Being your own boss takes vision and determination, but the rewards can far outweigh the risks. In their ongoing commitment to building a better future for business in Vancouver Island First Nation communities, NEDC is ramping up for another installment of its Business Entrepreneurial Skills and Training program (BEST).
BEST is a free training series that helps nurture the entrepreneurial spirit of people, communities and organizations throughout B.C. Participants have the opportunity to meet guest speakers, identify viable business ideas, determine their feasibility, learn about market strategy and e-business, and take proven steps to start or grow their own business. Along the way they will also learn how to write business plans and conduct market research, as well as the ins and outs of exploring finance options.
“The learning is fun and interactive,” says NEDC Business Services Officer Jennifer Gallic. “We do our best to support each individual through the business planning process or their business ideas.”
Gallic says the BEST program also includes business coaching and ongoing mentorship.
More than 2,500 people from 100 B.C. communities have benefited from Aboriginal BEST since its inception 10 years ago.
BEST will be offered in Campbell River on the Wei Wai Kum Learning Centre Feb. 13 to March 1. To be eligible for BEST, applicants must be:
A) unemployed (or work less than 20 hours per week), not on E.I.
or any one of the following:
B) self-identify as Aboriginal (First Nations, Metis, or Inuit) or disabled or be a youth (aged 15-19).
For more information on the BEST program see www.nedc.info/best or contact Serena Read, serena@nedc.info