The Comox Valley Small Business Association announces a Community Partnership program. Business owners are invited to participate at no charge.
“The SBA is all about small businesses supporting and learning from one another," says Russell Ball, SBA vice-president and owner of AudioXcellence DJ Services. "Since so many of us try to shop local anyway, our exec thought we should be proactive with a program for area businesses to get more exposure and give incentive to our members to shop there instead of at the business down the street or online.”
Participation is simple. Interested business owners can contact Ball to be included on a list of community partners, and then honour the discount they are willing to provide when an association member presents a valid SBA membership card.
In exchange for participating, the community partner receives more business, and partner businesses will be featured in a print and online list of participating businesses, including their offer. There is also inclusion in the new-member welcome packet, and in a highlighted list in the monthly e-newsletter. In addition, a discount on the first year of SBA dues will be given to any business that wishes to join the SBA.
There is no cost to participate, other than honoring the discount.
“We hope this initiative to further our 'shop local' commitment in the Valley makes sense to business owners — creating a great benefit for SBA membership and increased business for local businesses," says Donna Clairmont, SBA president and owner of Clairmont Custom Draperies and Décor. "With a win-win like that, this really is a community partnership.”
For more information contact Ball at 250-703-3444 or dj_fossil@hotmail.com. Include contact name, company name, location, discount and other conditions, phone, hours and website.
The SBA meets monthly to provide educational and networking opportunities for entrepreneurs. Annual dues are $95. Meetings are held on the first Thursday of the month, 6 p.m. at the Filberg Centre's Evergreen Room. Guests are welcome to attend two meetings before joining.
•The SBA invites entrepreneurs to its monthly meet-and-greet social at the Chalk Lounge (Best Western lobby bar) Wednesday from 5-7 p.m. Bring business cards. There is no fee to attend.
www.CVEntrepreneurs.com.