The latest news, events and client highlights from the WindsorEssex Small Business Centre.
Small Business Client Spotlight
Michael Difazio
Michael Difazio Reclaim Artistry

A Windsor woodworker is fashioning his own entrepreneurial path.

Michael Difazio, 24, started making window chalkboards and mirrors four years ago out of his mother's garage. The small business idea became  Michael Difazio Reclaim Artistry in 2013.


Clients in the News
Felcia Doucet_ owner of FAKEit
Windsor Star: Felicia Doucet from FAKEit! Spray Tan  and Beauty Bar

Felicia Doucet has seen a steady climb in sales since opening up a storefront operation in Windsor for her spray tanning business. 

Read more
Cedar Springs
Undergrowth: Cedar Springs 
Decks and Fences merges 
with Garlatti Landscaping

For Sal Costante, the merger of his company Cedar Springs Decks and Fences with Garlatti Landscaping is like a dream come true. "It's fantastic, it was always something I wanted," said the former auto engineer who started his own company in 2008.

Read more
A1 Courier Service
10 Years: The A1 Courier Service

People are pressed for time and want things done quickly - so area businesses have to keep up and provide fast and efficient services. 

At The A1 Courier Service, owner Rose McAuliffe and her team are proud to offer the community same-day courier services.

Read more
Upcoming Events

Basics of Starting a
Small Business

Date/Time


Do you have an idea and want to start your own  small  business, but you aren't sure where to start? Attend one of these free seminars to find out information about:
  • How to register your business
  • Business structure
  • Government support programs
  • Other available services and programs
You will receive a FREE Start-up Package and step-by-step guidance.

Friday, Nov. 6 - 9-10 a.m.

Monday, Nov. 9 - 10-11 a.m. 
(Leamington office)


Monday, Nov. 16 - 3-4 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 1 - 10-11 a.m.
(Essex office)

Basics of Writing a
Business Plan

Date/Time

A good  business  plan is your road map to success! A  business  plan is also required when applying for any type of  small   business  financing. Attend one of these free seminars to learn how to develop a  business  plan that will work for you! This session will cover:
  • Required elements of a business plan
  • Breaking down a business plan into manageable pieces
  • Where to gather relevant information for a business plan
  • How to professionally arrange your ideas and research
  • What to do with the plan when it's completed


Tuesday, Nov. 17 - 10-11 a.m.
(Essex office)



Tuesday, Dec. 15 - 10-11 a.m.
(Essex office)

Starter Company
Date/Time

Starter Company is an Ontario government program that provides people aged 18-29 with the resources and knowledge needed to start and grow their own business. The program includes one-on-one guidance from  the Small Business Centre, mentoring with local professionals, funding of up to $5,000 and access to the following workshops.

Don't qualify for Starter Company? Missed the application deadline? Our workshops are  free and open to the public. S ign up today!

Banking 101
Thursday, Nov. 5 - 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Creating a Business Pitch
Thursday, Nov. 12 - 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Human Resources Workshop
Thursday, Nov. 19 - 9 a.m.-12 p.m.



Workshops
Date/Time

Sales and Marketing


Managing Your Cash Flow


Thursday, Dec. 3 - 10-11 a.m.
(Essex office)
Advance online registration required for all events.
Past Events
Small Biz-Big  Buzz Expo celebrating Small Business Month

More than 40 local and diverse small businesses promoted their products and services to over 400 people on Oct. 22 at Water's Edge Event Centre.  Local food was offered by Mezzo Ristorante & Lounge and Carrots N' Dates, along with drinks from three Essex wineries and beer from Craft Heads Brewing Company. Live entertainment by songwriter Crissi Cochrane and demonstrations by small business vendors added excitement to the evening.

See more Expo  Photos!

WindsorEssex Small Business Centre | 519-253-6900 | Email  | Website
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