ELEVATE Cape Breton - Winter 2020

SUSTAINABLE SWAG P6 Ethical promotional products

APRIL 2020

PAPER PROFITS P20 Growing the local economy responsibly

PARTNERS IN EXPORT P24 Sharing local seafood with the world

A PUBLICATION FROM THE CAPE BRETON PARTNERSHIP

EXPORTING TO THE WORLD Copol International works to turn marine waste into biodegradable plastics

PG 14

Helping businesses Helping businesses Helping businesses grow through grow through grow through export export export

The Cape Breton Partnership’s Export Growth Service smallExport and The Cape Bretonconnects Partnership’s The Cape Breton Partnership’s Export Growth Service connects small and medium-sized Cape Breton companies Growth Service connects small and medium-sized Cape Breton companies with the knowledge and resources medium-sized Cape Breton companies with the knowledge resources they need to sell theirand products and with the knowledge and resources they need to sellthe their products and services around world. they need to sell their products and services around the world. services around the world.

EXPORT GROWTH SERVICE IS EXPORT GROWTH SERVICE IS FOCUSED THREE THINGS: EXPORTON GROWTH SERVICE IS

FOCUSED ON THREE THINGS: FOCUSED ON THREE THINGS: Meeting with companies to assess needs and Meetinga with companies to export assess needs and develop to assist in Meetingguide with companies assess planning needs and develop a guide to assist intoexport planning develop a guide to assist in export planning Providing navigation and guidance for Providing navigation guidance Providing navigationand and guidance for existing export-related services andfor programs existing export-related services and existing export-related services andprograms programs

Hosting workshops, training sessions Hosting workshops, training Hosting workshops, trainingsessions sessions and an annual Export Conference and an annual Export Conference

The Export Growth Service The Export ExportGrowth GrowthService Service The is recruiting new companies is recruiting recruitingnew newcompanies companies is for2020 2020– –if if you’re already for you’re already for 2020 – if you’re already exportingoror interested in exporting interested in exporting or interested in exploringhow how to get exploring toget get exploring how to started, we can help. started, we can help. started, we can help.

and an annual Export Conference

Formore moreinformation, information, contact: contact: For For more information, contact: Lan Zheng Lan Zheng Lan Zheng ExportAdministrator Administrator Export Export Administrator

EMAIL export@capebretonpartnership.com EMAIL : :export@capebretonpartnership.com export@capebretonpartnership.com TEL : 902 217 3065 TEL : 902 217 3065

EMAIL :

TEL :

902 217 3065

The Export Growth Service is offered through support from The Growth Service is offered through support from theExport Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency the Canada Opportunities Agency TheAtlantic Export Growth Service is offered through support from

the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

APRIL 2020

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APRIL 2020 / VOLUME 5 ISSUE 1

Copol VP Operations & General Manager Denis Lanoë attributes much of their success to their ability and willingness to listen and adapt to industry demands as the use of plastic comes under closer scrutiny world-wide by altering some of the main components of their products.

PHOTO STEVE WADDEN

ON THE COVER

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EXPORTING TO THE WORLD COPOL INTERNATIONAL WORKS TO TURN MARINE WASTE INTO BIODEGRADABLE PLASTICS

18 Sustainably supporting aquaculture International partnership means new clients, jobs in Cape Breton

20 Profits from paper

Local paper company grows economy while promoting sustainability

24 Partners in Export

Sharing Bras d’Or Lakes seafood with the world

26 Exporting Cape Breton

A Q&A with Lan Zheng : Export Administrator, Export Growth Service

PLUS 4

PRESIDENT & CEO’S MESSAGE

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REGIONAL BUZZ FEATURE: ETHICAL SWAG

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REGIONAL BUZZ

30 PARTNERSHIP UPDATE

On cover: Copol International Ltd. are a major exporter on the Island supplying cast polypropylene to customers across both Canada and the U.S., but it’s their sustainable production initiatives that are putting this local company in the spotlight.

Cape Breton Partnership Board of Directors Executive Sandra Killam, Seaside Wireless Communications Inc. – Chair Steve Parsons, Eskasoni Corporate – Vice-Chair Alex Paul, Membertou Economic Benefits Office – Past Chair Rob Wadden, Grant Thornton – Treasurer Jennifer MacLeod, MacLeod Lorway Insurance – Secretary Brian Purchase, Schwartz Furniture – Director Directors Damien Barry, Louisbourg Seafoods Tracey Boutilier, Vibe Creative Group Osborne Burke, Victoria Co-operative Fisheries Ltd. Howie Doiron, Lindsay Construction Amanda Mombourquette, Strait Area Chamber of Commerce Dan MacDonald, CBCL Ltd. Steve Parsons, Eskasoni Corporate Beth Mason, Verschuren Centre, CBU Monica McCarthy, East Coast Credit Union Allan Eddy, Port Hawkesbury Paper Jillian Janega, Cabot Links James Wooder, JBW Consulting Inc. Fred Tilley, Marconi Campus, NSCC Jennifer Martin, Membertou Corporate Brian Purchase, Schwartz Furniture Paul Breski, Nova Scotia Power

Cape Breton Partnership Contact SYDNEY OFFICE 285 Alexandra Street Sydney, Nova Scotia B1S 2E8 Telephone: 902-562-0122 or 902-562-7182

Elevate is published by The SaltWire Network on behalf of the Cape Breton Partnership Publisher: Sarah Dennis President and CEO: Mark Lever Director, Product Management: Lindsey Bunin Advertising Sales: Scott MacQuarrie Director, Sales & Marketing – Cape Breton Post 902-371-0417 scott.macquarrie@cbpost.com

PORT HAWKESBURY OFFICE 609 Church Street Suite 101 Port Hawkesbury, Nova Scotia B9A 2X4 Telephone: 902-625-0958 For more information about the Cape Breton Partnership visit www.capebretonpartnership.com.

For any questions about Elevate Magazine, contact the Cape Breton Partnership at 902-562-0122 or by email at elevate@capebretonpartnership.com.

Elevate Magazine Lead: Kathleen MacLeod Editor: Nicole Gnazdowsky Layout & Design: Peter Ross Cover Photo: Steve Wadden Contributing Writers: Lynn Morrison, Kathleen MacLeod

Disclaimer Elevate magazine makes no warranties of any kind, written or implied, regarding the contents of this magazine and expressly disclaims any warranty regarding the accuracy or reliability of information contained herein. The views contained in this magazine are those of the writers and advertisers; they do not necessarily reflect the views of Elevate magazine and its publisher The SaltWire Network.

Publications Mail Agreement No. 40065080 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to the Cape Breton Partnership.

Copyright 2020 by SaltWire Network Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any article, photograph or artwork without expressed written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.

2717 Joseph Howe Drive Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3J 2T2 Tel: 902-426-2811 SaltWire.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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ELEVATE

PRESIDENT & CEO’S MESSAGE

The world of exports Showcasing Cape Breton in international markets

THE CAPE BRETON PARTNERSHIP IS PLEASED TO PRESENT THIS ISSUE OF ELEVATE MAGAZINE CELEBRATING CAPE BRETON-UNAMA’KI COMPANIES THAT ARE SELLING THEIR PRODUCTS AND SERVICES TO THE WORLD, AND HAVING A TREMENDOUS ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL IMPACT HERE AT HOME.”

CARLA ARSENAULT

President & CEO, Cape Breton Partnership

C

ape Breton-Unama’ki is a world-class island with world-class companies that have a lot to offer today’s consumers. The diversity of our products and services and the opportunity for growth is immense.

This should come as no surprise as Nova Scotia exports reached an all-time high of $6.05 billion in 2019 according to the Nova Scotia Department of Finance.

While there is no breakdown of data for Cape Breton Island, we know that many sectors, including seafood and aquaculture, are continuing to grow. More recently, international education has been considered the second-largest export sector, based in large part to the growth in international

students at Cape Breton University (CBU).

With just over 3,500 international students, representing approximately 60 per cent of the student population, CBU is seeing unprecedented growth.

The Cape Breton Partnership is pleased to present this issue of Elevate magazine celebrating Cape Breton-Unama’ki companies that are selling their products and services to the world, and having a tremendous economic and social impact here at home.

Cape Breton-Unama’ki is a small island.

With just over 132,000 people, we know that exporting our products and services is the key to the growth of our businesses.

Companies like Copol International Ltd., with 54 employees servicing the niche market of cast polypropylene (CPP) film, is exporting products to clients across the globe. Port Hawkesbury Paper creates the highest quality supercalendered (glossy finish) paper available, which is delivered to 250 print companies on five continents.

The majority of their exports focus on North and Central America, as well as Europe, with overall export accounting for approximately 80 per cent of their product.

Cape Breton-owned and operated Ethical

Swag is the only merchandise company in Canada whose entire line of promotional products is ethically sourced, servicing clients across North America.

There are also Cape Breton companies expanding their export efforts through successful partnerships. We’koqma’q First Nation’s steelhead trout harvesting operation has been growing rapidly. In an effort to expand their product to international markets in a way that preserves the environment for future generations, they’ve partnered with Cooke Aquaculture to support their sales and marketing efforts.

In addition, East Coast Metal Fabrication has seen their workload increase by 50 per cent this past year due to export. Their success is as a result of a partnership with Scotlandbased, Gael Force Group.

These are just some of the Cape BretonUnama’ki companies who are doing great work and sharing their unique products and services to the world. We all want to see our economy grow and finding ways to share many of our local gems with the world will help us to do just that. I encourage you to read on to learn more about their successes in the world of export. ■

Tell us your problems!

We want to connect you to a Nova Scotia start-up with a technology solution to one of your company’s challenges.

Learn more at innovacorp.ca/intersect

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PRESIDENT & CEO’S MESSAGE

APRIL 2020

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COMING SOON Cape Breton Regional Police East Division

Do you have a job you’d like to discuss? Contact: MATT FLYNN Director, Business Development 902-468-5000 EXT 8244 matt.flynn@lindsayconstruction.ca

HOWIE DOIRON

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Regional Director 902-270-2121 EXT 8301 howie.doiron@lindsayconstruction.ca

WINTER 2020 ELEVATE

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ELEVATE

REGIONAL BUZZ FEATURE

PHOTO STEVE WADDEN

Sustainable swag

Tara Milburn (left), Pallavi Gosain (center) and Deb MacPherson of Ethical Swag Promotional Products.

STORY LYNN MORRISON

made with recycled, organic and biodegradable components, she launched her webpage, ethicalswag.com in March of 2018.

PHOTOS STEVE RANKIN “My mission with Ethical Swag was to offer access to promotional products that were not at the expense of people or the planet,” says Milburn. “Over the past two years we have been able to provide customers an opportunity to serve as advocates for the environment by choosing sustainable alternatives to tell their brand’s story.”

Ethical Swag sells a wide range of products including clothing, tote bags, drinkware, pens and other unique items. In addition, Ethical Swag encourages customer feedback and suggestions to ensure they are meeting the changing needs of clients from across North America.

“Taking your business abroad can be risky, but it’s also a fabulous opportunity to take a different approach. You have to be clear on the reason you are in business. Customers are looking for a change. If it isn't you, they will choose your competitor.” ■

How one Cape Breton company connects the continent to ethical promotional products

C

ape Breton-Unama’ki is a small island and exporting our products and services is key to the growth of our businesses and our economy. It should come as no surprise that Cape Breton is home to Ethical Swag, a promotional merchandise company with clients throughout North America. What you may not know is that Ethical Swag is the only sustainably focused promotional products company in Canada whose entire line of products are ethically sourced and available online through an e-commerce website.

It was back in 2010 when Ethical Swag founder, Tara Milburn, identified the need for more sustainable promotional products.

It wasn't until the fall of 2017 that she made it her full-time focus. She developed relationships with suppliers that passed strict audits on social compliance and environmental stewardship and worked hard to understand what customers wanted. With a diverse and unique line of sustainable products, many

Over the past two years we have been able to provide customers an opportunity to serve as advocates for the environment by choosing sustainable alternatives to tell their brand’s story.”

TARA MILBURN, FOUNDER, ETHICAL SWAG BUSINESS NEWS

APRIL 2020

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WINTER 2020 ELEVATE

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ELEVATE

REGIONAL BUZZ Designer holds first Cape Breton fashion show

Born into Canada’s Celtic culture, Veronica MacIsaac grew up immersed in the art of sewing and garment creation. Learning from her mother and father, Mac and Rosemary MacIsaac, owners of MacIsaac Kiltmakers in St. Peter’s, she developed a passion for tartan. Now based in Halifax, she designs and creates modern pieces that include classic Celtic elements such as family tartans.

Her incredible designs have been showcased on both Canadian and international runways, including Atlantic Fashion Week, Ottawa Fashion Week, From Scotland with Love in New York City and most recently, in St. Peter’s which was her first Cape Breton show. The audience at the Bras d’Or Lakes Inn had the pleasure of taking in a new collection from MacIsaac, as well as live entertainment.

PHOTO STEVE RANKIN

The Bite House

Nestled away in rural Big Baddeck is a captivating dining experience that will make your taste buds dance. Owned and operated by Chef Bryan Picard, The Bite House provides guests with an elegant, yet down-to-earth night out in his charming century-old farmhouse. Chef Picard transforms his property from May to December to offer locally sourced dishes. He serves an exquisite nine-course set menu of smaller bites and larger dishes with an elegant aesthetic, all built upon the produce and products of farmers across Cape Breton. He also uses herbs, vegetables and flowers picked directly from his own garden, and serves an eclectic selection of local wine, beer, cider and spirits.

There is no question as to why the 12-seat restaurant gained recent international attention from both The Guardian and The New York Times. The Bite House’s cozy, rustic atmosphere is a necessary visit for all food lovers.

Fire and Stone Coffee Roasters donate to L’Arche Cape Breton

Fire and Stone Coffee Roasters is located in St. Peter’s. Calling themselves “coffee with a conscience,” each month they select a different Cape Breton charity and donate the proceeds of their coffee sold.

During the month of August 2019, Fire and Stone donated $1 from every bag of coffee the business sold to L’Arche Cape Breton.

L’Arche is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating welcoming communities of friendship

and belonging for those with intellectual disabilities through social programming, housing and work opportunities.

Ursula Johnson wins Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia Masterworks Arts Award

A young Cape Breton artist from Eskasoni is making a significant impact in the arts. Ursula Johnson has recently been awarded the $25,000 Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia Masterworks Arts Award for her creation entitled

Moose Fence. A graduate from the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design, Johnson has participated in over 30 group shows and five solo exhibits showcasing her extensive talents. In addition to her most recent award, Johnson was also selected as a finalist for the Salt Spring National Art Prize, and awarded the Sobey Art Award, becoming the first Atlantic Canadian under 40 to win the national prize. Through her artwork, Johnson challenges those who view her sculptures to openly explore the ideas of identity, ancestry and cultural practice.

BUSINESS NEWS

Jenan’s Syrian Kitchen celebrates opening

Two years after moving to Cape Breton from Syria, the Alhsso family has opened a new authentic Syrian restaurant in downtown Sydney. Jenan’s Syrian Kitchen opened its doors in November 2019 and offers delicious meals of both Syrian and Turkish cuisine.

The Alhsso family was the eighth refugee family to establish roots in Cape Breton within the last three years and noticed a lack of their traditional food that they once shared with family and friends.

To share the taste of their culture with the entire community, they partnered with Cape Breton University graduate Ahmed Barakat and made their vision a reality. Their menu features Syrian favorites such as fatayers, along with Turkish cuisine including shawarma, manakish and kibbeh. Their new space at 270 George St. has undergone a variety of updates to prepare for the opening. Together, Jenan’s Syrian Kitchen delivers another great option in Sydney to try delicious food from a different region of the world.

APRIL 2020

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L’abri café welcomes upcoming second season

Aucoin Bakery named Sweetest Bakery in Atlantic Canada by Dawn Foods

Whether you’re a Cape Breton local or visitor, you don’t need to travel far to find the Sweetest Bakery in Atlantic Canada. Founded in 1959, Aucoin Bakery can be found in Petit Étang alongside the internationally recognized Cabot Trail. In October 2019, Dawn Foods officially ranked the family-owned bakery as the Sweetest Bakery in Atlantic Canada as part of their annual contest. For more than half of a century, Aucoin Bakery has offered freshly baked bread, rolls, pastries, sandwiches, Acadian-style meat pies and hot beverages. The bakery employs 15 people during the peak season to serve customer demand and deliver products to restaurants, co-ops and smaller stores across the Island. Head bakers and owners, Justin and his mother Pauline, start their baking at 4:30 a.m. daily to prepare for eager customers that frequently line up out the door.

Sydney woman pours love into new business

A new business is brewing in downtown Sydney. The Brew and Bubble, located at 76 Townsend St., serves loose leaf tea, bubble tea, pour-over coffee, bagged tea blends and yummy sweets.

The inspiration behind the shop’s opening? World traveller and Owner Megan MacKenzie first fell in love with tea after spending six years living in South Korea as a teacher upon completion of her undergraduate degree. While spending time overseas, MacKenzie was amazed by the abundance of options — tea was infused into sweet treats, pancakes, crackers and even soda. After her experiences in Asia, MacKenzie initially

planned to start a career related to her degree in environmental science, but she felt an entrepreneurial tug and now she’s bringing one of the favourite elements of her travels home to Cape Breton.

The Brew and Bubble offers a cozy atmosphere for those looking to relax, sip, sample, broaden their tea-based knowledge and try something new.

Wreck Cove Wilderness Cabins

Located on the Cabot Trail in the Cape Breton Highlands, Wreck Cove Wilderness Cabins offers a home away from home to tourists and locals exploring the Island.

After 22 years in operation, the business is under new owner-

ship within the same family, with Gordon Crimp and Jay Rawding now at the helm of the year-round business. The peaceful 29-acre oceanfront property is home to pet-friendly cabins. Each one includes two spacious bedrooms, a dining and living room area, a fully equipped kitchen and a fourpiece bath. Depending on the time of year, days can be spent relaxing by the shore, exploring the stunning Cabot Trail, playing a round of golf at Highland Links in Ingonish Beach or hiking, skiing or snowshoeing the multitude of scenic trails — some which begin right at your cabin door! Whether you’re a visitor or a resident, you’re bound to enjoy a Wreck Cove Wilderness Cabins adventure.

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WINTER 2020 ELEVATE

Official openings held for new businesses in St. Peter’s

St. Peter’s recently added three new food establishments to their community. New Orleans Pizza, Robin’s Donuts and Subway share a new home on Grenville Street.

Together they held their grand opening in late October. The trio inhabits a modern food courtstyle area and has proven to be extremely popular among locals and travellers who stop in. Currently, the restaurants employ 20 people collectively but will be looking to hire more staff as the business continues to grow. New Orleans Pizza is owned by franchisee Robbie Burroughs, while both Robin’s Donuts and Subway are owned by Darren Cummings, adding to his primary Subway location in Port Hawkesbury. The opening of these franchises brings not only more options for dining in the community, but also an opportunity for further economic growth.

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PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

If you’re visiting the Chéticamp area, L’abri café is a spot you do not want to miss. The new restaurant, located along the Cabot Trail, is receiving rave reviews.

L’abri, owned by Basil Doucet and Jaron Felix, offers a delicious selection of in-house pastries and breads, lunch and dinner options, freshly brewed espresso and a wide selection of wine and ciders.

The enticing menu combined with oceanview dining makes for a great experience, with many patrons returning multiple times only to be blown away by the quality L’abri offers.

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PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Cultures on display at Hello Cape Breton festival

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On Nov. 9, downtown Sydney was vibrant with culture as the Joan Harriss Cruise Pavilion hosted the Hello Cape Breton festival, presented by the Cape Breton Island Centre for Immigration. The annual festival offers an opportunity for international students and newcomers to celebrate their culture and share their traditions with others. The festival included a full day of cultural performances, food tastings from different international cuisines and educational opportunities in art and history. Attendees enjoyed traditional dance performances, replicas of traditional historic landmarks and henna art.

BUSINESS NEWS

APRIL 2020

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Volunteers help blaze new trail at Colaisde na Gàidhlig | The Gaelic College

In September 2019, 30 volunteers from around the province gathered together to develop a new all-ages walking trail in a section of the Gaelic College property that’s steeped in rich history. The Gaelic College, located in St. Anne’s, was founded in 1938 and offers yearround programming in the culture, music and traditions of immigrants from the Highlands of Scotland.

Outdoor advocate Tim Scrutton noticed that the existing trails on the Gaelic College property had become overgrown. To solve this problem, Scrutton, the former Nova Scotia Provincial Co-ordinator for outdoor recreation, proposed that the college host a weekend of trail building, where trail enthusiasts from the province could gather together and learn about the craft of trail restoration. During the weekend, the Gaelic College offered housing and meals to participants with funding from the Nova Scotia Department of Communities, Culture and Heritage. Now a reality, a 600-meter-long walking trail is open to all who wish to enjoy what the property has to offer.

Black Spoon Bistro expansion

The Black Spoon Bistro, owned and operated by Mike and Monica Black, first opened in March 2012 in North Sydney. With an extensive menu of unique dishes, a welcoming atmosphere and excellent service, the Black Spoon Bistro rapidly gained popularity and became one of the community’s most popular places to dine. The eatery serves, among other foods, a selection of mouth-watering seafood, paninis, homemade soups and pastas all made with the perfect combination of spices and sauces. Notably, the bistro also serves delicious desserts. Now in their eighth year of operation, the bistro expanded to accommodate their growing demand. The restaurant went from 30 to 42 seats, with the option of adding in an additional 10 seats when needed. With more space comes the need for more staff. The Black Spoon Bistro’s team started with a team of six people and they now employ 27 between their main location on Commercial St. and the Black Spoon Market on Convent St. The expansion has garnered rave reviews regarding the extra room, new décor and seating.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Gabarus husband and wife duo launch Cape Bread'n

Gabarus-based couple Jennifer and David Kyte moved to Cape Breton Island from Kelowna, B.C., in the summer of 2019. Born in Ontario, David frequently visited Cape Breton throughout his childhood as his father is from Sydney.

For more than two decades he was in the restaurant industry and Jennifer worked as a dental hygienist. They decided to take the leap and start their next chapter of life on the East Coast. After arriving, the couple joined the Cape Breton Food Hub to create Cape Bread’n, a business focusing on specialty breads, loaves, cakes and crisps, including many vegan options. The Kyte’s display and sell their products at the Cape Breton Farmers’ Market in Sydney. They soon hope to open a restaurant attached to their home in Gabarus which will offer breakfast, lunch and dinners on weekends. David, a Red Seal chef by trade, said the dishes they serve will be made with locally sourced seasonal ingredients, including home-grown herbs and produce.

Cape Breton Artist Keith Mullins takes home Music Nova Scotia Awards

Cape Breton’s own Keith Mullins received two awards at the Music Nova Scotia Awards in Truro this past November. Mullins stepped into the East Coast music industry at 15 years old and has travelled around the world song writing, performing, educating and sharing the stage with other talented musicians. This year, he took home both Traditional/Roots Recording of the Year and Educator of the Year from the annual Music Nova Scotia Awards, to add to the previous four he’s gathered over the years. In addition to the Music Nova Scotia Awards, Mullins is also the recipient of two East Coast Music Awards. A musician is indeed a business owner, and plays over 250 shows a year. Keith is currently travelling countrywide to promote his most recent album, Onward and Upward.

Farm-to-table restaurant GRÁ now open

Located in Ross Ferry, Victoria County, is a fresh farm-to-table dining experience. Cherie Swift and her son moved from Ontario two years ago and quickly fell in love with the community. Now, Swift has opened up her new home as a unique dining experience using ingredients from the local area and her own farm.

GRÁ, which translates to “love” or “sweetheart” in Gaelic, serves a six-course menu to reservations of 20 guests each evening, and up to 70 per cent of the produce that is served comes directly from Swift’s 150-acre farm. The nightly array includes menu items such as soups, salads, meat and seafood dishes, wood-fired pizza and dessert — the restaurant even offers freshly made butter. When not using ingredients directly from her own farm, Swift ensures to purchase ingredients from local producers across the Island.

WINTER 2020 ELEVATE

Cape Breton musician kicks off career

A Cape Breton songwriter has released his latest album, but the events leading up to the recording process were not exactly traditional. R.G. Schaller, a country and folk artist based in Sydney, placed a winning bid on a silent auction item at a local fundraiser and won the foundation for recording his newest release, B-Sides and Other Lies. The auction item included a day of recording at Cape Breton University’s recording studio, along with a recording engineer.

The session usually allows artists enough time to record two or three songs with a band, but Schaller had a different idea. He went in solo with his acoustic guitar and was able to record all 13 tracks of his album in one day.

Mike Shepherd of Lakewind Sound Studios mixed it and Schaller released the album at Breton Brewing in November 2019.

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Cabot Trail Food Truck Rally offers weekend of treats on wheels

The Cabot Trail was buzzing with excitement Oct. 26 and 27 as the inaugural Cabot Trail Food Truck Rally combined hiking, astounding views, live entertainment and delicious feasts into one weekend. The rally consisted of local food trucks and vendors placed around the trail about 20 to 30 minutes apart.

Throughout the weekend, visitors got the opportunity to drive the trail and stop at food trucks to try meals made with fresh, local ingredients. Together, Destination Cape Breton, Parks Canada and the Pan Cape Breton Food Hub joined forces to make this weekend an astounding success. Vendors along the trail included Bungalow Beans, Beaver Tails Mobile, Back East Seafood, Big Spruce Brewing, Captain Capers Fish & Chips, Cruisin’ Cuisine Food Truck, Periwinkle Café, Stand and Stuff Your Face, The Dancing Moose, The Joint Mobile Grill, Community Oven and Open Kitchen Space, Doryman Pub & Grill, Cruisin’ Cap Rougien’s Cuisine and Danena’s Bakery & Bistro. Attendees are already eager for next year’s celebrations.

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APRIL 2020

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CBU men’s and women’s soccer teams take home AUS titles

On the weekend of Nov. 3, both Cape Breton University Capers soccer teams were victorious in their battle for the Atlantic University Sport (AUS) championship titles. Coached by Stephen “Ness” Timmons, the women’s team took on the Acadia Axewomen and was successful with a winning score of three to two, clinching their 11th AUS title. This year’s win was their third in a row. The team then travelled to Victoria, B.C., for the U Sports National Championship, placing fifth. The men’s team, coached by Deano Morley, battled St. Francis Xavier University for the title and kept their undefeated record for the season, winning the final with a score of two to zero. The men’s team then travelled to Montreal to play in the U Sports National Championship and took home national bronze. With raw talent, hard work and dedication, the Capers continue to mark Cape Breton University Athletics as a force to be reckoned with.

Glace Bay arena renovations well underway

A Glace Bay rink is receiving muchneeded repairs and renovations.

Formerly named the Bayplex, the arena is undergoing a reconstruction project valued at $10 million and will include an expansion of the ice, installation of new boards and a glass system, a new refrigeration plant, along with refurbishing the geothermal portion of the refrigeration system. The existing walking track will undergo an expansion to include the addition of accessible ramps, new plumbing and parking lot improvements, and upgrades will be done to both the current dressing rooms and banquet hall. Closed since 2017 due to renovations, the arena will re-open under the name Glace Bay Miner’s Forum in July 2020. ■

PHOTO STEVE RANKIN

Cabot golf courses season-end success

The Cabot Links and Cabot Cliffs golf courses, located in Inverness, have declared this past golf season as their most successful to date. During the 2019 season, the courses hosted just over 40,000 rounds of golf with 90 per cent of players visiting from outside of the Maritimes. Gaining national and international recognition, both Cabot Links and Cabot Cliffs were featured on the covers of ScoreGolf, Golf Magazine and Golfweek — all acclaimed publications in the industry. Golf Magazine’s most recent issue named the courses in the top 100 courses in North America. In addition to those successes, the coveted greens employed 60 students from Cape Breton University and the Nova Scotia Community College. Currently accepting bookings for 2020, these world-renowned golf courses are planning new developments, including a wellness centre which will house a plunge pool as well as massage and exercise facilities.

WINTER 2020 ELEVATE

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EXPORTING TO THE WORLD Copol International works to turn marine waste into biodegradable plastics

PHOTOS STEVE WADDEN

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“We take pride in our efficient and fast turnaround times, exceptional customer service and providing a consistent quality product.”

Denis Lanoë, VP Operations and General Manager, Copol International Ltd.

STORY KATHLEEN MACLEOD

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opol International Ltd. serves the niche market of cast polypropylene (CPP) film and has succeeded in global markets since 1992. The North Sydney-based company is the only Canadian manufacturer of CPP film, one of the clearest films that exists.

The highly sought-after film is used in flexible packaging such as clear and printed plastic bags, pouches, food packaging, candy twist wrap, and any application requiring heat resistance for products that need to be sterilized, pasteurized or retorted.

From within its 90,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in the Northside Industrial Park, Copol’s 54 employees produce, market and sell their flagship product. They pride themselves on being a service-oriented custom shop with a business platform based around their customers. Operating with rapid processing time, they usually deliver to clients anywhere in North America within three weeks.

“We take pride in our efficient and fast turnaround times, exceptional customer service and providing a consistent quality product,” says Denis Lanoë, VP Operations and General Manager of Copol International Ltd. With over 25 years of experience successfully managing companies, Lanoë started at Copol in 2012. A professional Engineer with an MBA, Lanoë is the passionate leader behind Copol’s outstanding management team that is taking the company to new levels.

While located in Cape Breton, their niche product exports to other provinces across Canada, as well as the United States, with customers located from New York to California. U.S. exports account for 75 to 80 per cent of Copol’s sales, with the remaining 20 to 25 per cent being exported to other parts of Canada.

Lanoë attributes much of its success to date to its ability to listen and adapt to industry demands. With the use of plastic under COVER STORY

In May of 2019, Copol received $150,000 from the Canadian Plastics Innovation Challenge to continue their research into using biodegradable components extracted from marine waste to replace non-recyclable materials.

closer scrutiny worldwide, those demands have included altering some of the main components of their products. The company advocates for the responsible use of plastics and implements sustainable practices in the manufacturing process. To further address the concern, they are always searching for alternative materials for their products.

To jumpstart the process, Copol submitted a creative crustacean-based idea to the Canadian Plastics Innovation Challenge.

In May, 2019 it received $150,000 to continue research into using biodegradable components

APRIL 2020

extracted from marine waste to replace petroleum based materials in the making of its film products. It’s one of only six Canadian companies to receive the funding.

As part of this project, Copol is working with the Verschuren Centre at Cape Breton University to develop a biopolymer, clear film made from lobster and shrimp shells and seaweed. This new biopolymer would then be blended and integrated with CPP film to displace some of the petroleum-based polymers. Within the Canadian Plastics Innovation Challenge, Copol is the only one

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using byproducts from the ocean.

That unique component helped them win the first part of the competition. Copol’s team are now headed into further research with the the Verschuren Centre. If successful, they will advance on to phase two — creating the prototype.

Lanoë is very excited about the potential impact of this project for the future of the plastics industry.

“Taking on projects like these and our work with alternatives will help Copol to do our part towards improving the WINTER 2020 ELEVATE

environment and lessening our impact on climate change,” says Lanoë.

Copol knows that you have to take risks and explore new markets in order to take your growth to the next level. It’s about understanding your competitive edge in the international marketplace, and then getting out there and selling it.

The export and growth opportunities available to a niche-market provider like Copol International can result in lasting economic benefits to the company, Cape Breton Island and the world. ■

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INDUSTRY SHOWCASE

ECMF Welder fabricating materials for aquaculture feed barges.

PHOTOS STEVE WADDEN

Sustainably supporting aquaculture

International partnership means new clients, jobs in Cape Breton STORY KATHLEEN MACLEOD

B

ased in Edwardsville, East Coast Metal Fabrication (ECMF) field welding and fabrication shop builds products which service heavy commercial and industrial environments. Employing over 65 people, the company expects to grow substantially as this past year their workload increased by 50 per cent due to export.

Their success in exporting is the direct result of a strategic partnership with Gael Force Group, a globally recognized key supplier of marine equipment, technology and services to the aquaculture industry. Based out of Scotland, Gael Force strives to deliver highly durable turnkey solutions for fish farm site installations.

Gael Force Group and ECMF have come

Our processes along with our partnership with Gael Force Group is what gives us our competitive advantage at home and abroad.”

JOE HINES, CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, EAST COAST METAL FABRICATION INDUSTRY SHOWCASE

together to create concrete hull aquaculture feed barges for fish farming. Gael Force does the engineering work, and ECMF builds the structures weighing 1,400 tonnes, and measuring 20-feet high, 60-feet wide and 100 feet in length.

As a direct result of this international partnership, ECMF is able to streamline costs and schedules for mutual growth and export their products throughout Canada and the eastern United States.

“We have the space that allows our team to operate in stages, which means we are able to cut down our production time significantly,” says Joe Hines, Chief Operating Officer, East Coast Metal Fabrication. “Our processes along with our partnership with Gael Force Group is what gives us our competitive advantage at home and abroad.” ■

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East Coast Metal Fabrication staff building one of several aquaculture feed barges.

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INDUSTRY SHOWCASE

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PROFITS FROM PAPER

Cape Breton paper company grows economy while promoting sustainability

PHOTOS STEVE RANKIN

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INDUSTRY SHOWCASE

OUR ABILITY TO DEMONSTRATE THE SUSTAINABILITY OF OUR BUSINESS AND FORESTRY OPERATIONS IS AN IMPORTANT DIFFERENTIATOR IN THE MARKET PLACE AND IS WHAT ALLOWS US TO EXPORT OUR PRODUCTS AROUND THE GLOBE.”

ALLAN EDDY, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, PORT HAWKESBURY PAPER

STORY KATHLEEN MACLEOD

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ort Hawkesbury Paper, located in the Point Tupper Industrial Park, creates the highest quality supercalendered (glossy finish) paper available, which is used all across the globe for catalogues, magazines, inserts and wrapping paper.

It begins in the forest with careful management of select fiber species to ensure freshness of the wood entering the mill. The mill has modern world-class equipment, which is operated and maintained by its highly skilled employees. This combination, together with a keen focus on collaboration across all business units, results in a very competitive facility.

The mill’s finished product may have roots in Cape Breton and eastern Nova Scotia, but

it is being ordered and delivered across the globe to 250 print companies on five continents. The majority of their exports focus on North America, Central America and Europe, with overall exports accounting for approximately 80 per cent of their product.

“It’s a very competitive world market that we exist in. Marking our position as a world-class producer is very important,” says Allan Eddy, Business Development Manager for Port Hawkesbury Paper. “Our ability to demonstrate the sustainability of our business and forestry operations is an important differentiator in the market place and is what allows us to export our products around the globe.”

Formed in 2012, Port Hawkesbury Paper is the largest industrial employer in Cape Breton and is a key economic engine and INDUSTRY SHOWCASE

cornerstone of Inverness, Richmond and Guysborough counties, as well as the towns of Port Hawkesbury and Mulgrave.

With over 325 direct full-time equivalent positions and nearly 700 additional indirect jobs, their business is integral to the economic success of the region.

In addition to current operations, Port Hawkesbury Paper is working towards leveraging their existing assets to develop new business opportunities, such as an eco-industrial park that could eventually be home to biofuel-related projects, land-based aquaculture initiatives and more, encouraging local businesses to grow together. This initiative would not only stimulate further economic development, but also foster sustainability with Port Hawkesbury Paper as the anchor. ■

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INDUSTRY PROFILE

Partners in Export

Sharing Bras d’Or Lakes seafood with the world STORY KATHLEEN MACLEOD

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e’koqma’q First Nation is a community of just over 1,000 residents, located at the foothills of Skye Mountain. With a focus on economic development, and strategically located on the Bras d’Or Lakes, We’koqma’q First Nation has just completed its fourth harvest of steelhead trout. The operation has been growing rapidly, and We’koqma’q is focused on expanding by exporting their product to international markets in a way that preserves the environment for future generations.

To achieve this, We’koqma’q First Nation has partnered with Cooke Aquaculture to support their sales and marketing efforts.

For Cooke Aquaculture, fishing and farming is a family passion that began with fishing the waters of the Bay of Fundy six generations ago. They operate in pristine marine environments, rely on science and experts to ensure sustainability, use feed from sustainable resources and constantly search for ways to reduce their carbon footprint.

With similar values, a positive business partnership has emerged into a system that’s working. We’koqma’q First Nation grows, harvests and processes the fish, and Cooke Aquaculture looks after the transportation and marketing of the fish.

In 2018, We’koqma’q harvested nearly $2 million worth of fish. For 2019 they expect

more than $7 million in their nets.

Presently, you can find We’koqma’q steelhead trout in local grocery stores and they are currently in the process of obtaining a Better Aquaculture Practice Accreditation.

Once certified they will be ready to export internationally.

“What we’re doing in terms of fish farming is good for our Mi’kmaq culture and traditions,” says Chief Rod Googoo, We’koqma’q First Nation. “We have carved out an industry that generates revenue and jobs that won’t harm our environment, and by partnering with Cooke Aquaculture, our hope will be to develop a brand that is recognized around the globe.” ■

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WE HAVE CARVED OUT AN INDUSTRY THAT GENERATES REVENUE AND JOBS THAT WON’T HARM OUR ENVIRONMENT, AND BY PARTNERING WITH COOKE AQUACULTURE, OUR HOPE WILL BE TO DEVELOP A BRAND THAT IS RECOGNIZED AROUND THE GLOBE.” CHIEF ROD GOOGOO, WE’KOQMA’Q FIRST NATION

PHOTOS STEVE RANKIN

We'koqma'q First Nation steelhead trout operation.

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PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Exporting Cape Breton

A Q&A with Lan Zheng : Export Administrator, Export Growth Service CONTRIBUTED BY THE CAPE BRETON PARTNERSHIP

What is the Export Growth Service?

In 2018, the Cape Breton Partnership introduced this program as a way of making exporting easier for small or medium-sized Cape Breton companies. Those exploring the world of export meet with myself and a team of partners to connect them with the programs, resources, and mentors they need to succeed. Last year, the Export Growth Service had the privilege of working with 10 companies to identify the barriers and gaps they were facing, and then provide them with an Export Planning guide based on their specific needs. In our second year, we have been busy hosting an export conference, as well as workshops and training sessions to meet the export-related needs of local companies.

What brought you to Cape Breton?

It was my passion to study abroad and the opportunity to learn something new that brought me to Cape Breton in 2012.

Before arriving in Canada, I worked for more than 10 years in international business as a Purchasing Officer and Logistics Co-ordinator in a Chinese state-owned international company for six years and managed my own trading company for five years. Since coming to Cape Breton I’ve worked in international sales with a local fishery company from 2016 to 2018 and gained my Certified International Trade Professionals (CITP) designation in 2017.

INDUSTRY PROFILE

What can we expect to see from the Export Growth Service in the coming year?

We are seeking to recruit 10 more companies to participate in our Export Growth Service. I am working on defining local export needs, as well as measure and analyze the challenges of our export-interested companies. We will also continue to host training sessions and workshops, and assist companies with their growth by connecting them with experts.

How can interested companies learn more?

Reach out by email at export@capebretonpartnership.com or call the Cape Breton Partnership at 902-562-0122.

APRIL 2020

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Retaining young talent crucial to Cape Breton business Law firm EMM Law found a way to save money each time they hired a new grad

CONTRIBUTED

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law firm in the heart of Port Hawkesbury has discovered the rule of three: how to strengthen their business, strengthen their community and save money, all at the same time.

EMM Law is reducing the cost of hiring new employees with the Graduate to Opportunity (GTO) program, which covers 25 per cent of the first-year salary for a recent university or college graduate — 35 per cent if the grad is diverse — and 12.5 per cent of their second-year salary.

Managing Partner Wayne MacMillan says the recent graduates they’ve hired are bringing significant value to the firm and to his hometown.

“Retaining young workers is vital to the rural economy in Cape Breton. Not only are we able to provide great career opportunities for graduates in Port Hawkesbury, but we are benefiting from their talent every day,”

says MacMillan. “It can be costly for private practices to make a new hire, but GTO helps reduce those bottom-line costs, which is huge.”

GTO is available to small businesses, startups and non-profit organizations. Complete applications are typically approved within three to five days.

MacMillan recently hired Nakita Samson of Richmond County, who completed her studies at the Université de Moncton, and Kalysa Kirk of Sherbrooke, who attended Dalhousie’s Schulich School of Law. “Being from the area, it was very meaningful for me to be able to return home for a great job,” says Samson. “EMM Law is very committed to hiring younger people who want to build a life here.”

“They have great mentorship opportunities in place for new hires, and in a smaller firm you get the chance to quickly apply practical learnings from law school and see it come to life.”

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MacMillan believes that providing this kind of experience allows new grads to see long-term potential with the company and in the region.

“We want to support the graduates we hire so that they succeed and see a future with our company and our community,” says MacMillan. “Programs like GTO make the opportunity to invest in young talent a lot easier by giving us an upper hand on talent attraction and even succession planning.”

To date, more than 600 organizations, like EMM Law, have hired more than 1,000 recent graduates across Nova Scotia using GTO funding.

Graduate to Opportunity could save you money on the next person you hire. The process is quick and easy — applications are typically turned around within five business days.

To learn more visit: www.novascotia.ca/GTO. ■

APRIL 2020

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SAMPSON MCPHEE LAWYERS

WELCOMES TWO NEW PARTNERS

“We are pleased to name Liam Gillis and Tyler MacLennan to our partnership. Liam and Tyler are exceptional lawyers and are well respected by their clients and our community. Congratulations to our new partners on their achievements!” ~ Robert Sampson Q.C., Founding Partner, Sampson McPhee.

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PARTNERSHIP UPDATE

Partnership press Events and happenings around the region

PHOTO JEREMY MARTELL

The micro-loan program announcement in January included remarks from (L-R) Carol Ripley, CEO, Sydney Credit Union; Carla Arsenault, President & CEO, Cape Breton Partnership; Jenna Lahey, Inclusive Innovation Officer, Cape Breton Partnership; Jill McPherson, Owner, Island Folk Cider House; and Tara Milburn, Owner, Ethical Swag.

CONTRIBUTED BY Cape Breton Partnership Micro-loan program with Sydney Credit Union New businesses create new employment opportunities and both directly benefit the Cape Breton-Unama’ki economy. That is why the Cape Breton Partnership and Sydney Credit Union joined together to offer a new and exciting pilot micro-lending program for female entrepreneurs. Under the micro-loan pilot program, female entrepreneurs from across Cape Breton-Unama’ki are eligible to apply for a loan of up to $10,000. The pilot began Jan. 16 and was to run three months or until the program funds of $100,000, provided by the Sydney Credit Union, were allocated. As of midMarch, all funds were allocated to 12 female entrepreneurs. The Cape Breton Partnership will work with the Sydney Credit Union to determine the program's future.

Dream Business Pitch Night: Membertou The Cape Breton Partnership and Mashup Lab co-hosted a Dream Business Pitch Night at the Membertou Heritage Park on Dec. 12.

The Dream Business program is a six-month program where participants are provided coaching, mentorship, access to businessfocused workshops and a start-up kit to help

PHOTO JEREMY MARTELL

The 2019 Business Youth Symposium held at the Inverary Inn, Baddeck with attendance from over 80 students from across the Island.

develop ideas into viable businesses. The Dream Business Pitch Night is an opportunity for the aspiring entrepreneurs to pitch their new business ideas to a live audience.

For more information, or to apply for the Dream Business program, visit www.mashuplab.ca/dreambusiness.html.

Business Advisory series kick off Small business owners are required to wear a lot of different hats, and there is often a steep learning curve when starting or expanding a business. In an effort to assist Cape Breton-Unama’ki’s small business owners, the Cape Breton Partnership is offering free business advisory sessions on a variety of topics in 2020 across the Island.

The first sessions, facilitated by Rob Wadden, CPA, CA of Grant Thornton, on the basics of business accounting took place in Sydney and Port Hawkesbury with more sessions planned for the coming months. For more information on these sessions, or to participate in future sessions, contact Business Planning Advisor, Shannon McNeil at shannon@capebretonpartnership.com.

Cape Breton Business Youth Symposium Over 80 high school students and 30 business representatives from across Cape Breton met in Baddeck this past fall for the 2019 Business Youth Symposium. Hosted by the Cape Breton Partnership, in collaboration with the Business Education Council PARTNERSHIP UPDATE

and Nova Scotia Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, the 2019 Business Youth Symposium was a day-long event meant to expand Cape Breton youth’s awareness about career opportunities on the Island. Through a number of panel and roundtable discussions, networking opportunities and some healthy high school competitive spirit, topics covered included strong work ethic, resume skills, attention to detail, industry-specific requirements, portfolio building and managing your online presence.

EntrepreneurCB.com launch If you have a business idea, or want to start or grow your business, the Cape Breton Partnership invites you to visit www.

EntrepreneurCB.com, a one-stop shop for Cape Breton entrepreneurs. Based on business-specific needs, those visiting the site can learn more about programs and service providers around Cape Breton Island on a host of topics including product or service development, access to financing, franchising, permits and licensing, tax advice, skills training, sales and marketing, as well as export services. Launched in November, the resources will help non-profits, social enterprises, charities and traditional for-profit businesses. There are also specific sections on the website dedicated to supporting women and youth in business; Indigenous, veteran, Black and newcomer-owned businesses; as well as rural businesses.

DonBeamish,GneralM g|LarchWod

Growing business Growing your your business beyond Scotia? beyond Nova Nova Scotia?

We help.

We can help.

businesadvice,talktousfirt. Reachoutndwrkithem–’sworthi.” “ For anyone starting out, there’s government help and programs available. “ For anyone out, there’s government help and And Nova starting Scotia Business Inc. has skilled advisors whoprograms can guide available. you And Novait.

Scotia Business Inc.can hasresearch skilled advisors cannew guide you through What’s more, they and help who you find markets. through it. What’s more, they can research Reach out and work with them – it’s worthand it.” help you find new markets.

Reach out and work with them | Larch Don Beamish, General Manager Wood– it’s worth it.”

Don Beamish, General Manager | Larch Wood

Whether you are curious about expanding your businessyou through export, about discovering new markets Whether are curious expanding your or seeking business advice, talk to us first. business through export, discovering new markets

or seeking business advice, talk to us first.

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Wanda MacLean 902.227.7144 | wmaclean@nsbi.ca Regional Business Development Advisor novascotiabusiness.com | wmaclean@nsbi.ca 902.227.7144

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Take your o business to vel. the next lev Become a choice em mployer for CBU’s Work Integrated egrated Learning program.

Co-op employers are eligible to apply for subsidized funding support, up to 50% More than 300 engaged, passionate and knowledgeable CBU students participate in Work Integrated Learning programs each year.

To learn more, contact Nadine Ratchford, Manager, Career Services nadine_ratchford@cbu.ca | 902-563-1818