January 28, 2021
Led by Jeff Dennis (LL.B, ICD.D), Lawyer and serial entrepreneur
Finding money can be tough! Learn about how to find government grants, friends and family, angel investment, venture capital and public venture capital financing.
February 4, 2021
Led by: Brent Stirling
Do you know about the “burrito principle?” This is a crash course on SEO, website set-up, audit checklists, social media strategies and how to build one, which platforms to use, execution and measurement.
March 4, 2021
Led by Dr. Sean Wise
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to run your own business? Maybe you have an idea based on your passion and skills – or it’s come about because of the circumstances you find yourself in during these unusual times – but you just haven’t found the confidence or taken action to put it into practice yet? Join us at this interactive, informal session to explore the benefits and connect with the personal qualities of being a successful entrepreneur, network with other like-minded people, and find out once and for all if this could be for you.
Outcomes
- Explore what it takes to start up and run a successful business
- Understand the benefits and challenges, and personal qualities required, drawing on your own strengths, talents, and experiences
- Build confidence, clarity, motivation and resilience to help you to be successful
- Benefit from the opportunity to network, including breakout rooms with smaller groups, and experience a boost from amazing support from other participants
Digital Marketing Trends and Opportunities
March 11, 2021
Led By: Darrell Keezer, Founder | CEO, Candybox Marketing
Social Media has grown from helping people stay in touch with friends and family, to companies having conversations with their advocates in real-time. Businesses have started to utilize Social media channels to attract and convert prospects, but many still struggle with creating a strong online presence. As Canadians continue to be active on Social Media, business owners need to make themselves available to consumers. Learn how to build a Digital Marketing plan that doesn’t fall flat.
PR Fundamentals For Entrepreneurs
March 18, 2021
Led By: Deb Belcourt
With an average of three startups launched globally every second, competition to survive, much less thrive, is far from easy. Many startups often struggle to cut through the noise to tell their unique brand story. This session covers how to develop your story, your PR strategy and the state of the media landscape today.
March 25, 2021
Led by Phill Smith
Your site is your storefront and your virtual salesperson. You may think that your “one-liner” description for your product is the coolest thing since sliced bread, but who is it directed at?
Building a Community Around Your Product/Company
April 1, 2021
Led by: Khierstyn Ross
The strength and quality of a product’s community are key predictors of defensibility and success. Learn how to build a community from the ground up, and leverage it for growth and sales.
OPEN TO STUDENTS AND THE PUBLIC, STARTUP SCHOOL IS A ZONE LEARNING INITIATIVE AT RYERSON UNIVERSITY.