YES Employment + Entrepreneurship Winter Spring 2023 Program Book

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In order for us to continue to provide high quality workshops and services for

or at affordable prices, we need your support. The government subsidizes only a portion of many of our programs, and there are other services that go unfunded. If you have the means, please consider making a donation so we may continue to be able to offer accessible pricing for all. Each one of the +3,000 individuals who come to YES for support each year (including you!) is important to us, and with your help we can continue to ensure equitable access for everyone’s success.

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Charitable Registration Number: 88872 9050 RR 0001 Tax receipts will be issued for gifts of $10 or more.

YES Employment + Entrepreneurship

666 Sherbrooke West, Suite 700 Montreal, QC H3A 1E7

Business Hours

Tel: 514-878-9788 info@yesmontreal.ca yesmontreal.ca

The YES Centre is once again open for in-person visits! Services are available in-person and online from Monday to Thursday, and online only on Fridays between 9:00am – 5:00pm. The YES Centre is closed on all statutory holidays.

REGISTRATION AND POLICY INFORMATION

Daytime Workshops*

All daytime workshops are available online, in-person or in a hybrid format (option to either attend in person or online).

Evening Workshops*

Evening workshops are available online, in-person or in a hybrid format (option to either attend in person or online) between the hours of 6:30pm – 8:30pm. Pre-registration is mandatory for all evening workshops. In order to avoid disrupting workshops in progress, participants that are more than 10 minutes late will not be admitted. Where there is a fee for a workshop, you may register online at yesmontreal.ca, by phone at 514-878-9788 or at the YES Centre.

Annual Business Service Fee

There is an annual entrepreneurship and artist fee of $30. This will grant you access to specialized services including coaching, Business Bootcamp, legal information, accounting, and conflict resolution clinics for one year.

Cancellation Policy

To cancel or reschedule an appointment, you must provide at least one business day’s notice. If you’re more than 10 minutes late for your appointment, you’ll be required to reschedule. Cancellations for any paid workshop series or French courses must be received two business days before the start of the FIRST workshop in the series. A $15 administration fee for refunds applies. Cancelled or rescheduled appointments require 24 hours notice or there’ll be a $20 fee, which must be paid before the next appointment is scheduled. Your file may be closed if three or more appointments are missed or cancelled. YES may, in its sole discretion, at any time and for any reason listed in the code of conduct or service agreement waiver, suspend your client file. Visit yesmontreal.ca or call 514-878-9788 for more information. Register for our monthly e-newsletter at yesmontreal.ca.

*Schedules and workshop speakers are subject to change. Visit yesmontreal.ca for updates. All workshops are delivered in English.

yesmontreal.ca | 514-878-9788

YES Employment + Entrepreneurship is a not-for-profit organization that enriches the community by providing English-language support services to help Quebecers find employment and start and grow businesses.

Through our ever-expanding range of support services, we can help you find stable employment, launch and grow your business, or turn your artistic talent into a profitable career. Services may be offered online, in person, or in a hybrid format. Format availabilities are indicated for each service throughout this program book.

JOB SEEKERS Open to 18 – 39 year-olds

Looking for work and want to increase your chance of success? Through employment counselling, workshops, and an online resource library, our Employment Program will ensure that you have the interview skills, CV writing abilities, and employment industry insights you need to find and land the job that’s right for you.

ENTREPRENEURS Open to all ages and stages of business

Whether you’re at the business planning stage or looking to expand your existing venture, the Entrepreneurship Program offers practical advice and guidance for you. We offer business coaching, individual or group specialized workshops, legal information and accounting clinics and much more to entrepreneurs at all stages of business development.

ARTISTS Open to artists of all ages and disciplines

You already have the artistic talent and creativity. With our Artist Program you can learn the business skills you need to transform your art into a viable career. You’ll have access to an experienced Artist Coach, informative workshops, as well as an annual conference, accounting advice and legal information. Relevant to artists from all disciplines.

MENTORSHIP SERVICES Open to all ages

Want to gain insight into an industry or career? Our mentorship services make it easy to tap into a wealth of expertise and knowledge and connect with volunteer mentors working across a range of industries. Each of our mentors is on hand to help steer your career in the right direction or help you grow your business or artistic practice. Visit the YES website to fill out a detailed request form on what kind of mentor you would like to meet with to begin the matching process!

We can help you find a job or launch your career!

With over 27 years of experience assisting individuals with their job search, we offer a variety of free employment programs, daytime and evening workshops, and events that help 18-39 year-olds enhance their employability skills, begin their careers, and increase their success in finding employment. We offer:

+ Individual employment and career counselling

+ Strategies for finding employment and career planning

+ Job search preparation and skill-building workshops

CAREER CONSULTS

FREE ONLINE OR IN-PERSON

Monday – Friday

30-minute sessions

Please Note: By appointment only, certain criteria may apply.

+ French classes (for a nominal fee)

+ Paid work experience program

+ Professional development sessions and events

Have a quick question about your CV, cover letter, LinkedIn profile or an upcoming interview?

We offer free drop-in consultations with an employment counsellor to answer any questions you may have pertaining to your job search.

EMPLOYMENT COUNSELLING

FREE ONLINE OR IN-PERSON

Please Note: By appointment only, certain criteria may apply.

We understand that everyone is unique with equally unique job search needs. Because of that, our approach to helping you become employed is also unique.

If you’re searching for work or exploring your career options, our employment counsellors can help you develop a strategy and build on your unique skills to make informed choices about your employment goals. Servicing clients across Quebec, our personalized and supportive approach helps participants not only prepare for their job search, but successfully land a job.

FRENCH FOR THE WORKFORCE

$75

ONLINE ONLY

Wednesdays & Fridays

9:30am – 12:30pm

Session 1

February 1 – March 3

Session 2 April 5 – May 5

Session 3

June 7 – July 7

Please Note: To register, take a short written and oral placement test. By appointment only.

Enhance your job opportunities and become more confident speaking French.

Don’t miss this opportunity to go beyond the basics and improve your professional French, from engaging in conversation, to standing out in your job interviews, to participating in workplace meetings!

You’ll practice key employment elements including writing a cover letter or networking email and navigating your next interview or meeting – all in French! And you’ll learn how to optimize your candidacy with French keywords and industry terminology.

Personalized feedback from your instructor and peers throughout the program will help you continuously improve and track your progress to ensure you reach your language learning goals.

BUILDING SKILLS FOR THE JOB MARKET: YOUTH ON THE RISE

PAID WORK EXPERIENCE PROGRAM

HYBRID FORMAT

For dates and more information please visit yesmontreal.ca.

Please Note: Certain criteria may apply.

Looking for a job but experiencing barriers to employment such as a lack of sufficient education or experience? Want to develop your entry level work skills in a safe space that is both inclusive and supportive?

If you’re between 18 and 30 years of age, this 20-week paid training and entry-level work placement program could be for you!

The Youth on the Rise team will help you improve your communication skills, build your self-confidence, expand your network, connect with potential employers, and succeed in a job interview.

Those accepted must commit to full-time participation for a 20-week period. The program includes employability and life-skills training, as well as a work placement. Participants are paid for the duration of the program.

WOMEN

QUEBEC - WERQ

Cohort 1 January 9 – February 10

For more cohort dates and information please visit yesmontreal.ca.

Please Note: Certain criteria may apply.

Women Employment Readiness Quebec (WERQ) is an employability skills program designed to help women and non-binary folks aged 18+ who are racialized, part of 2SLGBTQIA+, neurodiverse or living with a physical disability, or who have been out of the workforce for an extended amount of time.

As the first of its kind in Canada, this program will equip you to increase your chances of upward mobility in any environment. Chosen participants will attend five weeks of training around the themes of Getting Hired, Building Your Network, Career Planning, Sharpening Your Employment Skills, and Moving Towards the Future. By providing these resources and mentorship, we’re prepping you with tools for your interview with forward-thinking employers.

FREE ONLINE ONLY

Mondays

January 9, 30, February 20, March 13, April 3, 24, May 15, June 5 & 26

10:00am – 11:30am

Your professional identity contributes to your self-confidence, well-being, and overall career evolution. For this reason, it’s vital to learn how to make the right career decisions for you.

In this webinar, you’ll participate in self-assessment exercises to determine your professional values, interests, personality traits, skills, needs, and wants. You will then be guided on how to use decision trees, informational interviews, and pros and cons lists to make decisions that will contribute to your career identity.

Join us to translate your uniqueness into valuable, straightforward career insights!

FREE

ONLINE ONLY

Tuesdays

January 10, 31, February 21, March 14, April 4, 25, May 16, June 6 & 27

10:00am – 11:30am

Don’t risk being passed over!

Today’s employers require resumes, cover letters, and online applications to meet certain standards and criteria. In this webinar, you’ll learn how to stand out and increase your chances of landing a job interview by using keywords, data and accomplishments.

FREE ONLINE ONLY

Mondays

January 16, February 6, 27, March 20, May 1 & June 12

10:00am – 11:30am

Do you know the difference between your resume and your LinkedIn profile and why both matter? How about how to leverage LinkedIn to supercharge your network?

This webinar looks at how you can learn to craft a strategic headline, write an engaging career story in the About section, and, earn skills, endorsements, and recommendations. Along with our assistance in writing connection requests, you’ll also learn how to spark and nurture professional relationships and create a compelling personal brand. Over 90% of recruiters are actively recruiting on LinkedIn so don’t miss this opportunity to leverage your LinkedIn profile.

NEW! BASIC SALARY NEGOTIATION AND YOUR CAREER

FREE ONLINE ONLY

Tuesdays

January 17, February 7, 28, March 21, April 11, May 2, 23 & June 13

10:00am – 11:30am

What are different ways to answer the interview question “What are your salary expectations”?

Learn how to research your target salary, highlight your accomplishments, find the right words, and build the confidence you need to negotiate a higher salary during the offer stage. Plus, how to get it in writing. How to ask for a raise once you are hired will also be addressed during this webinar.

JOB INTERVIEWS: PREP AND PRACTICE

FREE

ONLINE ONLY

Mondays

January 23, February 13, March 6, 27, April 17, May 8, 29 & June 19

10:00am – 11:30am

Preparation is crucial to a successful job interview.

Learn what steps you can take to make a positive impression and better prepare for an in-person, Zoom, or phone interview. Find out which behavioural interview questions employers are most likely to ask, and how to answer them using the STAR method.

WHERE THE JOBS ARE: THE HIDDEN JOB MARKET

FREE ONLINE ONLY

Tuesdays

January 24, February 14, March 7, 28, April 18, May 9, 30 & June 20

10:00am – 11:30am

Most jobs are found by accessing the hidden job market – not by looking at job boards!

The best way to access the hidden job market is through nurturing professional connections via social media, volunteering, attending events, and meet-ups. You’ll learn how to meet new people to enlarge your network, conduct informational interviews/coffee meetings, and successfully start and develop professional relationships.

CAREER NIGHTS

FREE

Career Night 1 HYBRID FORMAT

Monday, February 6

2:00pm – 4:00pm

Career Night 2 ONLINE ONLY

Thursday, March 23

6:30pm – 8:00pm

Career Night 3 ONLINE ONLY

Thursday, April 20

6:30pm – 8:00pm

CAREER NIGHT 1: APPLYING FOR JOBS IN THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION OF CANADA

Did you know that the Public Service Commission of Canada supports departments and agencies in hiring qualified individuals into and within the public service? In this information session, you’ll learn how to apply to postings, answer pre-screening questions, what to include in your resume and cover letter, and how to prepare for the interview process. The representative will also explain second language requirements for working in the Canadian government and how candidates are evaluated.

CAREER NIGHT 2: EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION: SOFT SKILLS AND BEYOND

Effective communication is more than just transferring information from one person or place to another; it’s about building relationships, creating opportunities and partnerships, and above all, focusing on clarity and connection. Effective communication is the superpower of impactful leaders and respected team members.

You’ll learn about the guiding principles of excellent communication, including but not limited to: active listening, navigating complex conversations respectfully, understanding communication styles, persuasion, emotional intelligence, and empathy.

CAREER NIGHT 3: STAYING MOTIVATED LONG-TERM

It can be as simple as being thirsty and grabbing a glass of water to quench your thirst or something more complex like working continuously to gain a university degree or pursuing a dream job over the long-term. Many of us can relate to the fact that we’ve felt unmotivated at one point or another. But what does that really mean? When we say we are feeling unmotivated or struggling to find the motivation to do something, that’s because we are lacking in either focus, persistence, energy, or goals.

Let’s connect to help you understand motivation, and the factors that contribute to its increase and decrease over time.

For pricing and details, please call 514-878-9788.

JOB BOARD

FREE

Need your CV and cover letter professionally translated?

Submit your electronic document to info@yesmontreal.ca and your English to French translation will be ready within seven to ten business days.

Sign up for our Job Board, upload your CV and apply for job postings directly on our site. You’ll be able to create a free profile, post your CV, and be seen by the industry’s top companies. Whether you’re looking for a full-time job, summer job, part-time job or an internship, our job postings are updated daily so be sure to check frequently.

CAREER TESTING SERVICES

For pricing and details, please call 514-878-9788. FREE

Not sure what career path you want to follow? Or, maybe you’re at a career crossroad? We use two standardized tests to help you explore different career options that match your skills, personality type, values, and interests. Together with a career advisor, you’ll examine your interests, personality preferences and clarify your career objectives. Career testing is offered on an individual basis.

MENTORSHIP FOR JOB SEEKERS

Looking for a mentor in engineering, human resources, marketing, or other fields? We offer an online platform that makes it even simpler for you to connect with professionals from different industries.

New mentors are added regularly, so be sure to visit the YES website at yesmontreal.ca/find-a-mentor and fill out a detailed request form on what kind of mentor you’d like to meet with to begin the matching process.

See page 30 for additional details.

Ready to launch a new business venture? Expanding your current business or model?

Want to be your own boss?

At YES, we are dedicated to helping you and your business succeed! Our Entrepreneurship Services are open to individuals of any age, whether you’re in the startup or growth phase of your business. If you need sales and marketing advice or have questions about financing options and resources, our coaching, workshops, and seminars are designed to give you the information you need to take your business idea to the next level.

JUMP START YOUR BUSINESS AND FINANCING OPTIONS

FREE HYBRID FORMAT

Wednesdays

2:00pm – 3:30pm

Please Note: Those wishing to obtain business coaching services are encouraged to attend this free workshop first.

I have an idea for a business, but where do I start?

If you’re trying to figure out what you should do now or where to start your entrepreneurial journey in Quebec, we strongly encourage you to begin with this free workshop.

First, you’ll learn the necessary steps to develop your startup ideas, evaluate their potential, test them with customers in real life, and avoid costly mistakes. You’ll also gain insight into funding options in Quebec that are available to you and receive guidance on how to organize, run, market, finance, monetize, and grow your new business.

Taking what you’ve learned, you’ll be able to start putting your ideas into action, or at least find out where to start so you can plan how to put your ideas into action.

15-MINUTE ONE-ON-ONE BUSINESS COACHING CONSULT

FREE ONLINE OR IN-PERSON

To book a business coaching consult, please call 514-878-9788 ext. 316 or email jpatel@yesmontreal.ca

Please Note: By appointment only.

Whatever challenges you’re facing with your business, you don’t have to face them alone!

Book your free one-on-one consultation with one of our business coaches to discuss your needs or receive insight on a current business challenge or opportunity. We’ll identify the options that are best suited to your situation and help you make informed decisions.

BUSINESS COACHING SESSIONS

FREE*

ONLINE OR IN-PERSON

To book a business coaching appointment, please call 514-878-9788 ext. 316 or email jpatel@yesmontreal.ca

Please Note: By appointment only.

No matter what stage of development your company is in, entrepreneurs or aspiring ones need to make important decisions on matters from general management to human resources, to finances, and so much more. Fortunately, we’ve overseen these processes countless times before and are ready to do the same for you. Our business coaching services can assist you with:

+ Idea evaluation and sketching a proper business plan

+ Setting up a business in Quebec

+ Importing/exporting, online positioning, franchising, and more

+ Market research, sales, and marketing

+ Advice on financing options and resources

+ Maintaining and growing your business

BUSINESS BOOTCAMP

FREE*

HYBRID FORMAT

A new series of daytime and evening Bootcamps begin regularly. To register for Business Bootcamp, please call 514-878-9788 ext. 316 or email jpatel@yesmontreal.ca

Do you know what makes your business unique or how your product or service will meet the needs of future markets and customers?

Do you understand how to generate revenue or the types of expenses your business will have?

Whether you’re a new entrepreneur, self-employed, or have been operating your business for a while, it’s vital to strengthen your business’ core fundamentals. The Business Bootcamp is a four-week intensive training that gives you the tools to describe, analyze, and develop your business model, and prepares you to pitch to investors and backers.

During these weekly, two-hour, high-impact sessions, you’ll become familiarized with the nine key components of the “Business Model Canvas”. Once you’re done, you’ll be able to apply what you learned to your own business model and receive valuable feedback from the group.

*For $30, you’ll have access to specialized services including coaching, Business Bootcamp, legal information, accounting, and conflict resolution clinics for a full year.

STARTUP GENERATOR: PLAN TO ACTION - FIVE-PART SERIES

FREE*

ONLINE ONLY

Thursdays

March 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30

9:30am – 12:00pm

To register for Startup Generator, please call 514-878-9788 ext. 316 or email jpatel@yesmontreal.ca.

Not all businesses are the same, but as with everything in the business world, the key to success is in the planning.

Once you’ve developed your business model, join the Startup Generator to get prepared for the most critical business challenges facing early-stage start-ups, including market research, financial forecasting, pricing strategies, developing an operational team, securing funding, and pitching your business in a succinct way to capture the right target audience.

The Startup Generator is a concentrated, fast-moving program focused on writing your business plan, and creating the necessary documents to secure funding and successfully launch your new business. You’ll attend a series of five workshops consecutively over a five-week period with access to targeted business coaching in between. These workshops offer a combination of brainstorming, education, peer accountability and support in a diverse group environment.

REGISTERING YOUR BUSINESS

FREE ONLINE OR IN-PERSON

Mondays

January 9, 30, February 13, March 6 & April 3

2:00pm – 3:00pm

Xuan He Legal Information Officer

Please Note: Pre-registration is required.

Wondering how to register a business in Quebec?

We’ll show you step-by-step how to register your business with the Quebec government, providing a legal framework to help you through the process. You’ll also learn about the benefits of registering your startup and the different legal structures available, so you can decide which one is right for your business.

*For $30, you’ll have access to specialized services including coaching, Business Bootcamp, legal information, accounting, and conflict resolution clinics for a full year.

ACCOUNTING CLINIC FOR ENTREPRENEURS

FREE*

ONLINE ONLY

Please Note: A YES Business Coach referral is required.

In this monthly clinic, Professional Accountants from MC.CPA are available to provide you with one-on-one information and answer any accounting questions you may have.

This is your opportunity to get free advice on accounting issues, such as record keeping, business valuations, financial statements, and business taxes.

LEGAL INFORMATION CLINIC FOR ENTREPRENEURS

FREE*

ONLINE OR IN-PERSON

Mondays & Wednesdays

2:00pm – 5:00pm

Xuan He

Legal Information Officer

Please Note: A YES Business Coach referral is required.

Legal information questions keeping you up at night? Take advantage of our free, weekly legal information clinics for entrepreneurs.

The last thing you want to encounter are legal issues, so it makes sense to understand your legal risks and options. Our Legal Information Officer is available to provide information and answer questions related to business issues, such as business structures, contract law, taxation, and intellectual property.

Please note that the Legal Information Officer can only provide general information and cannot provide anything that constitutes legal advice.

CONFLICT RESOLUTION CLINIC

FREE*

ONLINE ONLY

Wednesdays

1:00pm – 4:00pm

Please Note: A YES Business Coach referral is required.

Experiencing conflict is a part of everyday life, but how we deal with it can greatly impact the outcome. We’re all after a common goal. We want to grow, develop, and succeed.

In our free conflict resolution clinic for entrepreneurs, a Conflict Resolution Coach will answer your questions and provide you with one-on-one guidance to successfully navigate a conflict you’re experiencing right now. You’ll learn how to identify and remove barriers, repair and strengthen relationships, and create win-win outcomes. We’ll also look at creative problem-solving techniques and practice compassionate curiosity, so you can keep your professional relationships strong and growing.

*For $30, you’ll have access to specialized services including coaching, Business Bootcamp, legal information, accounting, and conflict resolution clinics for a full year.

$20

ONLINE ONLY

Tuesday, January 17

6:30pm – 8:30pm

Maria Durant

Certified Bookkeeper & Vocational Accounting Teacher

ESSENTIALS

BUSINESS

The foundation of a solid business starts with bookkeeping. It’s a crucial step that lets you monitor the growth of your business, build financial statements, keep track of deductible expenses, prepare tax returns, and legitimize your filings. But it’s often overlooked. Even when outsourcing your bookkeeping operations, you should know the fundamentals.

Gain a better understanding of what bookkeeping is, the roles of Bookkeepers vs. Accountants, the elements of setting up your bookkeeping, from getting your business number to GST/QST, to filing your taxes, and the pros and cons of the top three software.

Understanding these steps will give you the confidence to know you’ve covered your bases.

$20

HYBRID FORMAT

Tuesday, January 24

6:30pm – 8:30pm

Larry Markowitz

BCL, LLB, Senior Advisor, Financial Communications and Investor Relations, National Public Relations

Your company email suddenly goes offline; you can no longer access your computer files. There’s an explosion in your factory; employees are injured. Cash flow dries up; you are forced to file for bankruptcy protection. Allegations of inappropriate behaviour by members of your team appear on the front page of the local newspaper. These are but a few examples of a crisis. Each represents a threat to business continuity, is unexpected, and demands a rapid reaction to regain control.

No organization is immune to a crisis. Since a crisis, by definition, occurs without warning (and seemingly at the worst possible time), the only thing you can do is prepare to face it. A crisis that is poorly managed, or ignored, can impact all aspects of your business. It can represent a reputational risk, have legal repercussions, and become an issue that plays out in the media.

Transparent communication is key to crisis management. Even if you don’t know precisely what led to the current state of affairs, remaining silent is not an option.

Join Larry Markowitz, lawyer and Senior Director at NATIONAL Public Relations, as he guides us through real-life examples of crises, and shows us how to navigate these challenging situations in a calm, collected, and professional manner.

$20

HYBRID FORMAT

Tuesday, February 7

6:30pm – 8:30pm

Marlee Rabin

Founder & CEO, Homie Collection

Companies sell on Amazon for a reason: to reach the hundreds of millions of customers from all over the word who visit Amazon to shop. But how do you get started?

Learn from someone who has already been through the process and get the details on key factors you need to consider before taking the leap to become a seller. You’ll learn about the typical start-up costs and on-going expenses, types of resources available for sellers, how long it might take to see a return on investment, and get an overview of the process of selecting, launching, and selling a product on Amazon.

$20

HYBRID FORMAT

Tuesday, February 14

6:30pm – 8:30pm

Chris Ramoutar

Head of Operations, Encore Travel

As a business owner, do you feel nervous about what the future holds?

Most entrepreneurs have high hopes of seeing their idea or small business turn into a successful, revenue-generating enterprise. But only a few can hit the target.

You might have top quality products and services, but all that is futile if your internal processes are broken, employees work in silos, and you have an unsystematic, unstructured approach to getting work done. This ultimately hampers your business growth. Project management can get you on the right track. It infuses clarity and transparency in your work processes, making them more structured and streamlined.

We’ve all been exposed to project management, but learning the fundamental project management skills will help you take on extraordinary goals.

$20

HYBRID FORMAT

Tuesday, February 28

6:30pm – 8:30pm

Gavin Correa

CPA, CA, CFP, LCA CPA LLP

There are two things that are certain in life, and one of them is taxes.

At this seminar hosted by a representative from LCA, you’ll learn about categories of allowable expenses and deductions, bookkeeping requirements, the process involved in filing your business taxes, the benefits of incorporation, and much more. Walk away feeling empowered this tax season!

SEO FOR BEGINNERS

$20

ONLINE ONLY

Tuesday, March 14

6:30pm – 8:30pm

Tarek Riman Marketer, 5X Best Selling Author, 4X Founder, University Instructor

So, you have a website…now what? Now it must be found!

Search engines are governed by an algorithm that determines your page’s ranking, and this algorithm is constantly changing. As a business owner, entrepreneur, or marketer, you need to be constantly aware of what’ll positively or negatively impact your website’s search results and rankings. Why? Without a strong ranking, you’re making it harder for your future clients to discover you.

You’ll learn the most important current ranking factors, how you can capitalize on these factors to improve your site rankings, how to technically audit your website, and how to perform a content audit on your site.

NEW! HOW TO LAUNCH YOUR OWN CAFÉ OR RESTAURANT

$20 HYBRID FORMAT

Tuesday, March 28

6:30pm – 8:30pm

Isobel Gibson-Flader Founder and Owner, Café Iso Maria de Lourdes Bermudez Co-Founder & Co-Owner, Café Arthur - Canine Café and neighbourhood resto

Dave Evans and André Thériault Co-Founders & Partners, Pizza Bouquet

Elena Matsuo and Dave Cote Co-Founders & Co-Owners, Café Komma Rosta

So you want to launch a cafe or restaurant?

The food and hospitality industry is dynamic, fast-paced, and requires careful planning. Leaping into this highly competitive industry without knowing your business objectives and strategies, financial forecasts, and target market can be a costly mistake.

Come learn some tricks of the trade from the owners of four successful eateries. How they got involved in the business, their industry experience prior to going on their own, what groundwork they did before launching, what they would say to aspiring restauranteurs, how they have managed menus, staff, landlords, food costs, marketing, and COVID ... Bring your questions!

$20

HYBRID FORMAT

Tuesday, April 4

6:30pm – 8:30pm

Gabriel Faubert

Founder, Nordic Peace

E-commerce is, in the simplest of terms, the buying and selling of products through the internet. There has been a simultaneous increase in both consumers buying products online and stores selling their products online. This means that while more people are shopping, the competition is more fierce than ever.

We will discuss tips, tricks, tools and strategies on how you can make your first 100 sales online, retain customers, market to new customers and more. Join us for this interactive discussion on all things e-commerce and you’ll learn the fundamentals of operating a successful online shop.

SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP FOR A BETTER WORLD: 3-PART WORKSHOP SERIES

$20 per workshop

ONLINE ONLY

Workshop 1

Tuesday, April 11

6:30pm – 8:30pm

Farshad Rouhani

Entrepreneur & YES Business Coach

Niels Bilou

Founder & CEO, The Humanos Institute

Aileen Borruel

Social Worker & Going-to-be Social Entrepreneur

Workshop 2

Tuesday, April 18

6:30pm – 8:30pm

Florence So Counsel, nNovation LLP

Kurt Houghton

Director of Consulting and Financing Services in the Social Economy, PME Kevin Dugal

Entrepreneurial Communities Manager, Futurepreneur

Workshop 3

Tuesday, April 25

6:30pm – 8:30pm

Shaleen Ratansi CEO, AiyaAiya

Anie Rouleau

Founder & CEO, The Unscented Company

Ashley Phillips & Miro La Flaga

Co-Founders, Sixcinquieme

Social entrepreneurship combines the passion of making social or environmental impact with profit-making ambitions. Quebec’s social economy represents over 11,200 enterprises with overall sales exceeding 47.8 billion dollars.

The spirit of a social enterprise goes beyond money. “Do good, earn good!” Join this three-part series to learn how to design, establish, launch, and grow a social enterprise that has a positive community impact and generates revenue from subject-matter experts and social entrepreneurs.

WORKSHOP 1: RUN A SOCIAL ENTERPRISE: PAIRING IMPACT AND PROFIT

Social enterprises have become mainstream rather than a peculiar vague structure just to do social or environmental good. From the familiar sphere of circular economy to clean tech, vegan luxury, and bigger dreams like carbon economy, the variety of activities is growing. This workshop will help you learn how to build impactful and profitable social enterprises through the lens of business and impact model innovation.

WORKSHOP 2: ESTABLISHMENT AND FUNDING

Many entrepreneurs are turning towards collective businesses to find innovative solutions to our social and environmental problems. In Montreal alone there are nearly 2,780 social economy businesses. However, there are still a lot of questions around establishing a social enterprise.

Choosing the right type of legal entity to register is perplexing. Should it be an incorporation (Quebec vs. Federal), a nonprofit, or a charity? What is the emerging notion of B-Corp? And then how about blood in the veins funding? What organizations can help? What are the eligibility criteria for funding? Get the answers to these questions and more in this workshop.

WORKSHOP 3: SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURS PANEL

Join the panel of social entrepreneurs to hear their experiences, stories of uphills and downhills, and how they’re running their impact-oriented business while thriving financially. In this Q&A panel, we’ll follow social entrepreneurs’ journey through gruesome chasms. From designing the business, validation and go-to-market, all the way to gaining traction and growth.

$20

HYBRID FORMAT

Tuesday, May 30

6:30pm – 8:30pm

Danica Virginia Meredith

Emerging Practice Lead (Growth and Innovation Strategist, Organizational Change Coach)

As an enterprise navigates growth and innovation, it must consider how to set itself apart and differentiate in a crowded market.

This workshop will help you to focus your offering and find the gaps that your clients need in order to create the elusive ‘white space’ and develop a Blue Ocean Strategy. Applying this concept will enable you to create and capture uncontested market space, thereby making your competition irrelevant. You’ll also learn how to leverage your ecosystem and community in order to finesse your growth plan and scale sustainably.

$20

ONLINE ONLY

Tuesday, June 6

6:30pm – 8:30pm

AJ (Amanda) Specht Founder, grantful.ca

NEW! THE GRANT WRITER’S GUIDE TO THE GALAXY NEW!

On this journey we will explore useful tools for navigating the theory and practice of small business grants.

Regardless of experience level, this workshop is for you if you’d like to save time by quickly finding and assessing funding opportunities, increase your grant application output by integrating new skills with existing habits, and enjoy a calmer, more confident approach to the grant application cycle.

$20

ONLINE ONLY

Tuesday, June 13

6:30pm – 8:30pm

Cleoniki Kesidis Copywriter

Think of your homepage as your home’s curb appeal. Your homepage design is critical and its content even more important. It’s the way you greet new and returning visitors.

In this workshop, you’ll learn how to identify your business’s main value to your customers, turn that value into a clear brand message that attracts your audience, and present that brand message in a home page that draws customers in and makes them eager to click.

Writing is not easy for most, but with the right framework, you can show your true value. Come prepared to talk, share, and learn!

$20 ONLINE ONLY

Tuesday, June 20 6:30pm – 8:30pm

Jessie May Wolfe

HeartRise Method & Movement

Communication is an important part of business and the way one communicates must be authentic, compelling, and connected.

Ignite your heart’s capacity to communicate with courage through Jessie May’s unique HeartRise Workshop. Learn how to express your ideas with conviction and presence. Develop the courage to express yourself with passion and purpose in your work and your life.

Experience an intro to her signature HeartRise Meditation Method.

FREE

For dates, upcoming topics and to register, please visit yesmontreal.ca or call 514-878-9788.

Pressed for time? These free seminars hosted by seasoned professionals and guest speakers are offered online over the lunch hour.

MENTORSHIP FOR ENTREPRENEURS

FREE

Looking for a mentor in marketing, the startup and tech scenes, in HR management, or other fields? We offer an online platform that makes it even simpler for you to connect with professionals from different industries. New mentors are added regularly, so be sure to visit the YES website at yesmontreal.ca/find-a-mentor and fill out a detailed request form on what kind of mentor you’d like to meet with to begin the matching process.

See page 30 for additional details.

YES / FUTURPRENEUR CANADA STARTUP PROGRAM

For further information on this initiative, please call us at 514-878-9788 or attend our Jump-Start Your Business and Financing Tips workshop.

YES is a proud partner of Futurpreneur Canada, which provides startup financing, mentoring and educational resources that empower young Canadians 18-39 to start and grow businesses. With the support of our business coaches, you can apply for up to $20,000 startup financing from Futurpreneur Canada and even go on to gain an additional $40,000 from BDC (The Business Development Bank of Canada).

There has never been a more exciting time to be a woman in business!

Join us as we learn from the achievements, pivots, and failures of amazing women entrepreneurs in Quebec’s startup Ecosystem. In our ELLEvate Women Entrepreneurship Series, you’ll hear from established women entrepreneurs and professionals as they share their strategies on finding opportunities, overcoming challenges, and making their mark. Come LEARN, CONNECT, and NETWORK.

All evening workshops include a 30-minute networking session from 8:00pm – 8:30pm

ELLEVATING WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS

FREE*

ONLINE ONLY

Fridays January 13, February 10, March 10, April 14, May 5, June 2 & 30

1:00pm – 3:00pm

Please Note: Those wishing to obtain business coaching services are encouraged to attend this free workshop first.

Are you a woman entrepreneur looking for support to start or expand your business? Do you want to be part of a supportive community and be inspired and elevated throughout your entrepreneurial journey?

If you answered yes to these questions, you’re at the right place! Let’s connect, and you’ll discover the resources and funding options available to you as a woman in business.

We’ll dive deep into how you can effectively boost your leadership skills and improve your time management skills, explore ways to balance work and family life, and discuss how to seek out financing for your small business, among other topics. Don’t miss this informative and interactive workshop that’ll serve as your entry ticket into the entrepreneurial community. Learn alongside other women and grow your business today.

*For $30, you’ll have access to specialized services including coaching, Business Bootcamp, legal information, accounting, and conflict resolution clinics for a full year.

LEADERSHIP TRAITS FOR MANAGING CONFLICTS

$20

HYBRID FORMAT

Tuesday, January 31

6:30pm – 8:30pm

Meltem Kilicaslan

Conflict Resolution Coach, YES Project Manager ELLEvate Women Entrepreneurs

How you manage conflict is your 21st century power that opens the door for honest conversations, creative problem solving, and win/win outcomes.

In this workshop, we’ll demystify conflict and share the fundamental skills for conflict resolution. We’ll cover effective conflict resolution strategies and show you how to create an environment where healthy conflict can exist. You’ll leave this workshop feeling empowered to handle conflict more productively and equipped to lead more effectively.

$20

ONLINE ONLY

Tuesday, February 21

6:30pm – 8:30pm

Nogol Madani (M.Sc.)

Founder & Chief Everything Officer, Glee Factor

Your company culture is important not only for your employees’ general happiness and engagement, but for your business’s stability as well. Some say it’s one of the most crucial factors in today’s workplace. So, why do many entrepreneurs forget to prioritize this from the beginning?

The foundation of your company sets the tone for retention, trust, productivity, well-being, and so much more. Discover ways to build a better work culture today!

BRAND AMBASSADOR

$20

ONLINE ONLY

Tuesday, March 7

6:30pm – 8:30pm

Grace Chaoui

Director of Integrated Media, Weber Shandwick

Deane Code

Vice President, Integrated Media, Weber Shandwick

Building a public profile for yourself and for your business is hard work. From crafting your “pitch” and defining your target audiences, to understanding where they live and how to reach them.

This workshop will provide an overview of the public channels through which to communicate about your brand, how to build your messaging, and especially, how to break through the noise to earn attention in the media.

It will also provide helpful media interview tips and tricks, Dos & Don’ts, and techniques that will allow you to take control of any agenda and be the best ambassador for your brand.

NEW! ELLEVATING WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS: THE IMPORTANCE OF PEOPLE IN THE SUCCESS OF YOUR BUSINESS

$20 per workshop

Workshop 1

HYBRID FORMAT

Tuesday, May 2

6:30pm – 8:30pm

Afreina R Noor Communications Strategist & Digital Marketer

Workshop 2 ONLINE ONLY

Tuesday, May 9

6:30pm – 8:30pm

Brittany Witham Founder, Geopolitica Technologies

Workshop 3

HYBRID FORMAT

Tuesday, May 16

6:30pm – 8:30pm

Nogol Madani

Founder & Chief Everything Officer, Glee Factor

People like to say business isn’t personal, but it is. Every interaction in business has the potential to build connections that can positively impact your career, workplace, and job satisfaction. We strongly suggest taking all three workshops in order to get the best learning experience.

WORKSHOP

1:

NEW! HOW TO NETWORK AS AN ENTREPRENEUR IF YOU ARE NEW TO QUEBEC

Building your network is one of the biggest challenges when starting a new venture.

This workshop is geared towards newcomers or individuals who may or may not have run a business before but are looking to do so now. We will explore how to find the right networking group for you, leverage virtual connections and convert them into working relationships, and build your echo chamber. One should never underestimate networking as it opens new business opportunities, enhances a creative mindset, improves self-confidence, and has the potential to grow your business and your own status.

WORKSHOP 2: NEW! BUILDING A VIRTUAL ADVISORY

BOARD FROM SCRATCH

One of the simplest ways to channel expert insight into your new business is to build a virtual advisory board. By gathering experts and mentors in a virtual format, you can strategically leverage their insight to resolve pain points your business is experiencing or make strategic pivots - in a way that saves your time, and theirs!

In this workshop, Brittany Witham will walk you through how to set up and maintain a virtual advisory board, customizing your board to suit your business’s needs, and will share examples of successful board results with templates you can use for yourself. Learning more about advisory boards can help you develop and improve current business operations, strengthen your network, and stay focused.

WORKSHOP 3: NEW! HOW TO CHEER PEOPLE AROUND YOU TO ELEVATE YOUR BUSINESS?

If you want to stand out from your competitors and consistently exceed your customers’ expectations, you need a great team! When you think this way, you establish your company’s definition of great service or product. This workshop will show you how to build your collective at the start of your entrepreneurial journey and how to grow your team as your business grows. It’s ongoing work that must adapt over time as you learn and as the market, your customers, and your team changes, but the most important thing is to start now.

Turn your artistic talent into a profitable career!

Our one-on-one coaching sessions and workshop series for artists are designed to teach you the business skills you need to succeed in the creative world. Learn how to market your work, network with industry peers, and get self-employment essentials like tax tips and financial advice. These services are open to artists of all ages and disciplines.

JUMP START YOUR ART AND FINANCING OPTIONS

FREE*

HYBRID FORMAT

Mondays

1:30pm – 3:30pm

Please Note: Those wishing to obtain artist coaching services are encouraged to attend this free workshop first.

Are you an artist seeking to make a living from your creativity and talent, but don’t know how?

This workshop is the starting point for artists who are doing what they love but not quite making a living yet. During the workshop, we’ll outline the services and resources available to you from YES and other arts organizations in the community, and touch upon key things to consider in building a career or business in the arts.

Topics include getting to know your industry, marketing/promotion, developing relationships with stakeholders, understanding the funding landscape, and essential grant-writing tips.

There’ll be ample time for a one-on-one consultation with a dedicated artist coach who’ll help you identify what services would best suit your needs as an artist and entrepreneur.

15-MINUTE ONE-ON-ONE ARTIST COACHING CONSULT

FREE*

ONLINE OR IN-PERSON

To book an artist coaching consult, please call 514-878-9788 ext. 316 or email jpatel@yesmontreal.ca

Please Note: By appointment only.

Whatever challenges you’re facing in your artistic journey, you don’t have to face them alone!

This free15-minute session with the YES Artist Coach offers new clients an opportunity to discover the YES services that’ll best meet your needs and existing clients an opportunity to address one or two small issues related to your creative practice or business. If you wish to continue receiving artist coaching services, you’ll be required to open a client file.

ARTIST COACHING SESSION

FREE*

ONLINE OR IN-PERSON

To book an appointment please call 514-878-9788 ext. 316 or email jpatel@yesmontreal.ca

Please Note: By appointment only.

These individual sessions with a dedicated artist coach can be one-time, occasional, or ongoing in nature and are intended to help artists define and attain goals based on short and long-term action plans. We offer guidance and support in a variety of areas including, but not limited to:

+ Administration

+ Grant writing

+ Career development

yesmontreal.ca | 514-878-9788

+ Funding and fundraising + Industry resources and organizations

+ Marketing and promotional tools/strategies

GRANT WRITING ESSENTIALS: TWO-PART SERIES

$35 for two-part series

HYBRID FORMAT

Part 1

Wednesday, February 1

6:30pm – 8:30pm

Caroline Gauthier

MBA, HEC & YES Artist Business Coach

Part 2

Wednesday, February 8

6:30pm – 8:30pm

Caroline Gauthier

MBA, HEC & YES Artist Business Coach

Matthew Tiffin Canada Council for the Arts

You know art. We can teach you business.

This two-part mini-series is designed to help artists gain the necessary business know-how to start their ventures on the right foot. Develop your artistic practice or business strategically in order to see real growth now!

PART 1: THE PITCH

Your art has potential - now you must represent it on paper in a way that will captivate the reader. In the first part of this series, you’ll learn how to craft a compelling, context-rich pitch that jumps off the page to effectively illustrate your art project’s true value. Starting with an essential grant writing checklist, you’ll understand how to represent your work with clarity and persuasion.

PART 2: BUDGETS AND TIMELINES

All winning grant applications include cohesive, well-thought-out budgets and timelines that accurately illustrate the project from a time and financial perspective. In this session, we’ll focus on developing a set of best practices for all future grant applications that get results.

TAX TIPS FOR ARTISTS

$20

HYBRID FORMAT

Wednesday, March 15

6:30pm – 8:30pm

Gavin Correa CPA, CA, CFP, LCA CPA LLP

As a self-employed artist, are you lost during tax season?

In this informative workshop, we’ll demystify the process for you. We’ll define taxable income, identify allowable expenses and deductions for freelance creative professionals, and uncover specific tax deductions and credits that are available to self-employed artists. You’ll also learn the best administrative practices to help you with record keeping and bookkeeping throughout the year to make sure you take back control of your art business.

CONTRACTS 101 FOR ARTISTS

$20

HYBRID FORMAT

Wednesday, May 3

6:30pm – 8:30pm

Alexandra Lorange

Deputy Executive and Artistic Director, Canadian Music Competition

What does a typical contract look like? Contracts are complex and can be difficult to understand and especially to interpret.

The arts and creative industries rely on contracts. By understanding how contracts work as well as simple negotiation techniques, you can better protect yourself and strengthen your working relationships.

This workshop will help you to determine the key elements of a standard contract, to understand its drafting, and to become more familiar with the basics of its interpretation so you can better protect yourself, your art, and your labour.

MENTORSHIP FOR ARTISTS

Looking for a mentor in photography, writing, modern music, or other artistic disciplines? We offer an online platform that makes it even simpler for you to connect with professionals from different industries.

New mentors are added regularly, so be sure to visit the YES website at yesmontreal.ca/find-a-mentor and fill out a detailed request form on what kind of mentor you’d like to meet with to begin the matching process.

See page 30 for additional details.

BUSINESS SKILLS FOR CREATIVE SOULS: THE ESSENTIAL ARTIST’S HANDBOOK

You have the talent and the vision… now make it work for you!

Featuring first-hand advice, best practices, strategies and insider tips from more than 50 working Quebec artists and industry professionals, Business Skills for Creative Souls: The Essential Artist’s Handbook is packed with practical, no-nonsense content from cover to cover.

Touching on art/business essentials like marketing, grant-writing, fundraising, social media, legal, accounting and others, The Essential Artist’s Handbook also boasts an extensive resource listing of arts service, support and funding agencies.

$24.95

Pick up a copy at the centre or call 514-878-9788 to have your copy shipped to you today.

Whether you’re a fashion designer, film-maker, musician, new media or visual artist, performer, photographer or writer, this book can help YOU grow.

MENTORSHIP SERVICES

FREE

Having access to a mentor is like having access to a library of real people to give you insight and advice on your path to success.

As part of our mentorship program, YES also offers our clients a matching service to connect you with experienced professionals who’ve volunteered to become mentors. Once you’ve connected with an Employment Counsellor or Business Coach, our Mentorship Coordinator will facilitate the matching process, connecting potential mentors and mentees to arrange an initial online meeting.

New mentors are added regularly, so be sure to visit the YES website at yesmontreal.ca/find-a-mentor and fill out a detailed request form on what kind of mentor you’d like to meet with to begin the matching process.

BECOME A MENTOR

Are you an experienced professional with a sense of commitment and desire to give back to the community? Are you looking for volunteer experience? Do you want to share your knowledge and expertise?

Contact the YES Mentorship Coordinator at 514-878-9788 ext. 305 for further information on how you can give back to the community by becoming a mentor. You can also complete an online application form on our website at yesmontreal.ca/get-involved/mentors.

YES AT A GLANCE

YES needs your support!

YES is a community-based English-language service provider that has been helping Quebecers province-wide find employment and start and grow businesses for more than 27 years. YES was created in 1995 as a registered charity to stem the flow of young people out of Quebec. Since then, we’ve expanded our mission to help more than 60,000 Quebecers through our various programs and services for Job Seekers up to age 40 and Entrepreneurs and Artists of any age.

If, like us, you’re passionate about having access to English-language employment and entrepreneurship services in Quebec and you’re looking to make a positive difference, please donate online at yesmontreal.ca. Tax receipts will be issued for gifts of $10 or more.

OVER 3,000 REASONS TO DONATE TO YES

Charitable Registration Number:

88872 9050 RR 0001

Please Note: Tax receipts will be issued for gifts of $10 or more.

For more information on our fundraising efforts, visit yesmontreal.ca.

In order for us to provide our services for free or at affordable prices, we need your support. While the government subsidizes a portion of our programs, there are still many services that go unfunded. Each one of the more than 3,000 individuals who walk through our doors every year is important to us, and the continued development of our services is key to their success.

This is where you can make a difference:

+ Help a young job seeker get a start in their career

+ Help an entrepreneur launch their business

Donate today!

+ Help a talented artist create revenue from their passion

BOARD OF DIRECTORS ADVISORY COUNCIL

Past President, YES

Doris Juergens

NATIONAL Public Relations President, YES

Samantha Bateman Integria Consulting Vice-President, YES Elisabeth Laett Holt Accelerator Treasurer, YES

Jenny Bouras CRHA MMPA CPA CA Secretary, YES

Larry Markowitz

NATIONAL Public Relations Josef Azam DesignShopp.com

Giovanna Buscemi

Pino Di Ioia

BeaverTails Pastry, Nathon Kong Nathon Kong Tailor Inc

Nogol Madani Glee Factor

Hilary Radley Hilary Radley Designs Inc.

Bonnie Robinson Anjali Devi Advisory Inc. Geoff Wagner

YES BOARD, ADVISORS AND STAFF

Lionel Blanshay Rob Braide

Scott Conrod Charles B. Crawford Peter R. Johnson Guy Laframboise

YES STAFF

Timothy Leyne Peter McAuslan Andy Nulman Herschel Segal Robert Walsh

Aki Tchitacov, Executive Director

Fernanda Amaro Teneille Arnott Catherine Brisindi David Cerenzia Mario Clarke Miguel Cubillos Vanessa Cyriacopoulos Amanda Duriano Gavidia Ellen Englert Caroline Gauthier Sherry Hollinger Coby Ingham Annalise Iten Meltem Kilicaslan

Danny Légaré Cristina Lupu Derek MacNeil Sara Meyer Erjona Mulellari Ran Ou Jayna Patel

Jiselle Pinheiro-Dallaire Farshad Rouhani Isfehani Liliane Rushemeza Kathy Slotsve Margaret Ta Robert Therriault Ricardo Vazquez Guy