Let’s face it, it’s not easy to take an idea and turn it into a reality. Being an entrepreneur is hard because it’s all on you! Success is on you. Results are on you. Making the call is on you.
The truth is that being an entrepreneur will test you in ways you didn’t think possible, but we want you to pursue it anyway. We also want you to know that you’re not alone. There are a ton of support services and funding opportunities available to entrepreneurs in the Okanagan who are ready to take the plunge.
Export Navigator Program
Growing your business into new markets comes with many challenges. Small Business BC has developed the Export Navigator Program to help BC companies map with export and business assessments, market entry strategies and tools and much more.
The best thing about this program is that they’ve hired someone here in the Okanagan to help your company expand into new markets, and did we mention that this service was FREE?!
If you have questions and are looking for support Ken MacLeod is the Export Advisor for the Okanagan region. Ken can provide essential services at no cost to qualified businesses that will receive a personalized, step-by-step approach to exporting as well as assistance to connect their business to available market information, export programs, financial services, and business development experts at every stage of the process.
Eligibility for the Export Navigator Program
-
Has your company received sales inquiries from outside of British Columbia?
-
Does your company have excess production capacity or the ability to scale operations?
-
Is your company’s management willing to dedicate time and money to develop a new market for a sustained period of time?
-
Is your company willing to conduct market research?
-
Does your product or service have a competitive advantage (quality, price, innovation, etc.) over similar products in your target market?
-
Is your company able to secure financing to adapt, ship, and market your product in your target market?
How can Accelerate Okanagan help? We thought you’d never ask!
If you are looking to connect with Ken, we would be happy to provide an intro.
Want to learn more about funding and support resources? Come check out our next Funding and Support presentation on September 25th or connect with me and let’s find funding and support that will work for you and your business.
