Entrepreneurs' Forum Introduces Program for New Immigrants

Newcomers to Nova Scotia who want to start a business here now have a program to help them.

The Entrepreneurs' Forum today, May 29, launched its Business Advisory Service Program for Immigrant Entrepreneurs. The mentoring program offers newcomers business advice from experienced business people who can help them overcome business challenges.

Advisors will help immigrants develop their business plan so that they can start their business in Nova Scotia. They also help immigrant entrepreneurs develop networks within the business community, increase knowledge of the local business environment and of the resources available to them.

The service is available at no cost.

"The forum's new mentoring program is a solid step forward in helping newcomers succeed in Nova Scotia, and builds on existing programs within the community," said Immigration Minister Carolyn Bolivar-Getson. "When new immigrants succeed here, they stay here, and help to grow our economy and diversify our communities."

The Business Advisory Service Program for Immigrant Entrepreneurs is supported by the Office of Immigration, which provided $32,000 in funding.

"This program is a natural extension of the advisory services we provide to new and existing business owners," said David McNamara, president of the Entrepreneurs' Forum. "Our network of advisors provides entrepreneurs with solid expertise in finance, law, accounting and beyond. Newcomers face unique challenges in setting up a business, and this program, led by a successful immigrant entrepreneur, will help them overcome issues."

The Entrepreneurs' Forum is a non-profit organization, comprised of senior volunteer business people from a variety of industries and backgrounds, who are dedicated to providing strategic and confidential business advice to new and existing entrepreneurs.