On my retirement journey, to have fun Learning, Creating and Connecting.  

The importance of small businesses in Ottawa, especially in Old Ottawa South, is close to my heart. This vibrant, walkable community thrives on local support and engagement. Small businesses contribute by sponsoring events, supporting charities, and participating in community projects, creating mutual benefits. By valuing and supporting these businesses, the community fosters a prosperous environment for all. 

EcoAce was created by Guy Souliere after graduating from the Algonquin College Green Business Management course in 2010 . 

I have over 45 years of experience operating a successful telecom business called Guytel . As entrepreneur and tradesman and natural handyman i have enjoyed renovating my homes and cottage.

EcoAce in 2010 was created as a partnership, operated by Guy Souliere and my son Gabriel in Ottawa Ontario, working on small handyman projects with the idea to help individuals by provide tools and knowledge to do their own project. My son has gone throught red seal certification as a Mason and has moved to Calgary, and so i moved on to other projects.  

Since 2011 i sparked the Idea, as the contractor to build a geodesic dome at Brewer Park Community Garden and volunteered as the maintenance coordinator. Since then because of lack of engagement and deterioation it have been torn down and sold for parts in May 2014. 

Since 2010 at SEAlliance.ca I worked on a goal to help small businesses intergrate sustainability in their operations and in 2023 have merged with Smartnet Coalition non profit. 

Acting as vice president and focussed on its ottawa chapter to get sustainability ninded businesses to work together 

In 2023  co-created My Sustainable Business Path  having a goal to connect entrepreneurs on this sustainability journey.  

The importance of community and small businesses in Ottawa cannot be overstated. The community supports and promotes local businesses, which contribute to the city's growth. Ottawa's diverse community values small businesses for their unique offerings, job creation, and entrepreneurial spirit. The community supports small businesses by shopping locally, attending events, and spreading the word. In return, small businesses sponsor events, donate to charities, and participate in community initiatives. They also offer unique products and services, enhancing the shopping experience. The relationship between the community and small businesses is symbiotic, creating a thriving environment for all. 

"Connecting Small Business Sustainability & Community" refers to the idea that small businesses can play a critical role in promoting environmental, social, and economic sustainability while benefiting the communities they operate in. This connection is built on several key points:

1. Local Impact: Small businesses often have deep ties to their communities, making them more likely to prioritize local sourcing, reduce environmental footprints, and invest in community development. Their operations can help preserve local character and identity, while also supporting other local businesses and artisans.

2. Sustainable Practices: Small businesses can embrace sustainable practices by reducing waste, using eco-friendly materials, and conserving energy. By doing so, they contribute to broader sustainability goals, such as reducing carbon emissions and conserving natural resources.

3. Economic Benefits: When small businesses thrive, they create jobs, contribute to the local tax base, and stimulate the local economy. A sustainable small business model can help ensure long-term economic resilience, benefiting both business owners and the wider community.

4. Community Engagement: Small businesses often prioritize community engagement by supporting local causes, providing fair wages, and fostering inclusivity. This strengthens the social fabric and enhances community well-being, helping to build trust between businesses and residents.

5. Innovation & Collaboration: Small businesses are often more agile and innovative, which allows them to experiment with new models of sustainability and collaborate with other local organizations to drive collective action.

In essence, by aligning business practices with community values and environmental stewardship, small businesses can contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future, while also securing their own success.