London, ON – October 1, 2024– As announced at the 41st London Chamber of Commerce Business Achievement Awards, where London Bicycle Café was named Small Business of the Year, the Café is excited to officially launch its Bikes For Business Pilot Program. This initiative is funded through the 2024 Desjardins GoodSpark Grant in collaboration with community partner Green Economy London, and has the support of Northern Commerce, a leader in digital solutions.
The Bikes For Business Program will empower sustainability-focused businesses by providing access to a fleet of B2B e-bikes for long-term trials. Local businesses and organizations can explore how e-bike-based transportation can augment or replace traditional carbon-based delivery and commuting methods. Early pilots of the program include 519 Pursuit and Meals on Wheels, both organizations committed to serving the community’s most vulnerable populations.
“At 519 Pursuit, we are always looking for new innovative ways to support our friends living rough, facing homelessness, and navigating food insecurity,” said Allison Deblaire, Executive Director of 519 Pursuit. “This pilot project creates new paths forward in locating friends who are in encampments and not accessing services regularly. It’s a big step forward in support of food security for individuals living unhoused. We are excited for meaningful conversations and being a supportive piece in system navigation.”
Chad Callandar, Executive Director of Meals on Wheels, also highlighted the potential of the program: “After the pilot, I can see how bikes really could bring a lot of positive change for the organization. Not to mention, cost savings and a new demographic of volunteers.”
The program will enable businesses and organizations to experience firsthand the environmental and operational benefits of e-bike transportation, helping them reduce their carbon footprint while increasing efficiency.
“We believe the future of business transportation is sustainable,” said Andrew McClenaghan, Co-owner of London Bicycle Café. “This program offers local businesses and organizations the chance to explore e-bikes as a viable, eco-friendly transportation solution.”
London Bicycle Café will maintain and store the e-bike fleet, allowing businesses and organizations to trial these sustainable transportation options over long-term periods.
About London Bicycle Café:
London Bicycle Café is committed to promoting sustainable and practical cycling solutions within the community. With a focus on local businesses and environmental stewardship, the Café offers products and services designed to make cycling accessible for everyone.
About Meals on Wheels:
Meals on Wheels London is a community-based, volunteer-driven organization that delivers nutritious meals and provides social connections to seniors and people with disabilities. Through innovative solutions, the organization ensures its clients remain independent in their homes while reducing social isolation.
About Desjardins GoodSpark Grant:
The Desjardins GoodSpark Grant is a national initiative that supports small businesses in their efforts to drive sustainable development, economic growth, and social impact within their communities. The grant is aimed at fostering innovation and helping businesses take meaningful steps toward a greener future.
About 519 Pursuit:
519 Pursuit is a grassroots organization in London, Ontario, focused on reducing homelessness and food insecurity. Through outreach, advocacy, and community partnerships, the organization works to ensure individuals living rough have access to vital resources and support, building pathways to a better quality of life.
For more information on the Bikes For Business Program or to schedule an interview, please
Contact:
Andrew McClenaghan, London Bicycle Café
amcc@londonbicyclecafe.com
Call/Text: 519-860-9604
londonbicyclecafe.com
