Destination Business Program Approved for ROF 2.0 Funding, Set to Launch in October 2023 in Saskatchewan and Manitoba
[Outlook, Saskatchewan, September 19, 2023] – Community Futures Mid-Sask is thrilled to announce that the highly anticipated Destination Business Program has received approval for the Rural Opportunity Fund (ROF) 2.0 funding and will be delivering courses as soon as October 2023. This innovative program is poised to transform small businesses into thriving destinations, helping entrepreneurs discover their company’s unique qualities and enabling them to stand out in the marketplace.
The Destination Business Program is set to roll out over the next two years in the provinces of Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Its primary objective is to empower small business owners by providing them with the tools and knowledge necessary to position themselves as compelling destinations within their respective industries and regions.
What Business Owners Are Saying
Hannah Hannah, the owner of The High Maintenance Hippie in Warman, Saskatchewan, shared her experience with the program, saying, "One of the main things that I learned while taking this course was positioning my business as a destination, with a bonus that I got to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs – I loved collaborating with them in an intimate network."
Lilah McIvor, the General Manager of Community Futures (CF) Mid-Sask, emphasized the significance of this program for entrepreneurs in rural regions, stating, "Entrepreneurs know about Community Futures because of the great lending program and advisory services we provide to rural businesses. This Destination Business Program is one of those important services we're now making available to entrepreneurs in both Saskatchewan and Manitoba, due to the support received from the Rural Opportunity Fund. We’ve heard from business owners and know that inflation, debt-load and changes beyond their control have been huge worries. By participating in the Destination Business Program, entrepreneurs can take back some control, learn how to expand their company's market beyond the local region and boost their bottom line. Becoming a destination business can make a big impact on a small business."
Join the Destination Business Program
The Destination Business Program offers a comprehensive approach to help businesses become sought-after destinations. Participants will:
- Learn the Fundamentals: By enrolling in the Destination Creation Course to understand the core principles of becoming a destination business.
- Deep Dive into Game-Changing Business Topics: By attending monthly Connector Series sessions to explore transformative and trending business issues.
- Access One-on-One Guidance: By meeting with a Destination Coach to receive personalized assistance and insights, after completing the course.
- Build a Powerful Network: By collaborating with other like-minded destination business owners that have also taken part in the Destination Business Program.
This Program promises to equip business owners with the knowledge and resources needed to showcase their company's uniqueness and stand out in the crowded marketplace. Entrepreneurs in Saskatchewan and Manitoba are encouraged to find out more about this innovative learning opportunity. For more information and to register for the Destination Business Program, please visit https://destinationbusiness.ca
About Community Futures
Community Futures (CF) offices can be found across rural Canada. CFs assist rural businesses to start and grow their operations. Services include business financing, business coaching and advisory services. They also work within their communities to provide community economic development support and strategic planning assistance.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Lilah McIvor, General Manager
Community Futures Mid-Sask, Outlook SK
306-962-7419
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