We are experiencing another beautiful week outside, with continued uncertainty “inside”, uncertainty in our businesses and in our minds, as we work to cope with the changing world that is facing us. I feel reassured to think of the many individuals, organizations and agencies that are working hard to create supports and programs to see us through these times.
Over the past weeks, regional economic development organizations have conducted one-on-one interviews with hundreds of Shuswap businesses.  Some of you may have participated in this process. Following is a list of challenges identified:
  • Access to valid, high-value information including but not limited to:
  • Directives from government agencies
  • Local, Provincial, Federal and corporate business support programs
  • Business continuity planning, specifically: financial management, human resources, and supply chains, among many more
  • Business industry-specific reports and insights
  • Access to support finalizing program eligibility and required application processes.
  • Access to workforce. This need has been expressed primarily by those businesses deemed an essential service, such as health care, agriculture, and grocery.
  • Access to bridge/emergency cash flow.
  • Support to transition to digital sales. This need relates primarily to retail and tourism businesses, now required to connect with their customers in new ways.
Thank you to Lana Fitt, Manager for the Salmon Arm Economic Development Society, for compiling this list and sharing it with our network. If these themes resonate with you, I recommend reaching out to our Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR), Caroline Grover, to discuss how you can receive assistance in addressing these challenges in your business. Join our webinar on Friday at 11:00 am, featuring Caroline Grover. Caroline will be presenting “Helpline for your Business”. Learn how to access the many services and supports being offered to business owners at this time. Also you can access services through the BC Business CoVid-19 Support Service and their business hot line at 1-833-254-4357.
Kathleen Seeley’s webinar last week was a powerful experience. Kathleen encouraged us to identify our mindset, which, by the way, is not a “terminal diagnosis”, and it can be changed! And she helped us to see the power in aligning our values and our goals. One quote, in particular, has stayed with me this week: “You can find order in the chaos if you sit still long enough”. To access a replay of Kathleen’s presentation “How to Get What You REALLY Want and Keep It”, go to the Events page on www.tsutsweye.ca.
We were also privileged to have Laura Cooke present to us last week. A quote from Laura that I think reflects the tone of the workshop: “Act to serve others when you feel you have something to give and turn kindness inward to practice gratitude and self-care on the days you don’t”. Thank you, Laura, for an excellent Day 1 of your two-day “Dare to Lead and Success Principles” workshop, which continues next Saturday morning.
Watch this newsletter for some exciting announcements of upcoming webinars in May and June. We are in the process of finalizing some excellent presenters and will share with you shortly!
A reminder that there are many opportunities for connection with other female business owners. Please join the Tsuts’weye Facebook Page, sign up for a webinar or register for peer mentoring, to name a few.
Thank you for your many supportive messages and I wish you all a successful week!
#Tsutsweyestrong
Carmen Massey
Project Manager, Tsuts’weye Enterprise and Innovation Network
Cell: 250-804-3466

 

 

 

We will get through this – we can provide support to assist you.

A new opportunity for businesses if you are considering updating your business model to meet the new requirements when we move into recovery is available from the Federal Government. This may include building a new website, moving your business to on line marketing and sales campaigns. The Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) will provide interest-free loans of up to $40,000 to small businesses and not-for-profits, to help cover their operating costs during a period where their revenues have been temporarily reduced. More information on this program can be accessed here.

The Student Work Placement Program gives post-secondary students across Canada paid work experience related to their field of study. Consider hiring a student including Co-op, Interns or Post-secondary and access a wage subsidy program. This applies to business and non-profits. For more information on this program go to the Student Work Placement Program.
Tsuts’weye Women’s Entrepreneur & Innovation Network can provide services to your business, whether you are a new business, or have been in business many years. These services are provided free of charge, thanks to the financial support of Community Futures Shuswap and Western Economic Diversification.
To access these services please contact Caroline Grover, our Entrepreneur in Residence. Please email Caroline at [email protected] or call her directly at 250-300-4757.

For more information about this program go to the Tsuts’weye website.

Okanagan College Professional Development Courses

Please see the attached flyer for the upcoming free business webinars and courses starting this Wednesday April 22. All information and registration can be found at the follow link: Professional Development Resources.

An Introduction to COVID-19 Small Business Strategy
Type: Webinar
Date: April 22, 10 – 11 a.m.
Duration: 1 hour

Working and Managing a Workforce Remotely
Type: Webinar
Date: April 23, 10 – 11 a.m.
Duration: 1 hour

Small Business Strategy During Times of Crisis (Self-paced course)
Type: Course
Date: April 27 – May 8
Duration: 2 weeks (9 hours equivalent, at your own pace)

COVID-19 Supports for Women Entrepreneurs