A Different Approach.
What makes us different? We’re down-to-earth small business owners, just like you. And we’ve got lots of stories and experiences to support our 20+ combined years of helping towns, businesses and organizations be successful. Oh, and we make learning fun. Get ready for energy!
We launched Your Town Rising with a unique approach to community-building. More than 60 small towns across Manitoba and Ontario have hired us and are embracing our inspiring message that real and sustained revitalizaion begins with what you have RIGHT NOW.
We bring our unique boots-on-the-sidewalks approach to your main street. We listen, learn and see the gaps, possibilities, and opportunities and then present tailored paths forward for your town.
Leslie Fournier
LESLIE FOURNIER | Placemaking, Public Art, Vibrancy
An entrepreneurial spirit and love of exploring led Leslie to create Streets Alive in her downtown core. This unique placemaking program brings public spaces to life with interactive art and activity. The Streets Alive story has been featured in national publications and Leslie has been recognized as Citizen of the Year and Business Woman of the Year for the impact and success of these projects. She speaks to BIA’s, tourism groups, cultural summits and economic development conferences on how to attract visitors and shoppers with creative placemaking. As a small town retailer for over 20 years, Leslie understands the challenges faced by local businesses and the increasing importance for every community to create a strong, vibrant sense of place.
Dan Fournier
DAN FOURNIER | Community and Business Vitality
Dan grew up in a small Northern Ontario mill town that has seen the cycles of boom, decline and reinvention. His education and business background has been instrumental in the longevity and success of the family retail business. He has mentored entrepreneurs and small business owners, providing valuable information for efficiency, profitability and growth opportunities. Dan is a story-teller, who is relatable, down to earth and inspirational. His small business experiences and adventures (from Moosonee, the North Shore of Lake Superior and various towns in Muskoka - all the way to the north island of New Zealand) provide entertaining and impactful insights.
Leslie