Advice for Entrepreneurs from Food Talks
Here’s some advice for entrepreneurs from Vancouver’s food industry experts:
- “The biggest thing you can have is a belief and sticking with it…it’s easy to be misguided by the all-mighty dollar. Don’t deviate; whatever you’re pursuing will come through.” – Preet Marwaha, Organic Lives
- “Entrepreneurs tend to think we’re good at everything but we’re not. We’re good at one thing, maybe two. Surround yourself with really good people who can fill in all the other gaps you’ll be incredibly successful at business. Don’t try to do it all yourself.” Eric Pateman, President, Edible Canada
- “Passion and desire are nice; you’ve really got to have a friendly bank manager. You’ve got to have someone who believes in you, especially in the growth years. It’s not always in the black. Be very realistic about your cash flow. – Patrick Murphy, Vista D’Oro Farms and Winery
- “Say yes a lot. Get involved in different programs…networking is what will build and open things up to you. I have a family, a fulltime job and belong to several organizations that do fundraising. It’s gives back as much as I put into it. Les Dames, Chef’s Table Society…by volunteering and networking the doors will just keep opening up for you.” – Mary Mackay, Head Baker and Co-OwnerTerra Breads
- “CBYF helped us with a mentor for two years and an interest free loan for a year. A business plan was important.” – Ryan Slater, Juice Truck
- “There’s an incredible amount of support in Vancouver if you just put it out there. If you are passionate and put it out to this city.” – Zack Berman, Juice Truck
With thanks to Robert Womak of VanFoodster.com.
Watch the entire Volume 3 Q&A session.
