Whether you are looking at starting a small business, need some help with a new marketing strategy or are a student wanting to try the new Summer Company program, Muskoka’s Business Self-help office in Huntsville can be of assistance.

  “We’re here to point you in the right direction,” states Angela Benoliel, the small business consultant in the Huntsville office.

  One of many such offices funded by the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade (MEDT) in partnership with local communities, these offices “assist in the development of small businesses by providing information, advice and assistance.” The Huntsville office services the area from Orillia/Midland to Georgian Bay to South River to the Highway 35 corridor.

  “There is both reference material and material to take away,” says Angela, referring to the fully stocked business library with periodicals, business books and manuals, up to date tax regulations, information and a video library.

Other services include confidential, free business consultations on various relevant business topics, business seminars and workshops, free computer workstation with up-to-date Microsoft Office applications, graphic programs and Internet access, and Ontario Business Connects (OBC) workstations for business registrations and business name searches.  

Another of their highly successful programs is the Summer Company program, which provides students with the opportunity to develop entrepreneurial skills, and make money at the same time.

  Open to students aged 15-29, (who are returning to school in the fall) the Summer Company program includes hands-on business training and mentoring, along with awards of up to $3,000 to help students start up and run their own summer business.

Students only need a good idea to get started. A comprehensive business plan must be prepared, which is then submitted to the Huntsville Business Self-Help Office, along with an application and two letters of recommendation, by the April 2, 2002 deadline.

For more small business information contact Angela Benoliel at the Huntsville office -- toll free (1-888-696-4255), e-mail angela.benoliel@town.huntsville.on.ca, or visit the website at www.town.huntsville.on.ca/business-selfhelp.

  You’ll need to call ahead to arrange for an appointment for free confidential consultations and business registrations. Office hours are 9 am- 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday.