In past columns, we shared two truths: entrepreneurship thrives in community, and Scarborough— home to a quarter of Toronto’s people—still holds only a fraction of its jobs. That’s not just a stat; it’s a call to action. This month, we focus on what we’re doing next to change that story. From “Why not here?” to “Start here.”
At our recent events, one message echoed from founders, family businesses, and newcomer-led startups: “We can grow here—if we have the right people, guidance, and access.” That’s exactly what the SBA is building.
The Mentorship Mixer: Doors Opened on Purpose We’re launching the SBA Mentorship Mixer Series to connect early-stage entrepreneurs with experienced business leaders and institutional partners. These aren’t talk-shop panels. They’re designed around real asks—first customers, procurement leads, marketing support, and capital clarity. It’s a space to build practical momentum, not just swap business cards.
Business with Purpose: Aligning Business Growth with Community Impact.
At the SBA, we know business growth isn’t just about profit—it’s also about connection and contribution. The strongest local economies are built where businesses meet both market demand and community need.
Our latest collaboration with Feed Scarborough is a model for how local organizations and businesses can come together to create impact. Here’s how we’re aligning our networks:
- Community Markets & Vendor Fairs: Feed Scarborough’s mobile food trucks and farmers’ markets naturally align with SBA’s vendor network. By promoting these events through SBA’s communication channels and co-hosting seasonal vendor fairs, we can drive foot traffic, strengthen local food access, and showcase small businesses across Scarborough.
- Workforce & Internship Pathways: Many SBA member businesses—particularly in food, retail, and hospitality— are well-positioned to offer internships or employment to graduates of culinary and job training programs. It’s a direct path from skill-building to meaningful work.
- Networking & Capacity Building: We’re exploring ways to host inclusive mixers that bring together our business community with program graduates, volunteers, and trainers. These connections open doors to mentorship, professional development, and long-term support.
- Advocacy & Policy Collaboration: Beyond events, we’re committed to showing up together at the municipal and provincial level—whether advocating for food security, urban agriculture, flexible commercial space, or small business development. We’re also exploring co-developed programming, such as an SBA led business skills series tailored to emerging community entrepreneurs.
These kinds of partnerships don’t just do good—they make business sense. They build trust, expand networks, and create more resilient local markets. That’s the ripple effect in action.
Join Us: Let’s Build What’s Next If Part I was about belief, Part II is about action. Bring your business—whether it’s kitchen-table or warehouse-based—and plug into a network built to help you grow here.
Next touchpoint: SBA After Five at Global Jam, August 13. Meet mentors, bankers, buyers, and peers. Share what you’re building and where you’re stuck. We’ll bring the room—and the follow- through.
Scarborough’s future won’t just happen. We’ll build it—together—one connection, one smart policy, one courageous business at a time.
