#BackingSmall Business Contest Past Winners

2024: $25,000 Grand Prize Winner
The Original Maple Bat Corporation
Carleton Place, ON

From their warehouse on the outskirts of Ottawa, the Original Maple Bat Corporation handcrafts their iconic Sam Bat, a baseball bat beloved for its quality and reliability. Trusted by pro baseball players and little leaguers alike, this small business continues to set the standard for baseball players worldwide. 

2024: $10,000 Prize Winner
Promenaid
Dorval, QC

Promenaid designs and manufactures easy-to-install handrails that make spaces more accessible for people with mobility issues. From hospitals to homes, their products are relied on by architects, contractors, and consumers alike in Canada, the US, and beyond.

2024: $10,000 Prize Winner
Simply Ejibola
Grande Prairie, AB

Simply Ejibola crafts unique stationery products designed to spark the imagination and fuel creativity. Driven by the enthusiasm and entrepreneurial spirit of CEO and Founder Ejibola Adetokunbo-Taiwo, this Alberta-based business is helping Canadians turn blank pages into big ideas.

2024: $5,000 Prize Winner
Mike’s Bike Shop
Dieppe, NB

A favorite among east-coast cyclists, Mike’s Bike Shop is known for expert repairs and a family-like atmosphere. Their thriving e-commerce business has expanded their reach, shipping products across Canada and throughout North America.

2023: $25,000 Grand Prize Winner
Solarbotics
Calgary, AB

‘Mom & Pop’ Electronic Shop Solarbotics brings technological know-how and supplies to professionals and hobbyists alike. Driven by a passion for STEM, this husband-and-wife duo provides solutions, support, and inspiration to their local community of electronics enthusiasts.

2023: $10,000 Prize Winner
Glow Plant Inc.
Toronto, ON

This Toronto-based biotech business aims to make the world a little brighter by offering sustainable biological lighting solutions. Their nanoparticle-coated luminous plants are a unique way to bring natural light to any space.