Stepping Forward: Sole Provider Custom Orthotics Ltd. Finds Its Stride with CBDC Hants-Kings
For more than 30 years, Sole Provider Custom Orthotics Ltd. has been helping people move comfortably through life. Based in Kentville, Nova Scotia, the clinic specializes in the assessment and fabrication of orthotic devices, provides orthopedic footwear, bracing, compression therapy, and hip and knee supports to clients from several locations across the province.
But the journey of its current owner, Natalie Webster, is a story all its own—a story of perseverance, lifelong learning, and a genuine passion for helping others.
Natalie started at Sole Provider 25 years ago as its Office Administrator. Over time, she was inspired by founders Jeff and Julie Skaling, who recognized her potential and supported her training as a pedorthist—a process that took several years. “Jeff and Julie were excellent at what they did,” Natalie recalls. “And I saw an area where they were truly making a difference. It inspired me to do the same.”
After years of firsthand experience, Natalie found herself deeply connected to Sole Provider’s services and clientele. “In some ways, watching and working in a hands-on way is more beneficial. You’re living it, instead of just sitting in a classroom.”
In 2021, Natalie had the chance to take over the business. It was a big leap—and traditional lenders weren’t making it any easier. That’s when Natalie was told about CBDC Hants-Kings.
“It was such a relief to have somebody there helping me,” Natalie says. “When I got the call from CBDC Hants-Kings letting me know my loan was approved, it was really, really nice. My Business Advisor felt like a friend who was looking out for me and would do everything he could to help. The support was phenomenal.”
With financing from CBDC Hants-Kings, Natalie officially purchased Sole Provider in November 2021. Since then, the business has expanded its reach—serving clients not only in the Annapolis Valley but also in Bridgewater, Yarmouth, and Greenwood. The team, now six strong (including three pedorthists), travels to nursing homes and private residences, ensuring care is accessible to those who need it most.
Sole Provider also maintains a close relationship with the Valley Regional Hospital, providing orthopedic bracing and fitting devices for inpatients before they’re discharged.
Despite all she’s achieved, Natalie still reflects with amazement on how far she’s come. “Sometimes I still don’t believe it—this journey has been very surreal,” she admits. “I put in a lot of hours and worked very hard to get to where I am. It really paid off.”
“Natalie is a textbook example of how we can help as a local CBDC,” says Business Advisor, Andre Gaudet. “When the bank couldn’t help, they referred her to me, and we were gladly able to assist with the purchase. We’re grateful to have been able to play a role in the future of this wonderful business in our community, and to have made Natalie’s dream of entrepreneurship a reality.”
Looking ahead, Natalie plans to keep growing—continuing to serve new regions, strengthen community ties, and help people regain comfort and confidence in their daily lives.
For others thinking about entrepreneurship, Natalie has simple advice: “Make your life and business journey a lot easier with CBDC. They provide a unique level of support—especially for someone like me, who didn’t have a huge background in business and was kind of winging it.”
Through hard work, heart, and the right support, Natalie Webster and Sole Provider Custom Orthotics Ltd. are walking proof that perseverance can take you a long way—one step at a time.