Do you have an idea, talent or hobby that could earn you money?
Starting a business requires a lot of time, patience and effort and can often be challenging to know where to begin, especially if you’re a newcomer woman who is learning how to navigate the Canadian marketplace. At WoodGreen, we help newcomer women explore entrepreneurship and their own small business ideas step by step and with one-on-one support.
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Reham Teama mentors newcomer women on how to start their own businesses.[/caption]
So, you have a business idea in mind. Now, what’s next?
Here are 5 tips on starting a business in Canada from a former newcomer and one of WoodGreen’s resident entrepreneurs, Reham Teama.
1. Gather information about entrepreneurship
Before you can start a business, you’ll need to do some research and gather information about entrepreneurship and understand how it works in the Canadian business workplace. Although you can find lots of information online, it might be helpful to see if there are any local community organizations nearby that offer entrepreneurship programs or workshops you can attend to learn more about starting a business in Canada.
2. Familiarize yourself with business planning and what it means for your business idea
All business ideas require a strategic plan to make them successful and profitable. No matter what type of business you’re offering, you’ll need to draft an action plan for your idea, including:
- What are your business goals?
- What is the current state of your business?
- What are the current industry trends?
- What is your competition doing?
Answering these questions during the business planning process will help you strategize and narrow down the appropriate steps you need to take to start your business, while also modifying it according to the Canadian environment.
3. Start networking
One of the most crucial parts of starting a business is being able to network and communicate with all kinds of people. Despite one of the main goals of an entrepreneur is selling products or services to customers, achieving this requires the ability to connect with people. Here are some ways for you to get started:
- Attend networking events
- Join a club or group in-person or online (via Facebook groups) with other like-minded individuals who have similar interests as you
- Build a social presence on social media as a way to introduce your business (via LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook)
4. Find a mentor
It’s helpful to find someone who has similar experiences as you, especially in the realm of business and entrepreneurship. Having a mentor you can look up to or help guide you on this journey is encouraging because you won’t feel like you’re overcoming the obstacles alone. Mentorship programs like TRIEC Mentoring Partnership, or Women in Biz Network are great places for those interested in finding a mentor in entrepreneurship.
Doing so can potentially open new doors and opportunities for you to grow your business and expand your professional network.
5. Step outside of your comfort zone and try new things
Be adventurous and take the risk of connecting with people from other industries who can give you new ideas and perspectives that could help you expand your business ideas further. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or make mistakes! Like any other career or field, you’ll never learn or gain experience if you don’t try something new. Be adaptable and open to change.
The path to entrepreneurship is not an easy one, but with the right tools, resources, supports, and connections, WoodGreen can help turn your small business ideas into a reality.
Are you a newcomer woman who is interested in learning entrepreneurial skills to start a business? Learn more about WoodGreen’s Newcomer Women’s Entrepreneurship Program (including eligibility) here.
