Future-Proof Your Business at the 2024 Small Business Week Bridges to Better Business Workshop

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Cornwall, Ontario – Mark your calendars! The Cornwall SDG Business Enterprise Centre and the Cornwall & Area Chamber of Commerce are excited to present the highly anticipated Bridges to Better Business event, a cornerstone of Small Business Week (October 20-26). This year’s edition will take place on Tuesday, October 23rd, from 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM at the Cornwall Golf and Country Club.

Supporting Local Businesses

Small Business Week is an important time to highlight the vital role that small businesses play in our community. Small businesses are essential to our local economy, creating jobs, driving innovation, and contributing to the overall vibrancy of Cornwall, SDG Counties and Akwesasne. This year, the Bridges to Better Business workshop will provide a unique opportunity for small business owners to network with their peers and gain valuable insights from industry experts. Participants will learn essential strategies to stay competitive, reach new customers, and build resilience in an ever-changing market by focusing on marketing and future-proofing their businesses.

“We are thrilled to celebrate Small Business Week and partner with the Cornwall SDG Business Enterprise Centre for the Bridges to Better Business event,  small businesses are the backbone of our community, and this event provides a valuable platform for entrepreneurs and business owners to connect, learn, and grow. We encourage everyone to participate and take advantage of the diverse range of activities and resources available. Together, we can support and strengthen our local business community,” said Angela Bero, General Manager of the Cornwall & Area Chamber of Commerce.

Workshop Speakers:

Jennifer Layman: A speaker, author, and marketing advisor
Think Like a Pro: Use a Pro Golf Strategy to Drive Marketing Results for Your Business.

Jennifer Layman is a speaker, author, and small business marketing advisor who launched her business after a career in professional golf. When pro golfers compete in a tournament, they don’t just show up on the first day and play. They’ve studied the course and built a strategy for their strengths to use in competition. The same applies to business. In her talk, “Think Like a Pro: Use a pro golf strategy to drive marketing results for your business” Jennifer will use this unique insight to illustrate how to elevate your business’s competitiveness, uncover new opportunities, and build the business you know is there.

John Wright: Owner of Lost Villages Brewery
Crafting Loyalty: Building a Brand Through Authentic Connections

John Wright is one of three owners of Lost Villages Brewery in Long Sault, Ontario. With a focus on community and connection, John and his team have built a brand that goes beyond the beer itself. By leveraging social media and embracing a more personal approach, they have created a loyal customer base that feels connected to the brewery’s story. In his talk, “Crafting Loyalty: Building a Brand Through Authentic Connections,” John will share practical strategies and insights from his journey in building a brand that resonates with people on a deeper level.

Keynote Speaker: Pierre Cléroux, BDC’s Chief Economist
Preparing for the Future: Outlook for small business heading into 2025

BDC’s Chief Economist, Pierre Cléroux, will provide an insightful and dynamic session and share four key trends that will shape your business over the next five years—and the strategies you’ll need to navigate them successfully. Learn how to: Discover how to tackle rising costs, evolving customer needs, labour shortages, and technological disruptions. Receive practical tips and tools to enhance your efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness. Learn strategies to thrive in a dynamic business environment. Benefit from the insights and best practices shared by BDC’s Chief Economist.

“We’re proud to partner with the Chamber again this year to offer Bridges to Better Business,” says Shauna Baggs, Cornwall SDG Business Enterprise Centre. “This event provides valuable networking and business development opportunities for local entrepreneurs. Register early to secure your spot!”

Registration

The Bridges to Better Business event is open to all business owners, entrepreneurs, and individuals interested in starting their own businesses. Tickets are $30 and include speakers, breakfast, snacks, buffet lunch, and a marketing book (Forward Thinking For Your Business: It’s not who you know in business, it’s who knows you).

To register, please visit Bridges to Better Business Workshop

Event Details

Location: Cornwall Golf & Country Club, 6740 Sutherland Ave, Cornwall, ON K6H 7J3

8:15 am      Doors Open (Continental Breakfast Served)
8:50 am      Welcome
9:00 am      Jennifer Layman: Think Like a Pro: Use a Pro Golf Strategy to Drive Marketing Results for Your Business
10:30 am    John Wright: Crafting Loyalty: Building a Brand Through Authentic Connections
11:40 am    Buffet Lunch
12:30 pm    Keynote speaker: Pierre Cléroux, BDC’s Chief Economist Preparing for the Future: Outlook for small business heading into 2025
1:45 pm      Wrap Up

About Cornwall Business Enterprise Centre

The Cornwall Business Enterprise Centre is a valuable resource for entrepreneurs and small business owners in Cornwall and the surrounding area. They provide support, guidance, and resources to help businesses start, grow, and succeed.

About Cornwall Chamber of Commerce

The Cornwall Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic organization dedicated to promoting and supporting the local business community in Cornwall. They provide networking opportunities, advocacy, and resources to help businesses thrive.

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