Before developing a policy, examine your business goals. You may want to limit the number of customers to whom credit should be extended based on the frequency or volume of their orders and payment history. If your business has serious cash flow problems, you may not want to extend credit at all. As well, you will want to ensure your collection processes generate the results you hope to achieve.

Consider the following before setting your Credit Policy:

• Why do I want to extend credit?
• What do I want to achieve by extending credit?
• What costs are associated with the policy in terms of cash tied up?
• Is my business such that I even need to extend credit?

Credit policies should be directed toward some business goals. You cannot set rational credit objectives unless you know where your business is headed.

Remember, credit is the same as having your business extend an unsecured loan to its customers. Ask yourself if you can afford to extend such credit. Avoid borrowing from the bank and paying interest to support cash flow shortages caused by slow-paying customers, as this is bound to cause you further serious cash problems.

Before you extend credit to your customers, you need to know how much your business can realistically afford. The answer to this will depend on your cash flow. If you have enough cash flow to support your business or a surplus, you may want to relax your credit policy, which will translate into higher Receivables. On the other hand, if you are constantly in a cash crunch, a strict policy should be considered.

Think of a Credit Policy as your way of making your customers pay you when you want them to. Again, how you set it up should depend on your cash flow as well as what’s normal for your industry and your own business objectives.

Factors to consider:

• Research what is normal for your industry. This can be your yardstick.
• The better you know your customers, the more likely you are to offer them credit.
• The bigger your customers, the greater the potential for them to dictate a credit policy that ties up large chunks of your cash, or significantly hurts your business if the customer fails to pay.
• How is your cash position? The stronger it is, the better your ability to support a credit policy.

This blog is an excerpt from WeBC’s Financial Workbook for Small Business, available for download at go.we-bc.ca/LearningGuides

Other Resources to Further Your Financial Knowledge

“Financial Fitness” is one of our most popular training series, and now it’s available On-Demand! Part of our SMART Program series, these courses are designed to help you understand key concepts, work through interactive case studies and complete activities that apply the learning to your own business. “Financial Fitness” also includes a whole chapter on Credit and Collections! Learn more >>> 

The post Should you offer credit? appeared first on WeBC.

We discussed 5 common strategies to increase profits in a previous blog, so in this post, we focus on increasing sales.

It’s not rocket science: you either need to sell to more people (a.k.a. increase your market share) or sell more to the same people (a.k.a. increase your wallet share).

So, let’s break down some questions you can ask to decide the strategy that works for you and your business.

1. Sell more to current customers

It’s easier to sell more to an existing customer than it is to get a new one, so think about better meeting the needs of the customers you already have.

• Is there an opportunity to increase the number of purchases customers make?
• How can you increase the size of each sale?
• Can you create a subscription service or membership-based option that encourages loyalty and increases engagement?
• Can you provide them with additional services? For example, you could not only provide software but also load it onto your customer’s systems.
• Can your product or service replace something they are currently purchasing from another supplier?

2. Sell to more customers

Consider whether you’re reaching all your potential customers in your current geographic area and whether you should enter new markets.

• Can you sell to new customers in your current market? What do you need to change to do this: for example, do you need to adjust your messaging, increase your marketing reach, and improve your operations (e.g. expand delivery)?
• Are you ready to find new customers in new geographic areas? This could be in another area of town, another city or beyond!
• Should you consider expanding your business internationally? Selling to customers in other countries creates the opportunity to increase your sales volume and may also offset seasonal fluctuations in your current market.
• What is your competitive advantage? Does your product fulfill export regulations? What is your export strategy? You will need to prepare your company before exporting, but there are many resources available – and we can help you access grants and programs to help you export.

3. Add new products or services to your business

This strategy may be like a combination of options 1 and 2, because it may help you attract new customers AND sell more to your current customers.

But, be careful: don’t add a product or service just because it seems like a good opportunity. It should be something that complements your current products. The more focused your products/services are, the stronger your business identity.

Here’s an example. A WeBC loan client, Francesca Galasso, has run Il Castello Pizzeria since 2014. She kept getting requests from customers who wanted to buy her dough balls for pizza night at home. In response to this demand, she launched Holy Napoli frozen pizza, and today her frozen dough and pizzas are available in grocery stores across Canada. Francesca took a product that was already successful and re-imagined how she could use it to increase sales!

• Are there products or services that complement what you already do?
• Is there anything your customers wish you offered? Here’s an idea: ask them! Maybe they love a specific brand of product you offer and would like you to offer more of the line.
• Are there products or services you could easily incorporate into your current offerings, so you can avoid a costly learning curve? Think about options that you already have some experience with.
• How can you incorporate new offerings in your current marketing so you don’t increase those costs?
• Think about what you do better than anyone else: What you are becoming known for and can do more of?
• Could you explore a strategic partnership with another business?

This is an adapted excerpt from the free downloadable Growing Your Business Guide by WeBC. View the guide >>

The post How to Increase Sales: Questions to Find Your Strategy appeared first on WeBC.

So, you’ve decided that you want to grow your business. Will you do it by increasing sales; increasing profits; or both?

Only you can thoroughly assess your situation and decide which strategies are best for you or create unique ones based on you and your business, but here are some ideas.

If you want to increase profits…

Here are five common strategies you may want to consider:

1. Reduce overhead costs and operating expenses

This means more profit for the same amount of effort and sales.

This is a group of expenses that are necessary for your business to stay functioning, but cannot be directly associated with any one product or service (like rent, utilities, accounting fees, advertising, insurance, interest, supplies, taxes, telephone bills, travel costs, and so on).

2. Reduce direct costs

Direct costs are those that can be linked directly to your product or a service, such as materials that go into your product.

You may be able to reduce your direct costs by negotiating better terms with your suppliers, especially if you propose the reduced fee-per-item based on an anticipated increase in sales as you grow.

Try to negotiate rates based on certain threshold amounts.

3. Nurture your best customers and say no to your worst

Do you know who your best and worst customers are?

You’ve surely heard that 80% of revenues come from 20% of clients – but also remember: 20% of your clients create 80% of your problems!

Good customers know that your products and services provide value for their money. They become a great sales force for you by referring others.

You want to nurture these clients because they add more profit than new clients who cost you time and resources to attract and win.

On the other hand, you may not want the business of some customers, and it is OK to hold your ground on your terms and conditions. As women, we often have trouble saying no. But it’s not true that the customer is always right.

4. Eliminate lower margin products or services

It may not seem possible to grow your business by selling less, but it is.

Products or services that have lower profit margins take up the time and resources that you could be channeling into higher-profit areas.

You may find that you are actually losing money by carrying certain products and services, so by eliminating them you may actually increase profits!

5. Increase the price of your products and services

If demand for your product outstrips supply, consider increasing your price to increase profits. If you keep your costs and production the same, you should make a bigger profit.

You may want to increase the quality or features of your products and services so customers see more value to match a higher price.

A word of warning: Make sure increased price doesn’t reduce your sales so much that your overhead costs are now higher per-product or service, thereby eliminating any profit – or, worse, even reducing it.

This is an adapted excerpt from the free downloadable Growing Your Business Guide by WeBC.

The Growing Your Business Resource Guide provides an overview of the important factors you should consider when growing your business, so you can decide where to strategically invest your time and money.

Download the guide >>

The post 5 Strategies to Increase Profits appeared first on WeBC.

1. Look at your assets

• Review your inventory management system. Is there room to tighten up, so you’re not sitting on large amounts of inventory or carrying inventory over long periods of time? Remember, inventory that sits represents cash you don’t have to invest in another part of your business.
• Consider leasing instead of buying. This means there will be less cash tied up in fixed assets.
• Carefully monitor your Accounts Receivable and ensure they are collected in a timely manner.

2. Look at your payables

• Send your invoices promptly. Do your customers have monthly cut off dates for payments? Time your invoices so they arrive just before the cut off versus just after.
• Call your customers and charge late fees when their payments are not received on schedule.
• Pay bills only on the due date unless there is a significant (net gain) discount for early payment.

3. Think about your pricing and sales terms

• Are there ways you can increase profitability by increasing prices and/or reducing operating costs?
• Offer cash discounts to customers who pay quickly (selectively).
• Establish written credit policies and consistently enforce these policies.
• Re-examine your credit policy. Is it possible to tighten the credit terms you offer your customers?
• If volume discounts are offered by your suppliers, take them only if it does not negatively impact your company’s cash flow.

Other Resources to Further Your Financial Knowledge

“Financial Fitness” is one of our most popular training series, and now it’s available On-Demand! Part of our SMART Program series, these free courses are designed to help you understand key concepts, work through interactive case studies and complete activities that apply the learning to your own business. Learn more >>>

The post 3 Ways to Improve Your Cash Flow appeared first on WeBC.

If you’re like many creative types, you have a ton of ideas sprouting like seeds inside your head and new ones burst out on a daily basis.

One of the first steps to creating a business is to get those ideas out of your head and down on paper. Writing ideas down makes them more concrete and doable.

Don’t be afraid to do this! There’s a flip side – just because you wrote it down, doesn’t mean you can’t change it later.

How do you start?

A foundation statement that describes the reason why your business should exist provides a good starting point – it’s the hypothesis you need for further exploration.

Your business foundation statement

A strong foundation statement should be fairly short and identify:

• your business concept
• the customers you will serve (who and where)
• the problem you’re solving for them

Here are some examples:

• For a freelance fashion writer: “Fashion-related businesses in the Lower Mainland want creative, savvy web content updated in a timely manner to reflect their seasonal offerings.”
• For a human resources consultant: “There is a substantial need in Prince George for an executive search firm that specializes in the financial services industry.”

How to create a foundation statement for your business

Your foundation statement is the starting point for your new business. Using the three points above for writing a good foundation statement, put together your own foundation statement.

1. My business concept is…
2. The customers I’m serving are (who and where)…
3. The problem I solve for them is…

Knowing what you intend your business to be and whose need it will meet helps you to not only set a foundation but a clear business path. You really can’t be all things to all people so you need to identify what’s important to both you and your potential customers. Then, you can build your business concept around those things.

It’s never too early to start getting clear about what you do and why you do it because, down the road, your ability to articulate your concept will allow potential customers to understand exactly what you have to offer and how you are able to serve them.

Would you like to make better marketing decisions that maximize your time and budget?

Check out our free On-Demand SMART course, “Strategic Marketing: Build a Marketing Plan for Your Business.”

The post How to Turn Your Creative Ideas into a Business Concept appeared first on WeBC.

Why does it matter if you’re a tech entrepreneur?
Because BC tech is expanding faster than we can measure it, which means government and organizations are investing in tech, supporting innovative organizations and training people to work in the industry.

A recent study found that “innovation” is closely associated with creating goods, while 90% of women entrepreneurs work in the service sector. Pair that with low representation of women in tech (15-20%), and no wonder women self-select themselves out of tech-ortunities!

But you may be interested to know some surprising (and not so surprising) sub-sets that are considered tech, as outlined by the BC Tech Association:

1. Information and communications

This includes companies like communications consultants, companies in eCommerce, and those creating enterprise software.

2. Interactive and digital media

Here’s a big one – companies creating websites, doing social media marketing and creating mobile apps and games.

3. Sciences and health

Companies working in healthcare, diagnostics and biotechnology fall into this category, as well as those working with medical devices.

4. Clean tech

Think energy, the environment and alternative ways to power our world. If you work in this sub-set, there are many government programs to support your innovation.

5. IT and engineering

These are your traditional ideas of tech, like engineering, design and IT services.

So, if this list has opened your eyes, our Business Advisors can help you access supports to start or grow your tech venture. Each technology support program will have its own definition of what qualifies as tech, and we can help you navigate the ecosystem to find the right support for you – including referrals to government programs, accelerators, grants, financing and more!

Applications now open for Discovery Foundation’s EM3 Program

Discovery Foundation’s EM3 Program presented by WeBC is designed to support women entrepreneurs in the first five years of business as they build and grow their tech-focused or tech-enabled businesses.

The EM3 program includes three components: an Entrepreneurial Mindset Profile™ Assessment, peer group mentoring and skills development.

Applications open June 23 to July 14; head to go.we-bc.ca/EM3 to learn more!

The post You might be a tech business if… appeared first on WeBC.

But let’s face it, no matter how determined you are, there will be times when progress is slow, when external factors worry you, or your support network waivers. And that’s completely normal.

So what can you do to stay on track when your motivation starts to wane?

Here are 5 strategies you can try, including some inspiration from our clients:

1. Remember what motivated you to start this journey.

For some, the thought of going back to the way things were can be reason enough to push forward. Build your motivators into your business and stay true to them.

I knew that I was capable of more than the 9-5 grind that I had found myself in, I spent my life in many jobs/roles that didn’t inspire, motivate or keep my interest. I love the challenges of learning, growing and having the freedom to design my career, and help my clients achieve the best in their lives. I was also very excited about building a community around my dream and vision.

Christine Banno owner of SWEAT Vancity, North Vancouver.

2. Focus on your strengths.

Problem solving, people skills, perseverance, attention to detail, organization, intuition, passion… read any of our Client success stories and you’ll see, each woman has leveraged her own unique strength(s).

Embrace what helps you succeed as an entrepreneur.

I am always open to new ideas. In business, things never go exactly as per the expectation. Being too rigid can cause a lot of unnecessary grief. Being open has allowed me to discover new and better experiences and help my clients more.”

Dr. Amanda Chay of The Natural Path Clinic, Rossland

3. Create a mission statement.

Writing your thoughts down helps to origanize your ideas and creates clarity.

Write down why you are here, where you are going, and how you will accomplish what you’ve set out to do.

For me it wasn’t about taking the leap, I was already all-in, but how was I going to do it? How was I going to scale a better, cleaner ice cream product with no understanding of the industry or the frozen CPG (consumer packaged goods) category. I didn’t have any understanding of how the industry worked nor who worked in it. But I believed a better ice cream product was needed and customers would buy it and that I had the chutzpa to get it on frozen shelves.

Lori Joyce, BetterWith, Victoria

4. Build your passion into your business.

If you don’t do this, if your commitment is half-hearted, it will affect how secure you feel in your decision and your ability to move forward.

When we started out, there were a lot of doubters out there (and they’re still out there), who thought that starting a business to change the world was a nice thought, but a bad idea. It hasn’t been easy, but we’ve persevered against all odds. If it wasn’t for a high level of confidence and belief in our team’s ability to make GreenStep’s vision a reality, we would not be here today.

Angela Nagy, GreenStep Solutions, Kelowna

5. Connect with a mentor or support group.

It’s easy to become temporarily un-motivated, especially when you’re working alone. Re-connecting with other women in business may be all you need to do to feel positive again.

An informal get-together with your support team, or participating in a formal mentoring program could be all you need to get back on track and stay motivated.

You get so wrapped up in what’s not working that it becomes overwhelming, and you lose your motivation. Sometimes you start dealing with imposter syndrome. The very first mentoring program I took part in was at the beginning of last year. Being around other women after an hour or two or three, was fantastic. Getting different perspectives was so beneficial. Because you get so wrapped up in where you are now that you don’t really see things the same way; Someone else, given the information, can be more objective.

Gwen Arrowsmith, 4Paws Pure, Prince George

Everyone has good days and bad days. It’s what you do during the down times that will determine your success as an entrepreneur.

Remember, you’re not alone and there are many resources to help you and we are here to support you at every stage of your business journey – take a look at what we have to offer!

This article is based on a section in the Taking the Leap to Entrepreneurship resource guide created by WeBC. Download it for free here >>

The post 5 Ways to Stay Motivated in Your Business This Year appeared first on WeBC.

The fourth stop on WEC’s Virtual Road Trip was Comox Valley, BC!

This fall, our team has been traveling around beautiful British Columbia to spotlight the amazing and talented local women entrepreneurs and their ventures, along with fantastic local partners who support women in business.

Our WEC hosts are introducing you to one region at a time with a number of different women-owned businesses in their area so you can see just what is available all around BC!

Hello to our Host

Back again from Campbell River to walk us around her neighborhood of Comox Valley, Pauline Stevenson! A Regional Ambassador for Women’s Enterprise Centre, Pauline is also the Founder and President of Excel Career College.

Thirty-three years ago, Pauline Stevenson launched Excel Career College in Courtenay after identifying a niche market. Originally the business provided training support for regional businesses. Changing with times, the business transitioned into an accredited college at the end of the 1990s and has been constantly growing its inventory of training programs, offering career-oriented diploma programs, courses, as well as corporate training.

MEET THE FEATURED BUSINESSES

Easy Treats Chocolates

Musician turned chocolatier, Annie Handley, traded her mic for – yes, you guessed it – chocolate!

When COVID hit, the musical door closed but the chocolate window opened for this talented entrepreneur. Her new venture, East Treats, produces and sells delicious handmade, sugar-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan, and keto chocolate made from organic fair trade cacao and cacao butter. 

Her passion for sweets began years ago, but timing is everything! Two years and a number of failed batches later, here they are, offering the perfect recipe that will fulfill your sweet tooth without all the preservatives found in store-bought chocolate.

Learn more & connect with Easy Treats Chocolate:

Instagram – @easytreatschocolates

Website – https://www.easytreats.ca/

On the Fly Cafe

Location: 1250 Knight Rd, Comox, BC V9M 4H2

Meet Andrea Wagemaker, owner of On the Fly Café! Before the pandemic, this airport-based café would be buzzing with customers grabbing a quick bite or drink before they head off to their flight. It’s fair to say that COVID threw a wrench in that, and Andrea had a huge decision to make–close their doors or think outside the box to save her business.

She chose the latter and thank goodness she did, because now they’re thriving! 

On the Fly opened a to-go window, and Pie on the Fly was born. They started off with selling 20 pies in their first week, 30 pies in the second week, and haven’t stopped growing ever since!

With the undying support of the community, Andrea has been able to successfully pivot her business plan. Her ingenuity, perseverance and love for her community is the reason why On the Fly continues to serve customers and bring that little bit of light to flyers every day. 

Learn more & connect with On the Fly Café:

Instagram – @ontheflyycafe

Website – https://www.ontheflycafe.ca

Perseverance Physiotherapy & Wellness Center

Location: #103 2665 Beaufort Avenue off of 1st Street in Cumberland.

We share our beautiful building with Cumberland Pharmasave.

Starting a business is hard in general, but imagine opening one up during a global pandemic! That’s exactly what Anja Roberts did when she started Perseverance Physiotherapy & Wellness Center in the heart of Cumberland in the Comox Valley.

This multidisciplinary clinic includes services in physiotherapy, chiropractic care, hand therapy, pelvic health, dry needling, athletic therapy, orthotic fitting, and massage therapy. By offering integrated therapies in one place, this team of nine therapists hopes that they can offer an elevated level of optimal health for locals. 

Being a mother, Anja feels as though her parental role prepared her for the hustle and bustle of owning a business. Whether that’s having long lists of to-dos on a daily basis, multi-tasking, or just being used to the internal sense of chaos that most mothers have experienced, it’s given her the courage and edge to take her vision to the next step.

It may not have been easy, but Anja continues to use her passion to drive her business forward and offer the services that she knows is essential to her community. 

Learn more & connect with Perseverance Physiotherapy & Wellness Center:

Instagram – @perseverancewellnesscenter

Website – https://www.perseverancewellness.ca

CB Projects

Another business that was launched in the midst of the pandemic, CB Projects is a boutique agency focused on building brands, websites, and events.

As many other professionals did, Chrissie Bowker, Founder and CEO of CB Projects, spent the time during lockdown to reassess her life and priorities. Having spent 15 years in news media, she realised that this was the best time to transition from the corporate world to owning her own business – something she had been thinking about for a while. 

Chrissie works closely with her clients to customize a plan to grow their networks. Taking a thoughtful and artistic approach to developing memorable experiences, she collaborates with both local and international partners.

A true powerhouse, Chrissie is working at full speed with lots of upcoming projects in the works and is positive about the future. 

Learn more & connect with CB Projects:

Instagram – @chrissiebowkerprojects

Website – https://www.chrissiebowker.com 

Design Therapy

Location: 291 5th Street, Courtenay, BC V9N 1J5 (Vancouver Island)

At Design Therapy, the team aren’t just passionate about home décor, they also have a natural love for helping people. This furniture & home décor store specializes in offering quality, affordable indoor furniture and outdoor patio furniture.

Co-owner, Jenny Deters, took her long history in customer service, background in marketing and love for her community and began running this family-owned and operated business that’s been around for over 35 years!

She believes that building good relationships is key to any successful business. That’s why she works extremely hard with her team to ensure they’re finding the perfect pieces for their customers. Jenny is also very proud of her community involvement including serving on Boards such as The Today N Tomorrow Learning Society and Downtown Courtenay Business Improvement Association.

Learn more & connect with Design Therapy:

Instagram – @DesignTherapyHome

Website – www.designtherapyhome.ca 

Level 10 Eurospa

Location: 1025 Cliffe Ave #204, Courtenay, BC V9N 2J9

This award-winning salon and day spa is known to provide their clients with products and services beyond the expected.

Leanne Boyd, founder of Level 10 Eurospa, started this venture 30 years ago, as a full-service salon and spa. Her philosophy has always been that health and wellness is a result of looking after one’s self, which she tries to instill in her business and team. 

This past July, Leanne passed the torch to long-time managers, Carrie McCrindle and Crystal Rose. Leanne is confident that these amazing women will maintain the level of client experience they’re known for, as well as keep the team intact. She has no doubt that these ladies will continue to make every visit a beautiful experience for their customers!

Learn more & connect with Level 10 Eurospa:

Instagram – @level10eurospa

Website – https://www.level10eurospa.com/

40 Knots Winery

Location: 2400 Anderton Rd, Comox, BC V9M 4E5

40 Knots Winery is family owned and operated and has become a staple of the Comox Valley Community.

It was no secret to Brenda Hetman-Craig and her husband that investing in a winery was a huge risk, especially since they weren’t wine experts themselves. Armed with little knowledge and most of their retirement savings, they built a solid business that gives back to the community.

What’s incredibly unique about this winery is what truly drives their business plan—sustainability and community. The basis of their vision is supporting social programs, implementing environment sustainability projects and actively providing support for local Culture and Heritage.

To find out what organizations 40 Knots supports, check out their website!

Learn more & connect with 40 Knots Winery:

Instagram – @40knotswinery 

Website – https://www.40knotswinery.com/

Atlas Café

Location: 250 6th St, Courtenay, BC V9N 1M1

Atlas Cafe has been “serving the good people of the Comox Valley since 1995”.

Described as world-famous because, no matter where you are visiting from in the world, everyone agrees—Atlas Café is a must on any stop-over to the Comox Valley.

Co-owner, Sandra Viney, is proud to be part of not only a successful business for over 25 years, but one that encourages and welcomes community collaboration. She’s a huge advocate for cooperation rather than competition.

Despite the hospitality industry taking a huge hit during the pandemic, they’ve been able to keep their doors open thanks to the shared ideas and support from the community. Atlas Café continues their tradition of brightening people’s days through their consistently fantastic food and genuine service. 

Learn more & connect with Atlas Cafe:

Instagram – @atlascafecv

Website – https://www.atlascafe.ca/

Island Good

They’re a brand that supports and promotes their local community. From potatoes to airplane parts, everyone can now identify locally made products as “Island Good.” 

Suzanne Hedges is the Relationship and Business Manager for the brand, which helps shoppers easily identify local products that are made in Vancouver Island and Gulf Islands. Island Good is trademarked and licensed by the Vancouver Island Economic Alliance, a non-government, non-profit, regional economic development organization serving all of Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.

Born and raised on the island, Suzanne brings an abundance of passion and enthusiasm for this amazing collective. Having come from a tourism and hospitality background, she’s a true ambassador for Vancouver Island’s local and visitor experience.

Suzanne’s passion for people, community and seeing opportunity is what drives her to building a sustainable future for her home and the amazing individuals and families that populate it.

From growers, makers, creators, and innovators, Island Good is the place where they can thrive and succeed together. 

Learn more & connect with Island Good:

Instagram – @islandgoodbrand

Website – https://islandgood.ca/ 

Join us for the next stop on the #WeRoadTripBC in Kelowna, BC. Follow @wecbc on Instagram and discover the amazing women-owned businesses throughout the province! 

The post #WeRoadTripBC: Treats & Eats in Comox Valley appeared first on WeBC.

Stop #3 on the WeBC Virtual Road Trip was Campbell River, BC!

This fall, we are taking a road trip around BC to spotlight all the amazingly talented local women-owned businesses, entrepreneurs and fantastic local Partners who support women in business.  Our WEC hosts on the ground shall introduce you to one region at a time, visiting a number of different women-owned businesses in their area so you can see just what is available all around BC.

MEET THE HOST

Introducing Pauline Stevenson, she is a Regional Ambassador for WeBC and the Founder and President of Excel Career College. Thirty-three years ago, Pauline Stevenson launched Excel Career College in Courtenay after identifying a niche market.

Originally the business provided training support for regional businesses. Changing with times, the business transitioned into an accredited college at the end of the 1990s. Since then, it has been constantly growing its inventory of training programs, offering career-oriented diploma programs, courses, as well as corporate training.

MEET THE FEATURED BUSINESSES

InWater Tech

Location: 1580-A Willow Street, Campbell River, BC.  V9W 3M7

Underpinned by decades of experience, InWater Tech designs, builds, distributes and services smart and dependable equipment for industries that rely on water. These industries include: Aquaculture, environmental monitoring, fisheries stock enhancement, life support systems and laboratories, university and research facilities, and water water treatment. 

After 15 years in science and research, Stephanie King, Co-Founder and CEO of InWater Tech,  started on a new path that led her to InWater Technologies and the best job in the world. Manufacturing Point4—the versatile water quality monitoring and control system she is able to provide reliable protection and peace-of-mind across a range of different industries.

Learn more & connect with InWater Tech:

Instagram – @inwatertech

Website – https://inwatertech.com/

Westcoast Wildflowers

Location: Unit C – 975 Shoppers Row, Campbell River, BC. Right around the corner from the ferry terminal. 

Westcoast Wildflowers is an Indigenous and woman owned business offering high quality, local products from Vancouver Island, BC. Their mission is to support small shops, women in business, and Indigenous small business owners. They offer local and high-quality products for women and children including apparel, jewelry, home decor, artwork, and more!

Ali Assu is a creator and owner of the beautiful Westcoast Wildflowers. From the Wet’suwet’en First Nation and second-generation immigrant, Ali is an advocate of supporting local and works towards stocking her store with 75% local products. She works with a range of small shops, women in business, and has developed The Indigenous Collective, offering a space that highlights Indigenous business owners across British Columbia. The collection includes traditional medicines, jewelry, artwork, home décor, and more.

Learn more & connect with Westcoast Wildflowers:

Instagram – @westcoast.wildflowers

Website – https://wcwildflowers.ca/

Session Taproom, Kitchen + Spin

Location: 926 Island Hwy Campbell River, BC V9W 4C5. Across from Robert V. Ostler Park. 

Session combines a modern, fully equipped spin studio with a beautifully designed artisanal taproom + kitchen. With an emphasis on supporting local, the aim is to make all aspects of our business accessible and welcoming to all Campbell River residents, giving the community a new space to gather together. 

Owner Aletta Clarke and her co-founders, Claire and Cody, have been friends since their early days in Campbell River, BC. Growing up on Quadra, Cortes, and in town respectively, these three spread their wings after graduation in search of excitement, travel, bigger cities, and new experiences. Never did they think nearly 20 years down the road, they’d be returning home to open a spin studio and taproom together.

Learn more & connect with Session:

Instagram – @sessioncr

Website – https://www.sessioncr.com/

RavenSong soap and candles

Location: 103 B – 2266 South Island Hwy Campbell River, BC V9H 1C3. 

A Touch of Mother Nature from Haida Gwaii – RavenSong Soap & Candle is about small batches, created with care using an ancient method that allows Valeria, as the soap maker, to choose each premium natural ingredient to suit skin care benefits and desired scents. This luxury soap is made entirely by hand in the cold process tradition. 

Specializing in luxury handmade soaps, Valerie and her team produce small batches in the cold press tradition using luxury ingredients. Also stocking candles and gifts, RavenSong is a must visit when in Campbell River. 

Learn more & connect with RavenSong Soap + Candle 

Instagram – @ravensongsoap

Website – https://ravensongsoap.com/

Thanks to our partners!

Let’s not forget WEC’s fantastic partners on the ground during this trip, Community Futures Strathcona and Campbell River Economic Development

Community futures Strathcona

Location: 760-B Island Highway Campbell River, BC V9W 2C3

Community Futures is a community-driven, economic renewal program that has one of largest footprints of any Canadian federal government program. Community Futures Strathcona has disbursed $43 Million to over 910 small businesses in the Comox Valley and Strathcona Regional Districts. These investments have benefited the local economy by fostering the creation and or maintenance of 3,600 jobs together with improving diversity among the small business community through our support of start-ups.

Proud of the work they do, their team is pleased to see the positive community impact a small organization such as theirs can have; simply providing a little encouragement and financial assistance to entrepreneurs willing to incur the risk of operating a small business.

Learn more & connect with Community Futures BC – Strathcona 

Instagram – @communityfuturesbc

Website – https://cfstrathcona.ca/

Campbell River Economic Development

Location: 301 St. Ann’s Road, Campbell River, BC, Canada, British Columbia

Campbell River’s economic development activities focus on relationship building, connecting and collaborating with First Nations, local businesses and developers, industry, educational institutions and community groups to help yield strategic programs that promote economic growth and ensure the City has the tools necessary to respond to a marketplace that has become increasingly global in nature.

The City of Campbell River encourages sustainable growth in innovative businesses that embrace future technology.  The City’s Economic Development Officer, Rose Klukas, works collaboratively with Council and City Departments to assist business development.

Learn more & connect with Campbell River Economic Development  

Facebook – Campbell River Economic Development

Website – https://www.campbellriver.ca/business-economy/overview

The next stop on the #WeRoadTripBC tour is Courtenay, BC. Join us on our virtual road trip by following @wecbc on Instagram and discover the amazing female businesses throughout the province!

Next Stop

The next stop on the #WeRoadTripBC tour is Courtenay. Join us on our virtual road trip by following @wecbc on Instagram and discover the amazing female businesses throughout the province!

The post #WeRoadTripBC: Shopping Local in Campbell River appeared first on WeBC.

Stop #2 on the WeBC Virtual Road Trip was Prince George, BC!

This fall, we are traveling around BC to spotlight all the amazingly talented local women-owned businesses, entrepreneurs and fantastic local Partners who support women in business. Our WEC hosts on the ground will be introducing you to one region at a time and a number of different women-owned businesses in their area so you can see just what is available all around BC.

MEET THE HOST

Introducing Bobbi Carpino, Entrepreneur-in-Residence at WeBC, who is going to be hosting this leg of the road trip. Born and raised in Northern BC, Bobbi will be showing us the talented and driven women-owned businesses in the North!

Having spent most of her childhood and youth working at her father’s grocery store, it came to no surprise that she, too, would start her own ventures. Bobbi is the owner of a home-based photography studio and campground and spends her spare time giving back to the community by volunteering as a mentor at WEC, as well as a firefighter, first responder, and training officer at her local fire hall. Join her in showcasing these amazing women and their businesses!

Meet the Featured Businesses

Salmon Valley Campground

Location: Located along the beautiful Salmon River, 25 minutes North of Prince George, just off of Highway 97. 3865 Salmon Valley Road, Prince George, British Columbia, Canada V2K 5X3.

Salmon Valley Campground is the destination for families and couples seeking a peaceful paradise away from home, where they can relax and enjoy the calming sounds of nature and the scenic views of beautiful Northern BC. Start your day at their Coffee + Treat Wagon with a hot and fresh espresso and treat before heading out to your next outdoor adventure. With tons of fun activities in place for their 2021 season, it’s no shocker that their campsites get booked quickly. Make sure to book a site early if you want to snag a good spot!

Learn more & connect with Salmon Valley Campground:

Instagram – @salmonvalleycampground

Website – https://www.salmonvalleycampground.com

Articles – More about Bobbi Carpino; How the Tourism Resiliency Network Gave Me Hope For My Business written by Bobbi Carpino

Modern Match Lingerie Store

Location: Visit their online store at https://modernmatchlingerie.com.

When it comes to women empowerment and building self-confidence, Modern Match Lingerie is no stranger! Committed to their mission to create the freedom for women to embody their own sensuality, comfort, and confidence without having to sacrifice femininity, this lingerie business doesn’t only shake up the status quo, but they want to create a culture around female empowerment.

Shauna Allan, founder and owner of Modern Match and The Bra Bra Sisterhood, is not only an amazing business woman and peer mentee in WEC, but she’s also an inspiration for others to feel confident in their skin, no matter what shape, size, or color. Join Shauna and her team in defining what it’s like to be unapologetically YOU!

Learn more & connect with Modern Match:

Join The Bra Bra Sisterhood – https://www.facebook.com/groups/332622014056886

Follow them on Instagram – @ModernMatchLingerie

Check out their blog – https://modernmatchlingerie.com/blogs/bra-bra-sisterhood

Busy Boss Communications

Location: Visit her website for more info – https://busyboss.ca.

Being a “busy boss” herself, Holly Keech knows a thing or two about trying to juggle running a business, being a mom, travelling, reading, learning and growing. That’s why she started her own online social media marketing company, Busy Boss Communications, to help other “busy bosses” simplify their digital marketing and grow their online presence. Based in Prince George, BC, Holly works with an array of clients both locally and remotely, across British Columbia, and beyond. As a WEC mentee herself, she understands the importance of surrounding yourself with other successful business women.

Learn more & connect with Busy Boss Communications:

Website – https://busyboss.ca

Instagram – @busyboss.ca

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/groups/busybossbreakthroughs

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/busybosscommunications/

4Paws Pure

Location: 1823 1 Ave, Prince George, BC V2L 2Y8. Check if there’s a 4Paws Pure in your area: https://4pawspure.ca/pages/retail-stores.

It all started when owner and founder of 4Paws Pure and WEC mentor, Gwen Arrowsmith, started making homemade dog treats for their rescue dog, Tara. It was through Tara’s unfortunate death from a stomach torsion caused by a commercially processed treat, that gave Gwen the idea and inspiration to start her own foods and wellness company for pets. 15 years later and 4Paws Pure is now a successful e-commerce and retail business that’s impacted thousands of pet lives across Canada and continues to develop the best and purest treats for our furry friends.

Learn more & connect with 4Paws Pure:

Website – https://4pawspure.ca

Instagram – @4pawspure

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/4pawspure/

Back Forty Lifestyle Co.

Location: 1255 4th Ave Prince George, BC, V2L 3J5

Back Forty Lifestyle Co. is a Canadian outdoor lifestyle brand and boutique for those that #livewidely. Shelly Mattison, along with her life partner, Sheldon (also Shelly), share a love of all things outdoors — hiking, snowshoeing, quading, camping, and more! It’s no wonder that they would one day open up their own brick and mortar where they could sell their outdoor lifestyle brand and feature other Canadian brands and products that do the same. Since they opened their storefront in November of 2019, Shelly continues to grow and learn as a member of the Taking the Stage Program at WEC.

Learn more & connect with Back Forty Lifestyle Co:

Website – https://backfortylifestyleco.ca

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/backfortylifestyleco/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/backfortylifestyleco/

Thanks to our partners!

Let’s not forget WEC’s amazing partners during this trip, Community Futures Fraser Fort George (CF FFG) and The Prince George Chamber of Commerce!

Community Futures FFG is a community-based economic renewal initiative that provides services and program support to entrepreneurs and owners of small to medium sized businesses. Along with their LEAP for Women in Business initiative, they are hosting their 2nd annual LEAP Conference on October 26-28th in a hybrid fashion, where they’ll have Dragon’s Den celebrity judge, Manjit Minhas speak on Achieving Business Success in Male-Dominated Industries, as well as 5 other successful business women. Sign up for this incredible 3-day event at https://cfdc.bc.ca/leap-conference-for-women-in-business/. Make sure to also follow them on Instagram, @leap.forwomeninbusiness, for updates!

This would also not be made possible without The Prince George Chamber of Commerce! They are committed to “Engage, Connect, and Enhance” their community by giving their members an opportunity to showcase their businesses in an affordable way. Visit their website to see what events they have in store next month: https://www.pgchamber.bc.ca.

The post #WERoadtripBC: Where to Stop & Shop in Prince George appeared first on WeBC.

This fall, Women’s Enterprise Centre is taking a virtual road trip around BC to spotlight all the amazingly talented local women-owned businesses, entrepreneurs and fantastic local Partners who support women in business.

Visiting one region at a time, our WEC hosts on the ground will be introducing you to a number of different women-owned businesses so you can see just what is available all around BC!

The first stopover on our virtual road trip was Whistler, BC – a year round resort town and playground for adventurers!

MEET THE HOST

Our WEC host for this leg of the trip was Jacquie McLean, WeBC’s Marketing & Communications Coordinator.

Jacquie’s love of snowboarding, hiking, camping, paddle boarding and aerial arts has kept her in this beautiful mountain town for almost 7 years.  With a genuine love for her community, she showed us just a few of the fantastic women-owned businesses and support organizations in the area.

MEET THE FEATURED BUSINESSES  

The Velvet Underground

Location: in Function Junction, between Coast Mountain Brewing and The Sk8 Cave. 5-120, 1208 Alpha Lake Road, Whistler, British Columbia.

The Velvet Underground is an online and in-store vintage clothing shop owned by Amy Rafferty who is a WEC Mentee! In her own words Amy is on a mission to:

create a brand and community dedicated to promoting self-expression through fashion, art, and music, as well as educating and inspiring a more sustainable and conscious lifestyle both for the people and the planet.

What better way to do this than repurpose, upcycle and sell vintage clothing? Not only does she own and operate The Velvet Underground, she also runs a vegan cafe, The Velvet Cafe, at the same location. 

Learn more & connect with The Velvet Underground: 

Instagram – @shop_velvetunderground

Read her full story on the WEC website Amy Rafferty – The Velvet Underground

Soles Nail Lounge and Footwear

Location: In Whistler village, between Stonesedge Kitchen & Fat Tony’s Pizza. 12-4122 Village Green, Whistler, BC V8E 1G9

Soles Nail Lounge and Footwear is a dream come true for owner Liz Caruso, who is a WEC loan client. Liz was able to combine two of her passions into one with Soles Nail Lounge and Footwear, which is a manicure and pedicure lounge that hosts special events like birthdays, bachelorette parties and girls nights (or boys nights). The space also features a retail section that keeps fashion and comfort in mind. Soles carries a wide range of distinctive and stylish footwear for every shoe lover. 

Learn more & connect with Soles Nail Lounge and Footwear:

Instagram –  @solesnailloungewhistler

Read her full story on the WEC website Liz Caruso – Soles Nail Lounge and Footwear

Treeline Aerial 

Location: In Function Junction, next to Blacktusk Fire & Security and RONA. Unit 103, 1330 Alpha Lake Road V8E 0R6, Whistler, BC V0N 1B1

Dani Duncan’s passion and love for circus started when working as a dance instructor for a summer camp where she then became a flying trapeze instructor. For five consecutive summers she joined the circus and completely fell for aerial silks. Dani’s love for circus arts took her on an entrepreneurship journey through America and Ireland, finally landing her in Whistler BC. 

Her silk was kept neatly folded under her bed for months after arriving, and when an opportunity came up for her to start teaching aerial again in 2015, she jumped on it. This was the beginning of Treeline Aerial, which is now a full-time operation offering kids, teens, adult beginner and intermediate classes throughout the Sea to Sky Corridor. 

Learn more & connect with Treeline Aerial:

Instagram – @treelineaerial

Website – https://www.treelineaerialbc.com/

Heidi The Artist 

Location: The unceded traditional territory of the Lil’wat Nation. 

Heidi is a professional artist, designer, art teacher and mom to two awesome boys. After receiving her BFA from Emily Carr Institute of Art & Design and Teaching Certificate from SFU she pursued a career as a high school art teacher. Once she started her family she decided to leap into the world of entrepreneurship. 

Starting and running her business  from home she has never looked back! Heidi’s original art, designs and art classes are available on her website with 1% of all Heidi The Artist sales given 50/50 to POW (Protect Our Winters) & the SLCC (Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre). 

Learn more & connect with Heidi The Artist: 

Instagram – @heiditheartist

Website – https://www.heiditheartist.ca/ 

With so many amazing women-owned businesses, partners and support organizations in and around Whistler, we only had time to visit a few. However, two stand out organisations doing fantastic things for women in business are:

The Whistler Chamber of Commerce

The Whistler Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to championing their community they have made a conscious effort to support Whistler’s women in business.  

Understanding that a crucial step in reaching equality is to celebrate women’s achievements and increase their visibility, the chamber has even created a directory where you can find women-owned businesses in Whistler!

Check it out on their website at: https://www.whistlerchamber.com/membership/whistlers-women-in-biz-directory/

Providing support for all Whistler Businesses, The Whistler Chamber also annually hosts the Whistler Excellence awards.  In Celebration of Whistler’s innovators, trailblazers and community cultivators, the virtual business and community awards aim to build brands and honour local legends.

Women of Whistler

Known locally as WOW, this is an inspired network of businesswomen, connected to learn, mentor, and share ideas in a supportive environment.

What WOW does:

WOW enhances the development of women in the areas of networking, learning and mentorship, through access to local, national, and international resources

WOW’s Purpose:

To connect and inspire women in our community.

To find out more and join the WOW network:

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/womenofwhistler/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/womenofwhistler

The post #WeRoadTripBC Roundup – Women-Owned Businesses You Need to Visit in Whistler appeared first on WeBC.

Did you know that persons with disabilities are the third largest economic power in the world, after the US and China? While there is an increasing awareness around physical spaces there isn’t as much around online spaces.

Accessing the internet every day, 70% of persons with disabilities will leave a website instantly if it is inaccessible.

As a result, you could be losing potential customers because of something as simple as website design.

Besides the fact that eighty percent of persons with disabilities rate accessibility above price when choosing where to purchase, creating a more accessible website helps to create a more equitable world. 

On August 19, 2021, Women’s Enterprise Centre hosted Kale Gosen, Co-Founder of Humanize Consulting, for a WECafe session where she shared her expertise about creating accessible online environments.  

Here are some key insights from her session to help you make your online presence more accessible:

What is accessibility?

Accessibility refers to the design of products, devices, services or environments for people who experience disabilities. 

Why does accessibility matter?

In the western world these days, you might be hard pressed to find a person who doesn’t access the internet daily. 

This is acutely true for people who’s disability affects their ability to leave their home. Using the internet widely, they not only access products and services but also use it as a platform to share voices, tackle isolation and connect with their community.   

How do people with various disabilities access the internet?

There is some very cool assistive tech out there that helps to convey information on a website in different ways. For example, screen reader software and magnifiers, to name a couple. 

How you set up your website will directly affect how well this tech is able to read and convey the information presented.    

Types of barriers, and how you can minimize them

For most people, if you can’t navigate a website or find what you want within the first few minutes, you leave.  

Here are some things to consider to avoid common accessibility barriers:  

Website design

• Be mindful of your headings and subheadings – Screen readers will differentiate between H1, H2, H3 etc. allowing the user to skip through and navigate the website efficiently. 
• Pick a responsive design – Your web pages will automatically render to suit the user’s device for a better user experience.
• Use simple language – it is easier for people to understand your message and for assistive technology to convey.  

Colour Scheme 

• Use high contrasting colours for text and background – This will benefit people with low vision. It will also help people to battle eye fatigue.
• Be aware of colour blindness – when certain colours are next to each other, they might not be visible for some people. For example, text on a call to action button.
• Use high contrast images – they’re easier to see and help to distinguish text and non-text elements.

Pop-ups 

• Do not use them – They are not accessible. Instead, try an obvious button; people will sign up if they want to, regardless of whether you use a pop-up.

ALT Text 

• Use it! – It provides a short description that will show if an image is not able to load (e.g. in case of a poor internet connection or if the image blocker is activated). It can also be read by assistive tech.    
• When to use it – Any image on your website including pictures, banners, logos, icons, links and buttons.
• How to use it – Describe the context of the image. Try to use 30 words or 125 characters for readability and user experience. 

Other things to consider

• Social media Hashtags – CapitalizeEachWord, this makes it easier for everyone to read each word without running on, including assistive tech.
• Survey forms – provide an email as surveys are not always accessible.

And remember:

The power of the web is in its universality. Access by everyone regardless of their disability is an essential aspect.  

Sir Tim Berners-Lee, Inventor of the internet.

Watch the Recording

Gain more tips for your website in the full webinar recording!

The post Small Changes, Big Impact: Creating an Accessible Website for All appeared first on WeBC.