Business leaders from across the province are volunteering their time to provide advice to entrepreneurs through a new mentoring program.
The Business to Business Mentoring Program is administered by the Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce and is sponsored by the Department of Innovation and Advanced Learning through Innovation PEI.
Hon. Allan Campbell, Minister of Innovation and Advanced Learning, said the objective is to help new entrepreneurs improve their operations by developing a network of established business leaders willing to share knowledge and expertise.
“Innovation PEI is pleased to partner with the Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce on this important initiative,” said Minister Campbell. “The Business to Business Mentoring Program allows entrepreneurs to improve their knowledge base and skill set while running a business. The program provides critical support to up-and-coming entrepreneurs in need of advice from business owners that have faced similar challenges.”
Mentoring is a process in which a skilled, experienced individual can help another by sharing knowledge and creating a confidential, safe environment that empowers a small business entrepreneur (mentee) to move with confidence and to realize their full business potential.
Program coordinator Don MacCormac said nine Island businesses have been matched with mentors during the first phase of the program.
“Small and medium sized businesses face a range of skills-related challenges,” said Mr. MacCormac. “The gap in business and management skills can mean the difference between business success and failure for entrepreneurs. This program is helping businesses grow by enabling owners to test ideas and receive suggestions, develop problem solving strategies, and benefit from sound business advice of managers and owners who have learned through experience.”
Mentors participating in this year’s program are volunteering their time to help entrepreneurs and small business owners who are facing a broad range of challenges in the workplace. This service is offered free of charge to participating companies. Organizers are hoping to expand the network across the province.
For more information on the Business to Business Mentoring Program, please contact the Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce at 902-628-2000 or visit www.CharlottetownChamber.com.