Starting a small business is both exciting and intimidating. In addition to assuming several roles as an entrepreneur, there’s a lot to consider when taking a great idea and turning it into a profit – a business plan, financing, the perfect location, and the permits and licensing that may be required.
Anastasia is a new Canadian and decided to register in the 300-hour, 10-week intensive Build Your Business – Newcomers Entrepreneur Program through the Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS). The CCIS provides settlement and integration services to all immigrants and refugees in southern Alberta and the Build Your Business program offers knowledge, tools, and support to help newcomers successfully launch a small business.
“After Covid, and then having a baby, I knew I just needed to do something,” says Anastasia. “And then, the answer was in my email. I got an email from the CCIS about the Build Your Business program and I registered for the very first cohort. I know a lot about my craft, but because I wanted to open a business in Calgary where I know nobody, I know nothing about the local rules, regulations and laws, I was super confused and intimidated. I would have never been able to open anything without this course.”
As part of CCIS’s Build Your Business program, The City of Calgary, through the Business Experience Representative Team, participated in a session to share valuable information about business licensing in Calgary. A specialized Business Experience Representative Team launched in May 2022 as a one-stop shop for business applicants. The team works with local entrepreneurs who are interested in opening a restaurant, brewery, or urban agriculture business, but representatives are also available to provide information and outreach to groups like CCIS. Business Experience Reps guide applicants through the entire licensing process, creating faster and more predictable outcomes.
In just under a month, Anastasia launched her beauty business Anastasia Evans Nail Studio and set up a location on Calgary’s popular 17 Avenue SW. Read more of her story at calgary.ca/BetterEveryDay.
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