BizLaunch is a company that offers consulting services to small businesses. Its two founders have launched a combined 17 companies over their careers; not bad considering most people have trouble launching and managing even one.
It uses an extremely creative way to market itself to prospective clients: its free BizLaunch seminars. Several times a month, in various cities around the country, it offers workshops on issues of importance to entrepreneurs. Read more »
For four days next week at the Complexe Desjardins in Montreal, people can take advantage of free personal legal advice. The individual consultations are part of the Montreal Bar’s annual Visez Droit event and will be available Monday to Thursday from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. People are asked to bring along with them any legal documents that are relevant to their inquiries. The same event in 2008 attracted more than 1,000 people.
HP Canada has a great new offer to help out small businesses looking to invest in technology. There are two variations: the 0%, 12-month promotion plan allows small businesses to purchase their equipment for $1 at the end of the term. Alternatively, they can opt for the 0%, 30-month lease plan, which gives them a fair market value purchase option at the end of the term.
Both offers allow the financing of products between $5,000 and $150,000, and are available until April 30, 2009. The minimum amount is a bit annoying, but it’s still a good deal. As well, the promotion targets ‘established’ small businesses so start ups might not necessarily be eligible (though it doesn’t hurt to try). For more information, check out their site.
A recent survey by Visa revealed that 41% of small businesses surveyed believed they wouldn’t be targeted by hackers and data thieves due to their small size. A surprising 24% didn’t know where to obtain information on how to secure their business and 52% never sought information on how to secure their data.
All these facts in light of a recent warning by the Competition Bureau that fraudulent activity tends to increase during recessions. Small and medium sized businesses are especially vulnerable since they tend to be more aggressive in cost cutting measures in an economic downturn.
Don’t take security lightly. Whether it means changing your passwords or encrypting your data, do what you can to protect your business, even if it means spending a few extra dollars. It will pay off in the long run.