Business owners and entrepreneurs in Cobourg can tap into tools and resources this fall aimed at helping them and their companies succeed.
The Town of Cobourg’s economic development department and Venture13 Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre have unveiled a lineup of programs, seminars and workshops, which kick off with the first session on Wednesday, September 3 at Venture13 in Cobourg.
According to a media release, the series will benefit aspiring entrepreneurs, business professionals, and anyone seeking to elevate their business by equipping them with the tools they need to succeed in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape.
Daniel Van Kampen, Cobourg’s manager of economic development, shared his thoughts on the series of offerings for the business community.
“This fall’s programming features a range of sessions designed to provide existing businesses with practical resources and tools to strengthen resiliency, including the Protect Yourself Series, Funding Forum, and Business Accelerate Series,” Van Kampen told kawarthaNOW.
“These initiatives directly align with the town’s economic development strategy, approved by council in 2023, which emphasizes key priorities such as supporting downtown vitality, strengthening existing businesses, workforce development, investment readiness, and fostering entrepreneurship and innovation. All our programming is built around advancing these priorities.”
He said the department is also excited to present two “fireside chats” this season.
“These discussions will provide valuable insights and encourage meaningful dialogue within the business community,” Van Kampen added.
Below is the rundown by date of the various events, all of which take place at Venture13 at 739 D’Arcy Street in Cobourg.
Protect Yourself Series – Intellectual Property
Wednesday, September 3, noon to 1:30 p.m.
The Protect Yourself Series addresses common operating and legal issues, equipping participants with the knowledge to navigate these complexities and protect their business interests. Presented by Smart + Biggar principal Tony Orsi, the Intellectual Property session is designed to empower creators, entrepreneurs, and innovators by exploring explore how to identify, protect, and leverage IP assets, from trademarks and patents to copyrights and trade secrets.
Business Accelerate Series – Sales Funnel Management
Wednesday, September 10, noon to 1:30 p.m.
Presented by local digital media strategist Erin Law of the Story Unlocked, Sales Funnel Management will dive deep into the art of creating a tailored sales funnel that resonates with local customers. From attracting new leads to converting them into repeat buyers, this session will provide attendees with practical tools and strategies to boost their sales and grow their local business.
Protect Yourself Series – Cybersecurity
Wednesday, October 1, noon to 1:30 p.m.
The Protect Yourself Series addresses common operating and legal issues, equipping participants with the knowledge to navigate these complexities and protect their business interests. Presented by Iceberg Cyber founder and CEO Michael Bakaic, the Cybersecurity session will lay out the practical steps people can take to secure their digital life, including having strong passwords, keeping computers up to date, and being savvy about phishing emails.
Cobourg Growth and Development Symposium
Thursday, October 2, 8:30 to 11 a.m.
The annual growth and development symposium will provide a development update over the past year and a discussion among development professionals about leading urban growth and development trends.
Fireside Chat Series – AI in the Hospitality Industry
Thursday, October 2, 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Open to the public, the Fireside Chat Series is focused on local business and community development, providing an intimate and welcoming space for learning, discussion, and networking, with food and drinks provided. AI in the Hospitality Industry will explore how artificial intelligence is shaping the dining and service industries and how local businesses are adapting to these changes.
STEM Education Program – PA Day STEM Camp
Friday, October 24, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m
Youth aged 11 to 14 will dive into the world of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) through fun and engaging activities designed to spark curiosity and creativity, including coding challenges, robotics, engineering experiments, and interactive science demos.
Fireside Chat Series – The Spirit of Small Businesses
Thursday, November 6, 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Open to the public, the Fireside Chat Series is focused on local business and community development, providing an intimate and welcoming space for learning, discussion, and networking, with food and drinks provided. The Spirit of Small Businesses session will highlight the important role that small businesses, independent artisans, and home-based entrepreneurs play during the holiday season, with attendees invited to share stories, ideas, and inspiration and to connect with others who care about keeping the spirit of local alive during the busiest time of year.
Funding Forum: Rural Opportunities – Round 3
Thursday, November 13, 9 to 10:30 a.m.
Presented in partnership with the Northumberland Manufacturers Association, this funding forum features expert panellists Laurie Caouette, economic and business advisor at the Ministry of Rural Affairs, and Randy Lawrence, senior relationship manager at Farm Credit Canada, who will share insights on securing business funding, with a focus on crafting compelling funding applications.
Business Accelerate Series – Digital Storytelling
Wednesday, December 3, noon to 1:30 p.m
Presented by local digital media strategist Erin Law of the Story Unlocked, this interactive workshop will break down the power of digital storytelling and how local businesses can use it to captivate, convert, and retain customers. Attendees will learn how to craft a compelling brand story, apply it across their website and social media channels, and use proven storytelling techniques to boost engagement and sales.
In addition to the above sessions, The Business Blend is a monthly discussion where small business owners and entrepreneurs can share their experiences and learn from others in a structured format. Sessions take place Thursday mornings from 9 to 10 a.m. on September 4, October 9, November 6, and December 4.
For more information on upcoming events and to register, visit https://linktr.ee/venture13.
