Small Business Celebration helps entrepreneurs start their journey

Speaking to the importance of learning new things, time management and self-discipline for those looking to start their own business, McLeod said the day’s event also brought to the forefront another of the true staples of the trade, no matter the entrepreneurial quest.

“Networking is super important, especially as an entrepreneur, to get your face out there and meet people in real life and not just online, so it’s so nice to get back together now as a community,” she said.

Nathan Arias, who started IOPPS to help share job opportunities with the Indigenous community, talked about how his entrepreneurial journey began simply with a Facebook page, that evolved into the current-day website and eventually led him to add other ventures such as podcasting and even a clothing brand.

He said he hopes events like Wednesday’s will inspire others to follow their passions and shed some light on some of the supports available for those looking to get started on their own path.

“It’s awesome, more events are needed like this and there are so many opportunities where we live right here in Battleford and North Battleford,” he said. “There’s so much we can promote especially through Indigenous business, Métis business, and any other business.”

He said if there’s one message he hopes people will take away from the day, it’s to take advantage of the resources available, many of which were talked about at the event.

“There are so many organizations out there to help you. Whether you’re non-Indigenous, Métis, First Nation, Inuit, you’ve just got to pick up your phone and [look into it],” he said. “You’ve just got to want it, and the resources are there.”

The resources shared Wednesday to help aspiring entrepreneurs include the following:

General manager at Northwest Community Futures, Lisa Cimmer, said it was great to see a full meeting room come out to listen to Wednesday’s speakers.

“It went really well,” Cimmer said with a smile. “It was our first in-person event since the COVID pandemic, so we were crossing our fingers and I’m just really happy all these financial providers and educational systems were able to come together today.”

“My goal having Abbie and Nathan here was to give people inspiration,” Cimmer continued. “They’re local people, they grew up here, and they know what it’s like to be in this region – the challenges and the advantages. Then having all the providers like GDI and Clarence Campeau, SMEDCO and Procurement, hopefully just gives people inspiration that there are people out there that can help them get to where they want to be.”

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Martin.Martinson@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @MartyMartyPxP1

by Martin Martinson

Small Business Celebration helps entrepreneurs start their journey

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