Tag Archive for: Entrepreneur

Top 10 Tech Companies in Waterloo

What are the ten best tech companies in Waterloo? What makes these companies unique and profitable? Check out this post for details!

Top 10 Tech Companies in Waterloo

Waterloo is one of the best places in Canada to start a tech company. It has the world’s highest number of tech companies and startups per capita. Most of the companies have talent from the University of Waterloo. Today’s article will discuss the top ten tech companies. Read on!

1. Index Exchange

Index Exchange offers a global advertising platform, allowing media owners and buyers to connect and purchase or sell advertising space. The platform is intuitive, reliable, and fast. Index Exchange has been in the business for more than two decades. It has more than 500 employees with offices across North America.

2. Uvaro

Uvaro is one of the best tech companies in Waterloo and aims to support professionals seeking fulfilling careers. Uvaro has developed a successful career platform, providing training, career development, paid apprenticeships, and connectivity with recruiters.

3. Faire

Faire is a tech company that develops software applications, data analytics, and robust AI and machine learning-based products to transform the wholesale experience for small businesses and entrepreneurs. Over 250,000 local retails, and 30,000 small businesses use Faire services.

4. MappedIn

MappedIn is another best tech company in Waterloo, offering state-of-the-art tools for realtors, property owners, and operators to streamline their dynamic indoor maps. The purpose is to create digital wayfinding experiences and develop cutting-edge apps for customers.

5. Auvik Networks

Auvik Networks offers a cloud-based platform to transform complex networking into reliable, efficient, and fast network management. The company provides automation tools for IT professionals and marketers to improve their organizational value and generate higher investment returns.

6. Route This

Route This is a tech company that provides a platform for companies in various industries to address Wi-Fi and networking issues. It also offers powerful tools for customer support teams and ISP technicians, helping them to promote their services and ensuring the best installation quality for their customers.

7. Lumaki Labs

Lumaki Labs is an EdTech startup in Waterloo that aims to help companies unlock their talents and streamline their training programs. The company operates in the EUC space to help businesses, schools, and universities manage, optimize, and scale talent programs via automation tools and innovative software apps.

8. Aterlo Networks

Aterlo Networks has created a cloud-based platform known as Preseem. It helps local, regional, and country-wise internet service providers measure, analyze, optimize, improve network performance, and provide customer value.

9. Adaptive Pulse

Adaptive Pulse is another tech company that provides employee management services and tools for SaaS businesses. The purpose is to prioritize retention, decrease churn rates, and boost revenues. Adaptive Pulse analyzes volumes of data, including internal and external data sources, to provide a unified view of clients for SaaS companies.

10. Code Gem

Code Gem is a team of highly qualified and experienced IT professionals, software developers, designers, and data analysts. The company creates platforms for software teams working in various businesses.

It collects feedback and pulls data from teams to create state-of-the-art dashboards and applications to increase business productivity and employee collaboration and improve the overall business bottom line.

Final Words

Waterloo has hundreds of startups and companies in various industries. However, the tech industry in Waterloo is booming, thanks to the diverse talent from the University of Waterloo with specialization in software, application development, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud computing, data analytics, and other IT fields. Until Next Time!

Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
Photos from Unsplash & canva.

July 16, 2022/by tarek

Entrepreneur

Top Canadian AI Companies

Are you looking for the best AI companies in Canada? Check out this post to learn about each company’s services with essential details!

Top Canadian AI Companies

Artificial Intelligence (AI) will impact the future of all industries. It is the primary driver of emerging technologies like the internet of things (IoT), robotics, and big data. AI will continue innovating technologies and streamlining people’s lives and the business world. Here are the top Canadian AI companies. Read on!

The App Lab

The App Lab is a software and AI development company. It has been operating in the tech industry for more than 15 years. The company’s headquarters is in Toronto and has 50 employees. The App Lab specializes in mobile application development, artificial intelligence, machine learning algorithms, and custom software.

It provides AI services to various industries, including marketing and advertising. The company has created a website for E-learning company, allowing people to take practice tests and prepare for a nursing license exam. It is one of the most notable projects by the App Lab.

Convergence

Convergence is a tech company established in 2014. The Vancouver-based company offers web development, mobile applications, blockchain services, enterprise app modernization, and innovative AI and machine learning products.

Numerous tech companies hire Convergence to develop custom software solutions, AI-based products, and support systems. The company aims to streamline businesses’ ROIs through innovative AI solutions.

Hilo Labs

Hilo Labs is one of the best software development, machine learning, and AI companies in Toronto, Canada. The company has a team of professionals with expertise in web and mobile app development, artificial intelligence, and IoT.

In addition to AI-based solutions, Hilo Labs provides full-stack software development and custom mobile applications for businesses in various industries. Hilo Labs also perform maintenance of apps using cutting-edge technologies.

Ample Insight

Ample Insight offers business intelligence, big data, and AI services. The Brampton-based company has a team of professionals with extensive knowledge of developing AI solutions for e-Commerce, IT, and consumer products.

Besides, Ample Insights works with private and public companies, providing them with engineering consultancy. The company offers support systems for project development, ensuring accurate data analytics, innovation, and prompt completion, allowing companies to achieve their goals.

Push Interactions

Push Interactions is a software development company specializing in wearable app development, digital strategy, app marketing, UX/UI design, machine learning, and artificial intelligence.

The company works with small businesses, enterprises, and giant corporations throughout North America, providing them with state-of-the-art technology solutions. The most notable project of Push Interactions is an AI-based mobile application that allows users to prevent home invasions, intrusions, and robberies.

Final Words

Canada is the world’s leading AI research and development hub. The country is within the top five countries for its production and innovation in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cloud computing. These are the best IT companies with expertise in AI-based solutions for businesses in various industries.

Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
Photos from Unsplash & canva.

July 14, 2022/by tarek

Entrepreneur, Entrepreneur

Top 10 IT Startup Companies in Toronto

Are you looking for the best AI companies in Canada? Check out this post to learn about each company’s services with essential details!

10 IT Startup Companies in Toronto

Although Canada has a small population, people have the potential to innovate and develop successful startup companies, particularly in the IT sector. The Canadian business ecosystem creates an array of top IT startups. Today’s article will highlight the top ten IT startups in Toronto.

1. ELEKS

ELEKS offers unique services to SMEs and enterprise clients, allowing them to improve their value through innovative technologies. ELEKS is one of the best startups with hundreds of employees with expertise in software services, including product design, software development, data science, quality assurance, etc.

2. Unified Infotech

Unified Infotech is an award-winning IT startup company in Toronto. It offers end-to-end solutions and tailored software, mobile and web apps, and cloud computing services to companies in North America, helping them accelerate their business efficiency.

3. Cubix

Cubix is one of Toronto’s leading enterprise software development, video games, and mobile app companies. It offers customized integration services with state-of-the-art enterprise-level mobile, web, and analytics solutions.

4. Aspired

Aspired helps companies build a remote dedicated team and hire the best talent for their business operations. Aspired has a team of professionals who can identify new tech hubs. The company’s engineers and software teams identify problems and offer tailored solutions to businesses in various industries.

5. Open Geeks Lab

Open Geeks Lab develops apps that drive real value to individuals and companies. These apps help people make money. The company understands the users’ needs, develops quality apps, and delivers the final products on time, making it the best startup in Toronto.

6. OpenXcell

OpenXcell has been offering IT services in North America for over a decade. The company is a leading software and mobile application development startup, offering innovative solutions at the most affordable prices.

7. Alliance Tek

Alliance Tek is another best startup company in Toronto. It has gained a reputation in North America due to its innovative business approach and talent pool, including software developers, designers, and project managers. The startup offers end-to-end solutions with cutting-edge tools, methods, and technology stacks.

8. Glorium Technologies

Glorium Technologies is a tech startup offering businesses strategic, innovative, and technical expertise. It is one of the most trusted and reputable IT companies in Toronto, providing tailored software solutions to healthcare and real estate businesses.

9. Zealous System

Zealous System is another IT startup in Toronto, offering innovative web and software development services. The company has professionals with extensive knowledge and experience in iOS, Android, Java, Swift, Flutter, React Native, Ionic, and Xamarin development.

10. Code Bright

Code Bright offers services to small-medium enterprises and giant corporations looking to improve their minimal viable products in the market. The company improves, streamlines, and automates business processes, allowing businesses to achieve efficiency, increase productivity, resolve challenges, reduce risks, and decrease costs.

Final Words

Toronto is Canada’s commercial and industrial hub with hundreds of IT startups and companies that offer state-of-the-art software and tech solutions for businesses in various industries. Until Next Time!

Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
Photos from Unsplash & canva.

July 14, 2022/by tarek

Entrepreneur, Entrepreneur

Top 10 Largest Employers in Canada [Updated]

What are the top ten largest employers in Canada? Check out this post to read the list and description of each company.

All these top employers offer incredible benefits such as generous pay packets, multiple promotions, supportive team members, and managers who understand your career vision. They often also come up with creative rewards like employee discounts or stock options, making them even more attractive!

What’s more? You can become part of a larger international community when working with some of these giant brands, opening yourself up to greater learning opportunities and global recognition.

10 Largest Employers in Canada

Canada has earned a top spot in business due to its investor protection, trade freedom, low corruption rates, and minimal corporate taxes. Many companies in various industries have expanded their operations into Canada.

The country has a booming economy. Thanks to plenty of opportunities and low tax brackets, Canada has become an ideal location for businesses and corporate giants to dominate the North American market.

Canada has the most sophisticated economy in the world, with an annual gross domestic product of over $1.64 trillion. It is the world’s ninth largest economy. Today’s article will highlight the top ten employers in Canada. Read on!

1. Google

Google is one of the most profitable companies and world-famous search engines. Research shows that it is the best place to work in Canada. The company has offices in various Canadian cities, including Montreal, Toronto, and Edmonton, employing over 2,300 employees.

Moreover, Google offers multiple benefits to its employees, including a flexible work schedule and generous salary packages. You can also access many perks, such as discounts and stock options. It has been named a top employer in Canada for its transparency and commitment to employee well-being.

2. Hydro-Québec

Hydro-Quebec has dominated the utility industry in Canada, employing over 19,000 employees. The Company’s headquarters is located in Montreal, Quebec. The public utility company powers residential and commercial properties throughout the province. The company has hundreds of positions open and looking to hire professionals in various departments.

Furthermore, it has won several awards for its environmental and community commitment. It is one of the most successful employers in Canada, offering generous salaries and benefits. You will get a chance to work with the top minds in the industry and grow your professional network quickly. It is also one of the most ethical companies in Canada.

3. Cisco Systems

Cisco System is a giant IT, internet, and software company. Located in Toronto, Ontario, Cisco System employs more than 17,000 people in Canada. Cisco develops and manufactures state-of-the-art technology products and services. Currently, it is hiring in Calgary, Edmonton, Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver.

Additionally, the company offers competitive salaries and outstanding benefits, making it one of the top employers in Canada. You will get to work with some of the best minds in technology, engineering, and business. You will also have access to state-of-the-art facilities and top-of-the-line technology resources.

4. Costco Wholesale

Costco Wholesale has multiple units in each Canadian province. The company offers wholesale merchandise and runs state-of-the-art membership programs to benefit customers. Costco is looking to hire professionals in various departments, including marketing, finance, and information technology. The company’s headquarters is in Ottawa, Ontario, with more than 39,000 employees.

You will get the opportunity to work with the top minds in retail and improve your leadership skills. You will also have access to competitive salaries and benefits, such as discounts and stock options. Moreover, the company has an excellent work culture and provides a safe workplace environment.

5. Ubisoft

Ubisoft is one of the most significant players in the media and advertising industry, employing more than 15,000 employees. The company develops video games in different genres and looking to hire professionals in programming, animation, graphics design, and quality control.

Ubisoft is one of the most innovative companies in the world, providing a chance to enhance your skills and grow your career. The company has offices all over Canada, including Toronto and Montreal. You will get to work with the top minds in the industry, access competitive salaries and benefits, and enjoy great perks.

6. Microsoft

Microsoft is one of the most reputable internet, software, and IT companies. The headquarters in Mississauga employs more than 2,300 employees. It is a multinational company with clients worldwide.

It has been named a top employer in Canada for its commitment to employee well-being and transparency.

Moreover, the company offers competitive salaries and benefits, making it one of the top employers in Canada. You will get to work with some of the best minds in technology, engineering, and business. You will also have access to state-of-the-art facilities and top-of-the-line technology resources. Microsoft provides a great opportunity for professional growth.

7. Boeing

Boeing is another multinational company that has dominated Canada’s aerospace and defense industry. Located in Winnipeg, the company has over 2,000 employees. Studies show that Boeing manufactures 75% of airplanes operational in the aerospace industry.

Moreover, it offers competitive salaries and excellent benefits, making it one of the top employers in Canada. You will get to work with some of the best minds in engineering, design, and technology. You will also have access to cutting-edge research labs and top-of-the-line equipment. Additionally, Boeing is committed to giving back to the community and strives for a diverse, inclusive workplace.

8. Air Transat

Air Transit is a transportation and logistics company in Montreal with over 5,000 employees. The company provides its employees numerous benefits, including travel, social benefits, and competitive wages.

It is one of the top employers in Canada. You will get to work with the best minds in aviation and transportation, access modern facilities and resources, and enjoy excellent benefits. Moreover, you will get to work in a dynamic and flexible environment with opportunities for personal growth. Air Transat is dedicated to ensuring the safety and comfort of its passengers and employees.

9. FedEx

FedEx is another giant player in the transportation and logistics industry with extensive networks in Canada. Located in Mississauga, Ontario, the company employs more than 6,000 people. The courier company has operations across the country, and currently, they are looking for professional cargo handlers, couriers, and ramp handlers.

FedEx offers competitive salaries and benefits, making it one of the top employers in Canada. It allows employees to develop their skills and grow in their careers. FedEx also has a great work culture, providing its staff with a safe and secure environment. You will be able to develop your skills and experience while working with the best minds in the industry.

10. University of Toronto

According to McLean’s Magazine, the University of Toronto is the best place to study in Canada. It has more than 7,000 employees. The University has made substantial efforts to earn a reputation in Canada, driving people from within the country and aboard.

Moreover, the University has an excellent work culture and offers competitive salaries, making it one of the top employers in Canada. You will get to work with the best minds in the academic field, access modern facilities and resources, and enjoy great benefits. You will also have the opportunity to develop your skills while participating in research projects and programs. The University of Toronto is dedicated to providing its students with a world-class education and experience.

Final Words

Businesses and corporations in Canada benefit from low taxes, international trade agreements, and friendly policies. The country has hundreds of companies. However, these are the best employers with the largest economies. Until Next Time!

It is a great opportunity for many people who are looking for jobs in different sectors. Therefore, consider the list above and take your pick! You may be able to find your dream job. Until Next Time!

FAQs

What are the largest employers in Canada?

The largest employers in Canada include Hydro-Quebec, Cisco Systems, Costco Wholesale, Ubisoft, Microsoft, Boeing, Air Transit, FedEx, and the University of Toronto.

What type of jobs do these employers offer?

These employers offer various types of jobs, including IT, programming, marketing, finance, animation, graphics design, quality control, cargo handling, couriers, and ramp handlers.

Why should I consider working in Canada?

Canada offers numerous advantages to potential employees, including low taxes, international trade agreements, and friendly policies. Additionally, Canada has hundreds of companies that offer great job opportunities in many sectors.

July 14, 2022/by tarek

Entrepreneur

Best Entrepreneurship Schools in Canada

What are the top-class entrepreneurship schools in Canada? Check out this post to get the list and read the details of each institution!

Best Entrepreneurship Schools in Canada

Recognizing opportunities, starting a business, and turning your ideas into practice are the primary driving forces behind studying entrepreneurship. These studies focus on a person’s knowledge and skills to business opportunities, allowing people to determine their self-worth in starting a company. You can find various courses, schools, and programs in Canada. However, the best among them are:

Queen’s University

Queen’s University has a tremendous number of resources for individuals looking to become successful entrepreneurs. It has a Center for Business Venturing with student programs and additional courses at the Smith School of Business. Queen’s University also organizes world-class competitions and conferences, allowing its students to compete and present their ideas before the world.

Acadia Entrepreneurship Centre

Acadia Entrepreneurship Center has been offering various courses for over two decades. Not only does the Center provide programs for students, but it also has short courses for non-profit companies, startups, and small-medium enterprises.

The Launch Box is the most successful program for people to study entrepreneurship. In addition, the Center organizes various on-campus and off-campus events, including pitch events, competitions, business video games, etc.

Bishop’s University

Bishop’s University is another best place to study entrepreneurship. The University has state-of-the-art facilities, giving you the feeling of leadership and innovation. The University’s Dobson-Lagasse Center has the best resources and services for students, including luncheon meetings, speed coaching events, mentoring, and real-world startup programs.

The University of Waterloo

Bill Gates and Justin Trudeau have advocated for the University of Waterloo, declaring it the best place for entrepreneurial studies. So, if you want to flourish your skills and become a successful entrepreneur, look no further than the University of Waterloo, a leading institution for students seeking to start and run new businesses in Canada.

StFX Enterprise Development Centre

StFX Enterprise Development Center offers the best programs at the Gerald Schwartz School of Business. The institution is famous for producing the best business talent with unique skills and entrepreneurial spirit. It offers various programs, allowing students to drive success.

Lean Launchpad, University of British Columbia

Lean Launchpad or e@UBC is one of the best entrepreneur programs in Canada. The University of British Columbia has made substantial efforts to make this entrepreneurial program successful, driving people from all over Canada.

It has an on-campus lab space, seed funding, and accelerator programs with excellent support systems, allowing students to gain first-hand knowledge. The variety of resources and services will enable graduates to launch successful startups.

Final Words

Entrepreneurs are the backbone of today’s business and economic world because they create new ideas, bring new technologies, innovate cutting-edge-system, and positively impact society.

The courses and schools/universities above are the best places to study entrepreneurship, flourish your skills, and make the most of your potential business. Until Next Time!

Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
Photos from Unsplash & canva.

July 14, 2022/by tarek

Entrepreneur, Entrepreneur

How to start up a business in Canada

Are you looking to start a business in Canada? If yes, you are in the right place. The post highlights practical tips to get started!

How to start up a business in Canada

Business immigration to Canada in 2022 is one of the most reliable ways for foreigners to move permanently to a prosperous country with good prospects for obtaining Canadian citizenship.

The Canadian government is interested in attracting foreign investment. It is happy to accept experienced foreign business people who can create new jobs in Canada and benefit the local economy. Read on!

How to start a business in Canada

It is no secret that doing business is somewhat risky, especially when starting a business abroad in Canada. Many important decisions need to be made, ranging from the choice of location, direction, and form of ownership of the future company ending with the amount of investment, tax optimization, and effective control. Here is everything you need to know!

Immigrant Investor Venture Capital Program

The program was launched back in 2010, but we note right away that periodically new applications for participation are not accepted. The government opens access when Citizenship and Immigration Canada justifies the need for additional overseas investment.

The amount of assets is not less than 10 million Canadian dollars, which is equivalent to 7.5 million US dollars. At the same time, the funds must be earned as a result of legitimate business or investment activities.

All this is very carefully checked. To participate in the program, you must be ready to invest at least 2 million Canadian dollars in a special venture fund for up to 15 years without any guarantees of return and income.

The second prerequisite concerns proficiency in one of the official languages - French or English, which must be confirmed by an international certificate or passing a test. In addition, a foreigner must have at least a year of study at a higher educational institution that meets Canadian standards.

Start-Up Visa

Business immigration program to Canada, designed to launch promising innovative ideas that can compete in the market, generate profits, and create jobs. Up to five foreign entrepreneurs can apply for a visa simultaneously, provided they own at least 10% of the company’s capital.

It requires an official letter from one of the approved Canadian organizations with a guarantee of support for the business idea. In some cases, it is necessary to confirm the availability of funds in 75 or 200 thousand Canadian dollars.

Procedure for Registering a Business

Registration and filing with Industry Canada are done online within a day, and after five days, the company is assigned a unique business number. The cost is 200 Canadian dollars.

It is mandatory to fill out a registration form and send the memorandum of association, information about the board of directors, and the company’s location. Make sure you follow the step-by-step procedure to achieve your goals.

There is an additional CAD 21.47 fee to reserve a unique business name. Once a new company is registered, this information is passed to the Canada Revenue Agency, where a corporate income tax number is assigned within a day.

Final Words

Successful business in Canada by entrepreneurs abroad is impossible without choosing the optimal and affordable form of ownership for a newly created company. Follow the tips and tricks above to start a successful business in Canada.

Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
Photos from Unsplash & canva.
This article includes affiliate links leading to amazon.ca

July 14, 2022/by tarek

Business & Corporate, Inspiring People, Inspiring Women

Kendall Ansell and Her Mission to ‘Rebuild’ the Construction Industry

Kendall Ansell is an award-winning interior designer and owner of both Kendall Ansell Interiors and Belle Construction.

It all Started at Home

From early on, I knew I would be working in the business of homes. Growing up, I spent most weekends helping my Dad, who worked as a contractor, with family projects. As soon as I set foot on a build, I felt inspired by the way you could take something out of nothing and facilitate a home for people. This early passion blossomed into a fascination to understand how people live and make their spaces a reflection of who they are.

When it came time to pursue my passions, I moved my way through architectural drafting during post-secondary studies, then transitioned into the design. Following the completion of school, I created ‘Kendall Ansell Interiors’, an interior design firm, in 2010. Through this, I executed countless successful projects alongside my team and was the recipient of the Best Interior Designer Award from Burnaby Now 6 years in a row. The best part of my career is making peoples’ dreams into a reality, which is what has held true throughout each project I do.

Why Belle Construction?

After years of working in the design trade and visiting job sites, the discrimination against women was very evident. It never sat right with me that an industry which should bring joy and creativity had fostered such a hostile environment. To understand how this became the norm, a key factor is that the industry as a whole is male-dominated – in 2020 it was documented that only 5% of tradespeople were women. This number is far too low to ensure there is true gender equality throughout the trades.

This was an issue I couldn’t ignore, which led to the creation of my Vancouver-based construction business, Belle Construction. At Belle, we have a female-led team and are breaking the barriers that have previously existed for women in the construction trade. It was important to me to create a positive place to work where women and members of the 2SLGBTQA+ community would feel safe and have the freedom to explore their passion to execute beautiful projects. Since its creation, we’ve been able to tackle countless projects all while setting a new precedent for work environments in our industry.

Through Belle Construction, we submitted an application to the Human Rights Tribunal to exclusively hire and recruit women without it being penalized as discrimination. We outlined the hiring issues, gender inequalities and safety issues in a lengthy essay that ended up being approved – making us one of the first companies to ever achieve this feat. Belle Construction is at the start of a new era that prioritizes the safety and success of women in an industry that has previously discarded them.

My efforts to protect women’s safety extend beyond just Belle Construction and have been an incredible segue for partnerships like with the WISH Drop-in Centre Society, which prioritizes the health, safety, and wellbeing of women experiencing poverty – 60% of whom are Indigenous. Through Belle, we are able to connect with other organizations that have the same goals and find solutions to fight gender inequality together.

How to Rebuild

Belle Construction is just the start of what’s needed to rebuild the construction and trades industries. We’re also taking action by franchising Belle with the goal of creating opportunities across Canada for women and allowing other female leaders to run well-established construction companies. This, along with initiatives from other female-led organizations, will push us further towards a more equitable industry.

I am also keen to increase thought leadership amongst industry peers. The more awareness we can bring to the issue, the better. By sharing my story and the success I have experienced through pursuing equity in trades, I hope it inspires other women to do the same and give hope to younger generations looking to pursue trades.

I believe that awareness at a young age will be an incredible way to get more women to enroll in trade programs and eventually join us on job sites. As many children’s toys and books are highly gendered, it is still challenging for young girls to explore passions that are deemed “male.” As such, I wrote a children’s book, “Belle and Friends Build a House,” to show young girls that the industry is ready to welcome them.

I hope to inspire others to take their part in rebuilding an old system, transforming it into a new one that is welcoming and safe for all genders and orientations to thrive. Belle Construction is just the first “renovation project” of many.

Kendall Ansell is an award-winning interior designer and owner of both Kendall Ansell Interiors and Belle Construction. Kendall has extensive experience in the industry and focuses on an inclusive approach that is combined with knowledge of classic design and construction. Her incredible mix of skills and approach gives her the unique ability to create homes and offices with substance and style that turns her client’s dreams into a reality.

April 24, 2022/by tarek

Cooking, Inspiring People, Success

Chef Donald Guthro – An Inspiring Canadian Feature

Chef Donald Guthro was born and raised in rural Canada. He received his Commerce degree and professional Chef training at George Brown College in Ontario. Don then set out to refine his skills and educate himself internationally in Europe, working throughout France and Italy while learning the trade and traditions from old-world culinary pioneers. He also witnessed life in impoverished regions with high unemployment which would later become the catalyst or motivator for an entirely new way of looking at business. When Don returned to Canada, he worked as Chef and Executive Chef in some of Canada’s top restaurants across the country as well as working chef at the Olympic Games. In addition, he formed a catering company and restaurant consulting firm where he assisted other restaurateurs to become successful in their businesses. Chef Don Guthro arrived in Vancouver as an executive chef before becoming the director of a renowned local and international culinary school. However, the high cost of culinary tuition, lack of affordable housing and skilled entry-level cooks in the area left Chef Don Guthro to ponder social enterprise as the vehicle to educate Canada’s top cooks.

In 2010 he created the NS Culinary Educational Society becoming D.I.C.E.D Culinary School. Through his own initiative and resources, he is fulfilling his dream to help aspiring cooks get the education and training for a successful future in the culinary industry. After 40 years and counting in the culinary field, Chef Don Guthro shows no sign of slowing down. His abundant experience has led him to create an innovative, self-funded socially good business model investing in people. Proceeds from his catering company, restaurant and culinary consultations are used to support D.I.C.E.D Culinary School by providing affordable education for all and full sponsorship for those that qualify. While Chef Don Guthro plans to continue his direct involvement in the day-to-day running of the company, he hopes to find time to author educational texts that support culinary growth and success in all communities.

We are a social purpose business situated in Vancouver, BC. We currently operate a restaurant (NSCS Discovery), catering company (Culinary Choreography), condiment line, and run meal programs for the at-risk and homeless.

What do we do? With the proceeds of these ventures, we offset the cost of our culinary training program so that it is accessible to anyone interested in pursuing a career in the culinary industry. We recently put the school online so that we could not only lift the financial restrictions of culinary training but the geographical ones as well.

Our School: DICED (Diverse Innovation in Culinary Educational Development). DICED is an online educational program that allows students to complete the required course work over a 40 week period while working and gaining experience simultaneously. We offset the cost of the tuition so that the amount owed by the student is minimal. It is our hope that by graduating without debt, we will strengthen the skilled labour force of the culinary industry. As it stands right now, only a fraction of culinary school graduates remains in the industry due to exorbitant debt load. They are forced to seek out higher-paying jobs and in doing so, give up on a career they are passionate about, which means the industry loses prospective talent. Our online program is a win-win for both students and industry alike.

He runs a social purpose business situated in Vancouver, BC. He currently operates a restaurant (NSCS Discovery), catering company (Culinary Choreography), condiment line, and runs meal programs for the at risk and homeless.

With the proceeds of these ventures, he offsets the cost of the culinary training program so that it is accessible to anyone interested in pursuing a career in the culinary industry. He recently put the school online so that he could not only lift the financial restrictions of culinary training but the geographical ones as well.

DICED (Diverse Innovation in Culinary Educational Development). DICED is an online educational program that allows students to complete the required course work over a 40 week period while working and gaining experience simultaneously. He offsets the cost of the tuition so that the amount owed by the student is minimal. It is his hope that by graduating without debt, there will be a strengthened skilled labour force in the culinary industry. As it stands right now, only a fraction of culinary school graduates remains in the industry due to exorbitant debt load. They are forced to seek out higher-paying jobs and in doing so, give up on a career they are passionate about, which means the industry loses prospective talent. D.I.C.E.D’s online program is a win-win for both students and industry alike. Learn more about DICED here.

April 2, 2022/by tarek

Business & Corporate, Inspiring People

Featuring Inspiring Canadian Immigrants: Saye Sathiyakumar – Managing Partner at Power Staffing Solutions

Featuring Inspiring Canadian Immigrants – Saye Sathiyakumar

Saye Sathiyakumar is a minority-based owner, representing the South Asian community who was raised in a less privileged and low-income borough in Toronto (Scarborough).

Saye did schooling in Scarborough from kindergarten to high school, then pursued a Diploma in Graphic Communications Management at Ryerson University. His passion has always been in design and art, and how he can communicate messages and convey stories to the community through various art forms.

When stumbling upon the Staffing & Recruitment industry, he decided to bring his creativity to the workforce. Saye excelled in sales, being a world-class storyteller. Connecting businesses with people and employing over 3000+ associates over the course of his career thus far.

Professional Journey

Saye Sathiyakumar is a senior executive within the recruitment industry, with 10 years of high-level sales, operations and management experience. Generated and managed a $10M+ portfolio with Arrow Group of Companies as an employee (2013-2018). Since then he has risen to the ranks of the Managing Partner, and spearheading Power Staffing Solutions, in partnership with AGC.

The business is only it’s 4th year and has had astronomical growth. Founded in late 2018, Power Staffing Solutions services both the Technology and Healthcare industry in staffing and recruitment. PSS has had 900% growth from 2019 to 2020 in gross sales. From 2020 to 2021, Power had a 118% growth, closing off the year with record breaking industry numbers. Power Healthcare, a division of PSS, is currently the third largest healthcare staffing agency in Canada as of 2021, and is striving to expand further in the U.S within the upcoming years. Power Tech Solutions, the IT & Professional staffing division of PSS has made strong partnerships with startup businesses, big box corporations, and executive searches. PSS has also partaken in a recent acquisition, partnering with fellow sister company within the Arrow Group of Companies, expanding its services beyond staffing (see more). Saye’s resilience to growing & scaling the business to new heights every year, while supporting his hometown of Scarborough, ON is commendable and an inspiration to many.

PSS currently employs more than 500 professionals across Canada, who are either servicing on the field or employed within the firm. Saye is determined that PSS will become one of the largest Healthcare & Technology staffing providers out of Toronto, Canada. He states, “We are just getting started”.

Philanthropic Initiatives

Among many initiatives, Saye recently started the most prestigious Scholarship program at his high school, Woburn Collegiate Institute that was named after his close friend who passed away from mental illness. Starting the scholarship program was a way to bring awareness to mental health, and support students at any aspiration they wish to pursue after high school.The recipient will be awarded based on not only academics but being overall a good human.

Saye aspires to continue supporting his community of Scarborough, and directly assisting fellow immigrants in finding a future in whatever endeavour they wish.

March 12, 2022/by tarek

Entrepreneur

Top 10 food start-ups in Canada

Although hundreds of food startups in Canada offer unique products/services, these are the top ten companies. Read Here!

Top 10 food start-ups in Canada

Food startups have seen intense growth in Canada for the last two decades. Most startups in the food and beverage industry take different approaches to innovate the sector and ensure consumers have access to fresh, healthy, and nutritious food. Today’s article will give you a list of Canada’s top ten food startup companies

1. Fit Dish

Fit Dish is one of the most popular startups in the food industry, specializing in preparing food solutions and tailored plans for meals. Fit Dish products/services are beneficial for individuals, families, and parties that need catering services.

Fit Dish ensures delivering fresh meals straight to your door. You can also select meals programs that suit your lifestyle, food consumption preferences, and dietary requirements.

2. Tacos & Waffles Inc.

Tacos and Waffles is one of the top startup companies in the food industry. It runs a grocery-retail supply chain and sources food from local farms and ethnic grocers. The primary objective of Tacos and Waffles Inc. is to bring the wholesome cooking and meal-time experience back into household kitchens.

3. Hexa Foods

Hexa Foods is a famous startup in Canada that has developed an innovative product called Bug Bites. It is a healthy, tasty, eco-friendly dog treat made with fresh veggies, fruits, and cricket flour. The company makes substantial efforts to ensure all-natural food items without preservatives, animal by-products, gluten, grains, and artificial flavoring.

4. Carbon Neutral Club

Carbon Neutral Club has a unique mission to reduce carbon footprints by encouraging Canadians to consume fresh food. The company uses innovative methods and financial incentives to carry out carbon removal projects.

When you become a member of the Carbon Neutral Club, you can access sustainable brand partners and leverage the reduced cost options across consumer spending categories.

5 Neutrify

Neutrify is another best food startup in Canada, encouraging consumers to modify their purchasing habits and buy eco-friendly and sustainable food. The purpose is to reduce the overall negative impact on the environment and empower people to improve their health by consuming fresh/organic food.

Neutrify provides carbon footprint data and recommends innovative methods to reduce carbon emissions. You can also download Neutrify’s Google Chrome extension for online grocery shopping.

6. Protenergy Natural Foods Corp.

Protenergy Natural Foods is a food manufacturing startup that quickly gained popularity for its fresh and healthy food products. The company follows an innovative approach, from concept through formulation, sensory and analytical testing to nutritional assessment, packaging, and logistics. The high-quality products of Protenergy Natural Foods Corp. are also cost-effective for consumers.

7. Elevate Farms

Elevate Farms is the next-generation indoor farming startup. The company offers a proprietary system to resolve substantial issues experienced by vertical farms. The company grows large leafy green veggies at a mass scale using cutting-edge technology at locations close to cities and population centers.

In addition, Elevate Farms has collaborated with NASA to carry out research and development, ensuring efficient, healthy, and faster production of veggies and fruits in an indoor environment. The purpose is to grow food that delivers higher nutrient yields per square foot.

8. Virtual Process

Virtual Process is a software company that helps businesses in the food industry streamline their operations by planning, creating, executing, and tracking operational procedures. For example, businesses use the company’s software applications to optimize the food production process and packing assemblies.

9. DLVRe-Services

DLVRe-Services is another best food startup in Canada. As the name indicates, this company offers a minimalistic, reliable, quick, and clean way for shops, cafes, and restaurants to provide smartphone ordering solutions for pick-up orders and in-store experiences. The startup has gained popularity during the Covid-19 pandemic.

10. 7Shifts

Last but not least, 7Shifts is a software company that develops customized applications for restaurants to manage their food inventory and employee management. It is an excellent platform for restaurants to track their employees’ activities and availability and manage conflicting schedules.

Moreover, the 7shift platform is ideal for restaurants to create customized work schedules, track real-time sales, and analyze data to gain insights. 7shift also has Android and iOS apps.

Final Words

Canada is a highly advanced country with hundreds of startup companies in different sectors/industries. The government’s business-friendly policies have helped business-minded people run their food startups. Until Next Time!

Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
Photos from Unsplash & canva.

March 10, 2022/by tarek