Placemaking
Beyond business, Craig is a dedicated placemaker, using his entrepreneurial vision to enhance community spaces and drive economic growth. As the founder of the Sandbox Centre for Shared Entrepreneurship and Innovation, he has created a hub for business collaboration, mentorship, and leadership development. In Barrie’s Market District, Craig has played a pivotal role in designing vibrant public spaces that support local businesses and cultural engagement. His advocacy for smart urban planning, including the transformation of Barrie’s old Fairgrounds into a connected urban village, reflects his dedication to building thriving, sustainable communities.
Vision Barrie: Shaping a Walkable, Sustainable Future
Alongside his work at Busch Systems, Craig Busch is a vocal advocate for sustainable city-building through his involvement with Vision Barrie. This citizen-led initiative aims to transform Barrie into Canada’s most connected, walkable Urban Village, reducing traffic congestion and cutting carbon emissions. By prioritizing mixed-use development and walkability, Vision Barrie’s proposed plan could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 4 tonnes per resident per year. Craig’s support reflects his belief that thoughtful placemaking is key to building healthier, more resilient communities.
Sandbox Centre
Craig founded the Sandbox Centre for Shared Entrepreneurship and Innovation to create a collaborative hub where businesses, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders connect, learn, and grow. More than just a business incubator, Sandbox is designed to strengthen Barrie’s economic and innovation ecosystem. By fostering mentorship, peer-to-peer learning, and leadership development, the centre has become a catalyst for business success and community engagement. Recognized as a Regional Investment Centre (RIC) by the Ontario Government, Sandbox exemplifies Craig’s commitment to building spaces that empower people and drive long-term economic impact.
Busch Systems Offices
Craig Busch envisioned the Busch Systems headquarters as more than just an office, but a space designed to foster collaboration, creativity, and environmental responsibility. He led the design of an open-concept layout, encouraging teamwork and communication across departments. To integrate sustainability into the workspace, he incorporated a living green wall, enhancing air quality while reinforcing Busch Systems’ commitment to eco-conscious design. By prioritizing both functionality and environmental impact, Craig has created a workplace that reflects his values—where innovation thrives in a space that is as green as the products it produces.
Waterfront Gym Equipment
Craig played a key role in bringing outdoor fitness equipment to Barrie’s waterfront, transforming public spaces into accessible hubs for health and wellness. Collaborating with city officials and community leaders, he helped visualize the project, identify ideal locations, and oversee fundraising efforts. Craig was instrumental in selecting functional yet aesthetically designed equipment, ensuring it complemented the waterfront’s landscape while serving a diverse range of users.