Fourteen student entrepreneurs enrolled in Conestoga’s Small Business Ventures graduate certificate program got a hand up in launching their new enterprises this week, thanks to the support of program partner and sponsor RBC.
Each of the students was presented with a $1,000 RBC Venture Award in recognition of their successful completion of the first phase of the year-long program, which is designed to provide young entrepreneurs with the knowledge and skills required to start up and manage a successful business.
Steve Cabral, Regional Sales Manager for RBC, presented the awards to the students. Cabral, who is also an alumnus of Conestoga’s Law and Security Administration program, explained that the Venture Awards are a reflection of RBC’s commitment to provide financial support to small businesses across the community, “whether that’s to help new businesses get off the ground, or to help established businesses reach the next stage of growth.”
Small businesses are often described as the backbone of Canada’s economy. According to Statistics Canada, approximately 98 per cent of businesses in Canada are small enterprises with fewer than 100 employees.
Conestoga’s Small Business Ventures program is designed for students who want to turn their ideas and expertise into successful new business enterprises. The program provides participants with access to experienced mentors and business advisors who can help new entrepreneurs navigate the financial, legal and marketing aspects of starting a business.
Incubator space is available throughout the program and for up to six months after graduation. The program is open to diploma or degree graduates from an accredited college or university, as well as to individuals who have at least two years of experience in a business setting.
The next session of the Small Business Venture program begins in September 2015. For more information, visit www.conestogac.on.ca/fulltime/1310.jsp