Insights Blog - Latest Posts

News Ignite News Ignite

Fueling Entrepreneurial Spirit through expanded Funding Opportunities

Fredericton, NB, May 17, 2024 – Federal support will help entrepreneurs and small business owners access important seed capital funding to start or expand their local businesses. The Government of Canada, through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, has contributed more than $1 million to sustain the delivery of Ignite’s Impact Loan Program (ILP).

Read More
Podcasts Ignite Podcasts Ignite

Locked on Local | Renata Britez: RB Studio & Gallery

Join Andrew Lockhart as he sits down with Renata Britez, the creative mind behind RB Studio Art Centre and Gallery, and dives into the captivating journey of RB Studio and what sets it apart in the realm of local art and creativity.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of RB Studio, where local art, creativity, and nature converge. With a curated collection featuring over 30 Maritime artists and makers, this is a sanctuary for art enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Read More
Resources Ignite Resources Ignite

Q1 Report- 2024

Please feel free to access our 2024 Q1 (quarter one) Board report, providing details on our team milestones and achievements from January - March 2024 as well as some forward thinking for the next quarter to come.

Read More
Ignite Ignite

Notre bulletin de rendement (FR)

En 2023, notre organisation a connu une croissance considérable sur plusieurs fronts. Notre équipe s’est agrandie, notre portée s’est élargie et notre compréhension des besoins de nos clients s’est approfondie. En travaillant ensemble, nous avons élaboré des programmes et des initiatives créatifs pour encourager la croissance et l’adaptabilité, ouvrant la voie à un avenir prometteur.

En savoir plus sur nos résultats et notre impact ici!

Read More
Ignite Ignite

Our Report Card (EN)

In 2023, our organization saw substantial growth on multiple fronts. Our team grew in size, our reach expanded, and our understanding of our clients' needs deepened. By working together, we developed creative programs and initiatives to encourage growth and adaptability, setting the stage for a bright future.

Read More

Articles

Featured
Celebrating Excellence: Honouring Atlantic Canada’s Most Inspiring Immigrant Award Winners
Celebrating Excellence: Honouring Atlantic Canada’s Most Inspiring Immigrant Award Winners

Ignite proudly celebrates Doyin Somorin and Oriana Cordido, recipients of the 2025 Most Inspiring Immigrant Award at the annual gala in Halifax. Their dedication and leadership continue to make a lasting impact on our communities. Read more about their inspiring journey and achievements on our website.

10 Years of Innovation – Members Throughout the Years
10 Years of Innovation – Members Throughout the Years

In honour of Planet Hatch’s 10 Year, we’re wanted to highlight some of the amazing talent and innovation that generated successful businesses in our region. Check out the stories of some of Planet Hatch’s members, past and present, to hear how these successful businesses got their start.

AI - The Future of City Planning
AI - The Future of City Planning
Finding Success Through Connections
Finding Success Through Connections

The Connector program aids international and local recent grads to integrate into the local job market by matching them with leaders in their industries, expanding their professional networks quickly, and creating ties to communities across the region. The true impact of what this program means to our connectees comes from their personal stories. Here are three stories from some of our connectees that have found success. 

3 Small Business Collaborations in the Capital Region
3 Small Business Collaborations in the Capital Region

Here at Ignite we recognize the value of small businesses in the region and their positive impact on our economy. This is why, every year, in the month of October we celebrate “Small Business Week”, where we collaborate with small businesses and business support organizations to come together and learn, network and promote the impact small business have on our community. In this year’s “Small Business week”, we wanted to highlight businesses that support and aid the work of other small businesses. Here are some of these awesome companies.  

Ignite hosts the first-ever ‘Newcomer Summit’
Ignite hosts the first-ever ‘Newcomer Summit’

Ignite is aiming at making the transition to your new home in the Capital Region as seamless and stress-free as possible with our first annual Newcomer Summit. This exciting event will gather together newcomers, government agencies, and support organizations in one room to foster connections and present information.

Reach new heights with Ignite’s Business Development Officers
Reach new heights with Ignite’s Business Development Officers

Ignite, the leading Economic Development agency for Capital and Western Valley Regions, is delighted to introduce a brand-new team to support growing businesses within our region. The new team members include Sofia, Hannahbelle, and Danielle.

Newcomer Business finds home at the Beaverbrook Art Gallery
Newcomer Business finds home at the Beaverbrook Art Gallery

Newcomer-owned ‘Daily Espresso’ opens its doors at Fredericton’s Beaverbrook Art Gallery.

The ‘Daily Espresso’ is a cafe owned by a Colombian couple, Nicolas and Paola Laverde-Marquez, and their business partner and fellow Colombian, Andres Hernandez. The business partners came to Canada to improve their quality of life and expand their career opportunities.

3 Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Businesses in the Capital Region
3 Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Businesses in the Capital Region

Happy Earth Day! Today we want to recognize businesses in our region that are doing their part to create sustainable and eco-friendly products and services. Here are just a few of these incredible businesses…

Atlantic City Trends
Atlantic City Trends

Atlantic Canada’s cities are the driving force behind strong growth in the region’s economy.

All Atlantic cities were growing at above average rates in 2022 due to increased immigration and strong migration flows from other parts of Canada.

This report from the Atlantic Provinces Economic Council highlights the economic growth of cities within the Atlantic Provinces

Ignite Spotlight: The Dandy Paint Lounge
Ignite Spotlight: The Dandy Paint Lounge

The Dandy Paint Lounge is a place in Fredericton where aspiring, amateur and pro painters alike can find their voice on the canvas (or skateboard deck, or vinyl record)

The Atlantic Immigration Program: A Path Forward
The Atlantic Immigration Program: A Path Forward

The AIP or Atlantic Immigration Program is a pivotal immigration program to help build Atlantic Canada’s skilled workforce. But it’s not for everyone, and there are areas for improvement. Read this if you’re considering the AIP as a path to permanent residency

Locked on Local Podcast

Ignite’s Locked on Local, a podcast that facilitates conversations with the region’s business community. Business owners and entrepreneurs talk about their entrepreneurial journeys, challenges they’ve faced along the way, and what’s next for their businesses.

Would you or someone you know be the a great guest for Locked on Local? Let us know here: https://bit.ly/locked-on-local-form

Featured
Locked on Local | Chad McGarity: Warehouse Barbershop
Locked on Local | Chad McGarity: Warehouse Barbershop

Join host Andrew Lockhart on Locked on Local as he chats with Chad McGarity, the owner of The Warehouse Barbershop in Fredericton. More than just a place for a haircut, Chad has built a community-focused space that gives back through local initiatives. Tune in for a conversation about entrepreneurship, community, and the heart of Fredericton!

Locked on Local | Emily Arsenault: Dog Eared Books
Locked on Local | Emily Arsenault: Dog Eared Books

Join host Andrew Lockhart on Locked on Local as he explores Dog Eared Books—a welcoming, inclusive space in Oromocto. Meet owner Emily Arsenault and discover how her bookstore celebrates local authors, artisans, and the joy of reading.

Locked on Local | Carolyn Gibbons: Consciously Clean Refillery Inc.
Locked on Local | Carolyn Gibbons: Consciously Clean Refillery Inc.

Get ready for an exciting all-new episode of Locked on Local as Host Andrew Lockhart chats with Carolyn Gibbons, the mastermind behind Consciously Clean Refillery Inc.

Locked on Local | Andres Hernandez: Daily Espresso Inc.
Locked on Local | Andres Hernandez: Daily Espresso Inc.

In this new episode of Locked on Local, join Andrew Lockhart and guest, Andres Hernandez, owner of Daily Espresso.

Locked on Local | Renata Britez: RB Studio & Gallery
Locked on Local | Renata Britez: RB Studio & Gallery

Join Andrew Lockhart as he sits down with Renata Britez, the creative mind behind RB Studio Art Centre and Gallery, and dives into the captivating journey of RB Studio and what sets it apart in the realm of local art and creativity.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of RB Studio, where local art, creativity, and nature converge. With a curated collection featuring over 30 Maritime artists and makers, this is a sanctuary for art enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Locked on Local | Kevin Stewart: First Light Distillery
Locked on Local | Kevin Stewart: First Light Distillery

Meet the new hidden gem on Hanwell, First Light Distillery! Kevin and Jen Stewart, have brought their passion for spirits back to their hometown and to Locked On Local. Specializing in creating craft spirits using locally sourced ingredients, Kevin shares their journey of leaving Toronto, falling in love with distilleries, and seizing the opportunity to open their own during the pandemic.

Suppose you're curious about the story behind a local distillery with big dreams. In that case, this conversation will give you a taste of the passion and dedication that goes into crafting exceptional spirits.

Locked on Local Episode 8: Connell Farms
Locked on Local Episode 8: Connell Farms

Have you seen Connell Farms at your local market? This week on Locked On Local, we spoke to the owner, Danielle Connell. With a commercial flock of over 80 sheep, Connell Farms produces farm-fresh lamb and pork products that are sold directly from their shop, at markets, online, delivery, and to other butcher shops. Listen now to learn more about Danielle's business.

Listen Here

Locked on Local Episode 7: Big Sky Ventures
Locked on Local Episode 7: Big Sky Ventures

Have you ever heard of Sea Buckthorn berries? This bright orange fruit is known for it's healing effects and can be made into raw juice, dehydrated powder, skin care and wine. In our latest episode of Locked on Local, we spoke to Beth Fowler from Big Sky Ventures Inc. a Certified Kosher Sea Buckthorn Berry orchard and licensed winery in Chipman.

Listen now

Locked on Local Episode 6: Jeff Mundee
Locked on Local Episode 6: Jeff Mundee

For 15 years, Jeff Mundee has been a game programmer, often working independently on gamified software user interfaces in his spare time. For the uninitiated, a gamified software is simply a software that has been set up to play like a video game, but that performs an actual task.

Locked on Local Episode 5: Duncan Clowater
Locked on Local Episode 5: Duncan Clowater

Born and raised in Fredericton, Duncan Clowater spent close to 6 years travelling around the world and working in different places. Duncan grew up working in a family plumbing and heating business, until at ag 48 he took a left turn to try something completely different…

Locked On Local Episode 4: Stefanie Loukes
Locked On Local Episode 4: Stefanie Loukes

Stefanie Loukes is the founder of Rabbittown Beverage Co. On Ignite’s “Locked on Local” she opens up about how she got her start in the beverage industry.

Locked On Local Episode 3: Matt Clancey
Locked On Local Episode 3: Matt Clancey

Forest Protection is a huge responsibility requiring a fleet of airplanes and an army of personnel to get the job down. Director of Ground Operations, Matthew Clancey tells us how it’s done.

Resources

Featured
Business Resources & Support: U.S. Tariff Updates & Strategic Guidance 
News, Resources
Business Resources & Support: U.S. Tariff Updates & Strategic Guidance 
News, Resources

Ignite has gathered essential resources and information from ecosystem partners to help keep our business community informed and prepared. Below, you will find details on upcoming webinars, government resources, and programs designed to support businesses navigating trade challenges. 

This is a live document and will be continuously updated as more information and advocacy efforts emerge. 

News, Resources
Q4 - Report 2024
Resources
Q4 - Report 2024
Resources

Please feel free to access our 2024 Q4 (quarter four) Board Report, providing details on our team milestones and achievements from October - December 2024 as well as some forward thinking for the next quarter to come.

Resources
Q3- Report 2024
Resources
Q3- Report 2024
Resources

Please feel free to access our 2024 Q3 (quarter three) Board report, providing details on our team milestones and achievements from July - September 2024 as well as some forward thinking for the next quarter to come.

Resources
Q2 Report- 2024
Resources
Q2 Report- 2024
Resources

Please feel free to access our 2024 Q2 (quarter two) Board report, providing details on our team milestones and achievements from April - June 2024 as well as some forward thinking for the next quarter to come.

Resources
Q1 Report- 2024
Resources
Q1 Report- 2024
Resources

Please feel free to access our 2024 Q1 (quarter one) Board report, providing details on our team milestones and achievements from January - March 2024 as well as some forward thinking for the next quarter to come.

Resources
Capital Region Entity Profiles
Resources, Economic Data
Capital Region Entity Profiles
Resources, Economic Data

Welcome to the Capital Region, located in the heart of New Brunswick. This dynamic region is home to a mix of vibrant communities that each boast their own unique landscapes, industries, attractions, and businesses. Check out our Entity Profiles below to learn more about these vibrant communities and what they have to offer.

Resources, Economic Data
Q4 Report 2023
Resources
Q4 Report 2023
Resources

Please feel free to access our 2023 Q4 (quarter four) Board report, providing details on our team milestones and achievements for the third quarter (October - December 2023) as well as some forward thinking for the next quarter to come. You will also find our KPI scorecard with year-to-date data.

Resources
Western New Brunswick Economic Snapshot
Economic Data, Resources
Western New Brunswick Economic Snapshot
Economic Data, Resources

The purpose of this report is to present an economic analysis of the the Western New Brunswick Region, including gathering and analyzing information on demography, immigration, labour force, income, businesses, major industries and sectors.

Economic Data, Resources
Capital Region Welcome Guide
Resources
Capital Region Welcome Guide
Resources

Unlock the essence of our community with our bite-sized welcome guide. Your go-to for local secrets, flavors, and charm. Start exploring the adventure of our welcoming little world!

Resources
Capital Region Economic Profile
Resources, Economic Data
Capital Region Economic Profile
Resources, Economic Data

Previous to regionalization, Ignite offered economic assistance to Fredericton, New Maryland, and Oromocto. Starting in early 2023, Ignite expanded its assistance to the 13 formed entities in the RSC 11. The purpose of this report is to present an economic analysis of the Capital Region. This included gathering and analyzing information on demography, immigration, labour force, income, businesses, major industries and sectors. CLICK here to access the report

Resources, Economic Data
Q3 Report 2023
Resources
Q3 Report 2023
Resources

Please feel free to access our 2023 Q3 (quarter three) Board report, providing details on our team milestones and acheivements for the third quarter (July - September 2023) as well as some forward thinking for the next quarter to come. You will also find our KPI scorecard with year to date data. Click here to view the full report

Resources
Q2 Report 2023
Resources
Q2 Report 2023
Resources

Please feel free to access our 2023 Q2 (quarter two) Board report, providing details on our team milestones and acheivements the second quarter (April - June 2023) as well as some forward thinking for the next quarter to come. You will also find our KPI scorecard with YTD data. Click here to view the full report

Resources

Infographics and Visual Resources

Featured
Small Business Week Impact
Small Business Week Impact

Small Business Week at Ignite/Planet Hatch was a great opportunity for community members to find out about the process and lifestyle of business ownership.

Five-Year Report Card
Five-Year Report Card

Our five-year report card, 2022, is a summary of Knowledge Park/Ignite/Planet Hatch’s performance over the past half decade, highlighting our impact from job creation to economic development.

Immigration Month Social Media Impact
Immigration Month Social Media Impact
Economic Empowerment for Immigrant Women
Economic Empowerment for Immigrant Women

Profiles

Featured
AI - The Future of City Planning
AI - The Future of City Planning
Startup Visa Profile: Salil Mehendale
Startup Visa Profile: Salil Mehendale

Meet Salil Mehendale, CEO of Indocan Digital Inc., the new powerhouse in the digital transformation industry that promises limitless possibilities for any business.

Startup Visa Success Story: Pavel Gupta
Startup Visa Success Story: Pavel Gupta

Pavel Gupta runs a rapidly-growing data science company, founded in Bangalore and locating its Canadian operation right here in Fredericton, NB.

Startup Visa Success Story: Shail Niazi
Startup Visa Success Story: Shail Niazi

Shail Niazi started The Talent Games to help employers engage their workforce from the moment their workers apply for a job. The Talent Games provides applicants with a gamified experience, and employers with easy-to-evaluate insights about their talent pool.

Ignite Spotlight: The Dandy Paint Lounge
Ignite Spotlight: The Dandy Paint Lounge

The Dandy Paint Lounge is a place in Fredericton where aspiring, amateur and pro painters alike can find their voice on the canvas (or skateboard deck, or vinyl record)

Ignite Spotlight: Saffron Indian Foods
Ignite Spotlight: Saffron Indian Foods

Kumar Uprety is bringing a new palette of flavours to Fredericton. The first in our Ignite Spotlight series, Saffron Indian Foods is one of many businesses bringing new life and energy to Fredericton’s economy.