Tag Archive for: Entrepreneurship

Empty Keg Brew House your relaxed, family friendly, and socially responsible place.

Photo courtesy of EKBH.

At some point in our lives, we find ourselves in a situation when a decision is required if we want to move forward.

Empty Keg Brew House – Have you been in a situation that you prefer to delay instead of making a decision because you are not sure of the outcome? In general, it is normal to be concerned when we do not know how things will turn out.

Empty Keg Brew House – Starting your own business.

It is well known that starting a business is not easy nor is it for everyone.  In my opinion, most people have had a business idea in mind at some point in their lives. Throughout my employment as a business analyst, I have learned that every entrepreneur encounters roadblocks that slow them down or completely prevent them from starting their own business. On the other hand, I have dealt with clients that take all these roadblocks as learning opportunities along the way in their entrepreneurial path. Working with Kyle Hall of Empty Keg Brew House has taught me a way to deal with common issues in a more productive way while working on opening a business.

Build a case for Empty Keg Brew House.

Kyle and Kelly Hall are the owners and operators of our newest microbrewery in Merritt, BC, Canada called Empty Keg Brew House. While gathering more information to work on this story, I had the opportunity to learn more about the origins of Kyle’s business, and I am happy to share hoping that Kyle’s story will encourage you to take action and work on that business idea you have set aside. The fact is, there is never a bad time to launch a business if you have identified the need of your product or service.

the Rhubarb and Raspberry patch! Photo courtesy of EKBH.

Where did the idea of starting a microbrewery come from?

About 27 years ago the idea of brewing beer crossed Kyle’s mind. With only making $5.50 per hour to support his family back then, it was all about making cheap beer.  As a beer enthusiast, Kyle had never been to school for brewing, but instead he learned as he went. Kyle moved from extract to partial grain then full grain. Much to the delight of his family, that venture never took off, but his passion for beer continued to blossom. 5 years ago, Kyle remembers sitting around the table with his family and friends when someone suddenly said, “If you ever open a brewery, you will never be able to keep your kegs full”. Hence, the name Empty Keg Brew House.

Questions of a small business?

As any other entrepreneur, Kyle questioned himself: should we open a microbrewery? Could we open a microbrewery? When the opportunity came a few years later; he did not hesitate to seize it. He decided to move forward with his business idea. For that Kyle decided to further his skills in brewing, as a result, he completed the Master Beer Brewing Certificate in 2015.
Kyle envisioned creating a place where locals and visitors could enjoy various types of locally brewed beers made from as many local ingredients as possible.

Photo courtesy of EKBH.

Getting into the Craft Beer industry.

If you think the most difficult part of starting a business is taking the crucial first step, you are wrong. Just wait to learn all the different licenses and regulations you must obtain to move forward within your specific industry. I remember Kyle working hard to get his variance rezoning approved. He also had to apply for his manufacturer and lounge endorsement licenses. It was not just applying for a permit or license; it was starting over and making changes so that your application can move forward to the next phase and waiting to see if there was any other requirement at the end of the day. Many entrepreneurs ask themselves at this phase, how much longer will it take to get their licenses? They always want it to go faster to stay within their milestones.

Grand Opening July 3, 2019

What was your experience at the Grand Opening?

For most people, a grand opening can be a powerful way to launch your new business. It creates awareness and generates a buzz about your new product or service offered in your community. When I asked Kyle about his own experience after all the hurdles he had gone through, his answer was: “We were scared out of our minds.” By the end of the soft opening he recalls asking himself – “What have we gotten ourselves into? It was a whirlwind that seemed so overwhelming. We worked against a tight deadline to be ready for the big date. I was lucky to count on my wife Kelly, my daughter, my nephew and other family members and friends who helped with the renovations until the day prior to the opening.”

experience merritt

My experience during the first months in business.

Before starting your own business, you work on financial projections and cash flow based on market research. As part of this market research, you determine your target market, but it is not until you are running your business you realize how close your projections are to your actuals. While determining his target market, Kyle looked at college age and up to maybe 45-50, but they have a wide range of friends that come in. The typical attitude on presenting the idea of a local Brew House was “we don’t need another bar in town”. But Empty Keg Brew House is a place where you can go and socialize, hang out, play some games while you have a beer, glass of wine or coffee.

‘Give-Back Wednesday’ donation went to NVSSS Housing First. Photo courtesy of EKBH.

What is Empty Keg Brew House 5 year vision?

Kyle would like to continue to do what they are doing now. They have focused on a “Give back Wednesday”, which is a way for the customers and the Keg to give back to local non-profit organizations. It is very well received; it is contributing to help local organizations who are playing a key component for the betterment of our social, economic, environmental, and cultural conditions of the Nicola Valley. As mentioned by Kyle “We would like to continue helping these organizations on a monthly basis. On the first Wednesdays of the month we “Give Back” a portion of our sales to local non-profit organizations. Although, Empty Keg does not have a Kitchen, they do offer appetizers and they support other eating establishments by allowing food from those approved sources to accompany the beers they offer. For example, they have Yaki Joe’s Pizza right next door and clients often bring in food from there and have a beer when they are hanging out with their family and friends.

Photo courtesy of EKBH.

What is your favorite thing about being a business owner?

Running a small business can be very rewarding, but as I said before it’s not for everyone. There are easier ways to make a living. Are all the long hours, hard work and sacrifice worth it? It sounds like it. According to Forbes, 90 percent of survey respondents say they would do it again and 65% say they are better off financially than if they’d remained someone else’s employee.

Kyle and Kelly have worked very hard to be able to open their brew house. They have dealt with parking variance rezoning, manufacturers licensing requirements, inspections and much more. I would not be able to calculate how much sweat equity Kyle and Kelly have put into their business. For every setback they experienced while working on their business, their commitment and dedication became stronger than ever.

Merritt’s Kitchen Party.

As Kyle said “There are so many things to do, we can do whatever we wish to, the two captains (he was referring to himself and his wife Kelly) can steer the ship wherever we want. It is rewarding to see smiles on everyone’s faces when they are enjoying not only the product but the atmosphere. People say this is a great place. We’ve had a lot of visitors from out of town say that our space reminds them of a “Kitchen Party””.

Empty Keg Brew House is a small scale micro Brewery.

Empty Keg Brew House is a small scale micro Brewery located in Merritt. This Brewery has recently opened their doors in our community offering locally made craft beer. A great place where locals and visitors can enjoy various types of in-house brewed beers made from local ingredients.

If you have not visited this place, I encourage you to stop by and enjoy some of their offerings. With more than eight unique beers on tap, Empty Keg offers a variety of options that include Kilt Lifter Scottish 80, Scared the Dark Stout, Blond Ale and many more.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Empty Keg Brew House
2190 Voght St, Merritt, BC V1K 1C1
(250) 315-2337

www.emptykegbrewhouse.ca

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Merritt, British Columbia, Canada bee

Best Selling Author Trina Hall in Merritt BC.

 

Let Trina Hall help you take your life to a higher level in all areas of your life.

 Motivational Speaker Trina Hall in Merritt BC.

 

Best Selling Author Trina Hall “Note to Self: Empowerment” along with her seminar called “Elevate Your Life”

Award-winning & best selling author Trina Hall visits Merritt, British Columbia, Canada. Additionally, Trina Hall is a blogger, motivational speaker and intuitive life coach. Firstly, it is important to note she has had a tumultuous life resulting in Trina gaining decades of wisdom and insight. Frequently she was knocked down until, eventually, she hit  rock bottom.  Through her writings, television, radio shows, social media or in-person she has transformed countless lives around the globe. Moreover I am so glad I did not miss Best Selling Author and Motivational Speaker Trina Hall when she was in Merritt BC.   

Best Selling Author Motivational Speaker Merritt BC.

Book signing Trina Hall. Best Selling Author Merritt BC

” Note to Self: Empowerment”
7 Steps to help you find your true self, purpose, and power within.  Best selling author Trina Hall.

(Q1) “What inspired you to write “Note to Self: Empowerment” Trina?”

(Answer) While noticing that several people were asking me the same questions and advice. I asked myself, “would it not be easier  to write a book.” Since I have overcome so many tough obstacles in my life I felt compelled to share my wisdom and insights gained through my experiences to better the lives of others therefore preventing or at least easing the pain and suffering of others. Because so many people are suffering silently while trying to hold it together. By my account I strongly believe that an amazing life starts from the inside out. Consequently I wanted to write a book about self-empowerment because once you get yourself right, your relationships and your entire life will start to fall into place.

Best Selling Author Merritt

Trina Hall Best Selling Author Motivational Speaker in Greece.

“Take Back Your Power and Live the Life “You” are Meant to.” Trina Hall

experiencemerritt

(Q2) Who do you believe is your target audience?

Best Selling Author Motivational Speaker Merritt BC.

Best Selling Author and Motivational Speaker “Trina Hall” in Merritt BC.

(Answer) Primarily mostly women and men between the ages of 40-65 tend to be drawn towards my book. Specifically when it reflects on their lives and asking the deeper questions like, “Who I am” and “What am I put on this earth to do”? All these questions while doing things for others then realizing that they have lost themselves in the process. In fact the book is for the heart-centered amazing people who have been knocked down, taken advantage of, taken for granted and have lost themselves trying to please others.

(Q3) What could a person expect to receive from reading your Bestselling Book Note to Self”

This book guides you on your journey to self-discovery so you can find out who you truly are and want you truly want in life. It will also help uncover your purpose and power within. You will not feel alone. It allows you the necessary time to self-reflect and heal, while feeling like I am there with you every step of the way. You will learn to love, accept and believe in yourself through my inspiring stories and wisdom. It definitely offers you strength and clarity if you are feeling knocked down or have any self-doubt.

“Do not take it personally when others cannot see or appreciated your magnificence. Their eyes are clouded by their own unhappiness”  Trina Hall

 

Best Selling Author and Motivational Speaker Merritt BC.

Trina Hall with Daughter Jasmine Stewart.

(Q4) What insights, purpose and power did you experience and or gain from writing this very self exposing tumultuous life events that most people would feel to vulnerable to share?

(Answer) Although I used to think vulnerability was a weakness. Realizing vulnerability is the greatest strength. In regards to taking your power back. After all Comedians make fun of themselves before others can. At the same time being open in my book, worked in a similar way. Completely being unaffected by those who knocked me down freed me. Notwithstanding it was the final step allowing me to be free leaving my past behind.

 

“YOU ABSOLUTELY CANNOT FAIL AT BEING YOU”  Trina Hall

Best Selling Author Merritt BC.

Trina with her daughter Jasmine at talk show promoting her book.

(Q5) Certainly you provide profound wisdom, incredible insights, valuable tips and simple exercises in order to avoid needless suffering throughout your book. What inspired you to have “Note To Self Exercises” in some of your chapters?

(Answer) Moreover you feel more empowered when you are actively doing something to help a certain situation. Also I find many people resonate with my personal stories. Additionally, I  learn from my mistakes, while others need to physically do the work with a more hands-on approach. As a result, the exercises give an insight to what I did to overcome my struggles. I wanted to include the reader in this process so they could get the most out of my book. The title Note to Self: Empowerment has a double meaning. When you write down your answers to the exercises, they become your “notes to self” leading to empowerment.

“Forgiving others is essential for spiritual growth.”  Dr. Wayne W. Dyer

Merritt motivational speaker trina hall.

DR. Wayne Dyer with Trina Hall.

“Although I love all the 7 Steps in your book “Note To Self: Empowerment”, the 6th Step: Forgive and Take Your Power Back is one of the hardest for myself.” Tania Stewart.

trina Hall elevate your life

“Elevate Your Life” with Trina Hall. Best Selling Author Motivational Speaker Merritt BC.

Trina is looking forward to “Transforming Your Life”. Equally an inspiration for “You” to look at improving your life. Best Selling Author Trina Hall in Merritt BC

“Furthermore as the direction of your path becomes clearer, you will be able to move forward through life with confidence.” Trina Hall

Best Selling Author Motivational Speaker Merritt BC.

Trina Hall.

(Q6) What started you into motivational speaking and your first seminar/event Trina?

(Answer) Firstly, I was always the shy person who hid behind my writing. I was absolutely terrified of public speaking! But back in 2015, someone desperately wanted to buy my book to help out her best friend. Because there are so many steps to writing/publishing a book it took longer than anticipated to publish because of some of the setbacks we faced. I did not want to rush publishing my book either.

Therefore I tried to think of another way to help her friend. I created a seminar called “Elevate Your Life”.  Subsequently would be the fastest way to help, as well as a comfortable outing for both of them to enjoy. Funny how your passion to help someone can trump any fear of public speaking!!! The plan was to only do one seminar, but from that one event someone else offered me a speaking engagement and people have continued to need my help. Needless to say, I haven’t stopped.

Best Selling Author Merritt

Best Selling Author Merritt BC Trina Hall.

(Q7) What can people expect from your seminar?

(Answer) Immediately you can definitely expect positivity, growth, inspiration and motivation. Furthermore, you will learn how to get unstuck by getting over past hurts and fears so you can gain confidence and thrive while learning how to continue to grow when you feel like others are holding you back. My seminar is all about elevating all areas in your life and lifting people up to the next level and beyond. Subsequently, you will be given the tools, insights and clarity to help you thrive, live outside of your comfort zone and become the best version of yourself.

Best Selling Author Motivational Speaker Merritt BC.

Trina Hall with daughter Jasmine Ashley.

(Q8) How did your daughter, Jasmine Stewart become a part of Elevate Your Life?

(Answer) We have always been a dynamic mother-daughter duo and she is practically a mini version of me. Jasmine has been around throughout most of my hardships, so she gained a lot of wisdom that way. Together we broke some vicious cycles and other generational destructive patterns, which is an area most people struggle with. Being a registered nurse, Jasmine is qualified to speak about health and healing. Together we can help others with their complete body, mind and soul connection. Moreover Jasmine really wanted to be a part of this particular seminar because she has such a strong tie to Merritt and I feel she will add even more value and inspiration.

“Your time is now to get the love you always desired and the inner peace you long for. Take back your power and live the life you are meant to.” Trina Hall 

mrrogersandme

Mr. Rogers and Trina Hall

(Q9) What made you decide to bring your seminar to Merritt?

(Answer) My dear friend Tania (Jasmine’s aunt) is from there. For the past couple of years after I held my seminar in Ontario, she would suggest that I bring my seminar to Merritt. She felt there is a huge need for what I have to offer since not very many motivational speakers go there. I know how it is like living in a smaller town and always having to travel for concerts and events, so it is nice when people come to them. I used to live in Merritt for a bit and Jasmine’s family is from there so it gave us even more reason to make the trip.

(Q10) Trina how can your seminar help the people of Merritt?

(Answer) I think my style will appeal to a close-knit town like Merritt. It will be pretty intimate so we can maximize growth and transformation. In addition to growing up in a small town in Northern Ontario, I also lived in Merritt for a bit so I understand the challenges, dreams and desires. Jasmine and I have a connection to Merritt and feel the attendees will really resonate with us. Furthermore, I think this will help us make a greater positive impact. I have traveled around the world learning from the top leaders in the personal growth and entrepreneurial industry, as well as, I have gained a lot of wisdom and insights through personal experience which is invaluable. We look forward to sharing all this and more with the people of Merritt.

Trina Hall.

Notably many people have read “Note to Self” more than twice, even 5 plus times.

In fact readers keep it right on their nightstand at all times. This is all crazy for me to hear and seems surreal.  Specifically seeing that it has such an impact!!! “It makes it all worth putting my vulnerability out there.” Trina Hall.

Merritt motivation

Trina Hall with husband Jason Pake.

In Conclusion.

Withstanding adversity and knockdowns, Trina has truly come out on top. She is making a life in helping people going through the same traumas she endured. Furthermore it is a pathway to sharing her life story, her vulnerability along with her strength.  

For more information go to: https://www.facebook.com/trinahallauthor

Note to Self: Empowerment is available on Amazon worldwide. 

Best Selling Author Trina Hall in Merritt BC

Being The Best Version of You

 

 

Merritt, B.C. Unique Businesses

Earthwalker, one of our Merritt, B.C. Unique Businesses with a twist

I have the best customers! They range in age from 4 to 75 years old.” Renee Henry, Earthwalker

When you are checking out our Merritt BC businesses, you will wonder what sort of business Earthwalker might be. Not only is Earthwalker a spiritual store, the owner, Renee, tells me it is also a gathering place where politics, religion and spiritual discussion takes place.  There is a twist. In the winter there is always a pot of hot tea waiting too. The seating is comfy, the atmosphere welcoming and respectful of everyone’s beliefs.

An inspired start

Several years ago, before Renee even thought of starting one of our Merritt BC businesses, she was laid off from her job. Unsure of what to do next, she went to a peaceful beach in Kamloops to meditate and get some clarity on what her next step should be. At the time a friend of hers had a spiritual shop and needed some help, so Renee volunteered. Since she had been interested in crystals from the age of twelve, Renee already had some background. Slowly she gathered together what she needed to open her own shop. A while later when her friend had more help, Renee launched Earthwalker, one of our Merritt BC businesses.

Why Merritt?

Renee tells me that from the first time she came to Merritt it felt like home. She loves the Merritt outdoors and we sure have plenty of that! Lots of fun stuff to do year round too. Hiking, mountain biking, cross-county skiing, fishing and swimming. For a nature enthusiast, wildcrafter, herb and food gatherer, this is paradise. “And once I saw the Hoodoos, I was hooked”, she says.

Merritt B.C. Unique Businesses, clothes and books

Some unique goodies at Earthwalker, a Merritt, B.C. Unique Business

Why a spiritual store?

Many people want to know why Renee chose this type of business. It’s simple. She wants to help people with their spiritual growth. One way she is doing this is by helping customers connect with the crystal that is right for them. In addition to being beautiful, each crystal is a tool with its own healing properties. Renee knows them well! Not only has she been learning about them since she was only 12 years old, Renee has also been a rock hound for as long as she can remember. She matches each crystal’s properties and healing elements to her client’s needs. This is truly a Merritt, B.C. Unique Business! Where else can you get this kind of attention?

Inside Earthwalker

Plan to spend some time checking out Earthwalker. Renee carries many different types and colours of stones, crystals and jewelry. It doesn’t stop here either. Best known for her knowledge, her crystals, her singing bowl and her own unique self, she also sells clothing, statues, tarot cards, books, healing items and one-of-a-kind goodies you just won’t find anywhere else! And why would you? After all, Earthwalker is one of our Merritt BC businesses.

Merritt, B.C. Unique Businesses, display case

Earthwalker. Some unique goodies beautifully displayed

Gypsy, everyone’s friend

All Merritt BC businesses have a surprise and uniqueness to themselves. Earthwalker is no exception. Meet Gypsy, a quiet, relaxing dog who is very gentle. Even if you are not a dog person, Gypsy will soon have you petting and talking to her. If you need a hug, you can be sure she knows and will wander over to offer canine comfort and support

Merritt, B.C. Unique Businesses, Earthwalker

Renee and Gypsy at Earthwalker

Before we finished the interview, I just had to ask Renee a few questions I thought potential entrepreneurs might want answers to.

Questions and answers:

Q: If you could speak to your younger self when you were just starting out, what advice would you give?

A: Do some accounting courses first! That would be a huge help. Also, the importance of social media and technology awareness is crucial! It is invaluable in promoting and marketing your business. Also, in today’s tough business climate  you need to be known on social media.  Your business will increase as your social media exposure increases.

Q: What are your favorite things about being an owner?

A: I dictate how my day goes. How I treat people or how much time I give them is not mandated by someone else.

Q: What future plans do you have for Earthwalker?

A: I would like to take more courses in the healing arts, holistic healing and women in business. In the autumn, I want to do more connecting with businesses. Lots of men are starting to get involved as well as women. More community connections. I would like to be able to hire more staff and offer more services.

Q: Speaking of community connection, is there another person or business you would recommend?

A: Angela Kerr. She is a Reiki master and reflexologist.

Q: What one book would you recommend every small business owner read?

A: Small Business For Dummies (Canadian version).

Q: Can you describe your customers?

A: I have the best customers! They range in age from 4 to 75 years old. There are a mixture of men, women and families.  My customers come from all walks of life.  Some need help and others come for information or to socialize. As I said, I have the best customers. (BIG GRIN)

Q: As a business owner, what are your top three priorities?

A: Community connections, people feeling that this is a safe, open place to come and be happy, satisfied customers.

Fall classes at Earthwalker

This fall Renee will be offering classes in:
– wire wrapping
– crystals
– reiki, level 1 and 2

If you are interested , please contact Renee at:
phone: 250-315-5350
email: earthwalkerspirit@hotmail.com
facebook: earthwalkerspiritualshop

Not only is Earthwalker one of our Merritt BC businesses, you can see from this interview that the owner, Renee Henry, is as unique as her business. Be sure to treat yourself to a visit soon. 

Merritt, B.C. unique business 

Earthwalker in Merritt BC Canada

Merritt BC Canada Businesses

The Three Seven Eight Skateboard Company

Skateboarding in Merritt BC in the Nicola Valley

“Jay and Tobey would like to say thank you to their amazing customers, friends, and family who have made The Three Seven Eight Skateboard Company in Merritt BC what it is today.”

 

Three Seven Eight Skateboard

A Hidden Little Gem

When skateboard shopping you will find that The Three Seven Eight Skateboard Company in downtown Merritt, BC provides an array of skateboard merchandise, knowledge and experiences. The locally owned and operated skateboard shop services all of the Nicola Valley

Jay the owner of Three Seven Eight

Falling in love at a young age

As with most kids, Jay got hooked on skateboarding when his older brother, Dave, introduced him to the sport. Jay loves the creativity involved with skateboarding.  Both in the actual physical activity side of the sport, as well as, the product art work side of things.

When dreams become reality

For as long as Jay could remember he wanted to have a skateboard company or own a skateboard shop. He knew when the construction started on the Merritt skate park, it was now or never. That’s when Jay and his wife, Tobey,  opened up their shop in the Spring of 2005. They will be celebrating 15 years, coming up, in the Spring of 2020.

Nicely done Jay and Tobey!

Not just boards sold but so much more

The Three Seven Eight Skateboard Company offers the top brand boards in the skateboard industry and focus mostly on regular street skateboards, although they do a little bit of business in snowboards.and longboards.

The Three Seven Eight Skateboard Company in Merritt BC Merchandise

In addition to a variety of boards, the shop also sells apparel, footwear, sunglasses, hats, backpacks, and accessories. Their in-house line of “378” apparel and skateboards is always a great seller. The customers love supporting a small business these days, and their 378 line creates a sense of community and family. The amazing customers and friends are the reason that Jay and Tobey can continue to keep their doors open.

The Future is looking bright for 378!

Jay and Tobey’s future plans for the shop is to continue to make their shop the best they can. Staying true to what they have been doing.  Continuing to offer the best brands in the skateboard industry and also expanding on their own 378 line.  Check out their Facebook page. An online store possibly down the road but they’re still on the fence right now.

Skateboarding in Merritt BC

When I asked  the question of the best places to skateboard in Merritt, Jay’s response was that it was a tricky question…the BEST place to skateboard in Merritt would have to be the skateboard park.

However, the FUNNEST place to go skateboarding is anywhere in the streets where there are unique obstacles. Skateboarding has always been and always will be the best in the streets.

Heartfelt Thank You’s all around

In conclusion, Jay and Tobey would like to say thank you to their amazing customers, friends, and family who have made The Three Seven Eight Skateboard Company in Merritt BC what it is today. They’d also like to thank anyone who prefers to buy from a small business when they can, it truly makes a difference in a community. Lastly thank you to Experience Nicola Valley for asking us for this blog article.

Contact Info

The Three Seven Eight Skateboard Company
2149 Quilchena Avenue
Merritt, British Columbia
Call (250) 378-8179

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The Three Seven Eight Skateboard Company in Merritt BC

Skateboarding in Merritt BC in the Nicola Valley

A Nicola Valley Perspective on Youth Entrepreneurship

When we are young, we feel we can conquer the world. 

Not that long ago I was part of this vigorous demographic. Time flies eh! When we are young, we feel we can conquer the world but it’s not until we struggle accomplishing our own goals that we realize growing up may not be as easy as we thought. Let’s invest in our Youth (Youth Entrepreneurship). Give our Youth the opportunity to remember us because of the positive impact we had in their lives.

Entrepreneurship

From left to right: Carlos Olguin, Nathan Olguin, Alexander Olguin and Daniel Olguin

One morning I asked my 11 year old son what entrepreneurship meant to him?

We have different opinions for everything. Many times it depends where you are coming from and how life has treated you.  Entrepreneurship is no different; it might mean something different for each one of us. As an example, one morning I asked my 11 year old son what entrepreneurship meant to him? His answer was, “I know what the word means, but I keep forgetting. Entrepreneurship I think means like I heard it in the TV show Shark Tank. It was like learning to start a business and making your business. Kind of what you do at Community Futures helping people grow businesses”. 

If you had $50.00 dollars to start a business what kind of business would you start?

I was not expecting this answer so I had to ask a second question to my son. So Nathan, if you had $50.00 dollars to start a business, what kind of business would you start? This was his answer. “With $50.00 dollars I could start a lemonade stand and I could start selling lemonade. I would probably locate my lemonade stand in a populated area on a really hot day when people are rushing with their kids willing to pay 25 or 50 cents for an ice cold lemonade”. If we think a little bit about his answer, he not only thought about his target market, he also thought about the ideal location with the right foot traffic under the right weather condition to succeed in his business. Way to go Nathan!

What kind of programs and services are we offering to our Youth in our Community?

What are we doing to provide our Youth with the tools and resources they need to develop their entrepreneurial skills?

According to tradingeconomics.com “Youth Unemployment Rate in Canada remained unchanged at 11.10 percent in May from 11.10 percent in April of 2018. Youth Unemployment Rate in Canada averaged 14.04 percent from 1976 until 2018, reaching an all time high of 20.70 percent in October of 1982 and a record low of 10.30 percent in September of 2017”.

The option to invest in our Youth is no longer a choice but an essential need.

Given the high rates of Youth Unemployment in Canada, the option to invest in our Youth is no longer a choice but an essential need.  They are our future business owners that will represent the back bone of our local economy.

As mentioned by Will George, manager of Economic Development and Tourism for the City of Merritt “As a community we need to be open and eager to help assist Youth discover what entrepreneurship is all about. Starting a business is not just for adults but for anyone who has passion of starting their own business. Commencing at a young age helps Youth think about other opportunities besides just working at their typical jobs. Starting a business is not for everyone, but everyone should have an opportunity and resources available to them to make up their own mind on the matter.”

Entrepreneurship

Mark Nendick (PFN Coaching), Sarah Forsberg (Capital Cake Company), Travis Fehr (Breathe Bikes), Ashley Dearden (Sinfully Sugar’d), Preston Customs (Darren Preston).

Job creation is the opportunity to create local jobs for local people.

Part of my job at Community Futures is to help entrepreneurs start their own small businesses. Throughout the last eight years, I have helped numerous people start their own business. It is gratifying to see my clients succeed while running their own businesses, but I have also seen them struggling or breaking even especially for the first few months in business. 

Job creation is an important component within our community. It’s the opportunity to create local jobs for local people. There are some awesome programs that help create summer student positions such as the Summer Student Program. This program provides wage subsidies to employers to create employment for secondary and post-secondary students. I am all in favor of job creation, but I think we also need to incubate our local entrepreneurial talent.

Entrepreneurship

Merritt Youth Entrepreneurship Program 2018. From left to right: Manuel Olguin, Bryan Chavez, Sajjin Lali, Amrit Samra, Kara Wright, Julia Smith & Jacob Schultz.

Five young minds embracing lawn care, photography, web designing, and retail.

With this in mind, Community Futures Nicola Valley in partnership with the City of Merritt and the School District 58 this year launched the Merritt Youth Entrepreneurship Program.

This Youth Entrepreneurship initiative was offered to all Nicola Valley students in grades 8-12 who were looking for some extra cash this summer. This program not only provides up to $200.00 start-up funding but also provides business resources to support our students in their entrepreneurial path. 

 These five young minds will have the opportunity to run their summer business for the months of July and August. Four different industry sectors will be represented by these five entrepreneurs: lawn care, photography, web designing, and retail. These students will also have the opportunity to showcase their businesses at the next Provincial Community Futures Conference on September 13-15, 2018 here in Merritt, B.C.

Entrepreneurship

Photo courtesy of Junior Achievement

Junior Achievement has several programs such as Dream Big.

Junior Achievement has been working actively in our Community for the past years. They have several programs that include: A Business of Our Own, More Than Money, Dollars with Sense, Be Entrepreneurial, and Dream Big amongst other programs.

In 2016 I started working closely with Kara Wright the Program Coordinator for Junior Achievement office in Kamloops. We successfully delivered the “Be Entrepreneurial Program” to grade 9-12 students at Merritt Secondary School. While working on the Merritt Youth Entrepreneurship Program, Kara and I successfully delivered the business model canvas. This business model canvas was delivered to five successful students enrolled in the program. For those of you who may not know, a “business model canvas” is a business model all on one page. 

4-H Club in Canada.

A few years back, I remember reading about the 4-H Club in Canada. It’s great to know that this club is finally back in Merritt. In the near future, I will be blogging about the 4-H Club in the Nicola Valley. Stay tuned!

The lack of initiatives to support the Youth in my home-town discouraged me from starting my own business.

For those who do not know me, I grew up in a small town close to Mexico City. Thinking back in time, I wish I had such programs as all those mentioned in this blog. I’ve always had an entrepreneurial mindset, but lack of initiatives to support Youth in my home-town discouraged me from starting my own business. I am glad my children are raised in Canada where I can let them explore their entrepreneurial skills by shoveling snow or cutting the grass in my neighborhood without being concerned about their own safety.

We just might figure out a way to make the world a better place.

Entrepreneurship may be kids selling candies or home-made popcorn to their classmates at school, or having a lemonade stand on a sunny day. It’s Youth with the courage, creativity and drive to face the potential setbacks along the way of their entrepreneurial path. 

By supporting and recognizing what our local Youth Entrepreneurs are bringing to the table, we just might figure out a way to make the world a better place.

Supporting our Youth! What a great legacy to leave behind us. 

MOR