MP Recognizes Small Business

Visiting politicians and businesses throughout the region gathered at Community Futures Peace Liard to celebrate Small Business Week. MP Jay Hill met and talked to businesses who started their businesses through the help of Community Futures. Business owners also got up and talked about their businesses and how far they have come. All were grateful for the funds that are offered through Western Economic Diversification for loans and benefits provided by Service Canada for business start-ups.

SE Program

Over 800 New Business Startups through the Self Employment Program

Community Futures Peace Liard has assisted over 800 business startups since it’s inception in 1988. Service Canada has provided funding for this program to assist people who are on unemployment insurance presently or in the past 3 years or maternity leave in the past five years.

Entrepreneurs who choose this option can continue to receive their EI benefit for 52 weeks while working in their first year of business. While under contract with Service Canada and Community Futures they not be penalized for the revenues they earned.

Participants must meet all the criteria and not presently be in business. There are many local success stories in all your communities in the Northeast.

CHANGE YOUR LIFE, ON YOUR OWN TERMS
By Carolyn Golightly

What do you do when you have an entrepreneurial desire, two teenage daughters and very little clothing selection in a small town?

You launch your own clothing store.

One year ago Laurie Wallington had the idea to open a casual clothing store in Chetwynd, BC. With the help of Community Futures, Laurie opened the doors of Laurie’s Casual Wear only six months later, on September 4, 2008.

She says, “I needed to start something. So I looked at what was needed…I did a survey, talked to the business community, and the Economic Development Officer.” Laurie’s research indicated that a third clothing store would be supported by the community; however, Laurie’s husband faced layoff after 23 years at Canfor.

She was eligible as a Self-Employment client and, as such, received assistance with business start-up and planning while collecting EI income until the business could generate an income of its own.

“It’s gone extremely well. The hardest part was finding suppliers; it took a lot of perseverance but I found good suppliers, and I hand select my stock.” Stock that includes work and casual wear for men, women and children, and features brand names like Caterpillar. After years of service in the restaurant industry, Laurie says she enjoys the change of pace and the benefits of being a business woman, not the least of which is better hours and more time with her family.

“I accomplished a goal. And I’m in control of my job.”

Laurie Wallington reached her goal and improved her life in only six months. We congratulate Laurie and her family. It is this indomitable human spirit that Community Futures aims to support with its Self Employment and Loans programs.MP Recognizes Small Business