Tell Us Your Story. What motivated you to start your business? Why are you passionate about what you do?

My vision is to establish an artist-run print shop dedicated to supporting fellow artists in bringing their work to life. I aim to create a welcoming and inclusive space, particularly for the queer community, where individuals can seek solutions to their printing challenges without fear of condescension. This space will be a hub of limitless creativity and collaborative problem-solving, fostering an environment where artistic expression can truly thrive.

Describe and demonstrate, including metrics, your community support. How do you support and uplift your community, and how do they show that support in return? Minimum 25 words, maximum 2500 characters.

Our commitment to community support is deeply ingrained in our business model. We provide budget-friendly solutions to local small businesses, enabling them to maximize their return on investment. By offering affordable services, we help these businesses thrive, directly contributing to the local economy. This support is reflected in our strong client retention rate and the growth in word-of-mouth referrals, demonstrating the value we bring to the community. We are also deeply engaged with the local drag and pride communities, donating both our time and financial resources to support their initiatives. We create an inclusive space within our shop where these communities can feel safe and welcome, hosting events and offering shelf space in our retail space for their merchandise. In addition, we actively uplift the local art community by providing them with space in our storefront to showcase and sell their work. We leverage our social media platforms to highlight their creations, giving them broader exposure. Our efforts have led to exposure for these artists and a growing following on our social media channels, demonstrating the impact of our support. Our community’s reciprocation of our efforts is evident in the loyalty of our customers, the positive word-of-mouth, and the collaborative spirit that pervades our interactions with local artists, businesses, and community groups. This mutual support strengthens our bonds with the community, fostering a thriving, interconnected network of creativity and inclusivity.

Why do you deserve to win the Business Impact award?

We believe we deserve to win the Business Impact Award because of our unwavering dedication to our community, driven by a small yet highly committed team. Our efforts go beyond business; we are passionate about supporting and uplifting local artists and creatives, fostering an environment where they can thrive. Our commitment is evident in the tangible contributions we make—whether through providing affordable solutions, creating inclusive spaces, or amplifying the voices of local talents. Our goal has always been to infuse our community with joy, creativity, passion, and color. Through our work, we strive to make a lasting positive impact, enriching the lives of those we serve and contributing to the vibrant cultural fabric of our region.

Tell Us About Your Culture. How are you creating a sustainable and healthy workplace where everyone feels welcome? Provide examples of leadership you show in interactions with clients, vendors, contractors, staff and others.

Our organization is proud to be Rainbow Registered, reflecting our deep commitment to creating an inclusive, welcoming environment for everyone. We foster a workplace culture where diversity is celebrated, and every individual feels valued and respected, regardless of their background or identity. We also demonstrate our commitment to the well-being of our broader community by co-hosting an annual men's mental health golf tournament. This event not only raises awareness about the importance of mental health but also directs all proceeds to local men's mental health charities. Our involvement in this initiative highlights our dedication to creating a healthier, more supportive community. In addition to our community efforts, we actively support local artists, particularly those who come to us seeking guidance. We provide them with practical advice on how to start selling their art and offer encouragement throughout their journey. By helping these artists navigate the challenges of breaking into the market, we contribute to the sustainability of our local creative community. In our interactions with clients, vendors, contractors, and staff, we lead by example, embodying the principles of respect, inclusivity, and collaboration. Our commitment to these values is evident in the strong, positive relationships we maintain with all our partners, as well as in the supportive atmosphere we cultivate within our workplace.

Why do you think you should win the Premier’s People’s Choice Award?

We believe we should win the Premier’s People’s Choice Award because of our deep commitment to our community and our passion for empowering fellow artists to become successful, self-employed professionals. As a Rainbow Registered organization, we prioritize inclusivity and embrace diversity, creating a welcoming space for all. Our dedication to our craft and the people we work with drives everything we do, and we take great pride in contributing to the growth and success of those around us.