Community Futures North Okanagan – Community Futures North Okanagan

‘Take flight’: REACH ag program returns after successful first year

September 22, 2021/0 Comments/in News /by Natalie Appleton

When a group of North Okanagan agricultural entrepreneurs joined together last fall, many felt like their business had hit an impassable roadblock.

Lost farmgate sales, COVID-19, and marketing efforts that weren’t seeing a return led eight small business owners to the REACH agricultural business accelerator program. Through Community Futures North Okanagan, the participants gained access to the tools and support they needed to scale up and succeed.

“The REACH program put real data onto what I was doing instead of going on intuition,” says Doug Gordon, Owner and Beekeeper of The Okanagan Honey Co. “You don’t know. You might be spending half of your time on something that only makes you 10 per cent of your profit. It was really nice to get all those numbers, put them all on paper, and figure out what’s actually happening.”

Based on the success of the pilot program and the response of REACH members, CF North Okanagan recognized the continued need for the program.

“When we introduced the program, we sought to bring the agricultural business community greater support in identifying opportunities that will help them stay strong and resilient,” says Kazia Mullin, Business Services Manager, CF North Okanagan. “Now that we’ve seen how great the need is and what a difference it makes, we wanted to bring this opportunity to more producers.”

Starting in October, the 22-week program moves participants through five phases of business development to identify gaps and opportunities. Along the way, REACH members will participate in workshops, gain access to federal and provincial grants and funding, grow a network of peers in the North Okanagan, and engage in one-on-one coaching with program facilitator Andrea Gunner—a leading agrologist and agricultural consultant who also runs a pastured poultry operation in the North Okanagan.

“It’s such a delight to very gently guide people and watch them take flight,” says Gunner. “The business growth that has happened through the program is incredibly inspiring.”

When the program ends in March 2022, participants leave the program with an actionable plan that paves the way to reaching long-term and short-term business goals.

“Last year’s participants entered the program looking for support. Many felt like their business was done because of COVID. Their marketing model didn’t work anymore. They felt stalled,” says Gunner. “By the end of the program, REACH was full of enlightened people. Not because of me, but because of their hard work and their new community of people running a business with the same obstacles. Having that support group was tremendously empowering for them.”

Rising food supply costs also present a challenge to agricultural entrepreneurs, Gunner says.

“As someone who cares about my community and people who are disadvantaged, that’s of great concern to me,” says Gunner. “But there’s also an opportunity for someone to fill that need. REACH can help you find those opportunities and efficiencies by helping you look at your business with a different mindset.”

Now, six months after the pilot program ended, Gordon says his biggest takeaway was identifying and overcoming his business’s weaknesses.

“It’s just really helpful to have that solid information,” says Gordon. “I feel like I actually know my business better.”

To learn more and apply for the REACH program, presented in partnership with Accelerate Okanagan and the Regional District of North Okanagan, visit www.futuresbc.com/reach. The deadline for applications is Sept. 30.

‘Encyclopedia of business knowledge’: Business Exchange program open to applicants

September 13, 2021/0 Comments/in News /by Natalie Appleton

Ask Judy Dangel about Business Exchange, and she’ll tell you all about the benefits of the peer networking program. That’s because, when she purchased her Enderby business 30 years ago, she quickly recognized gaps in her knowledge.

“I was young, bought my store, and thought I knew everything,” says Dangel, owner of Enderby Jewellers. “I soon found out owning a business means I also need to be an accountant and advertiser.”

That’s when Dangel heard about a new pilot program in Vancouver. Dangel joined and stayed on as Community Futures North Okanagan brought the Business Exchange program closer to home.

Delivered in bi-weekly meetings, Business Exchange is a small group forum that welcomes non-competing businesses. In each meeting, members learn about and discuss diverse topics ranging from business growth to accounting, marketing, legal, and everything in between.

“Business Exchange is great. Where else do you get a lawyer, accountant, and advertising professional sitting around a table for 90 minutes? If you have a legal question or accounting question, those questions are brought up in the discussion and answered,” says Dangel, the program’s longest-standing member.

Joanne Weatherill, owner of Briteland in Vernon, joined the program shortly after Dangel. After a few years in the program, Weatherill left Business Exchange only to rejoin after an invitation to become a guest speaker.

“I went back because Business Exchange truly brings the community and members together,” says Weatherill. “Plus, you always learn something. Everyone takes something away from the meetings. Community Futures is an encyclopedia of business knowledge.”

And, even after three decades in the program, Dangel agrees.

“Every year, I said if I didn’t get anything out of it, I’d leave. But, every year, I come out of it with something,” says Dangel. “For me, Business Exchange is about having those like-minded people around you that act as a sounding board.”

With a diverse, non-competitive membership spanning multiple industries, Business Exchange welcomes small business owners to share their experiences and learn from one another.

“One of the real strengths of the program is having a place to solve problems and come up with new ideas and strategies to address business challenges. Members bring unique perspectives, expertise, and support that everyone benefits from,” says Kazia Mullin, Business Services Manager, CF North Okanagan.

That program diversity, Weatherill says, grants members access to a network of professionals to navigate common business problems.

“Business is challenging no matter how big or small you are,” says Weatherill. “Friendships have formed through the program, and you can always pick each other’s brains after the discussion. I would tell anyone thinking about Business Exchange to apply. You and your business will benefit.”

Business Exchange, sponsored by Nixon Wenger and Clark Robinson, meets for bi-weekly virtual discussions and workshops. If you are interested in applying to become a member, visit CF North Okanagan online at futuresbc.com/business-exchange.

Women with Momentum

July 27, 2021/0 Comments/in Success Story /by Kazia Mullin

From a craft cidery to a dance studio to custom metal fabrication, their businesses couldn’t be more different. But there’s one word that ties Missy Dobernigg, Becky Martselos, Holly Cleveland and their respective businesses together: Momentum.

All three have momentum guiding them through big changes and developments in their businesses, and each is a member of the Momentum Women’s Business Accelerator program run by Community Futures North Okanagan.

With 35 members across many different industries, Momentum helps women entrepreneurs realize their potential through access to business development learning, business coaching, government funding and a peer support network.

“It’s really easy to get caught up in the day-to-day, hustle and bustle of, ‘I have to get all this work done,’” says Cleveland, owner of Dimension Metal. “Momentum helps you stop and focus on running your business.”

On the heels of hiring an employee to aid in production, Cleveland was able to access government funding through the program to implement a new employee package as well as streamline administrative tasks through estimating software.

“Eight years ago, if you told me that I’d be running my own business, I never would have believed you. There were times in the first few years where it was touch and go. I wasn’t sure if it was going to work or not, but I had a support group around me that believed I could do it. Whenever things got tough, it always seemed to work out. I was able to just keep on going,” says Cleveland, who is now preparing to hire someone and hopes to expand her shop.

READ HOLLY’S STORY

Meanwhile, fellow Momentum member Becky Martselos is getting ready to start a dance academy in partnership with School District 22. Through the academy, local dancers can put their passion to work for high school credits and grow into Accentz Dance Studio’s welcoming community of dedicated dancers. Starting in September, 14 students from SD22 in Grades 8-12 will spend half-days training with Martselos and Accentz Dance Studio instructors as part of their curriculum.

“We really are a family. Some of the dancers spend as much time in the studio as they do at home,” says Martselos. “It’s amazing to see them growing into these beautiful women inside and out that have gained confidence through dance. That support and confidence comes from other students.”

As the only dance or fitness studio Momentum, Martselos of Accentz Dance Studio agrees with Cleveland on the benefits of the program.

“Whether you’re welding or picking fruit, it all applies,” says Martselos. “Plus, having an all-women group is amazingly supportive.”

READ BECKY’S STORY

Missy Dobernigg of The BX Press Cidery also has big plans for the ciderhouse this year.

After the cidery’s patio closes for the season, massive renovations will begin as The BX Press transforms to add indoor dining and a full commercial kitchen.

“We’re focused on farm-to-table dining as we grow the business. Our concept is unique for Vernon. With the expansion, we’d like to be able to expand the menu to reflect this passion,” Dobernigg says. “We take great care with the ingredients in our ciders. We use real fruit, never any artificial flavouring, and the apples are all grown right here in our orchard. We want our food to be the same way.”

And, with the substantial renovation plans starting soon, Dobernigg says she’s thankful to be involved in a community of growth-focused women entrepreneurs.

“There are some really inspiring women in the program,” says Dobernigg. “Running a business can be isolating. You’re never off. Having that intentional time to connect with other women entrepreneurs running the same grind is mentally uplifting.”

READY MELISSA’S STORY

Cleveland agrees.

“We’re all geared towards growth and just being the best boss ladies we can be.”

Are you a women entrepreneur interested in developing your business? Momentum Women’s Business Accelerator is open for applications for a September 2021 intake. Visit CF North Okanagan online at futuresbc.com.

Growth Sparks Opportunity at Dimension Metal

July 14, 2021/0 Comments/in Success Story /by Kazia Mullin

A flat deck trailer sits outside the Falcon Road shop. It’s an early Friday morning in the BX. Birds chirp to welcome the June sun that warms the shop through an open garage door.

Holly Cleveland sits at the far end of a long table. She’s spent the morning preparing for a long day in the shop. A smile crosses her face as she talks about some of her upcoming projects. She takes pride in crafting beautiful yet functional metalwork for her clients.

Through Dimension Metal, Cleveland has spent the past five years building custom railings for high-end residential properties. She does other work, she says as she gestures towards the flat deck for a truck outside, but railings are her specialty.

“There aren’t many aluminum welders in Vernon that do what I do. My goal was always to take over that niche in this area,” says Cleveland.

Cleveland excels at making complex angles appear seamless through hidden fasteners. Whether she’s fabricating ornate wrought iron, tensioning cable, or crafting elegant interior or exterior glass railings, it’s the small details that set her work apart.

“It’s important to take the time to be accurate and still acknowledge your mistakes,” she says, contributing Dimension Metal’s growth to her attention to detail and her values. “Now, I just have too much on the go so I need to hire somebody.”

Soon, she will welcome a new employee.

“I think legacy is so important when running your own business. I’ve always wanted to grow the shop beyond myself and extend the future of Dimension Metal,” Cleveland says as she rests her elbow on the table.

Warm weather radiates through the open garage door. Summer is starting in the Okanagan, and that means Dimension Metal is getting ready for its busy season.

“For the last three months, I’ve been quoting, quoting, quoting,” Cleveland says. “Just in the last two weeks, almost all have been approved.”

Cleveland looks around the shop, located in her father’s garage and smiles.

“Eight years ago, if you had told me that I’d be running my own business, I never would have believed you,” Cleveland says. “There were times in the first few years where it was touch and go. I wasn’t sure if it was going to work or not, but I had a support group around me that believed I could do it. Whenever things got tough, it always seemed to work out. I was able to just keep on going.”

She stands up and walks across the small space before crouching next to a large piece of equipment in the centre of the room. She lifts the thick rubber cable hanging off the side of the machine.

“I only have enough power to run two of these at a time,” she says as she drops the plug. “I want a bigger space, but I’ve been more focused on growing my arsenal of tools to fit a bigger shop first. I’ll make this work for a while longer if it means I can get another piece of equipment each year.”

But, with only enough power for two machines at a time, Cleveland is careful about what equipment she purchases and when.

The bigger problem that comes from her small space is planning.

“It takes time to be able to step back and be organized with eight jobs on the go and two people in the shop,” she says, her elbow once again leaning on the metal table along the shop’s eastern wall. “Sometimes, that’s hard to do. There are those nagging little things, cobwebs, in the back of your mind that need to get done. But when you finally do get them done, it makes everything so much better. It makes your little heart happy.”

Cleveland is part of a business accelerator program for women through Community Futures North Okanagan that she says helps her slow down and focus on the bigger picture of running Dimension Metal.

Through Momentum, she’s secured funding to create new employee packages and purchase estimating software to streamline the administrative process of running a custom metal fabrication company.

“It’s really easy to get caught up in the day-to-day, hustle and bustle of, ‘I have to get all this work done.’ Momentum helps me understand where I’m going with my business,” Cleveland says.

“Everybody, no matter what industry, comes across the same problems. It’s interesting to see how they deal with it. We’re all geared towards growth and just being the best boss ladies we can be.”

Are you interested in Momentum, the business accelerator for women entrepreneurs? Visit CF North Okanagan online at futuresbc.com.

Accentz Dance Studio Community is Moving into Schools

June 17, 2021/0 Comments/in Success Story /by Kazia Mullin

When indoor fitness came to a halt and classes were moved online last spring, Accentz Dance Studio director Becky Martselos wasn’t sure what the next year would bring for her students. But Martselos’ dancers rallied around their community. They remained dedicated to dance even when it meant spending hours practicing alone in their bedrooms.

“We really are a family. Some of the dancers spend as much time in the studio as they do at home,” says Martselos. “It’s amazing to see them growing into these beautiful women inside and out that have gained confidence through dance. That support and confidence comes from other students.”

As the dancers celebrate the beauty of the Okanagan with outdoor videos for their virtual recital, Accentz Dance Studio is ready for its family to get a little bit bigger.

Through a new Dance Academy through School District 22 (SD22) developed and led by Accentz Dance Studio director Becky Martselos, local dancers can put their passion to work for high school credits and grow into Accentz’ welcoming community of dedicated dancers.

Starting in September, 14 students from SD22 in Grades 8-12 will spend half-days training with Martselos and Accentz Dance Studio instructors as part of their curriculum.

“The students come to us with dance backgrounds. It’s not an elective subject where students can decide, ‘I’m going to learn to dance,’ at 16,” says Martselos.

Martselos and Accentz’ team of 16 dance instructors will work with students to find opportunities for individual growth. Students will set personal goals at the beginning of the course and have weekly check-ins with instructors to measure their progress.

“For the past 18 months, I’ve been talking with vLearn. In December, I proposed an official Dance Academy attached to the school district to the school board trustees,” says Martselos. “And, after three months of back and forth with the District Parent Advisory Council (DPAC) and trustees, it was accepted.”

But dancing, while the focus of the program, is only part of the new academy.

As Martselos prepares for hip surgery, she understands the need for injury prevention training.

“Physiotherapists will be in the class every other week to talk about injury prevention, training for longevity, and just taking care of the developing body to lessen the risk of injury,” says Martselos. “We’ll keep their bodies nice and healthy as we train because it’s so important.”

Becky Martselos of Accentz Dance Studio will welcome 14 students to the new Dance Academy through School District 22 in September.

Before starting SD22’s Dance Academy, Martselos and Accentz Dance Studio worked with School District 83 to offer a day program. Through the program, students spent five hours per week in the studio pursuing dance as an elective instead of traditional electives like woodworking or drama.

But, after running the program for a few years, Martselos noticed a flaw: only her current students were exposed to the day program.

“I just thought, there are kids at other studios that can really benefit from this and should be able to take advantage of the programming. Only, it wouldn’t be right for me to go to these studios because it might feel like I’m taking their students,” says Martselos. “I felt like I needed a bigger umbrella to operate under.”

In preparation for its inaugural year, Accentz’ Dance Academy will see six students from other studios and dancers moving to the area from the Lower Mainland and Kootenays.

“I’m in the process of working with the foreign student coordinator because I feel it would be an excellent program for exchange students,” says Martselos. “They’ll come straight into a community they’re familiar with. They’ll be embraced and supported right away by friends.”

Martselos’ own community, outside of Accentz Dance Studio, is a significant motivator in the studio’s growth.

While at a three-day training conference for dance instructors in Vancouver, Martselos received an email from Community Futures North Okanagan about a new program aimed at women in business. Called Momentum, the accelerator program connects like-minded and growth-focused entrepreneurs with resources and government funding to reach their business goals.

“I knew Momentum was what I really wanted. It was a no-brainer for me,” says Martselos.

Through the program, Martselos secured funding to build a new website, hire a professional photographer, and engage a lawyer. Beyond the funding, Martselos says the real strength of the program is in the connections between members.

“Even though I am the only dance or fitness studio in Momentum, everything we discuss applies. Whether you’re welding or picking fruit, you’ll learn something, and having an all-women group is amazingly supportive,” says Martselos.

“I’m so grateful to have spent the last two years growing with these women.”

Are you interested in learning more about Momentum? Visit CF North Okanagan online at futuresbc.com.

BX Press Cidery Expansion Plans Bear New Fruit

June 7, 2021/0 Comments/in Success Story /by Kazia Mullin

A sun sets above the orchard as the new indoor restaurant fills with laughter. Inside, guests bond over the season’s craft cider and artisan farm-to-table food. It’s an image that lies on the horizon for The BX Press Cidery.

If you had asked her when she opened the cidery, Missy Dobernigg would have told you that the cidery would never serve food. Now, more than eight years into the business that’s kept her family’s orchard alive, Dobernigg is preparing to do just that. When the cidery closes for the season in the fall, massive renovations to the iconic outdoor-only ciderhouse will begin.

“It’s lovely here when the weather is perfect, but not having indoor dining limits our season to three months,” says Dobernigg. “It’s a very different experience if you’re here during a thunderstorm compared to a beautiful sunny day.”

This year, Dobernigg extended the covered outdoor patio so guests can enjoy the cidery and its woodfire flatbread regardless of the weather. When construction begins in the fall, Dobernigg said the new patio will come down and the building will expand to add indoor seating and a commercial kitchen that overlooks the orchard.

“We’re seeing the demand for indoor dining. People really want a farm-to-table experience where they can connect with their food and its origins,” says Dobernigg. “It’s an opportunity that, right now, feels like a logical way for the business to expand. We would always regret it if we don’t take this opportunity.”

A concept image shows the indoor dining plans for BX Press Cidery’s upcoming expansion.

As Dobernigg prepares to renovate the cidery and make the most of the beauty of the orchard, she’s building connections with local growers and producers to craft the menu. Currently, the BX Press serves thin-crust flatbreads and charcuterie boards.

“We’re focused on farm-to-table dining as we grow the business. Our concept is unique for Vernon. With the expansion, we’d like to be able to expand the menu to reflect this passion,” Dobernigg says. “We take great care with the ingredients in our ciders. We use real fruit, never any artificial flavouring, and the apples are all grown right here in our orchard. We want our food to be the same way.”

Before the indoor dining overlooking the apple trees opens to the public, Dobernigg is starting the transition to full organic production at the orchard. That transition began in 2021 and will take roughly three seasons to complete.

“It will be a big change for the farm that will help balance the business,” she says. “We use about half of the apples we grow in the cidery, and the rest go to BC Tree Fruits for the fresh market.”

From the plans for an indoor commercial kitchen and seating to a fully organic orchard, Dobernigg says the business is expanding to support the needs of the community.

“When we were one of few craft cideries in the province, it was easy to get on the liquor store shelf. Now, there are close to 40 of us all vying for those same four shelves. But what we have here at the orchard is unique to and we want to share it,” says Dobernigg.

“The community has been amazing to us. Rather than pushing wholesale, we want to build our business in a direction the people in Vernon want to support.”

Missy Dobernigg is a member of Community Futures North Okanagan’s business accelerator program, Momentum.

As growth at the iconic North Okanagan orchard ramps up, Dobernigg says she is thankful for the support of like-minded entrepreneurs in Momentum, Community Futures North Okanagan’s business accelerator for women.

“There are some really inspiring women in the program,” says Dobernigg. “Running a business can be isolating. You’re never off. Having that intentional time to connect with other women entrepreneurs running the same grind is mentally uplifting.”

Through Momentum, Dobernigg secured funding for professional photography to promote her business, legal advice on contracts, and enlisted an HR specialist to aid in growing the cidery’s staff.

“Having access to these professionals has made a huge difference for my business,” says Dobernigg. “It’s had a tangible impact through available government funding and intangible impact through its discussion topics and speakers.”

But, most of all, Dobernigg is thankful for her community, both in Momentum and Vernon as a whole.

“I’m so grateful that opportunities continue to open up and that the community continues to stand behind us in whatever direction we take the cidery.”

Are you interested in learning more about Momentum, our business accelerator for women entrepreneurs? Visit CF North Okanagan online at futuresbc.com.

Community Futures North Okanagan names volunteer of the year

April 20, 2021/0 Comments/in News /by Kazia Mullin

With years of experience in launching and managing media and tech start-ups, Tim Bieber uses his experience and industry knowledge to aid budding entrepreneurs.

A volunteer with Community Futures North Okanagan (CF North Okanagan), Bieber was awarded the organization’s Volunteer of the Year Award for his contributions to the community.

“I was drawn to how progressive CF North Okanagan was in their approach to economic development and supporting the modern-day community needs,” says Bieber. “In particular, I was impressed that the organization was stepping up to create a local community accelerator innovation centre space for the growing number of entrepreneurs in the area.”

A volunteer since January 2020, Bieber says he is inspired by CF North Okangan’s holistic approach to helping the community.

“I was blown away by the number of programs offered and by the impact the organization has on the community beyond business services and loans,” says Bieber.

The Vernon Innovation and Entrepreneur Workspace, or The VIEW, is a project Bieber supports as a CF North Okanagan volunteer. He believes The VIEW is a unique and powerful addition to the community.

“The VIEW will help foster and incubate the next generation of entrepreneurs to help our community thrive,” says Bieber. “I firmly believe this is going to be a huge driver in sustainably growing our region.”

Bieber is behind more than five media and technology companies and has helped launch and mentor other entrepreneurs looking to make their mark in the industry. He has held executive-level positions in companies as small as 10 employees and as large as 1,500 and has a keen eye for sales and business development in the tech sphere.

“We are very grateful to Tim for sharing his valuable time and expertise to improve and enhance the organization and the community we serve,” says Leigha Horsfield, CF North Okanagan executive director.

Through CF North Okanagan, Bieber is an active director and member of the Board Resource, Diversity, and Regional Relief Recovery Fund committees.

Volunteers are the backbone of CFNO. The organization’s geographically and demographically diverse board and committee members use their community engagement, business and workspace development, human resources, and financial and legal expertise to aid in CFNO’s ability to meaningfully contribute to the North Okanagan.

For more information about how to volunteer with CF North Okanagan, visit the volunteer page on our website.

Armstrong Videographer Helps Community Carry on During COVID

April 16, 2021/0 Comments/in Success Story /by Kazia Mullin

Self-employment program graduate Mike Babott of Rhythm Productions uses his videography skills to help Armstrong businesses adapt to COVID-19

It’s a day when children race around the playground with syrup fingers from the pancake breakfast and red lips from the Canada Day cake. When hundreds of people stand on the grass under a July 1st sun to sing Canada Day together following a tribute to veterans at Memorial Park. It’s a day that’s loud, because the entertainers sing and dance and laugh with all their heart under the gazebo, above the squeals of children enjoying a free swim at the pool and all kinds of games on the lawn. This is Canada Day in Armstrong, for as long as most can remember. So, what would this community do in 2020, when COVID asked people to celebrate apart, at home?

Nearly one year has passed since the Armstrong-Spallumcheen Chamber of Commerce, like so many others over the past year, was forced to adapt. The Chamber set out to bring the spirit of Canada Day to residents another way—online. Mike Babott, owner of video production company Rhythm Productions, was only too keen to help make their idea a reality.

“It’s a big to-do, and everyone was crushed that it was shut down, so we looked for a way to pivot and create an online event.”

Babott filmed personal messages from local officials, performances by dancers and bands, demonstrations by artists and even a homemade ice cream tutorial. Residents also got in on a Canada Day baking contest, a livestreamed car rally through town and a virtual dance party via zoom. Every half hour, the Chamber then released new videos via a special Facebook page so people could enjoy the festivities throughout the day.

“People loved that they could watch those videos when it worked for them, and they didn’t miss anything. We had people from all over, not just Armstrong, celebrate with us.”

By all accounts, the event was a success.

“People still had a day to connect and celebrate,” says Babott. “It turned into an amazing event and the community really responded to it.”

It was just one of several ways Babott has been able to use the power of video to help support his community over the last year.

Rhythm Productions has helped numerous BC organizations and events since opening in 2018.

The Armstrong-Spallumcheen’s ‘Cheese, It’s a Natural’ festival—a highly anticipated event held annually in September that normally draws hundreds of vendors and attendees—also had to make a change in 2020, and Babott was there with his camera gear.

“We said, let’s keep it going, let’s let people experience this festival from the comfort of their home.”

So, Babott went out and brought the dairy stories to the dairy community, filming a cheesy Farmstrong Cidery pizza being made, a cheesecake class with Orchard Blossom Honey, a tour of a dairy farm—and more.

“It turned into such a great event. The videos have had hundreds of thousands of views, and for a small city of 5,000 people and a small chamber to have that kind of presence online is remarkable.”

Once it was safe to reopen, the owners of Farmstrong Cidery wanted to help guests understand ahead of time what steps they’d be asked to follow, and the steps the staff would follow in this new environment. Babott packed his camera and drove up Salmon River Road to the popular cidery (where he is a regular).

The Farmstrong Cidery reopening walk-through video takes guests from the parking lot to being seated and ordering to paying their bill amidst arrows and masks and plexiglass, and it’s had more than 2,000 views.

“It was such a different experience, so they wanted to let people know in advance what to expect. They’ve said the video really helped because when people arrived, they already knew the drill and it saved their staff time in explaining so they could just focus on serving people.”

Behind the scenes with Mike Babott and Rhythm Productions.

Babott says visuals go a long way in helping people understand new ways of doing things they’ve always done, and consumers have shown this year that they have an appetite for connecting with their favourite brands however they can. If that’s video, Babott says it’s providing an important connection point and source of support.

Babott opened his business in Armstrong in 2018 after taking the self-employment program (delivered by Community Futures) through WorkBC Vernon. A member of the CF North Okanagan Business Exchange group, he says the organization’s continued support has made all the difference.

“They were always happy to answer questions or take a call to help me navigate opening my business, and without their support, I wouldn’t be here making videos.”

That support has also been important throughout difficult times as Babott sought out opportunities and silver linings. He says he’s grateful he’s had the chance to help his community make an impact through video.

“I love telling people’s stories.”

Are you considering becoming self-employed? Learn more about WorkBC’s Self-Employment program and eligibility requirements. Contact the WorkBC Centre in Vernon at 250-545-2215 ext. 233 or visit workbccentre-vernon.ca for more information.

Enterprize Challenge 2021 Finalists Announced

April 16, 2021/0 Comments/in News /by Kazia Mullin

Community Futures North Okanagan Enterprize Challenge finalists compete for more than $40,000 in prizes

VERNON, B.C.—From beautiful country weddings to food waste recycling and permaculture consulting, environmental consciousness ties together this year’s Enterprize Challenge finalists.

Hosted by Community Futures North Okanagan (CFNO) and presented by VantageOne Credit Union, the Enterprize Challenge brings together seven entrepreneurs with seven unique business ventures to compete in a Dragon’s Den-style competition for more than $40,000 in prizes. The April 28 virtual event will be live-streamed from the Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre.

“This year’s Enterprize Challenge highlights the innovation and ingenuity of North Okanagan entrepreneurs during these difficult times,” says Kazia Mullin, CFNO Business Services Manager. “The challengers demonstrate the need to adapt traditional business ideas to meet a new marketplace. Our judges now face the difficult decision of selecting a winner from seven incredible finalists.”

This year’s finalists include:

*Bluegrass Farm Events aims to be at the centre of the North Okanagan agritourism movement.*

Bluegrass Farm Events, Troy and Thea Sievert

From its roots as a beautiful Airbnb on 13 acres of pristine North Okanagan landscape overlooking Spallumcheen Valley and Otter Lake to its future as a country-style wedding venue, Bluegrass Farm aims to be at the centre of the region’s agritourism movement.

“To be part of establishing a strong agritourism industry in the North Okanagan where people will be excited to experience our way of life, may just be one great present to give to a stranger,” says Troy and Thea.

“If they just happen to get married on the farm and be branded as a ‘Bluegrass couple,’ we think it’s a win-win.”

*Jessica Bosman and Bryn Davis are the masterminds behind DOUBL—an innovative take on the future of bras.*

DOUBL, Jessica Bosman and Bryn Davis

A good bra should inspire confidence. With the help of 3D imaging technology, DOUBL makes perfect, custom-fitting bras that provide comfort in the boardroom and support when you need it most. With their innovative ideas and dedication to the environment, DOUBL is a bra-market disruptor.

“We are looking forward to bringing the bra into the 21st century,” says Bosman and Davis. “This space has lacked innovation for years and the female population deserves so much better. We want to remove the frustration and discomfort that often accompanies purchasing and wearing a bra.”

*Food Waste Challenge turns leftovers into bio pulp to enhance soil.*

Food Waste Challenge, Jay Aarsen

Jay Aarsen of Food Waste Challenge believes nothing should be squandered. Through a specialized recycling method, Food Waste Challenge turns leftovers into viable bio pulp to enhance soil and aid plant growth.

“Food waste is one of the leading contributions to greenhouse gases,” says Aarsen. “We recycle in a way that promotes fermentation to create an agri-bio liquid to replace fertilizers full of microbes that remove nutrients from the soil.”

*Born in the Okanagan, Gambit is a family board game made to bring players together.*

Gambit, Paul Cousins

Unplug and enjoy one-on-one family time with Gambit, an all-ages custom board game created right here in the North Okanagan. Gambit boards have made their way into many homes and RVs through exposure at Vernon stores, Creative Chaos, and an interactive afternoon with École Beairsto students.

“Our ultimate dream scenario is to create a workshop to produce classic versions of the game while licensing out the concept to a major game manufacturer for worldwide distribution at the same tier as Chess, Backgammon or Crokinole,” says Cousins.

*Oasis Gardens Consulting designs beautiful and regenerative gardens that inspire, bring joy, and foster land stewardship.*

Oasis Gardens Consulting, Keli Westgate

Oasis Gardens Consulting inspires, consults, and educates about zero waste edible and medicinal foodscapes that foster land and community connections. Westgate designs beautiful, regenerative gardens using permaculture principles to improve mental and physical health.

“I am feeling the love from the community and the interest in edible landscapes is growing daily,” says Westgate. “I am looking forward to helping clients and students design and grow outdoor spaces that will inspire, bring a harvest, bring joy, and foster more land stewardship to increase resilience The Oasis Gardens Consulting brand will stand for eco-consciousness in land design, positive and regenerative solutions.”

*OTA Gear Rental believes that outdoor adventure should be fun, safe, and affordable.*

OTA Gear Rental, Tiffany and Olivier Asselin

Adventure should be safe, simple, and fun. OTA Gear Rental is a one-stop-shop for quality and affordable outdoor activity equipment whether you’re hiking in Kalamalka Provincial Park or camping in the beautiful Okanagan wilderness.

“We are so excited about our business and it means so much to us to know others feel that same way,” say Tiffany and Olivier. “OTA Gear Rental is a COVID-safe and affordable option for connecting with nature and reconnecting with friends and family.”

*Shambhala Clothing, now under new ownership, specializes in sustainable, fair-trade, and handmade clothing, jewelry and gifts from eco-friendly brands working for social good.*

Shambhala Clothing, Amanda Homeniuk

Located in the heart of downtown Vernon, Shambhala Clothing is a thoughtfully curated lifestyle shop. Shambhala specializes in Boho, eclectic, fair-trade, and handmade clothing, jewelry, and gifts from eco-friendly brands working for social good. Homeniuk purchased and transformed the business in 2020.

“In all respects, we have started anew,” says Homeniuk, noting the new branding, inventory, and renovated space. “Based on feedback from our customers, we are looking already to expand our selection to include men’s clothing—first online and then in the future to an additional brick and mortar location.”

“The final pitches is a highly anticipated event and it’s wonderful that the public can still be a part of the excitement in this virtual format,” says Mullin. “It’s going to be a great evening and a welcome return of the Enterprize Challenge.”

The final pitch and showcase will be live-streamed via HopIn on Wednesday, April 28, from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available online at hopin.com/events/enterprize-challenge-finale.

The Community Futures Enterprize Challenge, presented by VantageOne Credit Union, is made possible by the support of 13 sponsoring organizations.

Enterprize Alumni Nominated for Small Business BC Awards

February 19, 2021/0 Comments/in News /by Kazia Mullin

FILL Vernon’s Refill Store & NUMU Technologies need your votes!

VERNON, B.C.—One uses data to help businesses grow their profits, the other uses pumps on jugs of household products to help people refill containers and keep plastics out of landfills. Both are Enterprize Challenge alumni and both have been nominated for a Small Business BC Award. FILL Vernon’s Refill Store has been nominated in the category of Best Community Impact and NUMU Technologies has been nominated in the category of Best Innovator.

The Small Business BC Awards is a high-profile province-wide awards competition, and FILL owner Teresa Sanders and NUMU owner Mitchal Derksen are no strangers to business competitions. Both have participated in Community Futures North Okanagan-hosted Enterprize Challenge, a local business competition designed to give entrepreneurs a headstart as they compete for more than $35,000 in prizes.

Derksen participated in Enterprize Challenge in 2018 with a dream of helping small and medium-sized businesses make better growth decisions and improve revenue with data and insights—the kind large companies have entire departments of analysts to support. After going through the competition, his focus shifted beyond offering a service and toward developing software to make “helpful data” even more accessible to a wider market.

“We feel very strongly that the work we do is innovative and helpful for clients so we’re very excited to be included in a category that lets us celebrate that,” says Derksen, adding given the current business climate, NUMU’s work has been especially rewarding. “Forecasting cashflow helps develop resiliency so you can get through this and get through it stronger.”

In the Polson Park Mall, fellow Enterprize alumni Teresa Sanders and her store, FILL, are helping businesses cope with COVID with natural hand sanitizer she created last year, and the store’s passionate community of “refillers” of everything from shampoos to laundry soap is also growing. After winning the spring 2019 competition, Sanders opened her refill store in December, and recently celebrated 100,000 plastics saved.

*Teresa Sanders, owner of FILL Vernon’s Refill Store, holds her award after winning first place*
*in the 2019 Enterprize Challenge competition.*
(photo credit Celena S Photography)

“I am super excited to be recognized for this award and am touched that our community continues to see the value of saving plastic and our earth,” says Sanders. “FILL couldn’t save so much plastic without the support of the community. I never could have dreamed that the community would get so behind our little store.”

CF North Okanagan wanted to draw attention to these nominations both to celebrate their achievements and to encourage the public to support them by voting. The public can vote for until March 7 to help deserving nominees receive this special recognition. https://smallbusinessbc.ca/awards/

Excitement is also building for the 2021 Enterprize Challenge. A total of 23 participants are now in the learning stages as they work toward creating a promising business and a compelling pitch for judges. Derksen is among the one-to-one mentors supporting participants along the way. On April 28, the finalists pitch, awards and challenger showcase will be livestreamed from the Vernon & District Performing Arts Centre, and the public will be able to get tickets via Eventbrite.

Feature image photo: Mitchal Derksen, middle, owner of NUMU Technologies, talks data with his team at Triumph Coffee in downtown Vernon.

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