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My Items I'm a title. Click here to edit me. Pier Five Turns Five: A Landmark End-of-Year Celebration and the Launch of Pier Five Studios On November 29, Pier Five marked a major milestone with our biggest event to date, celebrating five years of building, creating, and pushing culture forward. What began as an anniversary celebration quickly became something much bigger: a full-scale showcase of our creative capabilities and the first public announcement of Pier Five Studios, our new agency. With 200 guests in attendance, the night was a resounding success and a defining moment in our journey. An Immersive Brand Experience The event was designed as a living demonstration of what Pier Five can deliver, blending brand, culture, and experience into one cohesive environment. The space was filled with a variety of brand activations, each contributing to the energy and narrative of the night: Alcoholic bars hosted by Great Estates, Banditos Mexican Lager & Coco Rum Fast Magic delivered a custom sticker bar featuring new designs and exclusive collaborations Ho Lei Fook elevated the evening with Hong Kong–inspired fusion small bites A game zone arcade by PUMA and Pier Five brought playful competition into the space and dozens of incredible prizes to be won An interactive photo booth by Intak Printing captured the night in real time A non-alc hydration zone powered by VOSS, Well Juices and Electrolit. Every element was intentionally designed to spark interaction, discovery, and connection. Five Years of Pier Five At the heart of the evening was a moment of reflection. Guests were treated to a five-year recap video , highlighting the evolution of Pier Five, from its early days to the platform it has become today. The video served not only as a look back, but as a bridge to what comes next. Introducing Pier Five Studios At the end of the recap, we made our first public announcement of Pier Five Studios , our new agency arm of Pier Five. This event was the largest and most ambitious showcase we have ever produced, and it was by design. It represented a clear statement of intent: Pier Five Studios is here , and we are ready to build world-class brand experiences, creative campaigns, and cultural moments for our partners. From concept to execution, the night embodied the full spectrum of our capabilities. Looking Ahead to 2026 This End-of-Year celebration was more than a party. It was a milestone, a proof point, and a launchpad. We are incredibly grateful to our partners, collaborators, and community who showed up and helped make the night unforgettable. As we close out this chapter and look ahead, we are energized and focused on building in 2026. More The AI Studio: How Pier Five and HP Canada Empowered Canadian Small Businesses with AI To kick off small business month in Canada, Pier Five and HP Canada came together in Toronto to host The AI Studio , a one-of-a-kind workshop experience designed to help Canadian small business owners discover how AI and HP’s Next Gen AI PCs can transform the way they work, create, and grow. The event welcomed 20 entrepreneurs and founders from industries including hospitality, health, media, fashion, tech, retail and restaurant for a day of hands-on learning, collaboration, and innovation. Every detail of the experience was crafted around real challenges and opportunities shared by attendees in a pre-event survey, ensuring that each moment was personalized, relevant, and actionable. Swipe through images The day unfolded through two interactive sessions that reflected the dual nature of entrepreneurship, the balance between operations and creativity. The first session focused on productivity and operations, helping business owners learn how to integrate AI into their day-to-day tasks, streamline workflows, and unlock new efficiencies. The second session shifted gears toward creative strategy and marketing, offering insights into how AI can support content creation, copywriting, and campaign planning for founders looking to amplify their brand stories. During the sessions, attendees were invited to explore HP’s Next Gen AI PCs and devices, guided by HP Commercial Category Business Manager, Towen Chrea, who demonstrated the power of AI-driven hardware in real time. From adaptive tools that anticipate workflow needs to features that make creative work more intuitive, the demos showcased how HP is reimagining what’s possible for small businesses in the age of AI. Beyond the learning, The AI Studio offered what every entrepreneur values most; connection. Guests shared experiences, swapped insights, and formed new relationships. They also took part in professional portrait sessions to elevate their personal brands and left with co-branded Pier Five x HP Canada merch as a reminder of the day’s inspiration. Swipe through images Ultimately, The AI Studio wasn’t just an event, it was a celebration of Canadian entrepreneurship and a glimpse into the future of work. It gave small business owners the knowledge, confidence, and tools to embrace AI not as a buzzword, but as a genuine growth partner. Pier Five and HP Canada are proud to have built this experience together, supporting the small business community, empowering innovation, and continuing to champion the incredible founders shaping Canada’s creative economy. More Small Business Activation Grant Runner Up: Yueh Tung Restaurant Introducing Yueh Tung Restaurant, the runner up recipient of the Pier Five & Intak Printing Activation Grant! Owners: Jeanette & Joanna Liu Location: Toronto, ON Discover Yueh Tung online: Website // Instagram About Yueh Tung Restaurant Yueh Tung is Canada’s oldest Hakka Chinese restaurant, serving Toronto since 1986 from the heart of Old Chinatown. Recently, Jeanette & Joanna's parents officially handed the business over to them and they've stepped in during one of the most difficult economic climates to try to carry forward everything their parents built. They introduced Toronto city to delicacies like Chili Chicken and Manchurian Chicken and worked tirelessly for decades. Now, as second-generation owners, Jeanette & Joanna are working to preserve this legacy, reintroduce Yueh Tung to the public, and sharing the untold story of their family and culture through food, design, and storytelling. What is your vision with the grant funds and support from Pier Five & Intak Printing? Our vision with the grant funds and support from Pier Five & Intak Printing is to host a special dinner experience that brings together local customers, media, and municipal leaders to celebrate the history and heritage of Toronto’s Old Chinatown. This event will help spark renewed awareness and pride in the neighborhood we’ve been part of for decades. In addition, the grant will support a refresh of Yueh-Tung’s branding, from menus to signage, to better reflect our family story and the vibrant Chinatown community we represent. It’s an opportunity to honour our roots while inviting a new generation to connect with the culture, food, and history that define who we are. How will this grant help you realize your long term goals? This activation is a key step in our long-term vision to preserve and grow Yueh Tung, not just as a restaurant, but as a cultural landmark. We want to create a cohesive brand experience that clearly communicates who we are, where we come from, and why this place matters. The grant will allow us to reintroduce Yueh Tung to a new generation while reconnecting with longtime customers who may not know we're still here. It will help stabilize our business, strengthen community recognition, and lay the foundation for a sustainable future so we can continue sharing Hakka food, honour our parents’ legacy, and ensure this story lives on in our city. Photos supplied by Yueh Tung Restaurant, BlogTo & TorontoLife Learn more about the Pier Five & Intak Printing Activation Grant and discover the other recipients here . More Small Business Activation Grant Runner Up: Stimmie Introducing Stimmie, the runner up recipient of the Pier Five & Intak Printing Activation Grant! Founder: Steph Nightingale Location: Toronto, ON Discover Stimmie online: Website // Instagram About Stimmie Stimmie is an oral care disruptor on a mission to end single-use toothpicks and improve gum health sustainably. With deep clinical roots and strong design sensibilities, Stimmie has proven that it is solving a real need. In just one year since launch, the brand has seen traction with features in CNN, Porter Airlines, and multiple sell-throughs at "better for you" retailers across major cities such as New York and Toronto. What is your vision with the grant funds and support from Pier Five & Intak Printing? Our vision is to create a culture-forward pop-up experience in Toronto that brings the world of Stimmie to life. The grant will enable us to push the boundaries of our design and experiential assets, introducing larger-scale formats, innovative materials, and hands-on product sampling that wouldn’t be possible otherwise. This activation will drive real-time consumer testing, social media buzz, and deeper brand engagement as we continue building momentum in the market. How will this grant help you realize your long term goals? Drawing our current community to this unique pop-up experience will build brand loyalty and connect with our customers. These types of activations typically capture the attention of NEW customers which is always both a short and long term business goal. We'll be able to build our database, provide more customers with samples which we've seen as a great way to convert people into long-term customers and give them experiences that will excite them to develop social media content and drive organic awareness for our brand. Photos supplied by Stimmie Learn more about the Pier Five & Intak Printing Activation Grant and discover the other recipients here . More Small Business Activation Grant Winner: Grays Introducing Grays, the grand prize recipient of the Pier Five & Intak Printing Activation Grant! Founders: Julia Gray & Connor Dudgeon Location: Toronto, ON Discover Grays online: Website // Instagram About Grays Grays is a Toronto-based clothing brand specializing in 100% Ontario made garments (using 100% Ontario wool) and a multi-brand clothing and home goods shop. Their mission is to reconnect consumers with the origins of their textiles, emphasizing transparency, sustainability, and craftsmanship. Grays collaborates with local artisans and mills to produce limited-run collections that celebrate Canadian wool and traditional textile practices. Through their retail space and brand, Julia and Connor aim to create a platform for education, storytelling, and connection, inviting customers to engage with the process behind what they wear and use every day. Whether it’s a jacket made from Ontario wool or a hand-bent steel wine rack, every item at Grays embodies the belief that knowing the maker and the materials matters. What is your vision with the grant funds and support from Pier Five & Intak Printing? With support from Pier Five and Intak Printing, our vision is to bring the story of Ontario wool to life through a special event that blends art, education, and hands-on engagement. We'll showcase the journey from farm to finished garment through a gallery exhibit, creative talks, and interactive demonstrations, giving our community a deeper appreciation for local textiles, craftsmanship, and the people behind them. We also want to integrate other aligned elements of natural craft into the experience, including natural Ontario wines and farm-to-table food for guests to enjoy, creating a holistic and immersive celebration of local artistry. How will this grant help you realize your long term goals? This grant helps us take a major step toward our long-term goals by giving us the platform to share our story and values with a wider audience in Toronto. It allows us to showcase why we focus on local textiles and ethical production, which is something we've never had the budget to do at this scale. By amplifying the full narrative of our process, from farm to mill to maker, we can deepen community connections, raise awareness about regenerative farming and Canadian wool, and lay the groundwork for national and international growth. This activation is a pivotal moment in our journey to establish Grays as a recognized leader in sustainable, locally made clothing. Photos supplied by Grays Learn more about the Pier Five & Intak Printing Activation Grant and discover the runner up recipients here . More Pier Five’s Mental Health Mixer: A Space to Reset, Reflect, and Connect This past week, Pier Five hosted its very first Mental Health Mixer, a fresh kind of event created to blend wellness, creativity, and meaningful connection into one intentional gathering. This wasn’t your typical networking party. Instead, it was a space designed to slow down, check in with yourself, and engage in real conversations with others navigating the ups and downs of life. The event welcomed 50 passionate creatives, entrepreneurs, and community members who showed up ready to be present and open. From the moment the mixer began, there was a genuine energy of warmth and vulnerability that set the tone for the afternoon. To kick things off, guests were guided through a calming breathwork session, helping everyone center themselves and settle into the space. This mindful start paved the way for a powerful panel discussion featuring two incredible voices in mental health: Yanal Dhallieh, founder of Peace Collective , and therapist and podcast host Makena Arntsen from Don’t Worry It’s Confidential . Their candid conversation touched on personal journeys, mental health strategies, and the unique challenges creatives and entrepreneurs face when it comes to self-care. More content to come from that panel on the Pier Five Instagram . Between the thoughtful dialogue, attendees explored wellness activations from local brands PleaseNotes and Health Hut , discovering tools like affirmation journals and curated self-care essentials that support ongoing mental wellbeing. Light refreshments complemented the experience, with sparkling drinks from Barbet , fresh coffee from Itso Coffee , and delicious charcuterie beautifully prepared by MiBowl . These thoughtful touches, provided by local sponsors, made the event feel like a true community celebration. Before leaving, guests received special gifts from Peace Collective and HOKA , small reminders of the day’s intention to care for oneself and each other. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive and many shared how much they appreciated the chance to slow down, connect deeply, and reflect in a safe, welcoming environment. Pier Five’s Mental Health Mixer was more than an event; it was a reminder of the importance of holding space for mental wellness in our busy, creative lives. We are grateful to our partners and sponsors who helped make this possible and look forward to hosting many more gatherings that bring community, creativity, and care together. Stay tuned to the Pier Five Instagram and mailing list for updated on future events! More Mental Movement Day with Pier Five and Puma Brings Toronto’s Creative Community Together for Yoga, Wellness, and Open Conversation On Saturday, May 24, Pier Five and Puma brought Toronto’s creative community together for a powerful afternoon of movement and mindfulness at Kula Yoga . Mental Movement Day , an intimate wellness experience for 25 creatives, entrepreneurs, and small business owners, blended yoga, thoughtful conversation, and community building into one energizing and inspiring event. From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere was set for connection and care. Each attendee was gifted Puma workout and yoga gear, which quickly became a highlight of the experience; functional, stylish, and perfect for the afternoon’s yoga session. Before class began, Electrolit provided refreshing energy drinks, helping participants stay hydrated and energized for the flow ahead. Led by a certified yoga instructor, the class encouraged participants to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with themselves through mindful movement. In a city as fast-paced as Toronto, the opportunity to pause and reset in a beautiful, welcoming studio like Kula Yoga was deeply appreciated. But the day didn’t end with just movement, it evolved into something even more meaningful. After class, Pier Five hosted a roundtable discussion focused on mental health, burnout, and strategies for managing busy, often overwhelming schedules. What made this part of the experience so special was the openness and honesty in the room. Attendees were encouraged to share their own tips, challenges, and stories in a judgment-free space, creating an atmosphere of empathy, support, and community. For many, Mental Movement Day was a much-needed reminder that taking care of your mental health is just as important as staying physically active. It also reinforced Pier Five and Puma’s shared commitment to supporting entrepreneurs and creatives, both professionally, and personally. As one of several ongoing collaborations between Pier Five and Puma, this event underscored the power of community-focused wellness programming. The blend of movement, meaningful conversation, and high-quality gear made for a standout afternoon that left everyone feeling refreshed, motivated, and connected. If you are interested in getting involved with Pier Five events, send us an email at community@pier-five.com . More A Spring Clean-Up Day to Remember This past weekend, more than 70 creatives and entrepreneurs in our community came together to make a meaningful difference in our city. Hosted in partnership with our friends at Lost & Found and Sonndr , the Pier Five Community Clean-Up Day was more than just a feel-good networking event. It was a powerful reminder of what can happen when community shows up, rolls up its sleeves, and gets to work. With blue skies above and energy high, volunteers gathered at Sonndr, a local-favourite right above trinity Bellwoods Park, for free coffee and clean up gear before spreading out across the park to clean up ahead of the upcoming summer season. This clean-up day wasn't just about waste removal, it was about building pride in where we live and making space for connection. It was about being outside, doing something hands-on, and creating a ripple effect of impact. Thank you to everyone who came out, brought good vibes, and made this event such a success. And big love to Lost & Found and Sonndr for being the perfect co-hosts, offering coffee, warmth, and a hub for connection. We’re already thinking about the next one. Until then, stay connected, stay community-minded, and stay BIG on the little things that make a big difference. To learn more about upcoming Pier Five events, follow us on Instagram ! More 5 Essential Tax Strategies for Small Business Owners to Save Money Managing your small business taxes effectively can mean the difference between keeping more of your hard-earned revenue or overpaying the government. We partnered with tax expert Mark Solis, Founder of Solis Financial , to bring you five essential tax-saving strategies for small business owners that can help maximize savings and build long-term financial security. 1. Incorporate Your Business & Pay Yourself Smartly If your business is generating consistent revenue, incorporation can help you take advantage of lower corporate tax rates. Instead of taking all earnings as a salary, consider a mix of salary and dividends to lower your personal tax bill. A salary is subject to payroll taxes but provides RRSP contribution room, while dividends are taxed at a lower rate but do not generate RRSP room. This strategy provides flexibility and can help optimize your tax situation. 2. Maximize Small Business Tax Deductions Every eligible business tax deduction you claim reduces your taxable income. Common small business tax write-offs include: Home office expenses (if you work from home) Vehicle costs (if used for business) Advertising and marketing Office supplies and business meals Tracking and categorizing expenses properly ensures you don’t leave money on the table when filing your business taxes. 3. Use an Individual Pension Plan (IPP) or RRSP to Reduce Taxable Income Saving for retirement while lowering your small business taxes is a win-win. If you’re incorporated, an Individual Pension Plan (IPP) allows for higher contribution limits than an RRSP and is a great tax-deferral tool. If you’re a sole proprietor, contributing to an RRSP helps reduce taxable income while building long-term wealth. 4. Set Up a Health Spending Account (HSA) for Tax-Free Medical Expenses Health and dental expenses can add up, but with a Health Spending Account (HSA), you can cover these costs 100% tax-free. HSAs allow small business owners to deduct medical expenses as a business expense, reducing taxes while providing essential health benefits for themselves and their employees. However, to qualify, business owners must earn more than half of their income from the business. Be sure to review all HSA eligibility criteria to ensure compliance. 5. Split Income with Family Members to Reduce Your Tax Burden If your spouse or children help out in your business, consider paying them a reasonable salary for their work. This strategy shifts income to lower tax brackets and helps reduce your overall tax burden. Just ensure their compensation aligns with the work performed to meet CRA requirements. About Mark Solis – Small Business Tax Expert With over a decade of experience in the financial services industry, Mark Solis founded Solis Financial Services to help Canadians maximize tax savings and achieve financial security through proven insurance and investment strategies. His career began as an Associate Financial Advisor with The Co-operators, where he eventually managed his own office before launching his independent brokerage. Today, he partners with Canada's top insurance and investment companies to deliver the best financial planning solutions to his clients. More Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: Mastercard x Pier Five's 2024/25 Priceless Experience Last week, Mastercard and Pier Five hosted the highly anticipated Priceless Experience in Toronto, a transformative gathering for the 2024 Mastercard Small Business Fund recipients. This exclusive event was designed to connect the 10 exceptional women entrepreneurs with each other, Mastercard experts, and experienced mentors, providing them with the tools and inspiration to take their businesses to the next level. Each recipient had already received $10,000 in funding, but the Priceless Experience was about more than just financial support—it was about fostering community, learning from industry leaders, and gaining insights that are often inaccessible to small business owners. Entrepreneurship can be an isolating journey, and taking time away from daily operations is challenging. That’s why Pier Five, a strong advocate for meaningful connections, collaborated with Mastercard to create an experience that balanced learning, networking, and inspiration. (Swipe for photos) The Mastercard Small Business Fund recipients were flown into Toronto from across the country, with accommodations provided at the luxurious Le Germain Hotel for a two-night stay. The experience kicked off on Monday evening with a warm and welcoming reception at the hotel, allowing the entrepreneurs to connect with one another, as well as the Mastercard and Pier Five teams, in an intimate setting over drinks and conversation. Tuesday was a full day of insightful programming designed to help these entrepreneurs refine their strategies, expand their knowledge, and strengthen their businesses. The day began with a breakfast gathering, setting the stage for an engaging and interactive workshop led by two-time Canada’s Top Female Entrepreneur of the Year, Kelsey Kitsch. She guided the business owners through key themes of growth, leadership, and team-building, sharing actionable advice drawn from her own experiences. (Swipe for photos) Following the workshop, Pier Five facilitated a dynamic roundtable session featuring three rotational group discussions on essential business themes: marketing and brand visibility, customer loyalty and retention, and financial sustainability and growth. These sessions provided a space for the entrepreneurs to exchange ideas, ask questions, and gain targeted insights tailored to their unique business challenges. (Swipe for photos) After an incredible lunch at Bar Ardo, the participants attended an inspiring innovation panel featuring industry leaders and small business experts, including Luchila Mado of Digital Main Street, Jessica Pachis of Fiserv, Amber Mac, a public figure and tech entrepreneur, Nishant Raina, the Head of Small Business at Mastercard, and Andrea Grand, the founder of Barbet and a 2022 Small Business Fund recipient. The panel covered a range of topics, from leveraging digital tools to enhancing customer experiences, providing real-world advice to help the entrepreneurs sustain and scale their businesses. (Swipe for photos) To cap off this incredible experience, the entire group was treated to an unforgettable evening at the Toronto Raptors game in the Mastercard suite. This celebratory moment allowed the entrepreneurs to unwind, strengthen their new connections, and enjoy a well-deserved break from their daily business responsibilities. The Mastercard x Pier Five Priceless Experience was more than just an event—it was a testament to both organizations’ commitment to supporting small businesses and fostering community among female entrepreneurs. By creating a space for connection, education, and inspiration, this initiative reinforced the power of collaboration and the importance of investing in the future of women-led businesses. As these 10 remarkable entrepreneurs return to their respective businesses, they do so with renewed confidence, valuable insights, and a network of peers and mentors who will continue to support them on their journeys. The impact of the Priceless Experience will undoubtedly extend far beyond these two days, shaping the next chapter of their entrepreneurial success. Learn more about the Mastercard & Pier Five Small Business Fund, and discover the other 2024 recipients here . More 2024 Recipient: BocoBoco Explore the Mastercard x Pier Five Small Business Fund Introducing BocoBoco, one of the ten recipients of the Mastercard x Pier Five Small Business Fund 2024! Founder: Lauren Rochat Location: Montreal, QC Discover BocoBoco online: Website // Instagram About BocoBoco (EN) BocoBoco is an eco-responsible online grocery store focused on simplifying access to local products while reducing waste. They exclusively partner with local, organic producers to offer food and household items, all packaged in reusable and refundable jars. Since its launch, BocoBoco has prevented over 10 tons of waste through its jar return system. The company prides itself on transparency, working with suppliers who meet strict criteria such as local production and waste reduction, and over 60% of its suppliers are women-led businesses. Through its efforts, BocoBoco fosters a sustainable, fair economy while supporting small producers, artisans, and community initiatives. (FR) BocoBoco est une épicerie en ligne écoresponsable qui simplifie l'accès à des produits locaux tout en réduisant les déchets. Ils collaborent exclusivement avec des producteurs locaux et biologiques pour offrir des produits alimentaires et ménagers, tous emballés dans des bocaux réutilisables et consignés. Depuis son lancement, BocoBoco a permis d’éviter plus de 10 tonnes de déchets grâce à son système de contenants consignés. L'entreprise se distingue par sa transparence et travaille avec des fournisseurs qui respectent des critères stricts, tels que la production locale et la réduction des déchets, et plus de 60 % de ses fournisseurs sont des entreprises dirigées par des femmes. Grâce à ses efforts, BocoBoco favorise une économie durable et équitable tout en soutenant les petits producteurs, artisans et initiatives communautaires. How will the fund make an impact with your business? (EN) We will use the $10,000 to enhance our impact through three main initiatives: firstly by improving sales by upgrading our CRM system to better understand and segment customers, which would help us personalize communications and encourage frequent purchases. We would also allocate funds to create visual communication materials and awareness campaigns to educate our community about zero waste, local shopping, and organic products. Lastly, we plan to partner with other small local businesses for contests, expanding our reach while supporting others. These initiatives would help us grow sustainably, increase our environmental and social impact, and attract new customers. (FR) Nous utiliserons les 10 000 $ pour renforcer notre impact à travers trois initiatives principales : tout d'abord, en améliorant les ventes grâce à la mise à niveau de notre système CRM pour mieux comprendre et segmenter nos clients, ce qui nous aidera à personnaliser nos communications et encourager des achats fréquents. Nous allouerons également des fonds pour créer des supports de communication visuelle et des campagnes de sensibilisation afin d'éduquer notre communauté sur le zéro déchet, l'achat local et les produits biologiques. Enfin, nous prévoyons de nous associer à d'autres petites entreprises locales pour organiser des concours, afin d'élargir notre portée tout en soutenant d'autres entreprises. Ces initiatives nous aideraient à croître de manière durable, à accroître notre impact environnemental et social, et à attirer de nouveaux clients. What is your long term goal for the company? (EN) Our long-term vision is to become a national leader in sustainable distribution while staying true to its local roots and community commitment. In the next 3 to 5 years, the company aims to expand its services across several Canadian provinces and offer a nationwide zero-waste service. By replicating our sustainable grocery model in new cities, starting with one expansion within three years, we plan to further grow into two additional regions over the following two years. The company's proven system of reusable containers and efficient logistics ensures an eco-friendly solution with a high level of service, supporting both local producers and environmentally conscious consumers. (FR) Notre vision à long terme est de devenir un leader national dans la distribution durable tout en restant fidèle à nos racines locales et à notre engagement envers la communauté. Dans les 3 à 5 prochaines années, l'entreprise prévoit d'étendre ses services dans plusieurs provinces canadiennes et d'offrir un service zéro déchet à l'échelle nationale. En répliquant notre modèle d'épicerie durable dans de nouvelles villes, en commençant par une première expansion dans les trois ans, nous prévoyons de nous développer davantage dans deux autres régions au cours des deux années suivantes. Le système éprouvé de contenants réutilisables et de logistique efficace de l'entreprise garantit une solution écologique avec un niveau de service élevé, soutenant à la fois les producteurs locaux et les consommateurs soucieux de l'environnement. Learn more about the Mastercard & Pier Five Small Business Fund, and discover the other 2024 recipients here . More 2024 Recipient: Lesley Hampton Explore the Mastercard x Pier Five Small Business Fund Introducing Lesley Hampton, one of the ten recipients of the Mastercard x Pier Five Small Business Fund 2024! Founder: Lesley Hampton Location: Toronto, ON Discover Lesley Hampton online: Website // Instagram About Lesley Hampton Lesley Hampton is a luxury fashion brand that blends Indigenous artistry with contemporary design, celebrating cultural heritage while emphasizing mental wellness and body neutrality. The brand has four key pillars: direct-to-consumer, custom design services, corporate partnerships, and wholesale. Lesley Hampton offers both ready-to-wear pieces and bespoke designs tailored for clients seeking unique, ethically made fashion, while its corporate collaborations promote Indigenous representation across industries. With wholesale stockists in New York, Toronto, and Seattle, the brand is expanding its reach and visibility. Additionally, Lesley Hampton's founder contributes to the brand’s success through public speaking, modelling, styling, and event coordination, building strong relationships within the fashion community. How will the fund make an impact with your business? With the $10,000 from the Mastercard x Pier Five Fund, I plan to expand my team to support the growth of Lesley Hampton, especially as I work to introduce a more accessible mid-tier collection. The funds will allow me to hire an operations manager, a customer service representative, and a marketing specialist, all of whom will play key roles in refining our processes, enhancing customer relationships, and increasing awareness of our new offerings. This team expansion will help streamline our operations and improve our capacity to produce and market a collection that retains the luxury quality of my designs but is more affordable for a broader audience. By enhancing our supply chain and marketing efforts, I can ensure that we maintain the integrity of my brand while introducing Indigenous-designed fashion at a more accessible price point. This new line will further our mission to amplify Indigenous representation in fashion and reach more customers who connect with our values of inclusivity, cultural pride, and mental wellness. What is your long term goal for the company? Over the next 3-5 years, my goal for Lesley Hampton is to establish the brand as a leading voice in Canadian and Indigenous fashion, with a strong focus on representation and inclusivity. I aim to showcase at major international fashion weeks, starting with New York Fashion Week, and become one of the first Indigenous designers to headline a solo show. Alongside this, I plan to invest in community initiatives to support the next generation of Indigenous designers and foster collaborations to amplify our collective voices. Ultimately, I want to create a lasting legacy that promotes inclusivity, mental wellness, and cultural pride in the fashion industry. Learn more about the Mastercard & Pier Five Small Business Fund, and discover the other 2024 recipients here . More

July Guest Picks: Music with Jazz Alba Guest: Graphic Artist Jazz Alba "OK so let me preface this by saying that most of what I’m listening to right now is with my son. When I’m working, I’m usually listening to podcasts and a couple songs here or there." That Chapter "A YouTube series on unsolved crimes and murder mysteries" True to Size Podcast - Canada Got Sole A podcast on all things sneakers by Toronto's Canada Got Sole group. The Channel 8 Podcast - Sean Go A podcast by Toronto based sneaker content creator Sean Go "Heartbreak Anniversary" - Giveon Leave the Door Open - Bruno Mars & Andersen Paak Check out all of our guest picks for July here and stay tuned to Pier Five for more stories and interviews with the coolest people around.

Keeping It Authentic With Katherine Johnsen As the opportunities and the audience grow, it can be easy for one to find themselves being pulled in a million directions with outside influences taking over. For Katherine Johnsen, creator and VP of Growth and Partnerships for Counter Culture agency, she has learned the importance of staying true to herself and ensuring that you grow with authenticity and passion. This has led to countless incredible experiences and the creation of lifelong relationships that Katherine attributes to her happiness and success. We got the chance to speak with Katherine about all of this and learn some of her secrets to building the next generation of opportunity for creators and brands. Read the full conversation below. Hi Katherine! Thanks for chatting with us today. For those who don't know, can you tell us a little about yourself? Excited to chat! So, my name is Katherine Johnsen and I'm the VP, Growth & Partnerships of Counter Culture agency which creates culturally relevant program with creators and for brands, amongst many other things. I've been with Counter Culture for 2 years and before that I spent a lot of time leading partnerships for some of the biggest tech and startup conferences in North America. I'm also a creator myself and on the brand side, have worked with tons of brands in tech, fashion and footwear, food and CPG so I like to think that I know the landscape pretty well and that can really help our partners. Throughout your time in the tech partnerships world and now at Counter Culture, has there been anything that you have learned that is a common thread across it all? Definitely! The biggest thing is that your relationships are everything. I spent a lot of time with company founders in the tech space and bringing that time into partnerships, I've seen how much those connections that you build can lead to success. I'm constantly trying to expand my network and stay connected with those who are close to me. That's a great point! As the network builds, how do you always stay in touch with so many people? I travel a lot and one of the guys I worked closely with at Microsoft who was one of the Top 5 People To Know in the NY startup scene used to tell me to divide my flights into 5 minute intervals and use that time to reach out to as many people as you can, just to check in on them. Just give when you need nothing and then when you need to tap people, they're more than happy to help you because you maintained a relationship there. With all of the different projects and travel, how do you stay organized? My calendar is everything and I'm a big advocate of time blocking. I allocate different blocks of time in my schedule to focusing on certain tasks without distractions and that's very helpful. I also make sure to prioritize. We all have so much going on but if you can prioritize 3 tasks for the week and get them done, then that's a win. I love this quote which is, "you don't always have to climb the whole staircase. You just need to take the first step." Oooh love that! As a creator yourself and a coach so many other creators out there, what is one piece of advice you stand by? I'm a firm believe that if you like something, then it's cool. I think it's so important to shed the weight of other people's opinions and just focus on liking what you like. A through line to all of the coolest people in our lives is that they are all authentic to themselves. What we often tell creators is that, by just looking at what other people are doing and looking at other trends, you will fall flat. We always say just listen to "what makes me excited to wake up in the morning?" and if you share that, I think it builds authentic community. That definitely shows in your content! For sure! My channels are really just an extension of my daily life. I like to share what I'm doing as opposed to doing things to share them. Love that! Lastly, on the business side, what advice would you give to creators looking to make a living out of this? 2 things! The first is when working with brands, be mindful of your value and your identity and always stay authentic to that. Brands will often come in with their own idea of how they think something should look and will try to use money to push that forward. The key is finding a way to make it your own - that will be the sign of a good partnership - and not being afraid to walk away if it's not a good fit. Secondly, it's important to think about your long term goals and understand the best ways for you to build your community and ultimately drive revenue. Partnerships are just one way to make money but there are so many other ways to expand your channels and revenue streams. Maybe that's building a mailing list, maybe it's connecting through events or selling product. At the end of the day though, the biggest thing is always prioritize your community. The people out there that are able to do all of these cool things as their full-time job are able to do so because of the community that they built. Make sure to check out Katherine and Counter Culture on Instagram and keep it locked to Pier Five for more conversations with cool creatives and industry leaders!

Pier Five Community Canvas For Kuwalla Tee In the first edition of Community Canvas , Pier Five brought together an inspiring group of talent for a unique editorial lookbook, with looks by Kuwalla Tee , a Montreal based fashion brand designed to help those express their creative authenticity. This edition highlights a diverse mix of innovators, each representing the creative spirit and entrepreneurial drive that fuels the community. Featuring Glory Allan, an online content creator teaching people how to make their own clothes, the lookbook explores the intersection of fashion, craftsmanship, and self-expression. Adria Kain, a multidisciplinary musician, singer, and artist, adds a rich layer of sound and visual artistry to the canvas. Vintage lovers will be captivated by Post Design, a curated business blending style and sustainability through furniture. Photographer Teaunna Gray, who also owns her own studio Of Sorts, captures the essence of beauty through simplicity. At the heart of it all is Pier Five, the founders of the Community Canvas series, who continue to champion creativity, collaboration, and connection. Sponsored by Kuwalla Tee, this campaign is a celebration of both fashion and community, with every look styled in Kuwalla Tee's new Fall/Winter 2024 collection —showcasing the power of creative partnerships in bringing new stories to life. Discover the stars of Community Canvas Vol. 1 and all of the looks below: Glory Allan Andre Chin, aka Glory Allan, is a passionate fashion designer dedicated to empowering others to embrace creativity. Through his work, he encourages people to kickstart their hobbies and discover the joy of making. Inspired by the art of creation, whether in designing clothes or crafting engaging content, Glory Allan thrives on bringing ideas to life. His work serves as a bridge between fashion and education, fostering creativity and self-expression. Adria Kain Adria Kain is a multifaceted artist and singer known for her soulful voice and authentic storytelling. With recent success in the music industry, Adria has re-emerged with renewed focus, sharing both her music and creative journey. In July, she expanded her artistic reach by launching a photography and creative direction studio, offering a space that fosters artistic expression and collaboration. Her studio has become a welcoming environment for creatives of all backgrounds, dedicated to inclusivity and supporting the growth of the creative community. Post Design Post Design, founded by JP Guay and Amanda Mota, is a curated studio specializing in unique furniture, objects, and wares. They offer carefully selected pieces that reflect creativity, paired with dynamic spaces and brands. Beyond their collections, Post Design provide furniture rentals, studio bookings for shoots and gatherings, and design services like sourcing, set design, brand pop-ups, and interior staging. At Post Design, they blend design with community to create inspiring spaces. Teaunna Gray Teaunna Gray is an Afro-Indigenous Director and Film Photographer from Toronto. Starting as a curator, she gained recognition through group art shows that support under-represented artists and give back to global communities. Her storytelling reflects her multicultural perspective, prioritizing inclusivity for womxn, people of color, and the Deaf community. As the founder of Of Sorts®, Teaunna creates a space for creatives through events, programs, and studio rentals, encouraging impactful art and dialogue. Pier Five Julian Golden and Jeff Lei are the founders of Pier Five, a community driven organization that offers support to creative entrepreneurs and small business owners. Pier Five's mission is to empower those looking to turn their passions into full-time businesses and careers by hosting unique networking events, fundraising programs and content series across Canada. Pier Five's initiatives have connected thousands of creatives and business owners and is building one of the largest founder networks across the country, shaping culture and driving economic growth. Shop the looks at Kuwalla Tee's website and make sure to follow Pier Five on Instagram for more content with the creative community.

The AI Studio: How Pier Five and HP Canada Empowered Canadian Small Businesses with AI To kick off small business month in Canada, Pier Five and HP Canada came together in Toronto to host The AI Studio , a one-of-a-kind workshop experience designed to help Canadian small business owners discover how AI and HP’s Next Gen AI PCs can transform the way they work, create, and grow. The event welcomed 20 entrepreneurs and founders from industries including hospitality, health, media, fashion, tech, retail and restaurant for a day of hands-on learning, collaboration, and innovation. Every detail of the experience was crafted around real challenges and opportunities shared by attendees in a pre-event survey, ensuring that each moment was personalized, relevant, and actionable. Swipe through images The day unfolded through two interactive sessions that reflected the dual nature of entrepreneurship, the balance between operations and creativity. The first session focused on productivity and operations, helping business owners learn how to integrate AI into their day-to-day tasks, streamline workflows, and unlock new efficiencies. The second session shifted gears toward creative strategy and marketing, offering insights into how AI can support content creation, copywriting, and campaign planning for founders looking to amplify their brand stories. During the sessions, attendees were invited to explore HP’s Next Gen AI PCs and devices, guided by HP Commercial Category Business Manager, Towen Chrea, who demonstrated the power of AI-driven hardware in real time. From adaptive tools that anticipate workflow needs to features that make creative work more intuitive, the demos showcased how HP is reimagining what’s possible for small businesses in the age of AI. Beyond the learning, The AI Studio offered what every entrepreneur values most; connection. Guests shared experiences, swapped insights, and formed new relationships. They also took part in professional portrait sessions to elevate their personal brands and left with co-branded Pier Five x HP Canada merch as a reminder of the day’s inspiration. Swipe through images Ultimately, The AI Studio wasn’t just an event, it was a celebration of Canadian entrepreneurship and a glimpse into the future of work. It gave small business owners the knowledge, confidence, and tools to embrace AI not as a buzzword, but as a genuine growth partner. Pier Five and HP Canada are proud to have built this experience together, supporting the small business community, empowering innovation, and continuing to champion the incredible founders shaping Canada’s creative economy.

July Guest Picks: Books with Jay Yoo of Bolstr Guest: Jay Yoo , founder of Bolstr AntiFragile by Nicholas Taleb Nassim "Counterintuitive insights on the nature of all things. Why nature is our greatest teacher of evolution? It gains from chaos. Humans don't work like that as we accept comfortable positions in life (taking advice from expert "Fragilistas" that make us fragile (although it may not appear that way). Like your doctor, who is the third leading cause of death in America. Ideas on preparing forward by building optionality into your life (dismissing expert news) allow us to benefit from inevitable "black swan" events that are unpredictable and catastrophic to most." Who Owns the Future by Jaron Lenier "All about rebuilding the middle class by humanizing the digital economy. A critical and credible take on creating commerce for all vs. redistributing wealth. The book was written in 2011, and much of what Jaron predicted is coming true. Specifically, how a free digital economy is destroying jobs as new centers of power (Google, Facebook, Snapchat, et al.) make money on our use of their ecosystems and are socially engineering us to stay in them. But what makes their systems valuable does not get an equitable stake (you and me). He lays it all out on how to get paid for making any content (as long as others are viewing it). It's entirely possible with the blockchain, which makes crypto ever more relevant. Importantly, the idea that our world can be automated via tech is a farse; without human influence, it will have no soul. Sorry, Ray Kurzweill and the whole singularity movement. No thanks." A Short History of Progress by Richard Wright "Where are we going? This is the central theme of the book. It's an incredibly illuminating book on impending doom and how man destroys everything. He goes through the history of humans from prehistoric times until the present and how we have destroyed the planet and the lives of millions (approaching billions), all in the pursuit of progress. He examines several civilizations from Neanderthals, Easter Island (an important microcosm), Sumerians, Romans, and Egyptians. Each crippled their existence by overproducing, exhausting resources, and then waging war to expand and gain more. There are no everlasting examples of civilizations, and they all fall victim to their progress. It took 3 million years to go from a stone arrowhead to smelted iron, but only 3,000 years to go from smelt to a nuclear bomb. Where are we going?" Big Bang by Simon Singh "The Origins of The Universe. One of my favorite books that walks through the history of science. I love learning about the cosmos and space but am more interested in how humans figured it out. It's a fascinating account of science's struggle to overcome dogma and human's persistence for truth. But, as important, are the pitfalls of incumbency (egos that stifled scientific progress), to which Einstein both abhorred and fell victim. Incredibly interesting and great for anyone who would like to know the Big Bang theory in layman's terms." 12 Rules for Life by Jordan Peterson "Life is a bitch. Historical, spiritual, and personal antidotes for leading a life of purpose and ultimate happiness. It's more than a self-help book; it's a serious eye-opener on building a relationship with oneself, others, and the world in times of immediate gratification. Fun is fleeting, and joy is work; I welcome this confrontation with what more I can do to be and influence "good."" Check out all of our guest picks for July here and stay tuned to Pier Five for more stories and interviews with the coolest people around.

Dancing Through The Yarn With Trish Andersen Follow your gut and take chances. It will take you everywhere. Such is the case for Georgia based fiber artist, Trish Andersen, whose tufting work has caught the attention of the masses. After over a decade-long career working in a corporate design job in New York, Trish dropped everything to focus on a solo freelance career and follow her entrepreneurial spirit. Years later, after taking a hard look at her jobs and deciding she wanted even more independence, Trish would drop her client work, move back home to Georgia and pursue a daring career as a solo fine artist in rug tufting, a very niche art form that she had little knowledge of at the time; but something about it just felt right. Fast forward to today, Trish is one of the best known tufting fine artists in the game, appealing to the fine art and interior experts all the way to streetwear heads and hypebeasts. All of this success is attributed to Trish’s ability to keep a level head, follow her gut and never stop exploring and we got the chance to go through all of this in a very special conversation. Hey Trish! The first question we have for you is, what was it like moving from New York back to Georgia. It was definitely a little scary because there’s so much opportunity in New York but it just felt right for me. Turns out, Dalton, which is only a few hours away from Savannah where I live now, is the rug capital of the world so the fit isn’t so bad [laughs]. They produce something like 80% of the world’s rugs there which is insane. Wow that’s wild! What do you think it was about tufting that got you hooked (no pun intended)? Tufting is super free flowing with the gun because you can go in any direction you want. You can really jump around your canvas and it was like painting for me which I love. It’s like a dance working with the gun. It also lets me focus on the fine art more and then I can bring in the functional aspect, like with the line of products I have inspired by my fine art, such as the wool rugs and runner rugs, as I want. One of our first discoveries of your work was actually the Runner Rug through Hidden NY, a curation mood board catering to art and streetwear fashion enthusiasts. How does it feel to see your work catch the attention of subcultures like that? Honestly, it blows my mind! I made the runner rug with no intention of selling it. I thought it was cool but not that cool [laughs]. I had no idea that it would catch the attention of consumers in these other groups and I never cared about what people were going to think of it when I made it but it’s really cool to see everyone so into this art form and the pieces that I make. It’s very hard to always fight that evil voice in your head asking “will people like it?” or “is it good enough to share?” but I think because I got into this just for me, I’ve been able to get away from that voice. I’m constantly trying to remind myself to just make what I want to see in the world and tell myself that there are people out there who will be into what I make and eventually I’ll find them. Very true and clearly there are a lot of people who are liking what you are putting out. How did it feel, as someone who’s been making rugs for so long, to see so many people get into rug making during covid? I think it’s super cool. I’m a big “community over competition” kind of person. The process for me has been so beneficial and it’s really great to see other people embracing it. Everyone has their own voice and I think there’s room for us all. It’s been super cool to see how people like Tim who runs tuftinggun.com has grown such a big community and business in the last two years and how social media has really helped it take off. At the end of the day, if we can all add some more softness and joy to the world during quarantine then that’s amazing! What’s your design process like? Do you typically draw things out first and have materials/colours in mind? It’s a little bit of planning and a little bit of free flow. I usually sketch out designs on Procreate which I love. I always had some trouble sketching on paper so working on Procreate on my iPad is amazing and it lets me scale designs which is super helpful. For the colors, I’ll usually have a palette in mind but I'll pull all the colours I think I'm going to use and then visualize them and move them around. Once I’m working on the canvas, I really try to move feely and respond to the piece in the moment. If I plan colours but then don’t think I want to use them, I’ll change them. It’s definitely like a dance. I also like, however, that you have to be decisive as much as it is free flowing. It’s always a challenge because you can only pull out things you don't like so many times before the backing is compromised so it's a mix of free and calculated. How many rolls of yarn do you think you have gone through in the last 4 years? Ha! I have no idea. It must be thousands. I’ll use all different types of wool and I’ll source yarns everywhere. It’s all a precious exercise of locating yarns. I’m using so many different colours and materials which I think creates great texture. Back in September you launched your first reproduced collection which gave general consumers the chance to buy your work. How was that experience for you and were there any learnings that you’ll take with you for future releases? So far the feedback has been really good and the experience has been great. I set things up for the e-comm site so that the orders go out to a factory that makes and ships the items so luckily I don’t have to deal with that. I am still getting familiar with how to handle the customer support side of things the best way possible but so far so good. I think one of the biggest learnings was really around, once everything launched, seeing how much work it can all be for one person and understanding the importance of having a good setup throughout. If I was packing and shipping everything myself it wouldn’t be scalable and would slow down the creative side. I’d say to anyone, make sure you think about the process all the way through before going live. Otherwise, it can be easy to get overwhelmed. Luckily now that I’ve done this though and things are running smoothly, I can start thinking about launching new lines! Oh! What other lines are we talking about? I have a ton of ideas. I’m going to be collaborating with my husband who’s a painter on something and some other projects as well. I’m not a big planner though [laughs]. I kind of just follow what feels good. Living with your husband who is a painter must be super cool on the collaboration side! Ya, it’s super fun. I don’t think I could be with anyone who’s not an artist. We both live and breathe art and we learn a lot from each other too. Any tips for young artists trying different mediums to express themselves? I’d definitely go back to the idea that you have to try to get away from comparing yourself to others and caring what they think. It’s hard with social media but it’s very important. I always say that social media should be for connecting, not comparing. Everyone has their own voice. Follow your gut and what makes you happy and explore that. Find a creative community that you can be a part of. Try to work with other artists. Observe others. Get out there. Be patient and keep putting in the work. Eventually, you’ll get to a point where you can really dictate what you want to do. Lastly, take risks and don’t be afraid of making bad work. It’s required in the art world but that’s also what makes it fun. That’s great advice! Lastly, for those looking to start tufting, where should they look? Honestly, the first thing to do is just Google tufting and watch a ton of videos. I’m actually going to film a workshop next month with Domestika which will be super fun, so watch that too [laughs]. Another great site to check out is Tim’s site that I mentioned earlier, tuftinggun.com . There’s an awesome forum for people posting about their experiences, where they get materials, etc. Everyone is super supportive and willing to share information. It’s a great community! Also, if you are looking to buy gear you can use my code "Trishtufts" for 15% off :) Make sure to check out Trish's Instagram for more news on upcoming projects and releases and keep it locked to Pier Five for more interviews and stories with the coolest entrepreneurs, designers, artists, activists and more.

A Conversation With Blume Bunny & Taran Ghatrora are the founders of Blume, a Canadian self care and period products brand that is building a safe space for young women to "learn, grow and become their badass selves." Bunny & Taran are experts in fundraising and brand building and are recipients of the Forbes 30 Under 30 Award. @blume // @bunny.ghatrora & @taran_smiles Whether for a teen or parents of a teen, what are 5 pieces of advice you’d give to young females as they embark on their journey with puberty? Remember that you're not going through this alone! Everyone has or will go through puberty and what you're experiencing is *normal*!! Keep doing the things that make you feel good, whether this be painting, running, playing sports or riding horses. If you have hobbies you love, keep doing them! Make time for self care! Prioritize it! Keep away from things that don't make you feel good. This could be friends that make you feel bad, social media or other. If it doesn't make you feel good, you don't need it! If you have questions about the changes your body is going through, ask a friend, family member, guardian, teacher, doctor or other adult you feel comfortable speaking to! Many siblings are great friends but you have taken it one step further! What are 5 tips/tricks for running a business with your sibling? Communicate often & clearly. Sometimes it's easy to assume the other person *knows* what you're thinking, and sometimes that is totally the case (one of the benefits of running a biz with a sibling) BUT that's not always the case and can get you into trouble if you lean on short hand communication too often. Prioritize your meetings the same way you would with someone else on your team. Show up on time, be attentive, have an agenda, etc… Set time aside to hang as just siblings! Keep that time separate from work time. Always remember that you're on the same team when it comes the business. You always have each other's backs and you're both rowing in the same direction. Be mindful of the other person's schedule: Running a biz with a sibling can often feel like the two of you do *everything* together, so when/if ever one person has plans or is doing something else, or taking some much needed time off, be sure not to bombard them with work related questions. You have raised some serious money for Blume over the years. What are 5 tips you'd share to someone looking to raise money for their startup? You have to raise money FULL TIME. Tightly pack your meetings into a concentrated period of time and devote all of your energy to this. You ideally will have a co-founder/employee who will keep things running while you're devoting your time to this. Otherwise, this can drag on and diminish your sense of urgency. Ask for a yes or a no! Investors will always say maybe, because they don't want to say no. They want to keep the conversation open and might change their mind. They want to see if someone else invests or something changes. But saying, kindly but firmly, that "I really need a decision from you so I can move on" forces people to make a decision. Create a sense of scarcity. Say up front that you have "X" amount committed (only if you have, of course!) and that there's only this much left in the round. Blume specifically was only looking to raise about 1.5K, and through creating the sense of scarcity, ended up raising more! Be very clear about what impact that money is going to have your business. i.e. "I am doing "X" amount of revenue now, and with this much invested, I'm going to do "Y" amount. It is going to come from these specific channels and my team is going to be this big." Don't just say "I'm going to use the money to grow my business", be hyper-specific! Find a lead investor. People are going to ask you who your lead is, and they want someone to take the lead and start the trend. Tier 1 or Tier 2 investor is best, but also make certain that there's value alignment, that you've checked their references and - if it makes sense for you - ensured that they have follow up capital. What are 5 must-see/try spots when visiting Vancouver? Bike or rollerblade the seawall (a must!) Day trip to Whistler Whytecliff Park or Jericho Beach for a picnic and views! Earnest Ice Cream & Miku Sushi are both amazing Brunch at Jam Cafe! Last but not least, which one of you fits each of the 5 following categories? The Partier - Bunny The Dancer - Both The Clumsy one - Taran The Bookworm - Taran The Foodie. - Both

2024 Recipient: Paintillio Explore the Mastercard x Pier Five Small Business Fund Introducing Paintillio, one of the ten recipients of the Mastercard x Pier Five Small Business Fund 2024! Founders: Lyssa Kayra & Jess Devenport Location: Vancouver, BC Discover Paintillio online: Website // Instagram About Paintillio Since its founding in 2017, Paintillio has been dedicated to creating high-quality, collaborative paint-by-numbers projects that foster community growth through artistic expression. As Canada’s only provider of large-scale, premium paint-by-numbers murals, made possible by proprietary software, Paintillio empowers people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds to contribute to a shared creative goal. These projects build teamwork and a sense of accomplishment, whether at corporate teambuilding events, festivals, or public mural installations sponsored by companies to strengthen local communities. Paintillio’s unique approach has attracted major clients like Coca-Cola, Amazon, and Toyota and earned the company nominations for awards like the BC Small Business of the Year. With support from Mastercard and the Pier Five Fund, Paintillio plans to bring even more communities together through the power of shared artistic expression. How will the fund make an impact with your business? With $10,000 from the Mastercard x Pier Five Fund, Paintillio will be able to scale its production capabilities through the development of an advanced software program. These funds will be used to hire a full-time developer for two to three months to work alongside Paintillio’s current developer, enhancing the software to meet both current and future demand. The goal is to increase production capacity to 100 murals per day while reducing project turnaround times from 3-4 weeks to 1-2 weeks, ensuring Paintillio can meet the needs of time-sensitive clients and event planners. By investing in this critical upgrade, the team will also be able to redirect resources toward marketing campaigns and business development in the U.S., supporting the company’s ongoing growth and international expansion. What is your long term goal for the company? One of our long-term goals is to reach $2 million in revenue within the next three years, and our current demand puts us on track to achieve it. However, our in-house software, which transforms client images into custom paint-by-numbers murals, has become a bottleneck. It can take up to 24 hours to render large-scale images, limiting us to one mural per day and a 3-4 week turnaround time. Upgrading this software is crucial to meeting demand, reducing turnaround times, and unlocking new business opportunities. Learn more about the Mastercard & Pier Five Small Business Fund, and discover the other 2024 recipients here .

Discover the latest and upcoming Pier Five Athletics Club events. Building community through social sport & wellness events. UPCOMING EVENTS (TORONTO) WINTER REFRESH Cold plunges, saunas, DJs and great vibes at Toronto's newest social wellness club, NRG Haus. March 5, 2026 7:30 - 9:30 PM ET Tickets Event Info SPRING TRAINING A full-day event filled with exercise and social activities including a run, HIIT class, breathwork and more. April, 2026 Time TBA Coming Soon PIER FIVE PICKLE Our first-ever pickleball tournament in partnership with Aethos Pickleball. Grab a partner and sign up! June, 2026 Time TBA Coming Soon FOREST RETREAT Full day retreat in Milton, ON for a hike, forest bathing, BBQ lunch, fireside chats and games. September, 2026 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM ET Coming Soon SHAKEOUT SOCIAL Morning 5k run and post-run social for the Toronto Marathon Weekend with hydration, nutrition and tunes! October 17, 2026 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM ET Coming Soon THE BIG BASH Boxing & recovery event to finish off the year strong. Post-event social and healthy food & bev included. November, 2026 Time TBA Coming Soon See Past Events

A Conversation With Carlos Ortiz of 8Point5 Agency After sixteen months of on and off closures, the world of retail is beginning to get back on its feet. Doors are reopening, production is getting back to normal and business may soon be back to where it once was. We spoke with Carlos Ortiz, founder of lifestyle sales agency 8Point5 and veteran in the streetwear scene, about his last year, how the business has changed, what he's optimistic about, advice he'd give to new brands looking to get their foot in the door with retailers and of course, his go-to food spots in the city. @los_ortiz Hey Carlos! For those that may not be familiar with you, tell us a little about yourself. My name is Carlos Ortiz and I’m the founder of lifestyle sales and strategy agency 8point5. I got my start about ten years ago when I helped open and manage the first Livestock shop. After that, I started working for a distribution company that was run by the owner and helped open the Toronto office, managing brand accounts like The Hundreds, BBC, Alife and G Shock. In 2019, I decided to go out on my own which is when I started 8point5. The name was taken from my shoe size. Luckily the guys I worked with before were encouraging and supportive of me taking some of the brands I had worked with previously and now I have G-Shock, Taikan, Jason Markk, Rizzoli Books, Baxter of California, Clae Footwear, House of Blanks and Toyo Street on my roster. We help these brands gain exposure in east coast Canada and get into a ton of the top boutiques and stores. Really cool stuff! What would you say are the biggest differences being on your own now versus working for a larger company? Great question! The biggest thing for me is that I have way more freedom now to work how I want and with the brands that I want. I also have a really great work-life balance now that I’m on my own which has helped a ton with my mental health, especially in the last year and a half. I've been able to get outside way more which I love and have gotten a better outlook on the city. I will say though that it’s not always so easy being on your own. The ups feel great because I know they were all mine but the downs are tough when you don’t have a team behind you. It’s just a different game now. That makes a lot of sense. Speaking of the last year and a half, what was it like for you and the business? Man, I won’t lie, this last year was tough. There were a ton of manufacturing pauses which were difficult because in this business, you get paid when products ship. So, if nothing is shipping and you can’t complete orders, that really hurts on the revenue side. I also lost a couple brands during the pandemic simply because they couldn’t operate. Everything in terms of operations and strategy really changed. I wasn’t able to rent showroom spaces and have people come through anymore so like many others, it was a lot of Zoom calls but that just isn’t the same because people need to feel the product to truly understand it. So that was hard. On the bright side, I grew a lot and many of my strategies have developed. I’m now more particular about the brands I work with and stay away from seasonal brands which means I can focus on “at-once” brands that can always ship and help me grow when I need to. I’ve also built my network and started helping other retailers develop their e-commerce and digital businesses which has helped them as well as me. If the stores are operating better, it drives more business for me and my brands. As hard as it all was, I think the pandemic brought out the good in everyone and brought the community together. It’s interesting to hear how your perspective has changed. In addition to focusing on at-once brands, how else does 8point5 choose which brands to take on now? Portfolio Alignment: For me it’s important to ensure that all of the brands we carry can sit together so that shops can get multiple brands from us. It helps them and helps us. High & Low: Another thing we look at is if the brand can work in both high and low tier retailers. For example, Jason Markk is carried at Harry rosen which is a top luxury store for men, but it’s also in streetwear boutiques and even at the Nike store. Not Too Niche: Sometimes this is tough but I need to take on brands that are generally loved by many so that I can sell them into a lot of doors. I love some really cool Japanese brands but there’s only maybe 1 or 2 shops in the city I could sell them too so unfortunately it’s just not smart to work with them. Product Diversity: Diversity of brands is very important. My roster has footwear, books, bags, watches, cleaners and grooming products. I want 8point5 to encompass the entirety of men’s lifestyle and this also helps me stay away from seasonal products like apparel which faces greater risk due to manufacturing delays but also usually goes on sale so is harder to sell. Ethical or Sustainable Practices: Lastly, I’m very focused on trying to work with brands that have a focus on sustainable production and practices. Not every brand that I work with has this but it’s a bit plus for me as I expand the roster. Over the last few years, we’ve seen brands put more focus into their direct-to-consumer (DTC) channels and reduce the number of wholesaler doors they’re carried in. Why do you think this is and do you think retailers are still as important for brands as they were 5 or 10 years ago? Well, I mean, there’s way more money in DTC. That’s just the truth. We see brands like Nike pull out of shops every month basically BUT, I don’t think stores are going away. They’ll always be important for giving the brand more of a story. You need stores to create that in person product experience. Some brands can do this on their own but many can’t and it’s not the same with only online. Even Nike that has a massic e-comm business and their own stores still leverages boutiques for big promos like Air Max Day. I think that says something about the need for shops. We may get fewer shops but we’ll always have them. We definitely agree with that. It’s hard to imagine a world without our favourite sneaker shops and clothing boutiques. What tips would you give to a newer brand looking to get into retailers for the first time? The first thing any brand needs to do is build up their DTC channels. I know this sounds counterintuitive but retails want to feel like there’s a partnership and not just that you need them to succeed. Secondly, identify stores that have similar brands and styles. It has to feel like a natural fit. Once you identify the shops you want to be in, work on building relationships with people there. The world of retail is a tight knit community. Solidify your product offering and brand strategy. If you’re successful with growing your DTC to start, you’ll likely have this. You’ll need to convince the stores that you are the best choice to sit on their shelves so a great product and brand strategy is key. Lastly, a sales and distribution agency can be very helpful. They often have the best relationships with stores and can be very influential as a promoter of your brand. They’ll also help manage product orders and logistics which isn’t always easy for new brands. Love that! We agree, it’s definitely important to have a strong multi-channel approach. Before we let you go, we’re going to switch gears for a second. It seems like in the last year you’ve been all over the Toronto food scene. What are your top 5 spots in the city for anyone in or visiting Toronto this summer? [Laughs] Yes! I think I’ve tried a new spot almost every single week for the last year and a half when we were able to. I was really looking to support as many small and local businesses as possible and I love spreading the word about them to others. The following places are all great and, even more importantly, have amazing staff. That’s key for me. Mattachionni : An amazing pizza spot with 2 locations. 416 Snack Bar : Great drinks and quick bites. Grandma Loves You : Some of the best sandwiches in the city. Pho Tien Thanh : Great Vietnamese food. I always get the bun dish #59 w/ extra meat. Ruru Baked : Awesome ice cream and such a nice team. Check out Carlos and 8Point5 Agency on Instagram and keep it locked to Pier Five for more interviews and stories with the coolest designers, artists, activists, entrepreneurs and more.