With an upcoming conference, free consultations, and funding programs, the Business & Entrepreneurship Centre Northumberland (BECN) is aiming this fall to arm local businesses with the tools they need to succeed.
The BECN is a service delivered by Northumberland County in partnership with the Province of Ontario. The BECN offers micro grants, free consultations, training, information and resources, and workshops and seminars for community members thinking of starting or expanding a small business in the county.
On the heels of a successful September workshop with internationally recognized keynote speaker Daniel Lewis, co-founder of the award-winning loose-leaf tea company T by Daniel, and the “She Owns It” conference around the corner, BECN business development coordinator Kailyn Coupland spoke to kawarthaNOW about the overall role of the organization in Northumberland County.
“(We) want to remind the community that the BECN is the single door to entrepreneurship support in our region,” Coupland said.
“Whether you’re exploring entrepreneurship for the first time, launching a start-up, or running an established business, our team is here with the tools, resources, and one-on-one support to help you succeed. From business planning and training programs to mentoring and workshops like She Owns It, BECN is committed to walking alongside entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey.”
Meanwhile, the BECN invites women to join together on Thursday, November 6 at the Best Western Plus Cobourg Inn & Convention Centre for the third annual “She Owns It” entrepreneurship conference. Already almost sold out, the conference features inspiring speakers, real stories and strategies from local women in business, and hands-on workshops.
Along with special events like She Owns It, the BECN strives to provide the necessary support whether entrepreneurs are launching a new idea or expanding an existing venture, including by offering free one-on-one consultations tailored to a person’s individual business goals.
Through consultations, the BECN can help clarify an entrepreneur’s business plan, offer guidance on navigating permits, regulations, and funding opportunities, and provide strategies to improve the marketing, operations, and financial management of business ownership.
“Every business journey comes with challenges, but you don’t have to face them on your own. Our expert advisors are here to offer guidance, support, and practical solutions designed to match your current stage and future vision,” the BECN stated.
The BECN is also gearing up for the next instalment of its Starter Company Growth program, designed for entrepreneurs in Northumberland County who have been operating for six months or more.
Participants will get access to expert training, business development support and mentorship, plus eligible approved applicants can receive a micro-grant of up to $3,500. Mandatory training is required to qualify for grant funding. All interested entrepreneurs are welcome to participate in the training, regardless of grant eligibility.
Applications for the program will open in mid-October. For more information, visit becn.ca/programs/starter-company-program/.
