Applications are now open for the 2026 BCAA Small Business Grant. Small business owners can apply for a chance to win $5,000 to help grow their business*. Apply by October 31, 2026.

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Every year, the BCAA Small Business Grant shines a spotlight on passionate local entrepreneurs who strengthen their communities in meaningful ways. We’re proud to introduce our 2025 winner, 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.

Today, Nicole's 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.

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 Occasionally Honey on their website or follow Occasionally Honey on Instagram.  

Protect what you’re building with BCAA Small Business Insurance

Nicole's story is a reminder that building a successful business takes dedication, perseverance and planning. Just as important is protecting what you've worked so hard to build. With flexible coverage designed for BC businesses, BCAA Small Business Insurance can help provide peace of mind, so you can focus on growing your business and serving your customers. Plus, BCAA Members can save up to 10%! 

Applications Now Open for the 2026 BCAA Small Business Grant

Inspired by last year's winner? Applications are now open for the 2026 BCAA Small Business Grant. One BC small business will receive $5,000 to help grow their business*.

Apply by October 31, 2026 for your chance to be the next winner.

Apply Now 

<sup>*NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. There are 5 Prizes to be won: the 1st place Grant winner will receive $5,000, a free BCAA Plus Membership and a promo code for a $100 discount on BCAA Small Business Insurance, approximate value of $5,235, and the 2nd to 5th place winners will receive a BCAA Plus Membership and a promo code for a $100 discount on BCAA Small Business Insurance, approximate value of $235.

To be eligible, all entries must be received by British Columbia Automobile Association no later than the close of business on October 31, 2026. BCAA Members and non-Members can enter this competition by filling in the form on www.bcaa.com/win5000. Winner must answer a skill testing question. Open to residents of British Columbia who are at least nineteen years old. Odds of winning depend on the total number of eligible entries received and application of the judging criteria. For more information, visit our Competition Rules www.bcaa.com/win5000rules.</sup>