When Eddy Bucardo co-founded Unchained Athletics, he wasn’t building just another gym. He was creating a space where people feel seen, strong, and supported. Located below street level in Toronto, the gym’s raw, unapologetic energy reflects its purpose: a home for healing, equity, and empowerment. With support from the ICCC–Pizza Hut Canada Equal Slice program, Eddy and co-owner Christina Henry secured grant funding that sparked meaningful change, from new signage to clearer strategy. Today, Unchained is expanding its reach and continuing to uplift the communities it serves. Their story is rooted in grit, guided by purpose, and fueled by the power of capital. Read More

When Cassandra Carreiro launched Sharecuterie from her home in Winnipeg, she wasn’t just creating charcuterie boards—she was creating a space where everyone could feel seen and included. Inspired by her own experience living with celiac disease, Cassandra built a business centered on allergen-aware, culturally conscious menus and warm hospitality. With support from ICIC’s ICCC-Pizza Hut Equal Slice Program, she gained the tools and confidence to grow strategically—and walked away with one of five $20,000 CAD grants. Today, Sharecuterie is expanding to a second location, and her sold-out Build-Your-Own Board workshops are turning customers into community. For entrepreneurs wondering how to scale a purpose-driven business, Cassandra’s journey offers a powerful example of what happens when innovation is rooted in empathy. Read More

Dr. Pamela Nelson, ICCC alumna and founder of Bracane Company, is breaking barriers in healthcare by tackling disparities in underserved communities. With more than 30 years of experience, she saw firsthand the challenges minority populations face in accessing quality care and clinical research. Bracane Company partners with governments, insurance companies, pharmaceutical companies, and communities in fulfilling its mission to reduce health disparities and promote health equity in underserved communities.  Dr. Nelson’s journey reflects the power of innovation and resilience. She remains committed to growth, aiming to expand services tenfold in five years. Her story is an inspiration for entrepreneurs seeking to drive meaningful change. Read More

At ICIC, we know the power of storytelling in driving impact, and our partnership with Riveo Creative exemplifies this. Led by ICCC and Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses (10KSB) graduate Elin Barton, Riveo Creative has played a vital role in producing high-quality videos for ICIC’s IC100 special awards, Impact Report, and the 2024 What’s Your Why? campaign—bringing the stories of small business owners to life. Read More

Storytelling has the power to challenge perspectives, amplify voices, and drive real change—and EmVision Productions, recently named the 2025 SBA Massachusetts Microenterprise of the Year, is leading the way. Co-founded by Dr. Tariana V. Little and Jonas Meyer, this innovative media agency blends creativity and health sciences to advance social justice and empower communities. Their Social Impact Storytelling™ approach helps organizations amplify their missions. Committed to “giving forward,” EmVision supports under-represented communities through pro bono services, grassroots collaborations, and scholarships. As they continue expanding their reach, EmVision proves that intentional storytelling has the power to create lasting change. Read More