top of page

The Self-Made Breakfast Tour | Ottawa Recap

  • Writer: Self-Made Tour
    Self-Made Tour
  • 20 hours ago
  • 9 min read

There’s something powerful that happens when a city rallies around its entrepreneurs. In Ottawa, founders, partners, and community leaders came together, and the energy in the room was undeniable.


Thank you to everyone who joined us on Thursday, February 26, 2026, as the Self-Made Breakfast Tour, presented in partnership with PARO Centre for Women’s Entrepreneurship Canada, landed at Bayview Yards, one of Ottawa’s flagship hubs for innovation and business growth.


Ottawa’s entrepreneurial landscape continues to evolve rapidly, supported by organizations such as Invest Ottawa and a strong network of leaders dedicated to advancing tech, innovation, social enterprise, and emerging industries. This stop on the tour highlighted just how collaborative and future-focused the city has become.


We had the chance to spotlight remarkable women founders, spark new partnerships, and bring together more than 150 entrepreneurs with supporters, investors, and organizations committed to helping them scale. Our signature airline-themed experience brought a fresh energy to the morning and left the room feeling motivated, connected, and ready to soar into what’s next.


Want to see the sizzle reel?? Head over to Instagram Reel


The Self-Made Breakfast Tour turned Bayview Yards into a hub for women entrepreneurs ready to grow, connect, and make moves. Founders walked in with questions and left with answers, strategies, and a network that will take their businesses further than ever. The day kicked off at the American Express Founders Lounge, where founders connected, shopped inspiring local brands, enjoyed treats, and tapped into Ottawa’s entrepreneurial energy. Panels and industry leaders shared no-nonsense insights. Small-group Collaboration Tables tackled real challenges. The Learning Lounge gave founders one-on-one access to experts in finance, marketing, legal, and more.


By the end of the day, 150+ women were energized, equipped, and ready to lead in Ottawa’s vibrant business ecosystem.




The Amex Founders Lounge: "Small Business Connections" and VIP Gifting Partners



The Amex Founders Lounge: Small Business Connections set the tone for Ottawa. Canadian founders showcased their products, connected with attendees, shared their stories, and celebrated real-time wins throughout the morning.


For our fourth stop, we were thrilled to welcome back CIBC Business Banking Finance & Professional Headshots Lounge, the Intuit QuickBooks Financial Cafe that fuelled our founders with mini treats and breakfast bites, the Writeway Lounge, and of course, PARO, providing intimate spaces for founders to ask questions, reflect, and dive into strategy, leadership, and growth. The lounge offered creative corners for storytelling, practical support, and meaningful conversations, leaving entrepreneurs inspired and ready to take action.


Thank you to our official Financial Partner, CIBC, who is bringing financial education and headshots across the nation!



With decor brought to life by our lead local decor partner Carol Saad (Loulou Lounge, Chic + Swell) and in partnership with local decor sponsors Chez Lili and Ottawa Flower Walls, Bayview Yards was transformed into an immersive, vibrant environment, celebrating Ottawa’s entrepreneurial energy. Founders discovered new connections, sparked collaborations, and celebrated progress throughout the morning. Guests wrapped up with VIP gift bags filled with beauty, wellness, and lifestyle treats designed to elevate self-care and leave everyone energized for the day ahead.




A huge thank you to our VIP vendors, sponsors and gifting partners: 




“Every woman deserves to be seen, heard, and given real access to opportunity. When we step up and extend our hand to the women around us, the impact is immediate and powerful.” - Anna Sinclair, Founder & CEO of Sinclair Creative Agency (SCA)

With its growing tech sector, strong innovation network, and support for diverse industries, Ottawa was the perfect launchpad for founders ready to take flight.



We kicked off the day with the “Letter To My Future Self” exercise, powered by Writeway and led by Chantria Tram. Writeway has been a trusted partner throughout the Self-Made Breakfast Tour, helping founders tap into reflection, clarity, and intentional goal-setting at every stop. This session invited attendees to pause, focus on their personal and professional growth, and reconnect with the deeper purpose behind their journey. Sharing their letters sparked laughter, inspiration, and genuine connection, creating a supportive, energized atmosphere that set the stage for a day of learning, collaboration, and action.




Thank you to Dean Davidson and Ananda Elixirs for the beautiful speaker gifts.



A Day of Sky-High Moments


Kicking off the speaking portion of the day was the Finance panel, powered by CIBC Business Banking and moderated by Sonya Shorey of Invest Ottawa.




Each panellist offered a distinct perspective:


  • Anca Popescu, Director, CIBC Business Banking, spoke to the power of financial trust and how banks can create real value for founders through tools, guidance, and long-term partnership, not just capital.

  • Elina Takahashi, Senior Product Designer, Writeway, spoke about balancing mission and metrics, and how to scale a purpose-driven brand without losing the soul behind it.

  • Andrea Henry, Founder/Lawyer, IP Goldmine touched on the hidden value of intellectual property and how recognizing and protecting it shifts a founder’s leverage, revenue, and long-term growth strategy.

  • Julie Cole, Co-founder and Sr Director, Mabel’s Labels, shared her insights on building a household name through resourcefulness, disciplined reinvestment, and sustainable growth, proving you don’t need massive venture capital to scale successfully.


The session closed with a dynamic round where each panellist shared a key ‘money move’ to help women founders take charge, trust their decisions, and grow their businesses with confidence.



Following the Finance Panel, we dove into a fiery fireside chat presented by Sinclair Creative Agency (SCA). Moderated by Anna Sinclair, Founder & CEO of SCA, the conversation featured Lisa Zarzeczny, Co-Founder and CEO of Elevate, a passionate advocate for Canada’s tech and innovation ecosystem. Under her leadership, Elevate has grown into a mission-driven nonprofit at the intersection of technology, arts, and social innovation, launching the Elevate Festival, a flagship accelerator program, and initiatives like Think 2030 that support underrepresented founders and foster meaningful connections across Canada.



Before brunch, our amazing sponsors, Ottawa Tourism,  took a moment to highlight Ottawa’s growing innovation landscape and the city’s commitment to supporting founders across sectors. They reminded everyone that Ottawa is a hub of opportunity, collaboration, and forward-thinking ideas. The energy in the room made it clear that this is a city where entrepreneurs can build, connect, and thrive like never before.



Culinary Conspiracy brought the brunch experience to the next level, serving up a spread that wowed attendees from the first bite to the last. With a mix of delicious morning treats and a visually stunning, Instagram-ready brunch (including those strawberry shortcakes everyone is still talking about!), founders fueled up, connected, and kicked off the day in style.



After attendees were refuelled from brunch, and a little more networking and exploring in the Amex Lounge, we jumped back into the action with our second Fireside Chat, powered by SheBoot and moderated by Anna Sinclair. Jennifer Francis, Co-Founder of SheBoot and Investor, brought over 30 years of tech leadership experience to the stage, sharing candid insights from her journey as an executive, angel investor, and board chair.


As Chair of Capital Angel Network and a champion for women-led startups, Jennifer has played a key role in advancing investor readiness and building a community committed to closing the capital gap. A true barrier-breaker, she’s helping shape the future of entrepreneurship and early-stage investment in Canada.



Rosalind Lockyer, CEO & Founder of PARO Canada and presenting partner of the tour, once again captivated the room with a keynote full of energy, insight, and inspiration. Her message celebrated the power and impact of women entrepreneurs, setting an empowering tone for the day. In Ottawa, her words highlighted the national importance of women-led businesses and their role in shaping Canada’s economic future. 


Building on the momentum of Rosalind’s speech, we moved into our Collaborative Innovation Tables (CITs). These sessions, funded in part by Women and Gender Equality Canada, provided a space for meaningful exchange, where participants turned insights into action to influence the programs supporting women-led businesses.




Having Your Voices Heard & Driving Government Policy Decision


At the Collaboration Innovation Tables (CITs), attendees engaged in small-group conversations exploring the real challenges, opportunities, and experiences shaping women entrepreneurs today. Powered by PARO Canada, these sessions offered founders a candid, supportive space to share insights that drive meaningful change.


With each stop on the tour, including Ottawa as our fourth, we continue to learn and uncover new perspectives on the barriers and opportunities women face across industries and regions. The insights collected anonymously contribute to a research report that informs government policies and programs, ensuring that future initiatives are practical, equitable, and impactful.


What makes the CITs especially valuable is their inclusivity. They capture the diverse realities of women entrepreneurs from across Canada, highlighting regionally relevant solutions and culturally responsive strategies. Each discussion strengthens the national entrepreneurial ecosystem, helping to create a more equitable and thriving environment for women-led businesses.



If you’ve thought of additional things you’d like to share, or know another woman entrepreneur who wasn’t at the Tour and would like to have their voice heard, complete PARO Canada’s Collaboration for Transformation survey! You can help us make a difference, as your voice will inform inclusive government policies, practices, and protocols that support women-led businesses nationwide.


After the CITs, attendees moved into the Learning Lounge, a dedicated space where founders could connect directly with industry experts, mentors, and peers. This one-on-one format encouraged meaningful conversations, problem-solving, and knowledge-sharing, giving founders the opportunity to explore solutions, celebrate successes, and gain actionable insights tailored to their businesses.



Thank you to all of our incredible advisors for their insights, thoughtful connections and dedication to the Tour’s mission.


The day ended on a high note with giveaways and celebration, marking a morning packed with ideas, breakthroughs, and new connections. None of this would have been possible without the support of our amazing partners.




The Amazing Volunteer Team!


The Self-Made Breakfast Tour volunteer squad were incredible in Ottawa, helping deliver an unforgettable experience for women founders and community leaders. From early setup to engaging with attendees and keeping everything running seamlessly, their energy and dedication made the day a true success. As we gear up for the next stops on the Tour, we encourage anyone interested in joining this incredible team to apply HERE.



We'd also like to give a very special shoutout to our Content Creator Partner, for helping us capture all the special moments and Cloud 9 experiences throughout the day The Resolution team.



Thank you to our Partners!


We are truly thankful to collaborate with amazing organizations and brands that share our commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs. Because of their generosity, over 150 founders gained access to resources, guidance, and opportunities that empowered them to grow their businesses and thrive even in challenging times.


A huge shoutout to the following sponsors and partners:




Thank you to Magnetic Staffing, SCA’s trusted staffing partner, for supporting our flight attendants and helping make the experience seamless and memorable. Their team was attentive, efficient, and full of energy, ensuring all 156 guests moved smoothly through the event with ease and enthusiasm.


Want to attend our next event???


You won’t want to miss the grand finale of the 2025–2026 Self-Made Breakfast Tour in Vancouver!!!! After an incredible season of connection, growth, and inspiration from coast to coast, we’re bringing the momentum, energy, and impact of every city to one unforgettable final stop. This is your chance to celebrate the achievements of women founders across the country and be part of the epic conclusion of a truly transformative tour.


Visit  www.selfmadebreakfasttour.com to keep up to date!

Follow the @selfmadebreakfast tour to see all the viral moments and buzz.



Comments

bottom of page