AHC takes part in the 43rd Annual BDC Small Business Week
Small Business Week is an annual celebration of Canadian entrepreneurs and their contribution to Canada’s economy since 1979. This annual event is organized by the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) every third week of October.
The celebration gathers entrepreneurs (prospective and existing) at conferences, workshops, business pitching competitions, luncheons, and trade fairs across Canada. The goal is to provide them with opportunities to learn, network, share ideas and socialize with fellow business owners and potential investors.
However, existing entrepreneurs and start-ups struggle to take off in implementing their plans and solving their urgent business needs. This is due to their lack of initial booster, either “in kind” or “indirect cash” support.
Considering these concerns, AHC’s Business Support Program (BSP) joined this year’s Nationwide Small Business Week Celebration. A series of activities were organized to meet the needs of Edmonton’s local entrepreneurs. Below is the overview of each activity:
- Mixer & Tradeshow: Hosted by the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce on October 17, 2022, where BSP clients had a chance to connect and engage in meaningful conversations with exhibitors and co-participants.
- Webinar on the Legal Fundamentals of Running a Business in Canada: Conducted on October 18, 2022 via Zoom with guest speaker Avish Nanda, a legal expert who specializes in civil, commercial, and public law litigation.
- Webinar on Becoming Ready for Financing: Held via Zoom with guest speaker Colin Christensen, where he discussed in-depth on how to prepare and avail of a business loan.
- Pitching Competition: Took place on October 21, 2022, where contestants had a chance to demonstrate and perfect their pitching skills aiming to increase sales and win partnerships. The competition aimed to enhance their business confidence by developing a winning mindset. Eight contenders presented their business ideas in a 2-minute speech to the judges and spectators. Upcycled products, arts and crafts, travel and tours, interior designs, and daycare services were a few of the business ideas presented during the pitching.
Iris Camacho bagged first place, Areej Allem in second place, Esperance Dongo in third place, and Anne Marie Camara in fourth place.
All the winners were awarded cash prizes, one-on-one mentoring sessions, and access to training materials, and more.
View images of the event below.
