Business Voice Magazine - March 2019

H A L I FA X C H A M B E R O F CO M M E RC E | M A RC H 2 01 9 | VO LU M E 2 8 I S S U E 3

AN

IMBALANCE OF POWER

Optimizing resources among Chamber pre-budget recommendations PAGE 14

LIVING OPPORTUNITIES

THE CRAFT OF STORYTELLING

SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE

Bio sector booming across province Pg 18

Helping brands stand out in a digital world Pg 22

Investing that’s a win-win for the community Pg 26

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What areas do the government need to be in and what areas can it step away from?”

Volume 28 • Issue 03 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.

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— Patrick Sullivan, President & CEO, 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.

COVER STORY:

AN IMBALANCE OF POWER

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

Board of Directors

Cynthia Dorrington, Vale & Associates, Chair Margaret Chapman, Corporate Research Associates, Vice Chair Mark Fraser, T4G, Past Chair

Directors

Lori Barton, Beaumont Advisors Limited Robert Dean, MNP LLP Mark Sidebottom, Nova Scotia Power Inc. Gavin MacDonald, Cox & Palmer Paul Bent, Consultant Saeed El-Darahali, Simply Cast Faten Alshazly, WeUsThem Stefanie MacDonald, Halifax Paper Hearts Captain David Mazur, Maritime Forces Atlantic Richard Butts, Clayton Developments Limited Michele Peveril, Nova Scotia Department of Business Brad Proctor, McInnes Cooper

Chamber Staff

Patrick Sullivan, President and CEO Nancy M. Conrad, Senior Vice President, Policy Colin J. Bustard, Director of Finance and Administration Becky Davison, Director of Marketing

Business Voice is published by The Chronicle Herald Custom Publishing Department Publisher: Sarah Dennis Manager, Custom Publishing: Lindsey Bunin Editor: Lindsey Bunin • lbunin@herald.ca Layout & Design: Peter Ross Contributing Writers: Jon Tattrie, Joey Fitzpatrick, Carol Dobson, Peter Skakum, William Drake Hill, Steve MacLellan, Heather Laura Clarke Customer Relations Specialist: Jennifer MacLean Sales Executives: Wanda H. Priddle, Karen Publicover 902-426-2811 ext. 1163 • sales@herald.ca Cover photo: Ilker Celik/123RF Copyright 2019 by The Chronicle Herald.

All rights reserved. Reproduction of any article, photograph or artwork without expressed written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.

2717 Joseph Howe Drive Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 2T2 Tel: 902-426-2811 TheChronicleHerald.ca

Disclaimer

Business Voice magazine makes no warranties of any kind, written or implied, regarding the contents of this magazine and expressly disclaims any warranty regarding the accuracy or reliability of information contained herein.

The views contained in this magazine are those of the writers and advertisers; they do not necessarily reflect the views of Business Voice magazine and its publisher The Chronicle Herald.

Publications Mail Agreement No. 40032112 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to Halifax Chamber of Commerce.

14 TABLE OF CONTENTS:

18

04 Events 05 President’s message 06 New & noted 10 Members in the news 14 An imbalance of power

hal gatewood/unsplash

22 Profile:

Journeyman Films

24 Trends

Optimizing resources among

Chamber pre-budget recommendations

27 Working for you

18 Booming bio-opportunities

28 Travel and tourism

Life sciences sector playing growing role in Nova Scotia economy

BUSINESS VOICE

SPECIAL FEATURES: 30 Construction and development 3

EVENTS

CHAMBER EVENTS NS CO-OP SUMMIT

DATE: Friday, March 8 TIME: 8:30 am – 3:30 pm LOCATION: Halifax Marriott Harborfront Hotel, 1919 Upper Water St., Halifax

LUNCHEON:

A Cannabis Conversation 2.0

SPONSORED BY: BoyneClarke & CPHRNS DATE: Tuesday, March 12 TIME: 11 am – 2 pm LOCATION: Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel, 1919 Upper Water St., Halifax

CHAMBER 101

DATE: Wednesday, March 20 TIME: 12 – 1:30 pm LOCATION: Halifax Chamber of Commerce, 32 Akerley Blvd., Dartmouth

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

For a full and up-to-date list of our Chamber events, please visit www.halifaxchamber.com/events

LUNCHEON: Halifax’s future

HOSTED BY: DoubleTree

by Hilton Halifax Dartmouth DATE: Wednesday, March 27 TIME: 4:30 – 6:30 pm LOCATION: 101 Wyse Rd., Dartmouth

as an innovation economy

LUNCHEON: Glenn Cooke, CEO, Cooke Aquaculture

LUNCHEON: Janet Knox, CEO, NS Health Authority

SPONSORED BY: Deloitte DATE: Thursday, March 28 TIME: 11:30 am – 1:30 pm LOCATION: Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel, 1919 Upper Water St., Halifax

POWER LUNCH:

Transforming a culture of “nice” into one of results

HOSTED BY: Big Leap Leadership DATE: Friday, March 29 TIME: 12 – 1:30 pm LOCATION: Halifax Chamber of Commerce, 32 Akerley Blvd., Dartmouth

SPONSORED BY: RBC DATE: Thursday, April 4 TIME: 11:30 am – 1:30 pm LOCATION: Westin Hotel, Halifax

SPONSORED BY: Medavie Blue Cross DATE: Friday, April 12 TIME: 11:30 am – 1:30 pm LOCATION: Lord Nelson Hotel, Halifax

CHAMBER 101

DATE: Wednesday, April 17 TIME: 12 – 1:30 pm LOCATION: Halifax Chamber of Commerce, 32 Akerley Blvd., Dartmouth

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

HOSTED BY: Workspace Bayers Lake DATE: Thursday, April 25 TIME: 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm LOCATION: 145 Hobsons Lake Dr., Suite 405, Halifax

SAVE THE DATE: PINTS + POINTERS

MARCH 20, APRIL 17, MAY 30

AGM

APRIL 18

SPRING DINNER MAY 2

MINISTER CASEY MAY 21

SPONSORED BY: CPA

WONDER WOMEN CONFERENCE JUNE 7

THANK YOU TO OUR FEBRUARY SPONSORS:

902-423-6440

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MARCH 2019

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Balanced budgets and red tape reduction It’s the most wonderful time of the year

PATRICK SULLIVAN PRESIDENT & CEO

F

or those of us that get excited about government policy, it is the most wonderful time of the year. It’s budget month in Nova Scotia. For the Halifax Chamber, it means we have submitted our provincial pre-budget list, outlining our asks and considerations for the fiscal budget.

We hope the Finance Minister is hard at work checking our list twice and keeping it in mind as she prepares to present the fiscal budget. We are waiting patiently to see if this will be Nova Scotia’s fourth consecutive balanced budget and whether our asks have been considered.

We framed our pre-budget submission on several issues of focus in our strategic plan which was outlined in February’s Business Voice. We listened to our members’ concerns and voiced those concerns to all levels of government. Our main priorities include: • Optimizing the size of government • Creating a frictionless business environment • Reducing the tax burden • Promoting immigration • Supporting export development • Increasing student retention • Increasing entrepreneurship training • Promoting the growth of Halifax

as a major city

@prezhfxchamber We recognize these aren’t easy asks, but we know these pillars will propel us forward as a city and as a province. If we want to compete on a global scale, we need to improve our place in Canada and the world. And quickly.

One of the areas we are encouraged by is the recent progress report on the province’s work on red tape reduction (you can find it in our policy library at halifaxchamber.com). The Chamber is actively involved in providing support and leadership on this work.

To give credit when it’s due, the Government of Nova Scotia committed to reducing the regulatory burden to Nova Scotia business by $25 million (net) by the end of 2018. As of December 31, 2018, approved initiatives where implementation is complete or underway are estimated to reduce the burden to business by more than $34 million — 38 per cent over the target. This achievement is a shining example of government and industry working together to encourage businesses to stay here and continue driving our economy.

Last month, we hosted the Annual State of the Province, presented by NATIONAL Public Relations, with Premier McNeil. We had the opportunity to dive deeper into our members’ concerns with an extended Q&A. At the soldout event, Premier McNeil addressed many of the issues that we have raised in our communication with the province — fiscal sustainability, debt reduction, expenditure reduction to set the stage for corporate tax reduction and a long-term economic vision for the province.

The Premier spoke frankly about his vision for the growth of our province and the important role attraction and retention of our skilled workforce plays in the vision. The graduate to opportunity program, for example, has matched 400 students with jobs in Nova Scotia to date!

BUSINESS VOICE

Take a look at our cover story on page 14 and think about what you’d like to see in the next provincial budget.

Let us know what issues are facing your business. We’re in your corner and want to provide support.

To hear more on the provincial budget, you can join us at our luncheon with The Honourable Karen Casey, Minister of Finance and Treasury Board, happening on May 21, 2019.

Contact Nancy@halifaxchamber.com, Senior VP, Policy, Halifax Chamber or Kathleen@halifaxchamber.com, Policy Analyst, Halifax Chamber to voice your concerns.

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NEWSMAKERS

NEW & NOTED We welcome our new Chamber members ATLANTIC SPLASH ADVENTURE

BEBBINGTON INDUSTRIES INC.

BLACKOTTER INC.

Under new ownership, Atlantic Playland has become Atlantic Splash Adventure.

The iconic amusement park, located in Lucasville, that has been cherished for decades is being revitalized and refurbished. To start, six new water slides have been added, which will finally give Nova Scotia its very own water park.

Tara Burgess

Bebbington Industries is a manufacturer of cleaning and industrial products. Our DOWN EAST home cleaning products are available through leading supermarkets. Our professional cleaning products, used in the food service, industrial and janitorial industries, are available through our distributor network or direct from our Burnside factory outlet.

Lisa Fraser

Blackotter is a business acceleration agency that offers full omni-channel marketing services to brands. Our sole mission is to help e-commerce businesses grow profitably. We use current digital technologies, innovative marketing tactics and influential people to grow and scale businesses, from startups to enterprises.

Johannes Weirather

1200 Lucasville Road Lucasville, NS 902-865-1025 tara@splashadventure.ca www.splashadventure.ca ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT – Entertainment

44 Wright Avenue Dartmouth, NS 902-468-8180 lisafraser@bebbingtonindustries.com www.bebbingtonindustries.com INDUSTRIAL & MANUFACTURING – Cleaning/Janitorial

32 Akerley Boulevard, Suite 101 Dartmouth, NS 902-229-5238 johannes@blackotter.com www.blackotter.com COMPUTERS, IT & TECHNOLOGY – E-Commerce

CHRIS WILLIAM CONSULTING INC. CwC offers more than four years of B2B sales and consulting experience in the health and wellness sector. CwC is based in Halifax and has accounts across Atlantic Canada. Chris O’Brien started CwC after serving in the Canadian Forces and majoring in accounting at Saint Mary’s University.

Chris O’Brien Halifax, NS 902-293-1188 cobrien@chriswilliamconsult.ca BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES – Sales

COAST PUBLISHING LTD. Christine Oreskovich

2309 Maynard Street Halifax, NS 902- 422-6278 christine@thecoast.ca www.thecoast.ca BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES – Publishing

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MARCH 2019

NEWSMAKERS COLLINS HOMES & RENOVATIONS

HALIFAX HEAT PUMPS & ELECTRICAL

A third generation home builder, Collins Homes looks back to its roots but ahead to the future. Focusing on energy efficient homes that feature today’s desired design elements, we are the “Better Builder” — we listen better, we plan better, we build better.

Evan Collins

Eric Murphy

Hammonds Plains, NS 902-209-3232 evan@collinshomes.ca www.CollinsHomes.ca REAL ESTATE/CONSTRUCTION – Builders Residential

DYNAGEN TECHNOLOGIES Jeff Healy

3 Spectacle Lake Drive, Unit B-105 Dartmouth, NS 902-406-0133 jhealy@dynagen.ca www.dynagen.ca INDUSTRIAL & MANUFACTURING – Manufacture/Process

EASTERN SHORE FAMILY RESOURCE ASSOCIATION

Hammonds Plains, NS 902-718-6697 savewithhhp@gmail.com INDUSTRIAL & MANUFACTURING – Electrical/Mechanical

HALIFAX WANDERERS FOOTBALL CLUB HFX Wanderers FC is a professional soccer club based in the heart of Halifax and a member of the Canadian Premier League. Our mission is to deliver a winning team, a premium sports entertainment product for our fans and high value for our partners.

David Finlayson 1559 Brunswick Street, Suite 100 Halifax, NS 902-444-3773 david.finlayson@ hfxwanderersfootball.club www.hfxwanderersfc.canpl.ca SPORTS & RECREATION – Recreation/Sports/Fitness

MAXIMUM LUBE & TIRE INC.

Nancy Hollis

Adam MacDonald

FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON HALIFAX

MIND HACK ROOM ESCAPE

5228 Highway 7, Suite 203 Porters Lake, NS 902-827-1461 nhollis.esfra@bellaliant.com www.esfamily.org NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS – Community Centres

Kirk Mosher

1496 Hollis Street Halifax, NS 902-474-3904 kirk.mosher@fourpointshalifax.com www.fourpointshalifax.com TRAVEL & TOURISM – Accommodations (General)

41 Akerley Boulevard Dartmouth, NS 902-468-1515 maximumlubentire@gmail.com www.maximumlubeandtire.com TRANSPORTATION – Automotive Repair/Parts

Mind Hack Room Escape is a live-action adventure game where teams of four to 10 players participate in an interactive story, solving a series of puzzles to escape the room within 60 minutes.

Your team will work together to decipher clues, solve riddles and unravel puzzles to ultimately escape the room! Mind Hack Room Escape has two exciting locations with unique experiences, located in Hammonds Plains and Dartmouth.

BUSINESS VOICE

Matt Hall

110 Woodlawn Road, 100L Dartmouth, NS 902-809-4225 info@mindhackescape.com www.mindhackescape.com ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT – Entertainment

MUNN INSURANCE Munn Insurance is a leading provider of home, auto, group and business insurance and has been serving customers since 1904. With a new office in Halifax, Munn has grown into one of the largest independent brokers in Atlantic Canada — representing a multitude of insurers thereby guaranteeing the lowest rates and exceptional coverage. For more information, visit www.munninsurance.com.

Brian King 106-111 Ilsley Avenue Dartmouth, NS 855-726-8627 brian.king@munninsurance.com www.munninsurance.com FINANCE & INSURANCE – Insurance Services (General)

OZ SHOES LTD. At Oz, we believe if you follow the yellow-brick road you will be the only girl at the party with those killer mules, that you will invest in well-made chic footwear and you will vibe with the carefully curated styles we have selected.

Our hope is that when welcoming an Oz shoe or accessory into our space, it evokes the fashionista within you, curiosity, pride, creativity, choice and is an extension of your unique being.

Michele Giffin 1887 Granville Street Halifax, NS 902-407-2045 Michele@ozshoes.com www.ozshoes.com SHOPPING & SPECIALTY RETAIL – Retail (General)

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NEWSMAKERS PRATT & WHITNEY CANADA

THE FLAG SHOP

Stephane Turbide

Debbie Hartlen

P.O. Box 950 Enfield, NS 902-873-4241 stephane.turbide@pwc.ca www.pwc.ca TRANSPORTATION – Aviation

RGIS Cavan O’Leary

115 Main Street Dartmouth, NS 902-434-1695 novascotia@flagshop.com www.flagshop.com BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES – Sales

THE HUSTLE WORKOUT

19 Alma Crescent, Suite 201 Halifax, NS 902-468-7866 coleary@rgis.com www.rgis.com BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES – Inventory Services

The Hustle Fitness’ Mission is to change lives through implementing change and awareness to health and fitness. We align personal goals with an effective plan for each individual while having fun. We recognize hard work pays off and celebrate results. We believe positive changes are possible! You can do it!

Leanne McDow Dartmouth, NS 902-219-4759 Thehustleworkout@gmail.com www.thehustleworkout.ca HEALTH CARE – Health Club

UFIND.CA ADVERTISING AGENCY Ufind social-powered Wi-Fi is here to boost your business! We can help you increase your profit and sales by empowering your existing Wi-Fi. What can we do for you? We will setup a Social Powered Wi-Fi hotspot that will allow you to offer free and secured Wi-Fi to your customers. This new and innovative solution allows customers to connect using Facebook, Twitter, Google or LinkedIn in exchange of using your Wi-Fi internet connection. With our captured data from Ufind hotspot we can help you build loyal customers through innovative marketing strategies and email automation.

Joey Moreno Halifax, NS 902-440-8304 ufind.ca@gmail.com www.ufind.ca ADVERTISING, PR & MEDIA – Social Media

VALENT LEGAL Mike Dull

Since 1924, our customers have been our top priority.

Our team is ready to help you find the heating solution you need for your business.

700-1741 Brunswick Street Halifax, NS 902-443-4488 mike@valentlegal.ca www.valentlegal.ca BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES – Law

STUDENT MEMBER Kevin Vigneau, Bachelor of Commerce – Finance, DAL

When you partner with Irving Energy, you can count on: Safety in everything we do Reliable fuel delivery and supply Support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week Local and in your community To learn more, give me a call or send me an email today. I look forward to working with you.

Dan Wolfe, Commercial Sales 902.478.4239 • dan.wolfe@irvingoil.com

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MARCH 2019

Halifax, NS 905-716-4836 kevin.vigneau@dal.ca

RETIRED MEMBER Lynn MacFarlane

Dartmouth, NS 902-221-4252 lynnmacfarlane@hotmail.com

Are you a new member?

To submit your 50-word description for New & Noted, please contact Mandi Goudey, Administrative Assistant at mandi@ halifaxchamber.com or 902-468-7111 within the first six months of membership.

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BUSINESS VOICE

Contact Gregor Ash gregor@boomersplus.com 800.830.1249 ext 706 9

NEWSMAKERS

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS How our members are growing Halifax

DGH FOUNDATION WELCOMES STEPHEN HARDING The Dartmouth General Hospital Foundation Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Stephen Harding has joined the Foundation as the new President and CEO as of Jan. 2. Steve brings more than 25 years of experience to the Foundation with an extensive background in philanthropy, strategic planning, marketing and business development. Steve has an MBA from Dalhousie University and holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Mount Allison University. Steve looks forward to working with our Foundation donors to help them make a difference for our patients and the community.

TOWER INTERIORS WINS THREE AWARDS Tower Interiors has been awarded the Consumer Choice Award in the category of Interior Design for the ninth year.

“We are so pleased to be voted for by the consumers of Halifax as their Interior Design firm of choice,” says Pam Tower, Registered Interior Designer. At the

Koltech Peak Awards for the Canadian Home Builders Nova Scotia, Tower Interiors won the Most Outstanding Kitchen Renovation with Monk Renovations and Most Outstanding Special Project with Leasehold Improvements.

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MARCH 2019

NEWSMAKERS

COLLINS BARROW REBRANDS AS BAKER TILLY Collins Barrow Nova Scotia is proud to take on the name and visual identity of its global network, becoming Baker Tilly Nova Scotia. This rebrand reflects the firm’s dedication to unified global representation, core values and brand positioning, while keeping its autonomous ownership structure intact. In other words, Baker Tilly Nova Scotia will continue to function as an independently owned and operated firm and part of the Baker Tilly Canada network. New name, still fiercely independent!

GORDON LAING TO JOIN CMHC BOARD

ALWAYS HOME HOMECARE LEADER IN DEMENTIA 17,000 Nova Scotians currently live with dementia and this number is only expected to grow. Always Home Homecare is the leader in helping people live well with dementia at home.

We’ve invested in Positive Approach to Care (PAC), the best-in-class dementia training available and have two in-house

Certified PAC Trainers. All caregivers are trained in PAC skills which enable caregivers to connect and communicate with clients in meaningful ways. The result? Better care and improved quality of life for persons living with dementia and their families. “Until there’s a cure, there’s care.”

On Dec. 21, The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), announced that Mr. Gordon J. Laing, President and CEO of Southwest Properties, will join CMHC’s Board of Directors, effective Dec. 12, for a fouryear term.

MSVU CO-OP PROGRAM CELEBRATING 40 YEARS Mount Saint Vincent University is marking an impressive milestone in 2019: the 40th anniversary of its co-operative education program. The longest-standing nationally accredited co-op program in the Maritimes, the Mount began offering co-op in 1979 for Business Administration students. Four decades later, more than 8,000 Business Administration, Public Relations and Tourism and Hospitality Management students have completed paid work terms in industries related to their fields of study. Today, every program at the Mount has a co-op, internship or practicum opportunity attached.

DRESS FOR SUCCESS MOVING TWO DOORS DOWN Dress for Success Halifax is thrilled to announce the re-location of The Social Boutique at 936 Bedford Highway, Bedford. “Larry Swinemar, owner of The Village Centre, has surprised us again by providing an upgraded space that is three times larger and only two BUSINESS VOICE

doors from the previous location,” says Board President Julie Wisen. “This will enable us to continue to serve the public after two-and-a-half years in business of raising funds to support the women we serve through our programs and we are incredibly grateful.”

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NEWSMAKERS

CYSTIC FIBROSIS WELCOMES CO-OP STUDENT

LIVING A LIFESTYLE YOU DESERVE Forest Lakes is proud to host a variety of exciting events throughout this upcoming year. From an artisan market to Oktoberfest, outdoor movie nights, yoga sessions and more, these events are fun

for all ages. See our resort-styled community come to life by experiencing these spectacular lifestyle activities. Stay up to date with events at Forest Lakes by visiting www.forestlakescountryclub.ca/events.

Cystic Fibrosis Canada Atlantic Region is thrilled to welcome Allison Webb, a third year Public Relations student from Mount Saint Vincent University’s co-operative education program, for the winter term. Allison joins Cystic Fibrosis Canada as the Community Engagement and Events Assistant. Allison’s enthusiasm to learn and grow her skills will help us reach our goal of a world without cystic fibrosis.

She will work closely with our volunteers and staff team on events across the region with a focus on the Walk to Make Cystic Fibrosis History. To learn more about Cystic Fibrosis Canada, visit www.cysticfibrosis.ca.

NEW VICE PRESIDENT AND PARTNER AT GERALD WALSH ASSOCIATES Gerald Walsh Associates Inc. welcomes Jillian Gorbold, MA, as Vice President and Partner to the executive search and human resources consulting firm. In her role, Jillian co-manages the firm’s executive search practice and develops and implements human resource consulting services to advance the firm’s mission to grow and develop leaders in their communities. Visit www.geraldwalsh.com or contact Jillian directly at 902-424-1109 or gorbold@geraldwalsh.com.

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MARCH 2019

NEWSMAKERS BIG LEAP LEADERSHIP LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE Big Leap Leadership helps build stronger leadership to help organizations communicate better, collaborate more effectively and get meaningful, measurable results. We develop effective, innovative leaders from the inside out.

Our new launch showcases some of our most popular workshops, products and services. Check us out at www.bigleapleadership.com.

RECOGNIZE YOUR POTENTIAL IS EXPANDING

CHARITY COMPLETES NATIONAL TOUR Fourteen weeks, 10 provinces, 100 schools, 125,000 students directly impacted. Wow, what a tour! This past fall, the inspiring Elsie Morden hit the road with No Time for That AntiBullying Society’s “No Time for That” tour. She shared her story and songs that

she’s written, empowering youth and educating them about bullying prevention and mental health awareness. Thank you to everyone in Halifax that helped make this possible - you are making a difference and your support is greatly appreciated!

Recognize Your Potential welcomes Julie Crowell! Julie is thrilled with the opportunity to build on her administrative background to a career in design. Her ability and enthusiasm to collaborate on projects is a perfect fit for RYP. The team is having lots of fun with new ideas, such as weekly LinkedIn live videos. She is a vital asset to RYP with her background in administration. We are launching an exciting monthly training calendar for you to choose from, starting in March.

We look forward to serving your needs on improving engagement, leadership, productivity and innovation for a positive workplace culture.

CANADIAN PARLIAMENTARY DELEGATION VISITED NOVA SCOTIA PROGRAM IN SUZHOU, CHINA

INTERTALK WINS CONTRACT WITH METRA RAIL InterTalk has been awarded a contract with Metra Rail to modernize their dispatch command and control system.

When completed, the system will include up to 60 dispatcher positions and comprehensive audio/data archival recording. InterTalk was chosen for its technical merit and its ability to

easily accommodate Metra’s upcoming communications expansion, resulting in significant savings for Metra over the long-term. Metra, a commuter rail service in the Chicago metro area, is the fourth-largest commuter rail system (by ridership) in the United States, providing more than 80 million rides per year.

BUSINESS VOICE

On Jan. 8, a Canadian Parliamentary Delegation spent an afternoon with the staff of the Sino-Canada Program located in Suzhou, China, accompanied

by Chinese national and local officials to exchange ideas relating to education and explore areas for future cooperation.

The program is an associate operation of Halifax Chamber member SinoNova Group. The Canadian Parliamentary Delegation included Hon. Senator Joseph Day; Geng Tan, MP Don Valley North; Majid Jowhari, MP Richmond Hill; Chandra Arya, MP Nepean; and Michael Cooper, MP St. Albert – Edmonton.

The Sino-Canada program is one of 17 overseas schools overseen by Nova Scotia Department of Education & Early Childhood Development. Premier Stephen McNeil has been a great supporter and has visited the program three times since 2016.

13

AN

IMBALAN OF POWER

14

MARCH 2019

COVER STORY

NCE

Ilker Celik/123RF

OPTIMIZING RESOURCES AMONG CHAMBER PRE-BUDGET RECOMMENDATIONS • By Jon Tattrie • The Halifax Chamber of Commerce has prepared its annual pre-budget submission to the government of Nova Scotia.

The chamber speaks for more than 1,650 companies that employ a total of more than 65,000 workers. It hosts more than 100 events each year and lobbies the government on behalf of its members.

It wrote its 2019 pre-budget submission along the lines of the chamber’s own 2019-2023 strategic plan.

Patrick Sullivan, president and CEO of the Halifax Chamber of Commerce, says the four key recommendations are: 1. Optimize government resources

to reduce the impact on Nova Scotian

businesses and entrepreneurs, and

reduce government expenditures; 2. Reduce the friction businesses face

during daily operations; 3. Continue to reduce the tax burden

for Nova Scotians; 4. Outline a strategic plan for the

growth and support of businesses

and entrepreneurs in Nova Scotia

that reflects the current and future

programs, projects, grants and

collaborations between government

and stakeholders.

Sullivan says optimizing the size of government could be one of the best ways to improve the province’s finances.

“What areas do the government need to be in and what areas can it step away from?” Sullivan asks.

For example, He looks at Access Nova Scotia, which sees the government offer services done by the private sector in other provinces. “Are those tasks government employees need to do, or can it be outsourced?”

He also thinks that as the federal government legalizes cannabis products such as edibles, it could be a chance to think about handing some of that work to the private sector, rather than keeping it solely with the Nova Scotia Liquor Commission.

The chamber also takes an active interest in the electoral boundaries commission, which has provided options to increase the number of MLAs from 51 to 56. That would be a 10 per cent growth in the Legislature at a time when the population increase for the province added only 0.07 per cent more people.

“That’s a worry for us. Do we need bigger government at a time when Nova Scotia’s population is increasing fractionally?”

Sullivan understands some big rural areas feel poorly represented, but thinks adding money to rural MLAs’ budgets and opening satellite constituency offices would work better than adding MLAs. The chamber thinks the electoral boundary review can find ways to adequately represent all Nova Scotians, including Acadian and African Nova Scotian communities, without increasing the number of MLAs. While representation often focuses on rural Nova Scotia, the chamber’s report points out that HRM holds 47 per cent of the province’s population, but only 43 per cent of the seats. Given that Halifax is growing faster than any other region, that imbalance is likely to increase. That would mean some rural MLAs would represent as little as 2,600 people, while an urban one represents 14,000 or more.

Optimizing government does not mean that the provincial government

BUSINESS VOICE

15

COVER STORY

What areas do the government need to be in and what areas can it step away from?”

— Partick Sullivan, President & CEO, Halifax Chamber of Commerce

Mike Dembeck

continue to increase spending by three to four per cent per year, about double the rate of inflation as they do. In addition, supporting that spending requires a corporate tax rate in Nova Scotia that remains higher than eight other provinces. Nova Scotia’s rate is 16 per cent; six provinces set the rate at 12 per cent. “It doesn’t make Nova Scotia a compelling place to set up your business.” The chamber wants the rate reset at 14 per cent.

Sullivan notes that the businesses that make up the chamber have a mindset that each year they need to plan to reduce operating costs. “I think the government does not have the same mindset,” he says. “Government’s natural tendency is not to reduce costs.”

Sullivan says there are lots of reasons to be upbeat about business in Nova Scotia. The population reached an all-time high in 2018 and Standard and Poor’s, the bond-rating agency, upgraded Nova Scotia’s long-term credit rating to AA-, its best rating in history. In January, the Canadian Federation of Independent

Businesses gave the premier and Mayor Mike Savage the “Golden Scissors” for cutting red tape to help businesses.

The chamber president says it’s wise to focus on financial responsibility during these good times, as with 75,000 Nova Scotians set to hit retirement age in the next decade, the workforce would well shrink at a time when health-care costs rise to treat the aging population. We still owe $15 billion in debt and the chamber says using surpluses to pay that down will benefit future generations.

Paul Bent, the chamber’s chair of fostering private sector growth task force, wants to see a continued sense of financial responsibility and balanced budgets.

“We’re balanced, but we have a substantial transfer payment from the federal government. That transfer payment adds up to approximately $2,100 for every person residing in Nova Scotia. As our population continues to age, we certainly see concern down the road,” he says.

He agrees with the premier’s idea that the government’s role is to manage

the social programs and “get out of the way” of business activity. The Golden Scissors show success on that front. Bent says Halifax is set to account for half of the province’s population in the next few years and it creates about 45 per cent of Nova Scotia’s business activity. He’s eager to see how the Cogswell Interchange demolition and rebuild go ahead, and how the port develops.

“I think there’s a real positive vibe in Halifax and it’s been growing for a while,” he says.

Byron Rafuse, the province’s deputy minister of finance, says the government has received and read the chamber’s pre-budget submission. The government’s main goals remain fiscal responsibility, generating surpluses, and bringing down the debt-to-GDP ratio to the Ivany report’s 2024 goal of 30 per cent or under.

In 1981, the ratio sat at about 17 per cent, but rose 47 per cent by 1999. It’s now about 35 per cent and falling on a pace to reach the 2024 goal.

Rafuse says the reduction in red

Pakawat Suwannaket/123RF

16

MARCH 2019

COVER STORY

I think there’s a real positive vibe in Halifax and it’s been growing for a while.”

— Paul Bent, Chair, Fostering Private Sector Growth Task Force

Contributed

tape came from the work of the Office of Regulatory Affairs. Fred Crook, the chief regulatory officer, and his staff were given the job of reducing the burden on businesses. “The government did set an objective of measuring the reduction to businesses – that objective is $25 million by this fiscal year,” Rafuse says, adding that they reached that in 2019. It means businesses are spending less money to get government services, or to get regulatory approval to run their companies.

As for privatizing some of Access Nova Scotia’s work, or edible cannabis products, Rafuse says the government has been open to the idea. He says they studied the prospect of privatizing Access Nova Scotia, but decided it would make better fiscal sense to get Access Nova Scotia to spend less.

As for cannabis, he says the government weighed the financial side against the safety side. They found public support for giving cannabis to the NSLC, which has a good reputation for safely selling alcohol. “The priority is keeping the product out of the hands of youth, ensuring that a safe product is delivered to consumers, and they’ll make the decisions on the retail model based on those overarching priorities.”

He wouldn’t comment on electoral reforms, but did note that the cost of an MLA makes up a tiny part of the $12 billion operation that is the provincial government.

Overall, Rafuse says the province’s finances are in good shape, as shown by the higher Standard and Poor’s rating.

The agency looked at publicly available records and also internal documents.

“They really liked what they saw,” he says. “They look at Nova Scotia as a good place for investors to go.” The better rating lowered the cost of borrowing.

Contributed Rafuse says that financial planning includes preparing for the 75,000 people reaching retirement age in the next decade. “It is embedded into our thinking and the long-term planning of government.”

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BUSINESS VOICE

17

LIFE SCIENCES

drew hayes/unsplash

18

MARCH 2019

LIFE SCIENCES

Booming bio-opportunities

hal gatewood/unsplash

Life sciences sector playing growing role in Nova Scotia economy By Joey Fitzpatrick

T

he human immune system is nature’s standing army. Honed by evolution to fight off any and all foreign pathogens, it is far less effective when the enemy originates from within, as with malignant cells run amok. Figuring out how to co-opt the body’s immune system to enlist in the fight against cancer is no mean scientific feat.

For the past 10 years Dartmouthbased IMV has been learning how to do just that. Through collaborations with Dalhousie researchers and others, IMV has developed a novel delivery platform called DPX, that provides a set of instructions to the body’s T-cells to locate and destroy cancerous cells. It’s an entirely new class of therapy, with the potential to revolutionize cancer treatment and there are now eight clinical trials underway across North America.

Proximity to Halifax’s universities and research expertise was critical in the development of DPX says IMV CEO, Fred Ors. “Life sciences research requires a high level of specialization in a number of fields and highly specialized equipment,” Ors says. “Very few companies will have all of that internally.”

IMV is part of a growing cluster of life science companies in the Halifax

region that encompasses everything from pharmaceuticals and vaccines to medical technologies, natural health products, bioproducts and digital health solutions.

The industry accounts for more than $300 million in exports and employs some 1,500 people in the private sector alone — not including the universities, hospitals and government researchers.

Employees in life sciences earn almost $25,000 above the provincial average.

The business model in life sciences is unlike any other. Canadian drug patents, for example, last for 20 years. But patents are filed the moment a new compound is identified under the microscope, so the clock begins ticking years before anything is ready for market.

“By the time you’ve gone through clinical trials and gotten approval from Health Canada, you’re into year 10 or 12,” explains Bobby Sutherland, Executive Director, Government Relations with Innovative Medicines Canada, which represents 45 pharmaceutical firms across the country. The cost of bringing a new drug to market can be upwards of $2 billion, so the upfront investment is enormous, with no assurance of a return.

Equity tax credits offset some of this risk for investors and in January the Nova Scotia government announced that the BUSINESS VOICE

investment eligibility in the sector was being raised from $50,000 at a tax credit rate of 35 per cent to $250,000 at 45 per cent.

“That’s a good start and exactly where we need to be going,” says BioNova Executive Director, Scott Moffitt.

BioNova advocates for the province’s health and life sciences sector and Moffitt is part of a group providing recommendations to government on ways to assist the industry. Currently the Nova Scotia tax credit is available only to investors within the province. The consensus in the industry is that it needs to be expanded to include investors from outside the province.

In terms of procuring investment, attracting talent and selling a finished product, life sciences is in every sense a global enterprise.

“For a company like ours to flourish, we need to look beyond the province and beyond Canada,” says Peter Hickey, CEO and co-founder of Adaptiiv Medical Technologies Inc., based in Halifax.

Established in 2016, Adaptiiv has developed a clinically viable software platform that allows cancer treatment centres to automatically fabricate and 3D print patient-specific accessories used in radiation therapy. The software provides 19

LIFE SCIENCES

louie reed/unsplash

far greater precision than anything that previously existed. A bolus created using Adaptiiv’s software program accommodates the patient’s anatomical irregularities and delivers precise and accurate radiation doses to the target area, while protecting healthy surrounding tissue.

“It allows for better treatment and a better patient experience,” Hickey says.

“Accessories can be printed on demand and our software integrates seamlessly into the treatment centre’s existing workflow.”

The technology is used in seven countries including Canada, U.S., Israel, Australia, Ireland, China and the U.K. “The challenge our region faces is bridging the gap between research and commercialization,” Hickey says. “We need to be able to take original ideas and scale them.”

A range of assistance is available to help startup companies with the commercialization process. Dalhousie professor, Dr. Melanie Kelly and her three business partners — Dr. Mary Lynch, Dr. Christian Lehmann and Dr. Orlando Hung — were 20

Contributed

“For a company like ours to flourish, we need to look beyond the province and beyond Canada.”

— Peter Hickey, CEO & Co-founder, Adaptiiv Medical Technologies Inc. MARCH 2019

all academics/clinicians when they launched the company that eventually became PANAG Pharma back in 2012 and they all still have their day jobs. Focussing on cannabinoids and other naturally occurring compounds, the company develops novel therapeutics for chronic pain and inflammation.

“The idea for the company really developed out of our research backgrounds,” Dr. Kelly recalls. “So many people are living with chronic pain. We were looking for compounds that provide pain relief without the addictive potential inherent in opiates.”

The company was able to tap into a range of non-academic innovation grants and programs. ACOA’s Productivity and Business Skills Initiative provided salary assistance to hire key personnel.

An interest-free BDC loan will help the fledgling company expand, while consultancy advisory service grants from CEED allowed the firm to hire consultants. NSBI provided expertise with branding and promotion and Innovacorp’s Spark program provided

LIFE SCIENCES

rawpixel/unsplash

assistance with marketing.

“We were really lucky to be able to take advantage of all of these programs,” Dr. Kelly says. “We would have been dead in the water at the first hurdle, because these types of endeavours are not supported by traditional academic research funding.”

Today the company has a number of products under patent and in clinical trials and has been able to attract a licensing partner that has brought in additional R&D funding.

BioFuture 2030 is BioNova’s growth strategy for the next decade and it has ambitious goals: doubling the number of companies, tripling the number of employees and increasing the average income and tripling the value of exports.

These are all attainable goals for the province, Moffitt believes.

“We have tremendous capital infrastructure in the health related fields and the research expertise,” he says. “This industry is well positioned to be one of the core economic drivers for Nova Scotia.”

GROWTH POTENTIAL

Contributed

We were looking for compounds that provide pain relief without the addictive potential inherent in opiates.”

— Dr. Melanie Kelly, Professor of Pharmacology and Opthalmology, Dalhousie University and CSO, Panag Pharma Inc. BUSINESS VOICE

In 2017 the federal government launched a series of economic strategy tables in six key sectors that were identified for their growth potential: advanced manufacturing, agri-food, clean technology, digital industries, health/biosciences and clean resources. The economic strategy tables are designed as a new kind of partnership between government and industry, to help make Canada a world leader in these high-growth sectors.

“I’ve met with many ambitious and capable innovators working in health sciences in Halifax,” says Halifax MP Andy Fillmore.

“The quality of our universities, the emergence of innovation clusters and our public health care system are all key strengths in this sector.”

21

PROFILE

Contributed

Using the craft of storytelling Journeyman Films helps brands stand out in a digital world By Carol Dobson

T

he word “journeyman” has roots deep in medieval history and has come to mean “a skilled worker who practices some trade or handicraft.”

It’s an apt name for Dartmouth’s Journeyman Films, which uses the magic of today’s technology to craft stories for its clients.

Mathew Welsh started the company in late 2007 after perfecting his craft in a number of ways.

“It’s never a straight-line story,” he admits. “Along the way, there are twists and turns.”

His story began in Alberta, then in Ontario and France before setting down roots here in Nova Scotia. He gained

22

his journeyman’s experience in the documentary film world, working as a producer and director for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation.

“Those years prepared me,” Welsh says. “I enjoyed the documentary work and it showed me that I wanted to use a filmmaker’s eye to make the most of a person’s story.”

When you’re making a film on your own, Welsh says you need to wear many hats simultaneously: coming up with the idea, finding the financing, producing and editing the content and pitching it to an audience so it doesn’t just languish on the shelf. He says he prefers being a team player, so he formed Journeyman Films MARCH 2019

and built a strong team to share in his dreams — and the workload.

Welsh says Journeyman tells the stories of its clients in a way that “makes them memorable” — creating an emotional bond with the audience.

“When you look at corporate videos that have been produced through the years, lots of them are pretty boring,” he says. “That’s why we use a filmmaker’s eye when we’re producing content. Using the craft of storytelling helps make the production more effective.”

It’s this creative lens that’s helped the company stand out in a world where anyone with a smartphone can produce video — for better or for worse — and

PROFILE post it on any number of platforms for everyone to see.

“Video online has exploded, with more and more platforms being added every day,” Welsh says. “In the next year, 80 per cent of the total information that is online will be in the form of video. It’s a crowded, noisy space.”

This crowding is becoming problematic, like the recent incident where video footage of actress Jennifer Lawrence was manipulated so it appeared she was saying something she hadn’t. Welsh says that’s just one small instance of “fake news” that’s cropping up everywhere.

With virtual reality, augmented reality and other forms of manipulation becoming more common, he believes we’ll see many more incidents like this.

When it comes to the content Journeyman produces, Welsh says everything starts with putting words on a page. Depending on the client, it could be a full script or simply a storyboard with a few words to describe the images that will be shot.

He compares the process to a sandwich: the script or storyboard is one slice of bread, the post-production magic is the other slice of bread and the actual video is the filling in between. Lately, Welsh says the company has been putting a lot of emphasis into that first slice.

“We may be producing a piece that’s 60 seconds without any words. But even if there aren’t any words in the film, words have gone into creating that video beforehand,” he says. “Those words are used to connect with the audience, to build empathy, to take them on a journey or give them a different point of view.”

While Journeyman Films’ website lists a large number of local companies as clients, Welsh says its two biggest clients are actually in Ontario and British Columbia.

“We see ourselves continuing to grow in the next 5-8 years,” he says. “I see a studio presence in Toronto or out west, either in Alberta or British Columbia. Those locations are closer to the markets and talent and access to talent is essential.”

Journeyman Films currently has 12 employees working out of its Dartmouth office. Welsh says he envisions the team growing to 50 over the next few years, but they’ll be treading carefully.

“Growth is never a straight line,” Welsh says. “Sometimes you have to step back, evaluate what is happening and then move on. You always have to keep learning.”

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23

TRENDS

Selling: the oldest profession on Earth What it takes to be a salesperson in today’s world

Salespeople are the quintessential self-made men and women. Salespeople create, deliver and leverage opportunity, globally. They are the primary business developers in every company and are depended upon to deliver profitable growth and sustainability.”

PETER SKAKUM PRESIDENT, TANGENT STRATEGIES INC. Of all the professions: law, medicine, accounting, military, politics, engineering, teaching, entertainment or professional sports … there is arguably none more rewarding financially, emotionally, intellectually, mentally and yes, even physically than the profession of selling.

Selling is the oldest profession on earth and for good reason. It satisfies.

Salespeople are the quintessential self-made men and women. Salespeople create, deliver and leverage opportunity, globally. They are the primary business developers in every company and are depended upon to deliver profitable growth and sustainability.

The most successful salespeople are salaried professionals, respected, admired and welcomed into virtually every home and office. The most successful salespeople sell without pressure or manipulation.

Logic is their resource. They do not troll for pain or demand immediate buy-decisions. They guide and advise. They recognize and anticipate need and satisfy it.

They are a patient, tolerant and congenial amalgam of psychology, anthropology and business savvy. And, they like people.

Of course selling has its bad apples.

Every profession does. However even the bad apples earn their keep by teaching us all how not to sell. If you’ve met a bad apple or employed one you know what I mean.

24

Principled women and men who have learned to sell well are highly sought after. They can and do write their own ticket. The secret to hiring and keeping talented and admired salespeople is no secret at all.

Employers fortunate enough to recruit top tier salespeople do so by asking themselves two simple, but insightful, questions: • As a buyer, what would cause me to

respect, admire and do business with

a salesperson?

• As a salesperson, what would cause

me to accept an offer of employment

and remain loyal to that offer for

years to come?

Men and women called to a profession generally dedicate their lives to that profession and either establish their own companies or remain committed to the companies who first hired them.

Transience is limited and for good reason.

EQUITY. Salespeople and astute employers recognize the accrued equity-value of mature customer relationships - relationships that cannot become mature if salespeople are resigning or being let go from a company every other year. Equity is a currency professionals understand and trade in. It is extremely difficult for competitors to attract customers away from a tenured, equity-rich salesperson, someone who has been loyal to his

MARCH 2019

employer and customers for years.

As buyers we bond with salespeople with whom we have established equity, with whom we have come to know well and trust. As salespeople we cultivate bodies of business, sources of recurring revenue from which we, our employers and even our customers benefit. Equity between seller and buyer is a foundation upon which wealth accumulates and is sustained. Companies who are continually firing and hiring salespeople cannot sustain equity and do so at their peril.

Employers who complain they cannot find good salespeople to hire and retain are usually the architects of these problems. And as the word on the street gets out, self-respecting salespeople give such companies and employers a wide berth.

On the other hand, astute buyers, whether they purchase on behalf of corporations, governments, their families or themselves, understand that the more open they are to the options and opportunities introduced by salespeople, the more sound their buying decisions will be. Buyers value salespeople who advise, guide and deliver qualified opportunity to grow and succeed.

Selling done well is one of the most pleasing and rewarding social and commercial enterprises. It is a partnership between buyer and seller that builds strong economies, comfortable lifestyles and stable societies.

TRENDS

Gaining valuable and green experience Dalhousie Capstone group helps local start-up cidery develop sustainable business plan

Operating your business while keeping the environment in mind is a practice that is becoming increasingly common and there is no question as to why. Climate change is impacting more people around the world everyday, so consumers are now more aware of and concerned about pressing global climate issues.”

WILLIAM DRAKE HILL BUSINESS MANAGEMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY STUDENT, DALHOUSIE UNIVERSITY Throughout the entirety of the past school year, myself and five other students of different educational backgrounds collaborated on a project for an environmental sustainability capstone course at the Dalhousie College of Sustainability.

Our group had been working with a start-up cidery in New Germany, N.S., Meadowood Cidery Co. The family operated business had reached out to the College expressing a need for aid in the form of fresh eyes. We were given the task of working with the team at Meadowood to develop logistical efficiencies, operational blueprints and creative sustainable business practices.

Most of the fall semester was spent brainstorming with minimal constraints in order to create a large pool of ideas and possibilities. When we got back together after the winter break, we began the process of sifting through that pool and honing in on specific ideas that we believed to be the most relevant, practical, etc.

Our goal was to provide our clients with a final deliverable that polished the vision they have for their business. We decided in order to achieve this, we would recommend plans that would make the starting process easier for them and their business more economically feasible

and environmentally friendly in the long term. We met with architecture firms, natural building gurus and other craft breweries from around the Maritimes to develop concepts for Meadowood in order to find out which options would help them achieve their vision.

By the end of the term our team carefully constructed a 30-page document and 10-minute presentation that outlined the concepts we believe Meadowood should pursue. The obstacle we struggled with most, when assembling our final recommendations, was the proper location for the taproom and the actual brewing process. We decided to present our findings in a format that included three different options for said locations, in order to give our clients multiple perspectives from which they could choose their favorite. Many of our final recommendations were consistent regardless of the brewing location such as: • Sourcing lumber for patio locally

or even on site • Composting toilets • Large bay windows for passive heat

and lighting • The use of natural building materials

(i.e.: Hempcrete for insulation) • Recycled asphalt for driveway and

parking needs • Rain water collection • Sourcing energy from renewable

sources (solar, wind, Bullfrog Power)

BUSINESS VOICE

Operating your business while keeping the environment in mind is a practice that is becoming increasingly common and there is no question as to why. Climate change is impacting more people around the world everyday, so consumers are now more aware of and concerned about pressing global climate issues. It’s only natural these consumers are more likely to support businesses they believe are trying to do their part by going green. Even if you don’t “buy into” climate change personally, your customers and your employees do and therefore your business should too.

Not only do eco-friendly business practices decrease your impact on our planet, they can also have a positive impact on your bottom line and increase your profit margin. Some of the simplest ways to minimize your environmental impact are reducing unnecessary inputs (paper, water, energy, etc.). If you take a good hard look at your materials and expenses, you can easily chip away wasted resources so you can decrease your costs and reduce the amount of waste your business produces!

And if not for a positive public image or cost reduction, you should go green for the most important reason of all: to keep our planet healthy. We all share this planet and reap the benefits and resources it gives us, and we shouldn’t take advantage of that.

Contact Drake at 902-292-4165 or W.drake.hill@dal.ca.

25

TRENDS

Socially responsible investing practices Is it a win-win for you and your community? By Steve MacLellan If you’re concerned about social, ethical and environmental issues, you may be pleased to learn that you can have a real, measurable impact by way of your investment portfolio.

“Socially responsible investing” (SRI), or “sustainable,” “green,” or “ethical” investing is any investment strategy which seeks to consider both financial return and social/environmental good.

It allows your investments not only to improve your own life, but also your community and the world.

One of the challenges of socially responsible investing is that it can be difficult to identify the investments that will truly benefit you along with contributing positively to the issues you care about.

To ensure your investments are aligned with the social, environmental and community issues that matter most to you, in-depth screenings of companies and their impact must be conducted, monitored and reviewed. The corporate structure, business practices, history and of course, the return on your investment are examined in detail. This offers an extra layer of risk management.

No one should have to choose between building wealth and building a better world. Companies with socially responsible corporate behaviour offer the best prospects for creating and preserving long-term value and with less risk.

Socially responsible investing lets you align your investment goals with your values, so that you can enjoy competitive financial returns while making a positive social impact. By selecting companies that improve our communities and our environment and by excluding companies that have a negative impact, you can invest in companies that contribute to a better financial future for you and a better world for everyone.

26

No one should have to choose between building wealth and building a better world. Companies with socially responsible corporate behaviour offer the best prospects for creating and preserving long-term value and with less risk.”

THREE BIG FACTORS In general, socially responsible investors encourage corporate practices that promote environmental stewardship, consumer protection, human rights and diversity. The areas of concern recognized by the SRI practitioners are sometimes summarized under the heading of ESG issues: environment, social responsibility and corporate governance.

Consider these thought-starters when planning your investments: ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE • How does the company act as a

steward for the natural environment?

• How do its operations impact the environment?

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • How does a company treat people

both inside and outside the company?

• Do they value diversity?

• Do they protect human and

consumer rights?

MARCH 2019

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE • How are executives compensated?

• Does the company operate

transparently and accountably?

Companies excluded from SRI are involved in industries that are considered to be harmful to the community or the environment: • Tobacco • Nuclear power • Military weapons • Pornography • Gaming Sustainable companies offer the best prospects for creating and preserving long-term value. Investors monitor each company and as stakeholders, encourage them to address issues that could have a negative effect on the community or the environment.

For example, SRI fund holders have worked to: • Improve conditions for factory

workers in developing countries • Prevent the manufacture of products

that contain toxins • Ensure company goods are not

produced by slave labour • Uncover instances of child labour in

mining operations By actively educating businesses about the impact of their operations, you can help them make sustainable choices that improve people’s lives as well as your bottom line.

If you would like to learn more about SRIs, contact Steve today at www.blackstarwealth.com

WORKING FOR YOU

2018 WONDER WOMEN CONFERENCE

THANK YOU!

HOTEL HALIFAX December 7, 2018

O

n December 7, we hosted our second Wonder Women Conference at the Hotel Halifax. It was an uplifting day, bringing nine successful and inspiring women to the stage to share their experiences on leadership, taking risks and achieving goals, with an audience of over 200 Wonder Women (and one or two Super Men). Thank you to our wonderful speakers and sponsors for making this event possible!

We will see you in June, 2019 for our third edition of Wonder Women.

SPONSORS:

BUSINESS VOICE

27

SPECIAL FEATURE

TRAVEL AND TOURISM

‘Different and unexpected’ Discovery Centre shines while hosting corporate events By Heather Laura Clarke The Discovery Centre is a beloved science centre for children and their families, but it also plays host to corporate groups throwing holiday parties, receptions, AGMs, award ceremonies, training sessions and off-site business meetings.

“It’s something different and unexpected,” says Jennifer Punch, Director of Marketing and Sales with the Discovery Centre. “The Discovery Centre comes with so much character and entertainment built in and it gets our corporate guests engaged in hands-on activities.”

The ultra-modern, open-concept 40,000-sq.-ft. facility can transform from a family-friendly play area into a sleek evening venue serving a threecourse dinner for hundreds of executives.

“When there’s a new exhibit, it’s a great opportunity for a corporate group to book in and experience it together,” says Punch. “We can also arrange for some of

our staffers to perform science demonstrations to entertain guests.”

Punch says the Discovery Centre’s corporate recess program gives teams an opportunity to break out of their routine, flex their creative muscles, bond with their colleagues and even improve their communication.

Hosting an event at the Discovery Centre is not only unique and unexpected, its an opportunity to give back.

Many don’t realize the Discovery Centre is a not-for-profit registered charity that relies heavily on corporate event rental income in order to deliver its programming and offer new experiences for visitors.

“It’s our mission to engage families in STEAM — science, technology, engineering, arts and math — and grow the scientific economy here in Nova Scotia,” says Punch. “If your company believes

in helping the next generation of science leaders, then the Discovery Centre is a good match for your generosity.”

Corporate groups can be scheduled throughout the day including early morning breakfasts and after-hours socials.

Punch says it’s easy to plan and execute an event at the Discovery Centre since there’s a full suite of catering services and audio/visual options, as well as on-site event organizers who can keep everything running smoothly.

“At the Discovery Centre, we know that children who engage in hands on learning gain a deeper understanding of concepts. But why should kids have all the fun? This facility is a community asset to be celebrated and utilized by a variety of ages — including groups looking for a distinct venue,” says Punch.

“It’s all about great events in unexpected places.”

events with

flare

With 40,000 sq. ft. of modern and innovative space, your next meeting or event at the Discovery Centre will be a sure-re hit.

Spark excitement among your guests with live science entertainment, dome theatre star shows, and corporate team challenges for a one-of-a-kind experience found only at the Discovery Centre.

28

MARCH 2019

www.thediscoverycentre.ca/venue 902.492.4422 x.2238

SPECIAL FEATURE

TRAVEL AND TOURISM

The ships are coming in Port of Halifax preparing for record-breaking cruise season By Heather Laura Clarke More than 190 cruise vessels will be calling on Halifax during the upcoming season, bringing more than 320,000 guests. While that’s fewer vessels than last year, the ones scheduled to come this year are larger and carrying more passengers overall — and Halifax is ready to greet them.

“It’s exciting when we have a fiveship day and see upwards of 10,000 cruise guests, plus all of the crew associated with that many ships,” says Lane Farguson, manager of media relations and communications for the Halifax Port Authority. “I like to watch the people leaving the Seaport area to explore on their own, or hop on one of the many buses going to Peggy’s Cove or Lunenburg or a Valley wine tour. You can feel the excitement in the air.”

July 26, 2019 will be an especially big day for Halifax as it hosts two queens

simultaneously— the Queen Elizabeth (294 m) and the Queen Mary II (345 m) — while Oct. 2 is set to be the busiest day of the season, bringing five ships with more than 10,000 guests.

An economic impact study from three years ago showed an average of 250,000 cruise guests were worth $123M in economic benefit to Halifax, so Farguson says that’s been increasing with the bump in vessel calls and guest totals.

“The cruise industry fits in with other tourism offerings in Nova Scotia.

Full credit to Develop Nova Scotia for having such a vibrant, animated waterfront that makes it comfortable for guests to walk from the Seaport area onto the

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boardwalks and into downtown to have the experiences they’re looking for,” says Farguson.

The Port of Halifax works with the Downtown Dartmouth Business Commission to encourage cruise guests to take a ferry ride across the harbour and experience its shops and restaurants. Farguson says they also work with other ports in Atlantic Canada — like Charlottetown and St. John’s and Sydney — in order to grow the industry together.

“Most of the vessels coming from Boston and New York are not just coming to Halifax and then turning around and going back,” says Farguson. “The cruise ports in Atlantic Canada work together to ensure we’re all providing that consistently high quality of experience that guests are looking for. We want them to love their time with us so they come back again someday.”

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SPECIAL FEATURE

CONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT

Evolving processes WCB Nova Scotia is changing to serve you better Contributed From framing to roofing to finish work and more, business owners across Nova Scotia’s diverse construction industry agree that less paperwork would be a good thing.

And less paperwork is just one benefit that Nova Scotia’s construction industry will see — along with all employers and workers — as WCB Nova Scotia modernizes its services.

New state-of-the-art systems will be implemented beginning in the spring of 2019, allowing a different kind of service from the WCB. The WCB is moving away from paper-based processes and adding more online services to make it easier for you to do business. New, more powerful systems will make service faster, streamline processes and put you in better control of your own data and information.

The WCB is updating the

MyAccount online portal for business owners and adding in new features that will make it easier to do business with us.

Here are some of the changes that will have a direct benefit for the construction industry: SUBCONTRACTOR REPORTS •

The new clearance status process enables online subcontractor reporting. Through MyAccount, principals can keep track of the subcontractors they hire online in real-time and the paper subcontracting report will be phased out.

CLEARANCE STATUS • Proof of clearance status will be

available online through our new

and improved MyAccount employer portal.

Workplace injuries hurt the most at home.

Make workplace safety a priority, so you and your co-workers can get home to those who count on you.

Find out more at worksafeforlife.ca

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MARCH 2019

•

Principals will be able to log in to MyAccount to confirm subcontractor clearance 24/7, searchable from any device or job site.

•

Clearance status will simply be indicated as either “clear” or “not clear” and opting in for automatic notifications means principals will receive an email from us if that status changes. It’s fast, easy, convenient and eliminates the need for paper clearance letters.

There’s much more to come. Make sure you stay informed.

If you are not currently a MyAccount user, get ready for these changes and sign up for MyAccount today by visiting www.wcb.ns.ca. Watch for more updates at www.wcb.ns.ca/servicechanges.

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CONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT

HVAC investigation benefits Efficiency Nova Scotia’s programs can improve a business’s bottom line By Heather Laura Clarke Whether it’s a freezing-cold office building where the employees resort to heavy sweaters and space heaters, or an overheated warehouse where employees are sweating in the middle of winter, it’s a sign something isn’t right with the building’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC).

Donald Dodge, Business Development Manager with Efficiency Nova Scotia, says comfort is often an issue in buildings where HVAC systems are malfunctioning or multiple systems are working against each other.

“We see situations where the tenants on one side of a building keep calling the building manager because they’re all cold, while on the other side of the building they’re all calling because they’re too hot,” says Dodge. “That means something is not right. Your tenants are uncomfortable and your building is using more energy

than it needs to be using.”

Efficiency Nova Scotia can help any type of commercial property from new construction, custom projects and even building recommissioning where they’ll help investigate potential energy efficiency issues.

“Energy efficiency works for everybody. It improves your bottom line, improves your competitiveness and makes for happier, more comfortable tenants who are able to concentrate on their work,” says Dodge.

Efficiency Nova Scotia can organize for HVAC professionals to visit a building for a full investigative study. The study helps determine if the equipment in the building is set properly and if the different components are working together or not.

“Maybe a building has very old equipment that needs to be replaced, but it might just need to have variable frequency

drives installed on its motors and fans,” says Dodge. “Even without replacing any equipment, an investigation study focusing on recommissioning existing equipment can lead to as much as 200,000 kWh of energy in a single year.”

Dodge says it’s the ultimate compliment when a building owner has been so pleased with Efficiency Nova Scotia’s help on one building that they come back to ask about potential energy issues in their other buildings.

He says building owners shouldn’t let worries about potential costs keep them from calling Efficiency Nova Scotia — they’re there to help.

“Our job is to help guide them and show them what’s available to offset any costs,” says Dodge. “Whether it’s a small business or one of the largest buildings in town, we always try to find a way to help them.”

Attract new tenants.

Impress current ones.

Partner with Efficiency Nova Scotia for fewer maintenance issues and a more comfortable environment.

We’ll help your building grow into a bustling community of long-term residents and businesses.

Learn more at efficiencyns.ca/commercial

Enjoy the good things efficiency brings.

BUSINESS VOICE

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SPECIAL FEATURE

CONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT

Safety culture a journey How Construction Safety Nova Scotia is working to evolve attitudes towards safety By Heather Laura Clarke If you’ve ever watched someone on the job shrug about a potentially dangerous practice and say “Eh, it’s just the way we do things around here,” you’ve had a brush with negative safety culture.

Safety culture refers to an organization’s beliefs, attitudes and values regarding safety — which develop over time from leadership, employees and work practices. Construction Safety Nova Scotia (CSNS), wants to shift the conversation from “What do I have to do?” to “What do I have to do to be safe?”

Isaac Hill, occupational health and safety advisor with CSNS, says every organization has a safety culture.

Whether that culture is rooted in wellestablished routines and practices, or leaves room for improvement, it’s there.

With their Safety Culture Project currently in its fourth year, CSNS created a survey to measure an organization’s

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safety culture, asking questions to determine what factors influence safety culture in each organization.

CSNS surveyed more than 1,700 employees with 40 different employers within the construction industry, to develop a benchmark for safety culture.

Once everyone had their results, CSNS suggested short- and long-term interventions and encouraged each organization to try to improve their first measurement.

“The Safety Culture Project is about taking a different approach to safety in order to reduce workplace accidents,” says Hill. “Safety culture is not a sprint.

It’s not an initiative you launch once and forget about. It is a continual process that needs to be measured regularly in order to lead your organization’s improvement.”

When an organization assesses its own safety culture, Hill says that

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knowledge gives them the power to identify the positive aspects they should build upon, while revealing key opportunities for improvement.

“One easy step you can take, is to consistently give positive feedback when your employees are working safely,” says Hill. “It sounds simple, but it can make a world of difference to your employees if you create a work environment where staff value and recognize safe work practices” There are potential hazards in any workplace and no matter the industry, Hill says leadership is key in championing a positive safety culture — from senior management down to front-line management.

For more information on assessing your company’s safety culture, please visit constructionsafetyns.ca/ safety-culture.

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CONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT

Contributing to productivity Recent grads impact agri-food company in Halifax Contributed Knowing the story behind the fish helps a Halifax seafood company bring sustainable, low-impact fishing traditions back to the dinner plate — and knowing the story behind the female-led team at Afishionado Fishmongers helps to explain the impact that millennials are having on small business.

CEO Hana Nelson says that the young people she hires bring passion and knowledge to the company that she can’t find anywhere else.

“The graduates we’ve hired are really enthusiastic about this sector. They have the most up-to-date training, the ability to be really adaptable and access to the latest research,” says Hana. “Their energy, skill-sets and knowledge help propel us forward.”

Hiring those recent grads was made easier for Hana by the Graduate to Opportunity (GTO) program, a provincial

salary incentive that helps small businesses, start-ups, social enterprises and non-profits to hire recent grads for permanent, full-time jobs. GTO offers 25 per cent of a grad’s first year (35 per cent if the grad is diverse) and 12.5 per cent of a grad’s second year salary to eligible employers in the province.

Hana hired Laurie Starr with her freshly-minted master’s degree from Dalhousie’s Marine Management program. Laurie began as a product specialist focused on delivery and led some marketing events, including the Catch-of-theWeek Program. Two years later, she’s been promoted to Manager of Operations.

“Laurie is so passionate and knowledgeable about seafood issues and the local researchers who are exploring these topics,” says Hana. “As a wholesale business, we want to align with the values of the restaurants we serve — and Laurie’s work is

an important component of this equation.”

Laurie says she enjoys tackling the problem-solving aspect of her role.

“As a young person, I feel that recent grads like me choose not to waste time in a work setting. We thrive in hands-on environments related to what we’ve studied,” says Laurie. “Millennials contribute to very productive workplaces.”

Hana credits Laurie’s advancement in the company to her initiative and her willingness to do what needs to be done.

“She is so organized and detail-oriented, but also sees the bigger picture,” says Hana. “Having a grad like this in the sector brings us top notch systematic skills that I, as a business owner, don’t possess to the same degree that a recent grad does.”

Learn more about how the GTO program can benefit your company at novascotia.ca/GTO. Applications are always turned around within five business days.

Shakisha’s ability to project manage, upgrade technology and partner with new communities has taken our organization to a whole new level.

SARAH ARNOLD, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR HALIFAX LEARNING CENTRES The Graduate to Opportunity Program provides salary contributions to small businesses, start-up companies, social enterprises, and non-prot organizations to help hire a recent grad. To breathe new life into your workforce, visit NOVASCOTIA.CA/GTO

SHAKISHA DOWNEY ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR HALIFAX LEARNING CENTRES

BUSINESS VOICE

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SPECIAL FEATURE

CONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT

‘Homes for every style and every budget’ Ramar Homes builds your home, your way By Heather Laura Clarke Building or buying a home is a big decision and the market is flooded with builders and contractors, style options, finishes, floor plans and neighbourhoods as the Halifax area grows quickly.

With the recent slowdown in home sales in historically-dominant markets Toronto and Vancouver — which, combined, now only account for 22 per cent of national home sales in 2018 — Atlantic Canada’s oldest and most trusted homebuilder is taking advantage of our region’s buoyant real estate market.

“HRM and our surrounding areas are booming,” said Chris Marchand, Vice President of Operations at Ramar Homes. “We’re building in subdivisions where new homeownership is realistic for first-time buyers and a great option for those looking to downsize.”

While most other companies are pure volume builders, Chris says Ramar has been able to successfully adjust by offering truly custom plans for every buyer. Along with their full-time team of home designers, construction managers, renovation coordinators, warranty experts and administrators, Ramar also employs between 75 and 100 subcontractors.

The homegrown company is currently building in the brand-new eighth phase of Glen Arbour, as well as the new Soaring Way in Hammonds Plains.

Other Ramar communities, like Five Island Lake, Highland Park, Lakeview Estates, Long Lake Village, Lost Creek, Oceanside Estates, Schwarzwald Heights and Twin Brooks, are seeing exponential growth and interest.

“We design and build homes for every style and every budget,” said Marchand. “With Ramar, you can build or buy a new construction single-family home for the price of a Toronto condominium and get everything you want.”

Chris credits their success to hard work, listening to what the customers want and working within their budget.

“Everyone’s project is undertaken and built to their specific, custom requests 34

and as if we were working on our own personal residence,” says Chris. “After all, we believe you should love where you live.”

Ramar Homes has been working for Atlantic Canadians for nearly 35 years and Chris estimates they’ve built about 3,500 homes so far — bungalows and split-entries and two-storey homes of all shapes and sizes.

“We don’t build just one type of home. We build everything from an entrylevel home to a home as big and impressive as you can imagine,” says Chris.

Every customer, every home, every project and every new step forward requires the same level of commitment.”

— Chris Marchand, Vice President, Operations, Ramar Homes He says the trends they are seeing in new builds and from buyers’ requests are really driven by lifestyle.

“It’s easy to describe what’s hot and what’s not in terms of what buyers don’t want,” said Chris. “Whether our customer is a millennial or a downsizer, they don’t want carpeting, walnut cabinets and old-school gold fixtures. So, it’s far easier to custom build what they want — interesting floor patterns, lots of contrast, a variety of materials like bamboo, stone and concrete and lots of storage.”

Chris says when a person is going through the process of building a home, the Ramar team tries to make it as simple and convenient as possible for them.

Their office on Temple Terrace in Lower Sackville doubles as a “one-stop showroom” so homeowners can walk in to sign documents and leave with their home fully designed and finishes selected.

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The showroom is stocked with everything a buyer needs to make decisions on — like tile, flooring and fixtures — saving them time, money and travel-time on what would otherwise be piecemeal decision-making, while they also enjoy plenty of individual attention.

“We take pride in our work, providing every customer with exemplary service,” says Chris. “Every customer, every home, every project and every new step forward requires the same level of commitment.”

Founded in 1985 by Chris’s grandfather, Ray Marchand, Ramar Homes is owned by Ray’s two sons, Larry Marchand and Darrell Marchand. Scott Sim and Shawn Marchand serve as Vice President of Sales & Home Design and Vice President of Construction, respectively.

When Ray started out building homes in Lower Sackville, Chris doesn’t think he’d ever have expected Ramar homes to be sold to buyers from across the globe — but that’s exactly what’s been happening lately.

The company recently joined forces with Engel & Völkers, which operates a global network of more than 11,000 real estate professionals in more than 36 countries.

Marchand says Engel & Völkers has been helping them reach a more global audience, since their advisors work with clients from all over the world who are interested in relocating to Nova Scotia.

From picking out a lot and deciding on a home style to seeing it all the way through the gleaming finishing touches, Chris says Ramar employees are proud to be following in Ray’s footsteps and making sure their customers are happy.

“His leadership by example, his dedication, hard work and his highest regard for homeowners is a legacy inherited by everyone who works for him,” says Chris.

“The benchmark he expects us to achieve is epic. It’s the same challenge he set for himself back in 1985 when Ramar Homes was founded.”