Off the Ground Blog
Enterprising Non-Profits (Enp) Guest Blog: What is Social Enterprise?
Here at the SBA we have been hearing a lot of talk about social enterprise, but we didn't really know much about it. So we decided to ask the experts! David LePage and Michelle Eggli, of Enterprising Non-Profits, are our guest bloggers this month.Read their post to learn what exactly a social enterprise is, why to build a social enterprise, and some strategies for success.
Cool Tools: Helping you find consumer data
The SBA poll revealed that many prospective entrepreneurs are struggling to find the consumer data that they need to create effective business and marketing plans. That's why this blog includes a few of our favourite sources for consumer trends and demographic information. Local Information Community Information Database (CID) | This free resource offers users access to socioeconomic data for communities across Canada. Use the business registry to find out the types of businesses your community already supports.
Calling on the crowd: Is crowdfunding right for your business?
Crowdfunding has been generating a lot of buzz lately, so the SBA decided to hop on the bandwagon and explore the potential impact of crowdfunding for BC enterprises.
Self-employment and retirement trends in rural BC
In the recent report, A profile of self-employment in rural and small town Canada: Is there an impending retirement of self-employed business operators?, Statistics Canada describes self-employment in rural Canada and reveals which sectors are expected to experience high levels of retirement in the coming years. Here are a few of the highlights. Please see the report for details.
Is anyone out there listening? Tools to measure your social media impact
These days it seems like everyone is on the social media bandwagon, but how can you assess the effectiveness of your social media strategy?
Help Wanted: How to attract (and keep) quality staff
So, you have established your business and it's a roaring success. The only problem is you’re so busy you can’t take a day off to relax! It’s time to hire some help. Although it is exciting, the hiring process can also be daunting, especially if you have never done it before. That's why the SBA has collected some great resources to make the process easier. To find our complete list visit the Management and Human Resources page. Hiring Staff
Aboriginal Business Education and Resources: A look at Ch'nook Indigenous Business Education
June is Aboriginal History month, a time to recognize and honour the cultures and contributions of Aboriginal people in Canada. The SBA would like to take this opportunity to highlight a few resources for aspiring entrepreneurs that identify as Aboriginal.
Quick Tips to Start Your Industry Research
According to a 2010 RBC poll, one-third of Canadians like the idea of starting their own business and one-fifth are actually planning to launch a business in the next five years! Well, it looks like some of our readers are part of that group and are just starting their business research.
2012: Hottest Industries for Entrepreneurs
Are you eager to start a business, but not sure which industry to tackle? You’re in luck! Inc. Magazine has just released their annual list of the top industries for start-ups.