Company Overview

The Toronto Business Development Centre (TBDC) was established in 1990 as an economic development initiative committed through business incubation and entrepreneurial programs to contribute to economic prosperity and job creation. Its offerings for start-ups and entrepreneurs include tools, resources and coaching. Together TBDC has assisted over 9,000 individuals to start and build businesses. 

Position Overview

We are seeking a motivated and organized Business Advisor to join our team and play a crucial role in the planning, coordination, and execution of community programs for individuals to learn entrepreneurial skills and build their own businesses. The ideal candidate will contribute to developing and implementing program activities. These include participant recruitment; coordinating and delivering workshops; providing advisory/coaching services; and managing engagement with program participants. This role is essential in ensuring the successful delivery of entrepreneurial programs, maintaining high-quality standards and growing TBDC’s impact building businesses.

About TBDC Community Entrepreneurial Programs

TBDC’s Programs are designed for the needs of different clientele. One program assists early-stage entrepreneurs learn what is needed to open a new venture. Program participants are provided training and resources to launch and grow businesses. The program focuses on practical skills development, business plan preparation, financial management, and operational setup. Another key community program is designed for unemployed individuals to learn elements of self-employment. Themed workshops, complimented with personal mentoring, assist participants increase their knowledge of entrepreneurship as they consider self-employment as a viable option to earn a sustainable living.

Qualifications & Experience

• Personal experience operating a full-time small business for 5+ years.
• Demonstrated facilitation experience using varied presentation methods. 
• Expertise in Marketing & Sales, Accounting & Finance, or Operations & Setup.
• Background includes advisory/mentor services to a wide range of businesses. 

Key Responsibilities

Program Design

• Work with the Program Manager to schedule information sessions, delivery of workshops and business advisory services. These support clients learn business skills, as well as the steps to launch and develop successful ventures.
• Provide appropriate resources and guidance to program participants deciding to move forward with being self-employed.
• Identify and recruit panelists and speakers to contribute to program delivery.
• Collect and manage feedback from participants and community partners for program improvements and identifying opportunities.
• Contribute to refine programming and services, including the combination of one-on-one support, workshops and events.

Program Implementation

• Review applications with other team members to select participants. 
• Promote program information to secure participant referrals.
• Deliver workshops on entrepreneurial topics including marketing & sales, operations and finance. 
• Respond to participants’ communication and conduct one-on-one advisory/coaching meetings to assist clients.
• Provide services during workshops and occasional weekend events as required.

Reporting and Monitoring

• Monitor goals and outcomes of the program.
• Maintain accurate records of program activities, mentor and partner engagements, and participant progress.
• Ensure program records and CRM systems are accurately maintained and kept up to date for TBDC and external funders/partners.
• Advise Program Manager when issues with clients occur.
• Conduct with team members risk assessments and establishing mitigation strategies to address potential challenges with program implementation.
• Assist preparing reports, presentations, and documentation for stakeholders.