I used to think that business was business; that despite circumstances or environmental factors, there were universal principles that could be applied across the board.
But, after becoming a sole proprietor, as well as supporting local businesses in Prince George through my former work with the Chamber of Commerce, I feel differently about the universality of business now.
There are two conditions, in particular, that affect how I do business differently than other businesses.
The first is geography. Doing business in the North Central part of BC is not the same as doing business in other regions. We have access to project work in this region, connected to natural resource-based industries, that differs in scale and quantity from other regions of BC and Canada. As entrepreneurs, we often work in rural or remote areas separated by wide distances, which make project collaboration and client relationship-building more challenging.
In addition to geographic differences, being a woman in business also produces a unique set of challenges, expectations, and approaches to work that is somewhat affected by my gender. Balancing work and life; accessing capital; and developing strategic alliances and relationships are examples of areas that, broadly speaking, women approach a bit differently than men.
With these differences in mind, I was delighted to hear that a customized 'E-Series North' program was coming to Prince George and the region on Wednesday, Oct. 15.
The E-Series North program has been launched by the Forum for Women Entrepreneurs (FWE). It's a one-day program meant to educate, empower and inspire women and entrepreneurship in Northern BC. The program offers two full-day workshops targeting women interested in starting a business (E-Series Starter) and women who are currently running a business (E-Series Pro).
Fashioned off its 13-year long program E-Series, this program will focus on core topics that are essential for any woman in business, such as strategy, business plans, marketing, raising capital, and more. Participants will have a chance to connect with like-minded women, share challenges, meet business leaders and experts, and learn about a wealth of additional resources to support them.
The program cost is $75 and fortunately a limited number of grants are available for women from remote areas of northern BC to cover $1,000 in travel and accommodation costs. And, whether you're in Terrace or Tofino, Prince Rupert or Penticton, all women across the province are invited to watch the program via Live Streaming. This is free to all women, which makes the transfer of knowledge accessible to more aspiring or current entrepreneurs.
Applications are open for the program (in person or live streaming) for only one more week (until August 29). Be sure to check this program out by visiting www.fwe.ca/programs/e-series-north or calling FWE directly in Vancouver at: 604-682-8115.
I'll be there in person on October 15th and I hope you'll join me. Until next week, stay in the black and keep coming back.
