The Brand Audit Project
Project Details
The project awards a complimentary brand audit designed to uncover hidden opportunities and provide personalized recommendations for a small business looking to grow and succeed in 2026. The successful applicants to the “Elevate 2026 Brand Audit Project” will receive expert guidance with actionable insights tailored to their unique needs.
New! Expanded Intakes and Regions
Now open to more applicants from a wider community.
Three complimentary brand audits will be awarded to a deserving business in 2026, which includes a full review of your brand, marketing and communications strategy, an action plan based on audit results, and recommendations for next steps (a $4,750 value).
Our Why
Behind every small business is a visionary with a dream. We understand the challenges of maintaining a clear, impactful identity when operating entirely from within your own business. An objective third party can provide a fresh perspective and unbiased insights to help align your goals, messaging, and strategies with customer expectations.
As a small business ourselves, we’ve benefited from the support and inspiration of our community during our early years of growth. Offering this complimentary audit is our way of giving back and paying it forward to support other small business owners on their journey.
Eligibility
The complimentary brand audit is open to small business owners located in Ottawa and the surrounding area who meet the following criteria:
- Employ fewer than 100 people.
- Generated less than $5 million in annual revenue.
- Have an established business operating for 1–10 years.
Business Location
In addition to Ottawa, the Elevate 2026 Brand Audit Program now spans the full Eastern Ontario region.
Applications are now accepted from businesses located from Kingston to Cornwall, from Brockville up to Renfrew, and east through Prescott–Russell.
- Ottawa
- Frontenac (Kingston)
- Lanark
- Leeds & Grenville
- Prescott & Russell
- Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry
- Renfrew County (Ottawa Valley)
- Hastings (Belleville area)
- Prince Edward County
- Lennox & Addington
- Cornwall
- Brockville
- Pembroke (Ottawa Valley)
To apply, fill out the form below. An official application will be sent by email.