A guide for all business
The business world can be a lonely place for new entrepreneurs looking to make their mark.
A Red Deer business woman is hoping to help.
Brenda Kolasa has launched an online directory and guide called Success 4 Business.
She is populating it with contacts from a variety of sectors and professions: financial, legal, marketing, accounting, educational, municipal services and others.
A “Solutions” page on the site provides information on topics from the mechanics of starting a business and obtaining financing, to hiring staff and marketing products and services.
“It’s an information and business directory,” said Kolasa, who has included a calendar of business events, such as courses offered through Community Futures.
“It’s information that any business could benefit from.”
She’s also organizing a Success 4 Business Expo, which will be geared to new and aspiring business owners and executives.
Scheduled for Sept. 26 at the Westerner Park Harvest Centre, the expo will feature educational seminars on topics like preparing a business plan, marketing and IT development.
Attendees will also be able to meet and network with industry experts like lawyers, accountants, lenders, government agencies and economic development organizations.
“Anyone who helps to make businesses successful, that’s who I’m targeting,” she said of the exhibitors she’s seeking.
Registrants will even have the opportunity to give a two-minute presentation about their businesses during a wrap-up party.
“It’ll be good practice for them,” said Kolasa.
With 20 years in business and membership in the Red Deer Chamber of Commerce, a local Rotary club and the Red Deer Leads Executive Association, Kolasa has seen many people struggle to start and grow their business. Resources exist, she said, but often it’s difficult to know where or how to access these.
“I know there’s a need out there,” she said, describing her Success 4 Business initiatives as one-stop destinations for help.
Information about both can be found online at www.success4business.ca or by calling Kolasa at 403-348-0120. Registration is required to take part in the expo, with early bird fees ranging from $20 to $90, depending on how much of the event is being attended.
hrichards@reddeeradvocate.com
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