“Be ready for sweat and tears! You have to be ready to work non-stop, to be constantly challenged, to spend a considerable amount of your own money, and to be insanely resilient against failures that you will face on a daily basis. But, even with all that in mind, we have no regrets about starting this adventure – it challenges us and makes us happy every day.”

“My mentor has been instrumental in helping me create a brand for my business. She has been a great sounding board as I build the image of my company, offering helpful and actionable advice when I’m working out marketing ideas. My business is a little difficult to describe and she helps me break it down into workable pieces”

“At the time of accepting the role, I did not realize how much I would be gaining in the process. I have also been learning all along. This is a new business model for me, therefore,I am often stretching myself to learn new skills or information because I am being asked things that I do not yet know myself. So far, there has been nothing left unanswered, so we are both learning in this process. ”

“Get prepared, make sure your timing and funding is right, and go for it! If you are passionate about what you do, it will never feel like work, but make sure you take your time and plan for success.”

“My mentor, Kevin’s realistic and enthusiastic outlook gives me the confidence and knowledge I need throughout the ups and downs of starting and running a business. His expertise, connections and experience are powerful resources that are preventing me from learning everything the hard way.”

“My mentor Charlotte was able to give me points of view I did not always consider when faced with challenges. Her motivation in her own business inspired me.”

“Focus on sales first. A good entrepreneurial friend once told me that “sales saves all sins”, and was she ever right.”

“Know your market. A business plan isn’t just for the banks! A lot of time should be taken researching your business. Support is offered by many levels of government and private organizations to help you. Also, consider co-working. If you’re on your own and can join a community like HUB and CSI, the benefits are considerable. Get involved and meet fellow entrepreneurs and organizations big and small to share business ideas and find opportunities to help each other grow.”

“The days that I have mentored (Janine) have turned out to be a gift, because I am able to be part of the positive process of creating her dream. (Mentoring) is a reciprocally beneficial experience. Both parties will undoubtedly grow from the experience. ”