The River Business Network
Does anyone else but another entrepreneur really get what it’s like
to be your own boss, take risks and seize business opportunities?
In March of 2003, the CBDC Northumberland Inc. decided to go one step further
to assist in the success of their new and former clients by creating an on-going networking opportunity. Nancy Gamlin Legere
of Concept Communications was hired as a facilitator to encourage new and existing entrepreneurs to network together.
The current participants have since taken charge of this initiative to
nurture its growth. Together, they brainstormed to come up with a name that we felt worked well for the business community
in our region.
"We are called The River Business Network," says facilitator Susan Robichaud.
Next, to give a face to the name, a logo was created by one of the participants,
The Ink Spot, and accepted by all. David Stairs of ATLIS Inc. set up an email discussion list to give participants a chance
to keep in touch, ask questions or seek assistance from others and notify everyone of upcoming events.
"So as you can tell, we are up and running and are eager to share in this
initiative on a greater scale," says Robichaud.
The River Business Network Mission statement says:
"The River Business Network is an association of new and experienced entrepreneurs
who meet monthly to generate networking opportunities. We promote the growth of our business community, while providing a
comfortable and informal environment to share successes and seek or give support. We encourage business owners to participate
in various networking activities and events to gain the confidence, knowledge and motivation necessary to achieve success."
Getting together with other entrepreneurs to discuss common issues and
share successful strategies makes a lot of sense. Networks are a place to grow your business, improve your knowledge and skills,
find new suppliers and especially stay motivated.
"If your business is new or already existing, come to our next session
and see what being part of The River Business Network can do for you," says Robichaud.
To accommodate as many entrepreneurs as possible, meetings are held at
a predetermined destination, during the evening from 5:00 to 7:00 on the third Wednesday of every month.
The next meeting will be May 19th, at the Goodie Shop. Cost
is $5.00 per person. Lunch will be served. To ensure there is enough food for everyone, please contact Susan Robichaud at
773-7768 if you would like to attend.
Guest speakers will include four Summer Employment Officers from the HRDC-Centre
for Students who will explain what government can do to help employers hire summer students and discuss common perceptions
of government programs as well as the benefits of hiring students.
If you are a business owner looking to network, make new contacts or tap
into useful information, plan to attend on May 19th at the Goodie Shop.
