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LEAD VENDOR PROGRAM

About the LEAD Vendor Program

Market Access both physical and digital. Helping entrepreneurs reach multi-digit sales growth. Achieve business sustainability. Expand into retail stores and international markets

Purpose

  • Economic Empowerment: Equip vendors with opportunities for increased sales, visibility, and business growth.
  • Market Access: Provide strategic entry points into pop-up markets, major retail stores, international trade, and eCommerce platforms.
  • Capacity Building: Train and mentor vendors on how to scale successfully while maintaining product quality, compliance, and brand identity.
  • Sustainable Inclusion: Ensure that marginalized entrepreneurs can thrive in both physical and digital marketplaces.
 
 Who It’s For

  • Artisans, creatives, and small product-based businesses offering unique, high-quality goods

  • Marginalized entrepreneurs, including women, youth, newcomers, and racialized founders

  • Vendors ready to go beyond local sales and enter retail, export, or online markets

Apply Here

What Vendors Get

  • Booth space at curated markets and LEAD-hosted events (e.g. Downtown Farmers Market, pop-ups, trade expos)
  • Marketing support via LEAD’s digital channels and offline promo campaigns
  • Retail readiness training for placement in BIG Box stores (e.g., TJX, Loblaw,)
  • Export preparation and support through partnerships with platforms such as:
    • Export Development Canada (EDC) for funding, risk mitigation, and market intelligence
    • Global trade events, missions, and B2B matchmaking programs
  • E-commerce onboarding for platforms like Amazon, Etsy, and Shopify…..
  • Mentorship on branding, pricing, inventory, and scaling for wholesale
  • Access to funding and tools to improve operations and expand reach
  • A community of vendors and business advisors to collaborate, learn, and grow with.