Every year, the BCAA Small Business Grant shines a spotlight on passionate local entrepreneurs who strengthen their communities in meaningful ways. This year, we’re proud to introduce our 2025 winner. Meet Occasionally Honey, a gluten-free and mostly vegan dessert shop, founded by Nicole Fraser in BC’s Lower Mainland.

From farmers markets, to storefronts and now her brand-new kitchen in Port Coquitlam, BC, Nicole’s journey reflects the heart of local small businesses in BC.

Winning the grant

Nicole’s BCAA Small Business Grant application timing was ideal. She had just got the keys to a new space for Occasionally Honey in Port Coquitlam, and she was creating a full kitchen from scratch. “I was motivated to apply because I was building out a new kitchen and there was a lot of renovation work involved,” explains Nicole.

When she found out she’d won the $5,000 grant, the news left her stunned. “I was just in shock that I won,” she says. “It was perfect timing. Things were starting to be completed at the new location and having that increase in funds was a big relief going into the next steps.”

About Occasionally Honey

Nicole has worked in the food industry for 20 years. A few years into her career, she realized gluten was bothering her, though she didn’t know it at the time. That opened her eyes to how many people struggle with food allergies and intolerances.

Nine years ago, after moving to the Lower Mainland, Nicole launched Occasionally Honey. She began at local farmers markets while developing recipes, originally thinking she might write a cookbook. But her path shifted. “I realized how much I just enjoyed being around people,” says Nicole. “Opening a storefront made more sense.”

Occasionally Honey started in Maple Ridge before she moved to a bigger location in Coquitlam. Nicole has now finished renovations on her new Port Coquitlam space, which features a brand-new production kitchen, plus seating where customers can relax, enjoy her treats, and even play board games.

Community at the centre

Nicole speaks warmly about her community. She’s felt supported at every step by fellow vendors at farmers markets, city staff and loyal customers.

“Connecting with people is the main value that guides how I run the business,” says Nicole. “Over time, many customers have become real friends. It makes me genuinely feel part of a community.”

For people with food allergies or dietary preferences, Occasionally Honey fills a meaningful gap with indulgent treats designed to be enjoyed with confidence.

The journey so far

Nicole admits she jumped into entrepreneurship and learned as she went. “You just figure it out day by day,” says Nicole. She’s been leaning on fellow small business owners at farmers markets for advice and mentorship.

One surprise she’s found? “All the little things you have to learn,” she laughs. She quickly discovered she has to wear many hats from learning about permits, designing packaging and bookkeeping.

A turning point came when she realized renting kitchen space by the hour was adding up too fast. “That’s when I shifted my mindset to think long term,” she explains. Investing in her own space gave Nicole more stability and control.

Today, her Occasionally Honey products are sold in about half a dozen cafes and shops across the Lower Mainland, as well as in her storefront where she welcomes customers into her space.

Why protection matters

As a storefront owner with small business insurance, Nicole knows how important it is to be prepared. “You just never know what may happen,” she says.

From unexpected property damage to liability concerns, having the right insurance in place provides peace of mind — so business owners like Nicole can focus on creating and connecting with their communities, rather than worrying about worst‑case scenarios. That’s where BCAA Small Business Insurance can help, with coverage designed to protect what local businesses are building.

Advice for fellow entrepreneurs

Nicole’s advice is simple and heartfelt: “You really need to be passionate about what you’re doing. If you’re not, you won’t want to do the 15-hour days. But if you are, it doesn’t feel like work.”

She also emphasizes the importance of customer care: “Always focus on the customer. Treat every customer like they’re your only one.”

What’s next

With renovations now complete, Nicole is starting to think about what’s next — from pop-ups to potential satellite locations. For now, she’s grateful. “I’m in a much better spot than before,” she says. “And I really appreciate how supportive everyone has been.”

We’re proud to celebrate Occasionally Honey as our 2025 BCAA Small Business Grant winner. Nicole’s story shows that with passion, community support, and the right protection, BC small businesses can grow in sweet and extraordinary ways.

Learn more about Nicole’s business on their website or follow Occasionally Honey on Instagram. Interested in applying for the BCAA Small Business Grant next year? Keep an eye on BCAA's Instagram for details.

Protect what you’re building with BCAA Small Business Insurance

Running a small business takes passion, resilience and long hours. Protecting what you’ve worked so hard to build is just as important. From storefronts and equipment to liability and unexpected disruptions, having the right coverage in place can give you peace of mind as you grow.

If you’re a Small Business Owner looking for protection, explore BCAA Small Business Insurance. With coverage options designed for BC businesses at every stage, BCAA helps you focus on what matters most; serving your customers and building your community. Plus, BCAA Members can save up to 10% on BCAA Small Business Insurance! Learn more about BCAA Small Business Insurance and find coverage that fits your business.