THANK YOU TO THE COUNTY OF GRANDE PRAIRIE

for agreeing to become the TITLE SPONSOR

of our Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce 2023 SMALL BUSINESS WEEK!

More information on SBW events below!

PLEASE NOTE:

This forum has been postponed until the new year. Invitations will be sent out again once details are confirmed. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your interest and patience.

First Annual "Your Region, Your Voice"

Thursday, November 16, 2023 (6:00 PM - 9:00 PM)

The Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce invites our members and invited guests to our inaugural "Your Region, Your Voice" - bringing together for the first time the business community and elected officials from all three levels of government representing our region.

Your Region, Your Voice is an exclusive opportunity for members of our Chamber of Commerce to connect with the region’s senior political leaders, who will be on stage together, at the same time, to answer questions from the audience. The room will be filled with thought leaders from all sectors who will share opportunities and challenges that impact the success of our region. Those who need to hear the information and be a part of the conversation, will be in the room at the same time. This event will provide insight for our advocacy efforts and has the potential to deliver insight that will inform future and existing projects and partnerships and identify new synergies.

The moderated Q&A from the audience will be addressed to:

Chris Warkentin, MP Grande Prairie – Mackenzie

Nolan Dyck, MLA Grande Prairie

Ron Wiebe, MLA Grande Prairie - Wapiti

Hon. Todd Loewen, Minister of Forestry and Parks & MLA Central Peace – Notley

Martin Long, Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Health & MLA West Yellowhead

Jackie Clayton, Mayor, City of Grande Prairie 

Bob Marshall, Reeve, County of Grande Prairie 

Tyler Olsen, Reeve, MD of Greenview 

* The number of government officials in attendance will depend upon their schedule and availability. All elected officials have been formally invited.

THANK YOU TO SILVER SPONSOR Community Futures Grande Prairie & Region!

More sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact Kim Brown at kim@gpchamber.com or call 780-532-5340 for more information.  

Ribbon Cutting - Impact Print & Promo

THIS Friday, September 15, 2023 (11:00 AM - 1:00 PM)

The Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce welcomes you to a Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting set for Friday, Sept 15, 2023 hosted by Impact Print & Promo. The location is 12615 100 St., Grande Prairie.

The Ribbon Cutting ceremony is scheduled for 12:00 PM. The full event runs from 11:00 AM- 1:00 PM. Come celebrate with the Impact Print & Promo team for their Grand Opening of their new shop and enjoy some cake & snacks.

Business Quickies - The Art of Networking

Thursday, September 21, 2023 (4:00 PM - 5:30 PM)

Our Business Quickies are designed to be a relaxed and enjoyable way to learn new networking skills, with the added bonus of speed networking with other Chamber business members. In just a short amount of time, you'll learn the do's and don'ts of networking, how to talk about yourself and your business in a way that's engaging and memorable, and most importantly, gain the confidence you need to break the ice and make meaningful connections.

And the best part? You'll have the chance to practice your newfound skills in a speed networking session, where you'll meet a variety of other business owners in a fun and fast-paced environment. Who knows – you might even make a new business connection to meet up with at the next Chamber event!

So, if the thought of networking gives you anxiety, fear not – sign up for our Business Quickies today and start building your network in a stress-free environment. Trust us, it's the best thing you'll do for your business all year!

Cost $25.00 per person includes a variety of treats and coffee

Limited space available: 18 seats maximum 

This is event is for Chamber Members only.

Ribbon Cutting - M3M Marketing

Wednesday, September 27, 2023 (6:00 PM - 7:00 PM)

The Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce welcomes you to a Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting set for Wednesday, Sept 27, 2023 hosted by M3M Marketing. The location is 9923 100 Ave., Grande Prairie.

The Ribbon Cutting ceremony is scheduled for 6:30 PM. The full event runs from 6:00 PM- 7:00 PM. Come celebrate with the M3M Marketing team for their Grand Opening of their new M3M Studios and enjoy some food and drinks. Learn more about M3M on their website https://m3mmarketing.ca/

Business After 5 Mixer - United Way Alberta Northwest and The Centre for Creative Arts

Thursday, September 28, 2023 (5:00 PM - 7:00 PM)

The Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce invites our members and invited guests to a Business After 5 Mixer co-hosted by United Way Alberta Northwest and The Centre for Creative Arts on Thursday, September 28 at 5:00 PM. 

The location is The Centre for Creative Arts at 9904 - 101 Avenue, Grande Prairie. 

Join us for an evening of networking, refreshments, prize draws, and information about our co-hosts. 

There is no cost to attend but registration is required for catering and capacity purposes.

2023 State of the Region Luncheon

Friday, October 6, 2023 (11:00 AM - 1:30 PM)

The Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce presents the 2023 State of the Region in partnership with the City of Grande Prairie, County of Grande Prairie and Municipal District of Greenview on Friday, October 6, 2023. 

This is both a virtual and in-person event which will be held in Teresa Sargent Hall at the Montrose Cultural Centre. Please join Chamber of Commerce Chair Cindy Park in conversation with City Mayor Jackie Clayton, County Reeve Bob Marshall & MD of Greenview Reeve Tyler Olsen who will provide a snapshot of the region in the areas of economic development, community programs, infrastructure, advocacy and intermunicipal collaboration. 

If you have chosen to attend this event virtually, you will be emailed a zoom link closer to the event. 

Registration for this event will close at 4:00 pm, October 4, 2023 for in person attendance and October 5, 2023 for all virtual attendance. 

2023 SMALL BUSINESS WEEK

presented by the COUNTY OF GRANDE PRAIRIE!

SBW Women in Business Lunch & Meet and Greet, with Special Guest Speaker Ashley Callingbull

Tuesday, October 17, 2023 (12:30 PM - 2:30 PM)

Join us for an unforgettable luncheon with Ashley Callingbull, where inspiration, networking, and empowerment take center stage. Mark your calendars now and get ready for a day that will leave a lasting impact. We are looking forward to seeing you there!

Guest Speaker Ashley Callingbull is a household name in the world of social media influencing, Canadian modeling, and advocacy. Ashley was the first First Nations woman to become Miss Canada in 2010 and represented her nation in international pageants in China, Barbados and Europe. In 2015, she made history as the first Canadian and Indigenous woman to win the Mrs. Universe title. Ashley is also an international motivational speaker and role model for many educational institutions, workshops, conferences and award ceremonies. Ashley has spoken at Harvard University, TED Talks and WE Day. Ashley's hard work and charity work was recognized as she received the Role Model Award at the Dreamcatcher Gala and she also received the Top 20 Under 30 Award in Canada. Ashley also received a role model award from the United Nations in October 2015 for Global Dignity Day. 

She has excelled as an actress, television personality, and in 2022, became the first Indigenous woman to be featured in a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. Ashley's versatility and success make her an exceptional role model for aspiring women in business. 

This special luncheon isn't just about inspiration; it's about forging connections and expanding your network. Mingle with like-minded women who are shaping the business landscape. Share ideas, discuss opportunities, and build lasting relationships that will propel your career forward.

THERE WILL BE A Q&A SESSION AND MEET AND GREET WITH ASHLEY AS WELL!

Registration: To secure your spot, click here.

If you would like to book a group , you may also contact the Chamber office by phone at 780-532-5340 or via email at kim@gpchamber.com. 

EVENT SPONSORS: MNP and BFL Canada

There are still a few sponsorship opportunities left for this Women in Business Lunch and other exciting events during the 2023 Small Business Week. Contact our office today and be part of this extraordinary celebration! 

SBW Rotary Lunch with Guest Speaker Laura LaValley, CEO of the Northwestern Alberta Foundation (NAF)

Wednesday, October 18, 2023 (12:00 PM - 1:30 PM)

The Chamber of Commerce cordially invites you to an exclusive Small Business Week 2023 Luncheon, in collaboration with the Swan City Rotary Club. 

This event promises to be an insightful and engaging occasion that bridges the worlds of business and philanthropy. 

Guest Speaker: Laura LaValley 

Topic: Business & Philanthropy: Coaction for Community 

Discover the powerful interplay between business and philanthropy in nurturing community development, as Laura LaValley, the Chief Executive Officer of the newly rebranded Northwestern Alberta Foundation (NAF), shares her expertise.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Non-Rotarians Welcome!

Small Business Week Grande Prairie Chamber Awards of Distinction Evening with special guest Eddie LeMoine

Thursday, October 19, 2023 (6:00 PM - 9:00 PM)

Join us for a night of celebration, inspiration, and networking at the Small Business Week Grande Prairie Chamber Awards of Distinction! 

Venue: Pomeroy Hotel & Conference 

REGISTRATION: CLICK HERE

This extraordinary evening is all about recognizing and celebrating the remarkable achievements of our business community. We'll be honoring our outstanding nominees and awarding the best of the best! 

The night begins with a cocktail reception featuring delectable hors d'oeuvres, refreshing drinks, and ample opportunities for networking. Connect with the nominees, distinguished guests, and sponsors and share in their successes. 

Get ready to be inspired and entertained as we welcome our guest speaker, the sought-after and award-winning Eddie LeMoine! He's the Tec Top 2022 Speaker of the Year, best selling Author and an expert in employee engagement. Eddie will captivate, inspire and motivate you with his blend of storytelling, humor, and practical insights, with his unique blend of expertise in leadership, employee engagement, and success psychology. 

After an unforgettable presentation by Eddie LeMoine, it's time for the highlight of the evening – the Awards of Distinction ceremony! As we announce and award the well-deserved recognition of our exceptional winners and cheer them on as they take the stage. 

Afterwards, continue celebrating with dessert and congratulating the winners. 

Small Business Week offers exciting sponsorship opportunities not only for this event but also for others throughout the week. Be a part of fostering the growth and success of local businesses.

Don't forget to register for the Business Showcase, the grand finale of Small Business Week on October 26. It's the perfect way to wrap up the previous week that was full of inspiration, learning, and connecting with like-minded professionals. 

If you would like to become a sponsor or to learn more about this and other sponsorship opportunities, please contact Kim Brown at the Chamber office by calling (780) 532-5340 or email kim@gpchamber.com 

SBW Wrap-up "GOLDEN" Business Showcase

Thursday, October 26, 2023 (5:00 PM - 7:00 PM)

Unveiling the Golden Ticket to Success Event: Small Business Week Wrap-up Mixer! 

Step into a world of business wonder and excitement as the Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce presents a one-of-a-kind event inspired by the magic of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory." Get ready for a delightful evening at our Small Business Week Chamber Business Showcase, happening on Thursday, October 26, 2023, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Join us at the famous Jackpot Grill & Events Centre for an experience that blends professionalism with pure, golden fun. 

What's the Buzz All About? Imagine a world where every business is a unique and dazzling confection. Our Business Showcase, a splendid mini-trade show, will captivate you as our esteemed Chamber Members proudly display their extraordinary services and products. It's a golden opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of our local businesses and learn about the incredible offerings that make our community thrive. 

Networking Extravaganza: Beyond the enchanting displays, this event is a golden chance to forge valuable connections. Engage in meaningful conversations with fellow attendees, entrepreneurs, and local business leaders. The atmosphere is primed for networking, where you can share ideas, discover collaboration opportunities, and establish relationships that can propel your business forward. 

The Golden Ticket Awaits You! Just like the whimsical tale of Willy Wonka, we're bringing a touch of magic to our event. Throughout the coming weeks, we will be giving away golden tickets inviting future member organizations to be a part of this extraordinary gathering. These coveted tickets promise an evening of wonder, camaraderie, and prizes that you won't want to miss! 

Admission Details: There's no entrance fee if you're only attending this mesmerizing event. However, to ensure we have enough delectable treats for everyone, we kindly ask you to register in advance. 

The anticipation is building, and we can't wait to welcome you to an event that promises excitement, networking opportunities, and surprises galore. Stay tuned for your chance to grab a golden ticket and be a part of the Small Business Week Wrap-up Mixer, where enchantment and opportunity await! 

WANT TO RENT A BOOTH SPACE FOR THIS EVENT?

We cannot guarantee booth space availability, as spaces are limited (30 spaces) and will be on a first come, first served basis. Booth spaces are ONLY available to current Chamber members. 

Booth without power - $125.00 

Booth with power - $135.00 

If you are interested in donating door prizes for the event, please contact Kim Brown in our office by phone 780-532-5340 or email kim@gpchamber.com.

LAUNCH - LUNCHTIME LEARNING SERIES (CCP): CONQUERING CRITICAL CONVERSATIONS

(that you have been avoiding)!

Wednesday, November 1, 2023 (11:30 AM - 1:00 PM)

Join us as we explore how to have those conversations that take us out of our comfort zones with Business and Leadership Coach Jon Anderson. 

Ask yourself, what conversation(s) have you been procrastinating on starting? Perhaps you have a team members with conflict, a business partner (internal or external) not fulfilling their obligations, or a client that is mistreating your staff. These are just a few examples of the situations that you need to address quickly and effectively. 

The cost of avoiding these conversations and/or conducting them ineffectively is enormous. One study estimated that 85% of U.S. employees have some level of conflict at work and that those employees spend an average of 2.8 hours per week resolving conflicts.

On top of that, their managers spend 6 hours per week managing conflict, too!! Whether you are a business owner, a team leader, or a partner in a valuable relationship, these conversations are critical to your happiness and success. In this presentation, we will look at the reasons why people often avoid these critical conversations as well as the barriers and pitfalls to ensuring the conversations are effective and result in the desired change in behaviour of the people involved. 

You will learn a proven approach to confronting someone that not only manages the swirl of emotions involved, but also ensures clear communication AND commitment to action. We will also touch on how to avoid reactive confrontations by creating a Culture of Feedback. All the concepts we discuss can (and should) be applied proactively every day. It is estimated that companies in the top quartile for employee engagement are 23% more profitable AND companies that give feedback have approximately 15% lower employee turnover rates! 

Your relationships will be the biggest driver of performance for your business, your team, and even your family!

Business After 5 Mixer - Grande Prairie Regional Hospital Foundation - Festival of Trees

Thursday, November 23, 2023 (5:00 PM - 7:00 PM)

The Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce welcomes our members and invited guests to a Business After 5 Mixer hosted by Grande Prairie Regional Hospital Foundation on Thursday, November 23, 2023 from 5:00-7:00 PM. 

This Mixer will be held at the The Festival of Trees at Evergreen Park. 

Join us for an evening of networking, appetizers, refreshments and door prizes as well as finding out more about the host.

For more information, visit Grande Prairie Regional Hospital Foundation.

There's no cost to attend but registration is required for catering and capacity purposes.

THANK YOU TO OUR CHAMBER CHAMPIONS!

(click on the image for more information)

For rate information, contract terms and design guidelines, please contact Kim Brown by phone at 780-532-5340 or email kim@gpchamber.com

Exhibitor Registration NOW OPEN!

The Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce and our partner, the Grande Prairie Petroleum Association, are busy preparing for the 2024 Peace Region Energy Show, set for May 15-16 at Evergreen Park in the County of Grande Prairie!

RETURNING EXHIBITORS are entitled to right of first refusal for retaining your 2022 booth space until September 13, 2023.

NEW EXHIBITORS for 2024 are also welcome to register with the understanding that booth space choice is dependent on returning exhibitors until the end of the right of first refusal period.

ALL exhibiting companies' contact information will be listed and included in our printed and online Exhibitor Show Guide! Businesses may also purchase additional advertisement.  

Click on the link for more information, or contact our office by email info@gpchamber.com or phone 780-532-5340. Information can also be found on our website www.prenergy.ca.

CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION: janice@gpchamber.com

JOIN US FOR THE 15th ANNUAL GROWING THE NORTH CONFERENCE!

You are invited to this opportunity to participate in an employer survey, on behalf of the Government of Alberta (GoA) team that conducts the Alberta Short-Term Employment Forecast (STEF). As a valued stakeholder in Alberta’s dynamic labour market, we are reaching out to request your participation in a critical initiative – the Alberta Short-Term Employment Forecast (STEF) Validation project.

The STEF, developed annually by the Government of Alberta since 2011, serves as an important forecast tool, offering comprehensive insights into the demand prospects for all occupations in the province over the next three years. In our commitment to enhancing the accuracy and relevance of this valuable resource, we are embarking on a crucial validation project, and your participation is vital to its success.

By engaging stakeholders like you, we aim to ensure that the STEF results for 2023-2025 accurately capture the unique labour market conditions in your region. Your valuable feedback from the survey will be used to fine-tune the STEF results, providing precise information at the occupational level. This, in turn, will play a pivotal role in shaping future policies and programs of the government and supporting industries in their strategic workforce planning. By validating the STEF forecast, employers will have access to more accurate regional labour market information to assist them in both short and long-term workforce planning. Accurate labour market information can also assist employers in addressing workforce needs such as attracting, recruiting and retaining workers.

Please be assured that all responses to the survey are confidential and securely stored within our department’s servers. The final report will not attribute any modifications or results to any one business or organization. To facilitate your participation, we have attached an FAQ sheet that will assist you in completing the survey seamlessly. We kindly request that you refrain from sharing the preliminary 2023- 2025 STEF results contained in this survey, as they are subject to revision.

To access the survey online, please visit: https://extranet.gov.ab.ca/opinio6//s?s=61236. 

We expect this survey will take no more than 10-20 minutes to complete.

For any inquiries regarding the survey, please send an email to: JET.STEF@gov.ab.ca  

Your active involvement in this project will contribute significantly to the generation of robust labour market information in Alberta, benefiting all Albertans through informed decision-making and policies.

Upcoming Employment Standards webinars

Employment Standards webinars (including live Q&As) are scheduled for the following topics:



• Employment Standards in Alberta – Administration and Enforcement: Wednesday, September 27, 2023 at 1:30 p.m.
• Employment Standards in Alberta – Vacation Pay and General Holiday Pay: Thursday, October 5, 2023 at 10:30 a.m.
• Employment Standards in Alberta – General Overview: Tuesday, October 17, 2023 at 1:30 p.m.

For more information, or to register for one of the sessions, please visit alberta.ca/employment-standards-webinars.aspx.

Worksight is a monthly digital newsletter from the Workers’ Compensation Board – Alberta. It provides Alberta employers with timely information about workers' compensation topics and supports available for injured workers and employers. Stay informed with workers’ compensation business updates and insights — read the latest issue and subscribe today! 

With Canada facing a housing shortage, the federal government is considering a limit on the number of international students. 

Do you support or oppose this proposal?

Share your perspective!

Is 'red tape' holding back your business? Are electricity costs rising in your municipality? How can our network and your local chamber of commerce support your business?

Welcome to the Alberta Chambers of Commerce network's fifth annual survey on municipal red tape and business supports.

Share your perspective in this ~5 minute survey to help us advocate on behalf of your business with local and provincial government.

Click here to start

If you can't open link, please copy and paste the URL below:

https://www.albertaperspectives.ca/c/r/ab-mrt-2023r

The survey closes on September 29th, and we will share the results shortly thereafter.

Thank you!

Alberta Perspectives

We’re thrilled to invite you to an event where two remarkable individuals, Elder Marcel Paul and Marcel Arcand, will share their deep-rooted cultural teachings and rich history. Their mission is clear: to foster the recognition and respect of Sacred Treaties at every level of government and within our institutions.

Join us for this heartfelt gathering, where we’ll not only honour the past but also set the stage for a more harmonious and prosperous future for everyone.

Register now! https://www.abchamber.ca/event/embracing-culture-honoring-treaties-building-a-better-future-together/

FASD workers get a pay bump

Almost $3 million is being provided to increase wages for front-line workers supporting individuals with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). This funding raises average wages by approximately 10 per cent.

Learn more

Progress on the Canadian Dental Care Plan

An Early Work Agreement worth up to $15 million has been awarded to Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada (Sun Life). This interim measure will enable Sun Life to undertake necessary pre-contractual work to ensure the timely launch and successful operation of the Canadian Dental Care Plan while details of the main contract are finalized.

Learn more

Why Employees Choose Work Over Wellness: The Links Between Absence Policies, Attendance, and Mental Health

The interaction between absenteeism, presenteeism, and employee mental health in the workplace is complex. By delving into the factors at play in employee attendance across Canada, organizations can be equipped to improve employee mental health, engagement, and retention through strategies, policies, and practices. 

Access research

The Stars of Alberta Volunteer Awards

If you know someone who selflessly gives to a non-profit, nominate them for a Stars of Alberta Volunteer Award. 

Categories include Youth, Adult, Senior and Breaking Barriers - The deadline to nominate is September 15



Learn more

Grow your health career in northern Alberta

This unique bursary opportunity offered in partnership with AHS and the Northern Alberta Development Council (NADC) allows you the chance to not only fund your education, but also experience the fantastic lifestyle that Northern Alberta has to offer.

Northern Alberta covers a large area of wildly varied landscape: sweeping prairies, dense forests, and picturesque lake country are just some of the sights to see. Discover an outdoor playground just steps from your door, meet new people, or return to your hometown to make a difference in the community you love.

Grow your career in Northern Alberta and see the places it can take you. You will gain exposure to a wider range of conditions within your scope of practice, and you’ll be encouraged to learn as you go. A lower cost of living helps you enjoy a higher quality of life as you launch your career in health care. Apply by September 29, 2023. To learn more, click here.

Business Registration Basics

Learn how to navigate the Alberta business registration process confidently. Dive into a dynamic 90-minute webinar led by our Education Coordinator, Linda Griffioen, on September 19 from 10:30am-12pm. Explore business entities, CRA insights, naming nuances, tradenames, trademarks, and more. Master the registration process and enroll today.

Register Now

Increase Website Traffic

Is your digital content finding the right audience? Discover the art of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) in our latest blog. Dive into the mechanics of search engines, explore keyword strategies, enhance user experience, and embrace mobile optimization. Improve your website's visibility, growth, and impact today.

Read Now

FREE Digital Assessment for YOUR Business!

Thrive online with our Digital Service Squad! We've served over 200 businesses in the Grande Prairie area!

Unlock Small Business Success with Digital Advertising

Ready to take your small business to new heights? Join our exclusive webinar and embark on a journey to digital advertising mastery!

• Discover Your Target Market: Learn the secrets of pinpointing your ideal customers and creating powerful personas. Understand who they are, what they want, and how to reach them effectively.

• Craft Engaging Copy: Master the art of persuasive ad copy that captures attention and drives action. We'll share proven techniques to make your message resonate with your audience.

• Maximize Meta Ads Manager: Navigate the intricacies of the Meta Ads Manager like a pro. From ad creation to optimization, we'll walk you through every step to ensure your campaigns shine.

• Exclusive Meta Business Account Insights: To get the most out of this webinar, we recommend having a Meta Business Account set up. Our experts will demonstrate how to leverage this platform for maximum impact.

Don't miss this opportunity to revolutionize your digital advertising strategy! Whether you're a small business owner or a marketer, this webinar is your gateway to driving results and growth.

Date: Monday, September 25th

Time: 12:00pm-1:00pm

Location: Zoom - Register now to secure your spot!

Register Now

Join us for a transformative webinar that will empower you to create and execute digital ad campaigns that deliver real results. Your business deserves the spotlight—let's make it happen together!

How To Analyze Data For Your Business - 

E-commerce Analytics

Of all the available tactics to grow a business, ecommerce analytics is taking the lead. Ecommerce analytics is the process of discovering, interpreting, and communicating data patterns related to online business. Ecommerce analytics helps measure customer behavior, performance trends, and ROI.

This guide will get you comfortable with the language of analytics and help you start tracking the right ecommerce metrics. That way, you can understand customers’ actions, better serve them, and increase sales. 

Visit the Guide

Help defend your business against cyberattacks

Small businesses are the backbone of economic growth in Canada. Their needs have not changed during the pandemic, but have grown more acute. With cyberattacks on the rise, small businesses are a huge target. 67% of small businesses have experienced a cyberattack, and COVID-19 appears to have intensified this problem with the FBI reporting that cybercrime has quadrupled during the pandemic.

Cybersecurity is an afterthought for many small businesses. Many do not have the resources of larger organizations to defend themselves and act once breached. And it’s often difficult to recognize that improving the cybersecurity of one’s business by assessing risk and reducing the need for unnecessary friction is within reach.

Our goal is to change that. This is why we created the Mastercard Trust Centre to help small businesses defend their most important assets – their business and their reputation – through free online access to trusted cybersecurity research, education, resources and tools.

Visit the Mastercard Trust Centre today

Business Performance Benchmarking Tool: How Does your Business Measure Up?

How’s your business doing? Do you think you measure up with respect to others in your industry? Take three minutes - that’s all it takes - to find out how efficient and competitive you are thanks to BDC’s free business performance benchmarking tool.

You can also request a free, detailed report on how to improve your performance and set your business up for continued success.

Try the Tool

Are you a Small Business Owner? We Want to Hear from You!

Small Business Week (October 15 to 21) is a week celebrating the small businesses that fuel Canada’s economy.

DYK - As of 2021 data, there were 1.21 million employer businesses in Canada. Of these, 1.19 million (97.9%) were small businesses.

If you are a small business, we want to pick your brain and find out what advice you would share with other SMEs. We want to hear from business owners who have either been at the game for a long time or are new to game. What is your advice and what have you learned over your entrepreneurial journey? During Small Business Week, we’ll share your insights!

Have insights? We’d love to hear from you! We’ve created a brief survey form for you to fill out to share any tips and advice that could help other entrepreneurs. Please share your thoughts now!

Develop a Sustainability Roadmap for your Small Business.

Human capital, human rights, climate change – these considerations are essential to business success and there is a growing need to view these issues differently.

Our SME Institute’s partner Goodman Sustainability Group offers a range of services and knowledge to enable SMEs to succeed in developing their own Sustainability Roadmap.

Through Goodman Sustainability Group you can receive help for benchmarking, impact assessments and SME corporate purpose and more.

Explore Now

Funding Available for Small Businesses and Individuals to Help Train Apprentices.

The Native Women’s Association of Canada’s National Apprenticeship Program (NAP) is designed to connect Indigenous women, Two-Spirit, transgender, and gender-diverse people with small and medium-sized businesses to build skills and explore new career opportunities. It is designed to help individuals kick-start their career while gaining experience in some of Canada’s most in-demand fields.

The program offers funds to small businesses that are willing and able to train and hire first-year Indigenous woman apprentices in up to 39 specific trades.

Information is available for both businesses and individuals looking to explore this opportunity. Or you can be touch with Chesline Pierre-Paul (they/she).

Learn More

The Business of Business: Supporting Small Business with TD’s Tara-Lynn Hughes

Despite Canada's strong entrepreneurial spirit, SMEs face immense challenges that are unique and unlike those large businesses face. In this latest Business of Business video, our President and CEO Perrin Beatty sits down with Tara-Lynn Hughes, Senior Vice President of Retail Banking at TD as they look at the challenges that small businesses face and how they can best be supported.

Canada Small Business Financing Program: Helping Your Small Business Start or Grow

The Canada Small Business Financing Program makes it easier for small businesses to get loans from financial institutions by sharing the risk with lenders. 

Recent changes to the program provide lenders and small businesses with additional financing products, new class of loans, increased loan amounts and terms, improved loan conditions and decreased administrative burden. 

Learn More

Receive Support, Advice and Tools for Your Small Business in Your Inbox

Gain access to our SME Institute’s top picks for resources and hear about any updates or offers we have by signing up for our SME Institute Insider newsletter. 

Sign Up