For the past several months, CSED has been working with an amazing group of change-makers, who participated in the 2024 Social Enterprise Bootcamp, a comprehensive training program designed to develop social impact business ideas and create a solid foundation to launch.
The bootcamp culminated in a Pitch Day on September 5th where participants were judged on the quality of their business idea and plan to move it forward. Congratulations to our incredible bootcamp graduates:
- Ana Guerra, Sustainable Wardrobe Action Plan (S.W.A.P)
- Charmian Romano, Launchpad Kitchens
- Cheryl Netterfield, POMME Health
- Dominique Breton, Soundscapes with Dom
- Kieran Wilkins, In Your Nature
- Rebecca Chambers, R.I.S.E. Academy
- Simon English, Soybean Aeroponic
- Trecia Campbell-Ash, Hidden Gemz Thrift Store (The Caldwell Family Centre)
A special shout out to Charmian Romano and Rebecca Chambers for being the top pitch winners! Each receives a $1000 cash award and additional coaching support from CSED to further develop their social enterprise.
“The knowledge, insights, and practical strategies you shared have given me a much clearer direction…and have been truly inspiring. The lessons I’ve learned will no doubt play a significant role in shaping my next steps.”
Charmian Romano, 2024 participant
Bootcamp participants were also matched with an experienced mentor who provided additional guidance and advice. CSED is grateful to Cate Friesen, The Story Source; Danielle Rolfe, Soul Space Ottawa; John Petitti, Carlington Community Health Centre; Manjit Basi, CSED Board of Directors; Mark Cassetta, Axiomatics; Michael Bernatowski, 2Phase3 Consulting Inc.; Pierre Gaudet, Ottawa Community Loan Fund; Susan Ingram, Big Brothers Big Sisters; and Tina Crouse, You Can Answer IT for so generously volunteering their time.
A sincere thank you to the City of Ottawa for its funding support and to our sponsor Integral North law firm for helping to make the bootcamp possible.
Interested in being part of the next bootcamp? Add your name to our “First to Know” list and we’ll contact you as soon as details for the next bootcamp are available.