This ByWard Market program is empowering immigrant entrepreneurs in Ottawa (CTV)

CTV - May 27, 2024

A shipping container in the ByWard Market is housing something different and delicious.

"We specialize in empanadas. They come from Latin America," says Ivana Hernandez, co-owner of Delights by Mama.

The business, Delights by Mama, is part of a new program developed by Immigrant Entrepreneur Canada, allowing new Canadians to test their businesses in a real-world setting.

“It’s just basically an opportunity to help other immigrants, a new wave of immigrant entrepreneurs, get an easier start in their immigration and entrepreneurship journeys," says Karla Briones, founder and CEO of Immigrant Entrepreneur Canada.

The pop-up shop is part of the Summer Retail Incubator 2024 program, offering participants hands-on experience and direct feedback from customers.

"Every week is going to be a different immigrant entrepreneur test-marketing their products and being able to access a high-traffic retail location," says Briones.

More than 20 companies will take their turn this summer in the shipping container pop-up on York Street at ByWard Market Square.

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