Yellowknife (Oct 23/06) - Running a small business in the North requires a special kind of determination.

That's something Tara Tootoo Fotheringham, of Rankin Inlet, and Holly Norris, of Inuvik, can each pride themselves on - even though they're still relatively new to the world of business.

Inuvik's Holly Norris, owner of the Sun Burst Bistro and catering firm Delta Sun Services, was the NWT recipient of the Business Development Bank of Canada Young Entrepreneur Award. Norris accepted the award in Moncton, N.B., last week. - photo courtesy of Business Development Bank of Canada

The women were announced as the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) Young Entrepreneur Award winners for Nunavut and the NWT respectively last week at a ceremony in Moncton, N.B.

The annual award competition for up-and-comers on the business scene, between the ages of 19 and 35, features one winner from each territory and province in Canada.

Standing alongside Canada's top young entrepreneurs was encouraging, said Norris.

"It's wonderful to see so many young people in business," she said.

The 26-year-old owns and operates a catering company, called Delta Sun Services, as well as the Sun Burst Bistro and a concession stand in Inuvik's Midnight Sun Recreation Complex.

Norris got her start in 2003 when she and her partner, Brad Olynyk, decided to start a catering company.

The couple worked out of their apartment until they got a concession contract at the recreation complex.

Now Norris' venture employs 12 to 15 full- and part-time workers, including numerous high school students who work in part for school credit.

"I really enjoy it," she said. "It's amazing."

Being a role model for others in her community is inspiring, but Norris said she wouldn't be a success without support from others.

"I wouldn't be able to do this without my family."

Also having the support of the Gwich'in Tribal Council has helped her focus on raising a son, Tye Norris-Olynyk, while growing her many business ventures.

Tootoo Fotheringham can also attest to having a strong family and community supporting her ideas.

This 31-year-old Nunavut award winner owns Sugar Rush Cafe, Tara's Treasures and a bed and breakfast in Rankin Inlet.

Her husband and parents continue to be a strong foundation, she said.

"People really believe in me," she said.

In September 2005, she purchased the Sugar Rush Cafe with the help of the Nunavut Business Credit Corporation.

The restaurant now blends traditional culture with an exotic menu, she said.

Between the cafe and Tara's Treasures, she has created jobs for 12 workers. As owner, she places special emphasis on training young employees and helping them move forward with new opportunities.

"I just love what I do," she said.