Holiday Gift Guide 2025: Shop U of G Alumni-Owned Businesses

Holiday gifting just got more meaningful. Introducing the 12 Days of Alumni Gifting — your go-to guide to standout alumni-owned businesses filled with creativity, heart, and Gryphon spirit. Plus, for the person who has everything, you can honour them with a gift that gives back: make a donation to a U of G area of need and send a festive eCard straight to their inbox. Whether you shop local, support alumni entrepreneurs, or give through U of G, every choice helps strengthen our community this season.

For the sports enthusiast in your life...

Boardball

Boardball brings the spirit of volleyball to any setting with a simple board, a ball, and a competitive two-on-two format. It’s easy to learn, dynamic to play, and perfect for parks, beaches, and backyards. Ideal for the sports lover or game-night family on your list.
Owner: David Borish, BA '16, PhD. '21

Gryphon Sports Teams

For the foodie in your life...

Beck’s Broth

Beck’s Broth is a line of delicious, nourishing drinks that combine the comfort of coffee, hot chocolate, and matcha with a powerful protein boost from bone broth. Each product is designed to support gut health, provide clean protein, and make nourishing your body simple and
enjoyable.
Owner: Domenique Mastronardi, B.Eng. ‘20

Cullen Foods

Rooted in food, farming, and community, Cullen’s Foods produces high-quality, Canadian-grown beans with a commitment to a better food system. Every bag is traceable back to the exact farm where it was grown, so you know exactly what’s going into your pantry. A perfect pick for anyone who values thoughtful, local ingredients.
Owner: Ben Cullen, Assoc. Dip. ‘11

Retea

Retea brings the joy of authentic, eco-friendly bubble tea to your home. Our DIY kits and reusable cups offer a sustainable and delicious experience for every bubble tea enthusiast!
Owner: Toby Zhou, BASc. '21

Acid League

Acid League takes acidity to new heights with experimental vinegars, condiments, and beverages crafted for curious palates. Their science-meets-chef approach delivers flavour that’s vibrant, complex, and totally unique. Ideal for the food lover who loves discovering something new in their kitchen.
Owner: Allan Mai, BSc ‘18

For the one who appreciates the sweeter things...

Udderly Ridiculous

Maker of Goat’s Milk Ice Cream made from all-natural, locally sourced ingredients—because they believe dessert should taste great and be great for your body. Goat’s milk contains less lactose than cow’s milk and is filled with vitamins, enzymes, and protein. Perfect for the health-conscious dessert lover!
Owner: Greg Haskett, OAC ‘81

Code Red

BioSnactive Foods makes Code Red, a dark chocolate infused with magnesium, vitamin D, and calcium to help support muscle health and ease menstrual discomfort. It’s Fairtrade, packaged sustainably, and crafted with women’s wellness in mind. A perfect stocking stuffer that’s both delicious and functional.
Owner: Jessica Ulbikas, BSc ‘22, MSc ‘24

Well Baked Box

Well Baked Box offers easy, healthy baking mixes delivered sustainably to your doorstep. Their snacks are designed to taste great and leave you feeling great. A delicious pick for the baker, foodie, or wellness fan in your life.
Owner: Dr. Stewart Russell, PhD ‘16

Honey Bee Research

For the sweet-tooth who appreciates the magic behind every spoonful of honey, a donation to U of G’s Honey Bee Research Centre is a gift that truly gives back. Your support helps protect pollinators, advance vital research, and strengthen our food systems. Pair it with a festive eCard for a meaningful, feel-good holiday surprise.

For your favourite pet lover...

Crumps’ Naturals Dog Treats

Owned by U of G grads, Crumps’ Naturals makes simple, naturally delicious treats that pets adore. Their Canadian-made, limited-ingredient snacks are perfect for training or everyday enjoyment. A great choice for the devoted dog parent on your list.
Owner: Joe Crump, BA ’90 and Margot Crump BA’90

Pet Trust

For the animal lover on your list, a donation to OVC Pet Trust is a meaningful way to honour the pets who shape our lives. Your gift supports life-changing veterinary care, groundbreaking research, and healthier futures for animals everywhere. Pair it with a festive eCard for a thoughtful, feel-good holiday surprise.

Not seeing the perfect fit on this list? You can always make a gift to any U of G area your special someone cares about and send a personalized eCard to let them know. It’s a meaningful way to give something truly tailored to what they love. Create the perfect personalized eCard

Are you a U of G grad who would like to see your business featured here? Reach out to us at alumni@uoguelph.ca to tell us more about your business!