Meet the $10,000 Zensurance Small Business Grant Recipient
The votes have been tallied and we are delighted to announce the recipient of the $10,000 Small Business Grant is Next Level Property Management & Services Ltd. on Cape Sable Island, Nova Scotia!
We were truly honoured to learn about the inspiring journeys of all our applicants and finalists, who showcased remarkable dedication and ambition.
We are also thrilled to share that our five other finalists will each be awarded a $1,000 grant.
You can read the Q&A with all the Zensurance Small Business Grant recipients here.
Meet Our $1,000 Grant Recipients
Infinite Harvest Technologies
Co-Founder & CEO: Luis Ortiz
Niagara, Ontario-based Infinite Harvest Technologies is turning food waste into reusable proteins and fertilizers through innovative bioconversion technology. The company helps businesses and municipalities reduce waste costs and greenhouse gas emissions.
Ouroboros Deconstruction
Owner: Meredith Moore
Toronto-based Ouroboros Deconstruction is rethinking demolition with a circular approach that salvages materials from deconstruction projects for reuse in new builds. By keeping usable materials out of landfills, the company helps reduce waste and lower carbon emissions.
Geez Louise
Co-Owners: Carmen Douville and Lauren Jones
Toronto-based Geez Louise is reshaping the beverage space with prebiotic sparkling water focused on hydration and gut health. Since launching in 2022, the brand has expanded into more than 500 retail locations across Canada, tripled its revenue, and contributed from every sale to Indigenous-led clean water initiatives.
Shore Peddlin’
Owner: Jess Tofflemire
Based in Musquodoboit Harbour, Nova Scotia, Shore Peddlin’ serves classic treats and locally made ice cream at private, corporate and community events from a vintage bicycle cart. Operating year round across Nova Scotia, the business brings a distinctive local touch to events across the province.
Mint & Matter
Co-Owner: Anita Orakwue
Founded in 2025, Calgary-based Mint & Matter is a tech-forward cleaning business known for its high-touch service and customer care. Mint & Matter is also deeply community-minded, recently donating its services through an auction to help raise funds for Black students attending university in Calgary.
About the Zensurance Small Business Grant
The #ZensuranceGrant2026 application is open to all Canadian* entrepreneurs, startups, and small business owners with compelling stories about their businesses.
* Excluding Quebec, Northwest Territories, Yukon, and Nunavut
To be eligible to win, entrants must complete the application form, get a free insurance quote, follow one of our social media channels, and be an operational company registered in Canada with annual revenue that does not exceed $1 million — only one entry per business.
Please read our full terms and conditions
A shortlist of 6 finalists will be announced on March 12, 2026, at 9 a.m. ET.
The public may vote on which of the top six finalists should receive the $10,000 grant from March 12 to 19, 2026, at 8 a.m. ET (so get active on social media, tag us, and encourage your customers and friends to vote!).
The $10,000 business grant recipient will be announced on March 24, 2026.
Our Previous Small Business Grant Recipients
Samantha Lemus, owner of Sol & Sage Yoga in Bowmanville, was our first winner in 2026.
Emile Maamary, co-owner of Steadiwear in Toronto, was our third winner in 2025.
Hugo Latrielle, owner of Malarctic Design + Builds in Ottawa, Ontario, was our winner in 2023.
Key Timelines
Resources for Canadian Small Businesses
Do I Really Need Liability Insurance for My Small Business in Canada? (Even If I’m Low Risk?)
All small businesses in Canada face some level of liability risk – even home-based, online, or one-person businesses. Without liability insurance, you may have to pay for losses, damages, or legal defence costs, settlements, and court-awarded damages out of pocket.
15 Business Grants and Loans for Women in Canada (2026 Guide)
The Zensurance Small Business Grant is one of many options for Canadian women entrepreneurs and startups led by women that are available to help them grow their businesses. See our list of grants and loans to pursue.
10 Questions to Ask Before Renewing Your Small Business Insurance
Reviewing your business insurance coverage annually – especially at the start of a new year – is one of the best ways to protect your small business. Before you renew a policy, ask an insurance broker a few key questions to confirm you’ve got the right coverage for your Canadian business. Here are 10 questions to ask.
Visit the Zensurance Small Business Insights blog for more resources.
