In December 2019, the ThriveNorth program successfully completed its five-year mandate. Managed by Futurpreneur Canada, the program helped young entrepreneurs in Northern B.C. launch and grow their businesses by connecting them with resources, financing and mentorship.

In preparation for the upcoming ThriveNorth Business Challenge, we’ll be introducing all 12 of our promising finalists.

First up, the entrepreneurs in the ‘New Business’ category. These diverse finalists share a passion for entrepreneurship and are focused on turning their exciting ideas into new businesses.

Celebrate entrepreneurship and cheer on the finalists at the Business Challenge Awards Ceremony, March 28 5:30-8 pm. RSVP at http://ow.ly/KpJHH

Eleanor Stewart
Eleanor Stewart
Eleanor Stewart is a recent grad from the Kootenay School of the Arts, where she obtained a diploma with honours in Jewelry and Small Object Design. Since graduating, Eleanor has participated in multiple public gallery shows and volunteered with Smithers Secondary School’s jewelry program. Driven by her love of jewelry and a desire to contribute to her local economy, she created Raven and Grey, her own line of handmade jewelry.
April Link
April Link
April Link has a background in tourism, outdoor education, and youth-at-risk programming. She has such ascompleted Canadian Outdoor Leadership Training and has plenty of hands-on experience, from working as a sea kayak guide to offering an outdoor stress and anxiety management group for girls. Inspired to create a business that would spread her love of the outdoors. April’s new company, Outer Coast Outfitters, will offer guides, education, and gear rentals.
Ria Smith
Ria Smith
Ria Smith is a hospitality industry veteran, with a background in both food and cleaning services. Beginning in childhood on a farm, Ria has been dedicated to creating high quality food, maintaining best farming practices, and embodying the entrepreneurial spirit. This passion for fresh, locally inspired meals and a commitment to customer service are the underpinnings of her business idea – a catering company dedicated to serving Hazelton and neighboring areas.
Apple Ament
Apple Ament
Apple Amment of Terrace, B.C, has been interested in pursuing entrepreneurship since a young age. Since becoming the youngest graduate of the Career Management Generator Entrepreneurship Program in St. Thomas ON, Apple has been involved with multiple small businesses, including her own store. Next, Apple hopes to launch Aments’ Attic, a retailer specializing in vintage goods and cultural items.

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