Tips for applying to #StandWithOwners: advice from past winners
#StandWithOwners · Jun 18, 2026
What separates a good business from a standout winner of the
TELUS Business #StandWithOwners program
? To find out, we went straight to the source: the resilient past winners who have successfully navigated the application process and gone on to scale their businesses.Now in its seventh year, the #StandWithOwners initiative is our commitment to championing the Canadian owners who put it all on the line. This year, we are providing $125,000 in funding, technology and national exposure to the businesses shaping the future of Canada.
We’ve released
our guide to a winning application
, and now past winners themselves are revealing their best tips. Discover what they did to capture attention and stand out in the #StandWithOwners contest:Winning advice from #StandWithOwners alumni
1. Show your resilience
Many of our top winners did not secure the prize on their first attempt. Reapplying is a sign of grit, and each iteration only serves to refine your brand's core messaging:
“Apply, and if you do not win the first time, apply again. Each year you get better at telling your story. Do not overthink it and just be honest about why your business matters.”
- Katrina Jean-Laflamme, Co-owner, UKKÖ Robotics
2. Embrace your growth journey
Running a business changes the moment you move from doing the daily work to building a system for growth. Don't be afraid to show the judges how you and your business are evolving together:
“As business owners, we’re constantly growing alongside our businesses. My advice is to be honest about both the wins and the challenges, and share how those experiences have shaped your journey and impact.”
- Paige Sandher, Co-owner, CouchHaus
3. Own your "why"
Your mission is your ultimate competitive advantage. Let your honesty shine through on the page rather than trying to look perfect:
"Sincere belief in yourself and your team means more than any flashy promotions or carefully crafted scripts."
- Aaron Stevenson, Owner, Ashored Innovations
4. Be specific about the "unlock"
The prize package is not just a reward; it’s a catalyst. Tell us exactly which door this funding and technology will open for your operations by backing up your story with real data:
"Show through example what makes you different and be crystal clear on your vision to turn a good application into a winning one."
- Dawn Chapman, Owner, Lazy Daisy’s Café
5. Humanize your story
Skip the corporate jargon and speak from the heart. Clearly define the human element of your business model and your impact on the community:
"Tell us who you built the business for and what actually changed because you showed up. Get specific by sharing real numbers and real people to show TELUS how your community is better because your business exists."
- Darlene Jehn, Co-owner, mddl
Join a community that stands with you.
Running a business can be a lonely journey. That's why a key pillar of this year’s program is centered around community-building, beyond the contest period. In collaboration with our partners, we’re creating a #StandWithOwners community. It's a platform where Canadian owners can connect, learn and grow together. Members get exclusive access to networking events, learning resources from our partners and special offers designed to fuel their success.
*Visit website for full contest details.
Authored by:
TELUS Business