Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast! In today’s episode, we’re focusing on a critical aspect of small business operations—cybersecurity. As cyber threats evolve, protecting sensitive data and maintaining secure digital environments has become essential for every entrepreneur. We’re excited to have Amisha Parikh with us today! As the Vice President of Security Solutions at Mastercard, Amisha brings a wealth of knowledge on how small businesses can enhance their cybersecurity strategies and protect their operations against rising cyber risks.

Key Highlights:

🔹 Understanding Cyber Threats: An overview of the current landscape of cybersecurity threats impacting SMEs, and why it’s crucial for businesses to stay ahead.

🔹 Practical Solutions for Cybersecurity: Amisha shares actionable strategies and tools that can help small businesses safeguard their data and maintain trust with their customers.

🔹 Support from Mastercard: Insights into how Mastercard’s Security Solutions offer comprehensive support for SMEs, enabling them to focus on growth with peace of mind.

Special thanks to our partners—

RBC:https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.html
UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA
Constant Contact: https://www.constantcontact.com/landing1/new-marketer?utm_campaign=canadiansme&utm_medium=sponsorlogo&utm_source=brand
IHG Hotels and Resorts: https://businessedge.ihg.com/s/registration?language=en_US&CanSME
Google: https://www.google.ca/

📧 Contact us at info@canadiansme.ca or 416-655-0205 to learn more about our episodes. For our latest insights and more expert advice, subscribe to CanadianSME Small Business Magazine at www.canadiansme.ca.

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast! In this episode, we explore the impact of the new CAPSA guidelines on small business retirement and savings plans. These changes are crucial for small businesses looking to offer competitive benefits while maintaining compliance.

Our guest today is Bernadette Chik, Leader of the Defined Contribution (DC) Advisory Business and senior consultant at Mercer Canada. With over 20 years of experience in consulting and a CFA designation, Bernadette specializes in helping small and midsized organizations optimize their retirement plans. Her expertise provides valuable insights into how small businesses can navigate these guidelines.

• Governance Updates: How to create accountability and future-proof governance processes.
• Member Education: Innovative ways to enhance member education on retirement plans and financial literacy.
• Proactive Risk Management: Practical steps to adopt a proactive approach to risk management.
• Challenges and Opportunities: Key areas where small business sponsors can innovate and grow under the new guidelines.

A special thank you to Bernadette Chik for sharing her expertise on these vital updates and their implications for small business plan sponsors!

Shoutout to our sponsors for more information find their links below:

RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.html

UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA

Constant Contact: https://www.constantcontact.com/landing1/new-marketer?utm_campaign=canadiansme&utm_medium=sponsorlogo&utm_source=brand

IHG Hotels and Resorts: https://businessedge.ihg.com/s/registration?language=en_US&CanSME

Google: https://www.google.ca/

Don’t forget to subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine at www.canadiansme.ca for more insightful episodes that empower your entrepreneurial spirit!

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast! In this episode, we tackle a critical issue facing small businesses—cybersecurity. With increasing threats such as ransomware and third-party risks, it's essential to stay prepared. We’ll explore practical strategies for closing the cybersecurity preparedness gap, leveraging GenAI for enhanced security, and how collaboration can strengthen defenses.

Joining us today is Naren Kalyanaraman, Partner, Cybersecurity Privacy and Financial Crime National Leader at PwC Canada. With years of experience advising global institutions on cybersecurity risks and compliance, Naren brings a wealth of knowledge that can help small businesses navigate today’s cybersecurity challenges.

• Top Cyber Threats for Small Businesses: How to stay protected and improve cloud security, manage vendors, and prevent ransomware attacks.
• Leveraging GenAI: The role of artificial intelligence in cybersecurity and how small businesses can use it responsibly.
• Collaborative Cybersecurity: The importance of industry partnerships and knowledge sharing to build stronger defenses.
• Resource Allocation for Cybersecurity: How small businesses can prioritize their cybersecurity budget for maximum impact.
• Future Trends in Cybersecurity: Key trends that small businesses should prepare for to stay ahead of emerging threats.

A special thanks to Naren Kalyanaraman for sharing his expert insights on the evolving cybersecurity landscape and providing actionable strategies for small businesses!

Shoutout to our sponsors. for more information find their links below:

RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.html

UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA

Constant Contact: https://www.constantcontact.com/landing1/new-marketer?utm_campaign=canadiansme&utm_medium=sponsorlogo&utm_source=brand

IHG Hotels and Resorts: https://businessedge.ihg.com/s/registration?language=en_US&CanSME

Google: https://www.google.ca/

Don’t forget to subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine at www.canadiansme.ca for more insightful episodes that empower your entrepreneurial spirit!

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast! In today’s episode, we dive into the world of email marketing compliance and strategy with Geoffrey Blanc, General Manager at Cyberimpact. With over 18 years in digital solutions, Geoffrey brings a wealth of knowledge, particularly around e-commerce and ERP systems, enriched by his experience managing multidisciplinary teams worldwide.

Key Highlights:

• Email Marketing Compliance: Key regulations like CASL, Bill C-27, and Quebec’s Law 25, and how to stay compliant.
• The Four Pillars of Email Marketing: Segmentation, personalization, deliverability, and compliance—essential for success in 2024-2025.
• Cyberimpact’s Unique Edge: How Cyberimpact compares to global players like Mailchimp, with its focus on Canadian compliance and user-friendly features.
• Future Trends: What’s next in email marketing, and how businesses can stay ahead.

Thank you, Geoffrey, for sharing your expertise and insights. A special thank you to our partners: RBC, UPS, Xero, Constant Contact, and IHG Hotels & Resorts for their support.

And a special shoutout to our sponsors for making this episode possible. For more resources, find their links below:

RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.html
UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA
Constant Contact: https://www.constantcontact.com/landing1/new-marketer?utm_campaign=canadiansme&utm_medium=sponsorlogo&utm_source=brand
IHG Hotels and Resorts: https://businessedge.ihg.com/s/registration?language=en_US&CanSME
Google: https://www.google.ca/

For more expert insights, subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine at www.canadiansme.ca. Join us next time as we bring more valuable strategies to help your business grow.

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, your go-to source for the latest trends, insights, and strategies to empower Canadian small businesses. Today, we’re focusing on critical topics like women in business, succession planning, and how brands can differentiate themselves in a competitive market. With small businesses forming the core of Canada's economy, insights on leading transitions and crafting a unique brand identity are invaluable.

Our guest today, Elyse Boulet, exemplifies visionary leadership. With over 30 years of expertise in the communications industry, Elyse has a remarkable track record of driving transformative growth. She recently embarked on a new chapter, acquiring Pigeon Brands in partnership with Kairos Capital. Elyse’s entrepreneurial spirit and strategic vision have made her a leading figure in the field, and her insights on creative leadership promise to inspire.

Key Highlights:

1. Women in Business: Elyse shares her thoughts on the importance of women’s leadership in business and how it shapes organizational growth.
2. Succession Planning: Gain Elyse’s perspective on the importance of succession planning and how it ensures long-term stability and success for a business.
3. Standing Out in the Market: Learn from Elyse about the factors that make a brand truly unique and memorable in today's crowded market.
4. The Pigeon Brands Journey: Discover the mission behind Pigeon Brands and how Elyse’s leadership has impacted its evolution and growth.

A big thank you to Elyse Boulet for joining us and sharing her valuable journey and insights. For more on Elyse’s inspiring work, visit Pigeon Brands and learn how visionary leadership can propel a business forward.

Shoutout to our sponsors. For more information, find their links below:

RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.html

UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA

Constant Contact: https://www.constantcontact.com/landing1/new-marketer?utm_campaign=canadiansme&utm_medium=sponsorlogo&utm_source=brand

IHG Hotels and Resorts: https://businessedge.ihg.com/s/registration?language=en_US&CanSME

Google: https://www.google.ca/

Don’t forget to subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine at www.canadiansme.ca for more insightful episodes that empower your entrepreneurial spirit!

Welcome to another episode of the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast! Today, we explore the rise of women entrepreneurs and the essential role of social capital in their success. With 38% of small businesses in Canada owned by women, fostering connections and community has never been more critical for entrepreneurial growth.

Joining us today is Erin Sisko, CEO and Co-Founder of The Elleiance Network. Erin is a serial entrepreneur with a background in finance and corporate leadership. She is dedicated to helping women entrepreneurs build social capital to drive business growth. Erin brings her experience as a certified business coach, commercial real estate agent, and business investor to inspire and empower women to unlock their full potential.

• The Rise of Women Entrepreneurs: Erin shares insights into the growing number of women stepping into leadership roles and the factors driving this change in Canada.
• The Importance of Social Capital: Learn why social capital is crucial for business success and how building meaningful connections can help entrepreneurs thrive.
• The Elleiance Network: Discover the mission behind The Elleiance Network and how it’s making a difference in empowering women entrepreneurs through community and mentorship.
• Capital Elle Business Impact Award: Erin talks about the significance of the Capital Elle Business Impact Award and how it supports and recognizes outstanding women entrepreneurs.
• Challenges and Future Trends: Erin provides an inspiring perspective on the biggest challenges women entrepreneurs face today and shares her advice for overcoming them while looking ahead at emerging trends in the entrepreneurial landscape.

A heartfelt thank you to Erin Sisko for joining us on the podcast and sharing her journey, expertise, and the valuable role social capital plays in building successful businesses.

Shoutout to our sponsors. For more information, find their links below:

RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.html

UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA

Constant Contact: https://www.constantcontact.com/landing1/new-marketer?utm_campaign=canadiansme&utm_medium=sponsorlogo&utm_source=brand

IHG Hotels and Resorts: https://businessedge.ihg.com/s/registration?language=en_US&CanSME

Google: https://www.google.ca/

Don’t forget to subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine at www.canadiansme.ca for more insightful episodes that empower your entrepreneurial spirit!

In this insightful episode of the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, we sat down with Steven Wright, President & CEO of Focus, a visionary leader in sales management and CRM solutions. Steven has spent his career honing the art of sales leadership, helping businesses achieve significant growth by optimizing their sales operations and leveraging the right technology. Steven shares his expertise on the critical aspects of sales leadership, the importance of CRM management, overcoming sales challenges, and the long-term benefits of investing in expert sales leadership and technology.

Key Highlights:

• Steven discusses how sales leadership directly impacts a company’s growth and success.
• The critical role of CRM management in streamlining sales operations.
• Common issues sales teams encounter and effective strategies to address them.
• Discussion on the long-term benefits of investing in expert sales leadership and robust CRM systems.
• Steven’s recommendations for selecting and implementing sales technologies that match a business’s needs.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Steven Wright for sharing his invaluable insights and experiences with us. His expertise in sales leadership, CRM management, and the integration of sales technologies provides valuable guidance for businesses looking to refine their sales strategies and achieve long-term growth. We hope this episode has equipped you with the tools and knowledge needed to enhance your sales operations and drive your business forward.

Shoutout to our sponsors for more information find their links below:

RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.html

UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA

Constant Contact: https://www.constantcontact.com/landing1/new-marketer?utm_campaign=canadiansme&utm_medium=sponsorlogo&utm_source=brand

IHG Hotels and Resorts: https://businessedge.ihg.com/s/registration?language=en_US&CanSME

Google: https://www.google.ca/

Don't forget to subscribe to CanadianSME Small Business Magazine at www.canadiansme.ca for more insightful episodes that empower your entrepreneurial spirit.

Welcome to another episode of the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast! In today’s episode, we explore the essential role of branding in the success of small businesses. Understanding how to effectively communicate your brand story can set you apart in a competitive market, leading to stronger connections with your audience and significant growth.

We’re excited to welcome Jared Henriques, the founder of Renga, a brand strategy and design studio. Jared’s passion lies in helping businesses articulate their unique stories through strategy, copy, and design. With his expertise, we dive deep into the world of branding and storytelling.

• The importance of branding for small businesses and common mistakes to avoid.
• How to leverage storytelling to enhance brand presence.
• Key elements for crafting effective pitch decks.
• Actionable steps to integrate branding into marketing strategies.
• Upcoming trends shaping the future of branding for small businesses.

A big thank you to Jared Henriques for sharing his insights and helping small business owners understand the power of branding!

Shoutout to our sponsors for more information find their links below:

RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.html

UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA

Constant Contact: https://www.constantcontact.com/landing1/new-marketer?utm_campaign=canadiansme&utm_medium=sponsorlogo&utm_source=brand

IHG Hotels and Resorts: https://businessedge.ihg.com/s/registration?language=en_US&CanSME

Google: https://www.google.ca/

Don’t forget to subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine at www.canadiansme.ca for more insightful episodes that empower your entrepreneurial spirit!