Canadian Small Business Women

Connection, Synergy, Community

Finding Balance as Women CEOs: A Women’s History Month Reflection

​As Women’s History Month comes to a close, it invites us to pause—not just to celebrate how far we’ve come, but to reflect on how we’re living as leaders today.

Because success isn’t just about what we build.
It’s about how we live while building it.

For women CEOs, founders, and leaders, the conversation around balance is no longer optional—it’s essential.

We wear many titles.

CEO. Founder. Visionary. Partner. Mother. Mentor. Caregiver. Community leader.

And while the world applauds the outcomes, it rarely acknowledges the weight.

Too often, we’ve been conditioned to believe that in order to succeed, something has to give—usually us.

But here’s the truth:

Sustainable success requires alignment, not sacrifice.

Balance doesn’t mean everything gets equal time.
It means the right things get the right energy—at the right time.

We stand on the shoulders of women who pushed boundaries, redefined leadership, and created space where there was none.

Now, the responsibility shifts to us:

To not just lead businesses—but to redefine what leadership looks like.

That includes:

  • Setting boundaries without guilt
  • Prioritizing well-being alongside performance
  • Building businesses that support our lives—not consume them

Because the next generation isn’t just watching what we achieve.
They’re watching how we achieve it.

Lessons from The CEO Project

In watching The CEO Project, one thing becomes clear: leadership is tested in the moments no one sees.

The pressure. The decisions. The expectations.

And one theme continues to surface—pressure is inevitable, but how we carry it matters.

As women CEOs, we often internalize pressure differently.
We carry the business, the team, the vision—and still show up fully in our personal lives.

But here’s the shift:

Pressure should not come at the expense of your peace.

Some key takeaways that stood out:

  • Leadership requires clarity, not constant availability
  • Decision-making improves when you are not operating from exhaustion
  • Strong CEOs don’t just manage businesses—they manage their energy

Balance is not a luxury.
It is a leadership strategy.

To continue these conversations, Brooke Gordon and I are hosting an unofficial review of each episode of The CEO Project on the CSBW YouTube channel. Because the most valuable insights don’t just come from watching—
they come from discussing.

CLICK TO WATCH AND JOIN THE CONVERSATION

Welcome to December: A Season of Reflection, Opportunity & Community Support

There’s something special about December. It’s a month filled with celebration, gratitude, and a collective sense of renewal as we prepare to close out one chapter and step boldly into the next. For entrepreneurs, it’s also a powerful moment to reflect on the year behind us—what worked, what didn’t, what surprised us—and to plant the seeds for a stronger, more aligned year ahead.

At Canadian Small Business Women, December’s theme is Growth Through Community. Because no matter where you are in your business journey, one thing is always true: you go further when you don’t go alone.

And this month, we’re thrilled to help you do just that.

✨ December Feature: Exclusive Offer from CollabHive

We know that building your business requires the right tools, the right network, and the right support system. That’s why we’re excited to highlight a special December offer from our community partner, CollabHive.

If you’ve been meaning to get more structure in your operations, connect with fellow entrepreneurs, or simply find a space where collaboration is encouraged, now is the perfect time.

Here’s what’s waiting for you at CollabHive:
Private & Virtual Offices – Build a professional presence that inspires trust.
Co-Working & Flex Spaces – Collaborate with ambitious entrepreneurs like you.
Meeting & Event Rooms – Impress clients and host powerful sessions.
Buzz-Cast Studio – Create podcast magic in our pro recording studio.
Annual Membership Perks – Monthly events, workshops & a vibrant community.

CSBW Member Exclusive: To show our support, we are offering all CSBW members
5% OFF all CollabHive services
FREE 1-Day Trial of a private or flex office
But hurry — this limited-time offer until Dec 31, 2025

Claim Your Free Trial when you book online or call +1 (855) 265-4483 and mention promo
code CSBWA5 to activate your exclusive discount.

This is your chance to elevate your workflow, expand your network, and step into 2026 with intention and clarity.

Don’t Forget: Explore Our Partner Perks Page!

If you haven’t visited our Partner Page yet, you’re missing out on a full marketplace of savings, opportunities, tools, and support designed specifically for Canadian entrepreneurs.

👉 Explore all exclusive offers here:
https://canadiansmallbusinesswomen.ca/partners/

From software discounts to legal resources, branding tools, marketing support, and business development perks—these partnerships exist to help you grow smarter, save money, and work more effectively.

And with 2025 just around the corner, this is the perfect moment to invest in the systems, services, and tools that will set you up for success.

A Final Word for the Month

As we wrap up the year, remember that December isn’t just an ending—it’s a powerful beginning. A chance to realign with your goals, strengthen your foundation, and step into the new year with confidence.

We hope you’ll take full advantage of CollabHive’s offer and the many perks available on our partner page. These resources were created with you in mind, and we’re proud to bring them to our community.

Here’s to a month of reflection, growth, and inspired action.

Cheers to closing 2025 strong—and starting 2026 even stronger.

Why Every Entrepreneur Needs a Year-End Reset

Now that my birthday is behind me and the month of November is here, it’s time to reset. This is the time of the year when most entrepreneurs find themselves caught between reflection and exhaustion. The to-do lists are long, the inbox is full, and the thought of adding “business planning” to your schedule feels like one more task you don’t have time for.

But here’s the truth: the most successful entrepreneurs don’t wait for January 1st to start fresh. They intentionally reset before the year ends.

A Year-End Reset isn’t just about setting goals — it’s about creating the clarity, structure, and emotional space you need to move forward with confidence and purpose.

💭 The Emotional Power of Clarity

Running a business can feel like juggling 10 things at once — clients, marketing, finances, and growth all competing for attention. By December, many entrepreneurs are operating on autopilot.

Taking time for a year-end reset gives you a chance to breathe and reflect. It allows you to step back and ask:

  • What actually worked this year?

  • What drained my time, money, or energy?

  • What do I want next year to truly feel like in my business?

When you put those reflections on paper, something powerful happens — you turn vague thoughts into strategic direction. And that clarity isn’t just emotional fuel — it’s the foundation for smarter business decisions.

Clarity brings peace of mind. It quiets the noise and replaces the overwhelm with focus.

💰 The Financial Impact of a Clear Plan

Business planning can sound like a “nice to have.” But in reality, it’s one of the strongest financial tools you can create.

A clear, data-informed plan helps you:

  • Prioritize high-impact activities that drive revenue (instead of chasing every opportunity)

  • Cut unnecessary costs by identifying what’s not delivering ROI

  • Forecast cash flow and avoid the feast-or-famine cycle

  • Align marketing and sales around measurable, achievable goals

Entrepreneurs who plan ahead are more likely to hit revenue targets, maintain profitability, and attract consistent clients — because they’re not reacting; they’re strategically responding.

A strong year-end reset can turn uncertainty into intention — and intention directly impacts your bottom line.

📈 Craving Clarity and Structure

Most women entrepreneurs I know don’t struggle with passion — they struggle with structure. You have the vision, the ideas, the ambition. But without a clear framework, it’s easy to feel scattered and stuck.

That’s why a year-end reset is so essential. It gives you space to slow down, evaluate, and plan your next six months with purpose. It’s not about perfection — it’s about progress with direction.

When you create structure, you reduce decision fatigue. You reclaim your time. And you build a business that runs with you, not against you.

🔁 The Reset Ripple Effect

When you reset your business, you don’t just improve your plan — you improve your mindset.
You approach challenges with clarity instead of confusion, confidence instead of chaos.

And that shift affects everything:

  • Your marketing becomes more intentional.

  • Your offers become more aligned.

  • Your finances become more stable.

  • And your energy becomes more focused.

Taking time for a Year-End Reset is an act of leadership. It says, “I’m not waiting for opportunity — I’m creating it.”

🌟 Ready to Reset?

If you’re craving clarity, structure, and a roadmap for success in 2026, join us for Amplify Your Business: The Year-End Reset — a 4-hour strategy session designed to help you reflect, refocus, and plan your next six months with confidence and purpose.

Together, we’ll turn your ideas into action and your goals into a clear, strategic plan — so you can start the new year with focus, financial direction, and peace of mind.

👉🏾 Learn more and save your spot here: https://canadiansmallbusinesswomen.ca/amplify-your-biz-workshop-year-end-reset/

September: A Season of New Beginnings for Your Business

September has always been known as a time of fresh starts. Students sharpen their pencils, gather their notebooks, and head back to school. Parents shift routines, the pace of life changes, and there’s a collective energy in the air that whispers renewal. But what about us as entrepreneurs? What does September mean for our businesses?

Just like the back-to-school season, September is a perfect opportunity to embrace new beginnings in business. It’s the reset button we sometimes need after a busy summer. Here are a few ways to harness this season of fresh starts:

1. Revisit Your Business Goals

Think of September as your second “New Year.” Pull out the goals you set back in January—what’s working, what needs adjusting, and what’s no longer relevant? This is your chance to realign and create a focused plan for Q4.

2. Refresh Your Brand Presence

Just like kids show up to school with new clothes and supplies, maybe it’s time for your business to get a fresh look. New headshots, updated social media graphics, or even a website refresh can give your brand a confident new energy.

3. Reinforce Your Systems

School success depends on structure and organization, and so does business success. Use September as a reminder to tidy up your systems—streamline your workflows, organize your files, or adopt tools (like AI or automation) that will help you work smarter. (Check out our last blog post)

4. Reconnect with Your Community

Summer often pulls us in different directions, but September brings people back together. This is the perfect time to network, attend events, and re-engage with your audience. Strengthen those connections and spark collaborations that will carry you into the end of the year.

5. Renew Your Confidence

New beginnings aren’t just about strategy—they’re about mindset. As a woman entrepreneur, stepping into September with confidence is key. Show up boldly, trust your expertise, and embrace the opportunities that await.

Final Thought

September is more than just back-to-school season—it’s back-to-business season. Take this chance to restart, refresh, and reimagine your path forward. With renewed energy and intention, you’ll not only finish the year strong—you’ll step into your boldest self yet.

✨ Pro tip: If you’re ready to give your business a fresh look this fall, join us for Content Day—a day of confidence, connection, and curated content to help you step into this new season with boldness.

Why Women Entrepreneurs Should Embrace AI Tools to Work Smarter, Not Harder

As a woman entrepreneur, you already know what it feels like to wear a dozen hats at once—CEO, marketer, bookkeeper, social media manager, customer service rep, and sometimes even IT support. When resources are limited, the pressure to “do it all” can leave you drained and constantly stretched thin.

This is where AI tools can be a game-changer. Artificial intelligence isn’t just for big corporations with huge budgets—it’s accessible, affordable, and designed to help small business owners like you. By leveraging AI, you can free up time, reduce stress, and focus on what actually matters: growing your business and serving your clients. It can also allow you to holiday with ease and allow your business to function smoothly without your daily involvement.

How AI Can Ease Your Workload

1. Streamline Content Creation
Struggling to keep up with social media? Tools like Later can help with post scheduling.  Restream and Streamyard can make streaming to multiple platforms a breeze. Email marketing platform can be beneficial when creating marketing funnels. Aweber , Brevo and ConvertKit are some of the most popular. 

2. Smarter Customer Service
Use chatbot technology like ManyChat to support online interactions leading to more sales! Use Zonka Feedback to pool all online reviews in one place and make sense of them.

3. Simplify Finances
AI-driven accounting software like Xero or QuickBooks can automatically categorize expenses, track invoices, and help you stay tax-ready without endless spreadsheets.

4. Smarter Scheduling & Productivity
Tools like Google Workspace can help manage your calendar, reminders, and to-do lists so you can stay organized.

5. Smart Growth Tools
Tools like Thrivecart can be used to convert existing traffic into sales or use LearnWorlds to create online courses

Many women-owned businesses start small and grow lean, often without the luxury of large teams. That makes every minute and every dollar count. AI tools can help:

  • Save you time on repetitive tasks.

  • Save you money by reducing the need for extra hires.

  • Build confidence, because you’re supported by systems that work efficiently.

  • Allow you to focus on vision and strategy, instead of just admin work.

At the end of the day, your value as an entrepreneur isn’t in juggling endless admin tasks—it’s in the unique ideas, skills, and services you bring to the table. AI tools give you the breathing space to focus on creativity, strategy, and building relationships—the parts of business that truly move the needle.

So, if you’ve been holding off on incorporating AI into your business, now is the time to start. Begin small: try one tool, master it, and see how much time and energy it gives back to you.

Because as women entrepreneurs, our greatest power lies not in doing it all alone—but in working smarter, not harder.

Check out some of our tools from our Partners on our PARTNER PAGE

Confidence Sells: Why Showing Up Boldly Can Transform Your Business

Let’s be real—people don’t just buy products or services. They buy confidence. They buy energy. They buy you.

As a business owner, the way you show up matters just as much as what you’re selling. And nothing fuels that more than confidence.

When you’re confident, it shows in your pitch, your social media presence, your sales conversations, and even how you follow up with clients. Confidence isn’t just a feeling—it’s a strategy. It builds trust, establishes credibility, and gives your audience a reason to believe in what you’re offering.

Confidence is the energy that draws clients in. It’s the unspoken message that says:
“I know what I’m doing. I’m worth the investment. Let’s work together.”

As a woman entrepreneur, confidence can be your most powerful business tool—and yet, it’s often the one we’re taught to downplay. We’re told to stay humble, stay quiet, not be too bold. But here’s the truth:
🚫 Confidence is not arrogance.
✅ Confidence is clarity.
✅ Confidence is conviction.
✅ Confidence is knowing the value you bring to the table—and inviting others to experience it.

So what does confidence look like in business?

  • You speak clearly and proudly about what you offer.

  • You show up online and in real life with energy and authenticity.

  • You charge your worth—and stop apologizing for it.

  • You follow up, show up, and close deals with certainty.

And guess what? Confidence isn’t just an internal thing—it can start with something as simple as a fresh new look for your business image.

So, how do you build that confidence?

One powerful way: freshen up your image.

New, professional headshots and high-quality content can make a world of difference in how you see yourself—and how others see your business.

When you look the part, you feel the part. And when you feel the part, you sell the part.

That’s where our upcoming Content Day comes in.

We’re hosting a day packed with:
✅ Stunning headshots and lifestyle photos
✅ A confidence-boosting space filled with fellow entrepreneurs
✅ Opportunities to network and create content you can use immediately
✅ A vibe that makes you feel like you can take on the world

This isn’t just about pretty pictures (though you’ll get those too). It’s about investing in the version of you that’s ready to grow, connect, and close that sale.

If you’ve been hiding behind outdated photos, inconsistent branding, or waiting for “the right time”—this is it.

Your confidence is your best marketing tool.

Let us help you show it off.

Let’s make confidence your competitive advantage.

Tips for Crowdfunding Success

As we continue our June theme of being Powerful, Purposeful, and Productive, we’re diving into one of the most accessible — yet often misunderstood — ways to raise money for your business: Crowdfunding.

In a time where traditional funding can feel out of reach, crowdfunding empowers entrepreneurs to raise capital with the support of their community — whether that’s friends, family, customers, or strangers who believe in your vision.

💡 What is Crowdfunding?

Crowdfunding is a method of raising money by collecting small contributions from a large number of people, typically online. In return, supporters (also called backers) may receive perks, rewards, early access, equity in your company, or simply the satisfaction of supporting a mission they believe in.

It’s not just about money — it’s also about building a movement around your business idea.

💼 Types of Crowdfunding

  1. Reward-Based Crowdfunding
    Backers receive a product, discount, or exclusive perk. Best for pre-launch products or creative projects.
    Popular platforms: Kickstarter, Indiegogo

  2. Equity Crowdfunding
    Supporters become small investors and receive equity in your company.
    Popular platforms: SeedInvest, Republic

  3. Donation-Based Crowdfunding
    Used for causes or community-based businesses; backers give without expecting anything in return.
    Popular platforms: GoFundMe, IFundWomen

Tips for Crowdfunding Success

Crowdfunding isn’t just “post a link and wait.” It requires strategy and consistency. Here are a few proven tips:

1. Start with a strong story.
People don’t just back products — they back people. Share why you started, who you’re helping, and what impact their support will have.

2. Build your audience before launching.
Success depends on how much traffic you can drive to your campaign. Start marketing early using social media, your email list, and word of mouth.

3. Create a campaign video.
Videos boost trust and conversions. Show your face, explain your mission, and invite people to be part of your journey.

4. Offer great rewards.
Make sure your perks are enticing and sustainable. Think early access, limited edition offers, shoutouts, or behind-the-scenes access.

5. Keep the energy up.
Post regular updates, thank your backers, and create urgency. Momentum is key in the first 7–10 days.

6. Follow through.
After your campaign, be transparent about timelines, fulfillment, and next steps. Keep communication open even if things change.

Let this be your Powerful, Purposeful, and Productive funding season.

Welcome June: A Month to Be Powerful, Purposeful & Productive

As we step into the heart of the year and the early days of summer, it’s the perfect time to reflect, reset, and refocus. June often brings a natural slowdown—vacation plans, longer days, and a shift in pace—but that doesn’t mean your business growth has to pause.

In fact, this can be the most strategic season of all.

That’s why our theme for this month is centered around three words that will guide everything we do in June: Powerful, Purposeful, and Productive.

💥 Powerful

This is your reminder that your ideas, your voice, and your vision have impact. You don’t need a massive team or a huge budget to make waves—you need clarity, confidence, and the courage to show up boldly. This month, lean into your strengths, make powerful decisions, and trust your ability to lead.

🎯 Purposeful

Everything you do this month should move you closer to your “why.” Whether it’s the content you post, the offers you create, or the connections you build—do it with intention. Purpose helps you stay grounded, especially when the world around you is moving in vacation mode.

📈 Productive

We’re not talking about hustle culture—we’re talking about smart, sustainable progress. June is the time to create systems, wrap up lingering projects, and prepare your business to thrive in Q3. Productivity looks different for everyone. For you, it might mean simplifying, outsourcing, or finally launching that thing you’ve been sitting on.

This Month’s Focus: Small Business Funding 💰

Throughout June, we’ll be diving into a topic that’s often a game-changer (and sometimes a stressor) for many entrepreneurs: small business funding.

We’ll cover:
✔️ Types of funding available
✔️ Where to find grants and loans
✔️ How to make your business “funding-ready”
✔️ Common mistakes to avoid

Stay tuned for valuable tips, resources, and real talk on getting the capital you need to grow.

Let this be the month you tap into your power, reconnect with your purpose, and make meaningful progress—on your terms.

Here’s to a Powerful, Purposeful, and Productive June 💼✨

Spring Cleaning for Your Business: Refresh, Refocus, and Thrive!

Spring isn’t just for cleaning out closets and reorganizing your home—it’s the perfect time to refresh and revamp your business too! As the seasons change, take a moment to declutter, streamline, and set yourself up for a stronger, more efficient year ahead.

Here are 7 powerful ways to “spring clean” your business and bring in fresh energy for success:

1. Declutter Your Finances 

🔹 Review your business expenses—are there subscriptions or tools you no longer use? Cancel them!
🔹 Reconcile your bank accounts and ensure all invoices are up to date.
🔹 If you’re still mixing personal and business finances, now’s the time to separate them! (Need help? Check out our latest blog on why this is a must!)

2. Organize Your Digital Space 

🔹 Clean up your desktop and organize important files into clearly labeled folders.
🔹 Delete unnecessary emails and unsubscribe from junk mail.
🔹 Backup your business data to a secure cloud service (Google Workspace, Dropbox, etc.).

A clutter-free digital space = a clearer mind and better productivity!

3. Refresh Your Brand & Marketing 

🔹 Update your website—check for broken links, refresh outdated content, and improve your SEO.
🔹 Review your social media bios and branding—does it reflect where your business is today?
🔹 Give your email marketing a fresh start with new visuals, content, and a revised strategy. (Email Marketing Platforms: AWeber, ConvertKit, Constant Contact)

4. Re-evaluate Your Business Goals 

🔹 Look at your Q1 progress—are you on track with your goals?
🔹 Adjust strategies that aren’t working and double down on what is.
🔹 Set new targets for the upcoming months based on your business growth.

Spring is the perfect time to realign with your vision and make necessary pivots!

5. Streamline Your Operations 

🔹 Are you using the right tools to automate tasks and save time?
🔹 Check your workflow—can you simplify or delegate anything?
🔹 Consider outsourcing areas that drain your time so you can focus on growth.

Efficiency = more time to focus on your big picture goals!

6. Check In With Your Customers 

🔹 Send a customer satisfaction survey to gather feedback.
🔹 Revamp your customer service processes based on what your audience needs.
🔹 Send a spring promo or appreciation email to re-engage past customers.

Happy customers = repeat business + referrals!

7. Invest in YOUR Growth 

🔹 Sign up for a new course, workshop, or networking event.
🔹 Join an entrepreneurial community (like Canadian Small Business Women!) to connect with like-minded business owners.
🔹 Take time to reflect on your wins and set new personal development goals.

Your business can only grow as much as YOU do! 🌱

Top 5 Reasons to Separate Your Business & Personal Finances

As an entrepreneur, keeping your finances organized is just as important as growing your business. One of the smartest moves you can make is separating your business and personal bank accounts. It may seem like a small step, but it can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.

Here’s why having a dedicated business bank account is a must for any entrepreneur:

1. Simplified Bookkeeping & Reconciliation

Trying to sort through personal and business transactions in one account can quickly become a nightmare. A separate business account makes it easier to:

  • Track income and expenses at a glance
  • Identify business-related spending without sifting through personal purchases
  • Reconcile transactions quickly in accounting software like Xero or Quickbooks

When your books are clean, you spend less time fixing financial mistakes and more time focusing on growth.

2. Stress-Free Tax Preparation

Tax season is already overwhelming—don’t make it harder than it needs to be! Keeping business transactions separate ensures:

  • Accurate income reporting
  • Easy access to deductible expenses
  • No risk of personal expenses being flagged in an audit

Plus, when working with an accountant or tax professional, they’ll thank you for having well-organized financial records!

3. Builds Business Credit & Financial History

Want to qualify for business loans or credit lines in the future? You need to build business credit, and that starts with a dedicated bank account. By keeping your business finances separate, you can:

  • Establish a strong credit profile for your business
  • Qualify for higher credit limits and better loan terms
  • Gain financial credibility with banks and investors

A solid financial foundation today sets you up for greater funding opportunities tomorrow.

4. Looks More Professional

Imagine sending a client an invoice and asking them to send payments to your personal bank account—it doesn’t exactly scream professionalism. Having a business account:

  • Strengthens your brand’s legitimacy
  • Makes transactions more transparent
  • Helps when applying for grants, partnerships, and vendor agreements

Clients and suppliers take businesses with formal financial structures more seriously!

5. Legal Protection & Liability

If your business is registered as a corporation, mixing personal and business finances can put your personal assets at risk. Keeping them separate helps:

  • Maintain your business’s legal status
  • Protect personal assets in case of lawsuits or debt collection
  • Show courts and tax authorities that your business is a separate entity

Don’t blur the lines—protect yourself and your business by keeping finances separate!

How to Get Started

Opening a business bank account is simple and takes only a few steps:

  1. Register Your Business: Use Ownr to incorporate or register your business in minutes.
  2. Choose a Business Bank Account: We recommend RBC as they have accounts catered to entrepreneurs.
    1. RBC Digital Choice Business Account 
    2. RBC Flex Choice Business Account 
  3. Keep Business & Personal Expenses Separate: Use your business account for all income and expenses to maintain financial clarity.

If you haven’t opened a separate business bank account yet, now is the time! It’s a small step that has huge benefits—from smoother bookkeeping to building business credit and preparing for tax season with ease.

Ready to make your business finances stress-free? Open your business account today and set yourself up for success!

New U.S. Tariffs on Canada – Implications & Strategies for Small Businesses

On February 1, 2025, the United States implemented a 25% tariff on imports from Canada, citing concerns over illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and trade imbalances. This move has significant implications for Canadian small businesses engaged in cross-border trade.

Potential Impacts on Small Businesses:

  1. Increased Import Costs: The 25% tariff elevates the cost of importing U.S. goods, leading to higher expenses for Canadian businesses that rely on these products.

  2. Supply Chain Disruptions: Tariffs may cause delays and necessitate finding alternative suppliers, potentially leading to shortages or longer lead times.

  3. Competitive Disadvantages: Businesses exporting to the U.S. might face reduced demand as American consumers opt for less expensive domestic alternatives.

  4. Industry-Specific Challenges: Sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, and retail, which are heavily dependent on cross-border trade, could experience significant disruptions.

  5. Risk of Retaliatory Tariffs: The Canadian government has indicated plans to impose retaliatory tariffs on U.S. imports, which could further strain businesses involved in bilateral trade.

Preparation Strategies for Small Businesses:

  • Stay Informed: Regularly consult official sources like the Government of Canada’s trade updates to stay abreast of policy changes. Knowing all the facts will help you to make sound decisions.  Additional resources to follow are BDC, Global Affairs Canada and local news outlets to stay in the know.

  • Explore Local Suppliers: Investigate domestic alternatives to U.S. suppliers to mitigate tariff-related costs.

  • Advocate for and Research Fair Trade Policies: Engage with industry associations to support initiatives aimed at fair trade practices. Look into Made In Canada directories, or Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) for domestic alternatives. Engage with organizations such as the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and Startup Canada to be a part of their advocacy.

  • Diversify Revenue Streams: Consider expanding into new markets or offering new products to reduce reliance on U.S. trade. Learn more through Export Development Canada (EDC) or by using e-commerce platforms like Shopify for global sales.  Use Canada Tariff Finder to find countries with free-trade agreements with Canada.

By proactively addressing these challenges, small businesses can better navigate the evolving trade landscape and maintain resilience in their operations.

Top 10 Resources Every Startup Woman Needs in 2025

As a woman entrepreneur, you’re juggling multiple roles and wearing countless hats to grow your business. The right tools can make all the difference in saving time, streamlining operations, and helping you scale efficiently. Here are the top 10 resources every entrepreneur should have in 2025 to set your business up for success.

1. Ownr

Start smart with business registration.
Launching your business begins with making it official. Ownr simplifies the process of registering your business in Canada. From sole proprietorships to corporations, Ownr offers a step-by-step platform to ensure you’re off to a solid start. Plus, they often partner with financial institutions for discounts on banking services!

2. LearnWorlds

Monetize your expertise with ease.

Turn your knowledge into a revenue stream with LearnWorlds, a powerful platform for creating, marketing, and selling online courses. Whether you’re a coach, consultant, or seasoned entrepreneur, LearnWorlds makes it easy to design engaging courses, build a professional website, and connect with your audience—all in one seamless platform. Empower your business by sharing your expertise and generating income while doing what you love!

3. Zensurance

Protect your business.
Insurance isn’t just a box to check—it’s peace of mind. Zensurance makes getting business insurance easy and affordable. With policies tailored to startups, you can protect your operations, inventory, and intellectual property with ease.

4. Xero

Master your finances.
Say goodbye to accounting headaches with Xero. This user-friendly software helps you manage your books, track expenses, and generate financial reports. Its seamless integration with bank feeds and third-party apps ensures you stay organized and ready for tax season.

5. StreamYard

Create captivating content.
Whether you’re hosting webinars, live-streaming, or recording content, StreamYard is a game-changer. Its intuitive platform makes it easy to go live across multiple social media channels, connect with your audience, and repurpose recordings for other content needs.

6. Constant Contact

Email marketing made easy.
Stay connected with your customers and leads using Constant Contact. With easy-to-use templates, automation options, and powerful analytics, you can create impactful email campaigns that build loyalty and drive sales.

7. Shopify

E-commerce done right.
If selling online is part of your plan, Shopify is the gold standard. Its robust platform lets you build an online store, manage inventory, and process payments with ease. With tools for marketing and analytics, Shopify is the ultimate partner for scaling your e-commerce business.

8. Google Workspace

Stay organized and connected.
Simplify your work with Google Workspace. From Gmail and Google Drive to Calendar and Docs, this suite of tools keeps your communications, documents, and scheduling in sync. Bonus: its cloud-based platform ensures you can work from anywhere.

9. Later

Streamline your social media.
Social media is a vital part of growing your brand, but it doesn’t have to take up all your time. Later lets you schedule posts, plan your content visually, and track analytics—all from one platform. Stay consistent and save precious hours every week!

10. Canadian Small Business Women YouTube Channel

Learn for FREE!
The best resource? Knowledge! The Canadian Small Business Women YouTube Channel offers over 100 videos tailored for entrepreneurs. From marketing tips to funding strategies, this treasure trove of insights is 100% free and invaluable for any stage of your journey.

Conclusion
As a startup woman in 2025, you have access to an incredible array of tools designed to help you succeed. By leveraging these resources, you’ll save time, increase productivity, and focus on what truly matters—growing your business and living your entrepreneurial dream.

What are your must-have resources? 

5 reasons why customer loyalty is so important in 2024

We live in a fast-paced, hyper connected world. Technology is constantly changing the way we do things, we have instant access to people and products. In business, we need to recognize this hyper connectivity and change because it means that customer loyalty is more important than ever.

Here are 5 reasons why customer loyalty is so important in 2024 and what that means for your overall marketing strategy.

#1: Cost-Effective Marketing

Getting new customers to discover you can be hard. It always takes a bigger investment in advertising and promotional activities to break through all the noise to let someone know you exist. However, retaining existing customers is more cost-effective. Loyal customers are more likely to make repeat purchases, which can be a higher return on your marketing investment.

Build loyalty programs into your current marketing strategy so you have constant touch points with existing customers. This is why personalized email strategies and ongoing social media strategies are so important. If you’re not sure what types of tactics will keep the conversation going, doing VIP shopping events for existing customers and other special offers are great ways to find reasons to connect.

#2: Amplified Word-of-Mouth Marketing

Get on those reviews. Ask for them. Respond to them. Get on it. I cannot tell you how many times a review has influenced my purchase decision. Loyal customers who have had positive experiences with a brand are usually more than willing to share their recommendations with friends, family, and followers. These organic endorsements carry significant weight and can reach a wide audience. This will also then help you to connect with new customers at a lower cost.

How do you do it? Ask for reviews. In your post-purchase emails, send a link to get a Google review. Or if it’s a larger purchase, ask for a testimonial (either written or video) via email. The worst that can happen is they ghost you or say no. But that’s not the end of the world. Best case, they do a glowing review that influences someone else’s purchase. It’s worth the ask.

#3: Resilience During Economic Uncertainty

We’re just coming out the pandemic and many businesses didn’t recover. Outside of that, economic downturns and market fluctuations are just inevitable realities of the business world. If you have worked to build up your customer loyalty, it can make it easier to get through those difficult times. Customers tend to fiercely support the businesses they are loyal to.

Remember that it can’t be a one-way street. You need to show your customers that you are grateful for their loyalty – reward them for their loyalty. Things like discounts and free gifts with their purchase are great, but sometimes even just acknowledging their loyalty and saying a simple thank you goes a long way.

#4: Customer Feedback

One of the things that comes up a lot during workshops with entrepreneurs at various stages is customer feedback. If you’re just getting started you don’t have a customer base to ask, but if you have an existing customer base – especially if you have taken the time to build loyal customer relationships – they can provide you with constructive feedback and insights. This can help to improve products, services, and the overall customer experience. By fostering open communication channels with loyal customers, businesses can gain invaluable insights into their preferences, pain points, and areas for improvement. This feedback loop enables businesses to continuously iterate and innovate, staying ahead of the competition and meeting evolving customer needs effectively.

#5: Enhanced Customer Lifetime Value

Customer lifetime value (CLV) measures the total revenue generated by a customer over their entire relationship with a business. Loyal customers tend to have a higher CLV compared to one-time purchasers or occasional buyers. By nurturing customer loyalty and fostering long-term relationships, businesses can maximize the lifetime value of each customer, driving sustainable revenue growth and profitability.

It should always come down to better relationships with your customers. Marketing is all about customers. From standing out among the crowd to making things more cost effective, 2024 is the time to start focusing on getting and maintaining a customer loyalty.

 

Candace Huntly is the Founder at SongBird Marketing Communications, an award-winning agency working to take organizational and individual brands to the next level. With a passion for all things related to creativity and strategy, she specializes in media relations, influencer marketing, organic community engagement, content, and adapting strategies for any sized business – large or small. Basically, if you need to put your brand, product, or cause in the public eye, she will find a way to do it, while making the approach unique to you.

Connect with Candace

Sign up for our free 20-minute consultation and we’ll help you figure things out.

A version of this article was originally posted to the SongBird Marketing Communications blog.

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6 Essential Tips for Small Business Success

It’s impossible to look around you and NOT see the impact small businesses have in communities and on the economy. The big question is what are you doing to support those small business owners who are making an impact? And from a business owner perspective, are you doing everything you can to have a successful run with your business?

Here are 6 tips for small business success.

Don’t be afraid to get started

You’ll never know success (or failure…) if you don’t just take that first step. Whether you are considering a new marketing tactic for your business or you are considering just getting started with your business, not taking that first step is definitely the safe thing to do, but you also won’t be able to work towards the success you have always dreamed of.

One of the best things you can do for yourself if you’re uneasy is to create a solid foundation for launch. Build a strategy and have a plan in place so you don’t feel like you are guessing along the way.

Learn to talk about the value you bring to the table

Especially in the beginning, you need to tell people how great you are. A lot of people are uncomfortable with talking about themselves, so they just don’t. But if you aren’t talking about yourself (AKA marketing!) then nobody will buy from you because they won’t know you exist. There is a difference between bragging and selling. As a business you have to find that happy medium. Just today I was talking to a client that is uncomfortable with the amount of content that goes out on social media because she feels like it’s just noise. My response is that content itself isn’t noise, but what you put out there CAN be. So when you are marketing your business always consider what value you are bringing to the table.

Don’t try to be all things to all people

Running a business is the same as making friends as an individual; not everyone is going to like you. You can’t be all things to all people so it’s important to figure out exactly who your target audience is and build a strategy around that. It’s always best to start with a targeted niche and then grow your audience as your business grows. You’ll find that your marketing budget will go further if you don’t have to create several different campaigns to reach different audiences – and you can have a laser focus on who you are as a business.

Have an online presence – and nurture it

The world went online. Are you there? We’re at the point where you’ll be hard pressed to find any business that will get started and thrive without any sort of online presence. Don’t like social media? That’s fine, you at least need to have a website. Don’t want to have a blog? That’s fine, focus on making your product and service description pages the best they can be.

Most consumers will spend time online trying to find out more about a company before purchasing from them. You may think that your audience doesn’t search online, but you also may be cutting yourself off from opportunities then.

Celebrate, celebrate, celebrate

I will always maintain that small business owners need to celebrate every single thing that happens, whether big or small. Owning a business is a rollercoaster and those high points will carry you through the doubts and fears of the low points. Celebrate every sale, every connection, every positive review, every like on your social media content… everything.

Believe in what you do

There will be points in your journey that you need to support your own dreams. You also need to be passionate about what you do so you actually enjoy going into work every day. But the biggest thing is that if you don’t believe in what you do, then it will be hard for you to get your target audience on board.

 

Candace Huntly is the Founder at SongBird Marketing Communications, an award-winning agency working to take organizational and individual brands to the next level. With a passion for all things related to creativity and strategy, she specializes in media relations, influencer marketing, organic community engagement, content, and adapting strategies for any sized business – large or small. Basically, if you need to put your brand, product, or cause in the public eye, she will find a way to do it, while making the approach unique to you.

Connect with Candace

Sign up for our free 20-minute consultation and we’ll help you figure things out.

A version of this article was originally posted to the SongBird Marketing Communications blog.

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How To Run A Gift Guide Campaign For The Holidays

The holiday season is often the busiest time for many businesses. While there are a lot of ways for businesses to stand out with their marketing, getting included in gift guides can create a bigger push for sales. It’s also great for general visibility among your target audience.

So how do you get your product included in holiday gift guides? Here is everything you need to know.

#1: Get to know your audience

It should always start out with who your customer is. But when it comes to pitching media or creators, you need to look at who THEIR audience is. Your audiences should match up so your product/service will resonate with their readers/followers. Most outlets and creators that are worth working with won’t include products and services that aren’t a good fit. So if you just blanket pitch everyone, you’re wasting your time and theirs.

Once you have created your pitch list, you also need to decide what you want from them. What’s the ask? What are your overall goals for the campaign? Figuring this out early on can help you shape your campaign so it’s more successful.

#2: Get your product and visuals ready

You need to make sure you have everything together BEFORE you start pitching. This way, if your contacts ask for a sample or images, you can send them over right away. Sometimes you may find someone on a tight deadline and if they have to wait for photos, you could miss out on the opportunity. You should have a handful of high-resolution images to choose from. It’s standard practice to have both product shots on a white background as well as lifestyle shots. Not every outlet is looking for the same thing. 

In terms of product samples to send out, realize that most will not be returned to you. You should have packaging and your processes ready to go so you can pop a package in the mail on a quick turn around. For holiday gift guides it can also be great to get a little fancy with your packaging so opening the product is an experience in itself. Have a peek at this blog on PR packages to get some ideas!

#3: Get your messaging ready

One key to a great campaign is consistency, so having those key messages ready to go is super important. Remember to keep it simple. You don’t necessarily want to dictate what a journalist or creator says about your brand and product, but you should give them a few important things to include. Make sure you include the following:

  • Product description
  • retail price point 
  • Where can the item be purchased (online and in store)? 
  • Product dimensions
  • Sizing, colours, etc

#4: Build relationships

Your campaign should be built on strong relationships. Any work you do with an outlet should be for mutually beneficial outcomes. This is why it’s so important to identify and reach out to key contacts after you have identified the right target audience(s). In order to communicate effectively you need to ensure you are creating a compelling pitch and story angle as well as personalizing your pitches so they are tailored to each outlet/journalist. Personalization is key for any relationship to build and grow.

#5: Timing and Planning

While there are some gift guide media that will work on short turn around times, others, like magazines will need 4 – 6 months lead time. Even now, I am getting requests for gift guide pitches from media and content creators and it’s September. So when we say it’s not too early to start your holiday marketing, we definitely mean it’s not too early. 

Build your timeline based on your target journalists and creators and then make sure you prepare for any follow ups and potential media inquiries. Setting up and mailing out your product will take time and you want to ensure that things happen quickly once a request has been made.

#6 Common Challenges

These types of campaigns aren’t without their challenges. Here are a few common ones to look out for:

  • Rejection and setbacks: You might love your product, but that doesn’t mean every outlet will say yes. In fact, things may just not go as you hoped. It’s important that you don’t take it personally. You could ask why they aren’t interested. Regardless it’s important not to dwell on it and just move on.
  • Adjusting strategies based on feedback and results: What worked? What didn’t? Your campaign won’t become successful overnight. Sometimes you need to take the feedback you get and adjust your pitch and your approach.
  • Stay positive, stay consistent: Through setbacks and the rejections, you need to maintain consistency in your strategy. This can be challenging.

Are you planning on doing a gift guide campaign this year? 

 

Candace Huntly is the Founder at SongBird Marketing Communications, an award-winning agency working to take organizational and individual brands to the next level. With a passion for all things related to creativity and strategy, she specializes in media relations, influencer marketing, organic community engagement, content, and adapting strategies for any sized business – large or small. Basically, if you need to put your brand, product, or cause in the public eye, she will find a way to do it, while making the approach unique to you.

Connect with Candace

Sign up for our free 20-minute consultation and we’ll help you figure things out.

A version of this article was originally posted to the SongBird Marketing Communications blog.

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