Business Environment

Managing Complexity from the Inside Out: A Systems-Based Approach for Small Business Owners

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In a world increasingly beset by what some call a “polycrisis,” small business owners find themselves caught in a tangled web of demands, disruptions, and decisions. The climate is changing, supply chains are wobbling, political divisions are deepening, and the cost of doing business is anything but predictable. Yet, amidst the chaos, the role of the small business owner remains vital. Not just as an economic actor, but as a node of stability and adaptive intelligence within the broader societal system.

The Rate of Business Closures in Canada

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Since 2015, the rate of business closures in Canada has fluctuated, with significant increases during periods of economic disruption, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic. Between 2015 and 2019, the average monthly business closure rate was around 4.6%, but this spiked to over 7% in 2020 due to the pandemic. More recently, in 2024, the closure rate … Read more

Navigating the Evolving Workforce: Gig Workers, Business Ecosystems, and New Opportunities

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As the Canadian workforce continues to evolve, gig work, freelancing, and contract work have become increasingly prominent. These forms of employment are now a significant part of the labor market, influencing how businesses operate and how individuals navigate their careers. Meanwhile, the rise of business ecosystems like the Wayfinders Business Co-operative offers new opportunities for gig workers and small businesses to thrive in this changing landscape.

The Decline of American Small Business: Implications for Canadian Entrepreneurs

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The landscape of small business in the United States has undergone significant changes over the past few decades, with a marked decline in new business formations and overall economic dynamism. Several studies and reports, including those from the Brookings Institution, the Kauffman Foundation, the Economic Innovation Group, and the U.S. Census Bureau, have detailed these trends. For Canadian small business owners, understanding these findings can provide valuable insights and cautionary lessons to navigate similar challenges in our own economy.

Unlocking Growth Opportunities: The Power of Market Intelligence for Small Businesses

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In today’s dynamic and competitive business landscape, small businesses face a myriad of challenges and uncertainties. From changing consumer preferences to evolving market trends and regulatory complexities, navigating the complexities of the marketplace can be daunting. This is where market intelligence comes into play – offering invaluable insights and strategic guidance to help small businesses thrive and succeed.

Market Intelligence Report: Independent Construction and Trades Sector in Canada

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By leveraging actionable insights and strategic recommendations outlined in this Market Intelligence Report, small businesses operating in the independent construction and trades sector in Canada can navigate market complexities, seize growth opportunities, and achieve long-term success in the dynamic construction industry landscape.

Market Intelligence Report: Independent Education and Training Sector in Canada

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By leveraging the insights and recommendations outlined in this Market Intelligence Report, small businesses operating in the independent education and training sector in Canada can capitalize on growth opportunities, address market challenges, and position themselves for success in a rapidly evolving learning landscape.