Telephone: (613) 623-4680
Fax: (613) 623-2486
Email: arnprior@getontrac.ca
Website

Hours: 8:30a.m. to 4:00p.m, Monday to Friday.

Rural Outreach Employment Services

Tyerman & Daughters Inc.
Eganville Centre

Box 431
232A Bridge Street
Eganville, ON
K0J 1T0

Telephone: (613) 628-1700
Fax: (613) 628-3538
Toll Free : 1-800-462-0208
Email: maggie@tyerman.com
Website

Hours: 8:30-4:00pm Monday to Friday, closed 12:00 to 1:00.

Barry’s Bay Centre
19536 Opeongo Line
Barry’s Bay, ON

Telephone: (613)756-8079
Fax: (613)756-9207

Hours: 8:30-4:00pm Monday to Friday, closed 12:00 to 1:00.

Employment Networks

231 Argyle Street South
Renfrew, Ontario K7V 4A2

Telephone: (613) 432-3424
Fax: (613) 432-7304
Email: contactus@employmentnetworks.ca
Website

Hours: 8:30-4:30 Monday to Friday, closed 12:00 to 1:00.

 

Petawawa Military Family Resource Centre

3025 Petawawa Boulevard
Unit D, Petawawa Market Mall
Petawawa, ON
K8H 1X9

Telephone: (613) 687-1717
Fax: (613) 687-2319
Email: easpmfrc@bellnet.ca
Website

Hours: 8:00a.m to 4:00p.m, Monday through Friday

Algonquin College Community Employment Services

141 Lake Street, 

Downtown Pembroke.
Telephone: 613-735-4308 
Website

       The Eastern Ontario Development Program (EODP) is a Government of Canada initiative which promotes economic development in eastern Ontario, leading to a diversified and competitive regional economy with successful businesses and prosperous communities. It has been a catalyst in many communities by encouraging new projects and community plans, mobilizing community stakeholders and helping to form partnerships.

     The program provides resources to the 15 Community Futures Development Corporations in Eastern Ontario, including Renfrew County, who in turn solicit applications from eligible applicants.


These eligible applicants include:

• Non-profit organizations including municipalities and municipal organizations, corporations and community economic development organizations
• Commercial enterprises including individuals, corporations, partnerships, cooperatives or trusts
• Aboriginal & francophone organizations

Projects in the following priority areas will be considered:

• Business Development, which supports projects that will lead to the growth of new and existing businesses within rural eastern Ontario communities. This includes initiatives in areas such as skills development, youth attraction, innovation and the adoption of information and communications technologies
• Community Innovation, which enables community-led economic development that enhances and diversifies local economies. This includes projects identified within existing community plans that build on the communities' competitive economic advantages to establish or strengthen key economic sectors and/or retain and expand existing businesses
• Collaborative projects, which involve and benefit multiple communities

     The benefits of the EODP on rural Eastern Ontario communities are widespread. Projects are selected through a local decision-making process to complement the needs and priorities identified by the community, and on their potential to stimulate local economic development and create jobs. EODP encourages a competitive and diversified regional economy and contributes to the successful development of business and job opportunities, and sustainable, self-reliant communities.

     EODP achieves its goals by investing in a wide range of grassroots community projects and by supporting local companies. The Renfrew County CFDC, through the EODP, has invested to date, with leveraged funding, over $7.5 million into the local economy since it's inception in 2004.

For more information on how to apply for funding, please read the Eastern Ontario guidelines and application.

Business Development	Community Innovation
Guidelines (pdf)	Guidelines (pdf)
Application (.doc)	Application (.doc)

To facilitate the transition to self employment, the OSEB program provides income support, training and consultation to qualified EI recipients who have a viable business idea.

What is OSEB?

OSEB is a tool to help individuals create jobs for themselves through self-employment by providing them with various types of support during the start-up period. Assistance can include coaching, on going technical advice and financial support.

Coaching will be tailored to meet individual needs and can include subjects such as business plan development, accounting, marketing and government guidelines, among others.

Applicants are given the opportunity to sign up for an 8 week course called the Enterprising Edge Business Development course. This course provides an intensive orientation in business planning and management.

Participants of the OSEB Program are also invited to attend a variety of business related seminars held throughout Renfrew County and have access to an online monthly business newsletter.

What financing is available?

Individuals participating in the OSEB program receive agreed-upon financial assistance in the form of continued or extended Employment Insurance Benefits (EI).  Income support is provided for a specified number of weeks as stipulated by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities (MTCU).

Participants are required to provide monthly activity and financial reports on the status of their business throughout the period of income support.

The Ontario Self Employment Benefit Program is funded by the Government of Ontario.

To facilitate the transition to self employment, the OSEB program provides income support, training and consultation to qualified EI recipients who have a viable business idea.

Kristina Misener
Small Business Consultant
613-735-3951-ext 224
kmisener@bellnet.ca
 

The Ontario Self-Employment Benefit (OSEB) program provides entrepreneurial skills development support to approved participants to help them develop and implement their business plan and become self-employed. OSEB allows participants to concentrate on building a sustainable business by providing them with financial assistance while they receive business advice and support.

The Application Process

1. Attend an Orientation meeting with the OSEB Coordinator
2. Complete and return the application form within 5 business days of meeting
3. Review of application by Consultant; Application sent to TCU; TCU Contacts client
4. Start the Enterprising Edge Business Development Course (6 week learning program)
5. Business plan presented to Consultant; recommendation sent to TCU
6. Final approval from TCU 

PARTICIPANT ELIGIBILITY GUIDELINES

Canadian citizens or permanent residents legally entitled to work in Canada

Meet the definition of an insured individual ( EI Eligible).

An individual who has completed a business plan with the assistance of outside expertise prior to seeking support under OSEB, and who does not require assistance during the business plan development phase, is not eligible.

An individual who begins working on his/her business prior to seeking approval from the Ministry for OSEB is not eligible for the program

As well, an individual who has previously completed within the last 24 months or is currently enrolled in a self-employment program (i.e. provincial or other) is not eligible for OSEB.

RESTRICTIONS

In order to participate in OSEB, each applicant must:

• Meet eligibility requirements (as outlined above)
• Attend an orientation session provided by an OSEB Coordinator and apply for the OSEB
• Complete a self assessment exercise on risks/opportunities of self-employment and personal suitability
• Submit a proposed Business Concept for review by an OSEB Coordinator
• Provide evidence of a personal investment. The personal investment must be equal to a minimum of 25% of the total amount of financial support for basic living allowance that would be provided to the individual if approved for program participation
• Complete the applicant pre-screening questionnaire on environmental issues to determine if environmental assessment (ea) is required
• Complete an MTCU OSEB application
• Submit the application package to the OSEB Coordinator
• Must continue to be capable of and available for work and continue to complete and submit claimant reports as required if the individual is an active EI claimant

BUSINESS ELIGIBILITY GUIDELINES

The proposed business activity must be full-time. This means that the approved participant must devote at least 35 hours per week to developing and implementing the business plan.

The proposed business may be:

a new business or an existing business in which the individual had no prior ownership; and a business that is suitable for public funding in the opinion of the Ministry.

seasonal in nature (an individual must devote all efforts full-time to the development and implementation of the business plan for the duration of the OSEB agreement. In some cases, the individual may be engaged in more than one full-time seasonal activity within the agreement timeframe);

home-based;

a hobby (i.e. a leisure activity undertaken for pleasure where the primary intention is not to generate income) converted into a business.

INELIGIBLE BUSINESS ACTIVITY

The following are ineligible business activities under OSEB:

Any activity that involves, in the opinion of the Ministry;

• sexual exploitation; illegal activity ; the production of materials that promote hate, discrimination or illegal activity; otherwise promoting hate, discrimination or illegal activity ; proselytizing of a particular religious or political opinion
• business that is partially or entirely based on commission and dependent on a parent company (e.g. real estate agents, insurance brokers, Mary Kay)
• franchise
• home-based daycare
• part-time business
• business the applicant currently owns and operates
• business the applicant previously owned
• business owned previously by the applicant’s spouse, parent or child where the individual has had significant involvement in the management/decision-making process
• not for profit organization (i.e. those that do not qualify as a business under the CRA regulations)

Meet with an Employment Assistance Service Provider in your area.

The Small Business Consultant (OSEB Coordinator) will review the application form to determine if the business concept complies with the SEB program guidelines, and has the potential to provide long term employment for client.

The Small Business Consultant will then contact the applicant to advise whether or not self employment is a viable option to pursue.

A business plan is a summary of a business idea. It explains the products and services, customers, competitors, management, marketing plan, etc.

The cash flow statement is a projection of the cash receipts and cash disbursements for each month during the first year of business. A sample cash flow statement can be downloaded HERE. The staff at RCCFDC can coach you through the business plan and everyone has access to our business library located in our office. A list of online resources is available by choosing Resources and Links under Business Development Services.

 Contact the OSEB Coordinator to present your business plan.

Social Media Training

This free Social Media Training Program is offered specifically for notprofit organizations operating within Renfrew County.

Benefit from hands-on, interactive instruction and ongoing support for your social media campaigns.

Get your accounts and pages working for you!
Computers and internet access are provided to all who have reserved a seat in advance.

Upcoming Workshops;

Thursday, May 30, 2013; 1:00pm to 3:30pm
Introduction to Facebook
2 International Drive, Pemrboke ON

This introduction to facebook will bring you hands-on, interactive instruction and ongoing support for your social media campaigns.  Learn how to effectively set up and run a Facebook business page.

Social Media gives companies an online presence and a method of communication with their customers. Come learn more about Facebook and how you can be using it to your advantage.

Pre-registration is required due to limited seating.

For more information please contact Kelley Lemenchick at klemenchick@bellnet.ca or phone 613.735. 3951 ext. 226.

Time Management Seminar

Ontario Self-Employment Benefit Program July Orientation Seminar
 

The Renfrew Area Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Renfrew County Community Futures Development Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of an exciting event The Wolves’ Den, which will be held May 17th, 2013 at the Historic O’Brien Theatre.

Using the format of the popular CBC television program, "The Dragon's Den", we have planned an evening that will create an opportunity to showcase creativity, ingenuity, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit in Renfrew County. This event will encourage local entrepreneurs to come and make a pitch for a chance to win the opportunity to develop their idea into a meaningful and potentially lucrative business.

This is your chance to PITCH your very own business idea, with the chance to WIN START-UP BUSINESS SUPPORT from real professionals!

Get CREATIVE, INNOVATIVE, INGENIOUS, and let your ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT SHINE.
It all starts by printing, scanning, e-mailing or faxing your application due by April 26th, 2013!

To receive up-to-date information on the Wolves' Den, click here to go to the official facebook page.

GoVenture for the Youth Entrepreneurship Program

The Youth Entrepreneurship Program (YEP) is gearing up for the 2012-2013 school year!

This year we are very excited to expand our program by adding a new in-school workshop, GoVenture. GoVenture is a fun and interactive learning tool that transforms learning into an engaging and fascinating process that will captivate student’s attention. This program enables students to learn by doing, in a highly visual and realistic way. Students can learn how to create and run a business that is fast and effective. The program is sure to inspire learners with highly realistic, effective, and fun learning experiences.

This new workshop is conducted by the Youth Entrepreneurship Coordinator and laptop computers will be provided.

For more information on the GoVenture workshops, click here.

 Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund (CIIF)

On July 5, Minister Goodyear announced the launch of the new Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund (CIIF) in Ontario. The Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) has been allocated $49.6 million over two years to deliver the Fund in Ontario.

The CIIF will support the rehabilitation and improvement, including expansion, of existing community infrastructure facilities. Funding assistance provided by the CIIF is intended to improve the quality of community facilities and provide economic benefits, including support for job creation, in communities across Canada. The program will be delivered by the regional development agencies across Canada.

To view the small business success newsletters, please click on the link corresponding to the desired month and year.

*Please note: The Small Business Success Newsletters are now being named the Leading Edge

This free Social Media Training Program is offered specifically for notprofit organizations operating within Renfrew County.

Thursday, May 23, 2013; 1:00pm to 3:30pm
Introduction to Facebook
2 International Drive, Pemrboke ON

This introduction to facebook will bring you hands-on, interactive instruction and ongoing support for your social media campaigns.  Learn how to effectively set up and run a Facebook business page.

Social Media gives companies an online presence and a method of communication with their customers. Come learn more about Facebook and how you can be using it to your advantage.

Pre-registration is required due to limited seating.

For more information please contact Kelley Lemenchick at klemenchick@bellnet.ca or phone 613.735. 3951 ext. 226.

Community Futures is a community based non-profit organization that is dedicated to creating opportunities for entrepreneurship and the pursuit of economic growth in Renfrew County.

We, along with 60 other Community Futures Development Corporation’s in rural Ontario receive operational funding from the Government of Canada through FedDev Ontario.

Community Futures Development Corporation serving Renfrew County is run by a board of local volunteers and professional staff, we take a grass roots approach to investing in local entrepreneurs and community initiatives.

The Wolves' Den

LIVE** May 17, 2013

This is your chance to PITCH your very own business idea, with the chance to WIN START-UP BUSINESS SUPPORT from real professionals!

Get CREATIVE, INNOVATIVE, INGENIOUS, and let your ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT SHINE!

It all starts by printing, scanning, e-mailing or faxing your APPLICATION by APRIL 26th!

Sign up today for our summer Youth Enterprise Camp!  

For more information and to register, please Click here

Contact Katie Burchart, Youth Entrepreneurship Coordinator:
613.735.3951 ext.230
kburchart@bellnet.ca

Business Loans

“The old media paradigm was PAY to play. Now you get back what you authentically put in. You’ve got to be willing to PLAY to play.”
-Alex Bogusky

Hands-On Workshops

Computers and Internet access provided!

Workshops are available on the many facets of Social Media. Whether you are already proficient and looking for tips on how to use Social Media with a greater effect for your business, or are completely new to the world of Social Media, there is something here for you.

For more information on upcoming workshops, click here.



Follow-Up Assistance

We come to you!
We know you cannot learn everything from just one workshop. Follow-up assistance is offered on site, as well as via telephone and email. All participants are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to better enable them to hit the ground running!

*It is important to note that no website creation or marketing services are being offered through this program. Businesses are encouraged to look into website design/creation/marketing companies to fulfill this function.

For more information on upcoming workshops or booking individual appointments, please contact

Kelley Lemenchick
Social Media Coordinator
613.735.3951 ext 226
klemenchick@bellnet.ca
 

Algonquin Bound Outfitters Ltd.:
• Customer Service Training 1
• Customer Service Training 2

Algonquin College in the Valley, Pembroke Campus:
• Co-op Works!
• ASAP – Algonquin College Strategic Academic Partnerships Program
• Algonquin College (Applied) Research Enterprise (ACRE) Project

Arnprior Fire Trucks Corp.:
• Development of Promotional and Marketing Materials to Facilitate Market Expansion

Barry's Bay & Area Physician Recruitment & Retention Committee:
• Physician Recruitment Strategies using Innovative Marketing & Social Media

Bishop Water Technologies Inc.:
• Marketing, Branding, Market & Revenue Development Strategy Planning through the use of consultant services

Bonnechere River Watershed Project:
• Renfrew County Stewardship Forum – (Fostering Adaptive Collaboration)

Calabogie & Area Business Association Inc.:
•“Festival of the Senses” marketing brochure

Centre scolaire catholique Jeanne-Lajoie, pavillon élémentaire :
• Célebration communautaire pour souligner le 25ième anniversaire du Centre scolaire catholique Jeanne-Lajoie, pavillon élémentaire

City of Pembroke:
• Downtown Revitalization

Community Futures Development Corporation serving Renfrew County:
• Renfrew County Small Business Social Media & Innovation Integration Program
• Partnering with RDÉE Ontario, Providing consulting and financial support to 11 businesses from Renfrew County to attend Centrallia 2012, a Global Business Forum
• Youth Entrepreneurship Program

Community Resource Centre, Killaloe Inc.:
• Community Outreach Skills Training

The Corporation of the County of Renfrew:
• TEDx Forestry/Recreation/Tourism Conference
• County of Renfrew Accessibility Outreach Program
• Biomaterials Innovative Value-Added Processing Workshop
• Ottawa Valley Wood Products Promotion

The Corporation of Greater Madawaska Township:
• Virtual Visitor Centres – Interactive Tourist Kiosks
• Greater Madawaska Township Building Energy Feasibility Study

The Corporation of Killaloe, Hagarty & Richards Township:
• Killaloe, Hagarty & Richards Township Public Library Project

Corporation of the Township of Brudenell, Lyndoch and Raglan:
• Youth Intern: Marketing, Promotion, Social Media Implementation & Economic Development

The Corporation of the Town of Deep River:
• Deep River Marina Renewal Projects

Deep River Science Academy:
• Summer Science Immersion Progam

Deslaurier Custom Cabinets Inc.:
• Training and Implementation of 20-20 CAD Software
• Youth Intern - Lean Apprentice
• Engineering Server Upgrade and System Stabilization

Dunn & Bay Holdings:
• Water Tower Lodge Services Expansion

Eastern Ontario Forest Group:
• Building Opportunities for Certified Forests and Businesses

Forward Thinking:
• Technological Enhancements for Ottawa Valley Business Website and Newsletter

Friends of the Champlain Trail Museum and Pioneer Village:
• Equipment Upgrade for Collection Management and Administrative Modernization

Kawartha Lakes CFDC (a Collaborative Project):
• Eastern Ontario Transportation Needs Analysis

KI Pembroke:
• Leadership & Team Building
• Root Cause Analysis/Problem Solving Training

Laurentian View Dairy Ltd.:
• Administrative Systems Software adoption

Lutherlyn Camp and Conference Centre:
• Marketing/Promotion of Lutherlyn Camp and Conference Centre

Mazinaw-Lanark Forest Inc. (a Collaborative Project with Frontenac CFDC):
• Forest Certification

Omàmiwinini Pimàdjwowin O/A The Algonquin Way Cultural Centre:
• Planning for Building a new, “Green” Cultural Education Centre at Pikwàkanagàn

Ottawa Valley Broomball Associations (a Collaborative Project with the Valley Heartland CFDC):
• Hosting the World Broomball Championship 2012

OVG Inc.:
• Staff training on new Computer Software
• Youth Intern, Drafting Position
• Youth Intern, Estimating Position
• Staff Skills Training – Lean Innovation

Pembroke & Area Airport Commission:
• Feasibility Study for Passenger Air Services at the Pembroke & Area Airport
• Securing Scheduled Passenger Service for the Pembroke Airport

Petawawa Heritage Society:
• Multilingual Website & QR Code Project

Petawawa Military Family Resource Centre:
• Acquisition and Implementation of an Automated Management System

Pillar5 Pharma Inc.:
• Skills Development

Prince Edward/Lenox & Addington CFDC (aCollaborative Project):
• Research in Rural Economic Development

Renfrew & Area Chamber of Commerce:
• The Wolves’ Den, a contest showcasing new business ideas

Renfrew County Catholic District School Board:
• OPTIONS 2012 – Skilled Trades Fair (10th Anniversary)

Renfrew County Stewardship Council:
• Stewardship Youth Intern

Scientific Technical Translation Inc. (STTI):
• Building a domestic market for a certain high efficiency, engineered, scalable and adaptable hydronic home heating system (Sil.ta) from North-eastern Europe

Shaw Woods Outdoor Education Centre:
• The Shaw Woods Outdoor Education Centre

SpeedPro Signs:
• Youth Intern

St. Francis Memorial Hospital Foundation:
• Communication Wall

Township of McNab Braeside:
• Red Pine Bay Upgrade

Valley Bio Limited:
• 2012 Valley Bio Business Plan for the development of Identity Preserved Hemp, Buckwheat and GF Oats through Ontario & Quebec
• Valley Bio Registered Seed Establishment Application

Watson Mechanical Ltd.:
• Mobile Advertising in the form of a truck wrap for WML
• Leadership Development Training Through Algonquin College

Xsite Enterprizes Inc.:
• Technical Training

For further information, please contact David Wybou at 613.735.3951, ext. 229 or by email: dvwybou@bellnet.ca.

**2013 Registration Form

 A once in a lifetime camp opportunity! 

Who can Participate?

• Youth aged 9 to 13 years old
  
  

When is Camp 2013?

• July 21-26 (French Language Camp)
  
• August 18-23 (English Language Camp)
  

Where is Camp Taking Place?

• Lutherlyn Camp, 909 Zadow Road, Golden Lake, ON, www.lutherlyncamp.ca

 What is the Cost?

• $299 per camper

About the Youth Enterprise Camp

• The Youth Enterprise Camp provides opportunities for kids from 9 to 13 years old to attend a week-long summer camp centered on entrepreneurship. Participants learn about what it takes to be an entrepreneur, write a business plan, find suppliers and financing, and how to market their products. Youth will meet successful entrepreneurs in the area, and finish off the week by running their own business for a day. The learning activities are complemented by a variety of physical and team-building activities to give the participants a fun and dynamic summer camp experience. Camps are offered in both English and French.

Camp 2011
Youth aged 9 to 14 enjoyed the facilities of host, Camp LOA in Limoges Ontario.  They enjoyed traditional camp activities and team building exercises. 

Camp 2012
Youth aged 9 to 13 enjoyed the facilities at this years host, Lutherlyn Camp in Golden Lake Ontario.  31 French campers along with 20 English campers participated in exciting entrepreneurship activities.  Campers took the knowledge they learnt throughout the week and applied their new skills to create and run their own businesses.  These businesses took the shape of many different products targeting a wide variety of markets, such as birdhouses & bookmarks, lanterns, candy kabobs, bracelets & headbands, juice stand, kindling, and many more.

To see more pictures from Camp 2012, please click on the photo below,

 Click here for more information about our School Workshops.

Mike Thompson
Business Development Officer
613.735.3951 ext 223
mt00103@bellnet.ca

 

Our school workshops provide students with the opportunity to participate in a wide range of free and unique workshops, available from grades 4 through 12 as well as at the post secondary level.

Our workshops encourage students to think creatively while having the occasion to explore entrepreneurship.

Workshops are conducted by our Youth Entrepeneurship Coordinator

    GoVenture's Lemonade Stand simulation is an easy-to-use program, suitable for grades 3 through 7, that introduces you to the experience of running your own lemonade stand business. It provides students with the opportunity to apply concepts in other subjects such as math, finance, career, or general life skills in a fun business setting.

    Lemonade Stand puts you in the role of a budding entrepreneur selling lemonade. You must determine the price of your lemonade, the recipe, and manage your inventory in order to maximize profits. It’s easy to use, visual, interactive, and fun! Gain practical experience so you have the confidence to explore starting and running your own business!

      GoVenture's Micro Business simulation is an easy-to-use program, for grades 7 through 12, that introduces you to the experience of running your own micro business. It offers the opportunity to apply concepts in other subjects such as math, finance, career, or general life skills in a fun business setting.

      GoVenture Micro Business puts you in the role of the owner of a mobile business cart, where you must decide what products to sell and where and when to sell them in order to maximize profits. It’s easy to use, visual, interactive, and exciting!  Manage all the key aspects of your own virtual business — price your products, buy inventory, advertise, review financial statements, hire employees, manage schedules, and more.  Choose from an ice cream cart, popcorn cart, hot dog cart, clothing cart, jewelry cart, and an electronics cart!

     Create a Logo plants the seed of entrepreneurship and leadership among students in Grades 4 to 6 in a fun and creative way.  Students are asked to identify a business opportunity which they believe could work in their community, region or anywhere else in Ontario.  Students will then write a paragraph depicting what their business is about and design a logo reflecting not only the name of their business, but the product or service their business will provide as well as a brief explaination towards the meaning behind their logo.  This program not only gets the creative juices flowing, but exposes youth to new career opportunities within their community and region.

     The Local Entrepreneur Hall of Fame program engages students from Grades 4 to 8 to explore and research the history of prominent local business people and businesses. Each student selects one of these entrepreneurs to present to their class in a creative and innovative format. Achievement Awards will be given to both the best student presentation and the enterprise/entrepreneur whose profile showcases a significant contribution to our local economy. This program helps students develop good investigative and public speaking skills, while entrepreneurs will benefit from free local publicity for their business.

     Market Your Thoughts is a competition to encourage intermediate level students in Grades 7 and 8 to creatively think about enterprising ventures and pursue entrepreneurial thinking and action. We are identifying, recognizing, rewarding and supporting the talent and initiatives of our enterprising young people. The competition involves students identifying a business opportunity that they believe could work in the province of Ontario and the writing of an essay describing the business concept. Students will have an opportunity to win prizes donated by local businesses and sponsors.

     Schmooze, Don’t Snooze consists of one-hour networking sessions which is held before business hours, after business hours or at noon-hour, once a month. These sessions are offered to both high school and post secondary students.  Successful entrepreneurs have all the right contacts and personal and social networks help people stay connected to the business community. These sessions will give young entrepreneurs the chance to meet and learn from successful business men and women in the community.

     The Business Plan Challenge is an exciting foray into the business world for secondary school students. It is a unique competition where students have the opportunity to create their own business plan based upon their own business idea. Business plans are evaluated by a team of judges and cash prizes are awarded to winners in various categories.

     Generation E by Sedi is a one-day session that allows secondary school students to think creatively to better understand their connection to the world of entrepreneurship and self-employment. There is no shortage of idea generation in this workshop; it is a very fun, quick paced, activity-based day. Students will explore their entrepreneurial potential, and find out if entrepreneurship is a career option they may want to consider. Students usually leave Generation E with the confidence that they possess the ability to generate as many ideas as the next person.

     The Many Faces of Entrepreneurs is a discussion forum where a diverse group of local entrepreneurs will engage post-secondary students in a discussion about the many possible entrepreneurial opportunities and challenges that arise in business. The discussion leaders will provide encouragement and information to assist others to follow in their footsteps becoming entrepreneurs.

Click here for more information about our Youth Enterprise Camp.

Funding Support Acknowlegement & Required Logos

Financial Support for this project has been provided by the Government of Canada’s Eastern Ontario Development Program, through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) and administered by the Community Futures Development Corporation serving Renfrew County.

     The Canadian Centre for Financial Literacy (CCFL) is a division of the national, charitable organization SEDI. It works through partnerships with community based social agencies in an effort to effect positive change. The CCFL believes that, for a nation and it's people to achieve lasting economic stability, financial literacy is key.

     SEDI is a Canadian national charity which has been at the forefront of initiatives that enable people to save and invest wisely and participate in the economic mainstream. The organization's work focuses on three areas: Financial Literacy, Asset Building, and Entrepreneurship.

Financial Literacy Seminars

     Renfrew County Community Futures will be holding Financial Literacy seminars for those who are looking to gain valuable knowledge of money management and how to apply the concepts to your own life. The multi-module seminars are delivered by iKatie Burchart et Mike Thompson of Community Futures.

Seminars covering the following information:

• Budgeting
• Savings
• Banking Basics
• Credit: Ratings & Scores
• Credit Cards
• Credit Bureau
• Investing Basics  

 
     Our goal is to assist you in your journey to a better understanding of managing your personal finances in order to fuel more informed decisions.

      To receive more information on upcoming seminars, please phone 613.735.3951 or email rccfdcinfo@bellnet.ca

Interest rates start at prime plus 2%, depending on the level of risk involved with the loan.

What makes RCCFDC different from a regular lending institution?

At Community Futures, we have developed loan criteria that look beyond conventional financial formulas, we look at the whole plan. We want to work with you to make your business a success. The goal of our loans program is to get your business to a point where it is bankable.

What will my monthly payments be?

Contact the Business Development Officer to discuss repayment amounts and options.

Do you require security?

We require security equal to the value of the loan. Security can come in many forms; a realty mortgage, equipment and personal guarantees, assignment of life insurance (arrangements made by RCCFDC) to name just a few.

How do I apply?

Contact the Business Development Officer (BDO) to discuss your business needs. Application packages can be emailed, mailed or picked up at our office after speaking with the BDO. 

What is the minimum and/or maximum loan amount?

Loans range from $10,000 to $150,000.

How long do I have to pay back the loan?

The maximum term length is 5 years, amortized over 10 years. The term of any loan will be determined by our investment committee based on your cash flow forecast and over all capacity. All of our loans are reviewed annually. Our loans are repayable in full at any time without penalty.

Do I have to submit a full business plan?

Processing time of applications can be directly influenced by the quality of the business plan and information provided. The more information provided to the BDO, the higher the quality of the application and the BDO’s ability to provide the RCCFDC Investments committee with complete and accurate information.

How long will it take before I can get money?

This often depends on the ability of the client to complete the conditions and security requests explained in the “Letter of Offer”. Once all the security documents are completed we will do our best to ensure funds are distributed in a timely fashion. If you do have a specific time frame, make sure it is communicated to the BDO and we will try to accommodate your request.

The maximum amount of financing received under Access to Capital is $25,000. This loan is non-interest bearing(0%) and paid back over 1-5 years.

Eligible Recipients

• Non-profit organizations;
• Municipalities;
• Municipal organizations;
• Community development organizations;
• Associations;
• Legal commercial entities including individuals, corporations, partnerships, cooperatives or trusts;
• Aboriginal organizations.

Eligible Projects

Projects must:

• Retrofit vacant or underutilized commercial, industrial or retail lands and properties.
• Projects must be incremental and demonstrate an increase in the marketability of the building or region and, where possible, demonstrate the potential for increase in employment.

Eligible Costs Include

• Direct Capital costs;
• Costs must be incremental, reasonable and directly relate to the project activities;

Funding Criteria

• Applicants seeking assistance for façade improvements will be eligible for up to $25,000 in re-payable, non-interest bearing loans to be amortized over a period up to 5 years;
• Impact on community economic development in Renfrew County;
• Building or property must be located in Renfrew County;
• Applicant can be the owner of the building or vacant land

Application Process

Potential applicants may contact Mike Thompson, Business Development Officer, Renfrew County Community Futures Development Corporation at 613.735.3951 ext. 223 prior to completing an application to ensure it fits the criteria.

Receipt of an application by RCCFDC does not indicate a commitment for funding.

Applications for funding from eligible recipients will be reviewed by staff and presented to the RCCFDC Investment Committee who will be responsible for vetting applications and recommending projects to the Board of Directors for approval.

If the application is approved, RCCFDC will prepare a letter of offer with terms, conditions, and repayment schedule. Disbursements may be tied to the achievement of specific goals.

RCCFDC staff will monitor individual projects and provide progress reports to the Investment Committee and Board. Proponents will provide ongoing reports as required and will submit a final report upon completion.

Evaluation Criteria

• Not produce market disruption;
• Be incremental and demonstrate an increase in the marketability of the building or region and where possible, demonstrate the potential for increased employment;
• Applicant’s ability to repay the loan;
• Applicant’s credit history;
• Availability of adequate security;
• Level of applicant’s investment (projects demonstrating investment by the applicant will be given priority);
• Impact of the project on the competitiveness of the applicant

To Apply Click Here

If you decide to proceed, the BDO will provide you with a loan application package containing the Loan Application, Personal Net Worth Statement and Application Checklist.

2. Develop a business plan, including 3 year financial projections.
3. Complete the Loan application and Personal Net Worth Statement.
4. Refer to the application checklist for additional information that should accompany your application.
5. Submit your completed package to the BDO.
6. A credit check will be conducted on all applicants.
7. Supply any additional information that is requested by the BDO.
8. Loans are presented to the RCCFDC investments committee (comprised of local volunteers) for approval.

Our Business Development Officer will analyze your loan application package and present it to the Investment Committee. Decisions are based on the strength of your business plan, your ability to repay, available security, impact of job creation or maintenance and the impact on long term growth for the community.

The BDO will then contact you regarding the committee’s decision. If your loan has been approved, you will receive a “Letter of Offer”, outlining the terms and conditions of the loan.

9. Upon acceptance of the Terms and Conditions set out in the offer, we will commence preparation of legal security documents.
10. Once the security documents are completed, we will be in a position to disburse the funds.

• Equipment purchases
• Real estate purchases
• Expansion expenses
• Start-up costs.

We take the following into account when you apply for assistance:

• adequate security
• creation or maintenance of jobs
• economic viability of the business
• assessment of management skills and abilities
• client character including credit history
• ability of the business to repay the loan
• adequate security creation or maintenance of jobs
• environmental factors
• business location (must be located in Renfrew County)

The Renfrew County Community Futures Development Corporation approached the Monieson Centre at Queen's University to conduct a preliminary feasibility study on energy generation from biomass under the Ontario Feed-In-Tariff (FIT) program.  The draft report was completed March 31, 2011.  Members of the research team were in Pembroke on May 25, 2011 to present the research findings and answer questions related to the subject matter. 

The report is to be a tool, used by Municipal, Industry and Community representatives to advocate for an ammendment to the current FIT rate as set by the Ontario Power Authority in their review of the program from May through October 2011.

The final report and accompanying presentation are now available online. 

Questions concerning this project can be directed to dvwybou@bellnet.ca or 613.735.3951 ext. 229.

Phone: 613.735.3951
Fax: 613.735.7840
Toll Free: 1.888.225.8331

An effective and low-cost way of social marketing, Facebook is a social utility for connecting people with those around them.  It allows users to connect and share information in a variety of ways.

Using features such as the news feed, timeline, chat, and more, facebook creates an environment for fostering direct client to business relationships.

Twitter

Twitter is a real-time information network connecting you to the latest stories, ideas, opinions and news about whatever you find interesting.  users share their thoughts, news, information and jokes in 140 characters of text or less.  The message below provides you with an idea of just how long 140 characters is;

These messages (tweets) are public, and YOU decide which accounts you want to receive messages from.
Due to it's rule of using no more than 140 characters, Twitter forces the user to get straight to the point of their message, providing links to further information should the read wish to read it.  This convenience has become one of the largest supporting factors in why people use Twitter.

Linkedin is a website designed to connect business professionals and enable them to share information, get answers, and promote themselves and their businesses

YouTube

Allows billions of people to discover, watch and share originally-created videos

Provides a forum for people to connect, inform, and inspire others across the globe and acts as a distribution platform for original content creators and advertisers large and small.

Pinterest

Pinterest is an online virtual clipboard great for posting pictures of anything of interest.
It links back to a company webpage, enhancing website traffic for the business.
Remember that a good picture adds so much more value to customers than by simply using words.

Google+

Google + is Google’s newest platform launched in 2011.  It is a new social platform that mixes aspects of different avenues of social media.  Here you can follow someone in a circle, chat with people individually, and even start a hangout for groups (like a chatroom).
Hangouts are great to use for discussions such as a question/answer session with your customers.  Anyone with an account can join in and take advantage of your time devoted to hearing people out.

To Learn Online is an online learning web site where students can take professional development and business courses that are self-paced, 100% online, and at no cost!

To Learn Online is operated by the Ontario Association of Community Futures Development Corporations (OACFDC) with support from FedDev Ontario and Industry Canada. The association works in cooperation with professional associations, post secondary institutions, universities and colleges aimed at providing learners greater access to professional development through online learning.

Online learning is ideal for business owners and staff who are interested in expanding their business knowledge, but prefer to study part-time while maintaining their work and family commitments.

To Learn Online offers a wide range of accessible, interesting and practical courses – all of which are available in both official languages. There are over 100 different courses to take; some of the topics currently being offered are marketing, presentation skills, strategic management, tutorials in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint & more.

Please visit the website to view the full course catalogue.

How Do I Get Started?

The free courses can be taken anywhere that has an internet connection (high speed recommended).

Step One:
Visit the website www.tolearnonline.ca to take a tour, view the complete list of courses available, or take a demo course.

Step Two:
Once you’ve decided on the course(s) you would like to take, contact RCCFDC with your name, the name of your business or organization, your email address and telephone number. We will provide you with a username and password, and you’re ready to begin your learning journey.

Algonquin College in the Ottawa Valley offers programs and courses that will enhance and elaborate on the introductory knowledge gained in the workshops offered by To Learn Online. Leadership, Business Management, Project Management, and Bookkeeping certificates are all available as well as a variety of seven week MS Office computer courses.

All this and more in the "onCourse" catalogue http://extraweb.algonquincollege.com/pembroke/

The Delfi Group focuses on helping each and every one of their customers become the best they can be. They provide consulting services in almost every facet of human resources management and strategic management. Their programs include: Organizational Management, Human Resources Management, Improving Employee Effectiveness and Productivity, Leadership Development Training and Coaching and Customer Service, Sales and Business Development Training.

Please visit their website to find out more: www.thedelfigroup.com

N.B.: To Learn Online (formerly CFDI) is operated by the Ontario Association of Community Futures Development Corporations (OACFDC) with development support from FedNor and Industry Canada.

     Scroll to the bottom of this page to be directed to our eBook Library with titles available for immediate access and download.

A Passion for Life	Salim Khoja
A Passion for Life is the ultimate blueprint for every man and woman who seeks a higher quality of life. You will discover the timeless principles that have shaped the lives of successful and fulfilled people - high achievers.

A Shop for one’s Own: Women who turned the Dream into a Reality	Rachel Epstein
You don't need a business degree or experience as an entrepreneur - just the right advice that will take you from getting started to creating a place that's as unique as the items you want to sell.

Bankruptcy Guide	Earl Sands
The Bankruptcy Guide shows you how to take control of your debt and avoid bankruptcy. Options other than bankruptcy are examined. If it turns out that bankruptcy or a proposal to your creditors is the only way for you to get a fresh start, the Bankruptcy Guide will give you the information you need to make an informed decision.

Basic Accounting for the Small Business	Clive G Cornish
Written in clear, everyday English, not in accounting jargon, this book will help you and your office staff keep better records - and keep your cool! Inside you will find illustration of sample forms and instructions.

Clearing the Hurtles	Candida Brush, Nancy M. Carter, Elizabeth Gatewood, Patricia G G
Clearing the Hurdles draws on five years of original research, performed as part of the Diana Project - a major initiative that explores ways women grow businesses.

Cut your losses	Keith O’Brien
Using real-life scenarios to demonstrate the many ways your store can lose money, Keith O'Brien offers expert solutions to some of the toughest scams and swindles around. Practical worksheets and exercises help you analyze the high risk areas where your business could use improvements, and sample forms and procedures tell you how to put an end to loss in your store overnight.

Cyber Law Canada	Jeffrey M. Shelling
As a Internet user, you need to have an understanding of the basic principles of cyberlaw: not only how to legally use the Internet but also how to protect yourself from unlawful users. This book will help you understand: on-line liability, secure on-line commercial transactions etc.

Doing Big Business on the Internet	Brian Hurley, Peter Birkwood
This book helps you determine and then target your market, providing a thorough analysis of the most up-to-date tools and services you can use to operate a successful Internet business. The key steps to setting up and operating an Internet business are also discussed.

Effective Networking Strategies	Donna Messer
Networking is the single most effective way to build a successful business. Good networking skills guarantee continued growth.

Female Enterprise in the New Economy	Karen D. Hughes
Femal Enterprise in the New Economy combines rigorous review of quantitative data with original qualitative work...Hughes shows that women in small business surprisingly do not feel themselves beset by job and economic insecurity but do feel subject to time binds around work, family, and self.

Financial Management 101: Get a Grip on Your Business Numbers	Angie Mohr
This book covers business planning, from understanding financial statements to budgeting for advertising. Angie Mohr's easy-to-understand approach to small-business planning and management ensures that the money coming in is always greater than the money going out!

Fresh Grown Promotions	Jane Eckert, Diane Kline
By following the examples in this book, you'll learn simple, cost-effective approaches to: increase your sales revenue, attract more visitors to your farm, raise the amount spent by each visitor and how to promote different selling seasons.

Fundraising for Non-Profit Groups	Joyce Young, Ken Wyman, John Swaigen
Acquire the know-how to attract money in today's highly competitive fundraising atmosphere. Let this book help your organization find the dollars to make this world a better place.

Getting Publicity	Tana Fletcher, Julia Rockler
If you'd like to know all the inside secrets for attracting publicity to your business, your association, or yourself, you need this book. Step-by-step instructions illustrate just what it takes to attract media attention to any enterprise.

Good to Great	Jim Collins
Collins and his crew discovered the key determinants of greatness - why some companies make the leap and others don't.

Growing New Ventures – Creating New Jobs	Mark P. Rice, Jana P. Matthews
Growing New Ventures, Creating New Jobs provides practical advice to those who want to help entrepreneurs develop successful companies and create jobs in their communities.

Hardball for Women	Pat Heim, Susan K. Golant
Hardball for Women, revised to reflect the latest changes in the workplace, decodes the male business culture and gives readers strategies on how to use its rules to get ahead-and stay ahead.

How to Buy or Sell a Business	Donald Lunny
This book raises some important questions relating to the process of buying or selling a small business. It is directed especially to the person interested in buying or selling a single proprietorship.

Incorporation Forms for Ontario	Self Counsel Press
The kit contains the following forms: Articles of Incorporation, Consent to Act as a First Director, General By-Law and Share Certificates.

Inside Every Women	Vickie L Milazzo
Vickie Milazzo, a millionaire entrepreneur, shares initmate secrets of her successes and setbacks on the road to building a thriving business.

Leadership and the One-Minute Manager	Ken Blanchard
In clear, simple terms Leadership and the One Minute Manager teaches managers the art of Situational Leadership-a simple system that refutes the conventional management mandate of treating all employees equally.

Leading Today’s Volunteers 2nd Edition	Flora Mac Leod Sarah Hogarth
This book will help you hire a volunteer program manager and set up a program to organize, evaluate, and recognize your volunteers.

Lessons from the Edge	Jana Mathews, Jeff Dennis
In Lessons from the Edge, more than 50 business owners and entrepreneurs offer a wealth of real-life stories - in their own words - that provide rare insights about keeping a company healthy and growing.

Low Budget Online Marketing for Small Business	Holly Berkley
Low-Budget Online Marketing for Small Business takes you behind the scenes of successful marketing campaigns. This book will show you how to cut costs so that you can adapt the same successful marketing strategies that big companies use.

Managing a Successful Business in Canada	Tony Fattal
Managing a Successful Business in Canada addresses the key issues facing small business management. Clearly written essays avoid jargon and drive straight to the heart of every manager's concern - how to make business successful.

Marketing your Product 4th Edition	Donald Cyr, Douglas Gray
Marketing Your Product explains how a company can carve a niche for its product in today's competitive consumer environment. It describes customers' buying impulses, how products satisfy those impulses, how to inform customers about your product, and what it takes to get your product to consumers.

Marketing your Service	Jean Withers, Carol Vipperman
This book explains how to develop a marketing plan that will work for any service business - from law firms and dental practices to hair salons and auto repair shops. Whatever your business, it will profit from expanding your market.

Naked In the Boardroom	Robin Wolaner
For women who are wondering just what it takes to pull off their own triumps in the fickle business world, Wolander presents 80 Naked Truths that provide instantly gratifying lessons for ambitious women.

Negotiate Your Commercial Lease 2nd Edition	Dale R. Willerton
Netotiate Your Commercial Lease will alert you to potential pitfalls and help you avoid them; it will also show you what to strive for.

Nice girls don’t get rich	Lois P. Frankel
Lois Frankel tackles the 75 financial mistakes that keep women from having the wealth they deserve.

Power Tools for Women in Business	Aliza Sherman
PowerTools for Women in Business is filled with advice and real-life stories from over 70 businesswomen.

Preparing a Successful Business Plan 4th Edition	Rodger D Touchie
Preparing a Successful Business Plan will help you create an effective strategy for selling your ideas to investors. Recognizing that a business plan constitutes much more than the written document, this book will enable you to lay the groundwork for a dynamic process of planning, reviewing, and updating your business agenda.

Protecting Trade Secrets	Nishan Swais
Protect your confidential business information; this book answers your questions.

Pure Selling – The Basics	Wayne Vanwyck
To achieve such high career and salary goals, you need the right skills and knowledge to be more confident and effective. With a unique blend of proven communication skills and an understanding of today's marketplace. Wayne Vanwyck will help you break through your self-imposed barriers to create lasting and profitable partnerships with your customers.

Ready to use Business Forms 3rd Edition	Self Counsel Press
If you own a small business and want standardized forms to help your business run more smoothly, you need this book.

Simply Essential Personal Budgeting Kit	Sylvia S Lim
It's a step-by-step guide to getting yourself back on track financially for the rest of your life.

Smart Women Finish Rich	David Bach
Whether you're working with a few dollars a week or a substantial inheritance, Bach's nine-step program gives you the tools for spending wisely, establishing security and aligning your money with your values.

So You Want to Buy a Franchise	Douglas Gray, Norman Friend
Surveys show that a new Canadian franchise business opens every hour and forty-five minutes, and the number and variety of franchises available in Canada keeps growing. So which franchise in which industry is the right fit for you? How do you make sure you are making a wise investment before you sign on the dotted line? This all-Canadian book offers tips and advice to help you.

Standing at the Crossroads	Marian N. Ruderman, Patricia J. Ohlott
The authors debunk the common myth that women must give up life's other roles to be successful professionally, and offer research to show that multiple roles in fact benefit and enhance women's managerial performance.

Start and Run a Bed and Breakfast	Monica Taylor and Richard Taylor
This book shows you the business side of opening your home to visitors. The clearly written text, along with dozens of easy-to-follow worksheets and explanatory samples, shows you how to plan everything from renovations to record keeping and how to keep your business running trouble free through its first few years.

Start and Run a Bookkeeping Business	Angie Mohr, CA, CMA
Start and Run a Bookkeeping Business will teach you the basics of running your own business and provide insider tips to keep it running smoothly. Whether you are just starting your own business or wanting to expand, this book will show you how.

Start and Run a Catering Business	George Erdosh
Detailing everything you need to know to attract clients and turn a profit, this book also offers tips on unique table decorations and surefire recipes that will win rave reviews.

Start and Run a Copywriting Business	Steve Slaunwhite
This book will provide new copywriters and old pros alike with proven, step-by-step strategies on how to find clients, complete common copywriting tasks, set up an effective office, and overcome the unique challenges inherent in this business.

Start and Run a Craft Business	William G. Hynes
This book gives practical step-by-step instructions for setting up and operating a successful craft business, whether it is done from the kitchen table or a production line.

Start and Run a Desktop Publishing Business	Barbara A. Fanson
Whether you would like to strike out on your own or have been operating a business for years, this book is full of helpful advice on how to run an efficient and profitable desktop publishing business - from registering a business name to producing artwork, to invoicing and collecting your fees.

Start and Run a Handyman Business	Sharah White and Kevin Pegg
With the easy-to-read tips and business strategies taught in this book, you will learn how to make a handyman business profitable. This book will give you both tips for doing the jobs and the skills needed to run the business.

Start and Run a Home Cleaning Business	Susan Bewsey
With the help of this book, you can get your business up and running, and survive that essential first year.

Start and Run a Home Daycare	Catherine M. Pruissen
Start & Run a Home Daycare provides the information you need to build a thriving business caring for children.

Start and Run a Profitable Business Using Your Computer	Douglas Gray
Start and Run a Profitable Business Using Your Computer is sure to get you started down the path to success. Showing you step by step how to start a business, this book includes topics such as: Choosing a suitable business structure, Preparing a business plan, Obtaining financing, Setting up your office, Minimizing taxes, Determining market opportunities and Marketing your service or product.

Start and Run a Profitable Consulting Business	Douglas A. Gray
This practical step-by-step success guide shows how anyone can turn knowledge and experience into a profitable consulting business. The comprehensive discussions on all aspects of consulting will get you over that first hurdle of starting your business and direct you toward a successful and profitable marketing plan.

Start and Run a Profitable Freelance Writing Business	Christine Adamec
Writing is a business, and to be successful at it, you have to be an effective self-promoter, an able negotiator, a tireless researcher, and a talented writer. This book will help you decide whether a career as a freelance writer is for you, and it guides you through each step to success.

Start and Run a Profitable Gift Basket Business	Mardi Foster-Walker
This book is for people who want to start a gift basket company as a home-based business or in a rented studio or office space. It gives practical instructions for setting up and operating a gift basket business, whether it is done from the home or from a workshop.

Start and Run a Profitable Home-Based Business	Edna Sheedy
If you dream about working from home then this book is for you. In clear, lively language, the author provides information on a variety of questions.

Start and Run a Profitable Mail Order Business	Robert W. Bly
Whether you want to supplement your regular income or earn a handsome full-time income, this book will introduce you to the world of mail order. Case studies and samples of mail order marketing materials show you what to do - and what not to do.

Start and Run a Profitable Office Service Business from Your Home	Louise Hagan
If you have experience and training in office services, you can use your skills to be self-employed in your home.

Start and Run a Profitable Restaurant	Michael M. Coltman
This book provides all the information you need to get started and make a profit in the restaurant business. It takes you step by step through the process and shares tips from the experts so you can avoid the mistakes that so many new restaurateurs make.

Start and Run a Profitable Secondhand Store	Richard Cropp, Barbara Braidwood, and Susan M. Boyce
A step-by-step guide to turning treasure hunting into a lucrative business, this book contains everything the entrepreneur needs to know to cash in on the business, from what kinds of items to sell to financing a new enterprise.

Start and Run a Profitable Tour Guide Business	Richard Cropp, Barbara Braidwood, Susan M. Boyce
The authors provide background information on the travel industry, describe what is involved in tour guiding, explain how to develop tours to your favorite destination, and outline the planning you must do no matter where you are going.

Start and Run a Retail Business	Jim Dion, Ted Topping
Retailing experts Jim Dion and Ted Topping give clear instructions and knowledgeable advice on how an owner-operated retail business needs to be organized to survive and prosper in today's highly competitive retail environment.

Start your Own Hair Salon and Day Spa	Eileen Figure Sandlin
Professional industry experts share inside information and invaluable advice, revealing how they have been successful in this lucrative business and, more important, how you can be successful, too.

Start your own Medical Claims Billing Service	Rob and Terry Adams
This start-up guide teaches you everything you need to know to get into this perfect starter business.

Start-ups That Work	Joel Kurtzman, Glen Rifkin
"Startups That Work by Joel Kurtzman shares research and guidance on what makes or breaks a new company. This is a valuable book." Ken Blanchard, coauthor, The One-Minute Manager and The Secret.

Starting a Small Business in Ontario	Ministry of Enterprise, Opportunity and Innovation
This is not a "how to" book, but concentrates rather on "what to do" before making any investment of time or money.

Starting From Scratch- Secrets From 21 Ordinary People Who Made the Entrepreneur Leap	Wes Moss
In Starting from Scratch, Wes Moss shares with you the passion, values, and inspiration that led people just like you to exit Corporate Street and merge onto Entrepreneurial Avenue.

Tax Tips for Small Business	Tariq S. Jan
Tax Tips for Small Business shows you 160 legal ways to reduce your taxes. These tax tips will help you retain cash in your business so that you can grow it into something larger.

Technology in the Garden – Research Parks & Regional Economic Development	Michael L. Luger, Harvey A. Goldstein
A jusiciously presented study that will be of considerable interest to researchers. It systematically analyzes whether research parks do in fact generate new businesses and jobs.

Tele-Commuting Managing off site Staff for Small Business	Lin Grensing-Pophal
This book provides managers with the tools to set up and maintain a productive telecommuting program that benefits both employees and employers.

The Best Dam Business Book in The world	William E. Caswell
This is a book for beavers everywhere who want to learn, step by step, how to build a dam that will last a lifetime.

The Finish Rich Workbook	David Bach
This guidebook for financial planning is designed to help you change your life. In it, you will find a 10-step action plan that will help your create, write down, and forward toward your personal and financial goals.

The HR Book: Human Resources Management for Small Business	Lin Grensing-Pophal
The HR Book provides you with the tools and knowledge to take an active and positive approach to maintaining an effective and workable human resources plan.

Winning Proposals – How to Write Them and Get Results	Hans Tammemagi
This book teaches you the secrets of winning proposals and explains the powerful art of persuasion. It takes you beyond formulas and recipes, revealing the psychology needed to give your proposal that special edge for success. If you complete for contracts, research grants, venture capital, financial assistance, or funds for business or charity, you need this book.

Winning Websites	Bob Whitcroft
Winning Web Sites provides a framework for determining what your site should accomplish, then discusses organizing and selecting effective content and design, and planning the Web pages.

• Canada Business Ontario www.cbo.eco.ca 
• Strategis (Industry Canada) www.ic.gc.ca

Government Grants and Subsidies:

• www.canadabusiness.ca

Business Plans:

• Interactive Business Planner from Canada Business www.canadabusiness.ca/eng/125/138/
• Download RCCFDC’s business plan guide and cash flow projections.

Financing:

• Business Development Bank of Canada www.bdc.ca
• Canada Business www.canadabusiness.ca
• Strategis www.strategis.gc.ca/sources

Business Tools and Guides:

• Canadian Innovation Centre www.innovationcentre.ca/
• Canadian Standards Association www.csa.ca
• OnCorp Direct Companies (small business registration & name search, incorporation, etc.) www.oncorp.com/
• Performance Plus Business Benchmarks (Industry Canada) www.ic.gc.ca/epic/site/pp-pp.nsf/en/Home

Human Resources:

• Employers Online http://employers.gc.ca/
• Workplace Safety and Insurance Board http://www.wsib.on.ca/wsib/wsibsite.nsf/public/homepage
• Ministry of Labour www.labour.gov.on.ca

Intellectual Property:

• Intellectual Property office www.cipo.ic.gc.ca

Exporting:

• Export Source – TEAM Canada http://exportsource.ca/gol/exportsource/site.nsf/
• Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade http://www.infoexport.gc.ca/

Trade Shows:

• Uni Link Worlds Top Trade Shows www.unilinkfairs.com/

Business Associations:

• Canadian Chamber of Commerce www.chamber.ca
• Renfrew Chamber of Commerce www.renfrewontario.com/chamber/chamber.htm
• Upper Ottawa Valley Chamber of Commerce http://www.upperottawavalleychamber.com/
• Arnprior Chamber of Commerce http://www.gacc.ca/
• Deep River Chamber of Commerce http://www.deepchamber.ca/
• Calabogie and Area Business Association http://www.calabogie.org/
• Canadian Federation of Independent Business http://www.cfib.ca/en/
• Canadian Franchise Association http://www.cfa.ca/CFA_HTM/Home.html

Youth:

• Youth Opportunities Ontario http://www.youthjobs.gov.on.ca/
• Canada Youth Business Foundation http://www.cybf.ca/

Other:

• County of Renfrew http://www.countyofrenfrew.on.ca/
• Enterprise Renfrew County http://www.enterpriserenfrewcounty.com/
• Algonquin College http://www.algonquincollege.com/pembroke/
• Ontario Association of Community Futures http://www.ontcfdc.com/
• Pan Canadian Community Futures Network http://www.communityfutures.ca/    

Ontario:

• Government of Ontario http://www.gov.on.ca/
• Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/
• Ontario Business Gateway http://www.gov.on.ca/ont/portal/!ut/p/.cmd/cs/.ce/7_0_A/.s/7_0_252/_s.7_0_A/7_0_252/_l/en?docid=STEL02_038758

Revenue Canada:

• www.cra-arc.gc.ca

Our professional staff are knowledgeable about the local market place and understand the challenges faced by your business. We can assist you at every stage of your business; from planning a business start-up, developing a business plan with financial projections, to expansion projects and sources of financing. In addition to a full range of print and electronic resources, we can direct you to available federal, provincial and local expertise that can assist you in translating your ideas into reality.

Please contact our office at 613.735.3951 to schedule an appointment with one of our staff members.

INTRODUCTION

RCCFDC is a federally supported not-for-profit community organization with a volunteer Board of Directors and professional staff whose purpose is to support community economic development and small business growth through business loans or loan guarantees.

This brochure summarizes RCCFDC's privacy policies and procedures that have been developed to comply with Canada's Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act ("PIPEDA"). PIPEDA sets out rules for the collection, use and disclosure of a client's or customer's personal information, as well as safeguarding that information in the course of commercial activity as defined in the legislation.

WHAT IS "PERSONAL INFORMATION"

Under PIPEDA, "Personal Information" means any information that is identifiable to an individual, including name, address, telephone number, Social Insurance Number, and date of birth. It also includes, but is not limited to, other information relating to identity, such as, nationality, gender, marital status, financial information and credit history.

PURPOSES FOR PERSONAL INFORMATION

RCCFDC collects only that personal information required to assess a prospective applicant's eligibility for financial assistance, as well as to report to Industry Canada, the federal department that administers the Ontario Community Futures Program.

CONSENT

At the time of completing a loan application, the express, written consent of the individual applicant will be sought for the collection, use, retention and disclosure of their personal information for the purposes set out in RCCFDC's privacy policy.

An applicant may choose not to provide some or all of the personal information requested, but if RCCFDC is unable to collect sufficient information to validate a financing request, the application for financing may be turned down.

ACCURACY

RCCFDC endeavours to ensure that all personal information in active files are accurate, current and complete. When a client notifies RDDFDC that his or her personal information requires correction or updating, the necessary changes will be made. Information contained in closed files is not updated.

LIMITING USE, RETENTION & DISCLOSURE

RCCFDC uses and retains personal information for only those purposes to which the individual has consented.

Personal information will be disclosed to only those RCCFDC] employees, volunteer members of committees and/or Board of Directors that need to know the information for the purposes set out in the RCCFDC Privacy Policy.

SAFEGUARDS

RCCFDC utilizes a number of physical, organizational and technological measures to safeguard personal information from unauthorized access or inadvertent disclosure in accordance with its Information Security, Retention and Destruction Policy, including but not limited to:

Physical

Active files are stored in locked filing cabinets located in work areas restricted to RCCFDC] employees and authorized volunteers. Closed files are stored in locked cabinets for a period of seven years, after which, the information is shredded prior to disposal.

Organizational

RCCFDC employees, volunteers, and third party service providers sign confidentiality agreements binding them to safeguarding the confidentiality of personal information to which they have access.

Technological

Personal information contained on RCCFDC computers and the electronic databases are password protected. As well, the Internet server or router has firewall protection to protect against virus attacks and hacking into the database.

Electronic Transmission of Information

Notwithstanding the technological safeguards implemented by RCCFDC all Internet transmissions are susceptible to possible loss, misrouting, interception and misuse. For this reason, as part of the application that individual's sign consenting to their personal information being collected used, retained, and disclosed, RCCFDC will assume that it has the individual's consent to communicate via the Internet unless notified to the contrary.

INDIVIDUAL ACCESS

An individual who wishes to review or verify what personal information is held by RCCFDC, may do so by making a request, in writing to the RCCFDC's Chief Privacy Officer. Upon verification of the individual's identity, the Chief Privacy Officer will provide a written report within 60 days.

INVESTIGATING COMPLAINTS

Any concern or issue about RCCFDC's personal information handling practises may be made, in writing, to the Chief Privacy Officer. Upon verification of the individual's identity, the Chief Privacy Officer will act promptly to investigate the complaint and provide a written report to the individual.

If the individual is dissatisfied with the report provided by the Chief Privacy Officer, or feels that the corrective action taken by RCCFDC is insufficient, the individual may direct a complaint to the Federal Privacy Commissioner in writing. The address of the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada is provided in this Privacy Statement for your convenience.

AMENDMENTS TO OUR PRIVACY POLICY

This Privacy Statement is a summary of RCCFDC's Privacy Policy. For full particulars of RCCFDC a copy of the Privacy Policy may be obtained from RCCFDC.

The RCCFDC Privacy Policy and this Privacy Statement are in effect May 10, 2004 and is retroactive to January 1, 2004.  RCCFDC's Privacy Policy and this Privacy Statement may be updated from time to time to reflect amendments in applicable Federal and Provincial laws. Any changes to this Privacy Policy will be posted on RCCFDC website and will apply to personal information collected from the date of the posting of the revised Privacy Policy.

CONTACT INFORMATION

If you have any questions regarding RCCFDC’s Privacy Policy, Information Security, Retention and Destruction Policy, and/or this Privacy Statement, or you wish to make an access to personal information request, please contact:

Diane McKinnon, Executive Director

613.735.3951

mckinnon@bellnet.ca

OTHER HELPFUL PRIVACY LINKS

For a copy of PIPEDA, or for answers to other questions regarding privacy legislation, below are some helpful privacy links.

Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada
http://www.priv.gc.ca/index_e.cfm

112 Kent Street

Place de Ville

Tower B, 3rd Floor

Ottawa, Ontario

K1A 1H3

Toll free: 1 (800) 282-1376

Tel.: (613) 995-8210

Information and Privacy Commissioner/Ontario
http://www.ipc.on.ca/english/Home-Page/

2 Bloor Street East
Suite 1400
Toronto, Ontario
M4W 1A8

Toll free: 1 (800) 387-0073 (Ontario)

Tel.: (416) 326-3333

Siskinds LLP
Privacy Law Group
www.siskinds.com

11 Prince Arthur Avenue

Toronto, Ontario

M5R 1B2

Tel.: (416) 362-8334

The Pembroke Welcome Centre is open:  

Mid-September through May:

• Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm 

June 1 – September 14:

• Monday to Wednesday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
• Thursday and Friday, 8:30 am to 6:00 pm
• Saturday and Sunday, 11:00 am to 3:00 pm

We, along with 60 other Community Futures Development Corporation’s in rural Ontario receive operational funding from the Government of Canada through FedDev Ontario.

Renfrew County Community Futures Development Corporation is run by a board of local volunteers and professional staff, we take a grass roots approach to investing in local entrepreneurs and community initiatives.

An Introduction to Social Media for Small Business

Mike Wicks

Social Media is not just about dealing with what people say about you online.  It's about communicating with your customers and future customers, it's about building a community, being pat of other communities; it's about educating people, listening to them, and letting them know all about you, your company, the people that work for you, your products, your services, your business philosophy, your integrity and your organizational culture. From this book you will learn: how to develop a social media strategy; how to become your own community manager; avoid the rookie mistakes people make when starting out in social media; understand how Facebook, LinkedIn, Google+, Twitter and more can help grow your business; how to build your social media network; manage your reputation; save time through social media; and a little about the new kid on the block, location-based social media.

Best Practices and Strategies for Small Business Success

Ingrid Vaughan

This ebook is presented in 3 sections: Business Efficiency, Stress Management, and Business Management. In the first section will learn 12 Ways to Create More Time in Your Day, something appealing to every business owner. All small business owners manage a lot of stress, so the second section gives you some great strategies on effectively managing your stress, avoiding burnout, and staying healthy in spite of the often crazy demands of running your buisness. In the third section, you'll find a variety of ideas to help you better manage your business. Small business owners face a multitude of challanges, and we're always looking for ways to provide strategies for success. This business strategies anthology will do just that - provide you with tools and information to lead your business toward growth and success.

Making Your Business Stand Out, Small Business Marketing Strategies that Really Work

Ingrid Vaughan

This anthology on Marketing will give you lots of hands-on, straight-forward ways to improve your small business marketing. In volume one of our Marketing series you will find a variety of tips and habits that will show you how to increase your competitive edge in the marketplace. Using strategies from large successful corporations and showing you how you can make them work for your small business. In addition, you'll find information on the importance of honesty in your marketing message, and on blending traditional , proven marketing strategies with new methods of delivering them. With Cooperative Marketing, you'll learn how to collablroate with other businesses to expand your exposure and increase your customer base. You'll also find out how cause-related marketing can help you increase business.

Managing Your Greatest Asset, HR Principles for Small Business	Ingrid Vaughan
Many small business owners find themselves in the business of "people management" as a result of business growth, but they were never trained in human resources, and find the task of people management frustrating and exhausting. Volume one of our Human Resources series consists of a variety of articles that will help you manage people better.

Sales Tips and Strategies to Increase Your Sales Success

Ingrid Vaughan

This ebook is a quick and easy read, but the advice in these articles has the power to increse your sales significantly, if you start adopting them today! Volume One of our Sales series contains over 50 tips and habits spanning fast-paced articles that will help you avoid the pitfalls of selling in today's increasingly competitive markets. Whether you are a small business entreprenuer new to sales, or a long-in-the-tooth sales professional, you'll find something in this ebook to make you think about how you are approaching prospects, making presentations and closing (or not closing) sales.

Starting a Business 101 (Canadian Edition)

Mike Wicks

Starting a Business 101 provides you with information and advice that is less readily available in start-up buisness books. First, we want to encourage you to look deep within yourself to see if starting a business really suits you - after all we wouldn't want you to leave a secure job and fail, wishing someone had ony warned you what entreprenuership was really like. Basically, this volume is all about making you think about what's important when starting a business.

Strategies and Tools for Delivering Great Customer Service

Ingrid Vaughan

We all demand first-rate customer service, but are we delivering it ourselves, or are we just getting by?  Do you know what your customers think of you and your company?  Do you know what they are saying about you, and are you certain that it would all be good? Do you know what it takes to keep them coming back, and referring their friends? Do you know what they need and want, and are you delivering on those needs or just selling them stuff they don't need? Discover eight customer service strategies and two highly valuable tools to put in your customer service toolkit. Whether you want to learn ten key customer service principles, or ways to wow your customers and win their loyalty, heart and soul, this is the ebook for you.

Succession Planning 101

Mike Wicks

The aim of this ebook is to provide a basic overview of some of the key points you should consider when developing a succession plan, and to encourage you t think serciously about starting to plan your exit strategy, wheth that will be five years or twenty years away. Selling your business, or simply exiting it and letting someone else run it, can be traumatic, after all we get emotionally attached to our businesses, especially if we have been in buisness for many years, but it will be a great deal more stressful if you put your head in the sand and expect succession to just happen.

The Small Business Leader, Leadership Strategies for Entrepreneurs

Ingrid Vaughan

This anthology starts with seven traits of successful entrepreneurs - leadership starts on the inside. Growing the Leader in You will help put you on track toward becoming a leader people will want to follow. We all make mistakes, it's what we learn from them that makes us improve, so check out the 5 Top Mistakes Leaders Make and see if you spot anything you might be doing wrong. As a small business owner, you are a leader. Whether you're leading your business all on your own, or have a team that looks up to you for leadership, these chapters will help you to think about things differently, and inspire and equip you to grow your leadership skills in the coming years.

     This initiative would not be possible without the generosity of the Ontario Trillium Foundation and the Eastern Ontario Development Program.

Useful Links

A business plan helps the owner to keep the business on track. It helps you see if you’re on track with your sales forecast or your marketing plan to name a few. It’s a map of where you want to go and how to get there. Once you’re there you can look back and see whether you stayed on track or if you took another route.

A business plan should be prepared by the business owner or you must have considerable input in the plan as you’re the one that’s going to put the plan into place! Get help when needed but make sure you understand.

The plan should project at least 3 years into the future and should be reviewed every year. Don’t be afraid to change your plan. Something you thought might work for your business a year ago may not be relevant today. Markets change and so should you!

A business owner doesn’t have to have an MBA to prepare their plans and you don’t necessarily have to spend a lot of money on business planning software. You can complete a professional looking business plan using simple and free programs available from banks and other business development organizations. For a list of Business Plan Templates and Samples available, visit the Canada Business website at http://www.canadabusiness.ca/eng/guide/2089/.

Article prepared by:
Janice Hollingworth
Business Development Officer
RCCFDC

Online learning is a great way to take courses while maintaining your work commitments. You can learn at home or work and study at your own pace. There are over 100 different courses to take, many take just a few hours.

Visit the website www.cfdlearn.ca, and choose the course that interests you.

Topics range from Focused Marketing, Introduction to Financial Statements, Microsoft Excel, to Time Management, and E-Business.

Once you have chosen your course contact Janice Hollingworth at 613.735.3951 ext 223 or by email at jhe@bellnet.ca. She will give you a username and password, and deposit learning dollars into your CFDI account.

Cost effective and accessible professional training is in huge demand. This online learning project was developed to address the requirements of small businesses. This project supports RCCFDC’s mandate to stimulate local economic development by offering training to community associations, and the greater business community.

High speed internet connection recommended – courses available in both English and French.

Article prepared by:

Janice Hollingworth

Business Development Officer

RCCFDC

N.B.: To Learn Online (formerly CFDI) is operated by the Ontario Association of Community Futures Development Corporations (OACFDC) with development support from FedNor and Industry Canada.

I talk daily to businesses and non-profit organizations. Most of them are looking for sources of funding opportunities available to help them in the various stages of business. Many of these businesses or non-profit organizations have been approached or found companies that are selling information of where to find different types of funding.

Businesses and Non- Profit agencies shouldn’t have to pay for this information; it’s available free of charge.

By contacting Canada Business Services for Entrepreneurs www.canadabusiness.ca or 1.800.567.2345 you can get all the information to research funding options. It’s easy and it’s free. Please visit the website or give them a call. This free service offers loads of professional, bilingual information for all businesses.

Renfrew County Community Futures Development Corporation provides financing up to $150,000 to qualified businesses in Renfrew County. Our goal is to get businesses to the point where they can get traditional bank financing.

We also provide business counseling services free of charge.

For more information on our services please call 613-735-3951 or visit our website www.rccfdc.org.

Article prepared by:

Janice Hollingworth

Business Development Officer

RCCFDC

If you think you could use some additional hands this summer, but don’t feel you have the resources to hire someone, don’t throw in the towel. Both the government of Ontario and the Government of Canada offer a number of programs designed to encourage small businesses to hire summer students, youth interns or apprentices.

Deadlines for applying to summer funding programs usually range from January to March, so now’s a good time to start the process. Programs vary in the type and amount of funding offered, which may be in the form of full or partial wage subsidies, training programs and/or tax incentives. Make sure to confirm the deadlines and application criteria with the program sponsor well in advance of your projected hiring dates.

Information on the Government of Canada’s Youth Employment Strategy (YES) Programs, including Career Focus, Skills Link and Summer Work Experience, as well as YES Internship programs can be found online at: http://www1.servicecanada.gc.ca/en/epb/yi/yep/newprog/yesprograms.shtml

Government of Ontario funding program information, including Job Connect/Summer Jobs Service, Apprenticeship Training Tax Credit and Employer Signing Bonus, as well as Ontario Targeted Wage Subsidy and Job Creation Partnerships programs can be found online at: http://www.ontariocanada.com/ontcan/1medt/en/progserv_bizserve_en.jsp.

If you have questions or concerns on funding applications, call or visit your local Service Canada (1-800-O-CANADA) or Service Ontario (1-800-268-7095) Centre for assistance.

Happy hiring!

Article prepared by:

Keanan Hunt
Community Development Officer
RCCFDC

This reports concludes:

• The renewable energy market is the only option of sufficient scale, wood quality requirement and apparent dynamism to provide a substitute for the loss of traditional pulp and wood panel markets.
• Within this emerging market, pellets are the best option to address the need to reduce the water content and increase the density of the surplus wood to allow its export out of the region.
• Users of wood pellets and chips for renewable heat and electricity must be developed regionally to reduce the transportation requiremnent and maximize the economic benefit of the activity.

To obtain an electronic copy of the report please contact Dana Jennings at 613.735.3951 ext. 226 or via email at djennings@bellnet.ca

Economists note that regions that can attract and retain creative individuals will prosper. Creativity means forward thinking, idea generation, and sustainable innovation. Being open to innovation and new opportunities is a mind-set that can be developed and nurtured. The conference will focus on developing creative advantage and nurturing creative capacity in Renfrew County by targeting four subthemes: creative economic development, creative business, creative communities and creative communication.  “SPARK” will bring delegates together to inspire and share new ideas, explore best practices and empower innovative solutions to grow our local economy.

Conference registration is fee $75 plus HST, which includes both keynote and capnote presentations, your choice of 3 out of 12 breakout sessions, 2 refreshment breaks and buffet lunch. Conference registrations will close at 12:00pm on July 18, 2011.

Please note that following your initial conference registration, you will receive an email detailing the full conference agenda and available breakout sessions.  Please choose three (3) of the twelve (12) breakout sessions that you will plan to attend.  By selecting the sessions you wish to attend in advance and returning your selections promptly to khunt@bellnet.ca, you are assisting us in ensuring the smooth facilitation of all sessions.

Thank you. We look forward to seeing you on July 26, 2011!

The installation of high-speed Internet access at the schools has been the focus of the local BRAVO (Broadband Renfrew Access Valley Ottawa) Task Force for quite some time. With the help of the Township of Killaloe, Hagarty and Richards, BRAVO was able to secure financial assistance from the Renfrew County Community Futures Development Corporation (RCCFDC) through the Eastern Ontario Development Program (EODP) to cover the costs of consultants, project management, and the purchase of equipment for the project. These funds were instrumental in levering funds from the Renfrew County Catholic District School Board to underwrite the cost of directing broadband signal to the four communities and installing receiving equipment in the schools.

Reztel, a Kingston-based Internet service provider, was attracted to the region on the strength of local funding to install the necessary equipment at the schools in September 2007. There is a spin-off effect as other institutions such as adjacent libraries and agricultural offices are able to take advantage of the newly directed broadband signal. Residents who were previously confined to dial-up connections in these communities will also benefit from the opportunity to subscribe to high-speed service.

According to statistics, 1 in 8 children in Renfrew County are living in poverty. CPAN is involved with a number of activities related to the elimination of child poverty and minimizing the effect that poverty has on children. Last year (2006/2007), CPAN was able to help more than 1,000 children in the area.

To facilitate their continued expansion, CPAN welcomed administrative intern Cora Drake in July 2007. Cora’s position is funded by the Renfrew County Community Futures Development Corporation (RCCFDC) through the Youth Internship component of the Eastern Ontario Development Program (EODP).

In her capacity as administrative assistant to the CPAN Coordinator, Ms. Drake has made considerable strides in assuming the numerous tasks required to support the programs and services of CPAN. From streamlining office procedures and tracking program information, to contacting schools and businesses encouraging program support, as well as organizing and attending public awareness and fundraising events, Cora has become a valuable asset to the organization.

Programs such as Backpack Plus, which helps to supply a backpack, school supplies and pair of shoes to needy children at the beginning of the school year, and Operation Snowsuit, which collects and distributes new or gently used snowsuits, boots, hats and mittens during the winter, have benefited from the increased organization and improved turn-around time as a result of Ms. Drake’s efforts.

CPAN Coordinator Lyn Smith is also impressed by the additional time she is now able to spend on education and advocacy, which play a key role in solving the problem of child poverty in Renfrew County.

There are many reasons why children are poor in Renfrew County. For children growing up in poverty, the reasons don't matter. The impact does. And while there are still issues to be addressed, CPAN has made considerable progress in reducing the negative impact of poverty on children in Renfrew County.

The facility offers space for up to six patients and provides 24-hour nursing care, with physician support, to terminally ill individuals. Volunteers are also essential at Hospice Renfrew, they are involved in every aspect of care as part of the team. Hospice Renfrew currently employs fifteen health care professionals and services are offered at no cost to residents.

Construction of the hospice began in June 2007, with support from a number of community businesses and organizations, including a Community Capacity Building non-repayable contribution from the Eastern Ontario Development Program, administered by Renfrew County Community Futures Development Corporation, to purchase the necessary sprinkler system equipment to meet building code regulations.

While Hospice Renfrew has secured funding from the Government of Ontario to cover approximately 80% of its operational costs, as well as a recent $900,000 loan from Infrastructure Ontario, residential hospices are traditionally supported by donations. The hospice is expected to bring $600,000 annually to the region, in addition to generous philanthropic support leveraged through fundraising efforts.

Hospice Renfrew is an initiative of local citizens seeking to establish and operate a non-profit residential hospice with programs and support services that meet the needs of the terminally ill in an inclusive setting where family and friends can be an integral part of the care. It truly is a place where Care, Comfort and Compassion are paramount.

The 50-minute production features photos, new and old, and interviews with several long-time Killaloe residents. Musical accompaniment and narration are written and performed by local residents. The final minutes of the documentary show video footage of the village in the 1950s. The historic recording was generously donated by Killaloe resident Dave Schutt whose father shot the footage on 16-mm film using a wind-up crank camera.

Under the auspices of the Eastern Ontario Development Program, Renfrew County Community Futures Development Corporation awarded $10,000 to the township to help with production costs of the DVD, as well as to provide signage for the centennial. Copies of the film can be purchased at several village businesses or from the municipal office.

In addition to the DVD, special events have been planned for each month of the year, kicking things off with a New Year’s Eve Gala at the local Lions Hall. With all this excitement in the air, residents are sure to enjoy making 2008 a year to remember in Killaloe!

In her first month, Ms. Purdy took on the Phoenix Warrior events, which included a Yuk Yuk’s evening, Family Fun Day and Poker Run. Jacquelyn assisted with event planning and organization while recruiting approximately 50 volunteers to facilitate the activities. Roughly $35,000 was raised through the series of events to support programs and services providing family centred treatment for the mental health needs of children in Renfrew County.

Next on the agenda was Renfrew County’s first-ever “Incredible Race,” a local take on TV’s “The Amazing Race,” sponsored in part by Bell Canada. Purdy organized a series of checkpoints with the assistance of local businesses and organizations, recruited 60 volunteers to supervise the checkpoints, and solicited a number of extraordinary prizes to award to event winners. Feedback from participants, volunteers and sponsoring organizations was extremely positive. The event was such a success, bringing in just under $7000, that the Phoenix Centre is excited to continue the event in future years.

Recent accomplishments include the development of the “Friends of the Phoenix” program, an annual sponsorship program that allows businesses to support the agency through financial or in-kind contributions during the same month each year, and entering a float, built and manned by 20 volunteers, in the local Santa Claus Parade.

In addition to the financial support these initiatives have garnered for the Phoenix Centre, they have done an incredible job raising awareness of the programs and services available to Renfrew County residents. The Centre also notes that the number of community members wishing to volunteer at events has increased significantly since Jacquelyn’s coming on board.

Providing work experience for youth is incredibly important so they can learn and develop skills that will enhance their opportunities for future employment, but the benefits aren’t only for the interns. Organizations who hire youth tend to benefit significantly from their energy and enthusiasm, as well as their fresh minds.

After Jacqueline’s departure from the Phoenix Centre she was able to secure full time employment as the new Executive Director for the Pembroke Regional Hospital Foundation. Ms. Purdy is an excellent example of how the youth internship program benefits youth.

With this in mind, a Health Professional Recruitment Tour, intended to provide under serviced communities with an opportunity to meet with and recruit health care professionals, recently took place. Barry’s Bay and Area Physician Recruiter Erin Gienow participated, visiting five academic centre cities in five days.

In addition to pitching “rural” living to “urban” health care professionals, the tour afforded the opportunity to debut the Barry’s Bay and Area Physician Recruitment Committee’s new marketing materials. These include a dynamic tradeshow display board, lively six-minute video and comprehensive information package, all centred on the theme “Picture Yourself in Barry’s Bay and Area.” The message incorporates eye-catching photographs showcasing the community’s lifestyle assets as well as medical images in a bid to attract energetic and motivated health workers to an active, family-oriented community.

Purchase of the materials was made possible through funding from the Eastern Ontario Development Program, administered by the Renfrew County Community Futures Development Corporation (RCCFDC).

The number of interested parties from the tour and marketing campaign are promising with one physician even taking a trial shift in the St. Francis Memorial Hospital’s ER. So can you picture yourself in Barry’s Bay and Area? We’ll soon see which new physicians can!

At the 2007 Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC) Annual Awards Conference, Renfrew County was recognized with a 2007 Marketing Canada Award for the production of “Your Guide to Exceptional Living” a.k.a. the Ottawa Valley “Z-Card.”

With financial assistance from the Eastern Ontario Development Program, administered by Renfrew County Community Futures Development Corporation (RCCFDC), the Town of Deep River and various partners developed a six-panel jumbo promotional brochure. Referred to as the “Z-Card” because of the z-shaped manner in which the brochure folds, it presents a quick reference to a variety of settlement information on ALL municipalities in Renfrew County.

The project is a significant step forward in efforts to attract newcomers to the Ottawa Valley and brings with it additional benefits for each municipality and the county as a whole. The tool provides a competitive advantage over other areas that are still using a more fragmented approach (every community for itself), which can result in bulky, incomplete community information. The unity and professionalism presented in the Z-Card are extremely welcoming to potential residents and employees, while offering additional opportunities for partner projects throughout the Ottawa Valley.

The EDAC Marketing Canada Awards are open to those organizations which undertake to promote and market Canadian provinces, territories, regions, cities, towns and areas with a view to improving the economic well-being of Canadians.

Congratulations to everyone who helped make Ottawa Valley’s “Z-Card” a true success.

Arriving at the end of his third year, the appointed time to begin the internship, Ryan decided to seek out a placement in his hometown of Renfrew, Ontario. Considering his options, he approached Barry Holt, Director of Canadian Operations at Times Fiber Canada Limited, to pitch the idea.

Holt was very receptive to the arrangement, and with the help of funding through the Youth Internship component of the Eastern Ontario Development Program, administered by Renfrew County Community Futures Development Corporation, was able to introduce Ryan to process engineering in an industrial manufacturing setting.

Just over six months into his internship, Ryan has participated in daily plant operations, as well as product reviews and process evaluations. Special projects have included assisting with the design and implementation of a new control system addressing a potential health and safety issue, completing a department review that resulted in a 15% increase in productivity, and conducting a costing evaluation revealing potential for improved quoting measures when seeking out new business.

Ryan’s internship has proved to be an invaluable experience, both for him and for Times Fiber. Youth internships help to break the cycle of “no job, no experience, no experience, no job.” And being able to do this in your own community and contribute to the lives of your neighbours, while obtaining valuable employment skills, makes the experience even more rewarding.

Ontario Association of Community Futures Development Corporations Inc.
Telephone: 1-888-633-2326 ext 25
Fax: 519-633-3563
Email: spotts@oacfdc.com

A Community Health Information Network (CHIN) site allows connected and participating health care providers in an area to access patient information through a shared server via the Internet. It is a virtual private network.

Over 75 private and public health care organizations in Renfrew County including pharmacies, laboratories, Community Care Access Centres, contracted service providers and all physician offices will be connected electronically.

Options is one of the key strategies to attract more high school students into the area of skilled trades and the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program.  Across Renfrew County, there are currently more than 500 registered apprentices compared to five years ago when there were only 320 registered.  This event receives support from many local organziations and also receives funding from the federal and provincial governments.

The project activities included: research and preparation of a draft report on the resource values, uses, management issues and other CHRS related considerations of the Ottawa River with recommendations on its suitability for inclusion in the CHRS.

It also identifies challenges and opportunities to ensure a sustainable high quality wood supply from private lands and provides a series of recommendations to influence sustainable forest management on private lands.

The study identified barriers and opportunities to expand local markets and marketing opportunities; and developed networks and tools that link agricultural producers and retail outlets, restaurants and direct customers.

It also evaluated the existing infrastructure, transportation, handling and processing systems to determine the infrastructure required to optimize the economic return to Renfrew County and Eastern Ontario producers.

The conference was held on October 4, 2005 at Calabogie Peaks Resort. The conference featured marketing professionals and government representatives who provided resources, tools, education, and training for rural businesses to be more successful and to generate dollars within the tourism industry.

C.L. Polk Forestry Consulting from Renfrew prepared the study which analyzes the greater catchment of Renfrew, Lanark and Frontenac Counties, along with the Bancroft/Mazinaw/Minden and Haliburton area.

The study identifies the type, source and volume of wood residual and low end wood fibres, along with identifying potential uses and markets.  It also aided in determining if the quality and quantity of the fibres warrant in establishing a related secondary manufacturing process.

This study generated significant interest in the forest industry both locally and from across the province.

To obtain a copy of this report please contact: djennings@bellnet.ca

Geocaching is a four-season, outdoor activity that combines the use of a recreational hand-held GPS unit with treasure hunting or searching for prizes at a hidden site, called a cache.  GPS Treasure Hunting brings more awareness of the great wealth of natural resources connected to the tourism industry.  It is a great way to learn about forest ecology, heritage and forestry.  There was an extra opportunity to win significant prizes and receive value added discounts and packages from tourism suppliers, retailers, and other community organizations adding to the fun of finding caches scattered throughout Eastern Ontario.  In January 2007, sixty-five prize winners were announced.

This project served to draw 2,500 geocachers/visitors to the area spending on average $100 per geocacher.  They were provided with information about specific points of interest (geographical, cultural and historical), which in turn may create another visit in the near future.

Communities benefit from visitors who search, see, learn and stay awhile.

Several opportunities for employers to get involved are:

• Career talks through school visits
• Mentorship or job shadowing; tours of local businesses
• Volunteer opportunities
• Co-operative education placements
• Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program placements

A database of 542 interested employers has been developed for Renfrew County high school co-op teachers. Employers are also recognized by their community for helping support education and economic development within Renfrew County.

The Building Sustainable Non-Profits in Renfrew County provide the group with the opportunity to:

• Network with other organizations in the same situation
• Find out what other communities are now doing in terms of building sustainability
• Gain insight into some of the training and resource materials developed specifically for non-profits
• Identify future training opportunities or strategies that could be developed in Renfrew County to enhance the sustainability and growth of the local non-profits.

The seminar also focused on recognizing the importance of employee’s actions, incorporate simple and effective stops taken by other companies, understanding Ontario’s electricity market and its effect on your bill, and monitoring and analyzing your energy use while qualifying savings.

Fifty-one beef cattle were delivered to the feedlot of Elam Weber on the Beachburg Road and these cattle came from eight different farms from across Renfrew County and are representative of a feed and finish demonstration organized by M&R Feeds.

The demonstration was designed to show Renfrew County producers how to add more value to their beef cattle right here in the County, rather than sending them to feedlots in south western Ontario and beyond. The project also organized a series of Monday Night Seminars designed to help and education our beef producers

The study included the feasibility to mobile abattoirs, transportation options or expanding certain facilities in areas of less service.

For an electronic copy of the Workbook please contact Dana Jennings at djennings@bellnet.ca or by calling 613.735.3951 ext. 226.

For all your renovation needs call Jim MacGregor today!

Located in Pembroke, Ontario the ideal place for anyone looking to get lost doing what they love most in the great outdoors. Only 20 minutes from the Whitewater of the Ottawa River, some of the best play boating in the world. Take a weekend to hike and camp through Algonquin Park and find yourself surrounded by trees, lakes and Mother Nature. Canoe the rivers and lakes of a number of routes in the Ottawa Valley. The opportunities are endless and that’s what we’re here for.

If you want to Get Lost…..I can tell you were to go! We can also provide you with the gear to get you lost and get you out. Whether you need a harness for climbing, a canoe or kayak, or a tent and sleeping bag you can find it here at “Go On and Get Lost”- Outdoor Adventure Gear.

The only way to truly find yourself…is to first “get lost”.

• Furnace, Fireplace, Air conditioning, Installation, Sales and Service
• Air duct cleaning, Indoor Air quality, Water treatment, Dryer Vent cleaning

4Wire Telecom Services Inc. should be your first choice if you have been searching for new, surplus or refurbished telcommunications/IT equipment without compromising reliability or expandability. 4Wire is the telecommunications solution for growing businesses that require big system features at a small system price. Our objective is to provide you with the best equipment at the best possible price (at times as much as 30%-75% off the cost of new equipment). However, we also offer highly competitive prices on new equipment as well.

• Furniture Technician Course;
• Certifications in insulated foundations/walls, hoisting and rigging and "Hilti" tools operation.

Servicing Pembroke, Petawawa and surrounding areas.

Often people reply that they are going to rely on word-of-mouth advertising. Starting a business in today’s competitive environment does not allow the successful entrepreneur to take a passive role in advertising their business.

Combined with traditional advertising (print ads, business cards, brochures, website, etc.) an active Word-of-Mouth campaign can increase the buzz about your company.

After doing some research it seems as if Word-of-Mouth marketing has turned into an art, some may say a science. Everybody talks about products or services, from a compliment on your new haircut or shoes, discussions about a new TV show or book, to showing friends your latest piece of technology.

There are a limited amount of word-of-mouth windows. Talk is generated when a new product and/or marketing campaign is introduced or changed. Word-of-Mouth reproduces in unpredictable ways, to different networks, demographics even communities.

People need a story to talk about. Just saying a product or service is great isn’t enough. They have to have their own experience that would make it interesting. Word-of-mouth bridges product knowledge, experience and marketing power.

The basic elements of Word-of-Mouth are: 

• Educate people about your product or service.
• Identify the people that are most likely to share their opinions.
• Equip people with tools that make it easier to share information.
• Observe how, where and when opinions are being exchanged.
• Listen to the feedback and comments being made.

Some ideas on how to create word-of-mouth: give clients coupons and guest cards, offer free samples accompanied by a User guide suggesting opportunities, times and activities to involve your product/service.

Create a Communication guide describing the history of the product or service, interesting facts about the design and/or entrepreneur. Give out promotion items such as a mouse pad, sticky notes, or other interesting items.

Word-of-mouth marketing is the oldest form of media, and combined with other advertising methods can be incredibly successful. Your job is to take another look at this topic, possibly create and implement a word-of-mouth marketing plan and become actively involved in creating a buzz about your company.

Article prepared by:

Janice Hollingworth

Business Development Officer

RCCFDC

No one likes to make the call to a client whose account is overdue – so how do you improve this process?

There are a number of ways you can encourage your clients to pay on time.

Make sure your invoice is easy to read. Your clients should be able to clearly see the total amount invoiced, any deposits, payments, interest and the balance owing. Make certain that the payment options are clear.

• Do you accept credit cards or cheques only?
• Who should clients make the cheque out to?
• Is your mailing address on the invoice?
• Include your phone number, in case a client has a question.

Provide incentives. Reward clients for paying early – everyone loves to get a deal. Include a small enticement (2% is common) for clients who will pay within 10 days.

Lose the 30/60/90 day columns. Using these columns might imply that your customer has the option of paying after 30 days. You should be very clear when the payment is due.

Draw attention to the amount owing. You could bold or mark in red, highlight or use an arrow to clearly indicate the balance due.

Article prepared by:

Janice Hollingworth

Business Development Officer

RCCFDC

Their moto is, “Whatever your business question, we can help!”

COBSC targets all business; if you are developing a concept, starting your business, growing or exiting the business world, you should take advantage of this excellent resource.

"Click"  The website allows the user to access oodles of information including business guides, online tools such as the Small Business Workshop, and upcoming events sponsored by the Federal and Provincial governments such as GST/PST seminars.

For existing businesses there are articles about Hiring Employees, Technology, Exporting, E-Business and many, many more. Discover the resources available for Aboriginal, Women and Youth Entrepreneurs. Use the search engine to find information on government grants for your business.

"Call"  If you would like to speak to an individual, call an Information Officer and they will be able to send you information to answer your specific question.

"Visit" the Renfrew County Community Futures Development Corporation office at 2 International Drive in Pembroke to view our business library and speak with one of our Small Business Consultants.

All information is available FREE of charge, in both official languages.

www.cbsc.org/ontario
1.800.567.2345 or 1.800.457.8466 (TTY)

www.rccfdc.org
1.888.225.8331 or 613.735.3951

Article prepared by: 

Janice Hollingworth

Business Development Officer

RCCFDC

It is common for sales professionals to think that their job is over once the sale has been made, but it is often just beginning. In today’s society people are given many purchasing options, from large retail stores to ordering online. The successful business owner realizes that in order to generate referrals and repeat customers they must do more in terms of customer service.

Customers are satisfied when they feel that they receive value for their money. Therefore, give them added value, such as free delivery, a price reduction or an added product or service. Give the client a discount on their next purchase; if they bring a friend, they may also receive the discount. Take a few minutes a week to follow up with your clients and make sure they are pleased with their purchase. If they are unhappy this allows you to address the situation before it becomes a bigger problem. Anticipate what the client might need from clothing accessories to help setting up electronic equipment.

The next time you make a sale, whether you offer a product or service, ask yourself how you can add value, go above and beyond the client’s expectations, anticipate future needs and how to get referrals from your customer.

Article prepared by:

Janice Hollingworth

Business Development Officer

RCCFDC