A Celebration of Local Entrepreneurship The Bridges to Better Business event, hosted by the Small Business Enterprise Centre (SBEC), is gearing up for its 15th annual celebration, and this year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever. The event is on September 26th at the Elgin County Railway Museum (225 Wellington St., St Thomas) starting at 5 pm. This evening is more than just a gathering; it’s a cornerstone of community spirit, bringing together small business owners, industry leaders, and community members in a vibrant celebration of entrepreneurship. Sarah Noble, Manager of Marketing and Communications for St. Thomas Economic Development, is particularly excited about this milestone. “Bridges to Better Business is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year! Can you believe it? This event has become a community highlight, yet in my mind, it remains somewhat an undiscovered gem,” she says. The event, open to everyone — not just those in the business community — aims to celebrate the achievements of local entrepreneurs while fostering connections that contribute to the strength and vibrancy of Elgin County and St. Thomas. The night’s festivities will feature the TASTE Elgin and St. Thomas Food Showcase, a crowd favourite that replaces the traditional sit-down dinner with a dynamic, interactive experience. Sarah explains: “The TASTE Food Showcase is honestly so much fun — it’s a unique experience where you can sample your way across the entire county in one magical place. Imagine a local version of Epcot, right here at home!” This format not only offers a culinary journey through the region’s finest flavours but also encourages mingling and conversations, making it a social highlight.
A key element of the evening is the presentation of awards to 14 outstanding local businesses, recognizing their contributions to the community. “Taking the opportunity to acknowledge the incredible accomplishments of our small business community is vital,” Sarah shares. These awards celebrate everything from young entrepreneurs just starting out to long-established businesses that have become pillars of the community. The recognition is more than just a pat on the back; it’s an inspiration for others to pursue their own entrepreneurial dreams. This year’s event also features a special performance by Canadian music icon, Steven Page, adding a layer of entertainment that’s sure to make the evening unforgettable. “We are thrilled to have Steven Page join us for this special occasion,” Sarah notes. His performance is expected to create an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie that resonates with the spirit of the event.
“This is such a special event, and it’s unique every year,” says Sarah. Whether you’re a small business owner, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply a community member looking for a night of good food, great music, and inspiring stories, Bridges to Better Business offers something for everyone.
Tickets are available now at sbecinnocation.ca/bridges.
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Page 4 Hometown St. Thomas • September 2024
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