HALIFAX CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2021 | VOLUME 30 ISSUE 11
Pg 16
Big business, big(ger) impact Large employers in HRM support growth of city, economy
HIRING WITH INTENTION
FRENCH FUNNELL
WHAT’S NEXT FOR HALIFAX
Matching candidates with businesses Pg 20
Service in French Pg 25
Education and economic opportunities Pg 29
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
COVER STORY:
03 President’s message 04 Chamber Events 05 New & Noted 10 Members in the news 16 COVER STORY: Big business, big(ger) impact
Large employers in HRM support growth of city, economy
20 SECONDARY STORY: Hiring with intention
DEN aims to match African Nova Scotian candidates with local businesses
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PROFILE: Dartmouth Adult Services Centre
25 Trends
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Labatt Breweries employee, one of more than 200, in the Oland Brewery on Agricola Street.
Board of Directors – Officers
Mark Sidebottom, Nova Scotia Power, Chair Faten Alshazly, WeUsThem, Vice-Chair Gavin MacDonald, Cox & Palmer, Past Chair Roger Boutilier, Nova Scotia Association of REALTORS Ann Divine, Ashanti Leadership Karim George, InTouch Communications
Directors
Michele Peveril, Halifax Port Authority Brad Proctor, McInnes Cooper Richard Butts, Clayton Developments Limited Caroline Wolfe Stewart, Nova Scotia College of Nursing Andrew de Freitas, Canadian National Railway Christopher Googoo, Ulnooweg Hon. Joanne Bernard, Easter Seals Nova Scotia David Rideout, MetroWorks Chris Cowper-Smith, Spring Loaded Technology Martha Casey, VOLTA Captain (N) A.S. Williams, CD, Maritime Forces Atlantic Kimberly Stephens, Appili Therapeutics Inc. Denise Allen, Food Processors of Canada Donna Harding, Engel & Völkers Paul Way, TD Private Wealth
Chamber Staff
Patrick Sullivan, President and CEO Becky Davison, Vice President, Marketing Kent Roberts, Vice President, Policy Sandra White, Director of Finance and Administration Emma Menchefski, Communications Manager
29 Working for you 2
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021
Volume 30 • Issue 11 Business Voice is published 11 times a year for members of the Halifax Chamber of Commerce and Metro Halifax’s business community. Views expressed in Business Voice are those of the contributors and individual members, and are not necessarily endorsed by, or are a policy of, the Halifax Chamber of Commerce. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions that may occur. Please address editorial enquiries and changes to information to: Halifax Chamber of Commerce 100-32 Akerley Boulevard Dartmouth, Nova Scotia B3B 1N1 Tel: 902-468-7111 Fax: 902-468-7333 info@halifaxchamber.com www.halifaxchamber.com Cover and table of contents photo credit: Contributed by Oland Brewery
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Wrapping up Thank you Halifax, for sticking together
@prezhfxchamber Discover Halifax
PATRICK SULLIVAN PRESIDENT & CEO
It’s time for us to rediscover our growing community.
Photos Discover Halifax
T
he past year presented challenges for everyone in our community. But the challenges for local businesses were particularly acute. Businesses opened, locked down, and reopened again. Through every phase of our government’s reopening plan, business owners and their employees were on the front lines. They adopted public health protocols to keep our community safe. We’re also happy to report that rapid testing is now at an all-time high, with the Halifax Chamber distributing more than 11,000 kits in just one week. Their dedication to operating safely, to keeping you and your families healthy, has been and continues to be incredibly admirable. Our community recognizes and celebrates these efforts. We came together to rally behind our local businesses. But they still need our support.
It’s time for us to rediscover our growing community. As Nova Scotia approaches a population of one million people, we need to set an example. We need to shop and support local, especially as local business grows. Keep visiting your favourite spots, but also make time to explore the newly-arrived businesses in our community. There are so many innovative enterprises breaking new ground in Nova Scotia. We are honoured to be able to highlight some of these businesses at the 2022 Halifax Business Awards, on January 27, 2022.
BUSINESS VOICE
Looking back on this past year, it was wonderful to see clients and customers enthusiastically supporting our business community. It was just as wonderful to see businesses supporting each other. At the Chamber, we are privileged to act as a bridge between businesses. We witnessed new collaborations and partnerships, and it was inspiring. Thank you to our dedicated membership for your commitment, and thank you to our 150 new members this year. It is so rewarding to be a part of your journey. Until next year … ■ 3
EVENTS
CHAMBER EVENTS
For a full list of Chamber events, visit: halifaxchamber.com/events
Contact chris@halifaxchamber.com for partnership opportunities NEW MEMBER NIGHT DECEMBER 2021 DECEMBER 15 4:00PM – 6:00PM VIRTUAL
BUSINESS AFTER HOURS JANUARY 13, 2022
VIRTUAL CHAMBER 101
ANNUAL STATE OF THE MUNICIPALITY with Mayor Mike Savage
FEBRUARY 10, 2022 STAY TUNED FOR DETAILS!
ANNUAL STATE OF THE PROVINCE with Premier Tim Houston
FEBRUARY 2022 STAY TUNED FOR DETAILS!
JANUARY 2022 STAY TUNED FOR DETAILS!
2022 HALIFAX BUSINESS AWARDS
THANK YOU TO OUR OCTOBER PARTNERS:
JANUARY 27, 2022 5:00PM – 9:30PM HALIFAX CONVENTION CENTRE In person events are back and we can’t wait to welcome you to the 2022 Halifax Business Awards in person! Join us for the most glamorous night of the year and let’s celebrate the Halifax Business Community in a room full of buzz and excitement.
TICKETS ON SALE NOW!
Visit halifaxchamber.com/events to register!
We Have Moved!
HALIFAXCHAMBER.COM/ EVENTS
The Halifax law office of Cox & Palmer has relocated to Nova Centre. Our new address is: Nova Centre - South Tower 1500 - 1625 Grafton Street Halifax NS B3J 0E8 Correspondence and phone numbers remain the same: PO Box 2380 Central, Halifax NS B3J 3E5 We look forward to welcoming you to our new location.
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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021
NEWSMAKERS
NEW & NOTED We welcome our new Chamber members ACADIA BROADCASTING Acadia Broadcasting is a Maritime based media company with deep roots in Nova Scotia. In Halifax we operate three businesses including a modern rockbased radio station called Surge 105, Hot Country 103.5 which plays the top songs in country music and our online good news business publication called Huddle Today. Scott Pettigrew 100 Main Street, Suite 2035 Westphal Plaza Dartmouth, NS 902-429-1035 pettigrew.scott@radioabl.ca acadiabroadcasting.ca ADVERTISING, PR & MEDIA – Advertising
ADAMS PEST CONTROL We’re one of the few, highly reviewed, locally owned pest control companies, servicing Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. We’ve built our business around the basics: answering the phone, showing up quickly, guaranteed work, and competitive pricing. Call us today for a commercial or residential quote! Mark Estey Halifax, NS 902-220-4003 mestey@adamspestcontrol.ca adamspestcontrol.ca HOME & GARDEN – Pest Control
AQUACULTURE ASSOCIATION OF NOVA SCOTIA The Aquaculture Association of Nova Scotia (AANS) is a not-for-profit, member-driven trade association that represents the interests of sea farmers in the finfish, shellfish, and seaplants sectors of our industry. The AANS’ mission is to support the production of quality farmed seafood, creating economic development opportunities for all Nova Scotians based on a renewable resource.
Melissa Baxter
2960 Oxford St. Halifax, NS 902-422-6234 seafarmers@seafarmers.ca seafarmers.ca NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS – Not-For-Profit Groups
BEDFORD LAND COMPANY LIMITED Bedford Land Company is a collective comprised of the most talented and experienced players from Atlantic Canada’s real estate and land development scenes. We’re blazing paths forward and changing the game as we go. We choose projects that inspire us and aim to contribute to a healthy, happy and inclusive Nova Scotia. Jonathan Andrews Hammonds Plains, NS 902-809-5144 jonathan@bedfordlandco.com bedfordlandco.com REAL ESTATE/CONSTRUCTION – Developer
BOONDOCKS RESTAURANT Boondocks Restaurant is a Family Restaurant at Fisherman’s Cove in Eastern Passage, NS. We serve seafood, pub favourites and lots more. We have approximately 216 seats inside and 160 outside on a huge deck, right next to the ocean, for romantic suppers, family gatherings and business meetings up to 100. Jasmine Slaunwhite
BREAST CANCER SOCIETY OF CANADA The Breast Cancer Society of Canada (BCSC) is a registered, national, nonprofit charity dedicated to saving lives through breast cancer research since 1991. We raise money to fund research that directly impacts patients for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of breast cancer. Charlene Politano 415 Exmouth St., Unit 101 Sarnia, ON 800-567-8767 cpolitano@bcsc.ca bcsc.ca NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS – Charitable Organizations
B’SPOKE APPAREL Using 3D body-scanning technology to ensure precise measuring, we design and manufacture for both the private client and uniform markets. Shirts, suits, coats, bridal, prom and evening gowns are designed to your body shape. Pulling from our selection of hundreds of fabrics and design expertise, you will walk out of your door with your head up, shoulders back, feeling fantastic in your clothes. Murilo Torres
35 Ash Lake Court Halifax, NS 613-852-1009 murilo@bspokeapparel.com bspokeapparel.com BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES – Rentals/Sales/Service
200 Government Wharf Rd., Unit 6 Eastern Passage, NS 902-465-3474 info@boondocksrestaurant.ca boondocksrestaurant.ca RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE – Restaurant
BUSINESS VOICE
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NEWSMAKERS DESIGN YOUR FUTURE FINANCIAL SERIVCES
EWYN STUDIOS OF DARTMOUTH
As proud owner of Design Your Future, our mission is to help those that are helping others by giving unbiased and proper financial guidance based on our client’s vision, values and goals. Grow, Protect, and Keep what you built instead of giving it away to taxes, fees and the unknown so you can focus on what's truly important — your family, health, career, and community. Steve MacLellan
EWYN Weight Loss Studios offer individualized Weight Management Programs combining meal planning, support, and natural supplements. Clients follow a well-balanced meal plan eating their own grocery store bought food. EWYN Studios also offers a variety of Natural Wellness Products that support an active lifestyle. EWYN — Exactly what you need! Nicole Wreaks
Fall River, NS 902-240-6508 steve@thefinancialengineer.ca DesignAnEvenBetterFuture.com FINANCE & INSURANCE – Financial Planner
CEDAR BAY GRILLING COMPANY Doug Park
60 Gates Fishplant Rd. Blandford, NS 902-228-2559 doug@cedarbaygrilling.com cedarbaygrilling.com RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE – Food Manufacturer
EUROBEAUTY Established in 2008, EuroBeauty’s mission of being “Atlantic Canada’s only supplier that exclusively serves the unique needs of Estheticians and Spa/ Salon owners and operators” remains the same. EuroBeauty is your source for the professional products, equipment, and training that build a loyal clientele! Anna Giguere 3260 Barrington St., Suite 108 Halifax, NS 902-489-6088 annagiguere@eurobeauty.ca eurobeauty.ca BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES – Sales
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590 Portland St., Unit 2 Dartmouth, NS 902-403-0299 nicole.wreaks@ewynstudios.com ewynstudios.com HEALTH CARE – Health and Wellness
FAMILY SOS ASSOCIATION Family SOS is a local, non-profit, child-centered organization directed toward building strong and healthy families. Founded in 1978, by Dr. John Anderson, as an inclusive family support agency, Family SOS takes a preventative approach to assisting families by developing parenting confidence and providing the guidance and tools required to successfully navigate their life circumstances. Katherine Ryder-Burbidge 5450 Cornwallis St. Halifax, NS 902-455-5515 katherine@familysos.ca familysos.ca NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS – Charitable Organizations
FUMES ROLLING PAPERS & ACCESSORIES Fumes is a black owned, cannabis accessory company. Based out of the east coast of Canada! Our rolling papers are made from all-natural pure hemp pulp and sourced from conflict free growers. With no artificial additives we guarantee a smooth, even, tasteless burn!
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021
Josh Creighton
Halifax, NS 902-981-8661 joshcreighton@highofffumes.com highofffumes.com SHOPPING & SPECIALTY RETAIL – Cannabis
GRANDWAY MARKETING Grandway Marketing is a results-driven digital marketing company specializing in web design and development, SEO, branding, graphic design and email marketing, primarily serving small business across various industries including construction, manufacturing, restaurants, real estate, ecommerce, and more. Based in Halifax NS but serving clients across Canada. Nic Stana Halifax, NS 902-412-9239 nic.stana@grandwaymarketing.com grandwaymarketing.com ADVERTISING, PR & MEDIA – Internet Marketing
INDOCHINE ASIAN SANDWICHES Indochine is a quick service Asian Fusion restaurant specializing in Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwiches). We also serve fresh and healthy soups, noodle bowls, tacos, phorritos, smoothies, bubble tea and more. Eat in, take away or delivery. Vegan and gluten free options available. Elizabeth Smith
1551 South Park St., Unit A Halifax, NS 902-407-1222 Indochinebanhmi@gmail.com Indochine.ca RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE – Cafe/Deli
HALIFAX BLOGGERS MEDIA Kate Kirkpatrick
Halifax, NS 902-223-9437 localwishlist@halifaxbloggers.ca halifaxbloggers.ca BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES – Publishing
NEWSMAKERS HALIFAX JAZZ FESTIVAL As a registered charitable organization, Halifax Jazz Festival has been providing year-round vibrant musical experiences for our community through performance, education and outreach for over 35 years. Our flagship event, The TD Halifax Jazz Festival is one of the largest summer music festivals in Atlantic Canada. Andrea Dawson Thomas
2882 Gottingen St. Halifax, NS 902-718-6205 executivedirector@halifaxjazzfestival.ca halifaxjazzfestival.ca ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT – Music
HAMSTER Hamster is a trademark of Novexco Inc., the largest Canadian-owned office supply distributor. Hamster, formerly both BuroPLUS, and Novexco's Commercial Division. Hamster is represented by nearly 110 stores in Eastern Canada, a Commercial Division present across Canada, and a website for Canadian Consumers. All of this is served by five Distribution Centers in Laval QC, Calgary AB, Dartmouth NS, Toronto ON and Montreal QC. Hamster employs nearly 500 people in it’s Laval Headquarters and Distribution Centers, and if we count the Staff of all of our stores, well, we are close to 6,000 people. Jennifer Price 26 Topple Dr., Unit #2 Dartmouth, NS 902-818-2326 jennifer.price@hamster.ca hamster.ca BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES – Office Supplies/Equip.
KYDDER GROUP INC.
Michael Kydd
Bedford, NS 902-880-6121 michael@kyddergroup.com kyddergroup.com COMMUNICATIONS – Communications Consulting
LOUIS BUHRMANN ACCOUNTING SERVICES Louis Buhrmann Accounting Services provides bookkeeping services with end-to end-service delivery ranging from Quickbooks Online Bookkeeping to Corporate Tax Filing. Take a picture of a receipt on your phone or email the receipt and we do the rest! Or if you do inhouse bookkeeping, we perform monthly checks to ensure your books are in good shape. Louis Buhrmann Bedford, NS 902-495-1664 louis.buhrmann@ accountingandtaxservices.ca accountingandtaxservices.ca FINANCE & INSURANCE – Bookkeeping
MAD DESIGN INTERIORS Madona’s passion for interior design creates spaces that suit your lifestyle. With her artistic eye, she can create a clean contemporary look or a warm traditional design to make your space functional, beautiful, and inviting. Her expertise, enthusiasm, and knowledge will transform your space to achieve its full potential. Madona Nemr Halifax, NS 902-830-1656 madonanemr@gmail.com maddesigninteriors.com BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES – Interior Designers
Driven by the desire to support change in Canada’s mental health regime, Kydder Group Inc. is a regulatory communication firm led by Principal & Founder, Michael Kydd, that provides insight and direction to some of the most prominent psychedelic therapy, research and biotech companies, and associations across the world.
MR. LUBE There’s no need for an appointment when you come to Mr. Lube. We’ll change your oil and perform a wide range of other maintenance services, keeping your vehicle running smoother than ever. Since 1976, Mr. Lube has grown to more than 180 locations across Canada. Come experience Mr. Lube today in Halifax or Dartmouth. Robert Logan 376 Lacewood Dr. Halifax, NS 902-425-5823 mr.luberl@gmail.com mrlube.com TRANSPORTATION – Automotive Repair/Parts
NOVA BOX GIFT COMPANY Nova Box is focused on working with local makers and artisans to provide gift solutions. Our goal is to bring awareness to our unique communities while assisting our clients in the magical process of gifting. We send love next door, around the world, and to those who need a little piece of home. Allyson England 6380 Lady Hammond Rd., Unit 3 Halifax, NS 902-579-3705 ally@novabox.ca novabox.ca COMPUTERS, IT & TECHNOLOGY – E-Commerce
ON–LINE COMPUTER SERVICES INC. Established in 1989, we provide a wide range of IT services for a variety of clients and industries. These services include IT consulting; developing, supplying and implementing IT infrastructure using latest best practices; and following up with on-going support. Our goal is the efficient and long-term stability of a client's IT. Christa Rizzuto 2854 Agricola St. Halifax, NS 902-701-3703 christa@on-line.net on-line.net COMPUTERS, IT & TECHNOLOGY – Computer Networks
BUSINESS VOICE
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NEWSMAKERS OUTSIDE EDGE HOCKEY DEVELOPMENT INC. Cari Duggan-MacNeil
531 Herring Cove Rd., Suite 200 Halifax, NS 902-223-0045 cari@outsideedge.ca outsideedge.ca SPORTS & RECREATION – Recreation/Sports/Fitness
POPULAR DEMAND PICTURES, INC. Jon Mann
Halifax, NS 902-329-0507 jon@populardemandpictures.ca ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT – Film/Television
POTHIER PLUMBING AND HEATING INC. Pothier Plumbing and Heating Inc. works closely with local contractors, businesses and homeowners to provide quality plumbing and heating installations and service at competitive rates. With free estimates and courteous service, we are the #1 choice for your next plumbing and heating project. Jason Pothier
Dartmouth, NS 902-403-3774 jason@pothierplumbing.com pothierplumbing.com INDUSTRIAL & MANUFACTURING – Plumbing
R&B KITCHEN INC. R&B Kitchen is a family run Soul Food/ Carribean food take out restaurant in Dartmouth. Bringing you daily menus of some of the finest cuisine “The Culture” has to offer while fulfilling our mission of providing jobs, mentorship, and more to African Nova Scotian Youth. Nevell Provo
760A Main St. Dartmouth, NS 902-461-7529 nevell@smoothmealprep.com rnbkitchen.com RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE – Restaurant
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REFTEK SYSTEMS INC.
ROVE PRODUCTIONS
Reftek is a world-renowned Seismic equipment company that designs and manufactures Seismic systems for monitoring the effects of earthquakes. Reftek products are used the world over in structural monitoring and hazard mitigation. Krista Mulholland
We bridge the gap between strategy and storytelling. We are a creative production company dedicated to doing whatever it takes to tell your story in a uniquely bold way. Our partners are brands who are looking for their next big idea, direction, or tool that will take their brand and business to a higher level. Ryker Titus
75 MacDonald Ave., Unit 1 Dartmouth, NS 902-444-0539 krista@reftek.com reftek.com COMPUTERS, IT & TECHNOLOGY – Computer Supplies
REGIONAL INDEPENDENT STUDENTS ASSOCIATION Lesley Davidson
Dartmouth, NS 902-466-0249 brockwellhouse@eastlink.ca risayouth.org NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS – Charitable Organizations
REMOTEVIDEO.CO Are you interested in using video to let the world know about what you do, but don’t know how to get started? RemoteVideo.Co is a unique, affordable, and fully remote video production solution that will get you speaking directly to your audience in no time. No technical experience needed! Andrew King
Halifax, NS 506-210-4777 king.andrew.david@gmail.com remotevideo.co ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT – Video/Multimedia
ROSWALL DEVELOPMENT INC. Daniel Roscoe
397 Bedford Highway, 3rd Floor Halifax, NS 902-489-6787 dan@roswall.ca roswall.ca ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT – Energy/Natural Resources
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021
Dartmouth, NS 902-247-0788 hello@roveproductions.ca roveproductions.ca PERSONAL CARE & SERVICES – Photography
SEASIDE CLEANERS Welcome to Seaside Cleaners, where we are excited to bring to you our cleaning services. Our skilled cleaners not only bring years of experience to you, they also have Health and Safety training, including Workplace Violence & Harassment, Distracted Driving and we follow all COVID 19 protocols. We cannot wait to make your new home, existing home, or office a clean and comfortable place to return to. Sarah Murphy
Dartmouth, NS 902-309-1138 lakefrontcouplesretreat@gmail.com INDUSTRIAL & MANUFACTURING – Cleaning/Janitorial
SHORTSTOP Peter Woodward
Dartmouth, NS 902-401-4267 peter@shortstop.agency shortstop.agency ADVERTISING, PR & MEDIA – Advertising
NEWSMAKERS SMART INCOME Smart Income helps local businesses reach new markets using knowledge products. We offer full service in digital marketing, sales funnels automation, business development, and business training. Georges Hanna Halifax, NS 902-802-8018 georges@smartinco.me smartinco.me BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES – Business Consulting
STORAGE INN — STANLEY ST. Dianne Hussey
6071 Stanley St. Halifax, NS 902-446-2727 dhussey@storageinn.ca storageinn.ca BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES – Rentals/Sales/Service
THE GARDEN The Garden (formally Garden Food Bar & Lounge) is centrally located in downtown Halifax, at the corner of Clyde and Queen. Our 4,000 sq ft beautiful restaurant/bar is illuminated with wallto-wall windows. Kourosh Rad
1446 Queen St. Halifax, NS 902-830-9341 krad@gardenhalifax.com gardenhalifax.com/menu/ RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE – Restaurant
THE HALIFAX AGENT — CHRIS CROWELL Providing premium buying & selling real estate services to residents of HRM and beyond in Nova Scotia. No one will work harder for you than me! Whether you’re buying or selling, I’ll facilitate the entire process ensuring all your requirements are met as seamlessly as possible!
Chris Crowell
Halifax, NS 902-209-3919 chris.crowell@thehalifaxagent.com thehalifaxagent.com REAL ESTATE/CONSTRUCTION – Real Estate Residential
THE SUMMIT — SKIN CARE & HAIR REMOVAL LIMITED For over 30 years, The Summit has been one of the top spas in Halifax, Nova Scotia with many awards won to prove it. At the Summit, you can expect knowledgeable advice from experienced, professional and caring staff in a private, relaxing environment. We specialize in permanent hair removal, clinical skin care, and advanced foot care. Susan Alward 5495 Spring Garden Rd., Suite 101 Halifax, NS 902-423-3888 susan@summitspa.ca summitspa.ca PERSONAL CARE & SERVICES – Spa
THEATRE NOVA SCOTIA Theatre Nova Scotia is a charitable organization supporting live theatre activity across the province. We are a source of information for what’s happening on stage and provide programs, scholarships, and resources to our members including the Nova Scotia High School Drama Fest, PERFORM! artists-in-the-schools program, and the Robert Merritt Awards. Cat MacKeigan 1113 Marginal Rd. Halifax, NS 902-425-3876 cmackeigan@theatrens.ca theatrens.ca ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT – Theatre
TODD HILL FARM ASSOCIATION Todd Hill Farm is a non-profit horse farm in Oakfield. The farm is home to 30 horses and sits on 70 acres of rolling fields, woods, and trails. In addition to riding lessons for all ages and skill levels, Todd Hill offers Personal Development workshops where horses become the teachers. Karen Gillighan 6570 Highway 2 Enfield, NS 902-440-6811 toddhillfarm@ns.sympatico.ca toddhillfarm.com SPORTS & RECREATION – Recreation/Sports/Fitness
UD PROMOTIONS O/A 3335649 NS LIMITED We are a locally founded company offering an unrivalled selection of quality customized products and marketing promotion material design for local businesses at affordable prices. Whether you are a restaurant owner who wants to order engraved cutlery with your business’ name or logo, or a car dealer who wants to hand customers their new car key with a keychain that has your business’ name and contact info on it, we are here for you. Dr. Zu Chen Bedford, NS 902-989-1848 dr.acup@hotmail.com BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES – Consulting (General)
RETIRED MEMBER GINA MELANSON
Lower Sackville, NS gina@ascendantBookkeeping.com
THIEF & BANDIT APPAREL AND ACCESSORIES INC. Amie Cunningham
1673 Barrington St., Suite 200 Halifax, NS 902-802-4685 amie@thiefandbandit.com thiefandbandit.com BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES – Sales
BUSINESS VOICE
Are you a new member?
To submit your 50-word description for New & Noted, please contact Mandi Bowser, Administrative Specialist at mandi@halifaxchamber.com or 902-468-7111 within the first six months of membership.
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NEWSMAKERS
MEMBERS IN THE NEWS How our members are growing Halifax
DEBORAH ROSATI FEATURED IN MSVU BUSINESS & TOURISM FIRESIDE CHAT SERIES Following a very successful first year, Mount Saint Vincent University’s Business & Tourism Department’s (virtual) Fireside Chat series kicked off its second year on September 28, featuring new stories and perspectives from Canada’s business and tourism leaders. The webinars are open to all. The first event for the 2021/2022 series took place on Tuesday, September 28, 2021 and featured governance and leadership guru and entrepreneur Deborah Rosati. Deborah is the founder and CEO of Women Get on Board, a 700+ member-based social purpose company that connects, promotes and empowers women to corporate boards.
TANGENT STRATEGIES INC. INTRODUCES NEW CORPORATE DIVISION SALES HR at Tangent Strategies Inc. helps North American companies affordably recruit, interview and hire the BEST-selling talent. We believe selling should be a long-term profession populated by women and men that buyers can easily welcome, get to know well and with whom they can conduct profitable business for years to come.
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SONA LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE At SONA, we are so pleased to announce the launch of our brand NEW website! Our redesigned platform allows users to easily access in-depth information on the payment solutions we offer, discover
who we are as a company and the areas we serve, and gain quick access to local support when they need it most. We can’t wait for you to see it and look forward to hearing your feedback. www.sonapay.ca
CMHA NS OFFERING RESILIENCE WORKSHOP When something goes wrong, do you tend to bounce back or fall apart? When you have resilience, you harness inner strength that helps you rebound from a setback or challenge, such as a job loss, an illness, a disaster, or loss. Resilience won’t make your problems go away — but it can give you the ability to see past them, find enjoyment in life,
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021
and manage stress. This workshop from the Canadian Mental Health Association Nova Scotia is being offered in communities across the province and offers tips and techniques to manage stress, strengthen coping skills, and learn to thrive. To find out when it’s available in your community, visit www.novascotia.cmha.ca
NEWSMAKERS
A NEW FUND FOR FRENCH LEARNERS Last November, Alliance Française Halifax (AFH) created a new fund “Coup de Pouce” for those wishing to learn French, but who are experiencing financial limitations. 17 recipients of all ages benefited from this grant. Thanks to 45 donors, $4,395 was raised which AFH topped up to reach the round number of $5,000. It was the first time AFH undertook this type of fundraising campaign and what a success, given that it took place in the context of the COVID19 pandemic. We are pleased to announce that this year again in November, funds will be raised for “Coup de Pouce.”
EDUNOVA WELCOMES NEW PRESIDENT AND CEO We would like to give a very warm welcome to Shawna Garrett, who joined EduNova as president and CEO on September 27, 2021. Originally from the Maritimes, Garrett joins us from the College of the North Atlantic, where she is the transformation and change leader for the registrar’s office. She has held registrarial and enrolment management positions at Acadia University, NSCAD University, College of the North Atlantic — Qatar and Mount Allison University. She has also worked as a superintendent, principal, and dean at international schools in Japan and China. Her wide-ranging experiences in student recruitment, retention and affairs give her invaluable insight into the education sector. “I am delighted that we will have the experience of Shawna Garrett to lead EduNova through this crucial time for international education,” says EduNova board chair Dr. Peter Ricketts, “and I welcome Shawna on behalf of the board of directors.”
MEET BENJAMIN BRADBURY!
ECIC LAUNCHES CCA PROGRAM
Ben’s parents were worried about him feeling included growing up as an amputee, about the challenges he would face, or the disappointment he might feel when he couldn’t run, jump, skate, ride a bike, or participate in sports like other children. That’s when they discovered Easter Seals Nova Scotia’s Take PART program. Now each week, Ben and his dad drive from New Glasgow to Halifax to participate in Learn to Wheel and other Take PART recreation programs. At Easter Seals Nova Scotia we’re happy to see stories like Ben’s, because inclusion is an important part of every child’s quality of life. Take PART helps fill a gap in inclusive sports for youth in our community.
East Coast Language College (ECLC) has launched a private career college division, East Coast International College (ECIC). It will offer its first Continuing Care Assistant (CCA) program in early 2022. With a focus on international recruitment, ECIC will help alleviate Nova Scotia’s shortage of health care workers, and contribute to NS’s immigration targets. ECLC and ECIC have been acquired by the Oxford International Education Group, a company with schools in North America and Europe. “With Oxford International’s support with the recruitment efforts for ECIC’s CCA program, it is an exciting time for health care in Nova Scotia,” said Sheila Nunn, Director, ECLC and ECIC. www.eclccanda.com
BUSINESS VOICE
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NEWSMAKERS
LIGHTHOUSE TRANSPORT FEATURED IN PORT OF HALIFAX MAGAZINE Lighthouse Transport LTD. was featured in the Port of Halifax Magazine (Issue: Fall 2021), where Colleen O’Toole (CEO) was interviewed to discuss about the elements that led her company to grow during the pandemic. We were so pleased to see that we were making a difference in our community, and that we were able to serve our clients in the best way we could. Our efforts were noticed, and we appreciate every person who contributed to our growth and success.
ATLANTIC LOTTERY BOARD ANNOUNCES NEW PRESIDENT & CEO The Board of Directors of Atlantic Lottery is pleased to announce the appointment of Patrick Daigle as the organization’s President and Chief Executive Officer. Daigle began his tenure with Atlantic Lottery in 1997 and served as Chief Financial Officer prior to being appointed Interim President and CEO in February 2021. Sean O’Connor, Chair of Atlantic Lottery’s Board of Directors, said Daigle’s nearly 25 years of senior leadership experience will be a valued asset to the organization in its ongoing evolution as a modern gaming experience company. “The Board of Directors’ succession committee followed a rigorous hiring process to ensure we identified the best candidate for this position,” O’Connor said. “We are pleased that candidate was Patrick Daigle, who brings many years of proven experience and knowledge of Atlantic Lottery’s operations to the role.” 12
SOBEY FAMILY GIVES $1 MILLION TO HELP THE NOVA SCOTIA NATURE TRUST PROTECT TWICE THE WILD Land conservation in the province has received a huge boost from the Sobey family, with a $1 million donation toward the Nova Scotia Nature Trust’s campaign to protect Twice the Wild. Their gift makes big wins possible in protecting the province’s most outstanding and treasured wild spaces. “The Sobey family’s gift is game-changing for land conservation in Nova Scotia. It brings
the campaign target within sight, and means we can move even more quickly in saving Nova Scotia’s most significant and threatened natural areas,” says Bonnie Sutherland, Executive Director of the Nature Trust. “We hope others will be inspired by their incredible generosity and leadership in protecting Nova Scotia’s natural legacy.”
CYCLESMITH ANNOUNCES LIVING WAGE POLICY
CEED LAUNCHES NEW MENTORING PROGRAM
Cyclesmith is excited to announce that it will be implementing a Living Wage policy, effective September 1, 2021. Cyclesmith owner, Andrew Feenstra, believes that this move is the right thing to do for his team, the business, and the community, and hopes that other businesses will follow suit. Cyclesmith, located on Agricola Street in Halifax’s North End currently employs twenty permanent full-time staff. “Recruiting and retaining quality staff has always been a challenge, but Covid-19, the bike boom, and the housing crisis have made it more difficult than ever,” says Feenstra. “We believe that paying a real living wage is not only the right thing to do, but provides us with a competitive advantage in hiring the best people in Halifax. I want people to know that working for Cyclesmith is a long-term, viable career.”
Do YOU know someone who would be a great mentor? Someone passionate about entrepreneurship? Someone who is willing to share their knowledge to empower others? CEED, the Centre for Entrepreneurship Education and Development, is proud to announce that we are launching the CEED | Elevate Mentorship Program! Elevate will be a unique opportunity for mentors and mentees alike to develop ongoing relationships and connections to community through learning and dialogue, and discovering new challenges. The power in Elevate is training … CEED will leverage our years of experience and best practise in advancing entrepreneurship across Nova Scotia and provide both mentors and mentees with a foundation from which they can build their relationships.
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021
NEWSMAKERS
VOLTA CELEBRATES ECOSYSTEM IMPACT AWARD WINNERS
FATEN ALSHAZLY NAMED ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR Founder, award-winning mentor and Chief Creative Officer at WeUsThem, Faten Alshazly has been named Entrepreneur of the Year by the Divas of Colour International Women’s Forum. This award recognizes some of the world’s highest achieving leaders in diverse sectors, and honouring women of colour for their efforts as they navigated challenging circumstances during the pandemic. Faten has been recognized for her outstanding achievements, her creative excellence and inclusive leadership four times this year alone, being named WXN Canada’s Most Powerful Women: Top 100, one of the Top 25 Atlantic Women in Business along with the Women get on Board Award for Eastern Canada. From advocating for workforce diversity to mentoring mid-senior executives and women reintegrating into the workforce, Faten is helping pave the way for young professionals and seasoned leaders through numerous networks like the Women’s Executive Network, Women in STEM, Women In Technology and the Women’s Employment Outreach.
Six awards were distributed to the winning Atlantic Canadian individuals, companies and supporters at Volta’s third annual Ecosystem Impact Awards, proudly supported by RBC. The event took place virtually on September 23. The Ecosystem Impact Awards were launched in 2019 to acknowledge and celebrate the changemakers, community leaders and supporters who are rapidly transforming the startup ecosystem in Atlantic Canada.
The award categories included: Catalyst: Joint Economic Development Initiative Community Leader: Digital Nova Scotia Corporate Supporter: Microsoft Canada Disruptor: Outcast Foods Positive Impact – Organization: Food for Thought Software Solutions Positive Impact – Individual: Alfred Burgesson, Tribe Network
NEW PODCAST TELLS IMPORTANT STORIES Somebody Must Say These Things has been produced for THANS (Transition House Association of Nova Scotia) by Podstarter. It highlights the voices of women who have been the victims of domestic violence and those who help them every day. The purpose of the podcast is to use rich, emotional storytelling to convert listeners into advocates for change. BUSINESS VOICE
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NEWSMAKERS
BRIGADOON’S $12.5 M EXPANSION UNDERWAY
SETTING POLICY GOALS FOR NS LEGISLATURE
WISE CRACKS CELEBRATE THIRTY YEARS
Nova Scotia is home to Canada’s largest not-for-profit pediatric medical camp and it’s growing so more kids can shine on. Brigadoon Village launched its “Shine On!” Capital Campaign on Oct. 21 where it announced a $12.5 million goal for the project. Thanks to generous donors, Brigadoon has so far raised $10.9 million. The camp is now asking the community to join them on the “Shine On” journey to raise the remaining funds by February 1, 2022, in time to welcome campers back to the expanded facility. Funds raised will allow the camp to host more children and provide enhanced accommodations for medical staff. Visit www.shinonforbrigadoon.ca for more information.
As the new sitting of the legislature opens, the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers (NSCSW) has addressed a new open letter to the Premier, his government and all members of the Legislative Assembly, to share the policy goals held by social workers in the province. The open letter provides Nova Scotia’s elected officials with a long list of challenges that the new government must tackle including the housing crisis, climate crisis, health care crisis, substance use and mental health crisis, and crisis in the provision of child welfare. Alec Stratford, executive director and registrar of NSCSW, states, “the challenges arose from prior governments’ lack of resolve to tackle growing income inequality in Nova Scotia, thus that is where this new government can find its solutions.” The open letter cites data on the growth of income inequality, and on its adverse effects on health care, mental health, and provision of child welfare.
Thirty years ago (October) a Maritime success story was born here in Halifax, Nova Scotia. A system and business that would extend coast to coast — from Newfoundland to British Columbia — through franchising. In the basement of the founders in 1991, a basement leak repair company named “Wise Cracks” was born. The main focus of the business is cracks in foundations; while the name may seem funny, they are very serious about what they do. Wise Cracks repairs cracks and defects in basement walls using our proprietary “Wise Seal®” resin sealant, manufactured in-house in Nova Scotia. Co-founder, President and CEO, Andrea Mackey has been at the helm of the company for decades, keeping Wise Cracks #1 at what they do. In fact, they are the recipients of the Consumer Choice award for Foundation Repair ten years in a row.
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NEWSMAKERS
PEOPLECAN TRAINING HIRES FIRST CO-OP STUDENT AND REMOVES BARRIERS TO BUSINESS SUCCESS Debbie Adams, CEO of PeopleCan Training and Development is a legally blind business owner who faces significant barriers to success. She recently attended the in-person Chamber conference with her co-op student Keira Prette who acted as “sighted guide.” The Hire a Co-op Student program funded by provincial and federal government has helped Debbie level the playing field. It has also allowed her to experience the remarkable talent and vision that students bring to business. This won’t be the last hire through this program.
ASSOCIATION OF ATLANTIC UNIVERSITIES APPOINTS NEW CHAIR
ONLINE ACCOUNTANT PRESENTS TO NYSSCPA On November 4, 2021, Louis Buhrmann presented to the New York Society of CPA’S on his journey and how he set up an online Bookkeeping and Accounting Practice. The presentation focused on the use of the online software Dext and Quickbooks Online. Dext is used to collect bookkeeping support via the Dext phone app or by direct email of support to the Dext web app. Quickbooks is used to auto-collect bank information, perform bookkeeping tasks, and perform balance sheet reconciliations.
Prof. Dawn Russell, President and Vice-chancellor, St. Thomas University, Fredericton, NB, has been appointed Chair, Association of Atlantic Universities (AAU). The AAU is an advocacy organization working on behalf of the region’s 16 universities (learn more about the AAU at www.atlanticuniversities.ca). Prof. Russell will lead the AAU for the next two years. She was appointed by her colleagues during the AAU Council’s recent Fall meeting. During AAU Council’s Fall meeting, university Presidents reported a “positive start” to the Fall semester as well as their institutional and collective commitment to promoting “safer COVID-living” on their respective campuses and local communities. “By all accounts, students are happy to be back on campus and return to what would be considered a ‘normal’ university experience of in-classroom learning, campus residence living and the fullrange of activities that make university such a special, life altering experience,” said Prof. Russell. BUSINESS VOICE
TWIRP LAUNCHES SEASON 2 OF #BEFLAWSOME Anita Kirkbride, owner of Twirp Communications Inc., is excited to launch season two of #BeFlawsome: The Good Enough Podcast. Available on most major podcast players, #BeFlawsome encourages entrepreneurs to embrace their flaws, promote their business without shame on social media, and grow it to support the life they truly want to live. Season two is a mix of interviews from inspiring entrepreneurs who are managing their own social media and Anita’s own thoughts on how to improve your social media presence.
NEW ONLINE COURSE OFFERING PowerUp Leadership is starting a new, on-demand course: “How to Launch an Impactful Leadership Coaching Program.” Monthly information webinars will be held to support you and your organization through the launch. We would love to see you there!
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COVER STORY
Big business, big(ger) impact Large employers in HRM support growth of city, economy By Sara Ericsson
Economic diversity is something regions around the world strive for, as varied economic activities grow stronger, more developed economies. This variety is achieved when thriving small and large businesses contribute toward the same economy. The Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) enjoys a great amount of economic diversity for a region of its size. The area brims with small businesses that are so appreciated fans shout their love from the rooftops.
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ur region also boasts large private businesses, built upon innovation, creativity, and teamwork. These businesses produce ripple effects, creating jobs and opportunities in Halifax that otherwise might not occur. Such large businesses include Neocon, Maritime Paper (a division of Scotia Investments), and Oland (a division of Labatt Breweries). We spoke with the leaders of these respected, innovative businesses for insight on how their work impacts our local economy and community.
COVER STORY
There are 350 people on the Neocon team in Nova Scotia, and countless others across North America. Contributed
BUILDING BIG IN HALIFAX Neocon Founder and President Pat Ryan says that when he began pondering building a business in Halifax to take on the automotive sector, he was told it could likely work elsewhere — but not here. Today, nearly three decades later, Neocon has become a major private employer in the HRM, employing around 350 people in Nova Scotia and hundreds more across North America. “Everyone told me why it would never happen here, and the list of reasons
was long,” says Ryan. “But one of my greatest strengths was I didn’t know the difference — I just plowed forward.” The company was founded specifically to help design and build new cars with new features using new techniques. Ryan, a mechanical engineer by trade, was inspired by Halifax’s local engineering talent and connections with Dalhousie University. He was also motivated by the impact local job creation could — and has — had on the community. The home-grown
BUSINESS VOICE
company is now full-service, delivering on concepts, prototypes, designs, and product manufacturing for clients like Toyota, Honda, Hyundai, Nissan, Mazda, Volkswagen, and more — including those in the electric vehicle market. Ryan says this all stems from the think tank that is Neocon’s HRM office. Their Halifax base produces a spinoff effect, which Ryan says is directly related to job creation in the region. Neocon orders shipping materials and packaging from Maritime Paper and
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COVER STORY
Contributed
The team at Maritime Paper, a division of Scotian Investments, includes more than more than 200 people.
uses services from local organizations including the Dartmouth Adult Services Centre. Neocon is also in the midst of a 60,000-square-foot expansion at its Burnside location and, by May 2022, expects to add another 120 people to its workforce. These developments mean big things for Halifax as a city and as an economy, says Ryan. “Big business attracts other big business,” he says. “I think if big business continues to think that way, I believe it’s possible — and a really nice goal — that in 10 years we have 2 million people here. This would double our opportunities to create economic traction, and big business is key to that.” 18
HISTORY MEETS INNOVATION Sheldon Gouthro is President and CEO at Maritime Paper, a division of Scotia Investments that employs more than 200 people at its Burnside location. Having been in business since 1931, Gouthro says the company has long been aware of the need to innovate constantly and consistently over the years in order to remain successful. “We started out by making beverage containers for breweries,” says Gouthro. “And now we manufacture corrugated boxes, serving primarily food and beverage, fishing and agriculture industries. We’re still here after 90 years, which means we Contributed have been able to continue finding ways NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021
to service the market here in Atlantic Canada. We’ve grown beyond Burnside and have manufacturing now in all four Atlantic provinces, with our core business still here in Dartmouth.” As a packaging manufacturer and supplier, Maritime Paper directly supports businesses of all sizes, from tiny stores to multinational breweries like Oland Brewery and Moosehead. “We have a major role in facilitating local business thanks to our relationships and collaboration around packaging materials,” says Gouthro. The company also routinely innovates packaging design and sizes to help companies capitalize on opportunities to grow their business.
COVER STORY “Whether it’s a major export like crab or lobster, or any other product that needs to go in a box, we have a whole graphic design department to support those ideas,” says Gouthro. Such innovation has been all the more necessary to support businesses through the pandemic. “We’ve been an essential service throughout COVID-19, facilitating the continued shipping of products to our local communities and around the world.” One of the benefits of the company’s success, says Gouthro, is that Maritime Paper has become an employer of choice that can not only attract, but retain, talent vital to the region. The company has forged lasting relationships with customers and long-term staff — some are part of families that have worked at the company for generations. Gouthro himself has been with Maritime Paper for more than three decades, beginning in an entrylevel position and working all the way up to his current leadership role. “These are great opportunities for people in the region that provide longterm career development opportunities,” says Gouthro. “We’ve invested a lot to keep modern and create opportunities for our business, staff and local economy.” PART OF THE HALIFAX IDENTITY Wade Keller is the Director of Corporate Affairs in Atlantic Canada for Labatt Breweries, which owns Oland Brewery and Alexander Keith’s Brewery. These key breweries, it’s safe to say, have become woven into the identity of Halifax, says Keller. For over a century, the city and breweries have grown alongside one another. Old photos of the Oland brewery depict its Agricola Street location as one largely surrounded by farmland in 1905. Oland Brewery, and Alexander Keith’s within it, has been a major contributor to the growth seen since those pictures were taken, says Keller. “Oland has been on the same site since 1905,” says Keller. We’ve helped the city grow and we’ve had quite an impact, to be honest. Labatt beers — Bud Light, Schooner Lager, Oland Export Ale, Michelob ULTRA and more — brewed on Agricola Street make up about two thirds of NSLC beer sales. Of the $275 million in NSLC beer sales in the last available annual report, around $180 million came from Oland brewery, which is a significant impact.”
Contributed
Wade Keller is the Director of Corporate Affairs in Atlantic Canada for Labatt Breweries, which owns Oland Brewery and Alexander Keith’s Brewery.
Despite its national and international reach developed over a century in business, the brewery is firmly rooted in Halifax, says Keller. “Many people don’t see us as local. The people who work here are very proud of what they do, and of our long history in Halifax,” he says. “I think this is one thing that sometimes gets overlooked, because Labatt is part of a multinational company.” Keller emphasizes his appreciation for local staff, which has remained relatively steady at around 200 people. Many are from families who have worked with the brewery for generations, says Keller. Since the craft beer craze swept the Maritime region, and Nova Scotia in particular, Keller has noted a lack of recognition for brewing teams that work at larger breweries, like Oland. These teams deserve recognition for their place within the brewing community, says Keller. “When you look at people who work in our brewery and add the value
BUSINESS VOICE
the brewery brings through the sales of our products, you get people who are very proud of the fact that they live and work here and make contributions to their community,” says Keller. “They see themselves as part of the local beer industry.” Annually, says Keller, Oland Brewery spends $15 million on wages and $30 million on goods and services — between $8 and $10 million will be spent this year alone in capital upgrades at the Agricola Street brewery. The local impact of these expenditures demonstrates how the brewery has become a significant contributor to the regional and provincial economies. “There’s no question about the value of small businesses in the province. I think there is also an equal value that should be placed on medium or large businesses,” says Keller. “The model for a successful, strong economy is finding that right mix of both.” ■
OCTOBER 2021
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SECONDARY STORY
Hiring with intention DEN aims to match African Nova Scotian candidates with local businesses By Judith Kays
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he harsh and tragic realities of the past few years have promptly forced companies and organizations to try to create a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) within their workforce. As a public, most of us value brands that take DEI seriously and authentically. However, more times than not, outdated hiring practices and unconscious biases, among other things, can make it difficult for diverse applicants to be successfully hired. Idy Fashoranti is hoping to change that norm. Her social enterprise, Diversity Employment Network (DEN), opened just over a year ago, and seeks to not only match qualified candidates who are persons of colour with businesses who need great talent and want to diversity their workforce, but her team also offers training and strategic planning for companies wanting to develop a fulsome and inclusive hiring policy. “Adding diverse voices and a wide range of experiences to the culture of a workforce increases engagement and builds a safe and inclusive space for meaningful connections to be made,” Fashoranti says. “Employers want to strengthen their organization’s diversity, and job seekers of colour are looking for the right opportunity to contribute their skills and expertise.” As a Black Business Consulting initiative, DEN offers services like board governance training, diversity coaching, mentorship, and helps candidates find roles in organizations that value unique and diverse perspectives. DEN acts as a hub for skilled African Nova Scotians, businesses, government associations, and community organizations to come together in mutually beneficial business partnerships. “We want to improve the career trajectories of people in the African Nova Scotian community, who have long been under-represented in the workforce, says Fashoranti. “By charging employers a fee for our service, we’re able to provide support to job seekers, like employability readiness training and job search assistance, which will help shift this imbalance.”
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Only two months on the job, Evelyn Olaiya has already proven her worth and Shane Kennedy is grateful for the recruiting help he received from DEN.
Many businesses are putting significant effort into their diversity, equity and inclusion policies, including developing staffing plans that reflect and mirror the world around them. Business leaders and hiring managers would also admit the process isn’t an overnight transition. There are many factors to take into account that can affect normal hiring practices and a company’s efforts to diversify their workforce. The Co-operators organization, for example, has a strategy to prioritize inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility. “We see the value in reflecting and supporting the strengths of the communities we serve,” says Shane Kennedy, financial advisor with Co-operators in Dartmouth. “We know there is a direct link between our success in doing business and the healthy, inclusive, and equitable work culture we have achieved together.” NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021
Kennedy says that while they are always on the lookout for top talent, he recently spent months trying to find qualified candidates for a senior growth position with the company. He says the employment posting had the same language as always, inviting applicants from diverse backgrounds. However, he just wasn’t getting the right people to apply, no matter what their background was. Things changed for Kennedy when he was introduced to Fashoranti and her team at DEN. “After discussing the type of candidate we were looking for, and given our organizational culture and the opportunity for growth, Idy helped us source individuals who might fit the bill,” Kennedy says. “The quality of talent was impressive and ultimately we hired Evelyn Olaiya as an associate insurance advisor, who has quickly become a strong addition to the team.”
SECONDARY STORY the client? If a person of colour sees only One thing that Fashoranti doesn’t Olaiya seems to be fitting in very white people associated with a particular want to see is the concept of “token well and says that working with the Black company, they may not even apply, even hiring” — a quick-fix to diversity — which Business Initiative and DEN helped to though they could be perfectly qualified is why DEN offers employers and job eliminate challenges she could have and interested in the position. seekers more than just a match. DEN faced when looking for a professional Fashoranti says that the biggest chalensures that the fit is right by facilitating position. “I was assigned to an employlenge is getting organizations and comthe matches personally, based on qualiment specialist who helped to create a panies to reach out to her ahead of their fications, experience and opportunities. special plan of action in getting a job that job postings. “We can help employers DEN also helps organizations realize I was qualified for and interested in,” she develop a DEI strategy that aligns with the ways in which they can welcome and says. “From resume building to employtheir business goals,” she says. “We work retain these employees through inclusion ment counselling, they helped with all with business leaders to address their and engagement. of it and were swift and proactive in the challenges and help develop opportuniGrateful for the opportunity as a process, helping me look for the right fit ties for people of colour who are not only newly-hired female, person of colour based on my needs and career growth.” in a traditionally white DEI experts claim male-dominated industhat posting positions try, Olaiya is fitting the same way as before We see the value in reflecting and supporting in very well to a posiisn’t necessarily going the strengths of the communities we serve.” tion that she’s earned. to encourage applicants from diverse and tradi— Shane Kennedy, Financial Advisor, Co-operators “Finding meaningful work that you are qualitionally under-represented fied for is key,” she says. backgrounds to apply. ready, willing and able to work, but who “Sometimes you need to get out of your Companies may need to adjust their are likely some of the best candidates.” comfort zone, and seek help when you hiring practices to work towards creatHiring managers, human resource need it.” ing a more inclusive workplace. Many professionals and recruiters can benefit Kennedy has this advice for compabusinesses have historically lacked a focus from engaging DEN in their staffing stratnies who want to make a conscious effort on trying to create diversity within their egies. “There are a great number of excepto explore their current staffing policies organizations and companies. There’s no tionally skilled people of colour in Nova and make impactful changes. “Not only blame to be found – it’s just that people Scotia and organizations need to find is it the right thing to do, it’s a key success tend to look for the best candidate and ways to tap into the talent pool that is right strategy for business growth,” he says. put out a generic job posting with a note here,” Fashoranti says. “The pandemic “By removing barriers in the hiring proat the bottom stating their openness to has further displaced many people in the cess, you are ultimately opening yourself hiring people from diverse backgrounds. Black community who have been and up to a deeper pool of top talent, and a However, companies need to go further. continue to be unemployed and underwider array of perspectives that can help They need to look at things like their employed, and more than ever before, we you grow as a business and better meet brand image, who is pictured on their ads need to get our people back to work.” the needs of your community.” ■ or their websites and who is pictured as
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MEMBER PROFILE
Photos contributed
“I’m worth being here” A profile of the Dartmouth Adult Services Centre By Emily Bednarz
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or 55 years, the Dartmouth Adult Services Centre (DASC) has been serving adults with intellectual disabilities. The organization aims to provide a modern, supportive, and inclusive work environment and training center for their clients. Their facilities in Burnside include a welcoming production floor where program participants, with support staff, work on various business contracts. They produce buttons and provide packaging, mailing, and assembly services for local groups and businesses. I recently visited DASC to speak with their Executive Director, Henk van Leeuwen, to learn more about DASC’s community, history, and programs.
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CHAMPIONING DIVERSITY IN THE WORKFORCE DASC’s programs were created by an “identification of a gap in service or community need and by trying our best to match a particular business stream with the skill and ability of our participants,” says van Leeuwen. DASC has a number of longstanding contracts with loyal customers and community partners, like Maritime Paper, Eastlink, and Neocon. I ask van Leeuwen what he would say to someone just discovering DASC. Why should they consider using their services? His answer highlights incredible benefits that go beyond the bottom line. NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021
“Whether they’re investing their ideas, time, or a potential contract with us, they’re investing in inclusivity,” he says. “They’re investing in the removal of barriers and they’re investing in the personal and professional growth for persons with intellectual disabilities. They’re investing in self-empowerment. They’re investing in self-esteem. They’re investing in the growth and the potential of every individual person here.” DASC provides a meaningful way of incorporating diversity and inclusion into your workplace. “You’re part of a of a movement to remove barriers,” says van Leeuwen. “You’re part of a movement to enhance and promote accessibility. You’re
MEMBER PROFILE
They’re investing in the removal of barriers and they’re investing in the personal and professional growth for persons with intellectual disabilities.” — Henk van Leeuwen, Executive Director, DASC
Henk van Leeuwen, Executive Director, Dartmouth Adult Services Centre (DASC)
DASC promotes a sense of belonging for adults with intellectual disabilities. Read more about their values and programs at dasc-ns.ca.
part of a movement to fully embrace everyone’s abilities and aspirations.” Being a part of this movement directly impacts the lives of DASC’s clients. “Many of our clients, through our programs, have found work in the community,” says van Leeuwen. “When I hear from clients who are working at an employer like Old Navy or Sobeys, they feel an enormous sense of pride and accomplishment. You’re helping someone feel ownership of their own destiny, which is a very powerful thing.” Henk shares a testimonial from Leighanne, one of their clients who recently started working at Old Navy. “I love what I do,” she says. “Coming here, to see my associates, it makes me proud. It makes me happy. It makes me feel like I’m worth it. I’m worth being here.”
Henk adds: “If you’re hiring someone with a different ability, you’re demonstrating to your workforce that not everyone’s abilities look or feel or sound the same. You’re showing your team and the community what diversity can look and feel like.” NAVIGATING THE PANDEMIC The impact of the pandemic was particularly acute for DASC’s staff and clients. “It’s challenging for all of us to navigate our way through a pandemic,” says van Leeuwen. “But if you live in a residential care facility or group home because of a different ability or a barrier, it was profoundly devastating.” The DASC team worked diligently to combat the isolation their clients felt during periods of lockdown. “Through BUSINESS VOICE
the pandemic, there were short bursts of time when our program participants could not come here due to COVID-19 protocols,” says van Leeuwen. “We had to transition temporarily from a business center to an outreach service. There were virtual programs, like dance and yoga online. There were zoom chats, and there was a pen pal program. Some of our staff visited our program participants and talked to them at a safe distance.” The DASC team also rallied to fill the gaps in service contracts. In the first wave of COVID-19, DASC clients couldn’t come to the facility; but after a few months, staff were able to return and help keep orders on track. “Typically, it’s our program participants who work on the contracts,” says van Leeuwen. “They’re the ones making the buttons. But when our program participants couldn’t come in, our staff jumped in. They went from being support professionals and program leaders to making the buttons themselves. They were doing the packaging, the mailouts.” As he speaks, van Leeuwen’s appreciation of the DASC team is palpable. “Everyone just pitched in—they didn’t even pause or hesitate for a second,” he says. “To me, that was one of the success stories coming out of the pandemic for us — that we were able to maintain our level of business contracts and that was because of our team. They’re dedicated, they’re professional, and they’re experts in inclusivity, empathy, and support.” 23
MEMBER PROFILE TELLING DASC’S STORY The Nova Scotia government has committed to becoming a completely accessible province by 2030. “Part of that, I think, is making sure that persons with different abilities are visible,” says van Leeuwen. “That they’re seen, that they’re heard, that they feel that they can contribute, and that they can participate in telling their story.” A familiar story at DASC’s annual meetings is about the waitlist. “There’s
an enormous waitlist for programs like ours in the community,” says van Leeuwen. “We recently moved someone off a waitlist and into one of our programs. They had been on the wait list since 1992. This, to me, is illustrative of the challenge in our community to find programs that suit everyone’s needs.” Throughout our discussion, van Leeuwen highlights how belonging is fostered through storytelling. “I fundamentally believe that DASC belongs to our
MEET A DASC CLIENT:
LINDSAY CRANDALL
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indsay steps into van Leeuwen’s office, wearing a matching leopard print top and face mask. She has dark, shoulder length hair and a handful of gorgeous tattoos — one of a rose and one of an Aquarius sign. She is both beaming and shyly smiling, holding her hands together as she catches her breath. She seems excited and a bit nervous. Lindsay lives in Dartmouth, and she has been working at DASC for the past three years. In her spare time, she likes to visit Shubie Park to feed the chickadees by hand. The team at DASC has helped Lindsay secure a number of jobs in the community. She’s worked at Marshall’s, a bridal store (her favourite), and she’s currently volunteering at a local Senior’s Centre. How does Lindsay feel to be at DASC? “Good — this is a place that I can go and work.” She adds that the number one thing she’s learned as DASC is “to work with other people.” She talks about a job application the DASC team recently helped her complete. She got an interview, and even though she didn’t land the job, she is ready to keep on the job search. We talk about the impact of the pandemic on Lindsay. What was it like when DASC was closed? “Not good,” she says. “I was really bored. It felt good to be able to come back and have something to do every day.” She adds details about the public health precautions DASC has taken since re-opening: “We have a sheet of paper that tells you which cohort you’re in,” she says. “We have different coloured buttons and different break times.” On the DASC production floor, Lindsay is currently working on car part assembly for Neocon. Lindsay works
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This is a really good place to work, It helps people who have learning disabilities find a place that they can go to work and make friends.” — Lindsay Crandall,
DASC Client
either independently or as part of a team of 2-3 people. I ask her whether she prefers working as part of a team or on her own. She smiles slyly, raises an eyebrow at van Leeuwen, and says “independently.” She laughs at her own cheekiness. But when I ask her what the best part about working at DASC is, she says that it’s getting to work with the friends she has made on the team. I ask Lindsay whether there is anything that she would want to tell someone who is reading her story. Her answer is NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021
program participants,” he says. “It belongs to their families and caregivers that need a safe, supportive space for a loved one to go. And for them to feel included and have an opportunity to reach their full potential. Part of that philosophy is that it’s my job to make sure that they feel empowered to tell the story of DASC, because it’s theirs. We help nearly 200 people annually, and they’ve each got a story.” With that, Henk invites Lindsay Crandall to join the conversation.
immediate. “This is a really good place to work,” she says. “Its helps people who have learning disabilities find a place that they can go to work and make friends.” As we wrap up our interview, Lindsay asks whether we will be taking her picture. She is filled with excitement at the prospect, and van Leeuwen graciously offers to take a photo of Lindsay on the production floor. A staff member pops by to let us know that Lindsay is going to be a bit late for her next volunteer shift at the Senior’s Centre, since she took the time to speak with us this morning. But, she adds, Lindsay is still eager to have the photo taken. Van Leeuwen ducks onto the production floor to snap a shot. When he returns, van Leeuwen gives me a tour of the boardrooms. They are gorgeous, spacious, and equipped with every technical support you could need for a meeting. Just outside of the boardrooms is a circular corkboard, dotted with buttons from past and present made by DASC clients. A client approaches us to point out the buttons he made. As we walk back to the lobby, he asks Henk for his thoughts on his “latest missive,” and Henk explains that the client is an avid storyteller, a novelist working on a story about sail boating. I can’t help but feel sad to exit the building. The space is so bright, lively, and welcoming. As I walk back to my car, a DASC van pulls up to the building to shuttle a client to their next appointment. I think about Lindsay heading out to volunteer. Henk said that one of his priorities is to help clients tell their stories. There are so many to tell. ■
To donate to DASC, explore their services, or book a boardroom rental, visit dasc-ns.ca
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The french funnel “Please press 2 for service in French”
The ability to serve clients in French gives businesses a competitive edge in capturing a market share of the francophone population in Nova Scotia.”
ÉDOUARD MILOT MARKETING AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT OFFICER, ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE HALIFAX
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ow many times have you skipped this option on a phone call? Perhaps dozens of times, if not more. It’s understandable. English might be your first language — or at least the one you use every day in your business. However, many people in Nova Scotia and Canada are thrilled when they hear this option. They know they can be provided with a service in their first language and therefore, feel included. What about French-speakers looking for business recommendations via social media? A business that can communicate with clients in French may be more likely to secure a transaction. It may also reap the benefits of positive publicity within the French-speaking community. Word travels fast in the community and you can’t beat free publicity. The ability to serve clients in French gives businesses a competitive edge in capturing a market share of the francophone population in Nova Scotia. Such businesses are also on track to gain customer loyalty in a niche market, where good business is about relationships. We call this the “French Funnel” — a way of guiding a niche market to your business. A purchasing decision can be viewed as a reaction in three acts. The first act involves emotions: a buyer desires a product or service. The second act involves trust: the buyer evaluates
the credibility of the product or service. The third act involves logic: the buyer uses reasoning to validate a purchasing decision and seal a deal. A business capable of serving a French-speaking client in their preferred language is in a strong position to guide — or funnel — the client from the initial emotional phase to the critical trust phase. French-speakers appreciate the feeling of comfort that comes from being served in their first language, even if they can speak and understand English. Moving to the third phase is about meeting the client’s rational needs and expectations regarding the specific product or service.
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You might ask: What about the training costs to businesses for employees to learn French? Being able to serve a clientele in their preferred language should be regarded as a long-term investment that can be put to good use as a marketing tool. Professional development is part and parcel of any business that wants to keep up with market and technological developments. Why not view language training the same way? We suggest starting with the low hanging fruit: graduates from immersion or French schools who have a solid language base. While many languages are spoken in the Halifax Regional Municipality, why not start with French — Canada’s other official language? ■
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TRENDS
Being accountable on social media Consumers expect full transparency and brands must deliver
EMILY VINCENT SOCIAL MEDIA CREATOR, REVOLVE
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rowing up, we learned the consequences of not being accountable and taking responsibility. Whether it was losing our phone for a week or getting detention after school, there was always a lesson learned when we broke the rules. We may not have known it at the time, but these consequences taught us the importance of being accountable for our actions. TRANSPARENCY In recent years, we’ve seen brands taking responsibility, especially online, when consumers are offended by their actions. We are in a pivotal time as consumers simply don’t know where to go for reliable information. Trust on social media is at an all-time low. As a result, communication and marketing standards are higher than ever. As consumers expect full transparency, brands must deliver. Online users will quickly and loudly call out brands on social media, which is why a positive perception through transparent messaging is vital to protecting a brand and mitigating risk. Healthy relationships and online conversations with consumers will lead to long-term trust.
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AUTHENTICITY Social media is where consumers expect the greatest level of authenticity. The fourth wall has been eliminated, and consumers are pushing brands toward creative ways of communicating transparency. Properly planned and executed, social media marketing can build more authentic connections between a brand and their audience, especially when the brand takes a strategic approach in what they communicate. LISTEN Brands need to listen to consumers to understand what they want and need. If a brand receives criticisms, they should respond quickly and make good on promises. Consumers don’t expect perfection, but they do expect mistakes to be corrected in a way that shows the brand cares. But don’t fall prey to the prevalent cancel culture that grew during the pandemic, where activists boycott brands — sometimes for good reason and sometimes not. Revolve has worked with many brands, large and small, who were attacked online and quickly noticed the impact on their bottom line as online trolls piled on.
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RESPONSIBILITY Taking a stance is admirable, but it isn’t enough. It’s essential to take responsibility. Show how your brand is making good on its promises and measuring performance. This can be done by taking issues your brand has a stance on and incorporating those perspectives in your business and culture. Social media lessons continue to be learned everyday, but brands who set themselves up to be trusted through transparency, authenticity, and responsibility will be rewarded with advocacy and support when they do have a misstep online. ■ Emily Vincent is a Social Media Creator at Revolve Branding and brings engaging digital storytelling to our social services. She helps ensure our clients are authentically creative in their content strategies. Brands like TIMBER MART, Kohltech Windows & Doors, Red Wing Canada, Fish Nova Scotia, and more, benefit from her creative and strategic approach.
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The one organ crucial to success in business and life How we can live longer, feel better and work smarter
Your brain is connected to mental, spiritual, social and financial realms, and all must be in balance.”
DR. CHRISTINE SAUER, MD, ND (GER)
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ost of us strive to be successful at work or in business, but what does “success” actually mean? Success is an imprecise, yet allencompassing word. The dictionary defines success as “the accomplishment of an aim or purpose” or “the attainment of fame, wealth, or social status.” The latter definition, financial success or fame, is what most people associate with success. But what does success mean to you? I’ll bet that you have tried many things to improve the outcomes of your business by taking classes, courses, workshops, and seminars. And that is wonderful! But I also bet that you may have never really thought about how success applies to your physical, mental, social, and spiritual health. You many have never deeply considered how to achieve this kind of success — or considered the one organ that is crucial to true success and happiness, whether at work or in your private life. I am, of course, talking about your brain! You may say: “I know about the brain. I took meditation and mindfulness classes, I do yoga, I do positive thinking
and read self-development books.” And that is also great! But here is the thing: most people don’t realize that your brain influences everything you are and everything you do. Brains run the stock market, businesses, countries, and the local market. Brains run relationships (sometimes into the ground). Brains connect you with the environment and your spiritual side. Brains run … you! The overall functioning of your brain determines the quality of your decisions, and your decisions determine your success in life and work. In every moment, in everything you do, you are changing your brain and your life – for better or the worse. MRI studies have shown that your brain makes your decisions a very small fraction of time before you actually become aware of the fact that you made the decision. Neuroplasticity doesn’t refer to an abstract process; it refers to the fact that your brain adapts to all you do and changes itself constantly, even as you age. Your brain is connected to mental, spiritual, social and financial realms, and all must be in balance. One of my mentors and teachers is Dr. Daniel Amen
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MD, a double board-certified psychiatrist based in the United States. You may have read one of his many New York Times bestselling books like Change Your Brain, Change Your Life. He has been using SPECT imaging for over 30 years to assess brain function and behavior associated with mental illness. And here is the good news, according to Dr. Daniel Amen: “You are not stuck with the brain you have. You can make it better. And I can prove it.” At DocChristine, we developed the Brain Power System to help Individuals optimize their brain. Visit thebrainpowersystem.com for free training. Plus, as members of Dr. Amen’s teaching team, we are authorized to utilize Dr. Amen’s groundbreaking courses. Check them out at brainwarriors.ca. ■ We look forward to servicing the needs of our business community. Members of Halifax Chamber of Commerce and their employees currently receive 20% off our Brain Power System Program! If you have any questions, please contact us at info@DocChristine.com.
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TRENDS
Less time in the conference room, better training eLearning and hybrid learning in the small – medium sized business market
Incorporating eLearning into your training can save you time, save you money and even provide better learning outcomes.” ROB BELLIVEAU FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT, NEONTRAIN INC.
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e’ve all been there. You most likely got up early because it’s not the typical workday. You’re going to a conference room. There are pastries and subpar coffee, or nothing at all. You’re disappointed there aren’t even mediocre snacks. Through the pandemic, we’ve had a break from experiencing training this way, but it’s also given companies time to think: is this the best way to help our people learn? These days, most businesses, organizations, or non-profits either have training in their mandate, or they have internal training for new employees. Each year, more independent contractors provide specialized training as part of their services to clients, helping fill niche knowledge gaps. Whether it’s onboarding training, training clients based in your subject matter expertise, or issue-specific training to create the culture or growth you want at your company, we’ve all dealt with training at work, and we’ve all said to ourselves: “there has to be a better way.” Incorporating eLearning into your training can save you time, save you money and even provide better learning
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outcomes. Each learner gets to go at their own pace, reviewing content as they need. We avoid the downfalls of the boardroom training session, where some are bored at the same time as others struggle to keep up. eLearning lets everyone go at their own pace and set the same foundation. When you do need an in-person, or live online session with an instructor, eLearning ensures everyone has had their time to review materials and start from a shared understanding. This combined method is called hybrid learning, where you incorporate eLearning while maintaining elements of in-person or live education. It is becoming increasingly popular in every industry. With hybrid learning, your instructor’s time can be spent leading discussions — answering those harder questions or demonstrating hands-on skills, instead of “explaining the basics” for the 100th time. This hybrid approach has proved effective for everyone from fire fighters to charity volunteers, helping any small or medium-sized organization maximize their resources while achieving the best learning outcomes.
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Once we understand the problems eLearning can solve, we still have to know how to get there. Content doesn’t create itself, and PowerPoints thrown in a shared space aren’t eLearning. This is where an external expert can transfer your knowledge into dynamic content, build it from scratch with your expert guidance, or train your team to create amazing eLearning. Many businesses have started to see how investing in customized learning solutions now will save money long-term by reducing repetitive costs for food, travel, facilitation or venue. And we can’t ignore the work life balance that eLearning can help provide your clients. The flexibility of online learning allows people to set their own schedules, reduces stress around commuting or childcare, and lets them adapt their learning timeline to their lives. As evidenced in this past year, balance helps people bring their best to everything they do, much more than unreasonable expectations and inflexible schedules. ■ For local eLearning Solutions, contact Chamber Member NeonTrain Inc.
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Discover Halifax
What’s next for Halifax Creating a city with education and economic opportunities open to all
WENDY LUTHER PRESIDENT & CEO, HALIFAX PARTNERSHIP
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merging from the global pandemic, Halifax has a palpable energy, excitement, and incredible momentum. Our city is taking its place alongside the best in the world thanks to the ongoing collaboration, hard work, and investment of engaged companies, organizations, and all orders of government. As we celebrate Halifax Partnership’s 25th Anniversary, we are looking ahead and planning for the future. The Partnership is leading the development of Halifax’s next economic growth plan for 2022-27 with the Halifax Regional Municipality and in collaboration with
our many partners and stakeholders throughout the city. The new growth plan will be our city’s shared roadmap for economic development over the next five years, founded on the values of alignment, partnership, engagement, and inclusion. The plan will build upon Halifax’s strengths and set a shared vision and measurable actions and outcomes to create prosperity for all Halifax businesses and residents. Over the past year, the Partnership has been bringing together private sector, government, and community leaders to share ideas that will build a more inclusive, sustainable, resilient, and prosperous Halifax. This work has been done in tandem with implementing Halifax’s COVID-19 Economic Response and Recovery Plan to help Halifax businesses and residents respond to and weather the impacts of the global pandemic. Coming into 2020, Halifax was experiencing record economic and population growth. We welcomed more than 9,000 new residents last year, making Halifax the second-fastest growing city in the country and keeping us on track to meet our growth targets. Although Halifax has fared comparatively well, the pandemic has dealt substantial economic and social blows. BUSINESS VOICE
Our small businesses — particularly those in the tourism, retail, and hospitality sectors — need our support, as do our residents affected by the pressing issues of affordability, attainable housing, and economic inequality. Coming out of this challenging time, Halifax will have a new economic plan and vision in place for the future. Our economy is forecasted to rebound strongly with GDP growth of over 5% in 2021, setting us on the path to restoring Halifax’s long-term growth trends and momentum. This is great news. However, we are not aiming to grow Halifax for growth’s sake. Collectively, we are asking ourselves, if Halifax were recognized as the most inclusive city in North America five years from now, what would be different from today? If we are going to achieve Halifax’s economic potential, what are our best opportunities for growth that are aligned to our values and vision for the city? Collaboration and engagement with diverse voices and sectors are essential to the development of the new growth plan. The private sector plays a critical role in shaping a shared vision for our city and building a better Halifax for all. We invite you to share your insights and ideas by visiting www.whatsnexthalifax.com. ■ 29
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Taking time off A Chamber perspective on sick time and mental health support
KATHLEEN MacEACHERN SENIOR POLICY ANALYST, HALIFAX CHAMBER
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ach year, the Halifax Chamber of Commerce submits a policy resolution to the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. If adopted, the Canadian Chamber would then look to add the issue to their portfolio of advocacy work. This year our resolution focused on sick days and mental health, and the necessity for paid sick time provided by the Federal government. We are hopeful that we will soon see a movement towards mandated paid-sick time, but until we do, we hope our resolution can bring this issue to the forefront of government dialogues and business meetings across Canada.
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2021 CANADIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RESOLUTION If we have learned anything from the pandemic, it’s that our health is never to be taken for granted. Businesses rely on healthy people not only to work for their organization but to consume their goods and services. Prior to COVID-19, employees would often go to work sick, especially if paid sick-time was not available. We know employees want their workplaces going forward to be a safe space where employers take health seriously and mitigate the risk of exposure and spread. Recently, the Government of Nova Scotia implemented up to four paid sick days for COVID-19 related illnesses. “We want employees to stay home if they are feeling unwell and follow public health protocols to help reduce the spread of COVID,” said Premier Iain Rankin. “Paid sick leave means they won’t have to make a difficult decision between their health and the health of others, or their financial well-being.” While Nova Scotians are optimistic about this program, it is a shortterm solution for a larger, long-term and NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021
potentially ongoing problem. The Federal Government needs to take a more significant role in providing paid sick leave for Canadian employees to keep workplaces healthy and safe, post-pandemic. It might be hard to believe but “Canada ranks in the bottom quarter globally when it comes to providing paid sick leave for workers on the first day of illness, according to the DWHN report.” Mandated sick days are legally required only in Quebec and PEI, leaving many Canadian employees (and employers) at risk for having to attend work sick. If left unchecked, this situation could be detrimental to not only the health of employees but the employer’s business as well. It is no secret that both our physical and mental health are important for healthy and thriving organizations and it is well known that the two are linked. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines health as a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. It states that “there is no health without mental health.”
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Paid sick time increases a worker’s stability and the average productivity of employees decreases by 20 per cent when working sick.”
The numbers across Canada do not fare as well, with 58 per cent of workers across Canada not having access to paid sick leave, which jumps to 70 per cent for low-wage workers. With health being a provincial mandate/responsibility, it is natural to advocate individual provincial governments to implement changes in sick day policy. Unfortunately, issues like political will and lengthy legislative amendments would not make this an appealing process for our provincial leaders. If Canadian provincial governments will not step up to support funding mandated paid sick-time, we believe the Federal Government should guarantee Canadians can have a healthy workplace and/or the ability to stay home when ill. This is not only for the benefit
of the employee but the employer — our members who are the heart of Canadian chambers. In fact, 76 per cent of employers who took our survey indicated they would pay employees for additional sick days, granted they receive reimbursement from EI. A program wherein businesses could be reimbursed for greater than three to four days of paid sick time makes good health and economic sense. Paid sick time increases a worker’s stability and the average productivity of employees decreases by 20 per cent when working sick. Therefore, paid sick time lowers the costs associated with missed time, backlogs and new hires. As the Nova Scotia’s Chief Medical Officer often says, good health policy is good economic policy. ■
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At the Halifax Chamber, we recently surveyed our members on their opinion about sick time, mental health, and the impact of COVID-19 on both. We learned that the pandemic has played a significantly negative role on those in the workforce. Of those surveyed; • 55 per cent have said their mental health has been negatively impacted by the pandemic • 10 per cent said it had a positive impact. • 54 per cent of employers indicated mental health days are included in their sick days • 30 per cent indicated they have mental health days in addition to sick days. • 63 per cent are supportive of the Federal Government’s plan to introduce 10 sick days as part of Employee Insurance (EI) benefits, citing its likelihood to encourage employees to stay at home when sick, ensure employees are paid when sick, and help businesses that can’t afford paid sick-time. BUSINESS VOICE
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A skill building process
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Government of Nova Scotia offers workplace incentives
WIPSI — CONTRIBUTED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOUR, SKILLS AND IMMIGRATION
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nderstanding and improving process is one of the major building blocks attached to long-term business growth and profitability. Another factor aiding business growth is the successful adoption of advanced manufacturing techniques and digitization. Canada ranks poorly in both technology adoption and innovation in manufacturing compared to other economies (Embracing Change: Industry 4.0 & Canada’s Digital Future in Manufacturing, CME). The Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium (EMC) in Nova Scotia saw an opportunity to address these challenges through a partnership with Labour, Skills & Immigration (LSI) and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA). “The ‘Lean Leader’ program was born from this need to build capacity in our region in both understanding process and improving it. Increasing the likelihood that these companies will make better informed technology adoption decisions in the future,” says Sue Elliott of EMC. The training, supported by the Workplace Innovation and Productivity Skills Incentive (WIPSI), took participants from 10 companies through
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Working on real problems through ‘Workplace Performance Projects’ makes all the difference, as the learning had real-world application that was immediate and identifiable.” — Sue Elliott, EMC
continuous improvement activity to help sector firms become more productive, reduce enterprise-wide costs, and engage sustainable solutions key to their success. WIPSI is a Nova Scotia funding incentive for employers and industry associations looking to invest in training employees to improve productivity and innovation. WIPSI is dedicated to providing the support that employers need to build a skilled and adaptable workforce. Unlike many training initiatives, companies identified and worked on real workplace problems with a defined return on investment (ROI). “Working on real problems through ‘Workplace Performance Projects’ makes all the difference, as the learning had real-world application that was immediate and identifiable,’ says Elliott. Enhancing productivity skills and knowledge transfer results in a better trained sector workforce with an NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021
improved ability to utilize good manufacturing practices and lean methods. The biggest takeaway from this collaboration between EMC, LSI, and ACOA was the ROI from the Workplace Performance Projects. The cohort collectively saved over $4 million in ROI through their projects. This return came in the form of saving, improved capacity, and cost avoidance. The program also touched over 200 members of the sector through regularly scheduled events, setting the stage for more buy-in for this type of training and development. ■
If you are interested in learning more about the available funding to support improvements in productivity and innovation, take a look into the WIPSI program at: Workplace Innovation and Productivity Skills Incentive — Government of Nova Scotia, Canada
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A walk through time
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Why you need to attend a Blanket Exercise
Education is the key to understanding and celebrating our differences. Attending and immersing yourself in a Blanket Exercise is one path toward reconciliation.”
BECKY DAVISON VP MARKETING, HALIFAX CHAMBER
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n the afternoon of October 25th, I attended my first Blanket Exercise with the wonderful and charismatic Shannon Monk. The Chamber staff, along with the Accessing a Skilled Workforce Taskforce, had been toying with the idea of hosting a Blanket Exercise for a few months. Then the announcement of Truth and Reconciliation Day was announced across the country. It was time to stop talking about hosting the event, and make it happen. Shannon Monk, owner of Sakatay Global, has been a member of the Chamber of Commerce for a few years. She participated in Chamber events like ‘Wonder Women’ in the past, and she was an amazing resource for us as we learned how to host our own Blanket Exercise. Like all events during COVID, our dates got shuffled. We had conversations around vaccinations and masks before we finally set a date and invited our staff, volunteers, and members to join this unexpected journey with us. Close to 60 participants joined us at Pier 21 to learn about the history of injustices done to our Indigenous peoples and what reconciliation truly means today. Shannon was our host, but she brought along a team to help execute the event. We began our day with a smudging ceremony and a land acknowledgment. Chris Googoo, Chief Operating Officer, Ulnooweg and Chamber Board Director, welcomed our guests on behalf of Ulnooweg and the Halifax Chamber.
The room was set up in a circle of chairs, with about twenty blankets on the floor in the middle of the circle, all touching and slightly overlapping. We were told that these blankets were representative of Turtle Island. We were then asked to write names of loved ones under 16 years of age on a pink piece of paper and carry them with us. Many of us were also given a scroll to read, when prompted. There was a little time of simply listening before we all rose to our feet, took off our shoes, and chose a blanket to stand on. Shannon and her team filled the roles of European settlers and narrators of Indigenous history, moving through time. The exercise began in the 1400s, the period of early colonialization. We each read our scripts, which often contained brutal facts about how Indigenous populations were vastly decimated over hundreds of years. Some of us lost our loved ones (represented by the names we wrote on our pink pieces of paper). The names were taken from us with little regard. As history unfolded, the blankets grew smaller. We were told to vacate our blanket and return to our chairs. Some were asked to leave because of disease, starvation, two-spirit identities or because they were placed in residential schools. Our group of 60 people soon whittled down to less than 10. The blankets were almost all removed. At the end of the exercise, the remaining 10 people were left isolated on tiny portions of land and without loved ones. It felt unfathomable, and I held back tears trying to process that this was part of Canada’s history. This is truly an experiential learning method, and it’s something that nonIndigenous people need to experience BUSINESS VOICE
to understand what Indigenous populations have experienced over hundreds of years. We completed the day with a discussion on how we felt afterwards. The vulnerability and openness of people I’ve known for years, and people I had met that day, floored me. We all come from different places with different experiences. Listening to some of the firsthand experiences of people in the room broke my heart. It broke my heart, but it also allowed me to understand and gave me a different view of the challenges that are still prevalent today. I believe we are making progress in reconciliation, even since I was in high school in the 1990s. However, pausing to learn and listen to the original landowners of our nation, to be truly empathetic, is something that Indigenous peoples deserve. We need to make time for it. Education is the key to understanding and celebrating our differences. Attending and immersing yourself in a Blanket Exercise is one path toward reconciliation. Please watch for our next Blanket Exercise, which we plan to host annually, in September. ■
RESOURCES: Sakatay Global: sakatay-global.teachable.com Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre: mymnfc.com Ulnooweg: ulnooweg.ca RECOMMENDED BOOKS: A Mind Spread Out on the Ground by Alicia Elliott Five Little Indians: A Novel by Michelle Good 21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act by Bob Joseph My Conversations with Canadians by Lee Maracle Moon of the Crusted Snow by Waubgeshig Rice Seven Fallen Feathers by Tanya Talaga From the Ashes by Jesse Thistle
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Sowing the seeds of success How CEED gives entrepreneurs the tools they need to succeed
PAULA LEHR & CRAIG MACMULLIN, CEED
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or over 25 years, the Centre for Entrepreneurship Education and Development (CEED) has been empowering and advancing entrepreneurs in Nova Scotia. CEED supports innovative ideas, creative enterprises, and scalable strategies through our programs and partnerships. Our goal is to help build successful and innovative businesses that contribute to a vibrant and entrepreneurial Nova Scotia. We pride ourselves on being the
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Our goal is to help build successful and innovative businesses that contribute to a vibrant and entrepreneurial Nova Scotia.”
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place where early-stage entrepreneurs can access the knowledge and expertise they need to begin their journey, grow their current business, or take their idea to the next level. The COVID-19 pandemic created significant challenges for small, locally owned urban businesses. But we were able to continue helping entrepreneurs without missing a beat, quickly pivoting program delivery and strategies. CEED offers startup and expansion loans, but we were also proud to help administer the Urban Main Street Loan Initiative (UMSLI). UMSLI was a Regional Relief and Recovery Fund provided by the
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The mission of the HubNS is simple: create and provide a thriving, entrepreneurial ecosystem that business owners like you can call home.”
Tim Mossholder/unsplash
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. Through UMSLI, we were able to have an extraordinary impact on a variety of Main Street businesses, disbursing over $2.6 million to finance their day-to-day operating costs through each phase of the pandemic. In the Nova Scotia ecosystem, CEED is known to support early-stage entrepreneurs. However, that support is broader than most people think. While CEED continues to support the development of small and mid-size enterprises through the Self-Employment, Incubator, and Accelerator programs, we are also supporting several early-stage,
innovation-driven companies. CEED’s Innovator program focuses on a product idea that could be the basis for a business. The program engages innovators to think entrepreneurially about product-market fit, customer discovery, competitive difference makers, and build this thinking into a compelling value proposition. This method has delivered results by helping Nova Scotian entrepreneurs to secure investment, win pitch competitions, and establish a commercial hypothesis for their product. CEED’s Launchpad program goes even further. This program draws from Lean Startup methodologies to assist entrepreneurs in developing and validating business models for launch. Entrepreneurs work toward the development of their business model through active customer discovery, business model testing, and MVP development. It is a highly experiential program that relies on coaching and peer-to-peer engagement to drive business model development forward. CEED has partnered with Strategyzer, the developers of the Business Model Canvas, to use their online tools as part of this program. Most recently, CEED collaborated with Ignite Labs, the Rural Innovation Hub Network, to develop Ignite’s Amplify Acceleration program. CEED’s Launchpad was the core of the program, with CEED also contributing coaching and additional program elements — like our four-session Innovator Mindset program. Regardless of the program, we focus on providing tools to the entrepreneur, but it is up to the entrepreneur to find the solutions with their customers. Businesses are in the business of solving problems for customers. Successful businesses solve the problems that really matter to customers and, by extension, provide more value. In a startup of any kind, the initial business idea is a series of guesses or unvalidated assumptions. Our programming is designed to challenge those assumptions and either validate the entrepreneur’s hypothesis or gain enough knowledge from their customer to pivot to a better value proposition. BUSINESS VOICE
THE HUBNS The HubNS, powered by Startup Space, is a manifestation of trying to create a vibrant and entrepreneurial Nova Scotia. Developed with entrepreneurs in mind, The HubNS provides next generation community-building tools to help entrepreneurs facilitate meaningful connections, navigate local resources, measure impact, and grow communities across the province. The HubNS is a free virtual community for any member of the entrepreneurial ecosystem looking to enrich the spirit of business across Nova Scotia. On The HubNS, you can interact with the ecosystem — it’s designed to expand access to resources, events, knowledge, and mentorship. Whether it’s connecting you to the people who can help you, leveraging community events, or accessing resources, The HubNS provides the information to take you where you need to go. If someone has a spark and they want to be an entrepreneur, we wanted to ensure that they could go somewhere and get information at any time. They can ask questions, find resources and events, and start to chart a path for themselves. The mission of the HubNS is simple: create and provide a thriving, entrepreneurial ecosystem that business owners like you can call home. One of our favourite resources is the Resource Compass. There are a lot of supports from organizations out there, and we wanted to bring them into one spot. Any of the organizations can claim their resource to manage their message and presence. Our hope is that they will do more: participate in discussions and help entrepreneurs achieve their potential. The HubNS is a platform for entrepreneurs across Nova Scotia — and the organizations that support them — to truly collaborate, break down barriers, bridge the rural-urban divide, and build a robust Nova Scotian economy. Curious? We encourage you to become a member and connect with our growing community! The QR code below will take you to our landing page at hubns.ca to learn more. Join us and become part of our HubNS family! 35
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CEED ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT Can you speak about your experience as a CEED student? The CEED program really forced us to get real and honest about what we had, what we were trying to do, what we were missing, and what it was going to take to get where we wanted to go. They didn’t give us the answers — they asked all the right questions to help us find the answers ourselves.
Daniel Baldwin, MARS VR LAB
What inspired you to start Mars VR Lab? Shawn Greene and I founded Halifax VR — a place for families to enjoy a variety of virtual reality experiences. In May 2018, we received an email from Dr. Jordan Sheriko and Scott Thieu. They had been researching VR solutions to use in their pediatric rehabilitation practice at the IWK, but they couldn’t find an adequate solution that was focused on kids. Our initial meeting led to several discussions and ultimately resulted in a product road map of solutions to be built. We chose to focus our efforts on solving the complexities involved in preparing children to navigate the world in power wheelchairs. We formed MARS VR Lab shortly thereafter with a new vision. What have you enjoyed most about starting Mars VR Lab? I love technology and finding new ways to use it and solve problems. We are thrilled with the progress we’ve made to date. We have raised $1,000,000. Patents have been submitted, and our software is on pace to be ready for Research Trials by the IWK. We work with some of the most genuine and talented people I have ever met. We have an incredible group of people supporting us, from our Board to our shareholders. It feels special to be part of such a passionate project.
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What does the future hold for Mars VR Lab? We are going to do a $3 million seed round in 2022 to help with commercialization in Canada. We need to find more talented people in order to keep building and expanding our work. We also need more partners, who will help bring more initiatives and new solutions to the children’s hospitals throughout North America.
We convert paper waste into useful products, like paper bags, and supply them to local businesses. We recently started making crinkle paper, and we want to sell our products in chains by introducing organic bin liners for compost containers. If you have paper waste, give it to us and we will repurpose it. Not only are you turning waste into useful products, you can promote that your business is ecofriendly and supports green initiatives. We collect flyers from co-op stores and Coffee News, which print ads for small businesses. We turn the paper into bags, and the businesses are advertised again! It’s a win-win. What have you enjoyed most about being a business owner? I keep always these things in mind: being eco-friendly, supporting local, and making positive change. That vision and purpose keep me going every day. Now, I am seeing positive change happening. We have sold over 28,000 bags and saved over 2700 pounds of paper. What was your experience like working with CEED? CEED is a great organization — they are able to help to startups like me. I know that if I need a business loan, I can go to CEED. I learned a lot through their coaching sessions with their mentors. It can be overwhelming for small businesses, but you need to take action. You need to have a proper mentor, and CEED really has great pool of knowledgeable mentors. They have taught me how important it is to work with the right people. We are proud to be a member of the Halifax Chamber of Commerce, and we are proud to be CEED alumni.
Purush Cannane, GREENII INC.
What inspired you to start your business? I was inspired to start Greenii Inc. to create positive change. I want to revolutionize the packaging industry and save trees by solving the plastic bag problem.
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021
What is on the horizon for Greenii Inc.? We are planning to work with colleges, universities, schools, corporate offices, retail stores, and the Dartmouth Adult Services Centre to repurpose clean, recyclable paper into fresh paper bags. If you have paper to donate, we can arrange a pickup for donation!
WORKING FOR YOU
Ashley Hickey, ENZEBRA
What inspired you to start your business? I owned a development agency, and I was trying to find one application that could manage bookkeeping, inventory, project management, client interfacing, staff scheduling, office communications, internet policies, and HR. That turned into seven different applications that didn’t speak to each other. I was frustrated one day when I couldn’t remember one of the million passwords for these different platforms, so I originally developed Enzebra for myself! Enzebra is a business operating system that virtually replaces all the software you use to run your business. It allows businesses to do more and save time with less resources. Training is built into the platform, where employees can go in and train at their own pace. The big outcome is that people can move products from initial quote and into the hands of their customers faster. What have you enjoyed most about starting Enzebra? The most rewarding part has been working with businesses who were frustrated with outdated technology and the issues it caused. These businesses couldn’t realize the benefits of technology because they were just bouncing between screens. It is so rewarding to modernize these businesses. To make them, first of all, not just happier, but also more accepting of technology. To see employees interface with the technology and get excited about it.
photos contributed
What was your experience like working with CEED? I will never give enough gratitude towards CEED and the mentors, particularly Craig, Werner, and Maria. They taught me about the clarity of my message — explaining the value of what we do in a way that people could understand — and about important next steps. They taught me how to grow, not just as a person, but as a business owner. They supported me every step of the way.
What news would you like to share with our business community? I participated in the Spark Nova Scotia Competition, and I am very grateful to say that I won. In the days following, I was contacted by the Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP). Now we’re working on a number of funding initiatives to help me through the next stage of my business. It’s been amazing to see that if there was ever a good time to start up a business in Nova Scotia, it’s right now. There are so many resources to help you get off the ground.
ceed.ca | info@ceed.ca | (902) 421-2333
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