Community Futures Peterborough Launches Free Workshop Series: Entrepreneurship 101

The Business Advisory Centre and Community Futures Peterborough (CFP) is launching a new, free workshop series designed to support entrepreneurs and small businesses in Peterborough City and County, announced on Tuesday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

These workshops aim to take the guesswork out of starting or growing a business while fostering a sense of community among local entrepreneurs, according to Devon Girard, CFP executive director.

“Community Futures Peterborough and our Business Advisory Centre are committed to empowering entrepreneurs and small business owners with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed,” she said. “This workshop series is a fantastic opportunity for businesses to learn, connect, and thrive in Peterborough City and County.”

The series will cover a range of essential topics for business success:

  • Business Planning and Launching Your Business: Learn how to build a strong foundation for your business and bring your ideas to life.

  • Marketing and Branding: Discover effective strategies to promote your business and build a compelling brand.

  • Funding Options for Businesses: Explore various funding opportunities and understand how to access them.

  • Understanding Cash Flow and Forecasting Finances: Gain insight into managing your finances and planning for sustainable growth.

A one-time tax preparation workshop will also be offered in March to help businesses prepare for tax season.

“This series was designed to address the most pressing needs of small business owners, providing practical insights to help them build resilient and innovative businesses,” said Rose Terry, Business Advisory Centre manager. “It’s important to create a continuous learning journey, fostering growth, and ensuring long-term success for the local business community which is why we encourage entrepreneurs to attend the entire series.”

The Entrepreneurship 101 workshop series is free and open to all entrepreneurs, anyone exploring entrepreneurship and small business owners in the region. It is held three times annually.

The first Entrepreneurship 101 Series for 2025 has been set for the following dates:

  • Feb. 5

  • Feb. 19

  • March 5

  • March 19

  • March 26 (Annual tax planning workshop)

“Funding is one of the biggest challenges entrepreneurs face, but also where the greatest opportunities lay,” said Braden Clark, CFP loan manager. “These workshops will demystify the funding process, equipping participants with the tools to secure and manage financing effectively. Understanding cash flow and having a clear financial forecast is essential for long-term success, helping business owners build confidence to make informed decisions and seize opportunities.”

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