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How to start a small business and set it up for success
By Accountant Calgary
Starting a small business can be a rewarding journey, but it requires careful planning and the right strategies to succeed. From creating a solid business plan to organizing finances and finding the right support, this guide will help you establish a foundation for a thriving business. For entrepreneurs in Calgary, key resources like reliable bookkeeping services can make a significant difference. Here’s how to start a small business and set it up for lasting success. Developing a business plan A clear, well-researched business plan serves as a roadmap for your business. It outlines your goals, target market, competitive advantage, and financial projections. This plan will also help attract investors or secure loans. To create an effective business plan: Define your mission and vision: Explain why your business exists and what you aim to achieve. Identify your target audience: Determine who your customers are and what problems your business will solve for them. Analyze competitors: Study your competitors to understand what they offer and find ways to differentiate your business. Set realistic financial projections: Estimate costs, revenue, and profits. This will give potential investors confidence in your business. Choosing a business structure Selecting the right business structure is essential, as it affects your taxes, liability, and daily operations. Common options include: Sole proprietorship: Simple to set up, with minimal paperwork, but offers no separation of personal and business liability. Partnership: Ideal for two or more owners, allowing shared responsibilities, but partners share liabilities. Corporation: Provides liability protection, but involves more paperwork and regulatory requirements. LLC (Limited Liability Company): Offers liability protection without the complexity of a corporation. Choose a structure that best suits your needs, and consult a legal professional to ensure compliance with Calgary’s business regulations. Securing funding Most small businesses require some level of funding to get started. Consider various financing options to find the best fit: Personal savings or family support: Often the first source of funding for many entrepreneurs. Business loans: Many banks offer small business loans with varying interest rates. Grants and government programs: Explore government grants and programs specifically designed to support small businesses in Calgary. Angel investors or venture capital: For businesses with high growth potential, attracting investors may be an option. Registering your business To operate legally, you’ll need to register your business. This process involves choosing a unique name, filing the necessary documents, and obtaining a business license in Calgary. You may also need specific permits depending on your industry. Completing these steps ensures that your business complies with all local regulations. Organizing your finances Managing finances effectively is crucial for any small business. Accurate bookkeeping keeps your business organized, tracks income and expenses, and prepares you for tax season. Many small businesses in Calgary choose to hire a bookkeeper in Calgary to handle these responsibilities, allowing owners to focus on growth. Working with one of the best bookkeeping services in Calgary can provide: Accurate financial records: Professional bookkeepers help maintain up-to-date records, which is essential for financial health. Compliance with tax laws: Calgary’s best bookkeeping services are familiar with local tax regulations, ensuring that you file correctly and on time. Insights for decision-making: With accurate records, you can make informed decisions on budgeting, spending, and investments. Creating a strong brand identity Building a brand that resonates with your target audience is essential. Your brand identity includes your business name, logo, colors, and messaging, as well as the experience you offer customers. Developing a consistent brand identity sets you apart from competitors and builds trust with customers. Here are some steps to create a strong brand identity: Design a logo and visual theme: Choose a professional logo, color scheme, and design elements that reflect your brand’s personality. Develop a unique brand voice: Whether it’s friendly, professional, or playful, keep your brand voice consistent in all communications. Focus on customer experience: Aim to provide exceptional service that keeps customers coming back and sharing their positive experiences. Building an online presence In today’s digital world, an online presence is crucial for reaching potential customers. Start by creating a professional website where customers can learn more about your products or services. Next, consider establishing a presence on social media platforms that suit your audience. Key components of a strong online presence include: User-friendly website: Make sure your website is easy to navigate, mobile-friendly, and includes essential information about your business. Social media profiles: Engage with customers and share updates on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn. Google My Business: Setting up a Google My Business profile helps customers in Calgary find you more easily. Building a support network Running a small business can be challenging, and having a network of support is invaluable. Surround yourself with people who can provide advice, resources, and encouragement. Consider these ways to build a support network: Join local business associations: Groups like the Calgary Chamber of Commerce offer networking opportunities, resources, and workshops. Seek mentorship: Experienced business owners can offer guidance and insights that help you avoid common pitfalls. Hire professionals for specialized tasks: For financial and legal matters, work with professionals like accountants, lawyers, and bookkeepers. Tracking progress and making adjustments As your business grows, it’s essential to review your progress and adjust your strategies. Regularly assessing financial performance, customer feedback, and market trends can help you refine your approach and stay competitive. Working with one of the best bookkeeping services in Calgary can make tracking your financial performance much easier, giving you insight into profit margins, cash flow, and budgeting. Consider these strategies for tracking progress: Set measurable goals: Establish specific goals for growth, such as revenue targets or customer acquisition numbers. Analyze performance data: Use financial statements, sales reports, and customer feedback to assess performance. Stay flexible: Be willing to make changes to products, services, or marketing strategies if they aren’t meeting customer needs. Conclusion Starting a small business takes effort, planning, and ongoing management. By creating a solid business plan, organizing your finances, and developing a strong brand, you can set your business up for success. In Calgary, many new business owners choose to hire a bookkeeper in Calgary to ensure accurate financial management and stay compliant with local regulations. Taking advantage of the best bookkeeping services in Calgary can free up your time, allowing you to focus on growing your business and achieving long-term success. With dedication and the right strategies, your small business can thrive in today’s competitive market.
HACCP Trainer - On site Level 3 HACCP Training - Nationwide
By Kitchen Tonic Training Company and Food Safety Consultants
HACCP Trainer. on site delivery nationwide
HACCP Documentation Services - Food Safety Consultants
By Kitchen Tonic Training Company and Food Safety Consultants
We write HACCP Plans and HACCP Documents
Tackling Financial Corruption
By Global Risk Alliance Ltd
This course will provide delegates involved in tackling the financial underpinning of corrupt behaviour with the knowledge, concepts and practices necessary to understand and mitigate illicit financial flows.
Online Options
Show all 7143Health & Safety Awareness (for Green CSCS)
By SMC Safety Solutions
This one-day course is a must for anyone considering or already working within a construction or civil engineering environment. This course provides Health and Safety awareness and is endorsed by Build UK as a standard training for all operatives on site. Aims To give a clear understanding of Regulations & Legislation that applies to construction work and is an ideal refresher for any operative that has previously completed training in Health & Safety. Course Content • Accident prevention • Health & Safety law • Control and management of the site and your how your role fits in with this • Risk assessments and method statements • Performing safely on site • Reporting unsafe acts to prevent an accident • Individual & employee responsibilities • What to do if you think anyone’s Health and Safety is being put at risk Assessment At the end of this course, all delegates will have a clear understanding of the requirements of Health and Safety Legislation and their responsibilities to comply with them. Candidates will need to complete a multiple-choice exam at the end of the CITB course. They will also need to engage and interact with others throughout the day. Certificate This certification for this course is valid for 5 years and is endorsed by Build UK as a standard training for all operatives. The certificate is part of CSCS Green Card requirements. To remain certified in this area, you will need to retake the course before the expiry date or have completed an NVQ2 or higher in your skills set. Instructions Please note all Health & Safety Awareness courses with the venue “Remote Learning” will be delivered by a tutor over a video call. This training will be delivered and assessed in English language; therefore, a good standard is required to complete the course. Further attendee information will be sent in a separate email, please check your inbox.
Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Training For Support Staff Course
By DG Legal
In January 2024 alone, reports were published about the SRA taking enforcement action against 3 firms and 4 individuals for failure to comply with the Money Laundering Regulations 2017. The fines issued for these non-compliances total over £570,000 plus costs. The absence of staff training, or requirement to complete additional training, was noted in a number of these cases. Action has not only been taken against solicitors, but also other individuals who are not regulated by the SRA, whose breaches were so serious that the SRA felt compelled to take action. As all SRA enforcement action, from rebukes to fines, is published by the SRA, the potential financial and reputational impact upon firms may be felt by all staff, regardless of whether they had any direct involvement with the non-compliance. This course will cover the following to assist support staff in understanding the fundamental aspects of AML. The basics of what AML is In scope / not in scope work for AML POCA / TA PCPs - CDD & EDD Clients Risks – what could raise a risk? Reporting to the MLRO / MLCO Tipping off Target Audience The online course is suitable for support staff or legal practitioners wanting to understand the basics of AML. Resources Comprehensive and up to date course notes will be provided to all delegates which may be useful for ongoing reference or cascade training. Please note a recording of the course will not be made available. Speaker Helen Torresi, Consultant, DG Legal Helen is a qualified solicitor with a diverse professional background spanning leadership roles in both the legal and tech/corporate sectors. Throughout her career, she has held key positions such as COLP, HOLP, MLCO, MLRO and DPO for law firms and various regulated businesses and services. Helen’s specialised areas encompass AML, complaint and firm negligence handling, DPA compliance, file review and auditing, law management, and operational effectiveness in law firms, particularly in conveyancing (CQS).
Driver CPC - 1 Day Periodic 7 Hour Course - The Compliant Driver / Trailer Checks and 3rd Party Trailers - ONLINE
By Total Compliance
Driver CPC - 1 Day Periodic 7 Hour Course The Compliant Driver / Trailer Checks and 3rd Party Trailers Join our online course from Total Compliance, designed to build your expertise in being a compliant driver and conducting essential trailer check. Driver Compliance: Understanding the responsibilities and legal requirements for maintaining compliance on the road. Trailer Checks: Conducting thorough pre-use and post-use trailer inspections to ensure safety and efficiency. 3rd Party Trailers: Best practices for managing and operating third-party trailers, including checks, handling procedures, and risk mitigation. Don't miss out on this opportunity to improve your driving practices! Please review our Terms and Conditions for more information.
FORS Lo-City Driving & Highway Code - Periodic 7 Hour CPC Course
By Total Compliance
Registration starts at 7:30 AM. The training will begin promptly at 8:00 AM. Please plan your arrival accordingly to ensure you don't miss any important information. Reduce Emissions, Save Costs, Earn a CPC Hours, and Ensure Full Compliance Topics Covered: FORS Lo-CITY Driver Training (3.5 hours): • Relationship between driving style, fuel consumption, and environmental impact • Benefits of regular vehicle maintenance and checks • Fuel-efficient driving techniques • Utilising in-vehicle technology for fuel economy • Benefits of journey planning • Alternative fuels for commercial vehicles Highway Code Training Content: Course introduction, objectives, and expectations. Introduction to the Highway Code and its relevance. Types of road users and training for various groups. Respecting and understanding the risks to different road user categories. Confirmation of knowledge quizzes covering all aspects of the Highway Code and traffic regulations. Course Details: Format: Remote Session (7 hours) CPC Hours: Yes Cost: £89.50 - Includes course fee, Driver CPC Upload fee, VAT This award-winning program (awarded the prestigious Education in Transport award at the 2017 National Courier Awards) is perfect for any fleet operator looking to: Meet FORS Gold accreditation requirements. Improve driver performance and fuel efficiency. Reduce their environmental footprint. Enhance corporate social responsibility. Please note that this course is delivered online and provides 7 hours of Driver CPC training. Ready to get started? Book online or feel free to contact our training department at training@totalcompliance.co.uk or call 0345 9001312 to register for this valuable course. Please review our Terms and Conditions for more information.
Oil refinery operations fundamentals ( Crude distillation )
By Genesis oil & gas field development Ltd
oil refinery operations fundamentals
Cosmic Sisterhood of the Rose Series - Christos Sophia Codes
By Katarina Heuser
Discover your special powers, receive insights and deep healing together with an abundance of light codes taking your life to the next level!
Driver CPC - 1 Day Periodic 7 Hour Course/ Dangerous Goods Awareness & Working at Height
By Total Compliance
Driver CPC - 1 Day Periodic 7 Hour Course Dangerous Awareness Course: - Identify the regulations governing safe transport of dangerous goods - Understand your role and responsibilities within the logistics supply chain - Master the principles of packing and transporting dangerous goods - Manage training requirements within your organisation - Comply with legal obligations - Demonstrate a strong commitment to safety and compliance 2. Working at Height Training: Gain knowledge on how to work safely at height, understand the risks involved, and learn how to use the appropriate safety equipment to prevent accidents. Driver CPC Periodic Training: Complete 7 hours of mandatory training to count towards your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) periodic requirement, helping you stay compliant and up to date with industry standards. Register now for this valuable training! Please review our Terms and Conditions for more information.
The UK's first and only Level 4 qualification in Phlebotomy (equivalent to Ireland Level 6) FDSc (Foundation Degree Level) qualification Nationally Recognised certificate Dually accredited: Open College Network and CPD Covers both aspirated and evacuated systems Covers specialised blood collection systems & methods Classroom or Virtual Classroom learning options Comprehensive Training Kit is provided when booking our Virtual Classroom option (yours to keep) Complete your training from beginner to advanced level This course either follows on from our Introduction to Phlebotomy Course or can be combined with our introductory course as part of a course package (see below) Available to candidates who have completed (or are currently enrolled to complete) our Introduction to Phlebotomy Course or have previous phlebotomy practical experience.
THIS COURSE PACKAGE INCLUDES: 1: PERIPHERAL I.V. CANNULATION - IV THERAPIES COURSE (GPT008) 2: VACCINATION / INJECTION COURSE (GPT601) Learn how to administer injectables and intravenous therapies ... FAST-TRACK YOUR AESTHETICS TRAINING WITH OUR COMPLETE TRAINING PACKAGE 20% Multi-Course Discount Cover all stages from Level 1 through to Level 4 (FDSc) Cover your theory training online Complete your advanced practical training in 1 day Practical training in Classroom or Virtual Classroom Comprehensive Practise@Home training kits for VC Awards 2 accredited qualifications Dual Accreditations for all courses Covers all steps required to safely perform injectables Covers all steps required to safely perform IV therapies Practise IV on artificial arm with fake blood Practise injection techniques on realistic injection pads Learn beginner to advanced skills and techniques Basic understanding of English language required OPEN TO ALL APPLICANTS
SOLD OUT! 20th March Clare Wallace #Agent121. Looking for: PICTURE BOOKS, MG, YA, ADULT FICTION
(1)By I Am In Print
LOOKING FOR: PICTURE BOOKS, MG, YA, ADULT FICTION Clare Wallace joined the Darley Anderson Agency in January 2011 and is building both the Darley Anderson Children’s Agency and the Darley Anderson Illustration Agency lists as well as taking on adult fiction for debut authors. Clare is particularly looking for funny chapter books for younger readers at the moment, as well as contemporary MG, YA fantasy, romance, and rom coms, especially with underrepresented protagonists. For picture books she has the widest taste, from daft to lyrical, rhyming to prose. As well as being busy with the children’s and illustration agencies, Clare is open to debut adult fiction submissions that could be described as book club, rom-com, romance, saga, reading group, fantasy or historical fiction. She often doesn’t know what she’s looking for until she finds it (although she is not the person for steampunk or space opera). She represents picture books, middle-grade, teenage and YA and debut adult fiction. The clients Clare represents include Perdita & Honor Cargill, Caroline Crowe, Tom Ellen, Martyn Ford, Stewart Foster, Olivia Hope, A M Howell, Polly Ho-Yen, Rachel Ip, Beth Reekles, J.P. Rose, Lindsay Galvin, Dave Rudden, Deirdre Sullivan and Efua Traoré. Whatever the age range, Clare loves a big hook, a lot of heart, and a standout voice. She loves to discover memorable new characters, bold and unique voices, strong concepts and gripping storytelling. This list gives a good indication of Clare's taste but if your submission doesn’t fit a description here, it doesn’t mean Clare doesn’t want to receive it. Clare would like you to send a covering letter, a one page synopsis and the first three chapters (Max 5000 words) of your manuscript in a single word document. For picture books, please submit a covering letter and up to three completed texts. Please send EITHER picture books OR another genre, not both in one submission. (In addition to the paid sessions, Clare is kindly offering one free session for low income/underrepresented writers. Please email agent121@iaminprint.co.uk to apply, outlining your case for this option which is offered at the discretion of I Am In Print). By booking you understand you need to conduct an internet connection test with I Am In Print prior to the event. You also agree to email your material in one document to reach I Am In Print by the stated submission deadline and note that I Am In Print take no responsibility for the advice received during your agent meeting. The submission deadline is: Thursday 13th March 2025
