Entrepreneurs, business owners and community partners from across Windsor-Essex attended the Small Business Summit yesterday for a dynamic day of learning, networking and inspiration.
Hosted by the Windsor Essex Chamber of Commerce and the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre, a division of Invest WindsorEssex, and presented by the Toronto-Dominion Bank, the Small Business Summit featured a keynote presentation by James Boettcher, CEO and Custodian of Culture at Righteous, a panel discussion with leading local entrepreneurs and informative breakout sessions on key business topics.
James Boettcher shared his journey from acquiring a small gelato shop in 2009 to building Righteous, Canada’s No. 1 gelato company. His keynote, “Build Something That Matters,” highlighted how purpose, people and persistence can transform any ordinary company into an extra-ordinary movement.
Boettcher’s story resonated deeply with attendees, providing practical insights, a few laughs (and tears) and a renewed sense that businesses can be successful and make money while also making a profound impact.
Adding to the day’s inspiring programming, a panel discussion, “Beyond the Bottom Line: Purpose, Passion and the Power of Local Business,” brought together a diverse lineup of Windsor-Essex entrepreneurs who are making a difference across various industries:
- Richard Peddie, Amherstburg business owner, philanthropist and former president and CEO of Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment
- Jason Trussell, owner and franchisee of 12 McDonald’s restaurants in Windsor-Essex
- Ameen Fadel, co-founder and president of Cedar Valley
- Brenell Dean, paralegal and business consultant at TPP Partner Inc. and Good Tell Collaborative
- John Alvarez, co-owner of F&B Hospitality Group
Moderated by CBC Windsor Morning host Amy Dodge, the panel explored how values-based leadership, innovation and collaboration are shaping the future of the region’s business community.
The Summit also featured interactive breakout sessions on marketing, leadership, funding and sustainability, offering attendees practical insights and strategies to support business growth.
The event underscored the importance of collaboration between small business owners, community organizations and local government in building a resilient and innovative regional economy.
“The incredible enthusiasm at this year’s Small Business Summit shows just how committed our local entrepreneurs are to learning, connecting and growing. By bringing together leaders who lead with purpose and passion, we’re helping to strengthen the foundations of our local economy and inspire the next generation of business owners,” said Sabrina DeMarco, Executive Director, Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre, a division of Invest WindsorEssex.