Archived News
| | Money Chase 2008 | | | 07/28/2008 | | | Alex Waisanen | | | | | | MONEY CHASE 2008
THE INVESTMENT FORUM · THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2008
Angus Glen Golf & Country Club, Markham, Ontario
If your high growth enterprise can benefit from angel-based financing of up to $500,000, the Money Chase Investment Forum is the program that could address this challenge by potentially placing you in front of interested investors. Companies being targeted are those in the areas of information and communication technology, environmental technologies, medical technologies and others.
Seize this valuable opportunity and start the application process now. The Innovation Synergy Centre in Markham (ISCM) will work with you, at no charge, to help you become investment ready. If selected, you will have the opportunity to convince one or more investors that your proposal is investment worthy.
Should your company not be selected as a candidate to present at The Investment Forum, you will gain from assistance that can be provided by the experienced ISCM mentor network.
The Investment Forum event will provide an excellent opportunity to learn what financing professional look for and meet potential financing sources.
Additional information is available at:
www.iscm.ca/moneychase/apply.htm
The Money Chase Series is presented by the Investment Network of ISCM, a leader in helping small- and medium-sized companies deal with their growth opportunities. | | | Top | | | Export Assisstance | | | 07/16/2008 | | | Alex Waisanen | | | | | | Assistance Now Available for Expansion into New Export Markets.
Ontario Chamber of Commerce, July 15, 2008 - http://occ.on.ca/
Ontario small businesses have a new partner in their drive to expand to foreign export markets. Export Market Access, A Global Expansion Program launched by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) and funded by the Ontario Government, will help Ontario small and medium sized businesses enter markets that otherwise would have been beyond their reach.
"Export diversification is proven to be an effective strategy in today's global marketplace and leads to higher performing companies, more jobs for our workforce, and stronger economic growth for Ontario," explains Len Crispino, President & CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. "By providing a hand up to our home grown firms, and reducing the risk just enough for them to bridge the gap, we'll help them go where they haven't gone before."
Export Market Access is a cost sharing program funded by the Ontario Government that will assist Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Ontario in their efforts to expand into new export markets. In recognition of the abundance of opportunities in markets around the globe, preference will be given to those outside of the United States.
"In today's challenging economic climate, it is more important than ever that we strengthen the competitiveness of Ontario's small and medium-sized enterprises," said Harinder Takhar, Minister of Small Business and Consumer Services. "The Export Market program will help Ontario companies enter and expand into new markets, generating prosperity here and strengthening our presence on the world stage." In the 2008 budget, the Ontario government announced $5 million in funding to the Ontario Chamber of Commerce for a Global Expansion Program to help SMEs increase access to global markets.
Assistance is available in four areas:
1. Direct Contacts (international trade shows, fairs, exhibitions, and incoming and outgoing trade missions);
2. Marketing Tools (development of electronic media, promotional materials, and generic branding material)
3. Market Research; and
4. Foreign Bidding Projects
SMEs that have been in business for a minimum of 2 years are eligible to apply. An application guide is available at www.exportaccess.ca.
Canada-Ontario Business Service Centre / Centre de services aux entreprises Canada-Ontario
CALL THE RAP HELP DESK LINE FOR ANSWERS TO YOUR AND YOUR CLIENT ENQUIRIES 1 877-553-5507
| | | Top | | | Ontario-India Relations | | | 07/14/2008 | | | Alex Waisanen | | | | | | Ontario-India Relations: The Infrastructure Dimension. Ontario Chamber of Commerce, July 10, 2008
At the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, the primary goal is to build a more prosperous province. In a changing global economy, Ontario businesses must pursue international opportunities and diversify their trading relationships. The OCC has decided to focus energies on India, where infrastructure needs are great, and Canadian expertise is well known. This report embarks on a study of India's infrastructure: how best to pursue opportunities in this market, and how to develop strategies that are mutually beneficial. The private sector has a key role to play in facilitating this transformation: governments and businesses need to work closely to diminish the complexities and promote the opportunities of entering this market.
Full Story at Ontario Chamber of Commerce -
http://occ.on.ca/Policy/Reports/410
| | | Top | | | Summer Work Experience Program | | | 01/16/2008 | | | Jennifer Vivian | | | | | | Canada Summer Jobs is an initiative of the Summer Work Experience program. It provides funding for small businesses with 50 or fewer employees to create summer job opportunities for students between the ages of 15 and 30. Applications will be accepted from February 1 to February 29th, 2008. Click Herefor Information, Guidelines and Applications
| | | Top | | | Rogers Award for Canadian Small Business | | | 12/05/2007 | | | Jennifer Vivian | | | | | | The Rogers Innovations @ Work Award is a new national program that recognizes innovative small businesses across the country. Companies in business less than three years and with fewer than 20 employees are invited to share their 500-word success stories online -
Click Here
Winners will be recognized at a leadership luncheon in Toronto with the editors of Canadian Business, PROFIT and L'Actualité and will be profiled in PROFIT, Canada's leading magazine for entrepreneurs.
| | | Top | | | WSIB Registration Amnesty | | | 12/05/2007 | | | Jennifer Vivian | | | | | | WSIB adopts BBOT policy allowing voluntary registration without penalties
A BBOT policy proposal, approved by The Ontario Chamber of Commerce two years ago, has become policy of The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB). Previous to this policy change, employers who were engaged in industries that are covered on a compulsory basis were required to register with the WSIB within 10 days of hiring their first worker. Employers who were not registered with WSIB, but who should have been by law, were subject to significant financial and legal penalties. Voluntary Registration is a new policy for employers who are not registered with the WSIB, but who should be registered. Under the Voluntary Registration policy, employers are encouraged to step forward and register their business with terms that are favourable. From October 29, 2007 until March 31, 2008, there will be a full amnesty for voluntary registrants. Beginning April 1, 2008 and on a continuing basis, all voluntary registrants will receive a partial amnesty, including no penalties, no reconciliation interest on retroactive premiums, or prosecution at the time of registration. However, premiums will be retroactive to the date of first hire or January 1 of the year preceding the date of voluntary registration, whichever is later. The policy is not applicable to employers who have been identified for registration by the WSIB's various enforcement activities prior to their voluntary registration. For more information
Click Here | | | Top | | | GST/HST Rate Reduction Checklist | | | 11/30/2007 | | | Jennifer Vivian | | | | | | Is your business ready for the GST/HST Rate Reduction?
The rate for the Goods and Services Tax, as well as the Harmonized Sales Tax in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, will be dropping by one percentage point effective January 1, 2008.
The reduction, announced by the federal government in October, means business owners will have to revisit many of their processes for sales, billing, purchasing and accounting. Feedback from our members from the previous rate reduction in July 2006 tells us that this is not a difficult task, but it does require some planning and careful implementation.
Working with the Canada Revenue Agency, CFIB has compiled a GST checklist that includes general rules and helpful tips, as well as the telephone number for the CRA’s GST Hotline for business owners.
Click Here
to get a copy, and make sure your business is ready for a smooth GST/HST transition.
| | | Top | | | BizPal Launch | | | 09/07/2007 | | | Jennifer Vivian | | | | | | BRAMPTON JOINS WITH GOVERNMENT PARTNERS TO LAUNCH BIZPAL
INNOVATIVE ONLINE SERVICE THAT SIMPLIFIES BUSINESS PLANNING
BRAMPTON - Starting and running a business in Brampton just got easier with BizPaL, a new online business permit and licence service that saves time spent on paperwork and helps entrepreneurs start-up faster.
Today, Regional Councillor Elaine Moore, Regional Councillor John Sanderson, together with Mr. Wajid Khan, MP, Mississauga-Streetsville, on behalf of the Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of Industry, Ms. Linda Jeffrey, MPP, Brampton Centre, on behalf of the Honourable Gerry Phillips, Minister of Government Services, joined together to launch BizPaL to the City of Brampton at an event held at the Rose Theatre Brampton.
BizPaL is an innovative project that provides entrepreneurs with simplified access to the permit and licencing information they need to establish and run their business. This unique partnership among federal, provincial, territorial, regional and local governments is designed to cut through the paperwork burden and red tape that small business owners encounter.
"Brampton is one of the first municipalities in Ontario and Canada to join the BizPaL online network and we are thrilled to be part of this innovative network. It reflects the City of Brampton’s commitment to offer local businesses and entrepreneurs innovative tools and resources to help them create and grow a successful and thriving business," said Regional Councillor Elaine Moore, Chair of Brampton's Economic Development Committee.
"BizPaL is just one way in which we're making it easier for businesses in Ontario," said the Honourable Gerry Phillips, Ontario's Minister of Government Services. "Businesses told us they needed a one-window approach to government services and information -- and we're delivering."
“The Region of Peel is proud to work with our government partners to bring BizPaL to Peel’s business community,” said Regional Councillor John Sanderson. “Providing tools to help Peel’s businesses grow and prosper will continue to make this region a great place to live and work.”
The BizPaL system in the City of Brampton was implemented with the collaboration of the Province of Ontario and the Federal Government. Area business owners and entrepreneurs can access the service by visiting www.brampton.ca/bizpal or
Click Here
The province is looking forward to expanding BizPaL to other areas of Ontario over the next year. For more information, visit www.bizpal.ca or Click Here
| | | Top | | | Reduction In Government Forms | | | 06/14/2007 | | | Jennifer Vivian | | | | | | Toronto, May 29, 2007
The McGuinty government has eliminated 24% of government business forms over the last year in its battle to reduce the paper burden and make it easier for small businesses to operate and succeed, Minister of Small Business and Entrepreneurship Harinder Takhar told business leaders at the Toronto Board of Trade today.
http://ogov.newswire.ca/ontario/GPOE/2007/05/29/c5938.html?lmatch=&lang=_e.html
| | | Top | | | Important changes to business law | | | 03/16/2007 | | | Jennifer Vivian | | | | | | Important changes to business law help Ontario compete in global marketplace:
Most Significant Business Law Reforms In 50 Years Set To Come Into Force
http://www.gov.on.ca/MGS/en/News/117194.html
| | | Top | | | Ontario Government Raises Minimum Wage | | | 01/11/2007 | | | Jennifer Vivian | | | | | | TORONTO, Jan. 3 /CNW/ - The Ontario government is raising the minimum wage on February 1, 2007, for the fourth time since taking office, Labour Minister Steve Peters announced today.
"We are providing Ontario's lowest-paid and most vulnerable workers with the fourth increase in the minimum wage in four years," said Peters. "It is to Ontario's economic advantage to see that our workers are paid a fair wage."
The general minimum wage will be raised to $8.00 per hour on February 1, 2007. This is the final increase in a four-year initiative that began
February 1, 2004, at which time the government undertook to raise the minimum wage for the first time since 1995. It was phased in over a four-year period to allow Ontario business time to adjust and remain competitive.
Other minimum wage rates will also increase on February 1, 2007. The minimum wage for:
- Students under 18 years old and employed for not more than 28 hours a week during the school year or employed during a school holiday, will rise from $7.25 to $7.50 per hour
- Liquor servers will increase from $6.75 to $6.95 per hour
- Hunting and fishing guides currently paid a minimum of $38.75 for less than five consecutive hours in a day and $77.50 for five or more
hours in a day (whether or not the hours are consecutive) will also increase to $40.00 and $80.00 respectively.
"The increase is part of the McGuinty government's investment in people," said Peters. "By phasing in the minimum wage increases, we can help these workers benefit from Ontario's economic growth while keeping Ontario businesses competitive."
| | | Top | | | Nominations are open for top student entrepreneur | | | 09/20/2006 | | | Jennifer Vivian | | | | | | Nominations have opened for the 2007 ACE Student Entrepreneur of the Year Competition.
The contest celebrates the commitment, determination and achievements of student entrepreneurs. The award is open to full-time students at Canadian universities or colleges who are running their own business. The national winner will receive a $10,000 cash prize.
Nominations and self-nominations close Dec. 8. Information is available online at www.acecanada.ca.
The competition consists of provincial, regional and national rounds. After an application process, 10 provincial winners will be chosen to represent their province at one of three presentation based regional competitions in Calgary, Halifax and Ottawa. Two representatives from each regional competition will move on to the National Exposition to present their business to a panel of top executives and compete for the title of National ACE Student Entrepreneur of the Year, presented by CIBC.
Each provincial winner receives $1,000 and complementary accommodation and travel to the regional contest. Two representatives from each regional event will win a $1,000 cash prize plus accommodations and travel to the National Exposition.
The national champion wins $10,000 and will represent Canada at the Global Student Entrepreneur Awards.
Eligible contestants must be: a full-time undergraduate and/or graduate student at a Canadian university or college; the founder and primary owner of the company and principally responsible for operations; in business for at least the past six months: and not a past ACE entrepreneur award winner.
ACE (Advancing Canadian Entrepreneurship) is a national not-for-profit organization encouraging entrepreneurship among Canadian youth.
| | | Top | | | THE ONTARIO MAINSTREET ACCESSIBILITY AWARDS 2006 | | | 09/06/2006 | | | Jennifer Vivian | | | | | | The Ontario BIA Association (OBIAA)along with the Toronto Association of BIAs (TABIA), in partnership with the Ministry of Community and Social Services are
developing resources to help small businesses increase their awareness of accessibility and to promote accessibility best practices in their businesses.
As part of this initiative we are pleased to announce:
THE ONTARIO MAINSTREET ACCESSIBILITY AWARDS 2006
Deadline for nominations: September 28th, 2006
If you are aware of small businesses or communities that have shown
leadership in improving accessibility through physical modifications or
customer service - please encourage them to apply for the Award.
Detailed CRITERIA and NOMINATION FORMS can be downloaded from:
http://www.toronto-bia.com/resources/OMAawards.php
People with disabilities are a growing consumer market in Canada. Nationally
people with disabilities account for an estimated $25 billion a year in consumer
spending and influence the spending decisions of twelve to fifteen million other Canadians.
The "Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act" (AODA) is new
legislation that applies to hundreds of thousands of businesses in Ontario,
as well as to community groups and public services. The AODA aims to remove
many of the barriers people experience in public and commercial areas.
More information on the AODA and how it will affect businesses can be found
at: www.mcss.gov.on.ca/mcss/english/pillars/accessibilityOntario
The following additional resources can be viewed or downloaded at:
http://www.toronto-bia.com/resources/accessibility.php
* 3D Animated Video "Mainstreet Ontario" - Take a stroll down Main Street
and see if you can solve the accessibility dilemmas.
* Missed Business? A guide for small business: How to attract more customers
by providing better access to your business.
* Accessibility Tipsheets - Tips to help you welcome customers with
disabilities and make your business more accessible.
Awards brochures can be obtained by sending an email to: info@toronto-bia.com
| | | Top | | | Homemade food sales to fall under new regulations | | | 05/31/2006 | | | Jennifer Vivian | | | | | | New rules for regulating homemade jams, pies and other foods sold at farmers' markets are in the works, Health Minister George Smitherman said Tuesday. Public health inspections at provincial markets made headlines last fall when some eastern Ontario farmers complained that officials were overly aggressive in applying food safety guidelines. Smitherman admitted Tuesday that enforcement across Ontario has not been consistent. Smitherman said new "modernized" rules could be in place as early as this fall. He said his ministry would consult with the province's medical officer of health and Farmers' Markets Ontario. Ontario's 36 public health units have been told to take a more "educational, proactive" approach to food health and safety instead of focusing on strict enforcement, Smitherman told the Toronto Star. "There is a small cross-section of folks out there that are willing to use farmers' markets to sell things like unpasteurized milk," he told the newspaper, noting that some children in Newmarket, Ont., became severely ill after drinking such milk last year. "There are genuine risks that need to be well-managed, but we think it can be done on a more proactive education basis." Premier Dalton McGuinty promised farmers and vendors that his government plans to introduce "reasonable" standards and has no intention of hindering farmers' markets. According to Farmers' Markets Ontario, the popular markets generate about $600 million in annual sales. | | | Top | | | the Canadian Association of Women in Construction | | | 04/12/2006 | | | Cassandra Baccardax | | | | | | Toronto, ON – April 6, 2006 – The Board of Directors of the Canadian Association of Women in
Construction (CAWIC) are pleased to announce the association’s official launch. CAWIC was
founded 23 years ago by a group of Toronto-area professional women working in the
construction industry. Originally the Toronto Chapter 295 of the National Association of Women
in Construction (NAWIC), CAWIC recently separated from its U.S. based parent organization.
CAWIC will continue to maintain its ties with NAWIC and will also establish unilateral and
multilateral relationships with similar associations in the United Kingdom, Australia, South Africa
and New Zealand through the signing of International Affiliations.
CAWIC will commemorate its official launch with a cocktail reception that will take place on
Tuesday, April 25, 2006, starting at 5:30 PM EST. The reception will be held in downtown
Toronto, ON, at the TD Waterhouse Tower, 79 Wellington Street West, 16 th Floor. Members of
the media are encouraged to attend. Angela Wilson, CAWIC President as well as members of
the Board of Directors will be available for interviews.
R.S.V.P by April 17th 905-738-2054 ext. 425
Business Casual
$55.00 per person in advance
$65.00 at the door | | | Top | | | New Reference Materials | | | 04/03/2006 | | | Jennifer Vivian | | | | | | We have expanded our reference library to include the following new publications.
Please note these materials are for reference only and can not be removed from the Enterprise Centre.
-Profit - Your Guide To Business Success
-Entrepreneur's StartUps
-Franchise Canada
-Canadian Business
-Fast Company
-Business Opportunities
-Managing for Dummies
-Canadian Small Business Kit for Dummies
-Starting an eBay Business for Dummies
-Business Plans Kit for Dummies
-The Complete Idiot's Guide to Starting Your Own Business
-The Complete Idiot's Guide to Franchising
-E Myth Mastery
-Brain Tattoos - Creating Unique Brands That Stick In Your Customers'Minds
-The Entrepreneur & Small Business Problem Solver
-If You've Raised Kids, You Can Manage Anything
-The Tipping Point - How Little Things Can Make A Big Difference
-The First-Time Manager
-Why Customers Do What They Do
-What No One Ever Tells You About Starting Your Own Business
-Confessions Of Shameless Self-Promoters
-The Everything Business Planning Book
-Secrets To Building A Winning Business
-Today Matters
-Microsoft Office System 2003 Edition - Plain & Simple
-Global Business Today
-Low -Budget Online Marketing for Small Business (Self Counsel Press)
-Financing Your Business - Get a Grip on Finding the Money (Self Counsel Press)
-Market Research Made Easy (Self Counsel Press)
-How Women Make Money
-A Shop Of Own's Own
-101 Best Home-Based Businesses For Women
-Clearing The Hurdles - Women Building High-Growth Businesses
-Standing at the Crossroads - Next Steps for High Achieving
| | | Top | | | Energize! Event October 27th Provided Fuel | | | 01/20/2006 | | | Jennifer Vivian | | | | | | Energize! Event October 27th Provided Fuel
A big thanks is extended to everyone who participated at our Oct. 27th event, "Energize! Fuel for the Entrepreneurial Mind". The morning was an overwhelming success, sold out with more than 100 in attendance. Small business is the backbone of Ontario's economy, and a critical component to our province's economic growth. Each year the Ontario government wants to thank and congratulate small business owners for their contributions. There are 340,000 small and medium-sized businesses in Ontario, and 45% of them have fewer than 5 employees. The small businesses make a substantial contribution to the quality of life in this country. Almost 50% of all new jobs in 2004 were created in the small business sector.
We thank the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development and Trade (www.ontariocanada.com) and the Canada Ontario Business Service Centre (www.cbsc.org/ontario) for co-sponsoring the morning.
Participants had the chance to meet with 4 of 14 experts to ask burning questions. We wish to extend our thanks once again to these volunteers: Jeff Bowman, Bowman Training Initiatives and Neil Beattie, Sheridan College (Sales Skills) ; Christine Porter, X-Tine Promotions and Janet Proctor, City of Brampton (Marketing Strategies & Promotion) ; Emma Duncan, Brampton Library (Marketing Research); Sheldon Leiba, The Brampton Board of Trade (Customer Service); Donna Cragg, Tonus Business Growth Solutions and Gosta Isakson, The Viking Enterprise (Strategic Planning); Raj Sharda, Sharda Law (Incorporation/Legal); Glenn Williams, Williams Financial Management (Accounting/Taxation); Lavern Mahoney, RBC Royal Bank, (Finance-Banking); Kerrie George, MyHRToolKit.com (HR); Luciano Borsato, brampton.com (Electronic Marketing); and Maralyn Cale, Lifecycle Coaching (Personal Coach). We also wish to thank The Brampton Business Times for sending out their photographer/reporter (check out the December edition!), and Heather Ennis of The Brampton Guarding for offering "Five Minutes with the Media" to eight lucky participants. Look for upcoming Guardian articles.
Finally, a thank you must go out to our keynote speaker, Paul Meisner of Tonus Business Growth Solutions for his wisdom and motivation.
| | | Top | | | McGuinty Government helps Small Business Succeed | | | 11/04/2005 | | | Jennifer Vivian | | | | | | McGuinty Government helps Small Business Succeed
New Online Regulatory Registry gives Business Owners a Stronger Voice
TORONTO, Oct. 5 /CNW/ - The Ontario government, through the Small
Business Agency of Ontario, today launched a new online Regulatory Registry
(www.regulatoryregistry.ontariocanada.com/registry/), a first step in making
it easier for small businesses to operate. The Regulatory Registry will provide information on the government's
regulatory proposals and approved regulations that affect business. Business
and the public are invited to comment on new regulatory proposals.
| | | Top | | | Summer Company 2005 | | | 11/04/2005 | | | Jennifer Vivian | | | | | | SUMMER COMPANY 2005
Youth Entrepreneurship Program up to $3000 in awards/funding.
Run your own business this summer!
The 2005 Summer Company Program is coming to an end and all our students will be heading back to school in the next couple of weeks. This summer was an outstanding success for the program as well as the students. Many of these young entrepreneurs will be continuing their businesses so please don't hesitate to contact them if you are interested in their services.
Lisa Bland, Personal Training Services
416-270-1353
Shannon Walker, Citrus Moon
905-840-6186 or visit her website at www.citrus-moon.com
John Kidd, Off Road Mechanical
905-460-6251
Jeff Sarty, Horizon Landscape & Design
416-580-7845
James Williams, Churchville Contracting
416-616-1448
Dustin Thibodeau, Symbiont Boards & Apparel
905-799-3329 or visit his website at http://www.arthurwilman.com/symbiont/symbiont.htm
Jessica Metcalfe, Music with Momentum
416-YOU-ROCK (416-968-7625) or visit her website at www.musicwithmomentum.com
If you are interested in contacting any one of the Summer Company participants or learning more about the program, please feel free to contact the SBEC at (905) 874-3630 | | | Top | | | ENERGIZE Fuel for the Entrepreneurial Mind | | | 10/27/2006 | | | Jennifer Vivian | | | | | | ENERGIZE
FUEL FOR THE ENTREPRENEURIAL MIND
A Business Development Event for Small Enterprises from All Sectors
Register prior to October 24th and participation in the event is FREE. Registration will be taken at the door for $25 (GST incl.) if space permits (sold out in ’04). Register by calling the Brampton Small Business Enterprise Centre at 905-874-2650 or send an e-mail with your personal name, business name, business description, phone and e-mail address to sbec@brampton.ca
This event is suited to early-growth businesses from all sectors.
Thursday, October 27, 2005
7:45 a.m. – 12:00 noon
Century Gardens Recreation Centre, Rutherford & Vodden
Advance Registration: FREE
Registration at the Door: $25
Gift Bag Promo: $25
For more information & a copy of the flyer promoting this event - please click here
| | | Top | | | Women's Start Up Stories - Summary | | | 10/28/2005 | | | Cassandra Baccardax | | | | | | If you attended WSUS and want to refresh your memory on some of the speakers' secrets to success, see below:
Women’s Start Up Stories
– September 28/05
Christine Porter – X-Tine Marketing
· Designer Carl Williams wanted a name for his line of clothing which would inspire him to achieve more. He named his first line “Paul Can-I”
· Her children keep her motivated and grounded.
· Volunteers with summercompany and a bizcamp program.
· One of her protégés designed “Life is Never Still” – backdrop graphics for Canadian Idol
· Motivated to earn enough income to cover her mortgage and shoe addiction
· Gut instincts said yes when other people said no
· Wanted to “call her own shots” and earn unlimited income
· Had to find encouragement to fuel her passion
Tips:
1. Prepare a written business plan with lots of marketing research, SWOT, strategies and cash flow; still remembers 1st year sales to the penny!
2. Build relationships: lonely being an entrepreneur; join networking groups like Board of Trade. Surround yourself with positive people
3. Change your physiology: exercise physically, mentally and emotionally. Find a mantra or song; hers is “I believe I can fly”.
4. Go for your BHOG “Big Hairy Audacious Goal”
THEMES: planning and research; build positive people around you; positive attitude; take care of self
Gayle Wilding – Heritage Draperies
· Launched business 23 years ago, when she had a newborn and a 2-year old
· Wanted flexibility; didn’t go into business for the short workweeks!
· Flair for decorating, and considered a flower shop
· Research suggested floral was not the right type of business; discovered a drapery franchise
· Franchisor went bankrupt just 6 months after Gayle bought in; lost her entire “safety umbrella” of the franchise; had to develop her own concepts, product lines etc.
· Landlord showed her great faith – let her take the premise with no $ down
· Five years later, Gayle bought her current location, the pink house, across the street from her original location
· Always a juggling act.
· Like a roller coaster – you must be ready for the ups and downs
· Strong team at home and at work – everyone pitches in
· Some memorable jobs: 1. Bedroom curtains for the Duke of Kent when he visited (in 2002?) 2. New curtains for the provincial Legislative Assembly when Liberals replaced Conservatives 3. Keynote speaker at a Hunter Douglas convention researched 16 stores before hiring Gayle
· Emphasized the importance of good relationships with suppliers, for solid customer service, emergency favours and occasionally, perks!
· Keep up on latest trends (whether in design business or any other industry)
· Ask lots of questions of your customers
· Repeats and referrals are important/valuable
· Be honest with your customers; most will understand minor delays/snags if you’re up front
· Rewards: your customers’ thanks
· Join Brampton Board of Trade
THEMES: courage, faith, honesty, research
Paula Jones – Open Page Wholesalers & Tchawright Designs
· Passion for history and genealogy
· Visited Utah and discovered scrapbooking
· Very supportive husband and scrapbooking (as a hobby) got her through the trials of raising 5 children
· Personal success, not just financial is important; figure out what you want to do, what you’re passionate about and the money will follow
· 300 independent scrapbook stores in Canada
· No Canadian research available on this emerging market; she is pioneering
· Started as a hobby, then a part-time/occasional business
· In 2003 considered a hair dressing franchise but in the end decided no – where was her passion for that? None
· Later in ‘03: “Aha” moment: asked at a scrapbooking show to be an educational rep. It was crazy-busy but she wasn’t making any money, then finally things started to roll, and she was building a name for herself. Difficulties trying to price her services and discover her value. She was able to require minimum attendance at workshops, but despite this, didn’t cancel a 1-person workshop. That one person turned out to be the VP Marketing for Fuji Canada. Recently she has been able to get an article published in Chatelaine (November 2005 issue).
· Best advice she received from Brampton SBEC: “I deserve it!” “I am worth it!”
· 13 TV shows across Ontario, can’t believe she is getting paid to do this because she had so much fun
· Found a gap in the marketplace – only one Canadian distributor (B.C.) and launched Open Page Wholesalers, a scrapbooking distribution company, in spring 2005. September ’05 sales were 3x August’s! Outgrowing her 4000 square feet
THEMES: Reality of fighting to find what you want; things happen for a reason; I am worth it!
COMMONALITIES OF ALL THREE STORIES:
· Raising children while raising a business
· Faith – trust your instincts
· Positive attitude and Energy
· Passion
· Planning and Research
· Networking
| | | Top | | | Women's Start Up Stories | | | 09/28/2005 | | | Cassandra Baccardax | | | | | | Women's Start Up Stories
Wednesday, September 28th
9:30-11:30 a.m.
Brampton Library
Chinguacousy Branch, basement level, 150 Central Park Dr.
Hear the inspiring start up successes (and struggles!) from three women Brampton business owners. If you've dreamed of your own business, or already have one, you'll want to hear these real stories and network with other women entrepreneurs who share the vision of entrepreneurship.
** Free! **
Call 905-874-2650 to reserve your seat. | | | Top | | | Small Business Quarterly | | | 06/13/2005 | | | Industry Canada | | | | | | www.strategis.gc.ca/SMEquarterly
Headlines:
-Women Entrepreneurs
-Job Creation
-Self Employment
-Economic Snapshot
-Financing
| | | Top | | | Network for Women Entrepreneurs (NWE) | | | 05/17/2005 | | | Christiane Fox | | | | | | Date: 2005-05-16
OTTAWA, May 16, 2005 -- The Honourable David L. Emerson, Minister of Industry, today announced a $2.147-million Government of Canada investment over three years toward the establishment of a Network for Women Entrepreneurs (NWE) in Ontario.
The NWE will forge new partnerships, reaching women entrepreneurs across Ontario's diverse urban, rural and northern populations, and building on existing federal, provincial and municipal networks.
"The Government of Canada recognizes that women entrepreneurs are a vital part of our economy," said Minister Emerson. "The Network for Women Entrepreneurs will build upon existing services for businesswomen in Ontario and respond to the challenges that women entrepreneurs face."
"I would also like to thank the Honourable Sarmite D. Bulte, Member of Parliament for Parkdale--High Park and Chair of the Prime Minister's Task Force on Women Entrepreneurs, for her continuing support for, and advocacy on behalf of, women entrepreneurs in Canada," added Minister Emerson.
"Today's announcement represents another step forward in implementing recommendations made in the Task Force's report. Women entrepreneurs in Canada should rest assured that this government acknowledges their unique and important contribution to Canada's social fabric and economic prosperity. I will continue to work with my co-chair, the Honourable Senator Catherine Callbeck, and my colleague, the Honourable Karen Redman, Member of Parliament for Kitchener Centre, to ensure that the unique needs of women entrepreneurs across Canada are met," said Ms. Bulte. "As the Prime Minister's Task Force report noted, small business is the fastest-growing sector of our economy and women entrepreneurs are the fastest-growing segment within that sector. There are more than 821 000 women-owned businesses in Canada, contributing in excess of $18 billion annually to our economy."
Women entrepreneurs can now access business information services toll-free at 1 888 300-9308. The Network will provide businesswomen all across Ontario with online or in-person access to business information, counselling, networking, training, and other programs and services tailored to their specific needs.
The NWE will be delivered by Industry Canada and administered by the Canada-Ontario Business Service Centre (COBSC), which provides information to small businesses at all points in their life cycle. The NWE further enhances the COBSC's services to businesses by providing Ontario businesswomen with direct access to the people, programs, services and information they need to start, operate and grow their own businesses.
For more information, please contact:
Christiane Fox
Office of the Honourable David L. Emerson
Minister of Industry
(613) 995-9001
Media Relations
Industry Canada
(613) 943-2502
| | | Top | | | Enterprise Centre Welcomes New Sponsor | | | 05/13/2005 | | | C.Baccardax | | | | | | The Brampton Small Business Enterprise Centre is proud to announce our newest sponsor, The Brampton Business Executive Suites (BBES). Conveniently located in downtown Brampton, BBES offers professionally furnished offices and virtual office plans with a full range of office support services such as a fully equipped executive boardroom, meeting room, video conferencing, data projector, central fax, secretarial services, internet, photocopying etc. which are available on a pay-per-use basis.
Please visit our sponsor's website at www.bbes.ca. Welcome to Dave, Amrit and everyone at BBES! | | | Top | | | Brampton Business Executive Suites | | | 01/01/2005 | | | Cassandra Baccardax | | | | | | Brampton Business Executive Suites
Running your business from a home office has great advantages like a 30-second commute and extremely casual dress code (I.e. pajamas), but it has its down-side too: having to share desk or office space with other householders; interruptions from family members asking you to do things for them “since you’re home all day anyway”; and the distractions of housework and pets, not to mention the TV. You dream of a near-by office you could dedicate to your business.
Small business owners that don't want to spend a lot of money on office space now have affordable options in Brampton's downtown core. Brampton Business Executive Suites (BBES), a stylish office complex, opened Sept 1st with 19 fully furnished suites for rent. Located at 10 George St. North in Brampton's downtown, the site is just walking distance away from the GO Train, VIA Rail, Brampton transit, City Hall and the new theatre.
The facility provides services available in a large corporate setting like boardrooms, reception area, and top of the line furniture. The business also provides virtual office services for business owners who still want to work out of their home and don't need full-time office space. They can come in and use the boardrooms for meetings and it gives owners the convenience, prestige and privacy of having a professional business address.
Brampton Business Executive Suites offers office space ranging in size from 100 sq.ft. to 185 sq.ft. Dave Kapil, building owner, says it's an ideal setting for lawyers, accountants, financial planners, counsellors and consultants.
For information, a tour, or for more detail on exact office space prices call 905-454-7902 or e-mail info@bbes.ca. Visit their website at www.bbes.ca for a virtual tour.
| | | Top | | | Energize! Event November 4th Provided Fuel | | | 11/04/2004 | | | Cassandra Baccardax | | | | | | Energize! Event November 4th Provided Fuel
A big thanks is extended to everyone who participated at our Nov. 4th event, “Energize! Fuel for the Entrepreneurial Mind”. The morning was an overwhelming success, sold out with more than 100 in attendance. Small business is the backbone of Ontario's economy. 58% of Ontario enterprises have less than 5 employees, and almost 50% of all new jobs in Ontario are created in the small business sector. Each year the Ontario government wants to thank and congratulate entrepreneurs for these contributions. We thank the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development and Trade (www.gov.on.ca) and the Canada Ontario Business Service Centre (www.cbsc.org/ontario) for sponsoring the morning.
Participants had the chance to meet with 4 of 12 experts to ask burning questions. We wish to extend our thanks once again to these volunteers: Jeff Bowman, Bowman Training Initiatives, Sales Skills; Karen Sencich, Professional Organizer, Time Management; Christine Porter, X-Tine Promotions, Marketing Promotions; Mike Walsh, Walsh Marketing Inc., Marketing Strategies; Emma Duncan, Brampton Library, Marketing Research; Marcia Barhydt, Willowtree Customer Service, Customer Service; Paul Meisner, Tonus Business Growth Solutions, Strategic Planning; Gosta Isakson, The Viking Enterprise, Strategic Planning; Raj Sharda, Ron E. Folkes Barristers and Solicitors, Incorporation/Legal; Glenn Williams, Williams Financial Management, Accounting/Taxation; Lavern Mahoney, RBC Royal Bank, Banking; and Neil Beattie, Sheridan College, Business Planning.
We also wish to thank The Brampton Business Times for sending out their photographer (check out the December edition!), and Sabrina Divell of The Brampton Guarding for offering “Five Minutes with the Media” to eight lucky participants. Look for Guardian articles on RDL Consulting and SR Enterprises/Everlasting Impressions in the near future.
Finally, a thank you must go out to our motivational speaker, Michael Lewis, (www.michaellewistraining.com) who taught us about the Personal Power Within Us: the power of choice, resilient attitude, positive stress, effective living, boundaries & priorities. His practical and humourous approach was inspiring!
The Brampton Enterprise Centre looks forward to presenting this event next fall!
| | | Top | | | Local Company Offers On-line ISO Training | | | 06/09/2004 | | | SBEC Staff | | | | | | A Brampton Company is the first in North America to offer E-learning for ISO management systems.
Since 1995 Pilot Performance has developed training and resources to assist companies to implement their management systems to international standards:
o ISO 14001 (Environmental)
o ISO 9001 (Quality)
o TS 16949 (Automotive)
o OHSAS 18001 (Health & Safety)
o ISO 19011 (Auditing)
ISO E-learning is available through the Pilot
Performance website www.pilotiso.com.
"The training is presented in one hour modules" indicated Pilot Performace President Jayne Pilot. "and helps to eliminate high consultancy fees"
“ISO 9001 – Quality Management Systems” A Pilot Guide Manual to implementation can also be ordered through the website.
Pilot Performance is a past Award of Distinction winner for outstanding business in the City of Brampton.
| | | Top | | | SummerCompany 2004 | | | 02/11/2004 | | | SBEC | | | | | | Want to start your own business this summer? Be your own boss?
Then Summer Company is for you!
If you've got a winning idea for starting a new business and are a full-time student who is not afraid of hard work, then you should consider applying to our SummerCompany program!
If your application is accepted, you will be eligible to receive an upfront Award of up to $1,500 to help put towards start-up costs and up to $1,500 upon successful completion of the program.
Contact the SBEC at 905-874-2650 for more details or visit www.ontario-canada.com | | | Top | | | Forgery Seminar Added to Small Business Forum | | | 10/09/2003 | | | Staff | | | | | | The Bank of Canada will be offering a free seminar on forgery at the upcoming Small Business Forum.
A timely topic in light of the ever-growing amount of forged money being passed across the country this is a seminar not to be missed.
The Small Business Forum takes place Wednesday, October 15th starting at 10:00am. When the Forgery Seminar will take place.
The Brampton Small Business Enterprise Centre has partnered with the Mississauga Business Enterprise Centre, the Province of Ontario and the Federal Government to present “Small Business Forum 2003 – Contacts and Connections.”
This full day event will give start-ups and existing business the chance to meet with and connect with both small business owners and government experts. With a full day of informative seminars there will be not shortage of information.
Being held at the Government Information Centre at 7765 Hurontario Street in Brampton the schedule for seminars is as follows;
10:00 Forgery
11:00 Youth Programs
12:00 Starting a Small Business
13:00 Newcomers to Canada
14:00 Import / Export
15:00 Financing for Small Business
16:00 Starting a Small Business
17:00 Keynote Speaker - Networking for Small Business Owners
Wednesday, October 15th 20003
10:00am to 6:00pm
Government Information Centre
7765 Hurontario St.
(South of Steeles Ave on the East side of Hwy 10 at County Court Blvd)
Admission: FREE
For more information on the Small Business Forum or any of the seminars offered that day please call 905-874-4057.
| | | Top | | | Caledon Satellite Office Opens in Bolton | | | 10/01/2003 | | | staff | | | | | | The SBEC, in partnership with the Caledon Chamber of Commerce, the Town of Caledon and The Ministry of Enterprise, Opportunity and Innovation, has opened a satellite office, The Caledon Business Centre in Bolton.
Located with the Caledon Chamber of Commerce on Highway 50 South, the satellite office provides residents of that community with many of the services available at the main office.
For more information call 905-857-7393.
| | | Top | | | Brampton to Host Reverse NEBS Mission | | | 09/24/2003 | | | staff | | | | | | The City of Brampton Economic Development Office in partnership with Ontario Exports Inc., a branch of the Ministry of Enterprise, Opportunity and Innovation will host a Reverse New Exporters to Boarder States workshop on Wednesday, October 22, 2003.
Call 905-874-3630 for more details.
| | | Top | | | Small Business Event Has Something for Everyone | | | 09/24/2003 | | | Staff | | | | | | The Brampton Small Business Enterprise Centre has partnered with the Mississauga Business Enterprise Centre, the Province of Ontario and the Federal Government to present “Small Business Forum 2003 – Contacts and Connections.”
This full day event will give start-ups and existing business the chance to meet with and connect with both small business owners and government experts. With a full day of informative seminars there will be not shortage of information.
Being held at the Government Information Centre at 7765 Hurontario Street in Brampton the schedule for seminars is as follows;
11:00 Youth Programs
12:00 Starting a Small Business
13:00 Newcomers to Canada
14:00 Import / Export
15:00 Financing for Small Business
16:00 Starting a Small Business
17:00 Keynote Speaker - Networking for Small Business Owners
Wednesday, October 15th 20003
10:00am to 6:00pm
Government Information Centre
7765 Hurontario St.
(South of Steeles Ave on the East side of Hwy 10 at County Court Blvd)
Admission: FREE
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