Finalists chosen in Leeds Grenville Greatest Entrepreneur competition

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Six local businesses have been selected as the finalists for the first-ever Leeds Grenville’s Greatest Entrepreneur competition.

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Launched this year by the 1000 Islands Community Development Corporation and Community Futures Grenville, the competition drew 26 applications from across the region.

Now, six entrepreneurs have risen to the top and will advance to the live Pitch Gala.

This is where they’ll share their stories and compete for two grand prizes, with each offering $10,000 in cash and over $10,000 in business services.

One winner will be awarded within the 1000 Islands CDC service area and one within the CF Grenville service area.

“It’s been amazing to see the creativity and courage of so many entrepreneurs stepping forward in this first year,” said CF Grenville executive director Katie Nolan. “Every single applicant should be proud. This competition celebrates our finalists, as well as the entrepreneurial heart of Leeds and Grenville.”

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The six finalists were chosen through a competitive selection process and now have a shot at winning the title of the area’s greatest entrepreneur in a strong field of candidates.

Curran Reading Corner is Leeds and Grenville’s only community-based literacy centre specializing in reading intervention and dyslexia support with proven reading success for all ages, contest organizers said.

Gan Fitness Centre is a fitness hub that promotes health, strength, and community for people of all ages and abilities. 

GreenVeil Packaging is a sustainable clean tech startup developing ultrabiodegradable and antimicrobial materials made from locally sourced minerals and wood by-products for food packaging and agricultural applications.

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Monday Nutrition is a health food store and wellness hub in Spencerville that offers nutritious food and community programs that support healthy living.

Tempo Drive Music Studio is a music school offering piano and other instrument lessons for all ages, encouraging creativity and performance skills.

And QueenCare is a wellness organization that supports women and families from pregnancy through postpartum with education and hands-on care.

“These six finalists represent the bold ideas, hard work, and community spirit that make Leeds Grenville such a dynamic place to do business,” said Trish McNamara, executive director of the 1000 Islands Community Development Corporation. “The energy and innovation in this region are incredible. Every applicant brought something inspiring to the table.”

The Pitch Gala will take place on Jan. 28, at Prescott Town Hall and will be a ticketed event open to all who wish to attend. 

Details and registration for the event will be available in the coming weeks.

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