Thinking about turning your dream of owning a business into reality?
Then you’re in good company because Community Futures of Greater Trail has experienced business mentors ready to explore the possibilities and eager to turn the dream into a reality.
Having launched and sold a highly successful company out of the Community Futures business incubator, general manager Don Freschi is ready to lend his business acumen to the next generation of innovators and visionaries.
Earlier this year, life went full circle for Freschi when he accepted this position.
“I came from Firebird with a business background,” he said.
“After that contract ended, I thought I would like to give back to the community somehow, and this was the best way.”
Community Futures of Greater Trail, located on Spokane Street next to the post office, offers new business start-up mentorships and support to those with an entrepreneurial spirit.
“Community Futures provides many programs but our main purpose is business mentoring,” explained Freschi.
“We will help with strategies on how to start and maintain your business and how to make it better.”
Freschi said that the succession planning courses and workshops are free, with online virtual work shops available for a small fee.
“We want people to know about these opportunities, because we are all about building a successful business within the community.”
Costs for long-term leases, business signage, or necessary office equipment and furniture are alleviated with the South Kootenay Business Centre, located inside the building.
“For $350 to $400 a month (lease-free), our furnished office spaces can start you off, everything is supplied to you,” said Freschi.
“It is important for the community to know that we are here and ready to help.”
A recent initiative called the Micro Loan program provides entrepreneurs a loan of up to $10,000 to improve cash flow, purchase equipment, improve inventory or use as working capital.
“For example, if you need to buy a new lawn mower or patio furniture to maintain your business, we can help,” he said.
“It is quick and meant to keep the business going.”
Besides mentoring, Freschi is passionate about revitalizing the downtown core in Trail.
His main driver is business rallying.
“Because after a year or two when the business is ready, we can help move it into the community, which in turn helps everyone.”
5N Plus, formerly known as Firebird Technologies, is a Trail company that started on a whim in the Community Futures business incubator by Freschi and partners.
For more information, call 364-2595, visit the location at 825 Spokane Street in downtown Trail, or view the website communityfutures.com.