CanadianSME Small Business Magazine - September 2024 Edition by CanadianSME

CANADIANSME

DearValuedReaders,

AsSeptemberarriveswithitswarmhues,we’redelightedtoshare thelatesteditionofCanadianSMESmallBusinessMagazine.This month’scontentisthoughtfullydesignedtoaddresstheneeds andaspirationsofSMEsandemergingentrepreneursinCanada, offeringablendofinsights,practicaladvice,andinspiration.

Thefocusofthiseditionis"Innovation&Technology"Weexamine thisdynamicfieldfromvariousperspectives,includingan insightfulanalysisofhowAIisreshapingdigitalmarketingand otheremergingtrends We'vealsopartneredwithleading industryvoicestobringyouthought-provokingarticles,suchas PeterTilton,ChiefDigitalOfficerofPersonalandCommercial BankingatRBC,discussingTheFinancialConfidenceParadox:A CloserLookatCanadians’MoneyHabits,andanin-depthlookat howVisionBoxInc.isspearheadingtheAIrevolutionwith unparalleledexpertise

Interviewsareattheheartofthisedition,shiningalighton diverseindustrysectors FromTaraMilburn’smissiontoredefine corporateresponsibilitytoinsightsfromKatelynDaniellonThe PowerofZero-PartyData,thesestoriesprovidevaluable takeaways.AspecialhighlightisourBusinessWomanofthe Month,Dr SarahSaska,whoispioneeringinclusiveand accessiblepracticesintechandbeyond Herjourney,markedby determinationandvision,issuretoinspireall.

FurtherdemonstratingourcommitmenttoSMEs,we'rethrilledto announcetheCanadianSMESmallBusinessSummit2024,setfor October24th,2024 Theeventwillfocuson“FuelingCanadian SMBswithDigitalTransformation,Inclusion,andAdaptability”We encourageyoutotakeadvantageofthisgoldenopportunityto learn,network,andgrow Registerhere:https://bitly/3Zk73sO

Ourmissionremainsclear:tobeyourtrustedpartneronthe journeyofgrowth,helpingyounavigatethetwistsandturnsof entrepreneurship Wearedeeplygratefulforyourcontinued supportandeagerlyinviteyoutostayengagedandsubscribefor moreenrichingcontent.

Toinnovation,resilience,andafuturefullofpossibilities,

WarmRegards, ShaikKhaleeluddin(SK)

wwwcanadiansmeca info@canadiansmeca canadiansme

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ISSN2562-0657(Online)

PublishedbyCmarketingInc 2800SkymarkAvenue,Suite203, Mississauga,ON Canada L4W5A6

ThecontentsinCanadianSMEMagazinearefor informationalpurposesonly NeitherCmarketingInc,the publishersnoranyofitspartners,employeesoraffiliates acceptanyliabilitywhatsoeverforanydirector consequentiallossarisingfromanyuseofitscontents

IN THIS ISSUE

The Financial Confidence Paradox: A Closer Look at Canadians’ Money Habits

31 24 51 29 42

Top 5 Tech Tools for Small Businesses in 2024

5 Must-Have Retail Apps for Canadian SMEs

The Effort Heuristic "Show your work" - your grade 4 math teacher

Canada’s rental revolution leverages AI

Supporting the Success of Hispanic Immigrants in Canada

How to Empower Female Leadership in Your Organization

Women in the Workplace: Discovering Hidden Talent: Allison Grodd’s Unique Hiring Strategy for Luxury Brands

Pioneering the Way in Procurement with ProcurePro Consulting

Guiding Startups To Success with Kasm Consulting

Jill Button:

Kira Kelsie:

IN THIS ISSUE

EthicalSwag:TaraMilburn’s MissiontoRedefine CorporateResponsibility

FromRockStarto DigitalMarketingMaestro: JasonHunt'sJourneywith MergedMedia

Innovative Water Solutions for a Sustainable Future with Tom Spillane of Vivreau

Looking Ahead: How Canadian SMEs Are Hiring and Integrating Immigrants

VisionBox Inc.: Leading the AI Revolution with Unparalleled Expertise

Transforming Businesses with Independent ERP Consulting: Insights from Sam Gupta

Redefining House Cleaning: The Home Spritz Approach to Quality and Fair Wages

DisruptingTechnologyfor Posteritywiththe AIExpertandFuturistSteve Brown

KeyFactorsinDBPension PlanManagement:Jared Mickall’sAnalysis

Empowering Ontario’s Entrepreneurs: Perspectives from

Nina Tangri & Claudia Krywiak

ACloserLookat Canadians’MoneyHabits

–75%saytheyhavestrongfinancialhabits,yet 73%admittoactionsoverthelastyearthatcould behurtingtheirfinancialwellbeing–

ByPeterTilton,ChiefDigitalOfficer, PersonalandCommercialBankingatRBC

It's a common refrain that strong financial habits are crucial at every stage of life This is particularly true for small business owners who juggle the demands of running a business with managing their own personal finances Many of us might feel that we ’ re confident enough with our day-to-day finances However, a recent RBC study conducted by Angus Reid has found a peculiar paradox among Canadians While a significant 75% of respondents believe they possess good financial habits, with 62% rating their habits as above average compared to their friends and family, the data tells a different story

This paradox is especially relevant for small business owners, who, despite their confidence, may find their financial skills tested by the dual responsibilities of managing business and personal finances.

The Numbers Don't Lie

The study found that 38% of respondents haven't set financial goals and 37% have neglected financial planning This is like building a house without blueprints! Even more worrisome, 34% of poll respondents admitted they even failed to track their own expenses

So, are many Canadians inadvertently turning a blind eye to their personal finances? It seems so.

Many Canadians are likely managing their money without a compass, leaving them vulnerable to the unpredictable waves of economic change, such as higher cost of living expenses This is cause for concern as there is a gap between perceived confidence and actions when it comes to Canadians’ financial habits

The poll revealed that time constraints are a common issue in managing finances, with 39% of Canadians feeling too pressed for time to focus on their finances, a sentiment that is relatable to many, including business owners and entrepreneurs In the daily grind of our personal and professional lives, financial planning often gets relegated to the back burner and almost forgotten

However, with robust financial habits and the support of digital financial apps and tools, not only can we be better equipped to weather economic downturns, but we can also live happier lives

Boosting confidence with digital financial tools

The study found that a majority of respondents (55%) aren’t always confident in their financial decisions Digital financial apps and tools, can be a game-changer for those who may lack confidence in our own financial management skills.

Setting financial goals and implementing good financial habits can seem daunting and time-consuming at first, but it’s important to remember that Canadians are not alone in this journey. Digital tools are designed to simplify the process. They can automate savings, eliminate the need for manual calculations in budgeting, and even project future cash flow.

These financial tools can remove some of the monotony associated with money management For example, RBC’s NOMI suite of capabilities are designed to provide insights, tips, and nudges that can guide Canadians towards better financial decisions This, in turn, can boost confidence and alleviate financial stress NOMI Find & Save, one of these capabilities, uses predictive technology to find and save money you might not even realize you have Since its inception in 2017, it has helped clients put aside more than $6 5 billion into savings, averaging about $495 per month per user Business account holders at RBC can also access NOMI to track spending and gain insights to make informed financial decisions

The study also revealed that Canadians are more likely to use AI to assist with their overall wellbeing and daily activities. However, many may be reaping the benefits of AI-driven financial apps and tools without even realizing it!

The Wellbeing Boost of Good Financial Habits

Besides the obvious financial progress one can make with proper habits, there’s another key benefit: our health and wellbeing

The study showed that Canadians are acutely aware of the positive impact that good financial habits can have on their overall wellbeing, with a significant majority (81%) acknowledging this connection

Good financial habits, like budgeting and saving on a regular basis, are not just about wealth accumulation; they're a cornerstone for our overall wellbeing, especially for those of us steering the ship of a small business They can also help with the following:

Reduce Stress: Financial habits can lead to peace of mind and feeling in control, reducing the kind of stress that keeps you up at night.

Better Decision Making: With a clear understanding of our financial position, we can make strategic decisions that align with their business goals, not just immediate financial needs

Enjoying Life: Financial freedom, even in small doses, allows for more enjoyment of life's moments, whether it's taking a vacation or simply not worrying about the next bill

From Paradox to Prosperity

The survey results highlight a critical need for financial education and the strategic use of technology. For entrepreneurs, digital financial tools can transform the gap between confidence and action into a bridge towards financial prosperity

As many of us know, financial wellness isn’t just about making the right moves but ensuring those moves are informed, strategic, and most importantly, consistent As the financial landscape continues to evolve, embracing these tools and habits isn't just good practice; its essential for navigating the complexities of life with confidence and peace of mind

PeterTilton,ChiefDigitalOfficer,PersonalandCommercialBankingatRBC

Peter Tilton is the Chief Digital Officer, Personal & Commercial Banking (P&CB) for RBC In this role Peter is responsible for helping to drive RBC’s shift to a more technology-enabled, digitally-driven bank More specifically, he is responsible for identifying and capitalizing on ways to leverage digital to further position RBC as a global leader in digital banking Peter has oversight of building the framework to drive the convergence of digital channels with sales, service, and advisor platforms. Peter is also responsible for direct client experiences across mobile, online, tablet, wearables including banking, direct investing, wallet, and rewards and business solutions

Prior to joining RBC in 2016, Peter was Head of Digital Banking for Australia & New Zealand Banking Group Ltd (ANZ Bank) Peter’s previous roles at ANZ included leading the Analytics & Insights, ATMs, Foreign Exchange, International Banking and International Payments functions

Peter has a Computer Science and Education Degree from the University of Melbourne and his Master’s in Human Resources Development from Queensland University of Technology.

Peter lives in Toronto, Ontario with his wife and daughter

Empowering Ontario’s Entrepreneurs: Perspectives from Hon. Nina Tangri & Claudia Krywiak

In a recent interview with CanadianSME Small Business Magazine, Nina Tangri, Associate Minister of Small Business, and Claudia Krywiak, President & CEO of the Ontario Centre of Innovation, shared their insights on supporting small businesses and driving innovation across Ontario Drawing from her extensive entrepreneurial background, Nina discussed how her hands-on experience as a former business owner influences her approach to policy-making, ensuring that decisions are made with the needs of entrepreneurs in mind. Claudia highlighted the significant milestones achieved by OCI, emphasizing their commitment to advancing cutting-edge technologies and fostering collaborations that position Ontario as a leader in innovation Both leaders underscored the importance of resilience, passion, and tapping into available resources for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make a meaningful impact in their fields

Hon.NinaTangri AssociateMinister ofSmallBusiness

TheHonourableNinaTangriwaselectedtothe LegislativeAssemblyofOntarioin2018astheMemberof ProvincialParliamentrepresentingtheridingof Mississauga Streetsville NinaTangriisalsoOntario’s AssociateMinisterofSmallBusiness

InJune2019,NinawasappointedParliamentary AssistanttotheMinisterofEconomicDevelopment,Job Creation,andTrade In2021,sheservedastheMinisterof SmallBusinessandRedTapeReductionandinMarch 2023,shewastheAssociateMinisterofHousing

ImageCourtesy:HonNinaTangri&ClaudiaKrywiak

ShehasalsochairedtheStandingCommitteeonSocialPolicyand servedasamemberoftheStandingCommitteeonJusticePolicy, theStandingCommitteeonGovernmentAgencies,andthe StandingCommitteeonPublicAccounts Professionally,Ninaisan entrepreneurandsmallbusinessownerwithover35yearsof experienceininsuranceandfinance

NinaTangriispassionateaboutbringingcommunitiestogether andworkingwithindividuals,businesses,andorganizationsto learnhowthegovernmentcanmakeOntariothebestplacetolive, work,invest,andraiseafamily Ninabelieveswhencommunities prosper,Ontarioprospers.

ClaudiaKrywiak President&CEOofthe OntarioCentreofInnovation

Dr ClaudiaKrywiakisPresidentandCEOatOntarioCentreof Innovation(OCI),anot-for-profitorganizationthatworkswith industry,government,andacademiatoacceleratethe commercializationandadoptionofnewtechnologies

SincejoiningOCIin2011,Dr Krywiakhaschampionedinnovationas akeydriverofcompetitiveness,productivity,andeconomic growth.Shehasledthedevelopmentanddeploymentoflargescalestrategicinitiativesthatbroughttogethermultiplelevelsof government,post-secondaryinstitutions,anchorfirms,andstartupstofuelgrowthinemergingtechnologyareas,including artificialintelligence,autonomousandelectricvehicles,5Gand nextgenerationnetworks,cybersecurity,andcleantechnologies.

PriortojoiningOCI,Dr KrywiakheldthepositionofVicePresident, BusinessDevelopmentatMitacs,anationalresearchorganization thatfundsresearchandtrainingprograms

Nina, as Ontario’s Associate Minister of Small Business and with your extensive background as an entrepreneur, how has your experience influenced your approach to policy-making and advocacy for small businesses?

As a former business owner, I know firsthand the challenges that come with starting and scaling a business I was CEO of my own insurance brokerage for over 35 years, and I am grateful to have had that journey Now, as Ontario’s Associate Minister of Small Business, I can bring my lived experience to the cabinet table As decisions are being made, I am always thinking about the entrepreneurs those decisions are going to affect I believe it is our job as a government to ensure Ontario remains the best place to live, raise a family, and start a business.

Claudia, as the President and CEO of the Ontario Centre of Innovation, you have been instrumental in promoting innovation across various sectors. Could you share some of the key milestones and achievements OCI has reached under your leadership?

Over the past year, we ' ve made some incredible strides at OCI Together with the Ontario government and our industry partners, we invested $124 million into various projects focused on technology development, commercialization, and adoption This effort supported over 500 SMEs across Ontario, creating and retaining over 6,200 jobs, generating $361 million in new sales revenue, and attracting $717 million in private sector follow-on investment. A couple of initiatives really stand out for me. First, the Digitalization Competence Centre, in partnership with the province, which is all about helping Ontario SMEs embrace digital transformation We offer education, coaching, and support to help businesses develop and implement their own Digital Modernization Plans Plus, through the

Technology Demonstration Program, we ' re helping companies adopt new equipment and processes to stay competitive Another key initiative is the Critical Industrial Technologies program This program is driving innovation in sectors like mining, advanced manufacturing, construction, and agri-food We're focused on helping SMEs understand the value of critical technologies, speeding up the development of Made-in-Ontario solutions, and making sure these innovations are integrated across industries These milestones are just a glimpse of how we ' re working to keep Ontario at the forefront of innovation

Claudia, OCI has been involved in advancing technologies like AI, autonomous vehicles, and clean technologies. What do you see as the most promising innovation trends in Ontario, and how is OCI supporting their development and commercialization?

Generative AI is one of the most exciting innovation trends of our lifetime It's driving an incredible pace of technological advancement and is quickly being integrated by Ontario’s innovators into a wide range of applications from enterprise software and chatbots to creating ad campaigns, deploying autonomous vehicles, and even accelerating drug discovery The possibilities are truly endless

Another area thats really promising is the future of automotive and mobility. Were seeing a rapid shift towards connected, autonomous, and electric vehicles, which is set to transform how we think about transportation and Ontario is leading the charge!

Biotech and Medtech are also areas where we ' re seeing groundbreaking Made-inOntario innovations. From personalized medicine to advanced diagnostics and cutting-edge medical devices, these technologies are revolutionizing healthcare and improving lives. The investments that we’re making through Ontario’s Life Sciences Innovation Fund are paving the way for significant advancements in how we treat and prevent diseases. At OCI, we ' re deeply committed to supporting these trends. We're not just watching these innovations unfold we ' re actively helping to drive them. Whether it's through funding, connecting startups with industry leaders, or providing resources to bring these technologies to market, we ' re here to ensure that Ontario remains at the forefront of innovation.

Nina, during your tenure, what has been one of the most impactful pieces of legislation or policy changes you have been involved in that has significantly benefited small businesses in Ontario?

I have been fortunate enough to have been involved in several key policy changes over my tenure I am very proud of our government’s recent investments made in our 2024 budget We’ve made a total investment of over $13 million over the next two years in our Starter Company Plus program Additionally, weve invested over $4 5 million over two years in our Summer Company program These actions are going to deliver more resources and opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners across Ontario.

Claudia, collaboration is often crucial in innovation. Can you provide examples of successful partnerships between OCI and other organizations or industries that have led to significant technological advancements?

Collaboration is key to driving innovation, and one of the best examples I can share is the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN) This is a partnership between OCI, the Ontario government, and industry, and it's really the cornerstone of our efforts in the automotive and mobility sector By bringing together Ontario’s strengths in automotive, manufacturing, technology, and mining, OVIN creates a powerful ecosystem Start-ups, SMEs, and global leaders can access a wealth of resources, expertise, and opportunities.

Through collaborations with all levels of government, postsecondary institutions, and industry partners, OVIN is making big strides in the automotive and mobility sectors It's all about building a future with safer, cleaner, and more efficient transportation, and these partnerships are at the heart of those advancements

Nina, Ontario has a diverse and vibrant business community. What steps are being taken to ensure that businesses from all sectors and regions of the province have access to the resources and support they need to thrive?

As a government, we are creating the conditions for our aspiring business leaders and small business owners to thrive By lowering taxes, reducing electricity costs, and cutting red tape, we ’ ve delivered an estimated $8 billion in cost savings and support for Ontario employers this year alone, with $3 7 billion directly impacting small businesses This helps businesses generate more funds that can be allocated to hiring more staff, research and development, cutting-edge technologies, tools, and innovations. We have also provided funding to networks through our 17 Regional Innovation Centres, and 47 Small Business Enterprise Centres These networks offer seminars, workshops, and training in addition to support on intellectual property (IP) and funding to help businesses increase their global footprint and diversify their revenue streams In November 2022, we launched a new virtual Digitalization Competence Centre (DCC) in partnership with the Ontario Centre of Innovation through a $10 million investment The DCC provides small businesses with training and support for emerging equipment and processes

Looking forward, what are your top priorities as Ontario’s Associate Minister of Small Business, and what new initiatives or programs can we expect to see to support small business development in the province further?

Under the leadership of Ontario’s Premier, Doug Ford, our top priority will continue to be creating an environment for businesses to thrive This means not just starting and operating but scaling up too Shortly, we hope to announce a small business success strategy which will aim to be a roadmap to success for the future

To wrap up Claudia, what advice would both of you give to aspiring small business entrepreneurs looking to make a significant impact in their fields?

My advice would be to really tap into Ontario’s innovation ecosystem Work with organizations like OCI to access business support programs and connect with potential collaborators, investors, and customers Our business development team is dedicated to helping companies innovate, grow, and succeed, so don't hesitate to reach out and leverage the resources available to you at https://www oc-innovation ca/

To wrap up Nina, what advice would both of you give to aspiring small business entrepreneurs looking to make a significant impact in their fields?

My advice would be to follow your passion and intuition It is important to love what you do, and if you have done that, you are already half of the way there It’s also important to steady your course Entrepreneurship will have many challenges, but it’s important to be resilient Your entrepreneurial spirit is Ontarios spirit, and your businesses will contribute greatly to our economy and province as a whole. I’d also suggest small business owners seek out resources through their local Small Business Enterprise Centers and Ontario ca/business You’re not alone on your journey to establishing a successful business

DisruptingTechnologyfor Posteritywiththe AIExpertandFuturist SteveBrown

AI expert, Entrepreneur, Futurist & Author

Since its inception, AI has disrupted every industry as we know it Although its full potential remains untapped, experts are now trying to gauge its future impact and utility. One such leading figure in AI transformation is Steve Brown, who is not just a futurist and AI specialist but also a renowned keynote speaker His unique approach to AI, shaped by decades of experience in high-tech and digital transformation, provides insightful analysis of how AI can streamline operations, elevate customer experience, boost productivity, and improve workforce capacities Fortune 500 firms, including Disney, Nike, JP Morgan, Canadian mining company Cameco, and AI startups, seek his expertise He has presented engaging keynotes on five continents, spanning 17 countries and over 100 cities His AI workshops are designed to help companies accelerate their AI transformation journeys

II Experience and Contextual Background

It is worth noting that Steve Brown's career in AI and IT is marked by notable accomplishments and leadership roles at leading corporations After almost 30 years in high-tech, Steve spent 25 years at Intel including as Chief Evangelist and futurist in Intel Labs Following his time at Intel, he oversaw the marketing, communications, and public relations teams as Senior Director of DeepMind, Google's artificial intelligence research centre in London. He was also DeepMind’s in-house futurist, creating imaginative new ideas on the future possibilities of leading-edge artificial intelligence.

In fact, Steve excels beyond thought leadership, as he has co-founded many tech firms. He is a co-founder of the Provenance Chain Network which provides supply chain security and transparency to businesses, notably the United States Space Force. He is also a co-founder of Jump Co, an AI startup providing summarization and cognitive digital twin services to a range of industries. These practical applications of his expertise demonstrate the real-world impact of his work.

Effects on Media Coverage and International Brands

If you really want to assess Steve's success – begin by analyzing the kind of clientele he has served. Some of these include wellknown companies like Comcast, Hasbro, and Audi, as well as nongovernmental organizations, trade shows, and government entities worldwide Media giants, including the BBC, CNN, Bloomberg, ABC, NBC, Forbes, Wired, and The Wall Street Journal, have sought his insights With keynote speeches on artificial intelligence and digital transformation, he has enthralled audiences of all sizes from 10 to 10,000, and Steve specialized in AI briefings for boards and the Csuite Inspiring audiences to embrace advancements powered by artificial intelligence, his talks are renowned for being wellinformed, engaging, and memorable

As a public speaker, Steve's ability to break down complex AI concepts into manageable chunks has him in great demand. Among the many subjects covered in his keynote speeches are AI assistants and copilots, generative AI, best-known methods for AI transformation, and the redesigning of consumer experiences via the use of AI. Moreover, he discusses the future of education, how AI will transform healthcare, and the wider social effects of the Intelligence Era, drawing attention to the advantages and disadvantages of cutting-edge AI technology.

II Accelerating the Evolution of AI

Steve's consultancy services and AI workshops are dedicated to assisting organizations in their AI transformation endeavours He utilizes his extensive experience to guide organizations on the development of effective AI strategies His consultation encompasses a wide range of business operations, such as operations, sales and marketing, research and development, and customer service Steve empowers organizations to realize the complete potential of digital transformation by employing machine learning, generative AI, autonomous AI assistants, and process augmentation

As an AI futurist, Steve foresees the revolutionary effects of AI on every service, product, and user interface Not only are his thoughts useful for the here and now, they also provide light on how AI will affect companies, the economy, and society in the future

At the end of the day, Steve Brown's work shows the revolutionary potential of AI His knowledge, influence, and foresight are shaping the future of AI and its applications in many fields He has been an influential person in the world of AI thanks to his dedication to advancing AI research and teaching people about its possibilities, and he has encouraged many to welcome the Intelligence Era with open arms

Intrigued to learn more about the AI Mogul Steve? Click here to navigate to his official website.

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

Steve Brown is a leading thinker on AI, generative AI, autonomous agents, digital transformation, the future of work, and how advances in AI will shape the future of business, education, and society He draws upon decades of experience in artificial intelligence and high tech to advise companies on winning AI transformation strategies. After a 25-year career at Intel, Steve co- founded The Provenance Chain Network, then worked at DeepMind, Google's AI research lab in London He now advises AI startups, is a BCG Luminary, and speaks at events around the globe on the future of AI Steve has delivered keynotes in over 70 cities worldwide, spanning 17 countries and 6 continents His clients include Nike, JP Morgan, Samsung, Comcast, Audi, PepsiCo, and Disney. Steve has been featured on CNN, BBC, Bloomberg, Forbes, and The Wall Street Journal, and his book, "The Innovation Ultimatum: How Six Strategic Technologies Will Reshape Every Business in the 2020s" is a how-to guide on innovation and digital transformation He holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Micro-Electronic Systems Engineering from Manchester University and lives in Portland, Oregon.

How often do you see people change their entire career path to a completely different trajectory? Well, this article today is about one such maverick of an entrepreneurial leader who is not only a successful expert in his field but an inspiration with a flair for technology –Jason Hunt In fact, his journey from frontman of a rock and roll band to co-founder of Merged Media is a testament to the transformative power of pursuing one ' s passion Jason’s exceptional journey is characterized by a combination of creativity, entrepreneurial drive, and a deep understanding of the empowering act of identifying one ' s true talents His entrepreneurial spirit and his subsequent success serve as a stencil for all aspiring business leaders

From Rock Star to Digital Marketing Maestro:

Journey with Merged Media Jason Hunt's

Discovering a New Passion

Evidently, Jason started his career in the music industry as the lead singer of a rock band And though he enjoyed the exhilaration of performing and creating music, it was the marketing aspect of the music industry that truly captivated him His journey of promoting the band, shaping its image, and engaging with fans was not just a job but a passion This crucial realization caused a shift in his perspective, moving him from solely creating music to gaining a deep understanding of how to market it effectively.

In retrospect, his experiences in the music industry provided a solid foundation for his future endeavours This one aspect helped him derive immense satisfaction from the intricate tactics required to engage with an audience and the artistic ingenuity necessary to establish a distinctive brand The success of these marketing efforts demonstrated to him the immense potential of a career in digital marketing, laying the foundation for what would eventually evolve into Merged Media

Taking the Entrepreneurial Leap A New Era in Media Fusion

Essentially, Jason's choice to venture into the world of marketing stemmed from a deep longing for freedom and a sharp ability to spot potential in the online realm He desired to have complete control over his career, making all the decisions and enjoying the fruits of his labour Entrepreneurship presented him with an opportunity to create something from scratch, embodying his principles and aspirations

That’s not all; he found a major gap in the internet advertising sector Due to inexperience or the dizzying rate of technological change, many companies failed miserably at internet marketing Jason dreamed of an advertising agency that would work hand in hand with clients to learn their individual narratives and provide first-rate services Thus, Merged Media was born – offering deeper insights into his clients' brands rather than superficial advertising solutions was his goal

Under Jason's tenure as CEO, the firm has evolved into a genuine companion on its clients' paths When working with clients, Merged Media aims to integrate all aspects of its digital marketing strategy With this comprehensive strategy, clients are able to stand out and get real results

There’s no denying that Merged Media takes great delight in being more than simply a marketing agency Dedicated digital marketing departments are formed by actual individuals who get to know their clients' companies and function as an extension of the client's team. By working closely together, they ensure that the tactics they create are completely in line with the client's objectives and principles.

Ultimately, at its very core, Merged Media is devoted to being dependable, honest, and diligent Clients rely on its ability to give them honest advice that works for them and delivers on its promises Just as Jason Hunt's transformation from rock band vocalist to digital marketing maestro reflects his passion and devotion, the agency ' s purpose is to assist clients in reaching their business objectives.

Take a tour of Jason’s brainchild Merged Media’s official site here

About the Author

Since 2007, Jason has been immersed in the world of digital marketing, leveraging social media to cultivate a fanbase for his Japanese rock band His expertise in monetizing online traffic has since led him to become a Cofounder of Merged Media - a full-service Canadian digital marketing agency providing services in Social Media Marketing, Google Advertising, Email Marketing, Website Optimization and SEO Additionally, he is the host of The Drop The Mic Podcast and has been a featured speaker at marketing conferences worldwide, such as Ad World, LeadsCon and The Affiliate Summit In 2022, he released his debut book, 'Drop The Mic Marketing: How to Find Your Social Media Voice', which has become a go-to guide for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Business Woman of the Month

Dr.SarahSaska:

Pioneering Inclusive and Accessible Practices in Tech and Beyond

CanadianSME Small Business Magazine is proud to celebrate Dr. Sarah Saska's remarkable achievements by recognizing her as the Business Woman of the Month in this edition.

Transitioning from Academia to Industry Leadership

Dr Saska has emerged as a leading advocate for inclusive and accessible design and business practices, both in Canada and globally. As the co-founder and CEO of Feminuity, she has guided the organization small but mighty in partnering with startups and Fortune 500 companies alike With a unique blend of feminism and ingenuity, Dr Saska dares to reimagine "business as usual " Some may call it DEI; others see it as futureproofing and smart business practice

Dr Saska's journey began in academia, where her passion for exploring complex ideas and challenging established norms led her to Western University for her Ph D There, she conducted pioneering doctoral research at the intersection of equity, technology, and innovation, underscoring the critical need for ethical and inclusive design This realization motivated her to create Feminuity

Before her doctoral research, Dr. Saska earned an M.A. from the University of Ottawa and a B.A.H. from Queen’s University, further solidifying her expertise Her involvement in the Enhanced Assess, Acknowledge, Act (EAAA) Sexual Assault Resistance Education Program, now known as the Flip the Script program, highlights her practical experience and dedication to promoting social justice and equality

Creating Workplaces That Foster Inclusivity

and Progressive Innovation

Under Dr Saska’s leadership, Feminuity has become a model for businesses that prioritize progressive innovation and inclusivity From emerging digital firms to well-established Fortune 500 brands, Feminuity collaborates with clients committed to creating inclusive products and cultures.

Dr Saska's tireless work has earned significant recognition She has been named one of the Top 100 Most Powerful Women in Canada by the Women's Executive Network three times and was featured in Culture Amp's “Diversity and Inclusion Leaders You Should Know” list in 2018 and 2019 Her impact extends beyond the corporate sector, as evidenced by her inclusion in the 2022 Emerging Leaders list by Peak and the “10 Diversity Leaders Transforming the Workplace and Beyond” list by Create and Cultivate

Impact and Acknowledgment

Dr Saska's influence reaches far beyond the tech industry She has been a featured speaker at human rights and technology conferences worldwide and has contributed to leading publications such as TEDx, CBC’s The National, Fast Company, and The New York Times Her advisory roles at Western University's School for Advanced Studies in the Arts and Humanities and the Morrissette Institute for Entrepreneurship demonstrate her commitment to shaping future leaders and policies Additionally, her work with Wen-Do Women's Self-Defence and the Equality Fund further highlights her dedication to promoting social justice and gender equality.

Dr Saska has set a high standard for inclusive leadership, blending theoretical rigor with practical implementation Those who know her will tell you that she leads with her values, stands firm on what matters, and always seeks to build bridges Much of her success is rooted in her belief that being hard on the issues while soft on people is key In an industry often marked by conflict and tension, she knows that how you deliver your message is just as important as the message itself

What drives Dr. Saska is the vision of a future where everyone is empowered by the products and services they use every day. Is it a tall order? Yes. But it is also something that can be achieved with focused intention and diverse perspectives at the table. Indeed, the most valuable perspective is often the one you don’t have.

Explore More:

Visit Sarah’s official platform by checking out www.feminuity.org.

CanadianSME Magazine is a valuable resource for entrepreneurial insights. Click here to subscribe to our monthly editions for updates on Canadian businesses. Follow our handle @canadian sme on X to stay updated on all business trends and developments.

About the Dr. Sarah Saska

Dr. Sarah Saska is the CEO of Feminuity, a global strategy firm that partners with startups through Fortune 500 companies to design inclusive products and company cultures Before launching Feminuity, Sarah conducted groundbreaking doctoral research that highlighted the urgent need for ethical and equitable design in emerging technologies and innovations.

In addition to leading Feminuity, she serves as an advisor to NASA's Astrophysics Division, where she critically evaluates the inclusivity efforts embedded in emerging scientific proposals Sarah's contributions have earned her recognition on the Women’s Executive Network’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women in Canada list multiple times in 2015, 2017, and 2021. She was also honored as one of The Bay Street Bull’s Women of the Year for 2022

An in-demand TEDx speaker, Sarah has been featured in prominent media outlets like CBC's The National and Fast Company for her straightforward and actionable approach to her work.

Modern cash registers have come a long way in the last decade, going from cumbersome equipment that produced stacks of paper to sleek, mobile-friendly gadgets that can process sales anywhere. Retailers can now manage their whole shop effectively using only a smartphone or tablet, thanks to today's advanced retail technology The ability to handle transactions at a storefront or on the go at pop-ups, markets, fairs, or festivals is made possible with powerful point-of-sale software like Shopify POS, plus a few crucial retail apps The ability to work from almost anywhere at any time is a huge boon to retail company management But which shopping apps really help with regular chores? Canadian SMEs can save time and money with these five essential retail applications

So, without further ado, let’s check out our selection of the top 5 retail apps for businesses of all sizes out there:

For merchants in the small and medium markets, RetailGraph is a must-have tool Retail invoicing, inventory management, accounting, GST filing, and a point-of-sale system are all part of this app ' s extensive retail management capabilities It becomes much simpler to oversee company operations remotely when retailers can get real-time information from several shop locations Users can evaluate their company ' s progress and make smart choices with the help of the many reports at their disposal When it comes to streamlining operations, RetailGraph is a vital software for retail company owners because of its extensive functionality and adaptability. Learn more about their services here.

Busy Accounting is a comprehensive accounting and management solution suitable for a variety of company industries, including FMCG, retail, manufacturing, trade, and distribution It can manage inventories across several locations, handle multiple currencies, and process orders Busy Accounting enables company owners to make educated financial choices by providing a comprehensive picture of their accounts and payroll This program is especially useful for firms with complicated accounting demands since it ensures that financial transactions are handled swiftly and properly Click here to learn more

RetailGraph: Comprehensive Retail Management Software

Busy Accounting: Integrated Financial Management

Shopify POS: Seamless Sales Integration

Shopify POS is a leading solution for merchants looking to connect instore and online sales effectively. This program guarantees that items, orders, and customer information are synced across online and physical sales channels. Retailers may benefit from precise information and simple connectivity with appropriate hardware to ease shop administration The mobile retail app enables company owners to manage their operations from anywhere, offering the necessary flexibility in today's fast-paced retail market Shopify POS's ability to integrate sales channels makes it a must-have tool for contemporary companies For more information regarding their services, click here

The Premier Solution for Business Management: TallyPrime

The robust accounting, inventory control, reporting, and payroll capabilities of TallyPrime have made it a go-to solution for company management Because of its low price and extensive features, more than 2 million enterprises throughout the world utilize it TallyPrime is great for small and medium-sized organizations since it has a lot of capabilities that other accounting software doesn't Effortless management of financial operations, inventory, and payroll allows retailers to run their businesses smoothly A favourite among company managers, the software has powerful features and an intuitive design Here is the link to learn more about this software

A Revolution in Retail Management: LightSpeed

Finally, for SMBs in Canada that wish to improve their retail operations, these five applications are essential: RetailGraph Software, Busy Accounting, Shopify POS, TallyPrime, and LightSpeed. From invoicing and accounting to stock management and sales integration, each software deals with a distinct facet of store administration By using these products, retailers can cut the time and effort spent on repetitive tasks

LightSpeed OnSite's features extend beyond only accepting payments Inventory management, customer monitoring, and sales analysis are just a few of the day-to-day tasks that this program is designed to handle for retail businesses LightSpeed facilitates the analysis of store performance for retailers, allowing them to make data-driven choices that enhance business results Its all-inclusive set of features covers every angle of retail administration, giving owners the data and command they need to thrive Any store that wants to maximize its operations should download LightSpeed because of its comprehensive approach to retail management. Take a tour of their official website here.

ImageCourtesy:EthicalSwag

In an insightful conversation with CanadianSME Small Business Magazine, Tara Milburn, President and CEO of Ethical Swag, shared the experiences that shaped her journey to founding the company. With a background in professional sports, tech start-ups, and foreign investment, Tara witnessed both the positive and negative shifts in global business practices This inspired her to create Ethical Swag, a company dedicated to leveraging business as a force for good Tara’s commitment to social and ecological sustainability is evident in every aspect of Ethical Swag’s operations, from their carefully chosen supply chain partners to their dedication to offering high-quality, ethically sourced products Her belief that meaningful change is achieved through thoughtful decisions is the driving force behind the company ' s mission and growth.

Ethical Swag: Tara Milburn’s

Mission to Redefine Corporate Responsibility

President and CEO at Ethical Swag

Tara's career spans over three decades, where she developed skills in foreign direct investment, sales, marketing, business development, partnerships, strategic planning, communications, and customer service. Her professional journey includes government roles and private sector positions, encompassing everything from startups to international enterprise A notable highlight in her career was as an initial team member that successfully brought the 2010 Olympic Winter Games to Vancouver, BC, and she was also involved in the NBA's first international expansion into Canada

Tara founded Ethical Swag in 2010 but didn't quit her full-time corporate job until after turning 50, when her kids were older and she could dedicate more time and energy to the venture She embarked on a journey to redefine what success looks like in her company Tara believes that business has created many of the challenges we face globally, and has an important role to play in fixing it. Ethical Swag serves as Tara's testament to the idea that significant problems can be addressed in business, even within a mature industry like promotional products.

Can you share the journey that led you to found Ethical Swag and how your experiences in professional sports, tech start-ups, and foreign investment influenced your vision for the company?

Over my 30 years in business, I've seen the world change in remarkable ways, but I've also witnessed a troubling decline in others I started Ethical Swag because I believe business can be a powerful tool to address the challenges facing our society and planet Too often, we shy away from tackling big problems because they seem overwhelming But I’m convinced that if we focus on what’s immediately possible, rather than chasing perfection, we can create real change from the ground up Ethical Swag is my way of showing that meaningful impact is achievable one thoughtful decision at a time

How does Ethical Swag integrate the principles of social and ecological sustainability into its supply chain, and why is this focus so crucial for the corporate merchandise industry today?

Tackling major issues like sustainability can feel daunting, but I believe that progress starts with each of us doing what’s within our control At Ethical Swag, we apply this mindset to our supply chain by supporting suppliers who prioritize transparency and are committed to improving

their environmental and social impact While we may not control every aspect of our suppliers' operations, we can certainly influence them by choosing to partner with those who align with our values By harnessing the collective buying power of our clients, Ethical Swag channels resources into supply chains that are actively working towards a more sustainable future This approach not only drives change but also sets a new standard in the corporate merchandise industry, proving that every decision, no matter how small, can contribute to a larger, positive impact.

What challenges have you faced in promoting sustainable promotional products, and how do you ensure that your customers understand the importance of ethical sourcing?

The promotional products industry has often operated under a “fast and cheap” mindset, which has set a standard that we believe needs to change At Ethical Swag, we ’ ve taken a different approach Sustainability isn’t just an add-on for us; it’s the foundation of everything we do From the start, weve focused on partnering with clients and suppliers who are genuinely committed to creating a better world. When we receive requests for the cheapest products, we respectfully decline, because we believe in offering quality that aligns with your values Our aim isn’t to convince or convert anyone we ’ re here to collaborate with organizations that already value ethical sourcing We work hard to make it easy for our clients to access trusted, sustainable products, and we take pride in being a reliable partner who views business through a lens of long-term impact, not short-term gain

As a Certified B Corporation, how does Ethical Swag balance profitability with its mission to put people and the planet first, and what impact has this had on your business growth and customer relationships?

As a Certified B Corporation, Ethical Swags mission to prioritize people and the planet is central to everything we do and it’s not just a marketing tactic When companies put their logo on a product, they’re making a statement about their values We believe that sustainability and ethical sourcing should be part of that statement Our mission is why we exist, and it’s been a catalyst for our growth, not a barrier We’re growing because our clients value our different approach not because its trendy, but because it’s how we show up every day This approach has strengthened our relationships with customers who share our values, demonstrating that you can be profitable while staying true to what matters. It’s about building a brand that reflects the kind of world we all want to create together

Given your extensive experience in business and volunteer work, what advice would you offer to other entrepreneurs who want to align their business goals with a strong sense of purpose and social responsibility?

My advice to entrepreneurs looking to align their business goals with purpose and social responsibility is to surround yourself with like-minded people Building a network of supportive peers can make all the difference on your journey I can’t count the number of times I was told I was wrong, but my years of experience and confidence in my vision kept me moving forward For younger entrepreneurs, it can be challenging to stick to your values when the prevailing advice is often to grow fast and exit at all costs It can feel like swimming against the current, especially in the early days But remember, your vision and purpose are what set you apart Stay true to them, even when it’s difficult. The right community will support you, and in the long run, that’s what will lead to sustainable success not just for your business, but for the impact you want to make

Canada’s rental revolution leverages AI

Innovation jumped by leaps and bounds with the advent of Artificial Intelligence Technological evolution has experienced a dramatic reset as evidenced by AI being leveraged to revolutionize workflows, industries, and problem-solving When OpenAI was introduced to the world, disruptors and innovators from around the globe decided to hop on the bandwagon and find creative, more efficient ways to solve problems using this very technology One such venture decided to use the life-changing capability of AI to potentially improve Canada’s housing crisis

An AI lead qualifier software for multifamily housing and leasing professionals, QuickCasa helps property managers manage their inbound queries and qualify leads using conversational AI Creating efficiencies in the renting process to help Canadians get into their dream homes faster, the software chats with leads on various online listing sites including Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace, Zumper etc , and qualifies them for the properties that might be best suited for them “Imagine somebody throwing a hundred apples at you How many of them would you catch? And how many of those that you caught were the good ones? That’s what leasing agents deal with all the time With QuickCasa, we solve that problem,” shares Stephen McCabe, CEO of QuickCasa. The software goes beyond custom lead qualification and helps property managers in inventory management, syndication and lead quality tracking “The property managers boost their rental listings through paid ads on Kijiji, Zumper and Rentals ca and other platforms While they do get their inboxes filled with leads, there’s no way of tracking the quality of those leads depending on the source With QuickCasa, they can get lead quality insights and accordingly plan their marketing expenditure on these platforms,” says McCabe

The idea first stemmed from the desire to leverage AI to solve an impending challenge at hand McCabe, along with his two Co-Founders, Pat Wilken and Dayna Voisin, realized that Canada’s housing crisis is not only a demandsupply issue but also alludes to the burden on leasing managers and professionals who tackle innumerable requests and leads on rental properties in an already packed day. This leads to a slower time frame to get Canadians into homes “Our software does cut down lead time and that’s great, but that’s not all,” adds McCabe With the amount of data in hand, McCabe believes that QuickCasa has the potential to forecast housing demand in the future to meet the gap between the kind of house in demand and the kind of house that should be built The software also acknowledges and embraces diversity through their multilingual feature, “We add value by creating equitability, so that anyone in Canada, who is not a native speaker, can also interact in their own language,” says McCabe

Creating a platform that is purpose-built for the housing and rental market, this made-inCanada technology is cleverly engineered “While we leverage OpenAI right now, we are not completely reliant on it What’s proprietary is our custom cognitive AI technology and our data storage techniques that make us unique,” says McCabe. QuickCasa’s cognitive awareness element makes conversations with their technology more personable and human-like while their data storage is tailored to handle infinite amounts of information, without confusing the Artificial Intelligence in place “Our aim, in the future, is to host our own Large Language Model (LLM) as they are becoming much more economical to run these days,” shares McCabe Another Unique Selling Proposition (USP) that QuickCasa offers is creating a platform that helps businesses achieve their goals “If a prospective tenant says that they’re interested next year, our technology is smart to cross-sell another product that might be ready next year It’s dynamic enough to push towards a set business goal, instead of only facilitating personable conversations,” shares McCabe

When it comes to the user experience of the platform, on the side of the renters, the software will feel like a leasing specialist answering any queries through email However, the backend of this software is where the magic happens Property managers and leasing professionals have access to a dashboard that gives them information about the rental inquiry and the score that AI gives that prospect based on their conversation When asked how the prospect quality is assessed, McCabe had a very interesting response, “Our cognitive AI keeps evolving with every use It usually analyzes conversations based on snarky or short responses, lack/low responsiveness rate and picks up on those natural conversation cues to give a score ” That’s not all - the managers can also update their available rental properties and see the channel that the prospect has used to contact them, helping managers plan their marketing efforts better

Understanding the need to create efficiencies to fuel the future housing demand, QuickCasa is excited about the potential of this software to create waves in the housing industry. “Right now, we are a lead qualifier, but we want to fill that ‘lead to lease’ journey and expand our breadth through microsites. Our idea is that these microsites will help you get even more data to support buyer profiles and understand the customer funnel. All this aggregated data will also help property managers understand the kind of demand in the market,” says McCabe. Hitting 3,000 units managed just this year, well on their path to scale, McCabe and his team are ready to take QuickCasa to the next level, creating a visionary tool for tomorrow’s housing landscape.

In the fast-paced world of small businesses, using the appropriate technology can be a game changer Small businesses, those with limited financial and human resources, must use technology to increase efficiency and production Unlike big corporations, small businesses can readily embrace new technology, allowing them to simplify operations and remain competitive Here’s a list of 5 critical technology tools that can help your small company ' s operations today.

Effective communication is essential for every organization, and Slack has emerged as the preferred platform for internal communication From stand-ups to brief check-ins and informal talks, Slack allows team members to coordinate seamlessly It is also effective for client communication since many clients already use Slack or are eager to join The option to switch between multiple Slack organizations enables effective handling of client business Furthermore, the various professional forums on Slack provide good networking chances for small enterprises, making it an essential tool for current company operations Click here to navigate to Slack’s official site and learn more about the software

Slack: Streamlined Communications

Trello: A Simple Solution for Project Management

For companies working on projects of medium to large scale, especially those involving remote teams or freelancers, Trello is an essential tool Users can organize work and expedite communication using this project management tool's built-in boards, lists, and cards The visual nature of Trello's UI makes it simple to monitor development, delegate work, and establish due dates Time is saved, and productivity is enhanced with Trello since it reduces the need for continual email exchanges Trello is an essential tool for project management since it helps businesses make complicated tasks more clear and organized Take a tour of Trello’s website to discover more about their services

ClickUp: All-Inclusive Project Management

Businesses can benefit from ClickUp's pipeline monitoring capabilities since it is a flexible project management tool It makes it simpler to keep on top of things and manage people, which in turn makes it easier to meet deadlines and accomplish project objectives Better workflow management is possible with the help of ClickUp's many capabilities, such as task assignment, time monitoring, and document sharing Many small businesses have found that ClickUp is the most comprehensive and user-friendly solution among many project management systems Its versatility in accommodating various project management techniques makes it an invaluable asset to any company For in-depth knowledge about the software, click the given link on Clickup’s official website

Streamline Your Email Marketing Using MailChimp

Email marketing software like MailChimp is a godsend for local companies This platform makes it easy to create, send, and analyze email campaigns MailChimp's intuitive UI and editable templates make it easy to create polished email campaigns Further, the platform offers comprehensive analytics, which aids organizations in comprehending the efficacy of their initiatives and implementing data-driven enhancements If your company is short on marketing personnel, MailChimp can step in and take care of your email marketing To learn more about MailChimp’s packages, click here

PandaDoc: Expert Proposal Writing Made Easy

The ability to craft persuasive proposals is often a deciding factor in commercial transactions Proposal software like PandaDoc makes it easy for small businesses to generate polished documents in no time The platform's configurable templates and simplified procedures allow users to concentrate on content rather than formatting By streamlining the proposal development process, PandaDoc guarantees that firms consistently present their most favourable position throughout negotiations Using PandaDoc, small businesses can boost their chances of acquiring new customers and projects by making it easier to create high-quality proposals To discover more about PandaDoc’s service packages and rates, click the link below

In essence, small businesses that want to streamline their operations and boost efficiency must have these five digital tools: Slack, Trello, ClickUp, Mailchimp, and PandaDoc. From marketing and proposal development to communication and project management, each tool caters to a different facet of company administration By using these tools regularly, small companies can enhance efficiency, cut down on wasted time, and increase output

VisionBox Inc.: Leading the AI Revolution with Unparalleled Expertise

In an era where technology is reshaping industries at an unprecedented pace, VisionBox Inc emerges as a trailblazer in the AI sector Renowned for its exceptional ability to bring AI projects to fruition, VisionBox boasts a unique achievement every AI initiative they undertake successfully reaches the production stage, a distinction achieved by only a fraction of AI ventures globally This remarkable success is a testament to their team of visionary data scientists and engineers, who excel in developing and deploying AI solutions across diverse infrastructures.

Comprehensive Full-Cycle Development

What distinguishes VisionBox from its peers is its commitment to excellence in every phase of software development. From the initial spark of an idea through market research, strategic planning, and meticulous development, VisionBox offers an endto-end service that ensures a seamless journey for its clients This holistic approach not only simplifies the development process but also empowers businesses to achieve their goals with precision and efficiency

By providing unwavering support from concept to product launch, VisionBox ensures that each project they undertake is equipped to succeed Their comprehensive methodology addresses every aspect of development user experience, functionality, and scalability providing businesses with the confidence needed to navigate the complexities of modern technology landscapes.

Cutting-Edge Technology Consulting

VisionBox’s technology consulting services are designed to propel businesses forward. By aligning the most advanced technological solutions with business objectives, they help companies not only to survive but to thrive in today’s competitive market Through thorough analysis and bespoke recommendations, VisionBox enables organizations to streamline operations, enhance performance, and unlock new growth avenues

With a deep understanding of machine learning, big data, and data science, VisionBox is adept at solving complex business challenges and uncovering hidden opportunities within vast datasets Their data analytics services empower clients to make informed, strategic decisions that drive performance and growth.

"At VisionBox Inc , we believe in pushing the boundaries of what's possible with AI. Our commitment to driving innovation and delivering reliable AI solutions ensures that our clients are not only ahead of the curve but also fully equipped to transform their industries," says Drashti Patel, Founder & CEO of VisionBox Inc.

Pioneering AI Solutions

VisionBox’s diverse portfolio of AI services spans computer vision, natural language processing (NLP), and robotics Their AI-powered computer vision technology facilitates real-time analysis of digital images and videos, offering businesses crucial insights that optimize image and video processing tasks This capability is indispensable for companies aiming to enhance efficiency and reduce operational costs

In NLP, VisionBox is at the forefront, enabling clients to accelerate projects through the precise collection and annotation of text and audio datasets This expertise guarantees rapid, accurate outcomes that advance NLP initiatives Additionally, their proficiency in robotics allows businesses to seamlessly integrate automated systems that manage specific tasks with minimal human oversight, enhancing productivity and innovation

A Legacy of Success and Innovation

VisionBox’s success is built on a foundation of relentless innovation and a commitment to excellence Their portfolio includes numerous successful AI projects that have transformed industries and set new standards for technological advancement VisionBox’s team of experts consistently delivers solutions that are not only innovative but also practical and effective, ensuring that businesses can harness the full power of AI to achieve their objectives

In summary, VisionBox Inc is a pioneering force in the AI industry, celebrated for its consistent track record of delivering groundbreaking AI solutions With a dedicated team and a full spectrum of services, VisionBox empowers businesses to navigate the complexities of AI with confidence, driving growth and transforming industries.

Learn more about VisionBox’s services by visiting their official site here.

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Running a business is tough enough, but mastering marketing strategies, digital marketing, and online optimization can feel like a black hole for time, money, and effort That’s where Kasm Consulting comes in, led by Kira Kelsie Under her leadership, Kasm Consulting isn’t just another service provider; it’s a true partner in helping startups grow and scale Kira’s entrepreneurial journey is driven by a deep passion for helping startups navigate the often confusing world of marketing and growth. As the founder and CEO of Kasm Consulting, Kira has dedicated her career to helping founders get traction, offering essential support to startups across various industries

The Spark Behind Kasm Consulting

Kira’s love for entrepreneurship began with a deep appreciation for founders putting their necks on the line for their startups She recognized the unique challenges these budding businesses face limited resources, lack of brand recognition, and fierce competition and saw an opportunity to make a real impact Kira’s vision for Kasm Consulting was clear from the start: to create a marketing firm that goes beyond just offering services She wanted to build a true partnership with startups, providing unwavering support and expertise to help them succeed So much so, that Kasm was featured on Yahoo! Finance in the Top Digital Marketing Agencies in Canada and was listed as a Top Digital Agency for Startup’s Worldwide The vision to fill the gap in startup’s marketing needs with the expertise they deserve without the hefty pricetag led to the creation of Kasm Consulting This unique approach, focused on driving startup success, is what sets Kasm Consulting apart

Filling the Marketing Knowledge Gap

Kira knows that marketing for startups isn’t easy, and staying current with the latest techniques and technologies is crucial. That’s why she pursued and achieved the prestigious title of Certified Digital Marketing Expert, making her the only person in Western Canada to hold this certification This achievement gave her a deep understanding of the technical side of modern marketing and empowered her to use technology to achieve real results

So, what makes Kasm different? Kira’s extensive knowledge of digital marketing allows her to integrate data-driven decision-making and advanced analytics into Kasm’s strategies Her ability to analyze consumer behavior, track campaigns, and optimize strategies ensures that her clients get the most bang for their buck These exceptional technical skills are at the core of Kasm Consulting, making it an essential partner for startups

Partnering with Kasm Consulting means gaining access to a wealth of expertise and a dedicated strategic ally fully committed to your success that gets in the weeds with you. Kira’s exceptional leadership and visionary approach haven’t just propelled individual businesses to great success; they’ve also played a crucial role in creating a thriving and dynamic startup community.

Making a Difference in the Startup World

From day one, Kasm Consulting has been committed to helping startups grow and expand with customized marketing strategies. Kiras dedication to understanding and meeting the unique needs of each client has allowed Kasm to successfully fill a significant gap in the market Specializing in tailored marketing solutions, Kasm helps startups overcome resource limitations and build strong, recognizable brands Kasm Consulting has made a big impact on the startup ecosystem, serving as an expert in residence for over 20 incubators and accelerators across Canada Kasm has helped countless startups in achieving their goals, driving growth, and fostering innovation across different sectors Kiras marketing strategy emphasizes the integration of technology and data, giving her clients the tools and expertise they need to thrive in a competitive environment long-term

For more information about Kasm’s services, click here.

Kira is one of the only Certified Digital Marketing Experts in Western Canada

She is the owner of Kasm Consulting, which specializes in helping startups across Canada grow and scale with marketing

Kasm Consulting is listed among the Top 30 Digital Marketing Agencies for Startups Worldwide and ranked in the Top 10 Digital Marketing Agencies to Work with in Canada by Yahoo Finance

Recently nominated for TechnoPreneur of the Year and Young Entrepreneur of the Year by Canadian Business Magazine, Kira also serves as an expert in residence for over 20 incubators and accelerators across Canada If you ' re looking for a marketing expert, let's connect to discuss your marketing needs

About the Kira Kelsie

Women in the Workplace:

ByDianaPalmerin-Velasco, Senior Director, Future of Work, Canadian Chamber of Commerce

According to the 2024 report, Barely Breaking Ground, from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s Business Data Lab, women have yet to reach parity in employment, especially in management positions If recent trends continue at their present pace, women in Canada won’t reach equal representation until 2129

These findings add to “the great breakup” identified by McKinsey & Company in 2022 and the fact that women are demanding more from work, and are leaving their companies in unprecedented numbers to get it

This is worrying as research has repeatedly shown that having more women in leadership and management roles leads to better business performance So why is this happening, and what can small and medium-sized businesses do to reverse this trend?

The Reasons Behind Women Leaving the Workplace

There are a variety of reasons why women may be leaving the workplace Some cite a lack of opportunity for career advancement or feel as though their voices are not being heard when it comes to decision-making Others cite feeling undervalued or dismissed by their male counterparts and not having access to resources that could help them further their careers Additionally, many women feel that they must work harder than men to achieve success, yet still receive less recognition for their efforts

What Small and Medium Size Businesses Can Do to Reverse the Trend

Small and medium-size businesses can take steps to retain top talent by creating an environment where women feel valued and appreciated and have equal access to career advancement opportunities This starts at the recruitment stage and continues through retention and promotion stages

Recruitment

It’s essential that business owners review their hiring practices with an eye to diversity, equity and inclusion, and ensure that job descriptions do not inadvertently discourage women from applying Businesses can also expand candidate pools by looking beyond traditional recruitment methods such as job boards and networking events and instead actively reach out to diverse communities for potential candidates who may not otherwise consider applying for positions

Retention and Promotion

Creating an inclusive atmosphere within your organization is paramount; this means ensuring that all staff members have equal access to resources, training opportunities and promotions, regardless of gender or other identity-based factors It also means creating spaces where employees can bring up issues or concerns without fear of retribution or dismissal. Finally, businesses should strive to create effective mentoring and sponsorship programs to provide guidance and support for female employees throughout their careers

Next Steps for Businesses Wanting to Empower

Female Leadership

Women are increasingly demanding more from work; they want supportive environments where they can grow professionally without fear of discrimination or stagnation As such, business owners must take steps towards creating inclusive workplaces that recognize and value the contributions of women at all levels if they want to attract top talent and ensure long-term success By applying the tips above and tracking outcomes to identify and resolve any ongoing gaps or challenges, businesses of all sizes can help reverse the concerning women employment trends

To learn more about how to empower female leadership in your organization and gain practical tools to drive change, register for the Canadian Chamber’s Women in Business Summit Series, being held during Gender Equality Week, September 24–26 The Summit’s three 90-minute virtual sessions are packed with insights and actionable strategies to advance gender equality in your organization A certificate of participation will be issued to participants who attend all three sessions

Transforming Businesses with Independent ERP Consulting: Insights from

Founder&CEOofElevatIQ

DuringarecentinterviewwithCanadianSMESmall BusinessMagazine,SamGupta,Founder&CEOofElevatIQ, reflectedonhisjourneyintheERPanddigital transformationspace.Whatbeganasanexplorationof variousindustrieseventuallybroughtSambacktohistrue calling leveraginghisdeepexpertiseinERPand enterprisearchitecturetohelpbusinessesnavigate complextransformations Overtheyears,Sam’sapproach hasevolvedfromchasingtrendstohoninginonhiscore strengths,allowinghimtosuccessfullyguidenumerous ERPprojectsandsharevaluableinsightsonovercoming commonimplementationchallenges

SamGuptahasbeenaERPthoughtleaderinthedigital transformationspacefornearlytwodecades,withthe primaryfocusonfinancialsystemsandERP.Samisrated as#1thoughtleaderintheERPcategoryand#15inthe digitaltransformationcategoryonThinkers360.Heisalso amongthetop100thoughtleadersacrossallcategories. Hehasbeenpartoflargetransformationinitiativesfor fortune-500corporationsbutnowspendshistime consultingwithSMEsasaPrincipalConsultantatElevatIQ Samregularlyspeaksatindustryconferencesand contributeshisexperiencesthroughmanypopularblogs andpublications Healsohostsapodcastcalled WBSRocksfocusedonbusinessgrowththroughdigital transformationandERPwhereheinterviewstop influencersandexecutivesfocusedondigital transformation

With nearly two decades of experience in the digital transformation and ERP space, what initially inspired you to focus on ERP and enterprise architecture, and how has your approach evolved over the years?

ERP and enterprise architecture wasn’t my first choice for building a business I was lured by the shiniest technologies and upcoming trends in the startup ecosystem So after practicing in the ERP and digital transformation space for over a decade, I decided to diverge and focus on other industries, such as real estate, medical device, and payment, which seemed compelling and easier to build at that time

But that was a root awakening, realizing that building a startup requires focusing on core expertise and relationships Pivoting to a completely new industry would mean starting from scratch, wasting the knowledge and relationship equity built over time

Also, market was changing in the ERP and digital transformation space where the implementation and adoption failure rate still exceed over 50% where SMBs end up wasting their hard-earned money over failed implementation as they underestimate the efforts required to be successful with such implementation projects

We have tried several business models over the years, finally honing our focus on independent and vendor-agnostic consulting on business transformation and processes, which has always been our core expertise

It’s almost like one lie needs a thousand more So, a root cause analysis is required to identify candidates of overengineering and a simplification plan, leading to not only simpler technology architecture but also scalable process and data models, ultimately removing unnecessary SG&A and improving profits margins for the companies

You have successfully recovered more than 50 ERP projects with a net savings of over $100 million. Can you share some key strategies or insights that have contributed to these successful recoveries?

One reason why companies get in trouble with these implementations is because of the underappreciation of effort and expertise involved Also, because of the overcommitment of all parties Finally, any successful implementation requires making changes to data and process models, which is generally ignored -- as technology is perceived to be more of a “magic wand ”

We go back to the drawing board by simplifying processes and data models while building consensus on changed workflows. Once the technology-agnostic view of the process and data model is documented along with an agreed enterprise architecture, we find candidates that led to overengineering, which generally leads to even more overengineering and technical backlogs

As the host of the WBSRocks podcast, which ranks highly in the ERP and business transformation categories, how do you select topics and guests that will resonate with your audience and provide value to business leaders?

Our topics are largely driven by anything that touches our space, ranging from eCommerce, ERP, supply chain, digital transformation, and industry 4 0 Most of our guests have gone through several cycles and can discuss transformation stories in depth

Most of our guests are also seasoned business leaders managing businesses over $30M in revenue once they have outgrown the startup and lifestyle stage of the business. These businesses are often run by seasoned investors or private equity companies aiming to grow these businesses to the next financial inflection point We try to stay away from any topics that would not provide substantial insights or educational experiences that our listeners crave

What, in your opinion, are the common challenges businesses face during ERP implementation projects, and how can they overcome them?

The challenges start from the get-go with overcommitment, and underappreciation of expertise required to be successful with these projects. The challenge is also a gap between business and technology teams. You have MBAs who may not have the real technical depth, while technical teams lack the business and domain rationale, crucial for the success of these projects Finally, the biggest challenge is the power struggle, as most of these projects require crossfunctional alignment while our organizational and compensation structures have traditionally been built with a siloed mindset

This misalignment requires a substantial rewiring of the organizational processes and mindset, requiring significant capital, psychological, and effort commitment Also, most organizations are myopic with their focus on their quarterly goals, which is the exact opposite of the mindset required to be successful with these projects

Overcoming these challenges requires planning for the right amount of capital aligned with the long-term crossfunctional goals. It also requires building the right teams and compensation structures that will not only help in starting with these initiatives but also commit for a very long term, especially when things might not go as planned, especially with macroeconomic uncertainty, requiring rethinking of long-term projects.

As a thought leader recognized across various categories, including being the #1 thought leader in the ERP category on Thinkers 360, what advice would you give to companies looking to embark on a digital transformation journey, particularly in selecting and implementing ERP solutions?

I would recommend not following the noise present over the internet in selecting and implementing these systems These initiatives require hiring seasoned experts with several selection and implementation projects under their belt While technology has come a long way, its implementation and adoption are as challenging, if not more

Think of this process as a complete rebuilding of a sports team from playing a solo sport such as Tennis to Baseball It takes several years to change those organizational habits Rushing to implement such changes quickly will only fire back and hurt in ways you would not expect

Supporting the Success of Hispanic Immigrants in Canada

Networking is the backbone of any business entity or an individual's resourcefulness It not only helps maintain strong professional bonds that act as support but also helps solve problems But what happens when an entire organization does that? Well, we are about to find out Connecting Hispanics Corporation, formally known as La Red de Hispanos, was founded by the visionary Raquel Narvajas Rodriguez It is a vibrant community that supports Hispanic immigrants in Canada, playing a crucial role in preserving their culture In fact, La Red de Hispanos has swiftly become an integral part of more than 1,500 members' lives, intending to assist immigrants in advancing their careers and assimilating into Canadian society while preserving their unique cultural identity They support the fundamental principles of inclusivity, respect, and openness while offering a complete package of services to facilitate success and connection via this network.

Facilitating Advancement in One's Career

As a matter of fact, assisting Hispanic immigrants in establishing themselves professionally in Canada is a commitment of La Red de Hispanos. Networking events, coaching, and mentoring programs are just a few of the many services offered by the organization to its members in an effort to boost their professional standing These programs help immigrants get the advice and connections they need to succeed in Canada's competitive employment market by introducing them to seasoned experts and respectable companies What’s more, La Red de Hispanos maintains a list of reliable Hispanic companies so members can get their hands on good services and local firms can stay afloat To ensure quality and dependability, this directory presents a hand-picked list of service providers who have been through a thorough certification procedure

So, not only does the organization aim to support professional growth so Hispanics can succeed in their new surroundings, but La Red de Hispanos assists its members in achieving professional and entrepreneurial success by providing resources and networking opportunities This, in turn, strengthens the individual and diversifies and enriches the Canadian workforce Each member's success is a step towards a more diverse and inclusive Canada, and La Red de Hispanos is proud to play a part in this transformation

Fostering Cultural Connections

Speaking of things beyond professional support, La Red de Hispanos is committed to preserving and promoting Hispanic culture in Canada The group provides a variety of events and forums to honour the Hispanic community's rich traditions, language, and cultural manifestations These events let members interact with one another, exchange experiences, and keep their history alive Cultural preservation is essential to La Red de Hispanos' mission since it ensures that Hispanic immigrants' identities and customs are preserved and cherished

As its members struggle to assimilate into a new culture, La Red de Hispanos provides a welcoming space where they may find support and understanding The group encourages these cultural ties to ensure the Hispanic community stays strong and together even when they're far away from their countries of origin. The conservation of these ties contributes to Canada's cultural variety while strengthening its multicultural fabric and preserving its historical links

Building a Community of Advocacy

The idea that life's good things are supposed to be shared is central to La Red de Hispanos The organization's commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive community for its members reflects this principle La Red de Hispanos members have tons of chances to socialize, meet new people, exchange stories, and grow as a community from coaching sessions to get-togethers that assist members in getting over the isolation of Canadian winters This support is furthered by the organization's robust social media presence, which gives members a way to keep engaged and informed.

Ultimately, La Red de Hispanos’ mission is to empower immigrants and establish meaningful relationships It provides a location where Hispanics can gather, exchange resources, and support one another This supporting network makes members feel connected and secure in their new surroundings It also plays a vital part in their effective integration into Canadian society

Take a tour of the official site of La Red de Hispanos by clicking here.

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Redefining HouseCleaning

The Home Spritz Approa to Quality and Fair Wage

NickRoss,Co-FounderandActingCEOofHomeSpritz,rec satdownwithCanadianSMESmallBusinessMagazinetod theinnovativeconceptbehindhiscleaningmarketplacea howitchallengesthetraditionalcleaningcompanymode explainedthatHomeSpritzwasbornoutofaneedforam reliableandtransparentplatformwherefamiliescandire choosevettedcleaners Healsohighlightedthecompany commitmenttopayingalivingwage,whichnotonlyvalu cleanersbutalsoensuresconsistent,high-qualityservice Additionally,NicksharedthestrategiesHomeSpritzemplo overcomeindustrychallenges,suchashiringtoptalent,a detailedthecompany’splansforexpansionwhilemainta personalizedservice

NickRoss,Co-FounderandActingCEOofHomeSpritz,isa dynamicleaderwithmorethanadecadeofsoftware developmentexperience.Aself-professedtechenthusiast,Nick hashonedhisexpertiseinteamleadershipandcontributedto

NickRoss, Co-Founderand ActingCEOofHomeSpritz

reputableFinTechcompanies His entrepreneurialdriveisevidentinhistrack recordofproductdevelopmentacrossstartups andestablishedenterprises.

What inspired you to create Home Spritz, and how does the concept of a cleaning marketplace differ from traditional cleaning companies?

We established Home Spritz based on our firsthand knowledge that the house cleaning industry was fundamentally flawed. The inspiration behind creating this business stemmed from the need for a trusted, vetted marketplace for house cleaning services one where families can freely browse and select cleaners Unlike traditional companies that dictate cleaner assignments and handle all communication, our platform allows families

to choose from a list of vetted cleaners, reducing the risks associated with hiring through referrals or job boards Additionally, Home Spritz provides cleaners with essential tools to manage their business, such as booking management, scheduling, and payment processing. This support helps cleaners avoid the administrative burdens that often drive them back to traditional companies, enabling them to maintain their independence and build lasting client relationships

Home Spritz is committed to being a living wage employer for its cleaning contractors. Why was this an important decision for you, and how does it impact the quality of service provided?

At Home Spritz, the decision to be a living wage employer is deeply rooted in our commitment to valuing and respecting our cleaning contractors. Cleaners are often underpaid and undervalued, which leads to high turnover and inconsistent service quality Through our personal experiences and conversations with cleaners, we realized that low wages compelled them to constantly seek better opportunities, disrupting the consistency we desired for our clients By offering a living wage, we not only ensure that our cleaners fee valued and respected, but we also foster longterm relationships that contribute to consisten and high-quality service

Our partnerships with the Alberta Living Wage network and Living Wage for Families BC suppo our mission to advocate for fair wages in the industry These collaborations help us actively share and promote the importance of fair pay through social media, attracting clients who value community-oriented businesses This benefits our employees and strengthens client trust and loyalty, ensuring Home Spritz continues to deliver exceptional service.

As a small business leader, what challenges have you faced in establishing Home Spritz, and how have you addressed them to ensure the success and growth of your platform?

Establishing Home Spritz came with its share of challenges, particularly in the hiring process, given the absence of formal training programs and certifications for house cleaners Unlike trades such as electricians, where credentials are clear, the cleaning industry lacks standardized certifications, making it difficult to identify and recruit top talent To overcome this, we focus on hiring the top two percent of cleaners who apply, rigorously selecting individuals based on their experience and communication skills

Experience sets seasoned cleaners apart from novices, and we prioritize this along with excellent communication abilities to foster personal connections with our clients These efforts ensure that our clients receive exceptional service, building trust and strong relationships that are pivotal to our success and growth. By maintaining these high hiring standards, Home Spritz continues to thrive as a platform known for its reliability and quality.

You mentioned plans to expand Home Spritz to additional markets across Canada. What strategies are you employing to scale the business while maintaining the personalized and high-quality service that Home Spritz is known for?

As Home Spritz expands across North America, we ' re committed to maintaining the personalized and highquality service that defines our brand This starts with hiring the top 2% of cleaners in each market individuals with excellent communication, exceptional cleaning skills, and unwavering drive. Enlisting the finest talent streamlines people management, enabling us to oversee more cleaners with fewer customer support personnel.

Efforts are also underway to leverage technology to automate repetitive tasks in our operations, lightening the workload for our customer support team This enables them to focus on pivotal aspects nurturing relationships with customers and cleaners We're revamping our client portal to enhance the customer experience, encouraging direct interaction between cl lasting relationships

Home Spritz also focuses on giving back to the community through initiatives like “Cleanings For a Reason.” Can you share more about the importance of these programs and how they align with your company’s values?

Home Spritz is deeply committed to positively impacting the communities we serve, and our partnership with Cleaning for a Reason is a testament to this dedication We understand the immense challenges cancer patients face, from health concerns to increased stress and financial burdens. By offering free house cleaning services, we aim to alleviate these burdens, creating a healing sanctuary where patients can focus on recovery Our ongoing efforts in Metro Vancouver, Calgary, and Edmonton underscore our dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those battling cancer, aligning with our core values of support and compassion

Key Factors in DB Pension Plan Management:

Jared Mickall’s Analysis

PrincipalofMercer’sWealthbusiness

In a discussion with CanadianSME Small Business Magazine, Jared Mickall, Principal of Mercer’s Wealth business, shed light on the factors that influenced the financial health of DB pension plans during Q2 2024 He highlighted how fluctuations in interest rates and asset returns contributed to the volatility in solvency ratios. Despite these challenges, Jared pointed out that Canadian DB pension plans have maintained their resilience through diversified asset strategies and better alignment between assets and liabilities. He also shared advice for managing future financial challenges, especially for plans that currently enjoy a surplus.

I joined Mercer in 2000 and I'm currently the Wealth practice leader for Mercer's Winnipeg office I'm a pension consultant and actuary (FCIA and FSA) I've also consulted on self-insured long-term disability plans I manage client relationships and consult on the full life-cycle of defined benefit (DB) pension plans, including implementation and design, strategic risk management, funding and sustainability policies, pension plan conversions and plan wind-ups I also communicate all aspects of pension plans to a wide range of audiences, including boards of trustees, pension committees, plan members and regulators

I'm a member of Mercer's Wealth Resource Network on the funding of DB pension plans and Mercer's Manitoba pension legislation team. I have been a presenter for CPBI Manitoba on pension topics.

financial health of DB pension plans during Q2 2024?

The solvency ratio is the ratio of a DB pension plan’s market value of assets to its liabilities and is one measure of the financial health of a defined benefit (DB) pension plan The Mercer Pension Health Pulse (MPHP), a measure that tracks the median solvency ratio of the defined benefit pension plans in Mercer’s pension database, was 118% at March 29, 2024, rose to 123% as at April 30, 2024, slipped to 122% as at May 31, 2024 and declined back to 118% as at June 28, 2024 During the quarter there was volatility in the assets that clients in Mercer’s database have their DB pension assets invested in Also, during the quarter applicable interest rates were volatile, which resulted in volatility in DB liabilities These asset and liability volatilities led to volatile solvency ratios for DB plans in Q2 2024.

Can you elaborate on the impact that positive asset returns from fixed income assets, US equities, and international equities had on maintaining the solvency ratios of DB pension plans?

Each DB pension plans assets will be invested according to its investment policy, which typically includes allocations to asset classes such as Canadian fixed income, Canadian equities and foreign equities In Q2, index returns for Canadian universe fixed income as measured by FTSE Canada Universe was 0 9%; US equities as measured by S&P 500 in Canadian dollars was 5 4%; Global equities as measured by MSCI World in Canadian dollars was 3 9% Positive returns on assets would increase a DB pension plan’s solvency ratio and would improve the MPHP, all else being equal.

How did the negative asset returns from Canadian equities and the increased DB liabilities affect the overall solvency ratios of DB pension plans?

In Q2, index returns for Canadian equities as measured by S&P/TSX Composite was negative 0 5% Negative returns on assets would decrease a DB pension plan’s solvency ratio and would reduce the MPHP, all else being equal

A key assumption that drives the solvency liability of a DB pension plan is the rate of interest used to discount the plan’s expected benefit payments, which are generally paid for the life of each DB pension plan member Due to their long-term nature, DB pension plans are generally focused on the movement of interest rates of Canadian bonds at terms that are well beyond the overnight rate. If applicable interest rates decline, then we would see a positive return on fixed income assets with a similar duration and quality, but we would also see higher DB liabilities In Q2, index returns for Canadian universe fixed income assets as measured by FTSE Canada Universe was 0 9% and for Canadian long-term fixed income assets as measured by FTSE Canada Long Term was 0 2% This resulted in higher DB liabilities, which would decrease a DB pension plan’s solvency ratio and would reduce the MPHP, all else being equal

The report states that the financial health of DB pension plans in Canada remains strong. What factors contribute to this resilience?

DB pension plans’ overall funded positions at the end of the quarter were in a position similar to that at the beginning of the quarter.

In general, DB pension plans have diversified asset mixes with allocations to Canadian fixed income, Canadian equities and foreign equities as well as alternative asset classes such as real estate and infrastructure In addition, many DB pension plans have increased the degree to which the DB assets are aligned with the DB liabilities The combination of the above has contributed to the overall stability in the financial health of Canadian DB plans Q1 to Q2, despite the volatility seen within the quarter

What strategies should DB pension plans consider to manage future financial headwinds, especially those plans currently in a surplus?

DB pension plan sponsors are advised to periodically revisit the risks to be transferred versus those to retained within the pension plan For risks that are retained, it is typical to review the investment strategy where a key consideration is understanding the degree that the DB assets are aligned with the DB liabilities, the degree of mismatch, and the risk/return tradeoffs The role of sustainable investment beliefs has expanded into investment strategy reviews A traditional consideration for transferring the risk would be annuitization

DB pension plan sponsors should also be keen to understand the conclusions of a new report by the Canadian Institute of Actuaries, which examines mortality among Canadians. The report concludes that life expectancy in Canada is generally expected to improve at rates greater than those predominantly used by the pension industry, currently. While living longer may be good news for Canadians, it signals challenges ahead for DB pensions as lifetime pensions may need to be paid for longer, which could mean higher DB liabilities in the range of about 2% to 4%, in general.

For DB pension plans in a surplus, using the surplus to provide for benefit improvements or contribution holidays continue to be valid uses However, the financial impact of surplus usage should be explored and the risk of a future shortfall arising should be understood in advance In addition, creating a buffer for future adverse experience, to the extent permitted, continues to be a valid use of surplus

The Effort Heuristic

"Show

your work" - your grade 4 math teacher

Ben Wise & Darren Chiu Co-FoundersofCaptivate(Authors)

Have you ever noticed how a hand-knitted scarf feels warmer than a mass-produced one, or how a homecooked meal seems tastier than takeout? This is not mere sentimentality at play It's a testament to the Effort Heuristic, a cognitive bias deeply ingrained in our decision-making processes

In essence, the effort heuristic states that we tend to value objects, experiences, and even ideas more highly when we perceive that greater effort has gone into their creation Quite simply, we use effort as a shortcut to indicate quality or value. If you worked really hard on something, it must be good, right? Research has shown this to be true across various situations, from the quality of a poem to a piece of art to many of the physical goods you buy

And if you are trying to demonstrate the value of something - a product, a proposal, or otherwise - the effort heuristic holds great promise for your powers of persuasion

Details & Examples:

By strategically incorporating the effort heuristic into your business practices, you can subtly nudge consumers towards perceiving your products and services as more valuable Here are three tactics to consider:

Transparency and Storytelling:

Loyalty Programs with Tiered Rewards: 1) 2)

Pull back the curtain on your production process Share the stories of the artisans, craftsmen, or engineers behind your products Showcase the meticulous research that goes into your product development Detail the rigorous training your staff goes through Highlighting these stories is a great way to trigger the effort heuristic

The effort heuristic isn’t just about your own effort, but a way to benefit from your customers’ effort too Design a loyalty program that rewards customers based on their level of engagement and effort Offer exclusive perks, early access to new products, or personalized experiences for those who reach higher tiers This incentivizes continued interaction with your brand and reinforces the value of their efforts

Cushion the Blow:

Let’s face it, even if you employ every tactic available, sometimes things don’t turn out the way you hoped and you are the person left explaining the result When this happens (and it happens to everyone at some point), make sure you emphasize all of the effort and hard work that went into the project Even if the project failed, stakeholders will recognize the value of the effort that went into it and judge it more positively

Want to Learn More? Check out these great resources:

For a riveting read, check out some of the original research on the effort heuristic here For something a bit lighter, Cognition Today shares some great examples of how the effort heuristic comes to life in sales and marketing in their article here

This Month's Challenge: The Effort Audit

This month, we challenge you to conduct an "effort audit" of your business practices. Identify areas where you can incorporate the effort heuristic to enhance perceived value. Here are a few questions to get you started:

Could your sales pitch go deeper into the effort your team puts into their work?

Does your marketing share behind-the-scenes glimpses of your production process?

Where does your customer's effort get recognized and rewarded?

Remember, the effort heuristic isn't about deception or manipulation. It's about recognizing the fundamental human tendency to value things that require effort and leveraging that insight to create more meaningful and valuable experiences for your customers.

About the 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

The Power of Zero-Party Data: Insights from Katelyn Daniell

InanenlighteningconversationwithCanadianSMESmall BusinessMagazine,KatelynDaniell,co-founderofPrecision Retail,shedlightontheinspirationbehindlaunchingthe companyandhowitaddressesasignificantgapinthe Canadianmarket PrecisionRetailwasbornfromthe recognitionthattraditionaldatasegmentswereinsufficientfor trulyunderstandingconsumerbehaviour Katelynemphasized theimportanceofzero-partydata,whichisconsent-based andwillinglysharedbycustomers,asagame-changerfor retailers Byfocusingonthistypeofdata,PrecisionRetailoffers auniqueapproachthatgoesbeyondsimpletransaction tracking,allowingretailerstogaindeeperinsightsinto customermotivationsandpreferences,ultimatelyfostering strongercustomerloyaltyandenhancinglifetimevalue

KatelynDaniellisaninnovativeleaderinthedigitalandretail sectors.She’sco-founderofPrecisionRetail,anAI-powered surveytoolwhichrewardscustomersforsharingtheirdatawith retailers,andmplus,anadtechstacksolutionbuiltusinga proprietaryzeropartydataplatform.

Katelynispassionateaboutbuildingretailer-customer relationshipsthroughsustainablevalueexchangesandzeropartydata Thisventureisalreadymakingwavesinthe industrybyenablingretailerstoengagewiththeircustomersin moremeaningfulandimpactfulways

SinceDecember2021,Katelynhasalso beentheco-founderofmplus,whereshe hasplayedacrucialroleinthe company 'sgrowthandsuccess.Her leadershiphasbeeninstrumentalin establishingmplusasakeyplayerinthe digitaladtechmarket

Priortoherentrepreneurialendeavors, KatelynservedastheChiefCommercial OfficeratMCapGroupfromAugust2019 toJuly2020 Shehasextensive experienceatDentsuAegisNetwork where,overfiveandahalfyears,she heldvariouspositions,including CommercialDirector,DigitalInvestment Manager,DigitalInvestmentSupervisor, andDigitalStrategist.Herresponsibilities includedmanagingrevenue diversification,adoptingnewcommercial models,overseeingmediaandadtech supply-sidemanagement,andleading digitalinvestmentformajorretailand CPGbrands

What inspired you to start Precision Retail, and how does it address the gap in purchase data points that retailers in Canada have traditionally struggled to access?

My co-founder and I were inspired to start Precision Retail to address the lack of proactive data segments in the Canadian market Specifically, we saw a significant gap in the availability of zero-party data segments, which is consent-based data that users willingly share with a brand in exchange for an incentive This type of data exchange is not only transparent and based on the customer’s consent but also provides invaluable insights that retailers and brands wouldn’t have access to otherwise

While most retailers and brands have access to first-party data, which captures what customers do on their site such as the purchases they make, their search behaviours, and their journey this data only tells part of the story. Existing MarTech solutions, particularly those focused on post-checkout surveys, often emphasize attribution, helping retailers understand how customers arrived at their website and why they purchased However, they do not delve into why customers choose a specific brand over its competitors or what they might do next

Precision Retail shifts the focus from attribution to understanding deeper consumer motivations and behaviours We aim to uncover what drives customers' shopping habits, their core values, and the psychographic attributes that are essential for brands to know to grow and strengthen loyalty

Precision Retail focuses on integrating zero-party data (0PD) with cart data to create detailed customer segments. Can you explain how this approach differs from traditional first-party data and third-party cookie tracking?

Zero-party data, unlike first-party cookies or third-party cookies, is deliberate, consent-based data that customers willingly share through interactions like our post-checkout surveys The primary purpose of firstparty cookies is to enhance the on-site user experience of a website However, ad tech firms strike relationships with SSPs, DSPs, and Publishers to leverage these cookies for advertising purposes as well While first-party and third-party cookies are valuable to an extent, they are browser-based and ultimately rely on inferring who a user is They also lack deliberate consent from the user to share data for marketing purposes

Zero-party data is self-declared and consent-based, offering insights into customer preferences, behaviors, and motivations that go beyond browser data or basic transactional data. When combined with cart data, 0PD allows retailers to create rich, comprehensive customer segments that can be used to personalize marketing strategies without relying on intrusive tracking methods.

How does Precision Retail’s survey plugin help retailers move from transactional relationships to transformative ones, and what impact does this have on customer loyalty and lifetime value?

Precision Retail’s survey plugin helps retailers transition from transactional relationships to transformative ones by emphasizing the value of rewarding customers for their data By incentivizing customers to share their insights through surveys, retailers can collect rich, self-declared data that goes beyond basic transactions This data allows retailers to deeply understand their customer’s preferences, behaviours, and values

By using these insights to personalize offerings and communications, retailers demonstrate that they genuinely value and understand their customers, fostering a sense of appreciation and trust. This approach not only enhances brand loyalty but also increases customer lifetime value, as customers are more likely to engage repeatedly with a brand that acknowledges and rewards their input

Can you discuss the advantages of using zero-party data in today’s digital marketing landscape, particularly in light of increasing privacy concerns and the decline of third-party cookies?

Zero-party data is becoming increasingly vital in today’s digital marketing landscape, especially as we shift towards the Web 3 0 ecosystem Unlike Web 2 0, where tech giants offer services in exchange for data that is often exploited without transparency, Web 3 0 represents a new era of the Internet characterized by decentralization, privacy, and user ownership of data In this context, zero-party data stands out as a crucial asset for brands

Zero-party data is data that customers intentionally and proactively share with a brand This type of data collection is transparent and based on a value exchange that respects consumer privacy. By engaging customers directly and rewarding them for their data, brands can gather meaningful insights in an ethical and compliant manner

0PD enables more personalized and relevant marketing efforts, leading to higher engagement, better customer experiences, and ultimately, stronger brand loyalty This shift not only aligns with the ethical demands of today’s consumers but also positions brands as forward-thinking leaders in the evolving digital ecosystem

With Precision Retail just launching, what has been the initial response from retailers, and how do you envision this tool evolving to further enhance marketing strategies and customer insights?

Since Precision Retail launched in June, the initial response from retailers has been overwhelmingly positive Retailers are excited about the unique value we offer, recognizing how our platform can transform their customer engagement strategies Other tools in the post-checkout space primarily focus on attribution insights Precision Retail is pioneering a new data asset for retailers that is crucial in today’s saturated retail landscape

This depth of understanding allows retailers to create meaningful, long-lasting relationships with their customers, which ultimately leads to a more significant return on investment (ROI) By focusing on building these deeper connections rather than just transactional metrics, Precision Retail helps retailers differentiate themselves and gain a competitive edge

We’re expanding our user base, beginning with small to mid-sized DTC brands in Canada and the US and eventually moving to larger enterprise clients. I see Precision Retail evolving into an indispensable tool for retailers, enhancing marketing strategies and fostering stronger, more transparent relationships with customers, positioning retailers for long-term success in a rapidly changing market.

InnovativeWaterSolutions foraSustainableFuturewith TomSpillaneofVivreau

In a discussion with CanadianSME Small Business Magazine, Tom Spillane, Vice President of Technical Excellence at Vivreau, shared the company’s innovative strategies for promoting sustainability With over 15 years of experience, Spillane highlighted how Vivreau’s advanced water dispensers and filtration systems help businesses reduce plastic waste, lower carbon emissions, and contribute to a cleaner environment Through award-winning sustainability initiatives and strategic partnerships, Vivreau is leading the charge toward a more eco-friendly future.

Tom Spillane is the Vice President of Technical Excellence at Vivreau, North America’s leading sustainable water solution. Previously serving as the Vice President of Operations, Spillane has been with Vivreau for over 15 years since the company’s launch in North America. He comes from a background in the foodservice industry and is a technical product expert with an acute knowledge of the beverage business In his role at Vivreau, Spillane works with both the R&D and quality departments, where he is devoted to solving issues and making systems better He is deeply committed to helping companies seek sustainable solutions and eliminate plastic waste

Vivreau has a strong commitment to sustainability. Can you share how the company’s innovative water solutions are helping businesses achieve their sustainability goals?

At Vivreau, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do Our water dispensers and filtration systems are designed to provide high-quality, great-tasting water, while significantly reducing the need for single-use plastic bottles By connecting to existing water sources, our systems deliver micro-filtered still, sparkling, and hot water on demand, drastically cutting down on plastic waste and carbon emissions This not only helps businesses achieve their sustainability targets but also contributes to global environmental conservation efforts

One of Vivreau’s clients, the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa, saved 1 million single-use water bottles per year by switching to a sustainable water solution. Another client, the Auberge SaintAntoine Hotel, implemented a high-volume bottler to provide filtered, chilled, still and sparkling water on-site. This initiative resulted in annual savings of 60,000 single-use plastic bottles and over 60 truck deliveries, saving them $42,000 annually and reducing their carbon footprint Implementing Vivreau water dispensers not only enabled these businesses to achieve their sustainability goals but also delivered substantial cost savings in the process

Vice President of Technical Excellence at Vivreau

What makes Vivreau stand out in the competitive market of water dispensers and purification systems? How do you ensure your products align with the eco-friendly values of your clients?

Vivreau continues to stand out because of our commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability We offer a suite of solutions, from water dispensers to professional filters and reusable bottles, all designed to reduce environmental impact and simplify access to clean, good-tasting water Our products feature state-of-the-art micro-filtration technology and are built with energy efficiency in mind, including options like boiler standby and night modes We work closely with our clients to customize solutions that align with their sustainability values, ensuring that the product they are using meets their specific needs

Vivreau recently won the BIG Sustainability Award. Can you tell us more about the significance of this award and how it reflects your approach to sustainable product development?

We were incredibly honoured to receive the BIG Sustainability Award, which recognizes companies that are leading the way in environmental stewardship and making significant strides in sustainability Winning this award is a testament to our team’s dedication to sustainable innovation and is a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship

It reflects our continuous efforts at Vivreau to develop products that not only meet, but exceed, industry standards for sustainability. Our focus on reducing single-use plastic waste, lowering carbon footprints, and promoting water conservation through advanced filtration systems has set us apart as a leader in the industry. This recognition celebrates our commitment to reducing carbon emissions and underscores the devotion of our entire team.

With the recent partnership with 4ocean, Vivreau is making a tangible impact on ocean conservation. How has this partnership enhanced your company’s mission, and what does the ‘Double Your Impact’ initiative entail for your customers?

This year, Vireau set specific fiscal targets in its budget to quantify the number of plastic bottles it can eliminate from the environment Our partnership with 4ocean has reinforced our commitment to environmental sustainability Through the 'Buy One, Pull One' initiative, we fund the removal of five pounds of ocean plastic for each dispenser sold The 'Double Your Impact' initiative goes even further, removing ten pounds of plastic for every dispenser purchased and installed before the end of September This collaboration helps clean our oceans and strengthens our mission to reduce plastic pollution and promote sustainable practices For our customers, it means they can take pride in knowing that their purchase contributes directly to ocean conservation efforts. Together, we believe we can build a more sustainable future.

The launch of the C-Tap product this summer is a significant milestone for Vivreau. What inspired its development, and how does it contribute to both sustainability and user accessibility?

The development of the Extra C-Tap water dispenser was driven by a need for a versatile, high-performance water dispenser that meets the evolving needs of our clients This product expands on the success of our best-selling Vi Tap Dispenser, offering various water types including chilled still, semi-sparkling, sparkling, and hot water on demand The Extra C-Tap is designed with sustainability in mind, producing 86% less CO2 emissions than single-use plastic bottles and 64% less than traditional water coolers It features low-energy consumption options, making it an eco-friendly choice for businesses.

Additionally, the Extra C-Tap features an optional Easy Access Panel to create a barrier-free, inclusive working environment. The optional control unit can be positioned to provide easy access for wheelchair users, supporting user accessibility.

LookingAhead: HowCanadianSMEsAreHiring

andIntegratingImmigrants

The Canadian economy has undoubtedly been built by the combined efforts of all its citizens, with immigrants contributing significantly However, despite newcomers playing a critical role in Canada’s labour market, many continue to face barriers in the labour market Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a critical role in driving the Canadian economy, however, many organizations don’t believe they have the right mix of employees with the right skills to help grow their organization In response to this challenge, a preeminent research group called the Centre for Business Insights on Immigration (CBII) was formed to explore how to integrate immigrant talent into the workforce better and increase business participation Immigrants and businesses alike may benefit from this non-partisan platform's emphasis on streamlining the immigration process, especially for SMEs that are struggling with chronic labour shortages Moncton, Oshawa, Saskatoon, Halifax, and Abbotsford-Mission are five cities with rapidly growing immigrant populations

A recent study, "Small Business, Big Impact: Immigrant Hiring and Integration in Five Canadian Cities," by the Conference Board of Canada, sheds light on the systemic challenges and opportunities associated with immigrant labour market integration and the challenges small businesses face.

Employment Challenges and Skill Deficits

One of the study’s key findings is that talent shortages are a major problem for SMEs in these locations These companies are looking for people who can start immediately and only need a little training, so, they need to choose people whose skills and education fit the position well For example, local SMEs in Moncton, New Brunswick, need help locating qualified personnel despite a 35.69% rise in the immigrant population from 2016 to 2021. Similar job difficulties have been reported in Oshawa, Ontario, which has seen an increase of 29 71% in its immigrant population Many SMEs adopt practical and inclusive methods to evaluate immigrants' credentials However, very few SMEs actively seek out immigrant communities or work with organizations that serve immigrant populations when it comes to recruiting and onboarding, largely due to negative past experiences and limited understanding of immigration processes Because of this, a diversified talent pool that might assist these enterprises overcome their skill shortages was ignored

The Importance of Personal Relationships

In locations like Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, and Halifax, Nova Scotia, where the immigrant population increased by 10 33% and 7 44%, respectively, the research highlights the significance of enhancing local relationships between SMEs, organizations that serve SMEs, and agencies that assist immigrants Numerous groups that help SMEs have voiced a need to do more to facilitate resource sharing and linkages between their member firms and groups that support immigrants. SMEs may improve their experiences with immigration programs and the integration of immigrant talent into their workforce by cultivating these local relationships Helping SMEs deal with the intricacies of immigration and employment rules is another goal of stronger local collaborations

Flexible workplace policies

In addition to improving local connections, the study recommends that SMEs in cities like Abbotsford-Mission, British Columbia, which saw a 6 25% increase in immigrant population, consider implementing flexible workplace policies to accommodate their employees' diverse needs For example, altering working hours to coincide with public transportation timetables or childcare arrangements might help immigrants manage work and family life These rules promote employee wellbeing and boost work satisfaction and retention, which benefits the company in the long run According to the survey, workplace flexibility may be an effective tool for SMEs to recruit and retain immigrant talent, which is critical in tackling the chronic labour shortages in these emerging cities

The research highlights the need for an immigrant integration system that is adaptable takes into account the requirements of both newcomers and SMEs, and can act to inform regions across Canada. SMEs in Moncton, Oshawa, Saskatoon, Halifax, and Abbotsford-Mission can make significant contributions to the integration of immigrants and the development of the economy by filling skill shortages, fostering local ties, and implementing flexible working rules. To make sure that everyone ' s interests are better served by Canada's immigration system, the CBII's studies and programs are vital in directing these efforts

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Discovering Hidden Talent: Unique Hiring Strategy for Luxury Brands Allison Grodd’s

InanengagingdiscussionwithCanadianSMESmall BusinessMagazine,AllisonGrodd,Presidentof Propelle+Konnect,shedlightonherinnovative approachtohiringtoptalentforluxurybrand experiences Allisonexplainedhowtheconventional hiringprocessoftenfallsshortincapturingthetrue essenceofacandidate Instead,sheandherteam atPropelle+Konnectprioritizeamoreintuitiveand personalizedapproach,allowingcandidatesto revealtheirpassionsandpotentialbeyondwhat’son paper.Thismethodensuresthateachhirealigns perfectlywiththeuniqueneedsandhighstandards oftheluxurybrandstheyrepresent.

AllisonGroddhasspentover15yearsinthestaffing andmarketingindustry,gainingstrongrecognition locallyandacrossNorthAmerica Shehasworked withsomeoftheworld'smostprestigiousluxury brands,includingDior,Gucci,Chanel,andYSL Asthe drivingforcebehindPropelle+Konnect,Allison's expertiseandenthusiasticapproachhavebeen pivotalintheagency'sgrowth Herprimaryobjective astheagencyowneristoconnectgreatpeoplewith greatorganizations,fosteringmutualsuccess

PresidentatPropelle+Konnect

Propelle + Konnect is known for its ability to hire exceptional talent for luxury brand experiences. Can you share your approach to hiring with intuition and how you look beyond the resume to find the perfect match for each brand?

We recognize that traditional interview processes can often be tedious and disconnected, relying heavily on corporate HR tactics that may not fully capture a candidate’s true potential At Propelle + Konnect, we take a more casual and intuitive approach, allowing candidates to express their passions, personalities, and dreams This approach has enabled us to see people come to life in those moments, ensuring we find the perfect match for each luxury brand we represent

We understand that someone suited for a luxury sales position may not always be able to showcase their top qualities merely on a resume That’s why we make it a priority to meet with as many candidates as possible, giving us the opportunity to fairly evaluate talent based on the skills most relevant to the job By doing so, we look beyond the surface and focus on the nuances that truly matter for our brands, ensuring that each hire aligns with our standards of excellence and the unique needs of our clients.

You emphasize the importance of creating a collaborative workforce in the events industry. What strategies do you employ to foster collaboration among your team and the talent you recruit?

We believe that a collaborative workforce is the cornerstone of our success in the events industry We foster collaboration by encouraging every team member and talent we recruit to share their ideas and creative insights We recognize the value of diverse perspectives, which is why we actively create an environment where all voices are heard and respected This approach not only deepens the quality of our ideas but also ensures that we ' re constantly pushing the boundaries of what's possible in our events

Our team is carefully selected to bring unique talents and passions to the table. We prioritize hiring individuals who are not only creative but also deeply passionate about their work. This diversity of skills and enthusiasm fuels a dynamic and collaborative agency culture, allowing us to consistently deliver exceptional and innovative experiences for our clients.

As a female leader in the events industry, what challenges have you faced, and how do you empower other women within your organization and the industry at large?

As a female leader in the events industry, I firmly believe that women possess incredible talent and strength I've never allowed my gender to define or limit my success In fact, I view being a woman as a significant factor in my achievements Challenges related to gender havent been a focal point for me; instead, I've always embraced my unique strengths intuition, empathy, and strong communication skills as powerful tools in my leadership

These qualities have been instrumental in guiding my team, engaging with clients, and negotiating contracts By leaning into these natural abilities, I believe women can be unstoppable I’m committed to empowering other women within my organization and the broader industry by encouraging them to embrace and leverage these strengths Through mentorship and support, I strive to create an environment where women feel confident in their capabilities and are inspired to reach their full potential

When it comes to creating buzzworthy events, what simple yet effective steps do you recommend for ensuring that an activation truly engages and captivates customers?

The first step is always listening to your customer understanding their goals and how you can create something lasting from that insight. Personalization is key to creating buzzworthy events Crafting a unique experience tailored to the consumer is crucial for engagement Simple yet effective steps include deeply understanding the target audience, incorporating interactive elements that resonate, and ensuring every touchpoint feels personal Consumers today are highly discerning when it comes to their favorite brands, and to stand out, you need to build loyalty through memorable experiences

Your journey from managing small events to working with major clients like Coty is inspiring. How has your philosophy of balancing dedication and reflection contributed to the long-term success and growth of Propelle + Konnect?

From the inception of Propelle + Konnect, my commitment to hard work and willingness to go above and beyond for clients were the cornerstones of our business philosophy This dedication has never wavered By consistently applying the principle that every client, regardless of size, deserves the same level of effort and attention, we have naturally and organically risen to the top of the travel retail space due to those principles We are incredibly proud of this journey and the growth it has brought us

Procurement is a very significant part of running a business successfully, which is why small and medium businesses (SMB) need a service provider that can streamline and simplify the procurement and supply chain process One company that does this job perfectly is ProcurePro, led by a woman entrepreneur who is a pioneer in the field – Jill Button's entrepreneurial journey exemplifies her exceptional problem-solving skills and unwavering determination to redefine what it means to be successful Jill has successfully transitioned her career from a conventional corporate trajectory to a path of creative solutions, greatly benefiting multiple businesses throughout Canada

Acknowledging the Need for Improvement

As a matter of fact, Jill's career in procurement and supply chain management was characterized by a track record of accomplishments and prominent positions within several of Canada's leading companies Despite her accomplishments, she became disenchanted with the constraints and monotonous obstacles of the corporate realm She found the traditional ladder to be unsatisfying, as it prevented her from tackling the profound and meaningful problems she was truly passionate about

After her experience with burnout, which was a significant turning point in her life. Jill came to the realization that the conventional notion of success was not in line with her personal values and aspirations She longed for a position that would allow her to apply her skills and make a significant difference Jill's frustration with the limitations of corporate advancement prompted her to have a significant epiphany: in order to have a true voice in decision-making, she realized she had to forge her own path Her realization sparked a newfound direction, even though she initially had doubts about what to do next

Embracing the Spirit of Entrepreneurship

It should be noted Jill's knack for entrepreneurship was apparent from a young age as she fearlessly pursued a wide range of opportunities. Her openness to exploring different business opportunities showcased her ability to adapt and her strong business sense. However, a request from a former colleague to review some contracts caught her attention and sparked an important idea

Essentially, Jill quickly realized the high demand for her exceptional procurement skills. Numerous companies encountered considerable procurement challenges yet lacked the means to maintain an internal procurement team She identified a significant gap in the market and recognized an opportunity to address it This realization prompted the establishment of ProcurePro Consulting, where she could utilize her expertise to assist numerous organizations in accomplishing their procurement objectives

In fact, the company has recently introduced ProcureHub, a cutting-edge B2B professional services marketplace that aims to transform the way businesses grow their organizations This platform exemplifies the company ' s dedication to revolutionizing the way businesses buy, providing efficient and user-friendly procurement process from verified suppliers ProcurePro's new service reinforces its status as an industry leader, consistently innovating to meet its clients' changing needs

Ultimately, ProcurePro is celebrating its 11-year anniversary, and Jill's journey from corporate procurement roles to entrepreneurial success is truly inspiring. It serves as a powerful reminder of the incredible outcomes that can be achieved when one identifies and pursues their true passion. Jill Button's story highlights the significance of creating one ' s own opportunities and the transformative effect that innovative solutions can have on businesses globally

To learn more about ProcurePro’s services, visit their official site by clicking here.

Interestingly enough, ProcurePro Consulting was founded to offer virtual procurement services to various industries, such as media and entertainment, manufacturing, and FinTech Over the past decade, ProcurePro has experienced significant growth and established itself as a reliable partner for companies in need of streamlined and successful procurement solutions Jill's exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to resolving intricate procurement challenges have played a pivotal role in driving the company ' s remarkable and award winning, achievements.