Sometimes in my line of work I get to meet truly remarkable people. To be honest I’ve met my fair share here in Wellington County and many of those people are in the business community.
This week I sat down with Matt McCoy and Michael Sutton of the Canadian BBQ Boys.
These 21-year-olds are in their fourth year at the University of Guelph and have already developed their barbecue business well enough that Jim Treliving offered them the deal they were seeking on last week’s episode of Dragon’s Den on CBC.
I don’t know about you, but in my fourth year of university I was thinking about the sweet summer vacation I was going to take, not expanding my already-successful business.
The Canadian BBQ Boys began because Mike and Matt thought Mike’s parents were overcharged for their barbecue cleaning service so they decided to start their own service. Now they’ve expanded across Ontario and employ students from May to August.
Check out the story online and for the full feature make sure to get a copy of the spring issue of Business Leader in April.
Matt and Mike are not the first young local entrepreneurs to make a deal with Jim Treliving on Dragon’s Den. Elora brothers Luke, Mason and Jesse Hambly made a deal with Jim on the Feb. 1, 2018 episode of Dragon’s Den for their fruit water bottle company Pressa Bottle. They too are in their 20s.
Thanks for putting our area on the map, Canadian BBQ Boys and Pressa Bottle. What a great showcase of the talented youth in and around Wellington County.
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Speaking of awards, make sure to check out your local chamber of commerce for upcoming award opportunities. The Centre Wellington Chamber has opened its Awards of Excellent nominations. The window closes on March 8 so don’t miss your opportunity to honour area businesses, individuals and organizations.
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The government of Ontario is also asking for the input when it comes to tourism. Take the opportunity to have your opinions and ideas heard whether you’re a tourism business or stakeholder, a student or a visitor. Destination Ontario (a Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport agency) is asking for input (by Feb. 28) at tontario.ca/tourismstrategy.
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There’s a new business in Fergus that offers adventure for everyone and is a great tourism draw. CK Maggs Adventures Ltd. offers packages including anything from learning how to kayak to taking a cycling tour. For more information visit ckmaggsadventures.com.
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Apart from wanting to get out and enjoy winter activities, the recent cold weather also puts me in the mood for organization. If you too are in the mood for a room switch up why not take a look at Whiskey Jack Painters. They are ready to take on residential, commercial and agricultural projects. Check them out at whiskeyjackpainters.com.
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Don’t forget to email questions/news tips to businessleader@wellingtonadvertiser.com.
