Whether you have a great idea for a start-up business or you own or operate an existing business and are looking for advice, the Elgin Business Resource Centre has the resources that can help your business reach its full potential.
The EBRC is all about promoting economic development in St. Thomas and Elgin County.
New Executive Director Tara McCaulley has worked in the entrepreneurial ecosystem since 2012, starting as a front desk volunteer at the EBRC and working her way through the ranks.
She previously worked for St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation overseeing the Elgin/St. Thomas Small Business Enterprise Centre and the Horton Farmers Market.
All of this in addition to sitting for two years as a councillor on St. Thomas city council.
McCaulley notes, “If there’s a way that we can remove barriers or help with funding or make connections, that’s really what, as I said, is my big passion.”
The EBRC offers one-on-one business coaching, specialized workshops and a self-employment training program.
But it’s a sure bet that many are unaware of the scope of free resources available to the business community.
The EBRC promotes all levels of sustainable business with business loans, from new start-ups to large established businesses. Since inception, the EBRC has granted hundreds of loans to local businesses totaling over $37 million.
“When you look at the growth of St. Thomas and area, we’re growing exponentially. So we’re also seeing lots of new people into our community. How do we reach out to them? How do we make sure they know the services that are available.
“So we really have to not necessarily change our approach completely, but we can’t always do what we’ve always done.”
“We’re not there to make decisions about your business, but we’re there to help you guide the process so that It’s not as overwhelming because as I said, when you’re in your business and you’re working day to day, it’s sometimes really hard to take that step back and look at the big picture.”
It’s a straightforward premise at the EBRC, stresses McCaulley.
Written by Ian McCallum
