Startup Canada

Joey Dolls is dedicated to celebrating Asian cultures through inclusive play. Samantha Ong is the Founder and in this episode we discuss creating culturally representative dolls, the challenges of manufacturing and the growth of her business since it’s launch in 2023.

Justin DiBernardi, is the Co-Founder of El&Elle, a Toronto-based jewelry retailer. This conversation explores the importance of listening to customers, the unique qualities of moissanite, and the brand’s commitment to fair pricing and inclusivity.

Jon Lomow is the Founder and CEO of Fieldless Farms, a company revolutionizing agriculture by growing crops indoors without fields. Jon discusses the challenges and opportunities in the Canadian food sector, emphasizing the importance of food sovereignty and the role of technology in modern farming.

In this episode of the Startup Canada podcast, Braden Haley, of Summit Dogwear, shares his journey from overcoming personal adversity to building a successful pet product company. He emphasizes the importance of starting and being ready to pivot, the concept of conscious capitalism, and the significance of creating a brand story that resonates with customers

In this Startup Canada Podcast episode, Zachariah Thomas shares his journey from being a pro hockey player to starting a company that aims to disrupt the expensive hockey equipment market.

In this conversation, Colum Connolly and Elizabeth Murphy from Bloom Funding discuss their journey in helping businesses and nonprofits secure funding while emphasizing sustainability and community impact. They share insights on future-proofing businesses, the importance of empathy in funding, and how to articulate non-financial value.

Check out our 2SLGBTQIA+ Resource Guide, proudly supported by Wealthy Unicorn.

In this conversation, Raegan Swanson, the Executive Director of The ArQuives, discusses the multifaceted responsibilities of leading an archive dedicated to queer and trans histories. Raegan also highlights the role of archives in combating misinformation and preserving the stories of marginalized communities.

Check out our 2SLGBTQIA+ Resource Guide, proudly supported by Wealthy Unicorn.

In this episode, we speak with Rae Hill (they/them), Founder and Owner of Origami Customs, a custom-made swimwear and intimates brand designed for all bodies. From humble beginnings sewing swimsuits for scuba divers in Central America to building a beloved, community-driven brand in Canada, Rae shares their powerful journey of designing with intention.

Check out our 2SLGBTQIA+ Resource Guide, proudly supported by Wealthy Unicorn.

In this conversation, Dr. Caley Shukalek  highlights the challenges of providing quality care while scaling a business, the role of healthcare providers in HIV prevention, and the significance of Pride Month as both a celebration and a call for action. Dr. Shukalek also outlines the various services offered by PurposeMed, including Freddie for sexual health, Frida for mental health, and Foria for gender-affirming care, showcasing the company’s commitment to inclusivity and patient-centered care.

Check out our 2SLGBTQIA+ Resource Guide, proudly supported by Wealthy Unicorn.

In this episode, we interview Ben Waldman, Founder of Gander, a new social media platform that is Canadian. This conversation explores the importance of digital sovereignty for Canada, the entrepreneurial spirit in the country, and the innovative features that Gander aims to implement to create a safe and enjoyable online environment.