“Take the risk, measure the potential. Surround yourself with mentors, talk about your ideas with the right people (protect your ideas as well), read books to better yourselves or (even better) talk with seasoned entrepreneurs to overcome your obstacles... behind every obstacle, there is a chance to innovate and impress your clients!”

“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 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”

“Looking back on my first start-up venture, I wish I had the chance to integrate with other entrepreneurs and build an entrepreneurial community earlier. I can’t say enough about surrounding yourself with support. Having people around you who are going through the same thing is critical to survive the rollercoaster of start-up life.”

“Seeking out support services like Futurpreneur or family and friends I believe is key. Having resources to assist you is probably the most important part of taking that first initial leap. Not only will you need help in the first stages ie. business planning, financial support, but having a support network to discuss ideas or get advice from is crucial. ”

“Prepare - you'll need the financial resources to see yourself through the launch of your business. You can save, find financing or start your business part-time in order to build up revenue so that you can start drawing an income. Talk to lots of potential customers before taking the leap. It's critical to understand the value your customer is really paying you get started. ”

“Being a mentor is a really rewarding experience and I urge people to consider becoming one. I have become a better manager and achieved better business results because of Futurpreneur Canada. I never expected to gain so much for being a mentor. I thought I was going to do the giving. Being a Futurpreneur Canada is one of the smartest things I have ever done!”

“A mentor is a guide. Every human being has some quality or qualities that make them special. It is with this knowledge and cultivation that they can acquire the self-knowledge and self-confidence to succeed. A little of your guidance and time can go a long way. ”

“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.”