A popular program that has served as a launchpad for up-and-coming Shuswap businesses is back.
The Shuswap Launch-a-Preneur legacy continues to resonate through Salmon Arm's business community and the likes of Missy Mackintosh of MisMack Clean Cosmetics, Anna DeWolff of Choose Refill, Marcus Jaeger of Inspired Breads and other successful entrepreneurs who have participated in the local, bi-annual program.
Now in its seventh season, Shuswap Launch-A-Preneur offers a six-week journey through which participants come together to learn, collaborate and develop their business plans. The program's finale gives its participants the opportunity to share their entrepreneurial visions with the community at a celebratory event planned for Nov. 14 at Song Sparrow Hall.
Designed by Salmon Arm Economic Development Society and Community Futures Shuswap (SAEDS), with support from Okanagan College and sponsor Doane Grant Thornton, this year's Launch-a-Preneur comes with a new approach, one that fosters collaboration over competition. It centres on "connecting with other businesses and your peers and creating more camaraderie and community," said SAEDS' Kate Watson.
The program begins on Sept. 4 with an orientation meeting, at which new and past participants, mentors and community supporters are invited to celebrate the start of the season.
Over the following six weeks, participants take part in two evening sessions per week. At these hands-on workshops they'll receive mentorship with a focus on the developing business plans and essential entrepreneurial skills.
Facilitating the sessions will be Thompson/Okanagan Community Futures director Nicole Clark who, for the past four decades, has worked with small business owners and entrepreneurs throughout the province as they develop their business and financial plans to launch or grow their business.
After completing the workshops, participants will have an opportunity to pitch their ideas to a panel of business mentors in a private setting. Watson said this is to help elevate the experience, giving participants a chance to receive invaluable insight and constructive feedback to help refine their pitches.
As in the past, Launch-a-Preneur concludes with a community event, where those who have completed all requirements are given an opportunity to share their new business with the public. Unlike past years, there will be no prizes handed out for first, second or third place 鈥� all participants are celebrated equally.
"This is the best shop local campaign you could imagine!," said Watson, noting each business that makes it on stage for this final event will receive a support package comprised of financial and in-kind contributions.
To run the program, a minimum of 10 participants need to register. To be eligible for the program, you must be 19 years of age or older and have been in business 18 months or less. Computer literacy, including an understanding of Excel and Word or equivalent software is a must. Participants must also be residents of the Shuswap and plan to start their business in the region.
Further information about the program, including a thorough outline and registration, can be found at .
