Gifts for everyone on your list from U of T alumni-led companies

This gift guide featuring alumni-led businesses and initiatives will help you find presents as unique as the people on your list.

Still searching for the perfect gift? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Here’s a carefully curated list of gifts from alumni-owned businesses. No matter your budget or their interests, we have something that’s sure to fit the bill.

For the planet protector 🌍

Perfect for those who care deeply about the planet, their fellow humans and all things eco-friendly.

Hand crafted travel accessories
We love these hand-painted, eco-chic travel accessories by WearSOS, founded by Lynne Corvaglia (BA 2021 UTSC). Made from sustainable materials and with a modern aesthetic, they’re perfect for those who wear their values on their sleeves – literally.

A grow-your-own-food beginner kit
The ultimate starter kit by Just Vertical for the at-home gardener! This compact, sustainable hydroponic system, created by Kevin Jakiela (MScSM 2017 UTM) and Conner Tidd (MScSM 2017 UTM), lets users grow fresh herbs and veggies. Stylish and space-saving, it’s ideal for eco-conscious urbanites.

A donation to help fight hunger
Spread joy in its truest form! Founded by Nick Saul (BA 1990 VIC), Community Food Centres Canada runs community-based food programs, providing healthy meals while tackling food insecurity. Make a donation on someone’s behalf for a meaningful gift that will warm their heart and yours.

For the Homebody Hero 🏠

Ideal for the stay-in-and-thrive crowd – whether they’re poets, home chefs or creative space curators.

A subscription to a literary journal
Inspire creativity by gifting an issue or an annual subscription to Archetype Magazine, a Toronto-based literary journal featuring thought-provoking writing and stunning visuals. Thanks to Ali Taha (BA 2021 UTM) and Melissa Barrientos (BA 2020 UTM), this is a perfect coffee table staple for the book lover in your life.

Stained glass ornaments and accessories
We adore the whimsical stained-glass fixtures designed by Nezhla Yakub (BA 2015 NEW) for Yaba Décor, her Instagram store. These stunning accessories add warmth and personality to any space. Get one for that bohemian soul – and keep one for yourself!

A do-it-all pan
One-pot pans are all the rage! Help your foodie friends elevate their cooking game with Kilne’s professional quality Everything Pan. Designed for durability and style, it’s a gift that will last. Thanks to founder Mike Gettis (BASc 2006) for the covetable colour options!

For the Intrepid Adventurer 🌿✈️

For wanderers, nomads and free spirits who love to explore and connect with the world.

A hoodie that spreads love
We’re loving the “Inclusion is Love” hoodie, but any item from GoodOnU, a disability-positive marketplace, will make a great gift. Founded by Sherry Caldwell (BA 1995 VIC), these sustainable, versatile products help employ youth with disabilities and support charities.

A durable ceramic “cabin” mug
Bring cozy cabin vibes to any setting with these beautifully designed mugs from Cabinscape, created by John Loerchner (BA 2005 UTSC) and Laura Mendes (BA 2005 UTSC). Perfect for coffee-loving adventurers, whether in the wilderness or at home.

A lamp that lights up the path
A blend of artistic design, energy efficiency and portability, these Umbra lamps are the perfect gift for wanderers. Courtesy of Nanoleaf founders Gimmy Chu (BASc 2006), Christian Yan (BASc 2006), and Tom Rodinger (PhD 2007).

For the Polished & Productive ✨

For those with long to-do lists, who are always on the go.

A bundle to brighten sleepy eyes
This eye brightening kit by three ships, brainchild of Laura Thompson (BASc 2016), offers a range of vegan self-care products to hydrate and prep the under-eye area. It’s perfect for those dreaming big and in need of a little TLC after the sleepless nights.

A box with clean beauty products
A subscription to Think Dirty’s thoughtfully curated clean beauty box delivers hand-picked cosmetics and household products vetted by founder Lily Tse (BA 2001 UTSC) and her team to the doorstep of whoever you choose. Plus, it’s a wonderful surprise every time the box arrives.

A bag-organizer for the carry-it-all
We like big bags and we cannot lie – big bags can be hard to organize! Help someone stay on top of their busy schedule with these stylish, functional inserts from Haute Classics, co-founded by Stella Yoon (BA 2005). Perfect for keeping essentials neat and accessible.

For the Pet Pamperer 🐾

For those who love to spoil their fur babies with thoughtful, quality gifts.

Catnip toys for feline friends
Treat those with kitties to eco-friendly catnip toys. Paw Paw Dear, co-founded by Danjie Jiessie Chen (School of Continuing Studies alumna), is a treasure trove of sustainable and stylish pet gifts.

Protein-rich and sustainable pet food
For pet parents prioritizing clean, nutrient-rich meals for their canine companions, Sofia Bonilla (PhD 2017) offers science-backed options with AltPro Advantage. A gift that keeps pets healthy and pet parents happy!

Doggy-bonding workshops
Every dog is a good dog, but a well-behaved one is a dream! Kimberlee French (BA 2008 NEW) runs interactive workshops with Tumblewood canine workshops to strengthen the bond between pets and their owners, making these sessions a great gift for all dog lovers.