Way back in July of this year I applied for a program through the government that helps people start up their own business. The great thing about this program is that it provides you with a regular income from the government while you are in the beginning stages of starting your business. One of the scariest things about going into business for yourself is not knowing if you will have enough money coming in to pay your bills and buy groceries! It is a terrifying thing to take that leap into the world of the unknown and there is so much to think about and consider. You don't just decide one day to open your own business and then do it the next. When you realize the importance of having a business plan written to apply for financing and grants....well lets just say that is when most people realize that they are in way over their heads! If you have never written a business plan before it is completely overwhelming.

I received a phone call last week from an individual informing me that I had been accepted into the self employment program....woo hoo!!! A huge wave of relief washed over me because after waiting such a long time to hear anything I had pretty much given up hope of being accepted. The program is for 40 weeks during which I will receive a regular bi-weekly paycheck while I start up my business. Every week I will be attending business workshops and each workshop will focus on different aspects of starting and owing your own business. They will help me write my business plan step by step and provide me with a support team while I embark on this journey. I will learn about business accounting, the importance of marketing and promotions, business banking, networking, insurance, taxes....you name it and it will be covered in detail. I can not express how excited and happy I am to be a part of this program! By the end of the 40 weeks, my business will be completely up and running and hopefully making some money My dream is finally becoming a reality!

So I just wanted to share my exciting news with everyone and thank you all for your support. Happy Holidays!

Patricia