Business Service Centres Heighten Prospects
for Success
Supporting the expansion of businesses,
whether they are in the early stages of development or well-established
in their respective industry, is a focal point of the Provincial
Government's business development agenda. It is a results-driven agenda
that is focused on having the right tools available at the right time
for businesses to capitalize on opportunities when they arise.
That is why the Provincial Government has
employed a set of business development programs that support the
evolution of companies from start-up to commercialization and from
workforce development to improving operational efficiencies.
Each program has proven to be effective and
each has a distinct role.
Another function of our business development
agenda is providing entrepreneurs or start-ups with general guidance
such as how best to prepare a business plan, where to turn for
financing, or studies on specific industries.
This may seem straightforward but it is quite
important in the progression from idea to full-fledged business.
Recognizing a need to have the necessary
resources available to help address such queries, the Provincial
Government, in partnership with the Federal Government, supports the
Canada Newfoundland and Labrador Business Service Centre.
Business service centres, as they are more
commonly referred to, can be found in close to 40 communities in the
province. Whether in Baie Verte, Charlottetown, Forteau or Stephenville,
each business service centre is committed to providing business owners
and operators with the information they need to satisfy their
objectives.
The business service centres average more than
3,000 inquires annually. While each interaction varies, the scope of
service offered includes one-on-one counseling, a library of business
news, as well as skills development learning sessions such as lunch and
learns.
Business service centres also work with
economic development agencies, aboriginal development groups,
municipalities, and community business development corporations to
provide information, training, and referral services to clients. The
Export Development Corporation for example, provides access to its
expertise on export markets and the opportunity to readily refer clients
to other sources for greater information.
Business service centres also work closely
with staff from the Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural
Development's 22 offices. Together, they provide clients with timely
information and ensure they have the financial resources to stimulate
business expansion.
Greater knowledge and access to business
development programming significantly heightens the prospects for
success. I encourage all potential and existing business owners to tap
into the vast knowledge and information that exists.
2010 12 15
2:35 p.m.