Toronto's small businesses help create the vibrancy and culture of our city, leading the charge on innovation, creativity, and the real hustle mentality. As the backbone of our communities, we can always rely on small businesses for an early morning coffee or book recommendation.

To shine a light on that kind of dedication, Intuit QuickBooks has partnered with the National Hockey League (NHL) and the NHL Players Association (NHLPA), to ensure Toronto’s favourite businesses continue flourishing and reaching new heights.

blogTO caught up with Toronto Maple Leafs' right-winger William Nylander to spread some love for small businesses. Here’s what #88 loves about Toronto business owners!

It's a 'Built Different' mindset

Both business owners and hockey stars share a unique set of skills that help them establish goals and achieve them, day in and day out, and that's why Nylander believes both are so similar.

Dogfather & Co.

"I think for both careers, you need to believe in yourself and be determined to reach your goals — literally and figuratively," Nylander tells Daily Hive.

Nylander's top picks

When it comes to some of Nylander's favourite small businesses to visit and support in Toronto, you can catch him at a few local hotspots.

 

 

 

 

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"I go to SUGO a lot with friends and family," he says and specifically shouts out the Bloordale Village pasta joint's rigatoni vodka (his self-proclaimed "fave") and meatballs.

Nylander also shows some love to the Dogfather and Co. when his furry friends need a little TLC.

That Canadian entrepreneurial flare

Born in Calgary and representing Sweden internationally, Nylander knows a little bit or two about small businesses around the globe. But when it comes to Canadian entrepreneurs, he says the ability to showcase their authentic selves only enhances the customer connection.

"What's great about small businesses in Canada is that they're able to put their own opinions, values, and passion into what they put out into the world," he says.

Intuit Quickbooks

OG small businesses forever

We all have special memories of small business owners and the impact they had on our lives. For the 28-year-old, Nylander gives the nod to a favourite kid's tradition.

"A fond memory I have is buying bracelets and jewelry from small businesses to give to my family," he says while adding, "the friendship bracelet era continues."

From one pro to another

You might think that with Nylander's quick decision-making and immense capacity to withstand pressure, he would have some A1 tips for local business owners, but he keeps it real and recognizes the pros making their own moves.

"It's hard to think of what advice I would give to small business owners -- they're experts themselves and I love to support them," he remarks.

Explore your business power with Intuit QuickBooks

Whether you're a professional hockey player or run a small business, Intuit QuickBooks knows that every day is game day. It's that Built Different mindset that embodies the Intuit QuickBooks approach to simplified financial management.

Dogfather & Co.

As Canada's one-stop-shop for all things entrepreneurial with easy-to-use accounting, payroll, and time-tracking tools, small business owners can focus on what they love and rest easy after a long day knowing Intuit QuickBooks has their back.

Keen on learning how Intuit QuickBooks can guide you toward success? Check out the Intuit QuickBooks website to learn more and remember to support your favourite small business!