Weekly Updates: April 23, 2025 🚀
Find Out What’s Killing Your Creativity, Access $50K in Funding, Dive Into Design Thinking, & More!
Creativity doesn’t come from sitting behind a desk all day.
If anything, staying busy might actually be killing your creative spark.
And contrary to popular belief, creativity isn’t a built-in trait. It’s a byproduct of what we do, what we see, and how we respond to all of it.
The most creative people you know and admire didn’t just wake up with a cornucopia of genius ideas. They’ve spent millions of hours building this skill, and they didn’t do it by sitting in a chair and behind a computer all day long.
Sure, one could argue that the internet gives us access to infinite inspiration. From Pinterest boards to YouTube rabbit holes, the whole world is at your fingertips. But even with all of that, you’re still stuck within the four corners of your screen—and more alarmingly—you’re at the mercy of what your algorithm serves you.
Creativity stems from real life. From movement, conversations, emotions, music... From letting yourself daydream, and allowing yourself to actually notice the world around you.
Given all of that, the question remains: How do you fuel your mind and spark fresh ideas?
Here's how I tackle it:
🧠 Embrace Mind-Wandering
Don’t fight those moments when your mind drifts. Plan for it.
Schedule time for relaxing activities—walks, dog time, or quiet breaks at work. The “Shower Effect” is very much real: those sparks of creativity arrive when you’re doing unburdened, routine tasks. And it’s not wasted time, rather it’s when your subconscious kicks in.
🌀 Twist Old Ideas with the New
Creativity isn’t necessarily about pulling something completely new out of thin air. The real trick is to revisit old concepts and see them through a different lens.
That idea you shelved months ago might just need a new angle! That’s how some of my best ideas have come to life. For example, the image to the left is my personal mood board of websites I’ve built and other cool websites I’ve come across.
For every project I work on, I come back to this page and sift through the assets and resources I’ve collected over the years. And then this board allows me to mix and match different ideas to create something entirely new (like the website on the right!).
🧙🏽♂️ Think Like Someone Else
At some point, we’ve all wished we could be someone else; not out of dissatisfaction with ourselves, but because, from far away, someone else’s world just seems more compelling.
Interestingly enough, stepping into someone else’s shoes can also fuel your creative process. Try imagining your day as if you were someone else—your mom, your best friend, Gandalf, Jack Sparrow... What would they notice? How would they approach what you're stuck on?
📵 Get Off Your Phone
We’re constantly plugged in, scrolling through twenty videos in a minute, chasing the next dopamine hit. But when was the last time you sat with a thought long enough to actually feel inspired by what you're seeing?
The pace our world moves at doesn’t leave room for us to take things in, let alone create something new from them.
Remember how it felt to see a movie for the first time in a theatre? That’s the kind of wonder we need more of. Which brings me to...
☀️ Slow Down
It takes being present to really notice what’s going on around you.
The world doesn’t stop when you do, but something shifts. You start to notice the way the sun feels on your skin or the overheard sentence from a stranger sticks with you for days instead of minutes. You start seeing what’s been there all along, waiting patiently to be noticed.
🗣️ Talk to People
This might be the most underrated creative tool. Not brainstorming. Not pitching. I’m talking true, 1-1 connection. talking.
Genuine, curious conversations unlock ideas that wouldn’t exist otherwise. Yes, you don’t have to agree with everything you hear, but listen nonetheless. The best creativity is often born from those in-between moments of connection.
Getting into a creative state is hard. Our lives are consumed by the day-to-day, and it can often feel like inspiration vanishes right when we need it. But cultivating a habit of slowing down and just being, that’s how you get back into the groove.
And if you’re really trying to push your creativity: don’t try to fit in. Be proud of being different.
As Bruce Lee said, “Be like water”. Stay adaptable, flow around obstacles, be open to change, but don’t lose who you are at your core.
Tribe’s Residence Mailboxes 📩
We’re excited to introduce our new Residence Mailbox service—a secure, professional mailing address designed to support entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small businesses. When you rent one, you get:
📬 A secure, private mailbox at 1717 Barrington St
📨 Package acceptance & notifications: we’ll hold your deliveries and notify you when they arrive
💸 Flexible leasing: choose from 3, 6, or 12 months
😌 Bonus perks: get access to Wi-Fi, our kitchenette, and our welcoming co-working space.
Tribe’s AI Launchpad | Tribe x Scale AI
Meet Tribe AI Launchpad—an exciting accelerator program powered by Tribe Network and Scale AI!
With our new program, you can get access to up to $50,000 in funding, expert mentorship, and invaluable industry connections to take your AI solutions to the next level. 💸💡
This is your chance to fast-track your growth and contribute to Canada’s booming AI ecosystem. We’re looking for innovative startups and SMEs with applied AI solutions that can transform supply and value chains!
Show Tribe Some Love! 🧡
If you’ve attended a Tribe event, participated in one of our programs, or just love what we do—let us know! Leaving a review on Google helps us grow, reach more entrepreneurs, and continue building a stronger community.
Things to Read, Watch & Listen To
📰 Read: What Is Design Thinking & Why Is It Important? | Harvard Business Online
This article by the Harvard Business Online by Esther Han breaks down the concept of “Design Thinking” — a people-first ideology designed to help develop innovative solutions to problems. It’s all about empathy, creativity, and testing ideas to find what really works.
If you’re into building better products or solving real-world challenges, it’s a quick and useful read.
🎥 Watch: Canva CEO: Growing an Idea Into a Multibillion-Dollar Design Company | Goldman Sachs Talks
In this episode of Goldman Sachs Talks, Canva CEO and co-founder Melanie Perkins sits down with Ryan Nolan to share the story behind building one of the world’s most widely used design platforms.
Melanie walks through Canva’s early days, the pivotal moments that shaped its growth, and how AI is playing a role in its newest tools. She also talks about Canva’s culture, global strategy, and what’s next for the company, including big goals, philanthropy, and staying true to its mission as it scales.
🎧 Listen: Kwame Taylor-Hayford: Co-Founder of Kin & D&AD President | My Life In Design Podcast
In the season opener, Kwame Taylor-Hayford — the first U.S. President of D&AD and co-founder of creative company Kin — speaks in front of a live audience in New York.
He shares his journey from a career in finance to becoming a leader in the design world, opening up about the influences that shaped him and the work he’s doing to push creativity forward. He also gives us a look at how D&AD is supporting the next generation of creative talent.
"On the Half Shell" Documentary Premiere | Clean Valley
April 30th | 2PM AST, 10 AM PST
Join Clean Valley for an exclusive screening of a fascinating documentary showcasing the beauty and importance of the oyster industry across California. Discover the rich history and conservation efforts surrounding these incredible creatures. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to learn more about the role oysters play in our environment, the successes and challenges of this growing industry, and connect to learn more through the Q&A period.
Advisor Access Program | CGLCC
Various sessions from May - December
The Advisor Access program offers structured sessions and personalized one-on-one networking with expert advisors, tailored specifically for newcomer entrepreneurs. Entrepreneur participants will engage in expert-facilitated discussions on common business challenges, specifically addressing the needs of 2SLGBTQI+ newcomer entrepreneurs. Each session will focus on a specific theme, offering tailored insights and actionable strategies.
Public Impact Award | Research NS
Nominate someone before May 15, 2025 at 1p.m. (AST)
Do you know a researcher who deserves to be spotlighted and celebrated for their work that has benefitted Nova Scotians by tangibly improving the economy, environment, healthcare system, or society?
The recipient of the Public Impact Award is someone who has dedicated their research to respond to the needs of society. They are solving a problem, managing a risk, or creating an opportunity for Nova Scotians.
Africville Heritage Trust Scholarship | Africville Museum
Apply before June 30th
The AHT have established a scholarship program to provide financial assistance to former residents and descendants of former Africville residents pursuing post secondary education, as well as to students who demonstrate an effort to further the purpose of the Society through community advocacy, research, publications and training. The scholarship is possible through a donation of $100,000 in seed money from the law firm, Waterbury Newton.
ToGo Services
Small Businesses, Big Impact—Join the Movement!
Every small business has a story—one built on passion, long nights, and the relentless drive to serve their community. Whether it’s the carpenter perfecting their craft, the hairstylist making someone feel their best, or the local cleaner ensuring homes shine, small business owners pour their heart into what they do.
That’s why we built ToGo Services, a community-driven platform that puts local businesses first. No more getting lost in the noise. No more spending thousands just to reach the very customers who need your services. We make it easy for people to find, book, and support small businesses in their own backyard.
We are building a future where supporting small businesses isn’t a challenge, but a way of life. Sign up today to support Atlantic small businesses.
$30M to Scale Canada’s Ambition in AI
Sign up for an upcoming info session
Scale AI is announcing the immediate availability of $30 million to support high-impact AI projects that will contribute to structuring and strengthening Canada’s position in this strategic sector.
This initiative is open to all Canadian companies. Priority will be given to initiatives that advance the commercialization of AI-driven products and solutions, with a particular emphasis on those that enhance productivity and deliver measurable value across supply chains.
Nova Scotia Loyal | Producer Application
In these uncertain times, it’s more important than ever for Canadians to come together and support each other. One powerful way to do that is by making your product stand out as authentically Nova Scotian with the Nova Scotia Loyal sticker!
Nova Scotia Loyal is a government program designed to make it easier for Nova Scotians to identify, purchase, and support local products. When you see a Nova Scotia Loyal sticker or tag on a product, you know that it’s Nova Scotian.
Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Digital | ICTC
WIL Digital is an innovative work placement program that benefits both employers and students. WIL Digital helps employers grow their businesses by providing a wage subsidy of up to 50% of a student’s salary up to $5,000, or 70% up to $7,000 for underrepresented students. WIL Digital is funded by the Government of Canada's Student Work Placement Program (SWPP). ICTC is among the first organizations to deliver this program.
Startup Atlantic Events Hub | Startup Atlantic
Startup Atlantic has launched a new events calendar that serves as a one-stop hub for all startup events happening across the country. It includes things like workshops, pitch competitions, networking opportunities, and much more. Check it out!
Join BEKH’s Black Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Map | Black Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub
The Canadian Black entrepreneurship ecosystem map will provide nation-wide visibility of your organization and services you provide as well as the Black Entrepreneurs you serve to customers, funders/investors, procurement opportunities, and more!
Startupfest’s Inclusion Initiative Is Back!
Startupfest’s Inclusion Initiative provides subsidized tickets each year to female entrepreneurs, Indigenous innovators, and diverse founders from various backgrounds. Startupfest and their partners are pleased to offer passes at a 90% discount ($50 commitment fee). Complete their online application form to be considered for an Inclusion pass.
Virtual B2B Matchmaking | Go Global
Last Thursday of every month | Virtual
Our Go Global Virtual B2B Matchmaking program connects businesses with international partners, clients, and stakeholders through an innovative, virtual platform. Held monthly on the last Thursday, these sessions provide a convenient and cost-effective way to expand your network, explore new markets, and forge partnerships without the need to travel. Join us and discover how virtual matchmaking can drive your global business growth.
Ecosystem Events
At Tribe, we deeply value community and building relationships. This is why we aim to keep you informed about events happening within the ecosystem that could be beneficial to your personal or professional goals. These events foster relaxation, networking and relationship building and might help you find your Tribe.
Make sure to look through the carefully curated events happening within the community and register for any that catch your eye and work with your schedule. These events are mostly free to attend; however, there might be some paid events.
Resources: Jobs, Grants, and Scholarships & More🔍
RESOURCES
JOBS
Finance & Admin Support Specialist | Celebrate Your Curves
Reconciliation Training Facilitators | Joint Economic Development Initiative
VOLUNTEER
General Volunteer at Akoma Holdings Incorporated Contact nmurphy@akoma.ca
Board members at Akoma Holdings Incorporated Contact nmurphy@akoma.ca
PROGRAMS
MacPhee Centre for Creative Learning Programs | various programs for youth ages 12-19
GRANTS
Amber Grants (majority women-owned businesses registered in the US or Canada)
Her Rise MicroGrant (majority women-owned businesses registered in the US)
SCHOLARSHIPS/ INTERNSHIPS
Promotion Requests
At Tribe, our mission is to empower members by offering access to capital, coaching, and a supportive community. We invite individuals and organizations to share opportunities or events with our members by completing this form. Providing us with all the necessary information ensures we can effectively and accurately promote your initiative.
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