CanadianSME Small Business Magazine - August 2024 Edition
Dear Readers,
It is with immense pleasure that we present the August issue of the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. This month, our special focus is on Business Growth Development for SMEs and Young Entrepreneurship. We delve into the strategies and innovations that are shaping the future of small businesses in Canada, offering a wealth of insights designed to inspire and empower.
In alignment with this focus, we’ve curated a diverse range of content that also highlights the integral role of technology in today’s business landscape. Whether you’re interested in export development or looking to leverage AIdriven sales strategies, there’s something in this issue for everyone.
Our feature articles include "From Overload to Insight: AI-Driven Sales Strategies for Teams Using Microsoft 365," by Mike Curliss, VP Sales at Maximizer, and "Unplugging for Success: 5 Tips to Help Business Owners Take Time Off, by RBC." We also explore the philosophical concept of perception in business with "The Authority Principle: 'There is no truth. There is only perception.' – Gustave Flaubert," authored by Ben Wise & Darren Chiu, CoFounders of Captivate., and many more!
But that’s not all—our interviews this month are equally compelling. We bring you Fatima Zaidi’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, strategies for deepfake detection and mitigation from Mo Dhaliwal, and insights into empowering health decisions from Dr. Jennie Christensen. Also, don't miss our spotlight feature: Business Woman of the Month. This time, we celebrate Robyn Orsini, CEO & Founder of Lunas Consulting, whose passion for helping startups thrive is backed by over thirteen years of experience.
Looking ahead, we are thrilled to announce the upcoming fifth edition of the CanadianSME Small Business Summit 2024, scheduled for October 24th. Themed "Fueling Canadian SMBs with Digital Transformation, Inclusion, and Adaptability," this year’s summit promises to be exceptional, with Amazon Business returning as our presenting partner. For more information and to register, visit www.smesummit.ca.
Additionally, we are pleased to announce that nominations for the sixth CanadianSME National Business Awards 2024 are now open. Please visit smeawards.ca to apply for the category that best suits your services and capabilities.
As we conclude, I extend heartfelt thanks to you, our dedicated readers, for your continuous support and active engagement. Your enthusiasm is the cornerstone of our mission to deliver enlightening, challenging, and celebratory content about Canadian entrepreneurship. Dive into this issue, engage with our offerings, and subscribe at www.canadiansme.ca for more empowering stories.
Here’s to a month filled with new beginnings, resilience, and limitless possibilities.
Warmest Regards,
SK, Editor-in-Chief, CanadianSME Small Business Magazine
Building a Resilient Business: Fatima Zaidi's Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Unplugging for Success: 5 Tips to Help Business Owners Take Time Off
24 56 69 21
Business Woman of the Month Robyn Orsini
Pascale Mapleston's Vision for Inclusive Employee Benefits
Deepfake Detection and Mitigation: Strategies from Mo Dhaliwal
INTHISISSUE
Canvass AI: Advancing Industrial Efficiency through Artificial Intelligence Solutions
Diana Virgovicova: Pioneering a Cleaner Future
Transforming Accessibility with ImaginAble Solutions: Lianna Genovese
The Road to Expansion: Key Growth Tactics for Canadian SMEs
Empowering Health Decisions: Insights from Dr. Jennie Christensen
ByDianeAmato
As a business owner, you know time off can be hard to come by. Still, taking time for yourself can be vital to your health, personal relationships and business
Why you need a vacation as a business owner
Need a vacation? The answer is likely “ yes. ” While the idea of taking a vacation this summer might sound nice, it may actually be essential According to recent research conducted by BDC, the mental health of entrepreneurs has been declining over the past three years In fact, in their latest survey, BDC found that 45% of Canadian business owners reported mental health challenges, citing inflation and work-life balance as the primary sources of stress
Stepping away from your business, even temporarily can help you rest and recharge After all, it’s better to take time away now than to find yourself physically or mentally unwell and be forced to take time off
Tips for taking time off as a business owner
When youre running your business – putting out fires, hustling for opportunities and meeting client needs – it may feel impossible to take a vacation Here are some tips to help you step away:
Start planning early
When you know youll take a vacation, you can make a plan This may mean scheduling client meetings and projects around your days off, ensuring your employees will be available during that period and arranging important shipments and deliveries before or after you ’ re away Notifying your clients well in advance is also key
Schedule activities in advance
Thanks to the many digital tools available, setting up business activities to run while you ’ re away is easy For instance, you can schedule social media messages to post on specific dates and times, manage employee shifts with a digital scheduler, set up future-dated bill payments in your online banking application and automate your payroll
Set your employees up for success
One of the best ways to take time away is to empower your team year-round When your employees have the knowledge and capacity to run your business without consistent oversight, it’s easier for you to step away At the same time, appointing a deputy while you ’ re off can give you extra peace of mind Having one or two people in charge to manage issues – and who can reach you while you ’ re away – can help things run smoothly even if something outof-the-ordinary comes up And it can help you truly unplug for a while
Create and streamline
processes
As you prepare for your time off, it’s a good opportunity to assess your operations Can anything run smoother or with less manual work? Invoicing, employee scheduling, content management, customer communication and other processes might be streamlined by cutting out unnecessary steps, using digital tools or simplifying tasks
The business benefits of taking time away
With distance comes perspective Many business owners share that they gain clarity by stepping back, while others say they’ve come up with new ideas and solutions when outside the mix of dayto-day operations Whether it’s a hike in a spectacular landscape, interactions with people of different cultures or downtime at the beach, when you get out of your routine, your mind can clear and think differently
What’s more, when you step away, you rely on your employees to take care of business By training them to get the job done without you, you may be creating better engagement and a greater sense of accountability – and you ’ re allowing them to come up with ideas for boosting business. And those processes you streamlined before you left? They could save you time throughout the year as your business runs more efficiently
Does your business have a slow season?
If your business is seasonal, maximize your slow season Beyond taking time for yourself, you can use the lull to catch up on tasks you typically don’t get to Here are some ideas:
Boost your online presence: Test new social media tactics, run digital ads, and optimize your website for SEO
Connect and partner with a local organization: Community involvement can improve your reputation and visibility
Focus on your staff: Set up training sessions, learn your team’s strengths and areas for improvement, and do something fun to boost engagement
While many entrepreneurs might consider a vacation a “nice-to-have,” it’s worth considering it an essential part of running a successful business –not to mention being a healthy and productive business owner
This article was originally published on RBC’s My Money Matters blog.
Robyn Orsini is the 29-year-old female CEO & Founder of Lunas Consulting, a B2B Lead Generation and Growth Consulting Agency. Her passion for helping startups succeed is driven by her thirteen years of experience in business development, as well as the time she spent working for non-profit organizations that supported ecosystems of entrepreneurs and tech communities through community support and innovation
Robyn also holds a prominent position as a VP of Operations & Strategy at Mino Games, a renowned gaming company She has partaken in an exciting new challenge spearheading new strategical initiatives within the company Her focus is on the growth and marketing of their new title, "Dimensionals," as well as expanding game franchises across multiple platforms and media for enhanced revenue opportunities. With Mino’s 12-year legacy and an impressive $23 million in funding raised, and approximately 60mm in revenue to date, she brings her expertise and vision to drive innovation and expansion.
Through this same drive and passion, she also recently co-founded another organization, SmartSaaS, an E-learning Sales Expertise company for SaaS startup founders and sales teams that aims to deliver a straightforward roadmap toward success for any startup from pre-revenue to scale through numerous sales & revenue bootcamps, templates, and courses
Robyn believes startup leaders deserve a partner who will invest the time needed to develop and execute go-to-market strategies and educate team members on modern growth processes She believes a transparent approach to every partnership means ensuring that any guarantees are met with action, with no room for empty promises.
Her mission is to ensure that every startup that collaborates with her receives the guidance and training needed to achieve longterm success and revenue growth.
Women empowerment is a consequence of sheer effort and intelligent decisions, supported by a framework promoting gender equality and women ' s entrepreneurship. One woman who’s stood the test of time with her dedication and willpower to make difficult decisions is Robyn Orsini, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Lunas Consulting Inc Due to these achievements, CanadianSME Magazine has recognized her as the Business Woman of the Month for the April issue Lunas Consulting, a global early-stage startup lead generation, marketing and consulting firm, focuses on data-driven decision-making, transparent client relationships, and sustainable revenue growth Lunas supports entrepreneurs' international expansion efforts by emphasizing B2B sales outsourcing, outbound lead generation, sales consulting, and marketing
Visionary Leadership and Achievements
Robyn Orsini has an impressive list of achievements She received recognition for her achievements in the business world, being honoured as the Best Young Female Entrepreneur at the 2022 Stevie Awards - Women in Business and receiving the 2023 Globee Sales, Marketing, Service Operations Awards for Sales Leadership of the Year With her at the helm, Lunas Consulting has achieved remarkable recognition, including the esteemed 2022 Globee Award for WomanOwned Startup of the Year and the 2022 Stevie Awards for Women in Business Startup of the Year
Since its establishment in July 2020, Lunas Consulting has experienced rapid growth, exceeding $1 million in ARR (Annual Recurring Revenue) within its inaugural year Robyn's impressive leadership is demonstrated by her remarkable achievement of growing the team to over 40 highly skilled professionals The noteworthy expansion highlights her exceptional leadership approach and the supportive atmosphere she cultivates at Lunas
Empowering Women in Entrepreneurship
Lunas Consultings success stems from its dedication to diversity and female leadership Robyn Orsini is at the helm of a remarkable leadership team of four other exceptional women The company values its diverse workforce, bringing people from various backgrounds and perspectives. Robyn is committed to fostering inclusivity globally, as Lunas actively seeks out talented individuals worldwide.
Fostering a Culture of Excellence
The success of Lunas Consulting is supported by its fundamental principles: mutual care, the cultivation of trust, the proactive resolution of challenges, and an unwavering commitment to ongoing education These values underpin the inclusive culture of the organization, in which each team member is esteemed and given the authority to achieve their utmost capabilities Lunas is propelled by Robyn's unwavering dedication to excellence, which fosters collaboration, innovation, and client satisfaction
Robyn Orsini's trajectory from entrepreneur to industry pioneer exemplifies perseverance, foresight, and steadfast commitment As the proprietor of Lunas Consulting, she actively promotes diversity, fosters women ' s empowerment, and motivates aspiring leaders. Robyn Orsini's exceptional leadership reorients the discourse surrounding success, demonstrating that inclusivity and empowerment are not mere trendy terms but fundamental pillars of enduring expansion within the business
Click here to learn more about Lunas Consulting’s services and solutions.
The CanadianSME community consists of readers who have high regard for current enterprises and entrepreneurial initiatives Entrepreneurs can remain connected and active with this group by following @canadian sme on X Please click here to subscribe to CanadianSME magazine and stay up to date on all current business trends and developments
MikeCurliss, VPSalesatMaximizer
Microsoft 365 has changed how businesses operate, offering a comprehensive suite of tools for communication, collaboration, and productivity However, realizing its full potential within a sales team can be a challenge With a [30% market share] Microsoft 365 across Outlook, Teams, and other products is a dominant force, and you ’ re likely working within its ecosystem whether you chose it or not For sales leaders, optimizing these tools for your team is crucial, as revenue organizations using Microsoft 365 regularly face vast, disparate data Fortunately, artificial intelligence (AI) can support the shift from operational to strategic initiatives by uncovering valuable market and customer trends, making it a powerful ally in reaching your 2024 revenue goals
Tailoring AI Solutions for Sales Leaders and Reps in Your Company
AI-powered CRM activities can [increase sales productivity by 29%], revealing a huge potential to transform how sales teams operate But what does that potential look like in the field? AI excels at surfacing critical insights and analyzing patterns and trends from data For sales leaders, it can identify high-value opportunities, surface how your team is performing in a unified view, and suggest next actions to keep both your critical deals and team’s performance on track For sales professionals, [AI can provide personalized guidance], to help them ask timely, personalized questions to prospects and clients helping to position them as a trusted expert in their domain
Canadian sales leaders looking to integrate AI can also take advantage of the [Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP) Grow Your Business Online grant] This grant offers up to $2,400 to SMEs to adopt digital technologies, including AI and CRM, to improve business capabilities, customer engagement, and sales
Augmenting Sales with AI for a Human-Centric Touch
Integrating AI functionalities into daily workflows is essential, with the caveat that you cant put customer relationships on autopilot Relationship building is a human capability that cannot be substituted, taking years to build and an automated AI-generated outreach to lose [According to McKinsey] sales professionals spend about 1 4 days of each workweek managing emails To get more selling time back to your team, here are four integrated actions your reps should be able to perform within their Microsoft 365 environment:
Full account view without leaving Outlook
Integrate AI tools with Outlook to view detailed customer profiles, past interactions, and purchase history without switching platforms This ensures informed and personalized communication, with full context of account history
Ability to create deal-specific chats in Microsoft Teams
Chat integration allows sales reps to quickly mobilize with colleagues, share updates, and coordinate strategies to move specific deals forward in one workspace
Suggested actions within Microsoft 365
AI-powered tools analyze email content, highlight key information and provide real-time follow-up suggestions, transforming routine interactions into strategic touchpoints for your reps
Leading Your Team to Better Selling Using Microsoft 365
Sales leaders can significantly enhance their team's Microsoft 365 efficiency with the integration of AI The Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP) is just one way to lead that change, in conjunction with tools like [Maximizer], who serves thousands of companies using Microsoft for their CRM needs
Automated administrative management of Outlook
Your reps should be able to automate routine tasks such as setting reminders and providing summaries of long email chains, leaving more time for relationship-building, personalized outreach
Mike Curliss is the VP of Sales at Maximizer. An enterprising executive with a proven track record of rapid revenue growth, he drives change, fosters a culture of respect and accountability, and champions continuous employee development Mike is committed to innovation in sales and empowers sales professionals to achieve extraordinary results
For any economy to boom and bloom, it is a prerequisite that its businesses, especially small enterprises, expand globally. Hence, theres a rising need for a solid expansion plan. In fact, a well-thought-out strategy is crucial for adjusting to and thriving in the face of economic disturbances This is exactly how businesses can find new possibilities and overcome difficulties with a comprehensive plan Interestingly, out of all the tiny firms in Canada, only 12% actually export anything Those who do, however, see more sales, quicker growth, and more resilience in the face of economic downturns Thanks to the advent of the Internet of Things, exporting also provides exposure on a worldwide scale and entry to markets all over the world With this in mind, we bring you the four most significant reasons for small businesses to start considering expansion
Challenging International Competition
Canada's SMEs must be ready for global competitiveness Foreign enterprises from partner nations are granted privileged access to the Canadian market via reciprocal free trade agreements (FTAs) As such, because of this heightened competition, Canadian companies are increasingly exploring opportunities abroad By expanding into other markets, exporting helps spread out their business risk and makes them less reliant on any one market Small enterprises in Canada can bolster their productivity and position in the face of local market volatility and expand their customer base by competing globally
Capitalizing on Digital Tools
Canadian SMEs now have an easier time exporting because digital technology has transformed how firms work With ecommerce sites and internet marketing, local companies can reach a global audience with little to no initial investment A solid local foundation or even an abroad presence is no longer necessary to access international markets Thanks to the Internet, even the smallest firms may compete with the biggest ones, transforming them into micro-multinationals Today, Canadian SMEs can efficiently expedite their development by using digital solutions to tap into global demand effectively
Gaining Advantage from FTAs
As a matter of fact, Canadian SMEs seeking global expansion have much to gain from the country's vast network of free trade agreements. Over 1.4 billion customers in 50 countries are accessible to Canadian enterprises preferentially, thanks to 14 FTAs that are now in place. Thanks to these pacts, small and medium-sized enterprises in Canada can compete more effectively by accessing more significant markets without having to pay exorbitant tariffs Even more doors will be opened as talks for other free trade agreements (FTAs), including one with China, continue Canadian SMEs can expand significantly beyond the boundaries of the home market by using these agreements
Making the Most of the "Made-in-Canada" Label
Exporters get a competitive edge and have significant worldwide appeal with the "Made-in-Canada" mark Because of its reputation for producing reliable, cuttingedge goods, Canada is often named among the world's most respectable nations What’s more, Canadian small and mediumsized businesses can use this favourable impression to promote their products and services Canadian goods are highly sought after in foreign markets due to the country's reliable and environmentally friendly reputation. As a result of using the "Canadian" brand, SMEs can stand out from the competition and develop a devoted international clientele
Growing their business abroad is a huge opportunity for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Canada Their chances of success will increase if they become ready to compete worldwide, use digital technology, take advantage of free trade agreements, and promote the "Madein-Canada" brand A well-defined and targeted export plan may improve their market reach, resilience, and long-term growth If Canadian SMEs adopt these critical growth strategies, they can become successful businesses on a worldwide scale
All it takes is moving forward one step at a time, which is in line with the plan to scale globally because now is the right time.
CanadianSME Magazine is a valuable treasure trove of entrepreneurial knowledge Click here to subscribe to our monthly editions for updates on Canadian businesses Follow our handle @canadian sme on X to remain updated on all business trends and developments
"Thereisnotruth.Thereisonlyperception."-
GustaveFlaubert
Ben Wise & Darren Chiu
Co-FoundersofCaptivate (Authors)
Have you ever wondered why a doctor's white coat holds such sway? Or why a book review from The New York Times can catapult a novel to bestseller status? This isn't mere happenstance It's a testament to the deep-seated authority bias hardwired into our cognitive machinery
Humans, as a species, are remarkably efficient at navigating the complexities of the world To avoid cognitive overload, we rely on mental shortcuts, or heuristics, that allow us to make quick judgments and decisions with minimal effort The authority principle is one such shortcut, a deeply ingrained tendency to defer to those we perceive as experts or leaders
The Science of Influence
From an evolutionary perspective, this bias makes perfect sense In our ancestral environment, heeding the advice of experienced elders or tribal leaders often meant the difference between survival and extinction. This instinctual deference to authority persists in modern times, shaping our perceptions and influencing our choices.
Authority in the Business Arena
In the realm of business, this bias can be a potent tool for persuasion When we associate a product, service, or idea with a figure of authority a renowned scientist, an industry titan, a trusted institution its perceived value skyrockets It's not just about the
information they convey; it's the implicit endorsement their status confers. If you look around, you will quickly recognize this technique in use almost everywhere - the bottle of wine that showcases a recent award, a startup pitch deck with a list of big name advisors, or the framed degrees adorning the walls of any lawyer’s office
This Month's Challenge: Building Your Authority
This month, take on the challenge of bolstering your authority and credibility. Here are three things you can put into practice right away:
1. Identify Your Expertise: Pinpoint your areas of expertise and the unique value you bring to your industry or niche
In the realm of business, this bias can be a potent tool for persuasion When we associate a product, service, or idea with a figure of authority a renowned scientist, an industry titan, a trusted institution its perceived value skyrockets. It's not just about the information they convey; it's the implicit endorsement their status confers If you look around, you will quickly recognize this technique in use almost everywhere - the bottle of wine that showcases a recent award, a startup pitch deck with a list of big name advisors, or the framed degrees adorning the walls of any lawyer’s office
Here are three practical ways to harness the authority principle to your advantage:
Leverage Expert Endorsements: Secure testimonials or reviews from recognized experts in your field Display these prominently on your website, marketing materials, or social media channels Think of the skincare cream that is endorsed by a dermatologist with perfect skin, or the toothpaste brand that is preferred by 4 out of 5 dentists.
Showcase Industry Awards and Certifications: Highlight any awards, certifications, or accreditations your company has received This demonstrates recognition from respected institutions and signals to potential customers that your products or services meet high standards
Partner with Thought Leaders: Collaborate with influential figures in your industry to co-create content, webinars, or events. Their association with your brand will lend it credibility and reach a wider audience. For instance, a fitness company might partner with a wellknown personal trainer to develop workout programs.
2. Share Your Knowledge: Create content that showcases your expertise. Write blog posts, articles, or whitepapers, participate in online forums, or host webinars.
3. Build Relationships: Connect with other experts and influencers in your field. Network at industry events, engage on social media, or collaborate on projects.
Want to
Learn More?
Check out these great resources:
Two of our favourite authors of all time were key voices on the topic of Authority Check out:
Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert Cialdini and How the Mind Works by Steven Pinker
For a quick overview (and a funny cartoon), have a look at this article from The Decision Lab.
About Authors
Ben Wise and Darren Chiu are the founders of Captivate, providing tools and techniques to increase your powers of persuasion They are sought after speakers on the psychology of persuasion and have appeared at industry events, conferences and corporate training programs To book them for an engagement, please reach out via LinkedIn
In a compelling discussion with CanadianSME Small Business Magazine, Mike Curliss, Vice President of Sales at Maximizer, shared his journey in sales leadership and the transformative impact of CRM systems. Reflecting on a pivotal experience at Sony, Mike described how the absence of a centralized CRM led to difficulties in retaining a high-performing account manager, prompting him to seek better solutions. This journey ultimately led him to Maximizer, a CRM platform that centralized sales data and streamlined processes Highlighting Maximizer's new Outlook integration, Mike explained how this feature empowers users to manage CRM tasks directly from their inbox, enhancing efficiency and insight He also discussed the evolving role of Sales VPs, underscoring the importance of technological savvy, data-driven decision-making, and the strategic use of AI to complement human interactions in sales.
Mike Curliss has 20 years of Sales Leadership experience including Sony, Ericsson, Two Hat Security, and Vadim Software. He is currently Vice President of Sales at Maximizer, supporting other Sales VPs through CRM.
During my time as Director of Sales at Sony, I faced a tough situation with a standout account manager whose contract renewal was coming up He was an exceptional performer, but I lacked visibility into his activities and deals because we didn't have a CRM everything was scattered across individual systems and spreadsheets. To retain him, I had to offer a larger increase than budgeted, simply because I didn't have the data to back up a counteroffer. This incident pushed me to find a better solution and funny enough the solution was Maximizer. Once implemented, we could centralize all sales information and link it to our procurement system. This not only gave me the insights I needed but also ensured that critical customer information remained within the company, preventing future challenges if a sales rep decided to leave This early experience with Maximizer made a lasting impression, and when the opportunity arose to join their team years later, I jumped at it
Maximizer is proud to announce the launch of its new Outlook integration, a significant advancement that will help companies facing Microsoft's phase-out of the Outlook COM add-in. This new feature allows users to manage their CRM contacts, leads, tasks, and appointments directly from their Outlook inbox, providing comprehensive insights into customer relationships. This innovation firmly positions Maximizer as a go-to CRM for Microsoft 365 users, particularly benefiting small businesses. Combined with integrations with Outlook, Teams, and Power BI, sales leaders operating within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem are fully equipped to manage their teams efficiently and optimize business operations
ImageCourtesy:Maximizer
How has the role of VP Sales at small and medium businesses in Canada evolved since 2019?
Over the past five years, the role of VP of Sales at small and medium businesses in Canada has transformed significantly The integration of advanced technology and a sophisticated tech stack has become crucial, providing vast amounts of data that VPs must analyze and interpret Sales and marketing are now more closely aligned, with both teams heavily relying on technology to optimize spending and the sales funnel Social selling has surged, challenging VPs to stand out in a crowded market where everyone is vying for attention Additionally, the rapid adoption of AI has become a game-changer, enhancing but not replacing the sales process and human interactions. Lastly, the pandemic led to a decline in in-person events, and despite some recovery, these events havent returned to pre-pandemic levels It’s a completely different playing field these days
What new competencies and skills do you believe are essential for a Sales VP to effectively lead in today's market?
A Sales VP must master a blend of new and traditional skills A deep understanding of technology and the ability to analyze data are crucial, along with expertise in navigating and using CRM so you always: know your critical deals, know your team performance, and have the insights on next steps for your team It’s that continuous tug of war between Sales Management and Sales Leadership Despite the tech focus, traditional leadership skills remain vital coaching, managing, and training the team are as important as ever Alignment with o ensure cohesive strategies Ultimately, ese technological advancements with strategies to stand out in a crowded
pecific ways in which AI can help Sales onnections and interactions, rather
connections and interactions in sales e and mundane tasks, allowing sales building relationships Currently, sales ays of each workweek managing emails n to and transcribe conversations, and outline next steps This frees up time e more deeply with clients Additionally, can help reps be better prepared for relevant
How do you see the role of AI for Sales VPs differing from general AI applications in sales, and what unique benefits does it offer?
information and insights. At Maximizer, we share the belief with many providers of the critical need for trust with AI. Where we differ is in thinking that you can't put customer relationships on autopilot: relationship building is a human capability that cannot be substituted While AI can draft emails and predict sales outcomes, the essence of trust and personal connection remains irreplaceable People buy from people they trust, and AI helps ensure that sales reps have more time and resources to build and maintain those crucial relationships
While general AI applications might focus on automating routine tasks for sales reps, for Sales VPs, AI provides deeper insights and predictive analytics that inform decision-making AI can analyze and predict sales funnels, pipelines, and outcomes, offering a level of insight that was previously hard to achieve due to data complexity and disparity For smaller businesses, AI helps optimize operations by automating administrative tasks, whereas in larger organizations, AI can reveal critical insights from big data This tailored approach helps Sales VPs optimize their strategies, ensuring they can lead their teams effectively with data-driven decisions
With the ongoing advancements in AI technology, how do you foresee the role of Sales VPs continuing to evolve in the near future?
Sales VPs will continue to adapt with the increasing use cases identified for AI technology At Maximizer, we believe as more AI tools become available, Sales VPs will need to stay ahead of the curve by integrating these tools into their sales processes appropriately This includes using AI for lead identification, communication, coaching, sales insights, and reducing administrative tasks The key will be to leverage AI to help without compromising the human element of sales VPs must understand where AI fits best within their processes to maximize benefits and avoid potential pitfalls As technology evolves, so will the strategies and skills required of Sales VPs, making continuous learning and adaptation essential components of the role
Introduction
What if your texts write themselves, perfectly tailored to each customer, and sent at the precise moment for maximum impact which is possible by AI SMS automation, and it’s rapidly transforming how businesses operate across every industry
AI SMS automation technology is more than just sending automated reminders in which AI personalizes the SMS experience, boosting engagement and driving results From targeted marketing campaigns to seamless customer service, AI SMS automation provides a new level of efficiency and connection for business operations Get ready to see a dramatic shift in how you interact with your customers – and watch your business soar to new heights
Engaging your customers like never before
In business, capturing customer attention is a constant battle where AI SMS automation steps in as your secret weapon By personalizing interactions, AI turns one-size-fits-all blasts into targeted conversations and Increases engagement
Imagine this: A customer browses your website for a specific type of shoe Later, they receive a text offering a discount on similar styles they might love This kind of targeted messaging, powered by AI analysis of browsing behavior, feels relevant and sparks interest
Here are some more ways AI personalizes the SMS experience:
Birthday greetings with special offers: AI remembers birthdays and sends personalized messages with exclusive discounts, making customers feel valued
Post-purchase follow-ups tailored to specific products: AIpowered text after buying a new camera could offer helpful tips or related accessory recommendations.
Automated responses based on sentiment analysis: If a customer’s message expresses frustration, AI can trigger a quick apology and offer assistance, demonstrating responsiveness and care.
Improving operational efficiency
Let’s face it, every business has a million tasks to juggle AI SMS automation steps in as your timesaving mechanism, streamlining processes and freeing up your team to focus on what truly matters: strategic initiatives and exceptional customer service
Picture this: Your customer support team is swamped with repetitive inquiries about order tracking AI takes over! An AI-powered SMS bot can handle basic tracking requests, instantly providing customers with updates and reducing the workload for your team which frees up your agents to tackle complex issues and deliver personalized support for customers who need it most
Facilitating seamless communication
In a business environment, smooth communication is very crucial for success AI SMS automation bridges the gap, fostering real-time communication between teams and customers, and creating a seamless and responsive network
Here are some additional efficiency gains powered by AI SMS automation:
Automated appointment reminders: Say goodbye to missed appointments! AI can send automatic reminders via SMS, ensuring a smoother workflow and happier customers
Inventory alerts: Never get caught off guard by low stock again. AI can monitor inventory levels and trigger automated SMS alerts to initiate reordering before you run out.
Streamlined post-purchase communication:
Automated SMS updates on order confirmation, shipping status, and delivery notifications keep customers informed and reduce the need for manual communication.
Visualize this: A critical issue arises during a product launch AI can instantly notify relevant teams via SMS, allowing them to collaborate and resolve the situation quickly so that real-time communication ensures a smooth launch and minimizes disruption
Here's how AI SMS automation streamlines communication:
Automated team updates: AI can trigger SMS alerts when specific events occur, keeping all teams informed and on the same page. For example, a sales team might receive instant SMS notifications about new leads, allowing them to follow up swiftly.
Two-way customer communication: AI-powered chatbots can handle basic customer inquiries via SMS, providing immediate answers and resolving simple issues that reduces hold times and frustration for customers, fostering a more positive experience
Real-time order and service updates: Customers receive instant SMS confirmations and updates on orders, service requests, or deliveries, creating transparency and building trust.
Increasing sales and revenue
The ultimate goal of any business is to drive sales and revenue growth AI SMS automation isn't just about efficiency and engagement – it's a powerful tool for supercharging your sales funnel
Here's the secret behind that: Targeted SMS campaigns, powered by AI's magic touch, can window shoppers into loyal customers
Here are some ways AI SMS automation fuels sales growth:
AI-powered product recommendations: Based on past purchases and browsing behavior, AI suggests relevant products via SMS, enticing customers to explore further and potentially spend more.
Upselling and cross-selling opportunities: AI identifies upselling and cross-selling opportunities, sending targeted SMS campaigns that promote complementary products or services, increasing average order value.
Abandoned cart recovery: AI can send automated SMS reminders to customers who leave items in their carts, nudging them to complete their purchase and reducing abandoned sales
Creating happy & satisfied customers (and keeping them that way)
For any business, happy customers are your most valuable asset AI SMS automation goes beyond just driving sales; it's about creating exceptional customer experiences that foster loyalty and brand advocacy
Consider this: A customer receives a text message shortly after their purchase, asking for feedback on their experience This quick and easy way to share their thoughts shows you care, fostering a positive connection.
Timely and relevant communication: SMS allows you to reach customers directly with updates, promotions, or support exactly when they need it. This personalized approach demonstrates responsiveness and builds trust.
Automated feedback collection: AI can trigger post-interaction SMS surveys, gathering valuable customer feedback in real-time This allows you to identify areas for improvement and continuously enhance your offerings
Proactive support: AI can analyze customer interactions and identify potential issues Proactive SMS outreach can address these concerns before they escalate, demonstrating care and preventing frustration
Here's how AI SMS automation elevates the customer experience:
ImageCourtesy:Canva
User consent is key: Building trust starts with transparency Always obtain explicit consent from customers before sending them SMS messages that demonstrates respect for their privacy and reduces the risk of complaints
Conclusion
Whether you ' re a small startup or a large enterprise, Using AI SMS automation, you ' re investing in a transformative tool that sets your business on the path to success. Don't wait – explore the possibilities of AI SMS automation today and gain a powerful competitive advantage
Ensuring data security and compliance
We understand that data security and regulatory compliance are top priorities for any business While AI SMS automation offers incredible benefits, it's crucial to ensure you ' re handling customer data responsibly and adhering to relevant regulations
Rest assured, there are robust strategies and technologies in place to put your mind at ease
Secure data storage: Your chosen SMS automation platform should implement industry-standard security protocols to safeguard customer data This includes encryption at rest and in transit, access controls, and regular security audits
Compliance with regulations: Different regions have varying regulations regarding SMS marketing and data privacy A reputable SMS automation provider will stay up-to-date on these regulations and ensure their platform adheres to them which includes features like clear opt-in and opt-out mechanisms, as well as data retention policies that comply with regulations like GDPR and CCPA.
About the Author
Philip Portman is the Founder/CEO of Textdrip, a business texting platform for Solar, Travel & Tourism, E-Commerce, Insurance, Hotels & Hospitality, Car Dealerships, Real Estate, and Healthcare He has created several startups from the ground up like; landlineremover com, argosautomation com, and recruitdrip com He is a leading expert in SMS marketing and automation in digital marketing
Better Than A Bot Inc. is a women-owned and run corporation that helps professionals regain control and independence to do just about anything they want and, most importantly, the way they deem right! Its owner and founder, Shayla (also known as The Chaos Coordinator), aims to empower professional women and working moms to realize their full potential by providing them with an elevated virtual assistant experience that includes accountability coaching they need to follow their dreams and achieve personal fulfillment Shayla believes that women deserve to have thriving lives that aren’t built on chaos and hustle but on personalized processes and time-efficient systems so that they spend time doing the things they actually love doing This article is dedicated to Shayla’s exquisite sense of business leadership and resilience, which she uses to help other women gain a business launchpad
Shayla’s plan to continue growing professionally in the corporate world suddenly changed after 15 years of dedicated service She was left feeling disappointed, undervalued, and unappreciated as she realized that there was little room to grow Knowing that her gifts and skills would be of service and value to someone ' s business and help them thrive professionally and personally, it was time for Shayla to follow her passion to support professional women and working moms crush their goals and follow their dreams On April 21, 2022, Better Than A Bot was born to help Canadian women coordinate the chaos in their lives so that they never miss another milestone and have time to pursue their passions
“Since partnering together, my clients have been able to plan vacations, attend their kid’s events more regularly, follow up on business opportunities, be more present outside of work, and have simpler and more peaceful everyday lives " - Shayla Moulton, Founder of Better Than A Bot Inc.
How Better Than A Bot was born.
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Partnering with Better Than A Bot can turn your organizational catastrophe into a tidy paradise.
As a matter of fact, Better Than A Bot provides digital organization, document decluttering, and personal assistant support What’s even more incredible is that these services are not just about organization and productivity, but about building trusting and honest relationships Shayla works one-on-one with clients and offers personalized support so that they feel incredibly accomplished while managing what’s most important in their lives Shayla’s approach is centred on creating time-efficient systems allowing clients to step back and not get lost in the chaos
don’t keep the methods to staying organized to myself and am transparent in my systems so that clients have access to all the tools that work " - Shayla Moulton, founder of Better Than A Bot Inc.
It is no secret that most professional women and working moms often juggle between work and balancing different sets of responsibilities - including business obligations, children's activities, family time, and personal endeavours Shayla takes a different approach than most virtual assistants out there She understands the perpetual struggle of attempting to oversee everything And this is where she intervenes to help with tasks frequently neglected due to a lack of time Better Than A Bot is capable of handling a variety of functions, including paper and digital organizing filing systems, calendar and email management, scheduling appointments, planning events, and a variety of personal tasks
What’s more, Shayla's services also include organizing children’s school memory box mementos, coordinating the conversion of old VHS recordings into digital masterpieces, the organization of digital and physical photographs, and organizing, designing and ordering art books for special projects Her objective is simple: to offer clients the opportunity to rediscover their passions, to manage their next special event without the burden of overseeing every detail, and to keep their email and digital chaos organized and pristine
It is clear that Shayla doesn’t just help professional women and working moms maintain a healthy work-life balance, but also a personal fulfillment by gifting them with the most valuable thing in life - time! Better Than A Bot Inc does not only offer an elevated virtual assistant experience, but is a lifeline service for busy professionals seeking to simplify their lives. With Shayla's expert guidance, clients will be professionally supported while having their to-do lists turned into done lists - allowing them to devote more time to what is most important so they can live a more balanced and healthier existence
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Erin and Layton Phillips, Owners of Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa Waterloo, shared their journey of transitioning from operating Bulk Barn locations to entering the wellness industry with the Hand & Stone franchise in a recent interview with CanadianSME Small Business Magazine Their deeprooted connection to the Guelph and Waterloo communities inspired them to diversify their business ventures, aiming to enhance local quality of life through comprehensive wellness services Emphasizing their core values of community involvement, professionalism, and lifelong learning, Erin and Layton prioritize personal connections and continuous improvement in their operations. Their plans to expand into Kitchener and Cambridge reflect their commitment to bringing high-quality wellness services to a broader audience while maintaining strong community ties.
Erin and Layton Phillips are a dynamic fatherdaughter entrepreneurial duo with a deep-rooted commitment to their community and a proven track record of success in the franchising industry Hailing from Guelph, Ontario, where their family history spans five generations, the Phillips have always been passionate about contributing to the wellbeing of their hometown
With over 20 years of experience as multi-unit franchisees of Bulk Barn, Canada’s largest bulk food retailer, Erin and Layton have honed their operational skills and business acumen They currently own and operate five Bulk Barn locations across Guelph and Waterloo
In 2023, Erin and Layton ventured into the wellness industry by opening their first Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa in Guelph. Their decision to bring Hand & Stone's premier wellness services to their community was driven by a desire to provide a sanctuary where individuals could relax, rejuvenate and discover the benefits of self-care The Guelph location marked the beginning of their journey with the Hand & Stone franchise, and they have since expanded their presence by opening a second spa at The Boardwalk in Waterloo in June 2024 The duo has plans to open additional locations in Kitchener and Cambridge in the coming years
Owners of Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa Waterloo
Having successfully operated multiple Bulk Barn locations, what inspired you both to transition into the wellness industry with the Hand & Stone franchise?
Erin: Our journey with Bulk Barn has been incredibly rewarding, allowing us to serve the Guelph and Waterloo communities through our five family-run stores Transitioning into the wellness industry from the food retail sector has been an exciting challenge for us We were confident in our ability to manage multiple businesses successfully and were inspired to diversify our businesses by our desire to bring something new and beneficial to our beloved community We pride ourselves on being thoughtful about the types of businesses we invest in, aiming to enhance the quality of life for our neighbors
Layton: The wellness industry, particularly the services offered by Hand & Stone, aligns perfectly with our belief in personal connection and community well-being We recognized the growing need for self-care options in our community, and the Hand & Stone brand stood out to us because of its commitment to excellence and the wide range of services offered, from Swedish to Oncology massages and advanced skincare treatments. We felt that bringing such a comprehensive wellness service to Guelph and Waterloo would be a meaningful way to give back to our community and help individuals to improve their physical and mental health
As lifelong residents with deep family roots in Guelph, how does your local heritage influence your business strategies and community engagement at your spa locations?
Erin: With family roots in Guelph spanning five generations, our long-term presence in this community significantly influences how we approach our business We understand the importance of trust and personal connections, which drives my family to prioritize community engagement and ensure that our business practices reflect the values of our hometown. We aim to create a welcoming and inclusive environment at our spas and stores, so every guest feels valued
Layton: Having been a part of this community for over 40 years, I can confidently say that our long-standing connections in the area allow us to better understand and meet the needs of our clients and customers We leverage this by integrating community-focused strategies into our operations This includes participating in local events, supporting neighborhood initiatives, and creating relationships with other local businesses We see our spas as extensions of our family’s commitment to Guelph
Could you elaborate on how you integrate your core values of community involvement, professionalism, and lifelong learning into the day-to-day operations of your wellness centers?
Erin: To maintain the high level of professionalism, our staff are selected not only on their experience and skillset, but the way they treat others. As we always strive to provide a better service than the last, this is maintained through continuous training and development of our employees Lifelong learning is a core value that we instill in our team and we will always promote ongoing education in the wellness industry, which allows us to stay ahead of the curve, implementing the latest trends and techniques that our clients desire
ImageCourtesy:Hand&Stone
Layton: By staying updated with the latest advancements in massage, wellness and skincare, we continue to offer innovative treatments that enhance our clients’ experience and further improve their well-being We also prioritize feedback from our clients and team members to ensure we are continually improving our services and operations And of course, community involvement is at the heart of everything we do, as we are always seeking new ways to give back and support our neighbors
You have plans to expand into Kitchener and Cambridge. What factors make these areas attractive for your business growth, and how do you foresee the expansion influencing your operations?
Erin: Our decision to seek expansion opportunities in Kitchener and Cambridge is driven by their vibrant communities and dynamic environments, which aligns well with the high-quality, professional services that we plan to introduce The proximity to our existing locations in Waterloo and Guelph also allows us to maintain a cohesive operational strategy and leverage our established reputation in the region
Layton: Expanding into Kitchener and Cambridge allows us to extend our reach and make Hand & Stone’s premier service offerings more accessible throughout Ontario This growth allows us to create more job opportunities and contribute to the local economy as well. Our goal is to maintain the same level of personal connection and community engagement that we have in Guelph and Waterloo, ensuring each location feels like a natural extension of our family business
Reflecting on your journey into the wellness industry, what has been the most rewarding aspect of this new venture, and what advice would you offer to other entrepreneurs considering a similar path?
Erin: The most rewarding aspect has been seeing the positive impact our services have on our clients’ lives It fills me with great joy to see our clients leaving the spa with a smile on their face feeling totally rejuvenated It’s fulfilling to know that we can help people find balance in their busy lives and improve their overall well-being
Layton: My advice to other entrepreneurs is to thoroughly research and choose a business that aligns with your values and passions, and just as importantly, ensure that it will enhance your community It can always be a bit daunting to jump into something new, but if you are dedicated to providing exceptional service and truly care about the area you are operating in, it will be a rewarding experience Surround yourself with a supportive team and never stop learning
Senior Global Partner Business Manager for SAP Concur
In a recent interview with CanadianSME Small Business Magazine, Kristen Hrycoy, Senior Global Partner Business Manager for SAP Concur, highlighted the crucial role of business travel in career advancement. The 6th Annual SAP Concur Global Business Travel Survey revealed that 66% of Canadian business travelers see travel as essential for their career growth, emphasizing the importance of face-to-face interactions Kristen discussed the challenges posed by reduced travel flexibility due to cost-cutting measures, which can hinder critical career connections She also underscored the need for equitable travel policies and comprehensive support for business travelers, especially in dealing with travel disruptions Moreover, Kristen elaborated on the potential benefits of AI and Generative AI in enhancing business travel experiences and mentioned the recent SAP Concur and Mastercard partnership to streamline corporate expense management
Kristen Hyrcoy is the Senior Global Partner Business Manager for SAP Concur, and is responsible for managing the relationship with the organization’s most strategic Travel Management Company partners across the Globe.
With a lifetime of experience in the Canadian travel industry, Kristen has been with SAP Concur for 9 years.
What makes business travel essential for many professionals in advancing their careers, and how do you see this reflected in the Canadian results from the 6th Annual SAP Concur Global Business Travel Survey?
As you know, business travel is essential for many professionals because it offers unique opportunities for networking, collaboration, and personal and professional development that cannot be fully replicated through virtual means Face-to-face interactions foster stronger relationships, trust, and understanding between colleagues, clients, and partners These interactions are often crucial for closing deals, managing projects, and driving business growth
In the Canadian results from the 6th Annual SAP Concur Global Business Travel Survey, it was found that a significant 66% of Canadian business travelers believe that business travel is critical for their career advancement This sentiment underscores the importance of in-person meetings and the role they play in professional growth Additionally, the survey revealed that two-thirds of Canadian business travelers feel they haven’t received equal opportunity to travel compared to their colleagues. Factors such as seniority (25%), age (19%), and gender (11%) were cited as reasons for unequal access to travel opportunities, highlighting the need for more equitable travel policies within organizations
How do changes in travel flexibility impact critical career connections for business travelers, and what are some ways companies are cutting travel options?
Changes in travel flexibility significantly impact business travelers' ability to maintain and build critical career connections Flexible travel options allow employees to accommodate personal and professional commitments, making it easier to manage work-life balance and maximize productivity during trips However, recent costcutting measures by companies have led to reduced travel flexibility, which can hinder these connections.
The survey data indicates that 46% of Canadian business travelers report that their company prioritizes meeting employees' needs for flexible travel options. However, around 30% of respondents noted that their companies are more focused on cutting travel costs. Specific measures include reducing the ability for employees to work remotely while traveling for pleasure or combining personal travel with business trips.
Given the issues with travel interruptions, how can employers better support business travelers when problems arise?
Today, employers can better support business travelers by implementing comprehensive travel policies and providing the necessary resources to handle interruptions efficiently This includes offering flexible booking options, real-time travel assistance, and ensuring clear communication channels for support.
The survey found that 91% of Canadian business travelers have been forced to make last-minute changes in the past year due to unexpected delays, cancellations, or re-routing To mitigate the impact of these disruptions, companies can introduce measures such as allowing greater travel flexibility, incorporating 'booking buffers,' and providing access to private connecting transport options Additionally, offering learning and development opportunities for travel managers is crucial According to the survey, 100% of travel managers anticipate their jobs becoming more challenging in the next 12 months, and 35% feel they are expected to take on a more strategic role without additional training
In what areas do you see AI or Generative AI (GenAI) benefiting business travelers, and can you share some examples of how SAP Concur is integrating these technologies?
AI can significantly benefit business travelers by enhancing automation, personalization, and efficiency. For instance, AI can simplify the booking process, offer real-time travel assistance, and make personalized recommendations based on a traveler's preferences and past behaviors
AI-enabled tools can automate expense reporting, suggest cancellation and rebooking options, and provide predictive analytics to anticipate and address potential travel disruptions Our survey indicates that 96% of Canadian business travelers are open to using AI-enabled options when arranging travel, though fewer than one in ten are currently comfortable using these options
To support the successful adoption of AI, comprehensive training for AI systems and integrating safeguards into travel policies is emphasized to address concerns such as data protection and bias. This approach helps build traveler confidence in using AI tools and maximizes the benefits these technologies can offer.
Can you discuss the recent partnership between SAP Concur and Mastercard and how this collaboration enhances the corporate expense management process for both employees and businesses?
Absolutely! Our recent partnership with Mastercard will significantly enhance the corporate expense management process Purchases made on Mastercard corporate cards will be automatically captured and populated in Concur Expense, eliminating manual entry and ensuring real-time compliance. This integration provides businesses with greater control and visibility over expenses while allowing employees to focus on their core responsibilities Travel and finance managers can set spending controls to enforce expense policies This partnership sets a new standard for efficient and accurate expense reporting, benefiting customers globally
How Leasey.AI is Changing Property Management
Carlos Leal and Juan Leal, co-founders of Leasey AI, shared their journey and insights in a recent interview with CanadianSME Small Business Magazine Motivated by the inefficiencies they encountered while managing rental properties in Vancouver, Carlos and Juan developed Leasey AI to streamline property management processes. By leveraging AI to automate tasks such as lead responses, tenant pre-qualification, and scheduling, Leasey.AI offers a comprehensive solution that addresses complex leasing scenarios overlooked by other platforms. Their innovative approach significantly improves efficiency, reduces manual tasks, and enhances the tenant experience, making Leasey.AI a crucial tool in addressing Canada's current housing crisis The platform’s success and positive impact underscore the founders' dedication to revolutionizing the property management sector with modern technology
Juan Leal, CPA, CA - Co-founder at Leasey.AI
At Leasey AI, we understand that property management should be a seamless and efficient experience Our essence lies in simplifying the complexities of property management through cutting-edge technology and personalized support. We envision a future where property owners can focus on what matters most to them while we handle the rest.
Carlos Leal - Co-founder at Leasey.AI
I'm an entrepreneur on a mission to create a future of trust, transparency, and meaningful connections My passion lies at the intersection of business, technology, and innovation, where I explore how they enhance human experiences
Right now, I'm building Leasey AI, a game-changer in property management Our platform streamlines leasing, saving time and effort We're targeting asset managers, property managers, and residential real estate operators, making leasing smoother
What inspired the inception of Leasey.AI, and why did you feel there was a need for a new property management solution in a sector with longestablished players?
The story of Leasey AI began with a shared frustration While managing their own portfolio of rental properties in Vancouver, Juan and Carlos faced a barrage of challenges Advertising vacant properties across multiple platforms, dealing with an influx of mostly unqualified leads, and spending countless hours responding to inquiries and coordinating showings often disrupted their demanding day jobs in management consulting
Existing tools only addressed specific pain points, necessitating the ‘stitching of multiple point solutions, resulting in major inefficiencies
In his role advising some of Canada's largest asset managers, Carlos identified that these gaps were widespread throughout the industry Despite the use of legacy ERP solutions like Yardi or SAP, manual coordination among stakeholders such as leasing agents, dispatchers, and building managers remained a bottleneck
Recognizing the industry need, Juan and Carlos began developing Leasey AI part-time during the pandemic In 2021, they launched a minimum viable product (MVP) pilot with over thirty landlords The success of this pilot, coupled with securing their first enterprise client, marked a pivotal milestone and propelled them to commit to Leasey.AI full-time in February of 2022.
Can you explain the unique features of Leasey.AI and why clients prefer your platform over other solutions available in the market?
Leasey’s unique features include:
Facebook Marketplace Automation:
This feature automatically posts rental properties on Facebook Marketplace, the most popular platform for finding tenants in North America It saves time and effort by eliminating manual posting, ensuring properties reach a large audience quickly
Instant Lead Responses:
This feature responds to leads instantly with automated messages, regardless of which rental marketplace they are inquiring from It increases engagement and reduces the chance of losing potential tenants due to delayed responses
Automated Pre-qualification and Scheduling:
This feature pre-qualifies leads based on property managers ’ specific criteria for a property and allows those qualified leads to schedule showings instantly It streamlines the lead qualification process, ensuring only serious and qualified applicants are scheduled for viewings, reducing no-shows
Thorough Tenant Screening Leveraging AI:
This feature analyzes applicant information using AI to provide a comprehensive tenant screening process It enhances the quality of tenant selection by evaluating various factors, leading to more reliable and suitable tenants
What positive impact is Leasey.AI bringing to the rental ecosystem in Canada, particularly during the current housing crisis?
Leasey.AI tackles Canada’s housing crisis by streamlining property management to speed up tenant placements and improve service quality Tenants frequently face frustration due to low response rates from landlords and cumbersome, outdated application processes, which intensify their difficulties and strain relations with landlords
Property managers prefer Leasey.AI over existing solutions due to its user-friendly, modern interface that simplifies adoption. The platform's advanced automation significantly reduces manual tasks, resulting in major time savings and scalability for property management operations. The platform leverages AI to deliver proactive insights to help property managers simplify and improve their decision-making and optimize their operations. Finally, Leasey.AI addresses complex leasing scenarios that many other platforms overlook, providing comprehensive solutions that enhance efficiency and effectiveness in managing rental properties.
Leasey AI ensures a 100% response in seconds, not days, and streamlines processes, enhancing the tenant experience and allowing property managers to provide better service The property management industry, currently understaffed by over 50% and facing rising immigration, needs efficient solutions to manage increased workloads. Leasey.AI’s technology is essential for meeting this demand and ensuring timely, effective housing solutions
How are you leveraging modern technologies like AI to innovate and improve efficiency in a traditionally static sector like property management?
Leasey.AI leverages modern technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), to bring significant innovations and efficiency improvements to the traditionally static sector of property management Here’s how Leasey AI addresses three key areas:
Streamlining the Leasing Process:
Leasey AI automates up to 90% of manual leasing tasks, such as lead responses, tenant pre-qualification, and property showings This saves property managers time, letting them focus on strategic planning and property improvements, which boosts efficiency and job satisfaction
Expediting Decision Making:
Leasey AI analyzes tenant data, including dozens of data points, like credit scores and rental history, providing clear summaries of qualifications This helps property managers make quick, informed decisions, speeding up tenant selection and improving reliability
Optimizing Leasing Operations:
Leasey AI consolidates key operational data such as lead conversions, applicant demographics, and leasing team performance Its AI provides actionable insights and analytics, allowing property managers to monitor performance, evaluate operations, and make quicker strategic decisions, boosting efficiency and profitability
What has been your biggest challenge in developing and scaling Leasey.AI, and how have you overcome it?
The biggest challenge our business faced in the past year was overcoming the industry's resistance to adopting new technology. The property management industry is known for adhering to traditional, manual, and routine processes because "that's how it's always been done " This resistance to change often stems from a fear that technology might threaten job security and alter established workflows
We addressed the industry's resistance to new technology by designing a simple, intuitive platform that quickly demonstrates its value to clients. By immersing ourselves in clients' processes and tailoring our solution to their specific needs, we ensured greater relevance and effectiveness. We also focus on educating clients and building relationships, showing how our technology enhances their roles by eliminating bottlenecks and improving efficiency. Continuous support and adaptation based on client feedback have kept our technology aligned with their evolving needs, fostering a smooth adoption process.
Blendingtechnology andmarketingfor SMEsuccess
London, ON-based Pulp and Press, a wellness beverage venture offering organic cold-pressed juices, wellness shots and smoothies, had its humble beginnings in 2014, to now having its presence in major Canadian and US retail stores
Crossing the landmark of successfully selling 3 million bottles in 2019, this TechAlliance's i d e a Fund recipient is well on its path to becoming a standout success story coming out of the Forest City While the business itself is known for its high-quality, no-added-preservatives line of beverages, its rapid success and global expansion is also credited to its strong MarTech strategy.
Cory Dubeau, Partner and Senior Vice President of Strategy at one of Canada’s leading integrated marketing agencies, Northern Commerce, has worked closely with Pulp and Press since its beginning to develop and execute some of these successful digital strategies that helped transform the brand into a popular household name Success stories of companies such as Pulp and Press emphasize the importance of leveraging digital technologies to gain a competitive edge In this ever-evolving digital landscape where traditional marketing methods are often supplemented by data-driven strategies, MarTech emerges as a crucial tool for SMEs aiming to enhance customer engagement, optimize marketing efforts, and drive growth
From e-commerce, digital advertising using firstparty data, marketing automation, to Customer Relationship Management (CRM) platforms, MarTech involves the deployment of technological solutions to better optimize marketing efforts. “Typically, things that are done in a more automated fashion now use software solutions to increase efficiency and performance of their marketing and advertising strategies,” says Dubeau Working with industry and sizeagnostic clients, Dubeau has only seen the rise of MarTech solutions throughout his career at Northern Commerce An agency focused on helping brands navigate their digital transformation, Northern provides engagement and marketing solutions, innovative e-commerce technology strategies and expertise in UX and UI with a keen focus on creating the perfect customer journey “Since we work on all three of these components, this helps us in covering the entire gamut of digital efforts for our clients and building the best customer journey for their target audience,” says Dubeau From working with startups, scale-ups, SMEs and enterprises, with specialization in the retail sector including large Canadian retailers such as Canadian Tire, Rexall, and Staples, Dubeau has seen a common thread in the MarTech space – these (MarTech) solutions have now evolved and revolutionized to become more consolidated, “The industry is heading towards a more blended marketing strategy that involves leveraging technical capabilities with an increase in the personalization factor ”
Corey Dubeau, SVP Strategy at Northern Commerce
While AI and Machine Learning are disrupting every industry, it is no surprise that MarTech solutions are also using the power of AI to collect data from all different systems to create better experiences and better performance marketing strategies That’s not all – one of the other emerging trends in this space is leveraging first-party customer data to gear marketing strategies accordingly “This is so important for small businesses, as they do have access to a lot of their first-party customer data They also know their customers on a more intimate level than other larger organizations This helps them in creating a more tailored and personalized experience based on individual behaviour,” says Dubeau Leveraging accessible data while combating privacy restrictions can help brands target and segment their audience at the right time in the sales funnel Recognizing this, Northern Commerce launched Convertevent, a Facebook Conversion API solution that helps brands better understand their customers by leveraging their server data In simple terms, this tool helps companies improve their ad performance, grow their retargeting pools, and collect deeper data by tracking their website’s server, not the user ’ s website activity which might have cookie and ad blockers, disabling data tracking altogether How does this work? “This solution enables us to collect first-party data that we own as a brand or that our clients own as a brand, and then informs the advertising platform in a way that is still compliant with privacy and security updates,” says Dubeau Since this data belongs to your website and has been acquired through your own customer’s purchase information with consent, this helps ventures leverage their own data in a way that helps them create better advertising and user experience for all
All these innovations in the marketing industry have not only created smarter ways of targeting audiences but also paved the way for precision, automation, strategic optimization, and predictive data analysis Earlier, reaping the benefits of everything that MarTech offers seemed like a dream. According to Dubeau, that’s not the case anymore. With multiple easy-to-use, affordable technologies in the market, Dubeau shares how accessibility is not a prominent hurdle for most SMEs in today’s world “There are so many different solutions out there that you'll typically find something for the objective that you ' re trying to hit,” says Dubeau However, with many options comes the dilemma of choosing the right
platform “Start small, start focused Pick the right solution that solves the current problem that you ’ re looking for Understand the marketing platform that you are working with and try to get the most out of that platform before you then integrate another one That’s crucial for SMEs, so that this process doesn’t get intimidating,” shares Dubeau
The only challenge of using these platforms? The learning journey of understanding and fully utilizing the MarTech platform to flourish your business. “That’s why agencies like us exist. It really comes down to more of the in-house expertise or time, at the end of the day. You might be capable of doing it, but as an SME, your time is very valuable, and you want to focus on the items that grow the business the most,” says Dubeau.
As SMEs try to create greater brand awareness, tap into bigger audience groups, and aim to provide better digital experiences for their customers, the evolving revolution in MarTech with innovations like AI and first-party data utilization will only create more accessibility and potential for these tools, especially for SMEs. Evident from Northern’s MarTech strategy for Pulp and Press’ success, the key lies in selecting the right solutions, understanding their full potential, and efficiently implementing them to enhance customer engagement and business outcomes As Dubeau says, “You can’t have a marketing strategy these days without using any type of MarTech solution in some capacity or the other ”
VisionforInclusive EmployeeBenefits
In a recent interview with CanadianSME Small Business Magazine, Pascale Mapleston, founder and CEO of The Benefit Code, shed light on the critical role of comprehensive group benefits in shaping both employee satisfaction and corporate success Pascale emphasized that well-structured benefits programs are an extension of a company ' s brand, promoting health and well-being among employees She pointed out the shortcomings of traditional benefits systems, such as outdated policies and lack of inclusivity, and stressed the necessity for innovative, accessible solutions The Benefit Code utilizes employee data to tailor wellness plans, incorporating tools like DNA tests to aid in informed health decisions. Pascale also shared success stories, like the significant reduction in stressrelated conditions within a mid-sized company, illustrating the positive impact of their customized benefits approach.
Pascale Mapleston is the founder and CEO of The Benefit Code. She is uniquely focused on promoting employee health by utilizing data so that people can identify potential health pain points and improve upon small health issues before they become large ones Over the last 20-plus years, Pascale has crafted her experience, founding her benefit and pension consultancy and advisory business in 2012 She is known for disrupting the traditional health benefits space and introducing new ideas that incorporate science, technology, and data to identify areas of focus for organizations
A certified Women Business Enterprises Canada Council (WBE) member, Pascale is unique in the health insurance market for driving a female-led organization in a traditionally male-dominated space Pascale is known for her innovative spirit and bigpicture vision She is an expert on how companies can better support their employees’ health through data and offering health advocacy programs in the workplace
Can you explain why great group benefits matter and how they impact both employees and employers?
Think of your employee compensation, and in particular, your employee benefits as a way to extend your corporate brand to one of health and well-being and your benefits broker as your partner in employee health optimization When a company has the right programs in place – in which they are addressing the unique needs of the organization and the individuals within the organization – they maximize ROI, reduce longterm costs, improve employee health and workplace culture
Founder and CEO of The Benefit Code
What are some of the main issues you ' re seeing in the traditional benefits space, and how do you envision the future of this industry?
We see the biggest issue as companies and brokers not evolving with the times or making new and relevant recommendations
Many employers are not taking the opportunity to pivot to inclusive language or updating policy addressing the needs of the Canadian worker We see missed opportunities with employees not able to access resources or tools to help manage their health There is an opportunity to focus communications and contract language around gender inclusion, age inclusion, to hormonal health at any stage of one ’ s journey, it’s important that everyone in an organization feels recognized and supported.
We know that employees are not staying with organizations as long as they were 30 years ago, plan options, design and support needs to meet employees where they are, for the journey they are on while they are with each organization
On-line, easy access, and access anytime is the key to supporting individuals and choosing partners that make that access easy is a win for any organization
How does The Benefit Code use employee data to create personalized and effective wellness plans? Can you provide some examples of this in action?
The Benefit Code uses claims and demographic data to personalize benefit offerings which in turn has a significant impact on employee satisfaction.
The value adds we bring are significant We pivot to adjust to each corporate health landscape and develop custom communications addressing needs, existing claims data and disease states for each client That allows us to focus programs and communications that help target issues proactively to manage health and overall well-being
We also embrace tools and opportunities to better support members when they need them. For example, we offer DNA tests to help employees gain insight and make more informed decisions alongside their health care providers. We are known for our custom communications that really stand out in the market. Communicating in a relevant and easy to understand way helps all generations, all cultures gain access to what works best for them.
What do you believe are the biggest misconceptions companies and employees have about benefit plans, and how can they be addressed?
Benefits are really an extension of a companies’ corporate culture and through them, employers are showing employees that they value their people and their families
Employee Benefits and total compensation become part of your brand if you market it right and will help attract, retain and maintain your employees, the health of your company and optimize your corporate culture
When it comes to benefit plans being underutilized, this is driven by lack of communication and understanding of coverage available and how to access the programs Effectively communicating the plan and how to access coverage is critical. Target and focus on the way that plans are not being used and that will drive usage up. The data is there, we just need the focus- and then the strategy- looking at the data quarterly will help drive results
Benefits are still considered by many companies as a must provide, but many mid-sized companies are missing the opportunity of that existing spend being a huge driver of their brand and identity if the benefits are marketed right within the organization.
Benefit plans have evolved and include easy access tools to help optimize health- communicating effectively is essential to drive usage
Finally there are a lot of products in the market, so knowing which ones will best serve your demographic is key to a successful program
Can you share a specific story or example of how The Benefit Code has significantly improved a company ' s employee benefits and overall workplace culture?
Yes, working closely with a mid sized HR team for a successful company in Ontario we noticed that although the company was successful in sales and growth the claims data was pointing us to trends within the organization that we wanted to address proactively, in particular high levels of stress which was leading to the big 3sleep disorders, depression and anxiety We know that if not addressed these indicators lead to burn out, employee leaves as well as poor long term health.
We helped focus programs and communications on these trends and we were pleased to see the results after 3 years in that area of focus
Depression/Anxiety/Sleep Disorders –number of participants accessing medications for these conditions dropped by 29% over the period of study and engagement numbers up
Pain management – (indicator of a leading cause of disability) the number of participants using these medications dropped by 41% over the same period
The unfortunate division of the world has set a course of destructive menace that’s threatening the very survival of the human race Our planet has been at the receiving end of our mindless industrialization But all is not lost in this process, as there are leaders pioneering sustainability using innovation and scientific breakthroughs One such leader is Diana Virgovicova, the innovative Founder and CEO of Xatoms, who started an extraordinary journey in a quaint village in Slovakia At the tender age of just 14 years old, she embarked on a backpacking trip through India with her mother. This journey opened her eyes to the harsh truths of water pollution
After witnessing the sorry state of polluted rivers, Diana resolved to devote herself to the cause of cleaner water At just 17 years old, she achieved a remarkable feat by using quantum chemistry software to uncover a groundbreaking material for purifying water This exceptional discovery led to her being awarded the esteemed Diploma of Excellence by the Swedish Royal Family and securing a full Lester B Pearson International Scholarship to pursue computer engineering at the University of Toronto This initial research formed the basis for Xatoms, a company dedicated to utilizing AI and quantum chemistry to tackle the issue of worldwide water pollution Read on to discover how Diana is changing the course of innovation and potential history
Founder&CEOatXatoms
Revolutionary Advancement
Under Diana's able leadership, Xatoms is at the forefront of developing innovative materials that can filter water of harmful microorganisms, viruses, and pesticides by merging artificial intelligence with quantum chemistry In fact, with over two billion people worldwide lacking access to safe drinking water, Xatoms' creative strategy could be a game-changer Collaborating with teams in Canada, the Netherlands, and Nigeria, Xatoms is making strides in reducing water contamination Xatoms' technology, which uses advanced quantum chemistry calculations and AI to model novel molecules of photocatalysts crucial in water purification, has the potential to save countless lives by preventing waterborne diseases and offering a solution to water pollution. The urgency of this issue cannot be overstated, and Xatoms is at the helm of addressing it.
Renown and Influence on a Global Scale
Interestingly enough, Diana's Xatom work has received a lot of praise and support from all across the world Notable institutions like UNESCO, AWS, and the International Research Centre on AI support the startup, and it is happy to participate in the Compute for Climate Fellowship What’s more, Xatoms also has the backing of Reddit's Alexis Ohanian, who founded the 776 Climate Fellowship. This widespread recognition and support not only highlight the significance and influence of Xatoms' mission but also reassure the audience of the company ' s credibility and the importance of its work In fact, over 2,000 children under the age of five die every day from water-related ailments such as diarrhea, cholera, and dysentery Xatoms strives to end the vicious cycle of poverty and diseases by providing clean water and fostering healthier, bettereducated, and economically secure communities
Eliminating the need for women and girls to spend time gathering water is central to Xatoms' aim. This burden is disproportionately placed on girls and women in many regions of the globe, preventing them from achieving economic and educational success Xatoms' mission is to empower women and girls by eliminating this everyday obstacle to education and economic advancement by implementing sustainable water treatment technologies The impact of education and creativity can be seen in Diana's journey, which began in a tiny hamlet in Slovakia and ended on a worldwide platform By founding Xatoms, she is doing double duty: helping the environment and paving the way for future female leaders Xatoms team consists of CEO - Diana Virgovicova, CTO- Kerem Topal Ismail Oglou, and COO- Shirley Zhong
Ultimately, Diana Virgovicova and Xatoms spearhead the battle against water contamination worldwide Innovative solutions are being developed using AI and quantum chemistry; these solutions have the potential to empower women and girls around the globe, save lives, and give clean water to millions Thus, the bottom line is that Xatoms' revolutionary work lays the groundwork for a healthier, more egalitarian future.
Diana was born and raised by a single mother in a small village in Slovakia, Eastern Europe Very early on, water became a significant part of her life At 14, during a backpacking trip in India with her mom, she witnessed the devastating impact of water pollution firsthand. Black rivers, people suffering from waterborne diseases, and girls her age using contaminated water during their periods these scenes were pivotal in her decision to dedicate her life to purifying polluted water
Upon returning to Slovakia, Diana began researching at a local university. By 17, she had utilized quantum chemistry software to discover a novel photocatalyst molecule capable of purifying polluted water when exposed to sunlight Her work earned her the Diploma of Excellence from Princess Victoria of Sweden at the World Water Week as part of the Stockholm Junior Water Prize This achievement led to the Lester B Pearson International Scholarship, a fully funded scholarship enabling her to study computer engineering at the University of Toronto.
To learn more about Diana’s contributions, visit their official website here.
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Diana founded Xatoms in Canada This startup combines AI and quantum chemistry to develop materials that eliminate viruses, bacteria, and pesticides from water But Xatoms is more than just a quantum tech company; it is on a mission to improve global gender equality by providing clean water, reducing the reliance on unsafe water, and freeing women and girls from the burden of water collection, allowing them to pursue education instead
Xatoms has garnered significant support, including funding through the 776 Climate Fellowship, $100k USD from Reddit founder Alexis Ohanian, and backing from UNESCO, AWS, and the International Research Center on AI. Their R&D is fully funded by the Compute for Climate Fellowship. They have received the first prize in Toronto's biggest research-based Desjardins startup competition and have been featured by Forbes and Betakit Xatoms is currently running pilot projects in Kenya and South Africa, as well as working with Indigenous communities in Canada to ensure that everyone in Canada has access to clean and safe drinking water.
Just recently, Xatoms received $500k, won the Women in Tech Award, Best of the Fest, and Front Row Ventures These awards were matched with a $250k investment from BDC
Diana's journey in water technology led to being named Canada's Youth Entrepreneur of the Year 2023. She has also shared her insights in a TEDx talk, "Quantum Computing and AI: A Solution to Water Pollution and Equity" Xatoms is collaborating with water organizations across Canada, the US, and Africa and is committed to delivering clean water worldwide through efficient, affordable technology
Diana has presented Xatoms technology at the UN, World Water Week in Stockholm, and World Water Forum in Bali She was also named the youngest speaker at the G20 YEA (Young Entrepreneurs Alliance) in Brazil last month, where she represented Canada as a delegate
ImageCourtesy:Xatoms
In a time when data is the driving force behind decisionmaking, running a business has never had such vast empirical records at hand This is where one organization has emerged that helps firms extract accurate predictions from data, for better decision-making, Canvass AI, is among the vanguard of the industry, providing AI-powered solutions that transform industrial operations Canvass AI assists industries in identifying undiscovered opportunities, optimizing process efficiency, and attaining sustainability objectives without sacrificing production through their innovative suites Process Suite, Net-Zero Suite™, and Asset Suite Below we explore the industrial sector's primary offerings and the impact of Canvass AI Read on to learn how Canvass is altering the canvas of operational excellence in manufacturing
Optimizing Operational Efficiency
Canvass AI’s series of solutions tackle common industrial problems and help industrials exceed their production goals by revealing previously undetected optimizations Its predictive capabilities enables real-time responses to process diversions, ensuring the system's seamless operation
At one of the customers leveraging Canvass AI for maximizing asset performance, plant engineers and operators achieved significant cost reductions with a 30% decrease in asset failures and unplanned downtime Another customer using Canvass AI’s Cogeneration Optimization solution has reduced energy consumption, and GHG (greenhouse gas) emissions, by 3% Another one solved gearbox performance issues, a solution that can immediately be scaled to 250 additional sites for estimated annual cost savings of $20 million.
Net-Zero Suite is a Leading Sustainability Solution
We all know how businesses worldwide are concerned about environmental sustainability, which is where Canvass AI’s Net-Zero Suite supports them The suite allows enterprises to find creative ways to minimize waste, reduce CO2/GHG emissions, and water use while maintaining production targets As cited above, one company using Canvass AI’s Cogeneration Optimization solution has decreased greenhouse gas emissions by 3% helping to reach corporate sustainability goals
ImageCourtesy: Humera Malik CanvassAI
Renowned Industrials Rely on Us
Large industrial firms rely on Canvass AI to improve their operations Due to Canvass AI’s extensive understanding of industrial processes and its domain specialists and partners, onboarding for customers is streamlined and results are achieved very quickly, typically in 6 to 8 weeks with ROIs as high as 20x Today, Canvass AI helps oil and gas, petrochemical, food and agriculture and other industrial manufacturing firms tap into their data's value, to improve operational performance, optimize production processes, and meet sustainability goals
“Thanks to Canvass AI's user-friendly and straightforward solutions, engineers can now get value from data with little to no data science knowledge. To help companies achieve a quick time to value with a low cost of ownership, our solutions provide immediate advantages with a quick time to market and measurable ROI that can be scaled at will.”
- Humera Malik, CEO, Canvass AI
MONET – Canvass AI’s New AI Agent
There’s no doubt that the explosion of Generative AI on the market will have an enormously positive impact on manufacturing And again, it all starts with understanding the data at hand, and using AI to uncover its insights
Canvass AI recently introduced MONET, a new way to interact with data Targeting any user with any data, MONET lets them quickly visualize and analyze their data by conversing in simple language like “visualize impurity levels over time” to draw out insights for optimal operational performance Effectively what the industry calls an AI Agent, MONET is trained on more than 120 proven industrial use cases The software is available for a trial, with an option to upgrade to a team or a corporate license
Canvass AI’s innovative AI solutions are revolutionizing the industrial sector, enhancing efficiency and sustainability Their existing suites Process Suite, NetZero Suite, and Asset Suite solve common industrial problems such as improving asset management, driving optimization in manufacturing processes, and decreasing environmental impact MONET expands the company ’ s visibility and AI use to a broader set of users, including small and medium -sized enterprises, which, according to StatsCan, only approximately one in eight (12 3%) businesses with one to four employees is using (8 5%) or planning to use (3 8%) Generative AI
Want to learn in-depth about Canvass AI’s services and solutions? Visit their official site here.
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With the world relying on technology with every passing quarter, IT support has become the backbone of any business that eyes success and process. This calls for support specialists like Joe Apps Technology Support, which is well-regarded for its dependable and cuttingedge IT services. What’s more, their motto, "Get-a-Joe today, to take all your technology problems away!" highlights their objective to relieve organizations of technological challenges, guaranteeing seamless and effective operations Joe Apps Technology Support is devoted to assisting companies in achieving success via advanced technology solutions, with the support of a highly skilled staff of IT specialists
Comprehensive IT Expertise
As a matter of fact, Joe Apps Technology Support is home to a top-tier team of IT specialists, each with a unique focus on network infrastructure, software development, cybersecurity, and customer support This diverse skill set ensures that the team is equipped to handle any technological challenge With a team of over ten members, 1,000 successful projects, 700 satisfied customers, and 10,500 issues resolved, their track record speaks volumes about their capability and reliability.
As such, the company is distinguished by its proactive approach to problem-solving By identifying and addressing potential issues before they escalate, the team minimizes downtime and maximizes customer productivity This forward-thinking strategy is a testament to their dedication to exceptional service and support
Tailored Cybersecurity and Compliance Solutions
Within the prevailing commercial realm, organizations prioritize cybersecurity, which is why the company recognizes the constantly changing nature of cyber threats and provides robust solutions to protect its customers' enterprises Their cybersecurity services allow companies to concentrate on expansion without worrying about possible cyber-attacks The team's proactive approach guarantees that companies are secured around the clock
It should be noted that Joe Apps Technology Support is also quite effective in managing compliance by helping businesses make sense of the maze of rules and regulations Their job is to ensure that companies follow all the rules and regulations in their field, from creating and enforcing policies to checking in on compliance and reporting any findings With this all-inclusive solution, companies may run their operations with the assurance that they are fully compliant
Infrastructure with Flexibility and Cloud Services
So what’s Joe App’s USP? The company ' s cloud services infrastructure – Joe Apps Technology Support offers servers, storage, networking gear, and other cutting-edge infrastructure services These fundamental resources allow companies to function smoothly and provide their goods and services to customers on time
With Joe Apps at the helm of cloud services, they make sure that companies have access to the resources they need when they need them by providing Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS) Their all-inclusive solutions include routing, network security, and essential infrastructure components, and they further improve connection and communication within enterprises via their network services
Dedication to Greatness and Progress
Joe Apps Technology Support is dedicated to more than simply fixing technical problems; they also push for constant innovation and progress Clients are assured of the most influential and current solutions since the team is dedicated to remaining up-to-date with the newest technology and industry trends Their excellent communication skills enable them to fully grasp customer requirements, allowing them to provide customized solutions that fulfill unique company objectives
So, businesses seeking to enhance their tech skills can rely on Joe Apps Technology Support because of its unwavering dedication to honesty, creativity, and collaboration Their seasoned experts there are committed to freeing up their customers to concentrate on what they do best, and they do it in various ways, including remote help, on-site assistance, and telephone consultations
Ultimately, Joe Apps Technology Support definitely offers cutting-edge IT solutions that can propel your company to new heights To learn more about their services, visit here
Do check out their cybersecurity services at https://www joeapps ca/cybersecurity/
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Fatima Zaidi, Founder and CEO of Quill Inc., shared her journey and insights as a female BIPOC entrepreneur in a recent interview with CanadianSME Small Business Magazine Fatima discussed overcoming biases and structural barriers in the early stages of her business, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy and recognizing one ' s worth She chose to bootstrap Quill Inc to maintain creative control and focus on customer needs, offering valuable advice to other founders Fatima also highlighted key trends in podcasting, including the integration of podcasts into marketing strategies, the rise of video content, and the innovation in podcast formats Additionally, she stressed the significance of corporate philanthropy in employee retention and the importance of building a solid network and hiring driven individuals for business success.
Fatima Zaidi is the Founder and CEO at Quill Inc , an award-winning production agency specializing in corporate audio, and CoHost, a podcast growth and analytics tool As a member of the National Speakers Bureau, Fatima has spoken at various events around the world on media and tech trends leading her to keynote on world stages alongside speakers like Gary Vaynerchuk. In addition to being a commentator for BNN Bloomberg on the challenges that female and BIPOC founders face in entrepreneurship, she is a frequent contributor to publications including The Globe and Mail, and Huffington Post, and has also been featured in publications like Forbes and Entrepreneur. Over her career Fatima has won two Top 30 under 30 awards, DMZ’s Woman of the Year, the Young Professional of the Year by Notable Life, Veuve Clicquot’s Bold Future Award, The Women in Content Marketing Award, and one of Flare Magazine’s Top 100 Women Quill was also listed in 2023 as one of the fastest growing companies by the Globe & Mail
Outside of entrepreneurship Fatima teaches at the University of Toronto, and is Co-Chair of the #Tech4SickKids council for SickKids Hospital which is the second-largest pediatric research hospital in the world. She is on track to raise 25 million dollars to build a new emergency wing of the hospital, as well as fund some of the world's biggest data and AI projects.
FounderandCEOatQuillInc.
ImageCourtesy:QuillInc
As a female BIPOC entrepreneur, can you share some of the unique challenges you faced when starting Quill Inc., and how did you overcome these obstacles?
After speaking with several investors in the early days of building Quill, I realized quite quickly that they had biases, whether conscious or subconscious, about what a successful entrepreneur should look like During those meetings, I couldn't shake the feeling I was there to fill a diversity quota It felt like I was taking an opportunity away from someone who “looks more the part.” I overcame these obstacles by understanding that the system is flawed and that I can rise above these flaws by advocating for myself I think many people have imposter syndrome they don’t feel they deserve to be starting a company, running a business, growing a startup, or in a senior position At the end of the day, we ' re all the CEOs of our brands I constantly remind myself that no one has any more right to be doing what I’m doing than I do the only difference is that I went after what I wanted The structural barriers that BIPOC entrepreneurs face are rooted in social issues, so it's crucial to keep highlighting successful BIPOC entrepreneurs to inspire a future generation of BIPOC entrepreneurs
In the early stages of Quill, you had to make decisions between bootstrapping and seeking venture capital. What influenced your choice, and what advice would you give to other founders facing similar decisions?
In the early stages of growing Quill, I decided between bootstrapping and seeking venture capital. While I felt I didn’t have much choice, I am grateful that I decided to bootstrap my company. I wanted to build Quill on my terms, without being dictated by investors This decision gave me creative control and autonomy over key aspects of my business such as hiring, company culture, the direction we wanted to move in, and the speed at which we grew Bootstrapping allowed me to enjoy the process without the pressure of answering to venture capitalists This freedom has enabled us to focus on what truly matters: our customers Often, when you bring on venture capitalists, their needs and direction take priority, which can detract from the time and energy you can dedicate to your customers For other founders facing a similar decision, I would advise considering what kind of company you want to build and how you want to spend your time If you are looking to maintain creative control while creating a unique culture and focusing on your customers, bootstrapping might be the right choice for you It’s challenging but incredibly rewarding to see your company grow on your terms
With your expertise in developing and growing branded podcasts, what key trends do you see shaping the future of podcasting, especially for corporate clients?
With my experience in developing and growing branded podcasts, I see several trends shaping the future of podcasting Firstly, podcasts will be better integrated into a brands overall marketing strategy Instead of existing on its own, podcasts will become a vital part of a holistic content plan. We are also more likely to see more roles within companies specifically focused on podcast marketing, reflecting its growing importance Video is another trend that’s gaining traction Brands will start adding a visual element to their podcasts, whether through full-length videos or short teasers and snippets This can make the content more engaging and shareable Lastly, we'll see brands getting more creative with their podcast formats The traditional 30-minute interview style might give way to more innovative and intentional uses of audio This creativity will help brands stand out and better connect with their audiences
Your company has seen significant benefits from embedding corporate philanthropy into its culture. How has this strategy helped with employee retention, and why do you think more companies should adopt similar practices?
Our philanthropic work has significantly contributed to employee retention, as my team feels a sense of pride and satisfaction in giving back to our communities We’ve backed philanthropy into our core through volunteering, fundraising, and my work with #Tech4SickKids I believe that any profitable business has the opportunity to give back to communities and do its part in trying to make a change, no matter how small Companies should be giving back because they simply have the means to do so By making philanthropy a foundation of their business, it sends a powerful message to existing employees, future employees, and customers
Having been recognized with numerous awards and accolades throughout your career, what personal mantra or philosophy do you attribute most to your success, and what advice would you give to upcoming entrepreneurs striving to make their mark in media and tech?
Success often involves being in the right place at the right time, with luck playing a big part and a strong work ethic Building a solid network is crucial for me, as offline interactions have the power to form stronger relationships I’ve focused on surrounding myself with a community of founders, creatives, and innovators, and it has been pivotal in my success The community extends beyond just my network and I always hire individuals who are the best in their industry and possess drive and resilience That would be my advice to entrepreneurs striving to make their mark in tech When hiring for your small business, look for folks with drive, work ethics, and a great attitude
Mo Dhaliwal, CEO and Founder of Skyrocket Digital Inc , shared his expertise on the evolving technology of deepfakes and its implications in a recent interview with CanadianSME Small Business Magazine Mo highlighted the significant advancements in deepfake technology, which now allow for highresolution, real-time face swapping and voice synthesis that are almost indistinguishable from real videos. He discussed the dangerous potential of deepfakes to manipulate public opinion and undermine democratic processes, citing examples from the United States and Slovakia. Mo emphasized the importance of AIpowered detection tools and the need for a combination of technological solutions, regulatory measures, and public education to mitigate the risks associated with deepfakes, particularly in the context of elections Mo Dhaliwal, an entrepreneur and business strategist, has spent over two decades shaping movements that promote inclusivity and break cultural barriers His tech career began in Silicon Valley as a software developer leveraging open source technologies for major brands
Mo Dhaliwal, an entrepreneur and business strategist, has spent over two decades shaping movements that promote inclusivity and break cultural barriers His tech career began in Silicon Valley as a software developer leveraging open source technologies for major brands
After honing his skills in brand development and creative strategy for major Canadian brands in 2011, Mo founded Skyrocket, an agile creative agency, where he serves as the Director of Strategy. Day-to-day, Mo continues to come up with high-level business solutions for a global roster of clients and oversee the development team working to create cutting-edge apps and digital experiences
Under Mo’s guidance, Skyrocket has successfully delivered over 70 brands, 100 web properties and dozens of technologically complex projects, including a sport recruiting web app for Scout Zoo, an online reading environment for Simbi, a cryptocurrency exchange brand strategy for IDEX and a digital home base for the medical VR startup Precision OS
Most of all, Mo is passionate about making a real-world impact on fast-growing startups and established organizations alike
ImageCourtesy:depositphotoscom
How has the technology behind deepfakes evolved over the years, and what are the most significant advancements you’ve observed?
Deepfakes, a blend of "deep learning" from artificial intelligence and "fake" utilize AI to produce exceptionally realistic videos, audio, and images that mimic and distort real individuals Deepfakes have followed the evolution of AI weve seen in general Initially, deepfakes were lower resolution, difficult to generate, and easy to spot due to the idiosyncrasies of their models regularly messing up human details such as eyes, lips or the number of fingers on each hand Today, we are able to generate high-resolution deepfakes with real-time face swapping and voice synthesis that is mostly indiscernible from authentic videos of the same people
Could you provide specific examples of how deepfakes have been used to target public figures or influence public opinion in recent times?
Recent events have demonstrated how deepfakes can target public figures and influence public opinion, posing serious threats to the integrity of democratic processes For instance, in the United States, an AI-generated robocall impersonating President Biden discouraged voters from participating in the Democratic Primary in New Hampshire, directly attempting to manipulate election outcomes. Another stark example occurred in Slovakia, where a viral deepfake audio clip featured Michal Šimečka of Progressive Slovakia boasting about rigging the 2023 election, leading to significant political fallout and his eventual defeat
In what ways do you foresee deepfakes impacting the upcoming provincial and federal elections in Canada, and how do they threaten the credibility of democratic institutions and processes?
The integrity of democratic institutions hinges on the trust and confidence of the population Deepfakes erode this trust, creating a climate where genuine footage and audio can be dismissed as fabricated, a phenomenon known as the "liar's dividend" This skepticism extends beyond political figures to the institutions themselves, including the media, which traditionally plays a critical role in informing voters As faith in these bodies diminishes, so does civic engagement and voter turnout, weakening the very foundation of the democratic process
Deepfakes are particularly dangerous in a politically polarized environment. By exploiting existing divisions, they can deepen social and political rifts, leading to civil unrest. The tailored nature of these manipulations means they can be used to target specific groups, amplifying fears and prejudices to manipulate electoral outcomes. This capacity to feed and exploit divisions disrupts immediate electoral outcomes and has long-term implications for social cohesion.
What are some of the most effective tools currently available for detecting deepfakes, and how do they work?
AI-powered detection tools, which include AI algorithms, facial landmark analysis, temporal consistency checks, and multimodal detection, are key in identifying manipulated media These tools analyze videos and images to uncover patterns that are present in generative media Major firms such as Microsoft, Amazon, and Google, through initiatives like the AI Elections Accord, are at the forefront of developing these technologies They focus on real-time detection and sharing information on emerging threats to combat deceptive AI use effectively. Unfortunately, these tools face limitations, such as difficulty in detecting new, unseen samples and vulnerability to adversarial attacks, which pose challenges to their effectiveness and widespread implementation
What strategies and regulatory measures would you recommend for organizations and governments to mitigate the risks associated with deepfakes, especially in the context of elections?
To mitigate the risks associated with deepfakes, a combination of technological solutions, regulatory frameworks, and public education is essential Governments need to enforce strict regulations on the creation and dissemination of AI-generated content, requiring disclosure when images or videos are altered. In addition, developing public awareness campaigns about the nature and dangers of deepfakes can help the electorate become more critical of the media they consume Perhaps, in partnership with the tech giants, the government can work on the establishment of encryption-based certification systems to authenticate media without that, millions are left to their own devices in deciding whether or not a message they have received is legitimate
ImageCourtesy:Canva
Insights from
Empowering Health Decisions: Dr. Jennie Christensen
Dr Jennie Christensen, Founder & CEO of TrichAnalytics Laboratory, shared her journey and insights on Theio Vitality Hair Analysis in a recent interview with CanadianSME Small Business Magazine Drawing from over 20 years of research on diet and metal exposure in wildlife and humans, Jennie developed this cutting-edge technology to provide a detailed blueprint of an individual's nutritional health. Inspired by her personal health challenges and academic journey, Jennie emphasized the importance of resilience and leveraging available resources for female entrepreneurs. She also highlighted the significant benefits of Theio Vitality Hair Analysis for Canadians, empowering them to make informed decisions about their nutritional health and overall well-being.
If every person’s hair tells a story, Jennie’s story begins earlier than most When she was six years old, she was diagnosed with a chemical imbalance disorder called trichotillomania (an obsession to pull out one’s own hair) Despite the challenges of living with this disorder, she did not let it deter her from starting university at age 16, pursuing her passion for environmental health, and eventually completing her Master’s degree and Doctorate in Toxicology
Driven by curiosity and a desire to find solutions for environmental health challenges, she spent two decades studying how animals respond to the nutrients and toxins in their environment Could we measure these changes to their diets and health in a fast and non-invasive way? Such a technique would, in theory, allow us to track the health of wildlife with incredible precision and even respond proactively to environmental threats such as pollutants in rivers and the food they eat.
Referring to her own acute knowledge of hair and its keen ability to store information about the body, she began experimenting with it and realized that hair was the key As a strand of hair grows, blood nourishes its root where elements are absorbed into the keratin structure of the hair Through this process, hair strands record elemental changes occurring in the blood, including dietary and toxicological information Using her extensive experience with laser technology, she was then able to create a snapshot of an organism’s health at any given time
With her success in studying wildlife, it was a natural progression for Jennie to delve into the realm of human health Thus in 2015, she was granted permission to analyze the 170-year old hair and nail samples of two members of the historic Franklin expedition (a British voyage of the Arctic in 1845) Her results were enlightening and challenged the long-held theory of the cause of their deaths It was a result of these projects and her strong faith and belief in herself and her work with laser technology and its farreaching potential in the realm of environmental and nutritional health that solidified her decision to leave the work of environmental consulting and open her own laboratory. It is not a coincidence that she named it TrichAnalytics; trich being the Greek word for hair.
Jennie and her team developed an analytical method and algorithm to identify the ideal portion of the hair that best reveals the elemental composition of the body The analysis requires incredibly precise laser technology called Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry LA-ICP-MS for short This method is certified by the Canadian Association of Laboratory Accreditation (CALA), making TrichAnalytics the only accredited laboratory in the world that analyzes hair in this way. It is this unique method of analysis and its potential to help improve human nutritional health that inspired the creation of Theío Vitality. Theío Vitality is the Nutritional Division of TrichAnalytics Laboratory
Can you explain how Theio Vitality Hair Analysis provides a detailed blueprint of an individual's nutritional health and what inspired you to develop this cutting-edge technology?
For over 20 years, my research on diet and metal exposure in wildlife and humans has utilized hair as a non-invasive monitoring tool, revealing its potential to archive dietary information Hair is effective because the sulfur in it binds with elements from the blood entering the follicle, locking in dietary data Inspired by tracking grizzly bears' diets and mercury exposure, I adapted this method for humans Theio Vitality Hair Analysis uses lasers and mass spectrometry to analyze single hair strands, providing insights into nutritional health, potential deficiencies, and inadvertent toxic metal exposure.
Having started your academic journey at such a young age and faced personal health challenges, how have these experiences shaped your approach to environmental health and the development of your business?
Living with trichotillomania since age 6 shaped my unique approach to environmental health and business development The psychological impact of my condition drew me to animals and wildlife, who never judged me I ultimately discovered the fascinating science of hair during my PhD in toxicology Realizing hair's potential to reveal dietary and metal exposure information turned my obsession into a positive acceptance of my condition This resilience was crucial in navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship and achieving success with hair science and chemistry at Theio Vitality
What are the most significant benefits that Canadians can gain from Theio Vitality Hair Analysis, and how does it empower them to make informed decisions about their nutritional health?
Theio Vitality Hair Analysis offers Canadians significant benefits by revealing nutritional deficiencies and potential metal exposures Our technology uniquely extracts detailed information from hair, enabling individuals to make informed decisions about their diet and lifestyle Benefits include identifying deficiencies, detecting mercury exposure from diet and lead exposure from water pipes or old buildings. It also confirms if your diet provides all necessary nutrients and verifies supplement absorption. Empowering individuals with this knowledge allows them to make proactive changes to improve their nutritional health and overall well-being
Looking ahead, what key trends do you foresee in health and wellness for 2024 and beyond, and how is Theio Vitality planning to evolve with these trends?
Looking ahead, key trends in health and wellness for 2024 and beyond include a focus on preventative medicine, managing health amidst limited access to doctors, and addressing environmental and global health
Based on your experience, what are your top tips for female entrepreneurs navigating the volatile business environment of health and wellness technology?
For female entrepreneurs navigating the health and wellness technology sector, leveraging available resources and support systems is crucial Utilize government grants such as IRAP and CanExport, which provide valuable assistance for STEM entrepreneurs, particularly female-owned and operated Believing in yourself is paramount, as is seeking help from friends, family, colleagues, and the community success is rarely achieved alone Be prepared, both financially and psychologically, for the journey to take longer and be harder than expected Try to tune into what I call “the invisible world of opportunity” – opportunities are everywhere, and some of the greatest ones were not in my business plan! Lastly, I preferred to bootstrap to maintain control and flexibility It was really hard and financially painful at times, but in the long run, it has really paid off
crises There's a growing demand for non-invasive sampling, personalized nutrition, and plant-based diets, particularly with an aging population seeking better health control Theio Vitality Hair Analysis aligns with these trends by providing a convenient, noninvasive method to monitor nutritional status This empowers individuals to make informed health decisions, fostering greater self-management and preventative care.
Good health and working limbs are a blessing that most of us take for granted, but for those who face such challenges, what about them? This one simple question has a very complex answer because life isn’t just about living; sometimes, it becomes a matter of survival To help such individuals, one business leader and her company have risen on a mission to change people's lives with the help of Creative assistive technology. Lianna Genovese, founder and CEO of ImaginAble Solutions, is committed to making that happen
She set off on her adventure in 2018 after meeting Elissa, a woman with Cerebral Palsy who had a passion for art but was unable to hold a paintbrush anymore due to limited mobility in her hands This experience prompted Lianna to develop Guided Hands™, a tool that aids individuals with restricted dexterity in restoring their ability to carry out everyday activities A firm dedicated to enhancing accessibility and promoting inclusion, ImaginAble Solutions was founded on this revolutionary technology
Creating a Barrier-Free Future
In fact, ImaginAble Solutionss humanitarian mission is to create technology to help individuals with impairments lead better lives The company ' s flagship product, Guided Hands™, is an assistive technology that assists those with restricted hand movement in writing, painting, and utilizing touchscreen devices This invention has been lifechanging for users like Elissa, giving them the courage to pursue their creative passions again
Moreover, Guided Hands™ offers design services to families and healthcare providers to ensure the handpieces fit users ' requirements This user-centric strategy exemplifies ImaginAble Solutions' dedication to delivering unique solutions that impact the lives of those with disabilities. The organization concentrates on accessibility and usability to ensure its products are successful, user-friendly, and flexible, reassuring users and their families
An Effort to Promote Inclusivity
As a significant aspect of operations, Lianna aims to remove obstacles so everyone can participate in communication, leisure, and rehabilitation Disability awareness and social innovation are two causes that the organization actively supports, as is an inclusive work environment From product development to community participation, Lianna's enthusiasm for empowering those with disabilities shines through in all facets of the company ' s operations.
As a matter of fact, ImaginAble Solutions' journey commenced with a single product that was inspired by a single individual However, it has since evolved into a movement that is committed to enhancing accessibility for millions To ensure that its products satisfy the diverse requirements of its consumers, the organization forges partnerships with families, healthcare providers, and disability advocates This collaborative approach not only improves the efficacy of the products but also fosters a supportive community that is united in its pursuit of inclusivity
Transformative Effect
Since its inception in 2019, ImaginAble Solutions has made substantial progress in the field of assistive technology The products of the company have had a significant impact on consumers such as Bella, a young girl with Cerebral Palsy who rediscovered her passion for painting and playing games as a result of Guided Hands™ A testament to the transformative force of Lianna's vision and dedication are stories such as Bella's
Evidently, Lianna's contributions to accessibility have been acknowledged and honoured, demonstrating the significance of her work Her dedication to innovation and social impact has made ImaginAble Solutions a pioneer in assistive technology, motivating others to prioritize accessibility and diversity
To wrap things up, ImaginAble Solutions and Lianna Genovese are leading the fight for greater accessibility for people with impairments Through innovative products like Guided Hands™ and a purpose based on inclusion, the firm is making a concrete impact in the lives of many Guided Hands™ is used by children and adults with disabilities in schools, hospitals and homes across 18 countries Visit their instagram, to know how beautifully they showcase the impact and smiles from their community as they use Guided Hands™
To learn more about Lianna’s achievements through ImaginAble, click here.
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Lianna Genovese is the CEO & Founder of ImaginAble Solutions, a women-led social impact company headquartered in Hamilton, Ontario that specializes in creating assistive technology to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities
At the age of 19, Lianna invented Guided Hands ®, the company ’ s international award-winning assistive device that enables people with limited hand mobility to write, paint, draw and access technology
Lianna holds a Bachelor of Biomedical and Mechanical Engineering from McMaster University where she created the first prototype of Guided Hands ® for her friend living with Cerebral Palsy. Now, at the age of 24, Lianna has sold the product across the world to leading hospitals, rehabilitation centres, schools and families in 18 countries She has also received over 40 awards for her innovation, including the James Dyson Engineering Award, Arthritis Society Canada People’s Choice Award, and named Forbes 30 Under 30 in Toronto
Lianna Genovese
ImageCourtesy:ImaginAbleSolutions
Just as life is more fulfilling when you give back to society, so is true for any business deal out there – profit isn't everything In this vein, Simon Choy launched ConnectAd in 2010 as a new kind of digital marketing agency One with a clear and different goal: to give nonprofit organizations a more robust voice through digital marketing Simon, who started his career in the for-profit sector, saw an opportunity to fill a unique gap in the nonprofit sector Since then, ConnectAd has become a crucial and unparalleled partner for many nonprofits throughout North America, helping them leverage digital marketing to make a meaningful impact
Read on to learn more about Simon’s endeavours and their implications
The Origins of ConnectAd
Interestingly enough, Simon's journey into digital marketing commenced in 2009 with a summer internship that involved managing Google Ads for for-profit businesses. This experience provided him with the expertise and comprehension of the intricacies associated with executing successful digital advertising campaigns During this period, Simon discovered the Google Ad Grant program, a benevolent initiative by Alphabet Inc (formerly Google Inc ) that provides nonprofits with $10,000 per month in free advertising However, he was astonished to have difficulty finding advertising agencies dedicated explicitly to assisting nonprofits in effectively navigating and utilizing the program
As a result, Simon decided to resolve this gap, motivated by his enthusiasm for social enterprise Thus, in 2010, he established ConnectAd to assist nonprofit organizations in maximizing the potential of the Google Ad Grant Since then, ConnectAd has been dedicated to this mission, concentrating solely on nonprofit clients and helping them expand their reach and impact ConnectAd's services have also grown beyond managing Google Ad Grants to becoming a full-service digital marketing agency running omnichannel marketing campaigns for nonprofits.
Upon reflecting on ConnectAd's growth trajectory, Simon shared his thoughts with us: "ConnectAd was founded with the idea that businesses could use their time and energy to benefit the greater good. More than 14 years later, we ' ve built an amazing team with the shared vision to amplify the voices of the people and organizations making the world a better place. Our commitment to nonprofit and social good organizations is stronger than ever "
A Dedication to Charities
As a matter of fact, ConnectAd's stellar record attests to its steadfast commitment to charitable organizations What’s more, the company has supported over five hundred philanthropic organizations applying for and administering Google Ad Grants By focusing on NGOs specifically, ConnectAd has learned about the possibilities and threats of digital marketing to the sector and developed strategies to find continued success for nonprofits Through ConnectAd's effective management of nonprofits' limited advertising budgets and expert leveraging of Google Ad Grants, ConnectAd has generated over $100 million in advertising value and 2 2 billion ad impressions for its clients This magnitude of influence is a testament to the agency ' s dedication and proficiency in its objectives. Aside from the financial value of the Google Ad Grant, nonprofits that collaborate with ConnectAd capitalize on the enhanced visibility and engagement that these advertisements provide
Digital Marketing for Nonprofits: A Modern Approach to Impact
It should be noted that strategic expertise and personalized service are the cornerstones of ConnectAd's success Not only that, but the agency ' s team collaborates closely with each nonprofit client to comprehensively understand their unique objectives and requirements to develop bespoke strategies for successful advertising This collaborative approach guarantees that each campaign is customized to optimize its effectiveness, increasing the organization's visibility, engagement, and supporters backing for its mission.
After reviewing ConnectAd's track record, If you work for a nonprofit or sit on the board of a nonprofit and want to distill what the primary benefit of collaborating with ConnectAd is, it's that the agency can create measurable results from navigating the intricacies of high-impact digital marketing campaigns, including with the Google Ad Grant Even though online advertising campaigns may appear daunting, ConnectAd's proficiency ensures that nonprofits can concentrate on their primary objectives while the agency manages the complexities of ad campaign administration As such, this encompasses the entire process end-to-end, from developing a strategy, establishing metrics, segmenting audiences and messaging, developing ads, and launching campaigns, to monitoring results, optimizing performance and providing analytics and strategic recommendations for future campaigns.
A Legacy of Amplification
Under the able guidance of Simon Choy, ConnectAd has evolved from a solitary endeavour to a prominent player in the nonprofit digital marketing sector The success of ConnectAd is not solely defined by its remarkable growth; it is also established by the tangible effects it has created for the organizations it works with
ConnectAd's dedication to nonprofit organizations remains unwavering as it anticipates the future The company and its people are committed to delivering clients the highest quality of service and measurable results by continuously adapting, innovating, and listening to its clients ConnectAd is a dependable partner for nonprofits and dedicated to maximizing impact and improving the digital presence of nonprofits by leveraging the power of digital marketing
You can learn more about ConnectAd’s solutions and services by clicking here.
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Times are changing, and so is the way we do business; thus, the relevance of IT can not be overstated This begs the critical question: How is it achieved, and who are the best partners for this? The answer is simple: through robust integration of IT within the business infrastructure and strategy One business leader that helps small businesses with innovative IT support is Green Bee 3 Since its inception by Vittorio Romani, Green Bee 3 has evolved into Toronto’s top IT supplier for small companies Thus, in an era dominated by digital complexities, Green Bee 3 is steadfast in its commitment to offering affordable solutions that simplify operations and bolster security Read on to learn how Green Bee 3 is changing the IT services paradigm within Ontario
IT Solutions That Are Truly Comprehensive
As a matter of fact, Green Bee 3 offers a comprehensive suite of managed IT services tailored to the unique needs of small enterprises Hence, these services enable clients to access cutting-edge tech without the burden of maintenance From network administration to cloud computing, Green Bee 3's focus on streamlining processes allows company owners to concentrate on their core business
What’s more, Green Bee's primary feature is a full range of managed IT services, including everything from regular maintenance to complex IT strategies This preventative method guarantees that companies encounter few disruptions and maximize their efficiency With Green Bee 3 taking care of the technical intricacies, customers can concentrate on development and innovation, knowing that their IT infrastructure is being handled by experienced individuals
Vittorio Romani
President / Founder of Green Bee 3
Cutting-edge Cybersecurity Methods
We all know that cybersecurity is critical for organizations of all sizes in the current digital era Green Bee 3 addresses this vital need by offering comprehensive cybersecurity services designed to safeguard clients from the constantly changing hazards of cybercrime In fact, the organization provides customized security solutions encompassing a wide range of services, such as employee training and security audits, as well as threat detection and response
And that’s just the tip of the iceberg Green Bee 3's cybersecurity services are comprehensive, encompassing all facets of digital security Plus, the company ' s specialists collaborate closely with clients to identify vulnerabilities and implement effective countermeasures This practical approach not only mitigates risks but also instructs clients on optimal procedures, thereby guaranteeing a more secure digital environment Thanks to Green Bee 3, businesses can operate with assurance, knowing that their critical systems and sensitive data are safeguarded from cyber threats
Tailored Support for Each Client
What’s Green Bee 3's USP? It’s personalized customer care, which sets it apart from other IT service providers. What’s more, Green Bee values longterm relationships more than immediate financial gain Working closely with each customer to identify their specific requirements and craft individualized solutions, Vittorio Romani and his team are vested in their success
Moreover, the personal touch is one way Green Bee 3 shows its dedication to its customers Whether you need help with a technical problem or some strategic counsel, the company ' s crew is here 24/7 to help Through active participation, customers feel appreciated and supported, encouraging trust and sustainable partnerships A key component of Green Bee 3's business model is a dedication to its customer's success, which fosters long-lasting partnerships that benefit both parties.
Promoting the Expansion of Businesses
It should be noted that the range of services offered by Green Bee 3 goes beyond only cybersecurity and IT management. As part of its comprehensive approach to IT management, the firm provides cloud computing, data backup and recovery, and voice-over IP services These services aim to improve operational efficiency, cut expenses, and bolster company growth In fact, small businesses can access affordable, enterprise-level IT solutions via Green Bee 3's expertise Customers are set up for success in the digital world for the long haul because of the company ' s scalable services, which allow them to adapt to changing demands and market circumstances
To sum up, small businesses in Southern Ontario can rely on Green Bee 3 As such, the company is committed to assisting companies in navigating the challenges of the digital era and realizing their full potential This is shown by its comprehensive IT solutions, cutting-edge cybersecurity measures, and steadfast dedication to individualized customer care
“Our focus is to offer responsive, reliable, and professional IT services to all small businesses, while supporting our local communities and creating the greatest place to work says Vittorio Romani, President & Founder of Green Bee 3.”
Check out Green Bee’s official website here for solutions and services.
CanadianSME Magazine is a valuable treasure trove of entrepreneurial knowledge Click here to subscribe to our monthly editions for updates on Canadian businesses Follow our handle @canadian sme on X to remain updated on all business trends and developments
