As the CEO of the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce, I have the privilege to continually witness firsthand the incredible journeys that small business operators embark on. In fact, and I know I’ve mentioned this before on our blog, but I also started my own first business in downtown Oshawa back in 1996, just a couple hundred meters from where the Chamber office sits today. Like many first-time entrepreneurs, I really didn’t know what I didn’t know and ended up learning many things the hard way. Fast-forward almost 30 years later (!!) and I’m so pleased to work toward help other business people feel less alone as they set out on their journeys.
With all of this in mind, your Oshawa Chamber team is tremendously excited to present some truly outstanding programming for this year’s “Do It In Durham,” week. For those who don’t know, Do It In Durham is an annual week-long event, this year running from November 18-22, 2024, designed specifically to empower our local businesses through valuable upskilling opportunities.
The Importance of Continuous Learning
Reflecting on my own experience, I can still relate deeply to the challenges faced by many entrepreneurs. Filled with enthusiasm for the activities and culture around skateboards and snowboards, I quickly realized that my enthusiasm alone was not enough for success. I had very little knowledge in essential areas such as business planning, tax planning, operations, and HR. Even when I sought help, I sometimes struggled to articulate my needs due to a lack of familiarity with the appropriate terminology – that’s how in the dark I was when starting out!
This experience is one of the driving forces behind how we program our annual contributions to the “Do It In Durham” program. We understand that many small and medium business operators may find themselves in similar situations, recognizing the need for continuous learning to elevate their businesses. The landscape of entrepreneurship is constantly changing, and keeping pace with these changes is crucial for success.
Presenting This Year’s Lineup:
Throughout the week, we are excited to present sessions that cover a variety of essential topics. Here’s a glimpse of what participants can expect:
- Apple Integration into the Workplace: Ensuring IT Compliance While Managing Your Apple Fleet
Date/Time: November 18, 2024, from 10am to 12pm
This session will teach participants how to optimize their use of Apple technology in business operations. We will cover strategic steps for integration, tech support processes, and safeguarding company devices. - Effective Onboarding and Staff Training for Success
Date/Time: November 18, 2024, from 12pm to 2pm
Discover best practices for onboarding and training staff to foster a culture of continuous development. This workshop will focus on adult learning principles and techniques to engage employees effectively. - Leveraging Automation & AI to Transform Accounting & Tax Compliance
Date/Time: November 19, 2024, from 10am to 12pm
Explore how emerging technologies like AI are transforming the accounting and tax compliance landscape. Participants will learn how automation can improve productivity and lower operational costs. - Boost Your Local Visibility: Getting Found Locally With a Marketing Plan
Date/Time: November 19, 2024, from 12pm to 2pm
Gain insights into creating a marketing plan that enhances local presence and attracts new customers. This session will showcase strategies for leveraging Chamber resources to maximize outreach. - Risk Reduction in the Workplace: Employment Law & HR Best Practices
Date/Time: November 20, 2024, from 10am to 12pm
Understand the importance of proactive workplace practices from both legal and HR perspectives. This session will provide practical guidance on creating a positive employee experience while minimizing risks. - Immigration Consulting: Hiring Foreign Workers and Compliance Essentials
Date/Time: November 21, 2024, from 12pm to 2pm
Navigate the complexities of hiring foreign workers while ensuring compliance with government regulations. This session will highlight the benefits of diversifying the workforce by hiring Francophone workers. - First Aid & CPR Training: Ensuring Workplace Compliance with Red Cross Blended Learning Course
Date/Time: November 22, 2024, from 9am to 5pm
Ensure your workplace meets safety regulations through this comprehensive training program. The course is designed for businesses of all sizes and offers essential life-saving skills.
Our Mission: Building Community Prosperity
Our mission at the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce is to build community prosperity and a vast amount of how we do this is by supporting local business operators. We believe that equipping our entrepreneurs with the knowledge and skills they need is vital to fostering a thriving business ecosystem.
“Do It In Durham” is an opportunity to invest in our community’s future. By offering these valuable sessions, we aim to help business owners not only survive but thrive in today’s competitive environment. The growth of individual businesses contributes to the overall health and prosperity of our community.
As with each previous year, it continues to be a pleasure for our team to present these opportunities for upskilling and I am genuinely excited about the positive impact these sessions will have on our participants. We recognize that continuous learning is crucial for growth, and we’re proud to present these sessions that cater to the specific needs of our community.
As someone who has walked this path, I understand the challenges that come with entrepreneurship. I hope that “Do It In Durham” serves as a beacon of hope and support for those who find themselves navigating the complexities of running a business.
I urge all local business owners to take advantage of this unique opportunity. Together, we can strengthen our community, foster growth, and ensure the longevity of our businesses. Registration is free for Oshawa Chamber Members, but spots are limited, so don’t delay in securing your place.
Let’s work together to build a more prosperous Oshawa, where businesses thrive, and communities flourish.
