Young entrepreneurs invited to Vancouver talks

Young entrepreneurs invited to Vancouver talks

byline: Michael Mui

An organization that assists young entrepreneurs with start-up cash is hosting a series of “coffee shop” talks to help prevent common rookie mistakes.

Canadian Youth Business Foundation B.C. director Jill Earthy said on Tuesday many youngsters trying to start their own businesses have great ideas, but often don’t know where to begin.

“A common mistake may be growing too fast without having a plan and taking on too much, trying to be all things to all people,” she said.

Earthy said more important considerations include whether the idea would be appealing to customers, and how to reach those customers.

Workshops are being held on Jan. 8, 14, 23 and 27. The first workshop starts at 11 a.m. at the Mink Café in downtown Vancouver.

Ben Cappellacci, a recent university graduate who founded New District after receiving a $15,000 start-up loan from CYBF, said the help he’s received has been invaluable.

The 24-year-old is about to launch his start-up that would provide an online “marketplace” to connect buyers directly with wineries and distilleries — many of whom are small and can’t place their products in traditional liquor stores.

He’ll be one of three experts at the table for the first talk.

“I think one of the biggest tips would be to get out there, there are so many great resources in Vancouver, start-up weekends, meet-up groups … even if you don’t know what to do, getting out there can get you in the right process.”

 

24 hrs Vancouver | Vancouver, British Columbia