Contini Electric is a Guelph-based, family-owned electrical business specializing in residential, commercial, and industrial electrical services. Master Electrician, Gerry Contini and his nephew operate the business with a deep sense of pride and care. Whether they’re rewiring a basement or troubleshooting issues in a commercial space, they approach each project as if they were working on their own home. Safety, quality, and trust are the cornerstones of their operation, and they’re committed to ensuring that clients feel safe and secure in their homes and businesses.
Gerry launched Contini Electric in August 2022, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. After two years of isolating at home to protect family members, Gerry used the time to study for and earn his Master Electrician certification. With this milestone achieved, he realized that entrepreneurship could offer the perfect work-life balance, allowing him to do the work he loves on a flexible schedule. The result is a business rooted in family, compassion, and craftsmanship.
With over 20 years of electrical experience under his belt, Gerry was well-prepared to handle the technical aspects of the trade. But when it came to running the business itself, he was stepping into uncharted territory. Searching online for small business resources, he discovered the Business Centre of Guelph-Wellington and the Starter Company+ Program.
The program became a game-changer for Contini Electric. While Gerry was confident in his electrical knowledge, he was new to the world of websites, marketing, quoting, and customer relations. Through curated workshops and one-on-one mentorship, the program equipped him with a well-rounded understanding of how to manage and grow his business. He learned how to build a business plan, navigate customer interactions, and leverage digital tools to build trust and drive growth. Most importantly, the program helped him gain the confidence to believe in himself as a small business owner.
One of the biggest boosts to Gerry’s business came in the form of the grant he received through the Starter Company+ Program. During a session on website creation, Gerry connected with Park Creative—a fellow program alumni—which led him to contract their services to professionally develop the Contini Electric website. This online presence has made it easier for customers to discover the services that he has to offer.
In addition to the website, the grant helped Gerry invest in much-needed tools to better serve his clients, as well as a new company van. The upgraded vehicle, now wrapped with the Contini Electric logo, has significantly elevated the brand’s visibility and professionalism in the community. These improvements have helped push Contini Electric past the startup stage and into a phase of steady, confident growth.
Thanks to the support of the Starter Company+ Program, Gerry was able to take several meaningful steps forward in building his brand and operations. From digital upgrades to business planning and client management, the program offered him the tools and support he needed to thrive.
What started as a practical solution during the pandemic has transformed into a promising family business. With one nephew already on board and another young family member considering joining through a co-op placement, Gerry can see a future where Contini Electric spans generations. It’s no longer just about staying busy—it’s about creating a legacy.
Gerry’s advice to new entrepreneurs? Educate yourself as much as possible. When you’re knowledgeable, you’re confident—and that confidence allows you to clearly communicate the value of your work.
So, if you’re in Guelph and the surrounding areas and looking for an electrical contractor you can count on, contact Contini Electric—where every job is done with the care, pride, and precision.
"I’ve recommended the program to a couple of people already who were thinking of starting their own company. If you don’t have any experience, just try it. It’s only a couple of hours a week for eight weeks." — Gerry Contini