Innovation Factory (iF) is a Hamilton, Ontario-based Regional Innovation Centre (RIC) that provides startup resources, programming, and mentorship to early-stage companies. Since 2011, it’s helped innovators commercialize their ideas and reach the next level of success while also supporting a more collaborative business community. As a member of the Ontario Network of Entrepreneurs (ONE), Innovation…
Canada has a strong reputation as a valued trading partner and 2019 is posed to be a notable year for Canadian exporters. More businesses will seize the chance to grow and expand into new markets and drive higher global revenues. While there are significant opportunities available to businesses going global, such as vast marketplaces and…
The Government of Canada is invested in agriculture and agri-food innovation, and for good reason. With thousands of businesses engaged in the production of food from coast to coast, staying ahead of challenges and providing new competitive advantages positively impacts the success and well-being of farmers, food manufacturers, and all Canadians. One of the main…
British Columbia businesses can apply for several types of government funding programs aimed at fueling competitiveness. This includes funding to offset the costs of business and market expansion, capital and technology adoption, research and development, and workforce development projects. While some of these government funding programs are provided federally, those funding programs created and administered…
Targeted hiring and training programs can help Canadian companies scale operations and reduce talent gaps. But despite the clear benefits of workforce development, few companies allocate enough capital for attracting and nurturing world-class talent. Fortunately, businesses can learn more about Canadian and Ontario government funding for workforce development by attending an upcoming event. During the…
Social media marketing is one of the easiest and least financially-demanding strategies your company can use to support sales internationally. Developing a reputable, engaging brand on social sites will funnel traffic to your website and promote sustainable growth in foreign markets. If you have physical operations within the country, it can also help to bring…
![[EVENT] Jan 22, 2019: Government Funding & Equipment Financing Solutions](https://www.mentorworks.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/bigstock-Business-Man-Financial-Inspect-172266968-1.jpg)
To overcome growth challenges, businesses should consider using a combination of equity, bank financing, and government funding. Each source of investment capital supports aggressive but sustainable growth plans and enables companies to act on emerging market opportunities. Fortunately, GTA-based businesses can learn more about Canadian and Ontario government funding by attending an upcoming financing solutions…
Leadership in business requires a trio of qualities: character, competence, and commitment. This is why excellent employees do not always transition to become good managers; while they may be competent and perform job duties to a high standard, their character qualities prevent them from excelling when managing or working with others. Businesses traditionally focus on…
Ontario agricultural producers and processors can benefit greatly by staying up-to-date with industry news. Yet for many agri-businesses, it’s difficult to find resources and publications that help inform growth strategies and improve competitiveness. While there’s no one definitive source of information for Ontario businesses, there are several sites that provide access to free, high-quality information…
For many businesses, entering a new market is a risky, time consuming, costly, and stressful endeavor. While businesses that already export can benefit from previous experience, existing processes, and internal know-how when entering a new market, there are still many risks in export expansion. Risk is amplified for businesses entering their first export market. While…