates African heritage through food, events, and hospitality. My proudest achievement is not just the recognition, but the impact we have made in becoming a trusted name in Halifax. Every milestone reminds me that hard work and authenticity can transform vision into legacy.”
Since 1998, immediac has delivered more than 4,500 custom websites, web and mobile applications, and more professional web designs than any other company in Canada. immediac’s customers include the Nova Scotia Teachers Union, the Registered Nurses Professional Development, Canoe Kayak Canada, Massage Addicts, and many other well-known local businesses.
What brings customers back to you?
“We answer the phone and email! We are focused on helping our customers achieve their goals. Being local means our customers aren’t dealing with a faceless system; they get real people who know their business and care about their success. We take the time to build relationships and understand our clients.”
LUMI STUDIOS MEDIA AND PRODUCTION
Lumi Studios media + production specializes in delivering high-quality photo, video, and design work to a broad clientele that spans from local businesses to internationally acclaimed organizations including IBM and RBC. Conferences, cultural events, commercials, and corporate design: the Lumi team is ready to help you share your story!
What is your proudest achievement as a business owner?
“As an immigrant entrepreneur, my proudest achievement has been building Lumi Studios into a space where creativity thrives across cultures. Lumi Studios has become a home for other creatives like me—most of our team members are also immigrants who bring incredible talent, resilience, and global perspectives. Together, we’ve grown alongside Halifax, and it means a lot to contribute to the creative fabric of a city that welcomed us.”
MO GATO MAURITIAN DELICACIES
MO GATO is a Mauritian food business founded in 2022 by a couple from Mauritius Island. “Mo Gato” translates to “my cake” or “my treat” in Mauritian Creole! Our mission is to connect with people who share the same love for food and to showcase the rich diversity of Mauritian cuisine.
What is your proudest achievement as a business owner?
“What started humbly with our savings has grown into a dream fulfilled: sharing the flavours of Mauritius while showcasing the diverse food of our island. Each compliment on taste and quality is a tribute to our heritage. The greatest honour is carrying forward recipes I grew up with in my family’s restaurant, lovingly passed down by my mom, and adding my own touch. Every smile reminds us why we began.”
Kristen Morse naturefolk.ca
info@naturefolk.ca (902) 469-0274
Jolyn Swain nurtured.ca
jolyn@nurtured.ca (902) 405-4367
Vanessa Delorey nuyoumedispa.ca
info@nuyoumedspa.ca (902) 422-7327
NATURE FOLK WELLNESS COLLECTIVE
Nature Folk Wellness is an infrared sauna, massage therapy, and skin care studio located in downtown Dartmouth. The private sauna room features a state-of-the-art, medical grade infrared sauna and cold plunge option, offering a mini, urban nordic spa experience. Welcome to your new, favourite, urban oasis.
What brings customers back to you?
“Our ethos is care. Care for our facility, care for our clients, and care for our team. We hold a peaceful, kind container for folks who are working through challenges, need support, or just want to come add to the good energy. We believe that the collective is more than the sum of its parts and that when we come together, our vision for vitality, empathy, and health is magnified.”
NURTURED PRODUCTS FOR PARENTING
We are Atlantic Canada’s Baby Store! Visit us for maternity, gear, gifts, and baby registries. Discover thoughtful items for baby, kids, and home. From our family to yours, be nurtured!
What is your proudest achievement as a business owner?
“As Nurtured approaches 20 years in business, I’m proud of the community we’ve built together. The support we continue to receive season after season is truly humbling. The North End is such a special place on the Halifax peninsula, and it feels right that Nurtured has grown into a destination here. What I treasure most is welcoming customers into parenthood within this warm, neighbourhood setting.”
NUYOU MED SPA + LASER CLINIC
NuYou MedSpa + Laser Clinic was born with the vision of providing a powerful solution to enhance natural beauty without the need for surgery or downtime. We use our medical technology in conjunction with medical skincare cosmeceuticals, which have been designed to give you fast results in areas such as acne, hyper-pigmentation and anti-ageing.
What brings customers back to you?
“What brings customers back to me is the trust and connection I build with them. My clients know they can count on the quality of my services and the results I deliver, but more than that, it’s the bond we create. It’s not just about beauty on the outside it’s about how they feel on the inside. That emotional connection and genuine care are what keep my clients returning time and again.”
Debbie Hartlen novascotiaflagshop.com
novascotia@flagshop.com (902) 434-1695
Angela Szubielski thewinespa.ca
angela@thewinespa.ca (902) 414-7887
A. Michelle MacAdam
tidalwaveconsulting.ca
michelle@tidalwaveconsulting.ca (902) 401-7388
THE FLAG SHOP NOVA SCOTIA
Located at the convenient central location at 115 Main Street, Dartmouth, The Flag Shop Nova Scotia is the leading flag and banner store in Atlantic Canada providing the best products and services to all our customers. Having in-house production enables us to provide “Made-in NS” products and meet our customers’ deadlines!
What is your proudest achievement as a business owner?
“We have had many proud accomplishments over our 32 years of business! During those years, we have provided employment to craftspeople, students, and immigrants, recognizing their abilities and the unique challenges they may face. We survived a pandemic and the closure of the franchisor head office. We have been able to adjust to changes in the industry and continue our successful growth.”
THE WINE SPA
Relaxation meets indulgence in the most delightful way at Halifax’s only social spa experience. Offering manicures, pedicures, makeup and hair services, paired with wine and unforgettable times, the Wine Spa is the perfect place to celebrate birthdays and weddings or host a corporate event. Come enjoy The Wine Spa experience!
What advice would you give to someone thinking about starting a small business?
“Small business ownership is undeniably hard work—but it’s deeply rewarding when you’re passionate about what you do. Choose an enterprise that energizes you. That joy will sustain you through challenges, fuel innovation, and inspire the level of service that turns customers into loyal guests.”
TIDAL WAVE CONSULTING
Having guided 15 years of business transformation across industries, I pull from agile strategies, process optimization, change management, and psychological insights to drive tangible growth and achieve strategic value. My passion lies in helping teams not just survive change but thrive in it. Let’s explore your organization’s path forward.
What is your proudest achievement as a business owner?
“My proudest achievement as a business owner is earning a reputation as a trusted advisor across diverse industries and situations. I’ve built long-term relationships rooted in trust, consistency, and genuine partnership. Clients rely on my ability to bring a strong strategic lens—seeing the forest for the trees—while also providing practical, tailored support. This balance allows me to guide them through complex challenges with clarity and confidence.”
Science meets wellness
Dr. Denise K. Daley and Nasore Personal Wellness By Emily Bednarz
For Dr. Denise K. Daley, science has always been a part of daily life. Her path from academic research to entrepreneurship is rooted in that seamless connection between knowledge and practice. “I have always loved being outdoors and cooking, and from early in high school, I was fascinated by science, especially the human body and the environment,” she says.
That early passion grew into a career in biochemistry and natural products research, where she earned a BSc in Biotechnology, Botany, Human Nutrition, and a PhD in Biochemistry. Her doctoral work validated the traditional use of medicinal plants, particularly Eucalyptus camaldulensis, by isolating and studying its bioactive compounds and comparing their effects to established medications like metformin and captopril.
“The results were phenomenal, and with a personal connection—my maternal grandmother had diabetes and my paternal grandmother had hypertension—I knew this work could not remain in the lab and libraries,” says Dr. Daley. That realization led her into nutraceutical and functional food research, where she earned a U.S. patent and multiple awards, including Young Scientist of the Year.
Dr. Daley’s drive to translate science into practical solutions eventually sparked the creation of Nasore Personal Wellness, her Halifax-based business focused on evidence-based herbal tea blends, nutrition, and personalized wellness strategies. “Wellness is deeply personal, but it also significantly impacts the workforce. When people are well, companies thrive,” she says.
Through Nasore—an acronym for “Natural, Soothing and Relaxing”—Dr. Daley develops programs for individuals and organizations that go beyond surface-level perks. “Ultimately, it is about embedding wellness into the DNA of the workplace, not treating it as an afterthought,” she says.
Her approach blends herbal medicine, nutrition, and science into what she calls a proactive mindset. “I often explain
it like tending a garden,” she says. “You do not wait until the soil is depleted and the plants are dying to add water or nutrients. You cultivate consistently so the environment thrives.”
That philosophy extends beyond the workplace to community empowerment, especially for immigrant and diverse populations in Nova Scotia. “Food security is not just about having enough to eat, it is about knowing how to use what you have in healthy, culturally meaningful ways,” she says.
Teaching people to see their kitchens and gardens as wellness pharmacies not only strengthens health but also preserves cultural knowledge. “When spider webs unite, they can tie up a lion,” says Dr. Daley. “That is the power of
unity, coming together to create stronger families, healthier workforces, and more resilient economies.”
Looking ahead, Dr. Daley envisions Nasore as a regional leader in sustainable wellness, offering tailored programs and products that bridge science and culture. “My hope is that our work contributes to healthier individuals, stronger communities, and more resilient workplaces, because when wellness is sustainable, everyone benefits,” she says. “This is my dream.”
To learn more about Nasore Personal Wellness, follow Dr. Daley on Instagram and LinkedIn at @drdenisedaley and visit: nasorewellness.ca
The Freedom Foundation of Nova Scotia
Where recovery takes root
FOLISHA ELLIOTT OFFICE MANAGER FREEDOM FOUNDATION
Article included on behalf of Joanne Bernard, Chair of the Halifax Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.
On a quiet street in north-end Dartmouth, nestled among simple homes, modest apartments, schools, and community parks, sits an unassuming, well-kept house that is home to a unique organization.
Freedom Foundation of Nova Scotia is a not-for-profit committed to creating a safe, supportive environment where recovery can take root—where men living with addictions are given the tools to rebuild their lives, rediscover self-worth, and move forward with dignity and hope.
Freedom Foundation was founded in 1988 by Joe Gibson (current Executive Director) and a group of dedicated men and women determined to make a difference. In 1989, guided by a volunteer board of directors, the Foundation opened its first transition home to welcome men aged 19 and older who were struggling with alcoholism.
Over time, the mandate expanded to support men facing challenges with drugs, gambling, mental health concerns, and often multiple addictions at once. In 2018, the Foundation purchased
a second home, adding a fourth phase to the program. This expansion helped meet the growing need for affordable housing for residents who were working but unable to manage the high cost of market rent.
Since opening its doors, the Foundation has supported more than 1,200 men. Many complete all phases of the program—each designed to strengthen life skills, build personal accountability, and foster independence. The average stay ranges from six to eighteen months, offering both the time and structure needed for meaningful recovery.
Nestled in the heart of Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, the Freedom Foundation is more than a house—it is a place of belonging. With thirteen beds that are rarely empty, men from all walks of life arrive carrying both the weight of addiction and the hope for change. What
they discover is not only shelter, but also a sense of family. Around the table, meals are shared, stories exchanged, and trust begins to grow.
Residents receive support in the details that matter most: a bus pass for appointments, a modest allowance for personal needs, necessary medications, and help replacing lost identification. These simple yet essential gestures remind each man that he matters.
Often operating at ninety to ninety-five percent capacity, the Foundation ensures that until residents secure their own income or assistance, their needs are met. For many, this is the first real home they have known in years. For all, it is a place where hope is renewed, dignity is restored, and the journey toward a brighter tomorrow truly begins.
Learn more about Freedom Foundation at: freedomfoundation.ca
Above: Joe Gibson is the Executive Director of Freedom Foundation, which operates two transition homes in Dartmouth for men recovering from addictions.
From myths to measurable results
What small businesses need to know about prevention, recovery, and support from WCB Nova Scotia
SUBMITTED ON BEHALF OF THE WORKERS’ COMPENSATION BOARD OF NOVA SCOTIA
Small Business Week is a time to celebrate the entrepreneurs, innovators, and hard-working teams that keep our province moving forward. An important part of that success is keeping employees safe and knowing what to do when workplace injuries occur.
WCB Nova Scotia works with small business owners every day to make prevention and return-to-work easier to understand, simple to navigate, and more effective for everyone.
And the results speak for themselves: with workplace injuries at an alltime low and more than 75% of injured workers returning to work within 90 days, we’re seeing the best outcome in years thanks to the collective accountability of WCB alongside Nova Scotia’s employers, workers, and system partners.
“Small businesses may not have dedicated safety staff or large budgets for training,” says Tracey Newman, Vice President, Prevention and Employer Engagement, Business Excellence. “But prevention is often about small, consistent actions—regular safety talks, a culture where employees feel comfortable reporting hazards, and simple, clear processes. These are achievable in every workplace, no matter the size.”
Still, myths about workplace injury, insurance, and return-to-work can make the process seem more daunting than it really is. Let’s set the record straight.
Myth: “Injured workers need to be fully healed before they come back.”
Fact: Most people recover faster when they stay connected to work – even with modified duties or reduced hours. “That connection to the team, the routine, and the sense of purpose plays a huge role in speeding recovery,” says Matt Ross, Director, Employer Performance.
Fact: Modified duties can be as simple as lighter tasks, shorter shifts, or workfrom-home options. It’s about finding what’s safe and possible—not perfect.
Myth: “If someone gets hurt, there’s nothing we can do until they return.”
Fact: Staying in touch, checking in, and involving the worker in the returnto-work plan can make the process smoother and help prevent long-term absence.
Myth: “Injury prevention is too expensive for small businesses.”
Fact: Many prevention measures are lowcost, like clear walkways, proper training, and good communication, and often save money by avoiding costly claims.
Myth: “Return-to-work programs are complicated and for big companies only.”
Fact: Even small businesses can have a simple plan outlining who to call, how to modify work, and how to communicate.
Myth: “Having people off work always costs you money.”
Fact: The real costs often come from employees being away for extended periods. Helping them return safely—even in a modified role—keeps productivity up, reduces hiring and training expenses, and can help keep insurance premiums stable.
Myth: “Workplace injury coverage is for big businesses, not a small shop like mine.”
Fact: In Nova Scotia, many small businesses are required to have workplace injury coverage—and for good reason. It protects both workers and employers, providing wage replacement, medical support, and guidance on return-to-work. It’s a safety net that helps businesses stay on track after an incident.
Partnering with small businesses for success
WCB Nova Scotia’s digital-first approach makes it even easier for small businesses to access help—from registering a claim to downloading a prevention checklist or return-to-work toolkit. Their redesigned website offers quick videos, webinars, and industry-specific resources, all designed for busy workplaces.
“We want to make it as easy as possible for small businesses to integrate safety and return-to-work into their day-to-day,” says Newman. “That means offering resources in formats that work for busy people—quick, clear, and available when you need them.”
While WCB has prioritized making online information and resources accessible, they also have dedicated teams providing personalized support for both workers and employers. Combined, this approach allows WCB to serve as a true partner, ensuring that employers aren’t alone when it comes to managing workplace safety and recovery.
“Our goal is to make prevention and return-to-work part of everyday business operations in a way that feels natural, rather than an added burden,” says Ross. “When we do that, we keep more Nova Scotians working, reduce costs for employers, and strengthen our communities.”
Connect with members of the WCB Prevention and Employer Engagement team anytime by emailing employer.engagement@wcb.ns.ca
For prevention tips, return-to-work resources, and more, visit wcb.ns.ca
SmartBusiness, smart solutions
Helping HRM businesses grow and succeed
Building business resilience
JASON GUIDRY DIRECTOR, TRADE & INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS HALIFAX PARTNERSHIP
In today’s unpredictable economic climate, resilience isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a business imperative. From global trade tensions to productivity challenges, Halifax businesses are navigating a landscape that demands agility, foresight, and support.
That’s where Halifax Partnership’s SmartBusiness program steps in, serving as a vital partner for business, delivering the guidance, resources, and connections needed to not only weather uncertainty but to drive growth and success.
One-on-one support across HRM
Whether you’re a rural entrepreneur or an urban innovator, finding the right advice can make all the difference as your company grows. SmartBusiness is a support system designed for Halifax businesses, providing practical support in areas that matter most to business owners.
Through personalized, one-on-one engagement, the SmartBusiness team connects businesses across HRM to the resources, expertise, and networks needed to overcome challenges and seize opportunities.
This includes guidance on how to scale up operations, boost productivity and increase efficiency. Business owners can also receive assistance in exploring new markets, diversifying their supply chains and partnerships, and navigating the often-complex world of government procurement. The SmartBusiness team works closely with businesses to identify their specific support needs and directly connect them with the right experts. Our Action Team consists of senior-level, decision-ready professionals equipped to drive meaningful outcomes.
Recent years have underscored the importance of being prepared. From wildfires and floods to pandemic-related disruptions, Halifax businesses have faced unprecedented challenges. In response, Halifax Partnership developed a Business Continuity Toolkit, a step-bystep guide that helps companies assess risks, safeguard their operations, and bounce back faster.
The toolkit guides businesses through mapping their most critical processes and resources, conducting thorough risk assessments, and developing strategies to ensure continuity and recovery when challenges arise. It also covers how to train staff and test response plans, ensuring teams are confident and prepared implementing these plans. This proactive approach ensures businesses aren’t just reacting to crises but are ready for them.
Tackling the productivity puzzle
Nova Scotia ranks among the lowest in North America in terms of GDP per capita and labour productivity, which impacts our economy, standard of living, and future growth. Recognizing this, Halifax Partnership launched The Productivity Puzzle initiative to spark dialogue and drive action through events, research, and collaboration with private, public and post-secondary leaders.
The SmartBusiness team is helping SMEs overcome productivity challenges by connecting them with training, funding, and resources designed to streamline operations and support the adoption of new technologies. The Partnership’s Virtual Adviser Program, powered by SeasonedPros, connects local businesses with experienced professionals for one-on-one guidance on company-specific issues. In partnership with Google Canada and Digital Nova Scotia, small and medium-sized businesses can also
Halifax Partnership’s SmartBusiness team— Jason Guidry, Asma Lokhandwala, Minder Singh and Lindsay Morley—helps local businesses overcome challenges and drive development and growth opportunities.
access fully funded scholarships to the Google Prompting Essentials course, helping them tap into the power of AI to streamline operations and drive innovation.
Navigating trade disruptions
With the recent Canada-U.S. trade dispute, businesses in HRM are feeling the pressure. Through the SmartBusiness program, companies can diversify supply chains, explore new markets, and mitigate risks. As the only G7 country with free trade agreements with all six other member countries, Canada offers vast opportunities for global trade and business expansion. The SmartBusiness team ensures local SMEs are not only well-positioned to capitalize on these opportunities but are fully supported in leveraging trade missions and international partnerships.
Easy access to resources
For businesses seeking support, the SmartBusiness Resource Directory offers a wealth of resources. From funding programs to export development and workforce training, this curated hub connects businesses to local organizations dedicated to fostering development and growth. Connect with the SmartBusiness team at: smartbusinessprogram.com
Then and now
The Halifax Chamber story
NICK CUNNINGHAM SENIOR POLICY ANALYST HALIFAX CHAMBER
The Halifax Chamber of Commerce has a long and proud history as one of North America’s oldest business organizations. For generations, we’ve served as the voice of the local business community in Halifax, but what did that look like hundreds of years ago? What were the issues that shaped our early advocacy and how did the business leaders of the past lay the groundwork for the thriving community we see today?
Halifax’s early economy: Good times, bad times
Following the American Revolution (1765-1783), Halifax’s merchants were working to transform the city into a commercial hub, leading to the formation of the Halifax Committee of Trade, Canada’s first. Many were Loyalist refugees who arrived after the American Revolution, bringing with them trade connections and ambitious ideas. Despite Halifax’s geographic challenges (no major rivers connecting to interior markets), merchants positioned the city as a key gateway to the Atlantic.
During wartime, the Napoleonic wars and the war of 1812, these merchants prospered and believed that their economic gains could be sustained in peacetime through strong protectionist policies and imperial support.
However, after the wars, optimism
quickly faded. The Treaty of Ghent (1815) followed by British agreements with France and the U.S. (including the 1818 Anglo-American convention) weakened Halifax’s position.
These setbacks overlapped with a severe postwar recession in Halifax marked by falling exports and prices, unemployment, credit shortages, and crop failures. As economic conditions worsened, some residents emigrated to the U.S. and calls even rose for Nova Scotia’s annexation to America.
Halifax Chamber of Commerce: Early advocacy
A core of the Halifax entrepreneurs persisted however and in 1822, when conditions were at their worst, reformed the original Halifax Council of Trade into the Halifax Chamber of Commerce, a new merchant organization intended to advocate for measures designed to stimulate economic recovery.
Halifax’s entrepreneurs through the Chamber of Commerce pressed for policies to enhance their competitive positions. Although the ideas were not new, their demands in the early 1820s were more comprehensive than ever before.
In the early 1820s, the Halifax Chamber of Commerce intensified its efforts to confront American commercial dominance while successfully advocating for:
• International trade opportunities: particularly the right to trade directly with foreign Europe.
• Expanded import access: which improved trade efficiency and competitiveness by supporting the fisheries and ensuring fully loaded, profitable voyages.
• Establishment of imperial bonded warehouses: which allowed foreign goods to be stored duty-free, improving flexibility and efficiency in trade.
Additionally, the Halifax Chamber of Commerce actively advocated both colonial and imperial authorities to
support economic development and infrastructure improvements. Their advocacy efforts included:
• Simplifying customs regulations: to ease transshipment of goods through Halifax to other parts of British America.
• Petitioning for financial assistance: to build the Shubenacadie Canal, connecting Halifax with the Bay of Fundy.
• Pushing for limited-liability bank in Halifax: aimed at retaining investment capital and expanding access to commercial credit.
Chamber success: Post-war growth
The reforms of 1825, which included many of positions mentioned above, did have a positive impact on Halifax trade, leading to a growth in trade with foreign Europe and South America. One local editor declared that ‘Halifax had been on the eve of destruction. This has come just in time to save it from ruin’.
Afte a decade of postwar commercial stagnation, the port had finally begun to be drawn into a general economic boom in Britain and America. “By the late 1820s the bustle on the Halifax waterfront was such as to inspire a mood of expansionist optimism among local merchants” (Sutherland, 1978).
Today’s Chamber: Modern advocacy
200 years later, the Halifax Chamber of Commerce continues to advocate on very similar issues like reducing red tape, improving infrastructure to support the efficient movements of goods, improving access to financing and capital, and enhancing trade opportunities. Although the global landscape of business and government has changed, the Chamber’s core mission remains focused on promoting a competitive and resilient economy through strong advocacy. ■
How to lead by letting go
Centering your team and becoming “The Irrelevant Leader”
PHIL JEWELL CREATOR THE IRRELEVANT LEADER FOUNDER IMPACT LEADERSHIP
Want to know how effective you are as a business leader? Then ask yourself this question: How well can the team/business I lead keep moving forward when I’m not there?
The concept of the irrelevant leader may sound counterintuitive at first. After all, leaders and business owners are the driving force behind a team’s and a business’s success. Yet true leadership is understanding that the team should be the centre, not the leader. It’s about empowering, trusting, and delegating so that the team and business can succeed when the leader isn’t there.
Becoming an irrelevant leader means we can break free from some, if not most, of the daily operational issues, creating space for growth, innovation, and autonomy of the team and the business we lead. This frees us up to apply strategic leadership and ultimately drives greater success for our organization/ business.
This irrelevant leader mindset is how I led in combat operations, how I led in my career after the military, and it’s how I lead my small business now. It’s even how I parent my kids, where the concepts and principles are equally applicable.
It was January 2008, and I found myself on a flight home from Afghanistan for a period of leave away from my combat leader role. I was resting and reconnecting with my family, yet my mind was consumed with anxiety. One of the most significant operations of our deployment was about to unfold, and I wouldn’t be there to lead my team of 40 soldiers through it. I worried about how they would manage without me.
Two weeks later when I returned to Helmand Province and stepped off the helicopter, I immediately saw the success they’d had. They’d built the combat
bridge and established the base as planned. The mission had been executed flawlessly—without me, their leader.
It’s shameful to admit, but I didn’t feel the pride and contentment I’d expected. Instead, I felt envy that I hadn’t been part of the mission, that someone else had led the team. It was envy and a realization that, as much as I’d thought I was important to the functioning of the team, in fact, I wasn’t. I was irrelevant to the success and the effectiveness of the team I’d been training with and leading for the previous eighteen months. And this was exactly what was supposed to happen. It was exactly what I’d been trained to do, to make sure the team I led could succeed without me.
The ultimate leadership paradox
As humans, we are biologically wired to seek relevance and feel needed—a trait rooted in our evolutionary need for survival and belonging. Yet, the irrelevant leader mindset challenges this instinct and proves that true leadership
comes from empowering others to excel without constant guidance. Ultimately, it makes the leader more valuable by stepping back.
Becoming an irrelevant leader doesn’t mean abandoning your team. It means leading so effectively that your presence is no longer critical for success. It’s about developing people to operate at their highest potential, with or without you. And ironically, the less relevant I have always become to my team’s daily successes, the more valuable I have become to the organization am I part of, as I’m able to step back from the daily, operational issues and apply strategic leadership—to look ahead and see what needs to happen to make sure we’re still moving in the direction of our vision. Because in the end, the best leaders are the ones who make themselves irrelevant—and that’s exactly why their impact lasts.
Learn more about Phil Jewell and his book The Irrelevant Leader at: theirrelevantleader.com
Becoming an irrelevant leader “means leading so effectively that your presence is no longer critical for success,” says Phil Jewell.
Thriving in a BANI world
How a champion mindset helps leaders navigate uncertainty
ANN-MARIE FLINN PRESIDENT AND FOUNDER CHAMPION CHANGE AGENCY
Let’s talk about BANI: an acronym coined by futurist Jamais Cascio that captures today’s volatile landscape. It describes a world that’s Brittle (systems snap under pressure), Anxious (teams overwhelmed by uncertainty), NonLinear (small shifts create massive ripples), and Incomprehensible (problems defy easy answers). Sound familiar?
Here’s the hard truth: you can’t “BANI-proof” your business. But you can build resilience by fostering a Champion Mindset- one that sees chaos as a catalyst, not a crisis.
“Perfect” is the enemy of progress
I once asked CEOs: “When was the last time clinging to perfectionism sparked real innovation?” Silence fell-until one leader laughed: “Our five-year plan became irrelevant in five months. We’re still unlearning that ‘perfect’ equals ‘safe.’”
BANI demands flexibility. A Champion Mindset swaps “flawless execution” for intelligent experimentation, asking “What can we learn?” instead of “Who messed up?”
Three vital
questions to navigate the storm
When coaching leaders, I use Three Vital Questions (3VQ) to cut through the noise:
1. Where are you putting your focus? Brittle systems tempt us to obsess over cracks. Champions ask: “What future are we building?” This shift unlocks creativity, like trading a magnifying glass for a telescope.
2. How are you relating? Anxiety spreads faster than gossip. Champions build psychological safety-where teams say “I’m stuck”
without fear. Empathy becomes the glue that turns chaos into collective problem-solving.
3. What actions are you taking? Nonlinear problems need non-linear solutions. Champions take microsteps: test, learn, pivot. They know “good enough today” beats “perfect tomorrow.”
Expansive thinking: Where “what if?” beats “why not?”
Imagine AI not as a threat, but as a teammate. One client transformed their workflow by asking: “How can AI free our humans to dream bigger?” They prototyped in weeks, not months-turning disruption into a playground.
Building a culture that dances with chaos
Resilience isn’t about solo heroes; it’s about teams pulling together. Leaders
who say “I don’t know” create space for innovation. Teams that celebrate intelligent failures are those that teach and build the muscle to adapt and grow.
Align around a North Star: A why so clear that even when the path vanishes, the direction remains steady.
The takeaway
BANI isn’t a phase; it’s the new rhythm. Leaders who cling to perfectionism will snap. Those who embrace a Champion Mindset, grounded in curiosity, collaboration, and courage, will bend, adapt, and thrive.
So, when disruption comes knocking, will you bar the door or swing it wide and say, “Let’s dance?”
Learn more about Champion Change Agency at: changechamp.ca
“Teams that celebrate intelligent failures are those that teach and build the muscle to adapt and grow,” says Ann-Marie Flinn, President and Founder of Champion Change Agency.
Top ten tax saving tips
Key tax optimization techniques for small and medium businesses
SUNDEEP CHOPRA, CPA DIRECTOR
WESTERN CPA INC DISCOVER HALIFAX
Tax savings represent a critical opportunity for small and medium-sized businesses to improve cash flow and reinvest in growth initiatives. With constantly evolving tax regulations and compliance requirements, many business owners miss valuable deductions and strategies that could significantly impact their bottom line.
Understanding key tax optimization techniques can help businesses retain more of their hard-earned revenue while remaining compliant with Canadian tax laws.
1. Choose the right structure for your business.
Structure your business in a way to best support your business goals (i.e. sole proprietorship, partnership, and corporation). Get advice from an accountant who specializes in corporate structures to help you make the best decision for your long-term success.
2. Deploy cloud-based software for bookkeeping and payroll.
Cloud-based software keeps complete records online for years to come and makes information easily accessible in case of CRA audit. Cloud-based payroll software allows you to pay employees through direct deposit and pay the CRA automatically, which reduces the risk of missing payment deadline and penalties.
3. Hire your family members.
Whether you carry on your business personally or through a corporation, you should consider paying a reasonable salary to your spouse or children. Paying a salary to a spouse or child who pays tax at a lower rate than you can create net tax savings.
4. Deduct home office expenses.
Some entrepreneurs normally spend a good amount of time working from home or without any office location. An accountant can help you to claim these home office expenses and save on taxes.
5. File tax returns on time.
Stay organized and file your taxes accurately and on time. This will help you avoid the 5% late filing penalty, last-minute filing rush, and maintain good standing with the CRA.
6. Pay CRA taxes in instalments throughout the year and amount due on time.
If required, paying CRA in a monthly instalment may help avoid penalties and interest charges. It also avoids stress of paying large amount at the last minute.
7. Claim research and development expenses.
If you are involved in a product or
service that qualifies for R&D credit, you should claim this credit (worth between 15% and 35% of your qualified expenditures). If you have excess investment tax credits, you might qualify for a refund. They can also be carried back three years or forward 20 years.
8. Consider moving to the quick method of HST filing.
The quick method is an efficient way to pay lower HST without keeping extensive records. The quick method is normally optimal for service providers who charge HST to customers but do not have many expenses with HST.
9. Hire a tax professional.
Tax planning and strategy is a special skill set. Do not file your own corporate taxes unless you are a tax expert or if your business is inactive and you are filing a zero return.
10. Get involved in your tax filing.
Spend time with a tax planner to strategize and help you understand the credit claimed, Uncertain Tax Position (if applicable), and other items on your return.
For a free consultation with our expert team, please get in touch with us at info@ westerncpa.ca or visit our website at: WesternCPA.ca
“Keep your nose down... and don’t quit”
Highwayman Restaurant Founder Michael Hopper shares how Futurpreneur supported his business growth
DAVID EISNOR REGIONAL TEAM LEAD, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, ATLANTIC / NATIONAL TEAM LEAD - DEI FUTURPRENEUR
What’s the secret to running one of Halifax’s most beloved restaurants, receiving national recognition in Air Canada’s EnRoute Magazine, and making it through a global pandemic and stormy economy? Young entrepreneur Michael Hopper will tell you—it’s not giving up.
Thanks to pop culture and popular series like “The Bear” there are many misconceptions about running a restaurant and what goes on behind the scenes in the kitchen. Many have aspired to one day open their own restaurant or bar, and some have been successful, while many others have tried, failed, and don’t want to talk about it.
“You’re managing a team and you know—you have a lot of employees with their own aspirations of opening their own bar. It’s not for everyone.”
For Michael, co-owner of Highwayman Restaurant & Bar in Halifax, Nova Scotia, giving up was never an option. Even when a global pandemic hit in 2020 and forced every restaurant in the HRM to shut their doors, they were quick to come up with a solution.
“When we had to close the dining room and bar, we quickly pivoted to offer takeout. My business partner, Adam and I, not only ran the business but we managed the takeout, we cooked the food, we delivered the food. We learned how to bake bread and like everyone else in 2020—dove into sourdough. We made money and we were able to continue to pay our rent the entire time. It’s a true testament to not sitting around and waiting for someone to solve the problem for
you. That’s entrepreneurship.”
But Michael added, you can’t do it alone. “We wouldn’t be here without Futurpreneur. It’s hard to open a business when you don’t have a ton of money. Futurpreneur doesn’t just help you out financially—they put you through the paces, and they push you to really learn about your business. We all daydream and create businesses in our head, but Futurpreneur actually makes you look into if it will work. And that makes a huge difference in the outcome of your business.”
Futurpreneur is a national, nonprofit organization that provides loans with mentorship and resources to diverse entrepreneurs, ages 18-39, who are looking to start, buy or grow their businesses in Canada. The organization helps diverse young founders reach their startup goals and provide bilingual
(English and French) supports and resources to empower business owners on their entrepreneurial journeys. His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs? “If you want to start a business, do the work. Ask questions to people whose opinions you respect. Don’t pretend to know everything. Surround yourself with like-minded, motivated people. There will be plenty of tough moments in between the good moments. Keep your nose down as long as you can and don’t quit.”
Learn how Futurpreneur can help you start, buy, or grow a business, anywhere in Canada. Join Michael and find out about Futurpreneur’s loan (up to $75,000), mentorship, and resources. Get started at: futurpreneur.ca/en/offering/ core-startup
HIGHWAYMAN RESTAURANT & BAR
Learning and loving it!
WE ARE COLLABORATORS
Dedicated to inspiring student exploration!
We have over 50 years’ experience in inquiry-based, integrated studies. Together, we build a foundation for critical thinking, cross-curricular connections, and meaningful action — from Pre-Primary through Grade 9 and beyond. Discover the difference. Embrace the possibilities.
If
At White Point, we understand the uniqueness of small businesses – because that’s how we started out.
Ask any small business owner, and they’ll tell you size doesn’t really matter when it comes to rolling up your sleeves and getting things done. What matters to us is offering top-notch experiences for everyone looking to regroup and revitalize their team at the Beach. Our new Executive Meetings Package takes our popular Great Day Package and cranks it up a notch or two with thought (and sweat) inducing activities, themed breaks, and details that soften a boardroom table – like local Saltwater Taffy and Nova Scotia Tartan runners. In the big scheme of things, we find it’s that little things that make a difference. A smile. A wicked good Charcuterie Board by the evening bonfire. And, branded pens and paper for important notes... and doodling. Contact Anne@whitepoint.com for details on all of our Meeting options. We also encourage families to tag along and take advantage of our recreational facilities –inside and out – because spending time with those who matter most – is no small thing.
