Modern Entrepreneur Profile: Mississauga's Luisa Montoya

In conversation with Luisa Montoya, recipient of the Mississauga Starter Company Plus grant.

1. What does your company provide/do?

Alliance Cleaning provides premium, eco-friendly residential and commercial cleaning services, we are based in Mississauga, serving clients across Ontario and supporting multi-location partners in cities across Canada. More importantly, we create dignified, stable employment for immigrant women building new lives in Canada. Our team is made up of skilled, reliable cleaners who receive fair pay, professional training, and a supportive community behind them.

2. What inspired you to start your company?

My inspiration came directly from my own journey. When I arrived in Canada at 19 with no English and no network, the only job I could find was cleaning retail stores. That job helped me build my life here. Years later, after working in corporate accounting, finance, people operations, and marketing, I kept seeing immigrant women facing the same barriers I once faced, low pay, unstable work, and environments where they didn’t feel valued.
I started Alliance Cleaning to change that narrative. What began as a small side project has become a purpose-driven company that offers both exceptional service and meaningful opportunities for women in our community.

3. What's been the most impactful lesson you've learned being an entrepreneur?

That purpose is a powerful business strategy. When your mission is clear and rooted in genuine care for people, it becomes your compass, your differentiator, and your motivation on the hardest days. I’ve learned that you can build a thriving business without compromising on ethics, fairness, or compassion, and that doing so actually attracts the right clients and partners.

4. How do you unwind?

I love spending time with my 4-year-old son, Nico. He brings so much joy and balance to my life. We go for walks, play hockey, and enjoy little moments that pull me out of “business mode” and back into being a mom. I also recharge by organizing (yes… cleaning!) and creating content, it’s a way for me to express myself and take pride in the world I’m building.

5. What succinct advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?

Start before you feel ready, stay committed when it gets hard, and build a business that reflects your values. There will always be fear, but clarity comes from action, not perfection. And remember, your story, your voice, and your purpose are your biggest competitive advantages.

6. What are your goals for 2026?

In 2026, our focus is growth with impact. We aim to expand our residential and commercial client base, so we can create more job opportunities for immigrant women in our community, strengthen our training programs, and continue elevating our brand through high-quality service and strong storytelling. We also plan to increase our community presence and partnerships, positioning Alliance Cleaning as one of the leading ethical cleaning companies in the region.

7. How did the Mississauga Starter Company Plus program help you start or expand your business?

The Starter Company Plus program was transformational for me. The training, mentorship, and structure helped me refine my business model, strengthen my financial planning, and build a clear growth strategy. Most importantly, the program gave me the confidence to fully commit to my vision.
Pitching my business and receiving the micro-grant reinforced that our mission matters, creating fair, dignified employment for women while delivering exceptional service to the community. It’s an opportunity I’m deeply grateful for.