Building an Inclusive Canada Water Economy—Together
Ever wondered what it really takes to make a big regeneration project work for small, local businesses? Our latest interim update to Trust for London shows it’s about more than new buildings and fancy transport links, it’s about giving real people the tools and support they need to thrive.
Sharing Data, Making Plans
Thanks to our partnership with British Land, we’ve shared local footfall and customer-flow data with nearly 900 small businesses in Canada Water, 618 of them led by Black founders, and 511 of those women. Imagine being able to see exactly when and where people are shopping, so you can order stock that actually sells, or pick a high-street spot that’s right for you. That clarity can change everything.
Turning Numbers into Actions
Data on its own doesn’t grow sales, but you know what does? Practical, hands-on workshops. This spring, we ran eight lead-generation and procurement sessions and an eight-week Start Your Own Enterprise course. Alongside fellow entrepreneurs, many juggling childcare, caring duties, or new business challenges, participants learned how to:
- Spot and reach their ideal customers
- Map simple sales channels that work for them (online, markets or face-to-face)
- Have confident conversations with suppliers and mentors
One participant told us, “I finally feel like I understand who my customer is, and I know where to find them.”
Markets That Spark Growth
If you’ve ever wondered whether a single market stall can really move the needle, the answer is a resounding yes. Over 12 events, 120 traders tested products, gathered feedback and made early revenue. In our follow-up survey, every single stallholder said the market helped boost their visibility, and 85 percent earned over £100 each, with 15 percent bringing in £700 or more in one day.
The Hurdles We’re Tackling
It isn’t all smooth sailing. We’ve had five Expressions of Interest for Canada Water’s new cafés and food stalls, yet none of those contracts have landed. The procurement process is often opaque and full of jargon. And while we’ve pushed for fair, flexible workspace rents with Southwark Council, “affordable workspace” still needs a clear definition so that people who really need it can access it.
What’s Next, and How You Can Join In
We’re not waiting for perfect conditions. Here’s what’s coming up, and how you can get involved:
- 25 June 2025: Inclusive Tendering Workshop
We’ll sit down with British Land, developers, mentors and you, yes, you, to demystify the tendering process. Bring your questions, your draft bids or just your determination, and let’s make sure small businesses get a fair shot at local contracts. - Stronger Market Partnerships
We’re teaming up with East Street Market to widen your trading options. If you’ve ever wanted to try a new location or meet a different crowd, let’s chat about how to get you on a stall. - Community Focus Groups
We need your voice to shape the next phase. Who better to tell us what works (and what doesn’t) than the people living and trading here?
Your Next Step
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale up, Tree Shepherd is here to help you turn insights and connections into real-world results. Sign up for our upcoming workshop, book a one-to-one session with a mentor, or drop us a line about market opportunities.
Join us in making Canada Water – and beyond, not just a place of new buildings, but a place where every business can grow.
📩 Reach out to info@treeshepherd.org.uk to find out more about workshops, mentoring or markets. We’re ready when you are!
