2025 Clients

Tell us about yourself. 

My name is Katia Louzada. I’m Brazilian and have lived in Canada for seven years. I am a pharmacist by training, but I decided to change my path and follow my passion for gastronomy. I graduated with a degree in Culinary Management from Fanshawe College, and throughout this journey, I had the opportunity to experience diverse gastronomic experiences in various countries. 

Tell us about your business.

Foodie by Katia Louzada was founded in September 2023 to bring people together around the table, promote interpersonal connections, and create unforgettable gastronomic moments. With a passion for cooking and a desire to transform every meal into a unique experience, Foodie offers various services to meet the needs of different occasions.   

From gourmet gifts to celebrate special moments to meal-prepping services for those seeking convenience without sacrificing flavour, Foodie is dedicated to delivering pleasure and taste in every detail. It also caters for social and corporate events, creating personalized menus that delight palates and make any event more sophisticated and memorable.   

The goal of Foodie is to provide gastronomic experiences that go beyond food, creating a true celebration of life and human connections. Every dish prepared is thoughtfully crafted with care, quality, and dedication, making gastronomy an art capable of uniting and moving people. 

What services/programs have you utilized at the London Small Business Centre, and how have they helped your business?  

The support from Small Centre Business has been essential in driving the growth of Foodie by Katia Louzada. The training and resources provided by the Starter Company Plus program have significantly boosted the company, offering valuable knowledge and essential tools for business development and growth.   

Through the program, it has been possible to improve Foodie’s management, strengthen the company’s structure, and enhance marketing and customer service strategies. The specialized support and networking with other entrepreneurs have been crucial in identifying new opportunities and overcoming challenges. Thanks to this support, Foodie is better prepared to grow sustainably and reach new heights, always committed to providing unique and memorable gastronomic experiences.  

How have your business grown since SBC involvement?   

Foodie by Katia Louzada has experienced significant growth since I connected with Small Centre Business. The support and resources provided by the program have allowed me to engage more securely and strategically in the business world. With the guidance I received, I’ve been able to understand better the fundamental principles of entrepreneurship, which have been crucial to the success of my company. For example, comparing April 2024 and 2025, our sales increased by 81%.  

The training and workshops have provided me with a clearer understanding of how to manage and expand the business efficiently. They have also enhanced my skills in areas such as financial management, marketing, and strategy development. This continuous learning has given me the confidence to make more assertive decisions, driving Foodie’s growth and allowing it to stand out in the market. 

What led you to start this business? Was there something that drew (or pushed) you into being an entrepreneur?   

The passion for the art of gastronomy, which connects people, inspired me to create Foodie. Believing in the power of food as a bond that brings people together, creates experiences, and evokes emotions, I decided to transform this passion into a project that celebrates unity and exchange through special gastronomic moments. This is how Foodie was born, with the purpose of not only offering flavour but also creating connections and providing unforgettable memories around the table.   

What were some of the challenges you faced getting started, and how did you overcome them? 

My biggest challenges as an entrepreneur were the lack of expertise in accounting details, managing documentation, and handling finances. These essential aspects of running a business presented significant obstacles at the beginning of my journey. However, these challenges have gradually been overcome through training, research, and mentorship. Each new experience has given me more knowledge and confidence, strengthening my resilience. Today, I am better equipped to handle these aspects more efficiently, enabling me to focus on Foodie’s continued growth and achieving my entrepreneurial goals. 

As a busy entrepreneur, what do you like to do when you take a break?  

My passion for gastronomy drives me to constantly seek new experiences, whether through gastronomic travels, Foodie retreats, or reading books that expand my knowledge of the culinary world. These moments of immersion and learning are essential for my growth as an entrepreneur and chef, as they allow me to explore different cultures, techniques, and flavours while also providing a fresh perspective on the art of cooking. Each trip, retreat, or book offers valuable insights that enrich my journey and strengthen my mission to create unique gastronomic experiences through Foodie.   

If you could sit down with any business leader or industry expert, who would you choose and why? 

Chef Alex Atala, a renowned chef who also left his home country to explore other culinary worlds and enhance his skills, returned to Brazil, opened his restaurants, wrote books, and became a culinary reference. 

What is the #1 small business book/blog/website you would recommend? 

I really enjoyed a book called Atomic Habits, which helped me a lot in changing habits, which I applied to my entrepreneurship. As for Instagram, I draw inspiration from local small businesses that invest in growth.   

Is there anything currently happening in the London business community that excites you? 

I really enjoy the movement of markets and events in the city, and I’ve been seeking information so that I can participate in events with the Foodie Charcuterie Cart.   

Can you tell us about an entrepreneur you admire and why?  

I greatly admire Frittos&Co., which has overcome all the challenges of entrepreneurship in such a short time and is growing exponentially and sustainably, crossing borders with its products. Two young and determined entrepreneurs run it. 

What’s the best business advice you’ve ever received and why? 

Never give up on your ideas, no matter how many barriers may arise on your journey. Study the path, be prepared for some detours, but never abandon the course. 

 What advice would you give to an aspiring Entrepreneur today?  

 Study the market, invest in information, exchange experiences with other entrepreneurs, and always exceed your customers’ expectations. 

What’s in the future for your business?   

The next step for Foodie is to scale up production to serve more clients. We are developing projects, such as meal prep, to offer convenience and quality to an even larger audience. Among the new projects is Kit Meals, which aims to provide practical and healthy meals tailored to various needs, focusing on initiatives for university students and seniors seeking quick, nutritious, and affordable food solutions. This expansion will enable Foodie to continue its mission of delivering high-quality gastronomic experiences, catering to diverse demands efficiently and personally.    

Learn more about Foodie by Katia Louzada.

Tell us about yourself.
Karen Marques, a highly motivated and team-driven entrepreneur with close to three decades of business development experience.  With a background of being a business owner, Professor and a mom of three. I am passionate about development, whether that is developing new teams, new strategies, new products, or services. I thrive on complexity, innovation, and problem-solving. From inception to market, it’s never a job, it’s a passion, but more so, it’s my life. It’s ME.   

Tell us about your business. 

Grindstone Blends Inc. is a proud Canadian manufacturer specializing in gluten-free, high-protein baking mixes, instant on-the-go Protein CUP-CAKES, and Cream of Rice cereals. Established just 2.5 years ago, we are dedicated to creating nutritious and delicious products that cater to health-conscious consumers. Our new mix is also about finding value in the grocery store, allowing you to make 73 mini muffins per bag, similar to Bisquick but with the added benefit of high protein. Our team is committed to innovation, ensuring our offerings not only meet dietary needs but also deliver exceptional taste and quality. With a focus on gut health and wholesome ingredients, Grindstone Blends is here to empower individuals to enjoy their favourite baked goods and cereals without compromise. 

What services/programs have you utilized at the London Small Business Centre, and how have they helped your business?  

At the London Small Business Centre, I had the opportunity to participate in the Foodpeneur Advantage Scale-up Program, which was an excellent resource for entrepreneurs in the food industry. This program provided a wealth of knowledge, facilitated valuable networking opportunities, and offered guidance from experienced professionals, all of which were instrumental in helping my business grow. I feel very fortunate to have access to such a well-run program in Ontario, as it has equipped me with the tools and insights needed to navigate the complexities of running a successful food business. 

 What led you to start this business?

 The inspiration to start Grindstone Blends came from identifying a complete gap in the market for high-quality, gluten-free functional foods. After conducting extensive market analysis, I realized there was a significant demand for products that not only cater to dietary restrictions but also promote health and wellness. This insight fueled my passion to create a brand that addresses these needs, reflecting how entrepreneurs think about opportunities and challenges. By leveraging the insights gained from my research, I began building a business that I believe can make a meaningful impact in the food industry, providing nutritious options for consumers seeking gluten-free alternatives.  

What advice would you give to an aspiring Entrepreneur today?  

For aspiring entrepreneurs today, my key piece of advice is to embrace failure as a learning opportunity. The journey of entrepreneurship is filled with challenges and setbacks, but each failure provides invaluable lessons that can guide you toward success. Additionally, focus on mastering financial management; understanding your finances is crucial for making informed decisions and allocating resources effectively. Surround yourself with a supportive network, as building relationships can open doors and provide guidance when you need it most. Remember, entrepreneurship is not just about being your own boss; it’s about addressing the needs of your customers and continuously adapting to meet those needs. Stay curious, persistent, and open to learning, and you’ll be well on your way to achieving your business goals.  

 What’s in the future for your business? 

To build a reputation in the gluten-free manufacturing sector in Canada, being recognized for our commitment to health and trusted among Canadian consumers. Our goals include establishing lasting relationships with our retail vendors, ensuring that our products are widely available. In the short term, we are focused on developing and providing high-protein functional foods that cater to all age groups, promoting health and wellness through our offerings. By prioritizing quality and customer satisfaction, we aspire to be a leader in the gluten-free market, contributing positively to the health of our community.  

Learn more about Grindstone Blends.

Tell us about yourself.  

I’m Sarah Bedard, the founder of Dots and Baubles. I have a diverse background in the fashion industry, having worked in high-end boutiques, managed luxury retail departments, and been a merchandiser and buyer. I’ve also worked as a clothing designer, product developer, and freelancer as a stylist for publications like Cosmopolitan, Flare and Hello. I taught designing for Computers at Fanshawe College and ran a Retail Concept Store as a designated Career Coach for the Fashion Marketing Program. I’m passionate about fashion and creativity, which inspired me to create Dots and Baubles. 

Tell us about your business.  
Dots and Baubles is a boutique offering unique, high-quality fashion accessories and apparel. We focus on women-owned brands that are unique and local to Canada and the USA. We champion ethical practices and a personalized shopping experience. Operating since March 2024, we feature products from various women-owned brands. Our team includes the owner, Sarah Bedard, and a freelance content creator. 

What services/programs have you utilized at the London Small Business Centre, and how have they helped your business?  
The Small Business Centre has provided invaluable guidance in business planning, marketing strategies, and connecting with local networks. Their workshops and mentorship programs helped me streamline operations and build a solid foundation for Dots and Baubles. 

How has your business grown since SBC involvement?  
Since partnering with SBC, we’ve expanded our product offerings, strengthened our marketing strategies, and increased brand visibility through pop-up events and collaborations with local businesses. 

What led you to start this business? Was there something that drew (or pushed) you into being an entrepreneur?  
Starting Dots and Baubles was a lifelong dream. Losing my job in manufacturing sales was the push I needed to take the leap into entrepreneurship. My passion for fashion and love for creating unique shopping experiences drove me to make this vision a reality. 

What were some of the challenges you faced getting started, and how did you overcome them?  
Managing all aspects of the business on my own was initially challenging. I overcame this by utilizing local resources, such as Fanshawe College’s co-op programs, and collaborating with other businesses to share responsibilities and costs. 

As a busy entrepreneur, what do you like to do when you take a break?

I enjoy spending time with my family, exploring local shops, and staying inspired by visiting art galleries and community events. One of my passions is travelling and exploring other cultures across the world. 

What is the #1 small business book/blog/website you would recommend? 

The Lean Startup by Eric Ries is an essential read for any entrepreneur. It provides practical advice on building and scaling a business efficiently. 

Is there anything currently happening in the London business community that excites you? 

I’m excited about the growth of larger pop-up markets and collaborative events, which foster connections between local businesses and the community. 

Can you tell us about an entrepreneur you admire and why?  

I admire Gillian Harris for her ability to turn her passion for design into a successful business empire. Her commitment to supporting Canadian businesses, creativity and authenticity is truly inspiring. 

What’s the best business advice you’ve ever received and why? 

“Start small, but dream big.” This advice reminds me to focus on manageable steps while keeping the larger vision in mind. 

What advice would you give to an aspiring Entrepreneur today?  

Don’t be afraid to start, even if everything isn’t perfect. Take the first step, learn as you go, and leverage your network for support. 

What’s in the future for your business?   
In the short term, I plan to expand our store hours and invest in e-commerce. In the long term, I envision creating in-house branded products, participating in larger fashion events, and establishing Dots and Baubles as a must-visit boutique for fashion lovers. 

Learn more about Dots and Baubles.

Tell us about yourself.

Hey there, my name is Nancy, and I’m a Vietnamese-Canadian creative in London, Ontario. Growing up, I always had an interest in the arts, and I eventually landed at Western University to study just that. I never really saw myself realistically creating art as a steady career, which is why I started focusing on graphic design opportunities during my studies. Post-grad, I entered into the graphic design/advertising field, and throughout the next 6.5 years, I eventually moved into the product design tech industry.

Tell us about your business.

I started exploring my creative side again with extra free time during the pandemic. One of the many creative outlets I tried included polymer clay! For about a year, I explored creating handmade earrings and accessories and selling them on Etsy as a side gig – this is where my business, Oh That’s Neat, initially began. I ended up seeing more success than expected, and coupled with feeling like my passion for the product field was waning, I decided to make the jump in early 2022 to take my business full-time. And now, a couple of years later, I’m so happy to have dove in 100%. I’m my only employee at this time, but I do have some help from my amazing husband, who is always supportive and drives me to markets around London and the GTA.

What services/programs have you utilized at the London Small Business Centre and how have they helped your business?

I’ve applied to the Small Business Centre grant program [Starter Company Plus]. The grant funding has been very helpful in covering some costs to help grow my business. In addition, the monthly workshops and mentoring have been great in expanding my knowledge of all the different aspects of managing a business. 

What led you to start this business? Was there something that drew (or pushed) you into being an entrepreneur?

After 6.5 years in a more corporate setting, in varying sized companies, I just started to feel more and more stifled in my creativity, but to be honest just feeling overall very burnt out. Running my own business was something that I never even imagined was possible for me. Having that baby step with doing Oh That’s Neat as a side gig first really helped prime me to see that it could be realistic to go full-time. During my first year, balancing my regular job with this small business, I was able to make enough to qualify to get my GST/HST number, which was a good marker of success for me to go to the next level. When it was time to quit my full-time job, I told myself that I would give this a year to see if I could do it. I gave myself a financial goal of making at least what I was making at my former job – I ended up making more!

As a busy entrepreneur, what do you like to do when you take a break?

A lot of sleep, watching podcasts, and spending time with family and friends! When I’m in the thick of production for my business, it can oftentimes be hard to stay connected with people, so I love to schedule hang-out times with friends when I have a break. Outside of connecting with others, I really just love calm days at home with my husband and cat, where I can just lounge and wake up whenever I want!

Can you tell us about an entrepreneur you admire and why?

One of the first entrepreneurs I started to follow and admire online is Steffi Lynn, who owns Have a Nice Day. In general, I love her fun and vibrant art style, but on top of that, I really appreciate all the work she puts into expanding her product offerings while also doing more creative projects, such as murals and other advertising-related design work.

What advice would you give to an aspiring entrepreneur today?

I would say it’s okay to explore tons of opportunities in the first year just to see what works before narrowing things down. In my personal experience, when I started to attend in-person markets to sell my products, I would just try and apply to any I saw, and because I was so new, I didn’t know what to expect with what makes a good market. Eventually, over time, I found it to be more beneficial to cut off events that weren’t worth the time. It could be factors like the audience being my target, customer spending habits, vending fees not aligning with the value of the event, etc. I would keep notes and detailed profit info from all my markets so I can easily review them at the end of the year to evaluate which ones I want to focus on moving forward.

Learn more about Oh That’s Neat.

 

From left to right: Kahreen Nembhard (Jodybakez), Katrina Cline (Scythe & Sickle Tattoo), Gisele Ngam (Unik Afrifoods), Funmi Ogunshote (Amazing Bakery), Indira Major (Major Tax & Accounting), Gbenga Awomodu (Tweakcentric).

February is Black History Month—a time to celebrate the achievements and contributions of Black entrepreneurs in our community. At the Small Business Centre, we are proud to support and recognize the success of our Black-owned businesses, whose innovation, resilience, and leadership continue to inspire. This month, we invite you to join us in celebrating their accomplishments and exploring the incredible impact they have on London’s business landscape. Meet some of these great entrepreneurs!

Kahreen Nembhard is the soul behind Jodybakez crafting customized cakes with great love, detail, passion, and creativity. She started this business because she loves baking and has always been baking, assisting her mom to bake back home. Her specialties are the rum cake, Jamaican coconut drops, and Jamaican coconut gizzada. “Nothing is impossible. Once there is a will, there is a way you can do all things once you put your mind to it. Kahreen is a Foodpreneur Advantage Scale-up alumna.

Katrine Cline owns Scythe & Sickle Tattoo and went through the Starter Company Plus Program in 2022. The business was established in 2021 and is an open-concept, custom tattoo studio located at 613 Dundas Street in London’s OEV. They pride themselves on the art of their trade, humility, and grassroots. They offer custom tattoos, flash, cover-ups, reworks, aftercare, prints, stickers, and will soon be offering merchandise such as t-shirts and hoodies. “I hope to create a more inclusive tattoo community in London that values marginalized artists, so that people don’t have to experience what I went through to get to where I am.”

Gisele Ngam is the founder of Unik Afrifoods, an African-Caribbean grocery store and take-out restaurant. She completed the Starter Company Plus training in 2023. “My initial motivation for starting the business stemmed from a desire to have my own business and generate income—it was a dream I was determined to fulfill.”

Funmi Ogunshote is the owner of Amazing Bakery, a family-owned small business which was started in September 2020. Their main objective is to bring freshly baked, delicious bread and pastries of Nigerian origin to Canadians. “Be consistent and stay focused. Successful business takes focus, hard work, and resilience.” She participated in the Foodpreneur Advantage Scale-up program.

Indira Major is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) and Certified General Accountant (CGA) with extensive experience across various industries, including non-profits, accounting firms, education, finance, and retail. She has worked in the Tax Department at KPMG and has a strong background in financial reporting, tax strategy, and business advisory services. As the owner of her own tax firm, Dr. Major is dedicated to helping businesses navigate the complexities of taxation and financial management. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a major in Accounting from St. Francis Xavier University. Indira furthered her expertise by completing the CPA In-Depth Tax Certification, a rigorous three-year program, and went on to earn a Master’s Degree in Accountancy and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Accounting from the University of Scranton, USA. Indira volunteers with the Small Business Centre programs, supporting entrepreneurs and giving back to the community.

Gbenga Awomodu is the owner of TweakCentric Solutions, a marketing communications and content solutions company that helps individuals and organizations connect better with their key stakeholders through storytelling. They work with personal brands and small businesses to shape their personal brands and achieve their career goals. For small businesses and other corporate organizations, Tweakcentric provides an avenue for strategic marketing and communications solutions to help drive business objectives. “I am excited to see increasing momentum in the support for and promotion of the set-up and growth of technology and tech-enabled startups here in London.”

Tell us about yourself.

I was born in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine, and have over 15 years of experience as an entrepreneur. Before moving to Canada in 2022, I managed a tourism company and a women’s business club. However, the war in Ukraine forced my family to leave our home and start a new life in Canada. Relocating to Strathroy with my husband and three children was challenging, but it allowed me to combine my passion for cooking with my entrepreneurial skills. In Canada, I studied English intensively while volunteering in the community, which helped me integrate and develop connections. My family’s support and strong leadership skills have been key to my success.

Tell us about your business.

Alla’s Ukrainian Pierogies & More offers authentic Ukrainian pierogies made with natural ingredients alongside a variety of other dishes like soups and desserts. Established in February 2023, the business has grown from renting a small kitchen to opening a full-service restaurant with 12 tables in Strathroy. I also wholesale frozen pierogies and dumplings through “Ukrainian Pierogies Inc.” to local stores and markets. We proudly serve both individual customers and families looking for quick and nutritious meals.

What services/programs have you utilized at the London Small Business Centre, and how have they helped your business?

I have attended various entrepreneurship training sessions at the London Small Business Centre, which provided me with essential knowledge about Canadian business practices and marketing strategies. The SBC team offered guidance on structuring my business through the Foodpreneur Advantage Program and building a strong brand presence, which has been instrumental in my growth.

How has your business grown since SBC’s involvement?

With the support of the SBC, I’ve expanded from producing pierogies for local customers to managing a restaurant and wholesale operations. My network has grown significantly through local business events, and I’ve secured partnerships with cash-and-carry stores and delivery companies. The knowledge I gained from SBC workshops has enabled me to streamline production, enhance marketing efforts, and grow my customer base. Currently, we have one full-time worker on an internship and three part-time workers.

What led you to start this business?

After moving to Canada, I realized there was a demand for high-quality, homemade pierogies that could bring the taste of Ukrainian culture to Canadian families. Encouraged by friends and community members, I decided to turn my lifelong passion for cooking into a business. My desire to share my culture, combined with my entrepreneurial background, motivated me to start Alla’s Ukrainian Pierogies & More.

What were some of the challenges you faced getting started and how did you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges was adapting to the Canadian business environment and learning a new language. To overcome this, I dedicated five hours daily to studying English and actively participated in local business events and conferences. Building relationships with the local community and leveraging support from organizations like the Small Business Centre also helped me navigate the challenges of starting fresh in a new country.

As a busy entrepreneur, what do you like to do when you take a break?

I enjoy spending time with my family, exploring nature, and participating in community activities. Volunteering at local events and engaging with the Rotary Club and Canadian Royal Legion gives me a sense of fulfillment while helping me stay connected to the community.

What advice would you give to an aspiring entrepreneur today?

Be persistent and open to learning. Surround yourself with a supportive network, attend workshops, and don’t hesitate to seek advice. Challenges are part of the journey, but with determination and adaptability, success will follow.

What’s in the future for your business?

I plan to expand the wholesale side of my business by introducing my pierogies to grocery stores across Canada. I also aim to host more pierogi-making workshops to share Ukrainian culture with the community. In the long term, I want to promote Ukrainian Pierogies INC as a recognized Canadian brand of authentic Ukrainian cuisine.

Learn more about Alla’s Ukrainian Pierogies & More