From sustainability to scalability: How Futurpreneur’s Growth Accelerator program is helping young entrepreneurs rethink their supply chains and sales strategies

When you’re growing a business, you can feel like you’re juggling a dozen tasks at once.  

The Futurpreneur Growth Accelerator program, presented by Spin Master, Lexus Canada, and supported by National Bank, is designed to help young entrepreneurs like you sharpen your skills and tackle key challenges, from supply chain management to sales strategies. This program is about more than just growth—it’s about building a smarter, more efficient business. 

Whether you’re learning how to streamline your supply chain, create a scalable sales strategy, or build meaningful connections, the Growth Accelerator helps you move forward. Let’s look at how four young entrepreneurs have already used the program to refine their businesses and push their ideas further. 

Maria Olson: Building a values-driven supply chain 

Maria Olson, founder of Fox & Thistle Mercantile in Chilliwack, BC, knows that sustainability isn’t just a trend—it’s a necessity. “I’ve faced challenges with finding packaging that is affordable, Canadian-made, and available in small quantities,” Maria explains. “It’s not just about cost—it’s about ethics, carbon footprint and space.” 

Through the Growth Accelerator, Maria realized the importance of forecasting and inventory management. She’s now making smarter decisions on purchasing and planning, and is focused on finding more sustainable packaging solutions that reflect her values.

Usman Uzzi Sultoni: Aligning growth with operational efficiency 

Usman Uzzi Sultoni, founder of Adventure Outdoors in Abbotsford, BC, faced a different challenge: operational consistency. “The biggest issue was dealing with delays from manufacturers and having too much stock of some products while running out of others,” Usman says. “That affects customer experience and cash flow.” 

Through the Growth Accelerator, Usman learned to streamline his operations by focusing on supplier relationships, regular inventory counts and centralizing his systems. He’s now well on his way to a more organized and efficient business. 

Grant Guenkel: Turning events into opportunities 

Grant Guenkel, who runs Mister G’s Cookhouse Corp. in Southampton, ON, turned his mobile BBQ catering business into a year-round operation. “I realized I needed to think beyond the product. It’s about creating an experience,” he says. Grant has now started partnering with local businesses for joint events to build a stronger presence, even during the off-season. 

Christina Morrow: From organic growth to strategic selling 

Christina Morrow, founder of Wicked Rose in Vancouver, BC, used to rely on organic growth through Instagram. But the Growth Accelerator Sales workshop showed her how to make the leap to wholesale. “Before, things felt scattered and not intentional,” Christina explains. With new strategies for outreach, prospecting, and lead generation, Christina is now building a more structured sales process. 

2024 winners: DOUBL 

The 2024 Growth Accelerator pitch competition saw DOUBL, founded by Jessica Bosman and Bryn Davis Williams from British Columbia, win the top prize. Their innovative approach to sustainable fashion, using AI to create made-to-measure bras, exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit the Growth Accelerator nurtures. 

Their success is a testament to how the Growth Accelerator program helps entrepreneurs turn their innovative ideas into successful businesses. 

Ready to take your business to the next level? 

The Growth Accelerator is your opportunity to gain the tools, mentorship, and resources to grow your business. Whether you’re refining your supply chain or scaling your sales, this program is the key to moving forward. 

If you’re interested in learning more about the program, check out Futurpreneur’s Growth Accelerator page. 

If you’re ready to take the next step in your entrepreneurial journey, learn more about Futurpreneur’s loan with mentorship. 

Supporting Indigenous business: Five ways you can make a difference on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

In September, communities across Canada mark National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (falls annually on Sept. 30), a time a to reflect on and learn from Canada’s history and take action to advance reconciliation. Futurpreneur proudly supports the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Call-to-Action #92, focusing on Indigenous economic empowerment.  

Supporting Indigenous-led businesses is one impactful way to contribute. Every purchase helps build equitable relationships with Indigenous communities. Every purchase from these businesses not only helps to uplift and empower Indigenous entrepreneurs but also fosters greater economic reconciliation with Indigenous communities.

By choosing to shop Indigenous, you’re participating in a meaningful act of reconciliation, helping to bridge gaps and build stronger, more equitable relationships. Discover how your purchasing power can be a force for positive change and join the movement towards reconciliation by supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs.

Not sure where to start? Futurpreneur has put together a list of six awesome products and services from entrepreneurs supported by the Indigenous Entrepreneur Startup Program (IESP), to allow you to help these Indigenous businesses thrive.

1. Support an Indigenous retail leader with your purchase of an Orange Shirt

Show your commitment to healing and justice by purchasing an Orange Shirt from aaniin. Founded by Chelsee Pettit, a visionary Indigenous leader and trailblazer in women-owned retail, aaniin is making a significant impact through its commitment to Truth & Reconciliation. By purchasing an Orange Shirt from aaniin, you’re helping acknowledge the systemic barriers and inter-generational traumas experienced by Indigenous Peoples and communities. Each shirt is more than just apparel—it’s a symbol of solidarity with healing and justice for Indigenous communities. Embrace this opportunity to support aaniin and Chelsee’s inspiring journey toward reconciliation and change.

What can I do? Add aaniin’s Orange T-Shirt to your cart today!

2. Stand in solidarity and support reconciliation with Red Rebel Armour’s Indigenous Ally T-Shirt

Another option for Indigenous allies who want to show their commitment to reconciliation and support Indigenous communities is by purchasing the ‘Indigenous Ally’ t-shirt from Red Rebel Armour. This powerful and stylish garment is more than just a statement piece—it’s a symbol of your dedication to standing alongside Indigenous Peoples in their journey towards justice and equality. By wearing this shirt, you’re amplifying the call for change and demonstrating your role in fostering a more inclusive and respectful society. Join the movement, make your support visible, and be a true ally.

What can I do? Buy your Indigenous Ally t-shirt from Red Rebel Armour today!

3. Nourish your skin and support Indigenous entrepreneurship at Aki Boutique

Discover the essence of natural beauty with Aki Boutique’s Blueberry and Sage skin toner, proudly founded by Indigenous entrepreneur, Charity Lax. This revitalizing toner not only enhances your skincare routine but also embodies the spirit of Indigenous entrepreneurship. By choosing this product, you’re supporting Charity’s dedication to promoting holistic wellness and empowering Indigenous communities. Embrace the rejuvenating power of blueberry and sage while contributing to a meaningful cause.

What can I do? Elevate your skincare and make a positive impact—pick-up the Blueberry and Sage toner at Aki Boutique!

4. Buy a jacket to give a jacket: Double the warmth

Keep cozy this winter while helping others stay warm. Warm Social Founder Jordan Britton builds his social mission directly into Warm’s business model. By purchasing a winter coat from Warm Social, you’re not only endorsing a meaningful cause but also supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs dedicated to making a difference. For every Warm winter jacket purchased, one jacket is donated to a person in need.

What can I do? Warm up this winter and make an impact with your men’s or women’s Long Down Puffer Coat from Warm Social.

5. Elevate your corporate culture with Deanne Hupfield’s cultural competence training

If you are corporate or community leader, or a business owner, you can help elevate your organizational culture by engaging, Deanne Hupfield, to build Indigenous awareness and cultural competencies. With her extensive expertise and deep understanding of Indigenous cultures, Deanne offers transformative sessions that empower employees with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate and appreciate the diversity of Indigenous perspectives. Investing in this training not only demonstrates your commitment to equity and inclusion but also enhances team dynamics and strengthens organizational values.

What can I do? Make a meaningful impact—partner with Deanne Hupfield to lead your company towards a more culturally competent and respectful future.

Learn more about Futurpreneur’s Indigenous Entrepreneur Startup Program (IESP) by clicking here.