
Successful Start-Ups
What successful York Region businesses have to say

Carina Black
Lizann Grupalo & Bridget Reid
Description: We design and manufacture luxury women’s handbags.
“The team at York Region Small Business Enterprise Centre has assisted us since our early business development stage. They have provided references that assisted us in registering our business and helped us write our business plan. Attending various seminars has provided us invaluable information as we now look to grow our business. A great resource — thank you!”
Cross Country, Ramble, Scramble, Car Rally and Auction
Jack Brice
Description: We work with organizations who wish to raise money by organizing and running fun car rallies.
“Dan and his staff have organized some very valuable workshops which have led to some great networking opportunities. I had no idea that there were so many creative and hard working entrepreneurs in York Region.”

De-Clutter2clean
Linda Witlox
Description: De-Clutter2clean partners with you to help you eliminate the clutter within your home by removing the items not being used, donating to a local charity or purchasing items required to make the space cluttered free and organized. Your home is de-cluttered as if it was our own!
“Working with the coordinators from the York Small Business Enterprise Centre helped me to determine the options I have to help my business grow. The seminars they offered provided me with insightful information on running a small business, and Dan Ruby was there to guide me on the right path when it came to setting up a website. I wish to thank the Centre for their continued assistance.”
The Hockey Lanes Inc.
Tamara and Kolya Pelowich
Description: The Hockey Lanes is a 10,000 square foot, state-of-the-art hockey training facility located in Stouffville, Ontario. We have 5 puck shooting lanes, an Endless Ice Skating Treadmill, a 40′ x 80′ Synthetic Ice Training Rink and a Dry Land Fitness Area, with 2 Dressing Rooms, Boardroom Facilities, a Snack Kiosk and Pro Shop complete with Skate Sharpening.
“Our location was found, our Business Plan was complete and our construction had begun. We went to the York Small Business Enterprise Centre to ensure all required permits and licences have been met and found much more! Dan Ruby was fantastic to bounce ideas off of and directed us to finding additional financing for The Hockey Lanes.”
Jordash Inc.
Patricia Easton
Description: We are a gallery and gift shop committed to significant Canadian content, although we also have art treasures for the home and garden from around the world. We also have rental space for private showings, and fundraising for various charitable needs.
“The help, advice and guidance from the Small Business Enterprise Center and especially Mr. Dan Ruby has given me unlimited optimism for the year 2009, and I hope to make it my best ever! I have learned how to market myself so much better. I hope other small businesses find you sooner than I did. Many thanks!”
Kaleidoscope Closet
Jennifer Feasby
Description: Families can shop, sell and save on top quality, gently used maternity and kids (newborn to teen) clothing and accessories. Kidsignment…for their ever changing needs!
“The YSBEC advisor provided me with encouragement and insight to reinforce that my business plan was heading in the right direction of becoming my REALITY. Thanks!”
Bradford Laser Centre
Toni Mossman
Description: Gentle and effective permanent hair and vein removal as well as skin tightening and firming using a state of the art Candela GentleYAGTM Laser System. All services are performed in a private, comfortable environment, thereby ensuring the utmost in client satisfaction.
“The team at the York Small Business Enterprise Centre helped me review my business plan and acquire the necessary financing to get my business started.”
Petite Gourmet
Lisa Goral
Description: Petite Gourmet is a fine dining European bistro located in the heart of Mount Albert. We offer fine cuisine in a comfortable, cozy atmosphere. Whether you are getting together with friends, having dinner out with the family, or perhaps a romantic getaway, we have a menu that will tantalize your senses and leave you wanting more.
“The York Small Business Enterprise Centre suggested useful marketing tactics to ensure successful promotion of Petite Gourmet. With their help I was able to bring my ideas to life and make my dream come true! Thank you!”

S & P Food Market
753 Davis Drive, Newmarket, L3Y 2R2
Pech Pea and Chankanha Say
Description: We specialize in Asian grocery produce: fresh exotic fruits, green vegetables, packaged and canned items imported from Asia. Special orders for local restaurants and home catering are also available.
“Before I purchased my business, I had met Dan Ruby from the York Region Small Business Enterprise Centre a couple of times. I found him very helpful! He helped me set up a business plan and walked me through the business registration process. Thank you Dan!”





