The Business of Cannabis in a Complex System of Legalities PAGE 18

HALIFAX CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | FEBRUARY 2018 | VOLUME 27 ISSUE 02

SPECIAL EDITION OUTLOOK 2018

GOING GREEN The business of cannabis in a complex system of legalities PAGE 18

EMBOLDENED BY GROWTH APPARENT IN FORESIGHT BUILDING HALIFAX Women setting the bar high Critical factors in putting Mayor Savage looks at the in business Pg 20 Halifax on the map Pg 24 year ahead Pg 29 A DIFFERENT KIND OF UNIVERSITY

Leaders come in many forms. Since 1974, Atlantic School of Theology has been developing post-graduate students for ministry, as well as shaping leaders to meet the theological and ethical challenges of today’s world.

We invite you to discover the Atlantic School of Theology. astheology.ns.ca Volume 27 • Issue 02 City building is a feat of optimism, not boosterism; 21 Business Voice is published 10 times a year for members of of belief, not blind faith; of hard work, not busy work.” the Halifax Chamber of Commerce and Metro Halifax’s business community. Views expressed in Business Voice — Mayor of Halifax are those of the contributors and individual members, Mike Savage, and are not necessarily endorsed by, or are a policy of, the Halifax Chamber of Commerce.

No part of this publication may be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot be held COVER STORY: responsible for any errors or omissions that may occur. SPECIAL EDITION Please address editorial enquiries and changes to information to: Halifax Chamber of Commerce OUTLOOK 100-32 Akerley Boulevard, GOING Dartmouth, Nova Scotia B3B 1N1 2018 Tel: 902-468-7111 Fax: 902-468-7333 [email protected] www.halifaxchamber.com GREEN Board of Directors Mark Fraser, T4G, Chair The business of Cynthia Dorrington, Vale & Associates, Vice Chair Carol MacMillan, The Shaw Group, Past Chair cannabis in a Directors complex system Lori Barton, Beaumont Advisors Limited Don Bureaux, NSCC of legalities Jamie O’Neill, Uprise Consulting Mark Sidebottom, Nova Scotia Power Inc. Margaret Chapman, Corporate Research Associates Robert Dean, MNP Gavin MacDonald, Cox & Palmer Paul Bent, CPA ICA, CD.D Saeed El-Darahali, SimplyCast Faten Alshazly, WeUsThem Stefanie MacDonald, Halifax Paper Hearts Captain Paul W. Forget, Maritime Forces Atlantic Chamber Staff Patrick Sullivan, President and CEO Nancy M. Conrad, Senior Vice President, Policy Colin J. Bustard, Director of Finance and Administration Becky Davison, Marketing Manager Melissa MacDonald, Communications Specialist

Business Voice is published by The Chronicle Herald, Custom and Community Publishing Department 16 Publisher: Sarah Dennis Vice President, Client Marketing: Jeff Nearing Editor: Denise Surette • [email protected] Layout & Design: Peter Ross Contributing Writers: Paul Bent, Don Bureaux, Margaret Chapman, Lokapriya Jena, Stephen McNeil, Tanya Priske, Mike Savage, Jon Tattrie Sales Executive: Wanda H. Priddle, Karen Publicover 902-426-2811 ext. 1163 Cover Photo: Tyson Anderson/123RF TABLE OF CONTENTS: Copyright 2018 by The Chronicle Herald. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any article, photograph or artwork without expressed written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. 04 Events 22 Task Force update 2717 Joseph Howe Drive Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 2T2 05 President’s message 24 Immigration update Tel: 902-426-2811 TheChronicleHerald.ca 06 New & noted 26 Seniors summit Disclaimer Business Voice magazine makes no warranties of any kind, written or implied, regarding the contents of this magazine 10 Members in the news 28 Halifax Partnership and expressly disclaims any warranty regarding the accuracy or reliability of information contained herein. OUTLOOK 2018: The views contained in this magazine are those of the 29 Mayor’s message writers and advertisers; they do not necessarily reﬂ ect the views of Business Voice magazine and its publisher 16 Going green 30 Membership update The Chronicle Herald. The business of cannabis in a Publications Mail Agreement No. 40032112 complex system of legalities 34 Chair’s message Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to Halifax Chamber of Commerce. 19 Premier’s message SPECIAL FEATURES: 20 Centre for Women in 31 Workplace wellness Business update 32 Meetings and 21 Grow Halifax update conventions

BUSINESS VOICE 3 EVENTS

For a full and up-to-date list of our Chamber events, please visit CHAMBER EVENTS www.halifaxchamber.com/events

SILVER ECONOMY SUMMIT DATES: Tuesday, March 6 & Wednesday, March 7 DATE: Wednesday, February 21 TIMES: 8 am – 5 pm Annual State of the Province with TIME: 12 – 1:30 pm LOCATION: Halifax Convention Centre Premier Stephen McNeil LOCATION: Halifax Chamber of Commerce SPONSOR: NATIONAL Boardroom SAVE THE DATE! DATE: Wednesday, February 7 TIME: 11 am – 1:30 pm LOCATION: The Cunard Centre

PRESENTED BY: Design Marketing PINTS + POINTERS DATE: Wednesday, May 2 DATE: Wednesday, February 21 DATE: Thursday, February 1 TIME: 5 – 9 pm TIME: 4:30 – 6:30 pm TIME: 3:30 – 5 pm LOCATION: Halifax Convention Centre LOCATION: 780 Windmill Road LOCATION: Garrison Brewing Co. CHINA 2018 INFORMATION SESSION DATE: Monday, February 26 DATE: Thursday, June 14 TIMES: 12 – 1:30 pm or 4:30 – 6 pm TIME: 11 am – 8 pm DATE: Friday, February 16 LOCATION: Halifax Chamber of Commerce LOCATION: Brightwood Golf & Country Club TIME: 12 – 1:30 pm LOCATION: Halifax Chamber of Commerce THANK YOU TO OUR JANUARY SPONSORS:

4 FEBRUARY 2018 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Where does a year go? Change and momentum at the Chamber [email protected]

We’ve put in time, energy and dedication to ensure your membership experience continues to improve. With members in mind we’ve enhanced the events we offer, our policy and advocacy work, the cost-saving benefits and our publications.”

PATRICK SULLIVAN In 2018, you can expect to see: With all that’s going on around us, PRESIDENT & CEO • New events coming your way. time is really flying by. We all have put We’ve listened to the types of networking so much effort and dedication into build- ith membership on the rise our and learning opportunities you’ve been ing our businesses and our community Wnetwork has steadily expanded. looking for and we’re excited to offer that it seems like more time should have At the end of 2017 we were happy to them to you. passed. But with your determination, welcome more than 300 new members • Our new strategic plan. We’ve commitment and support to your fellow to the Halifax Chamber of Commerce. been pounding the drum of our 2013- Chamber members, I know that we have Growing your business is not easy and 2018 strategic plan for the past five years many good years ahead of us. I must thank our members for their and we are looking forward to focusing Here’s to another prosperous year referrals, as well as our membership team on similar, yet updated, goals and focus for Halifax. of Barbi Holland and Amber Thomas- areas on behalf of Chamber members. Johnson for their dedication and support. • Continued money saving But how did 2017 go by so quickly? opportunities. Cutting costs help you 2017 BY THE NUMBERS: You’ll notice on the side bar some invest more into your business, your • More than 300 new members of our quantitative measures of success. employees and your future. welcomed Those measures start to paint the picture • Great communication from the • 6,345 total attendance at events of 2017 at the Chamber for you, but it team. We will present issues that matter doesn’t give you all of the details on how to you and engage in conversations • 200 members participated in we got here. aboutHalifax’s future. You’ll see this the Needs Assessment Survey Business Voice, We’ve welcomed new faces to the more prominently in the • 538 members mentioned or Chamber team — offering insight and a Chamber Bulletin and on our social featured in Business Voice fresh perspective. Hopefully you have media channels over the coming months. magazine met Ashley Stobo, Emma Menchefski, • Members-only training • 312,000 visits to the Chamber Kathleen MacEachern, as well as Kayla programs offered for free or for a website Whalen and Amber Thomas-Johnson nominal fee. Business management, (maternity leave covers). They’ve been human resources and social media • 12,000-plus followers on Twitter great additions and have quickly caught marketing training — we are offering a wide • 300-plus meetings with members up to our fast-pace environment. variety of training to help you and your • 3,500-plus subscribers read the We’ve put in time, energy and team’s training level up. Halifaxchamber. Chamber Bulletin dedication to ensure your membership com/events is the most current place for a experience continues to improve. With full list of training opportunities. • 2,232 Certiﬁcates of Origin members in mind we’ve enhanced the • A cultural tour of China. A new heading to countries around the events we offer, our policy and advocacy offering from the Halifax Chamber, a world work, the cost-saving benefits and our group tour of China including hotel, • 96.5 per cent of members publications. meals and airfare from $2,299. This offer surveyed would recommend is open to members and non-members joining the Chamber and an information session will be held on Feb. 26, 2018.

BUSINESS VOICE 5 NEWSMAKERS NEW & NOTED We welcome our new Chamber members

3D BOLUS INC. ATLANTIC OFFICE PRODUCTS CINEPLEX ENTERTAINMENT ASSOCIATION 3D Bolus is a software application that Tom Perks provides Cancer Centres with turn-key The Atlantic Office Products Association 190 Chain Lake Drive software, which enables printing of is an association of office furniture, Halifax, NS patient-specific uniform thickness bolus, products, computer supplies dealers and 902-876-4832 modulated bolus for MERT (modulated suppliers in the Atlantic provinces. Our [email protected] electron radiation therapy), high dose mission is to fulfill a leadership role in www.cineplex.com rate (HDR) surface brachytherapy and providing member firms with the infor- EVENTS – Event Facilities other potential ancillary devices. mation, tools and knowledge they need Peter Hickey to help them be successful. CLUTTERBUG CLEANING & ORGANIZING INC. 1344 Summer Street, Suite 406 Jackie Caissie Halifax, NS Oromocto, NB At Clutterbug we provide quality home 902-489-0901 506-461-3058 cleaning and organizing. Our business, [email protected] [email protected] started in 2005, continues to grow. We www.3dbolus.com www.aopa.ca regard your property with the respect HEALTH CARE – NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS – and care that you deserve. We continue Medical Technologies Associations/Agencies to build relationships with our clients and look forward to working with you in BONSHAW MEDIA ACADA - ATLANTIC CANADA the future! AEROSPACE AND DEFENCE Bonshaw Media is a full service digital Celeste Levy ASSOCIATION marketing firm. We service small to large 211 Horseshoe Lake Drive Catherine MacDonald sized companies and help them do the Halifax, NS 1801 Hollis Street, Suite 230 impossible. We help companies stand 902-240-0047 Halifax, NS out from the crowd! [email protected] 902-425-0070 Melissa Neumann www.clutterbugcleaning.com [email protected] Halifax, NS INDUSTRIAL & MANUFACTURING – www.adians.ca 506-476-7111 Cleaning/Janitorial NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS – [email protected] Not-For-Proﬁt Groups www.bonshawmedia.com ADVERTISING, PR & MEDIA – Internet Marketing CORPORATE WELCOME

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DOUBLETREE BY HILTON EVENTS CAPE BRETON Wendy Fraser HALIFAX DARTMOUTH 1471 Carlton Street Events Cape Breton supports the inter- Halifax, NS The new DoubleTree by Hilton Halifax ests of their meeting, conventions and 902-446-0929 Dartmouth, fully renovated as of incentive partners through the execution [email protected] September 2017, offers contemporary of a strategic sales and marketing plan. www.hospicehalifax.ca accommodations featuring 50-inch LED Events Cape Breton captures a valuable NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS – televisions, Cuisinart dual-cup coffee share of the Atlantic corporate meetings, Charitable Organizations makers, mini-fridges and select rooms government and association business with private balconies and spectacular as well as supporting major sporting iNOVA CREDIT UNION views over the Halifax Harbour. There is events. We are a financial co-op, which means no shortage of nearby entertainment! Jennifer Shebib Jessica Dodge 20 Keltic Drive when you open a banking account with 101 Wyse Road Sydney, NS us you’re not just a customer you’re a Dartmouth, NS 902-270-8551 member owner. That means we exist 902-463-1100 [email protected] to improve your financial stability and [email protected] www.eventscapebreton.com when we profit, you profit. We are part of www.halifaxdartmouth.doubletreebyhilton.com EVENTS – Event Planning/ our community. Contact iNova today. TRAVEL & TOURISM – Management Mauro Ricordi Accommodations (General) 6150 Almon Street GO SMART MEDIA DESIGN Halifax, NS DRIVERSEAT & MARKETING 902-453-1145 DARTMOUTH & BEDFORD [email protected] Go Smart Media is a local digital marketing www.inovacreditunion.coop Driverseat is an innovative franchise and company offering web design, SEO, and FINANCE & INSURANCE – leading provider of personal transporta- social marketing services to help boost Financial/Banking tion services. Our qualified coachmen search engine rankings and brand loyalty drive you wherever you need to go, safely online! As a Google partner, our mission INTO THE MYSTIC and affordably, using your own vehicle. is to help local business in Halifax with To see the app, visit Apple Store: professional web design, SEO services “Most Feel Good Shop in Atlantic www.goo.gl/P9Ruf6 or Google Play: and other digital marketing services. Canada!” We have an amazing collec- www.goo.gl/ZS5zS8 Tom Mills tion of crystals, tumblestones, jewelery, Marko Jovanic Halifax, NS oracle cards, fantasy gifts, mountain Dartmouth, NS 888-736-2382 T-shirts, Nuwati teas and balms, 902-701-8885 [email protected] smudging supplies, incense, purses, [email protected] www.gosmartmedia.com essential oils, 12 to 16 lb salt lamps only www.driverseatinc.com/locations/ ADVERTISING, PR & MEDIA – $25. Psychic readings and jade infrared dartmouth/ Marketing Consulting sessions available daily. TRAVEL & TOURISM – Donna Niehaus Bus/Limousine/Taxi Services HALCYON SERVICES INC. 1082 Cole Harbour Road Dartmouth, NS Cindy MacLennan ELEANOR BEATON 902-469-7842 Halifax, NS & COMPANY LTD. [email protected] 902-799-0394 www.Intothemysticfolklore.ca A global learning and development [email protected] SHOPPING & SPECIALTY RETAIL – company that focuses on empowering www.Halcyonsvc.com Gifts professional women and women entrepre- COMPUTERS, IT & TECHNOLOGY – neurs to advance their careers and grow Software Consulting JET IMMIGRATION LTD. their businesses. To learn more about how we can help women in your organization, HOSPICE HALIFAX Monit Soni 1959 Upper Water Street, Suite 1301 visit www.eleanorbeaton.com Hospice Halifax is leading the devel- Halifax, NS Eleanor Beaton opment of Halifax’s first residential 905-595-2255 Windsor, NS hospice, expected to open in late 2018. 902-792-1850 [email protected] A team of experienced professionals www.jetimmigration.ca [email protected] and trained volunteers at the 10-bed www.eleanorbeaton.com BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES – hospice will help residents in living their COMMUNICATIONS – Immigration remaining lives as fully as possible, while Communications Consulting providing emotional support for their families and friends.

BUSINESS VOICE 7 NEWSMAKERS

KIDS & COMPANY Gab LeVert Joe Archibald Halifax, NS Halifax, NS Kids & Company has been offering 902-495-9951 902-818-1710 high-quality early learning and child gab@magniﬁed.co [email protected] care since 2002. We offer an innovative, www.magniﬁed.co www.oneshotparking.ca nurturing and stimulating environment ADVERTISING, PR & MEDIA – BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES – where children develop independence, Internet Marketing Management Consulting confidence and a positive sense of self and the world around them. Our cur- MARKET PURSUITS INC. PREMIERE SUITES riculum is designed to involve children in experiences that enhance language, At Market Pursuits, we believe in the Jessica Stokes 1479 Lower Water Street, Suite 190 literacy, music, movement, art and pursuit of prosperity and can help you Halifax, NS socialization. turn ideas into opportunities through 902-405-3631 Dorothy DeVouge-Morphy business skills training and management [email protected] 3260 Barrington Street, Units 1-7 consulting. We can help you develop a www.premieresuites.com Halifax, NS marketing plan, business plan, project TRAVEL & TOURISM – 902-229-8494 plan, financial forecasts or a funding Accommodations (General) [email protected] proposal. Bonnie O'Toole PERSONAL CARE & SERVICES – SCOTIA CHIROPRACTIC Hammonds Plains, NS Child Care HEALTH CENTRE INC. 902-476-3333 KILLAM APARTMENT REIT [email protected] Lisa Richard www.marketpursuits.com 579 Sackville Drive Killam Apartment REIT is a growth-ori- BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES – Lower Sackville, NS ented Canadian real estate investment Business Advisors 902-864-4411 trust. Killam owns, manages and devel- [email protected] ops multi-family residential properties OCEANCREST REALTY INC. www.scotiachiropractic.ca in Atlantic Canada, Ontario and Alberta. HEALTH CARE – Chiropractor Killam's portfolio includes $2.2 billion Oceancrest Realty is a Real Estate in real estate assets, including 14,545 Brokerage servicing clients in Halifax SOLASTA LIGHTING LTD. apartment units and 5,165 manufactured Regional Municipality and surround- ing areas. As a full service real estate We are a lighting distributor helping home community (MHC) sites. property management, contractors and Dale Noseworthy team we work with buyers, sellers and investors in real estate transactions business owners increase energy effi- 3700 Kempt Road, Suite 100 ciency by staying on top of the newest Halifax, NS spanning all of the price ranges and advances in energy efficient lighting. 902-453-9000 property types, including residential, With access to dozens of suppliers, stock [email protected] condominium, multi-unit and new www.killamproperties.com construction. on suite turnover items and free next REAL ESTATE/CONSTRUCTION – Tanya Ozard day delivery on stock items, we pride Property Management Bedford, NS ourselves on customer satisfaction. 902-483-6418 Tina McDougall MAGNIFIED PUBLIC RELATIONS [email protected] 10 Morris Drive, Unit 26 www.Oceancrestrealty.ca Darmouth, NS Magnified Public Relations is a digital REAL ESTATE/CONSTRUCTION – 902-223-5337 agency that gets the right messages Real Estate Residential [email protected] to the right people. With access to big HOME & GARDEN – Lighting data, we develop effective strategies ONE-SHOT PARKING and captivating content that strengthen SOLUTIONS STARLING SOLUTIONS INC. your brand and reinforce its goals. We One-Shot Parking Solutions is a Starling Solutions is a boutique-style specialize in social media management, Canadian parking management firm firm providing NetSuite ERP and CRM search engine optimization and content based in Halifax. We are focused on pro- services. Our focus is on understanding creation. viding exceptional service and increased your business from the ground up to revenue to our clients. Our leading-edge maximize project benefits and return technology gives our clients an advan- on investment. We are passionate about tage. We offer visitor parking solutions, process improvement, automation and pay and display managment, parking matching the proper solution with your enforcement, revenue management and unique challenges. mobile payment solutions.

8 FEBRUARY 2018 NEWSMAKERS

Mark Baker WESTDALE PROPERTIES Stephan MacLellan 305 Fergusons Cove Road Tim Reilly 6080 Young Street, Suite 402 Fergusons Cove, NS Halifax, NS 96 Highfield Park Drive, Suite 118 902-210-5750 902-240-6508 Dartmouth, NS [email protected] [email protected] 902-461-9429 www.starlingsolutions.com www.wfgconnects.com/ [email protected] BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES – stephanmaclellan www.westdaleproperties.com Business Consulting FINANCE & INSURANCE – REAL ESTATE/CONSTRUCTION – Financial Services Property Management TRAININGFIRSTCONSULTING INC. RETIRED MEMBERS Klea Jokic WORLD FINANCIAL GROUP Fall River, NS Charmaine MacIsaac Helping people of all walks of life build 902-441-8805 Dartmouth, NS a solid financial future by ensuring they klea@trainingfirstconsulting.com 902-404-0490 save and protect their income with www.trainingfirstconsulting.com [email protected] BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES – world class services and products, and Business Consulting for those that qualify, we offer the best Colin Mason career opportunity in North America! Dartmouth, NS WEB.COM Contact us today at www.wfgconnects. 902-414-4146 com/stephanmaclellan. Headquartered in Halifax, Web.com [email protected] offers a full range of Internet services to small businesses to help them succeed online with affordable solutions including domains, website Are you a new member? To submit your 50-word description for New & Noted, design and management, SEO, online please contact Melissa MacDonald, Communications Specialist at [email protected] marketing campaigns, local sales leads, or 902-481-1238 within the first six months of membership. social media, mobile products and eCommerce. Trygve Arnason 1894 Barrington Street, Suite 1100 Halifax, NS 902-749-5368 [email protected] www.web.com COMPUTERS, IT & TECHNOLOGY – Web Design

WEEKEND WARRIORS INC. We are a family owned business providing construction, renovation, landscaping, snow plowing and oil tank removal for residential, commercial properties and property management organizations. Marianne Murphy Upper Sackville, NS 902-476-1751 [email protected] REAL ESTATE/CONSTRUCTION – Contractor/Construction BARBI HOLLAND Send your referrals to: SALES CONSULTANT (902) 481-1228 MEMBER MAGNET [email protected]

REFER YOUR FAVOURITE BUSINESSES AND HELP US BUILD AN EVEN BETTER CHAMBER. Earn $50 in Chamber Bucks for each successful referral!

BUSINESS VOICE 9 NEWSMAKERS MEMBERS IN THE NEWS How our members are growing Halifax

FOREST LAKES INTRODUCES BILL MORASH NAMED CEO OF VILLAS AT THE EDGEWATER FARNELL PACKAGING LTD. Terra Firma Development Corpora- The Board of Directors of Farnell Pack- ULRIKE BAHR-GEDALIA tion is excited to announce the newest line aging Ltd. is pleased to announce that AWARDED THIRD CONSECUTIVE of homes offered at Forest Lakes Country Bill Morash has been named Chief Execu- CANADA’S MOST POWERFUL Club. Introducing Villas at The Edgewater, tive Officer of Farnell Packaging Ltd. Bill WOMEN TOP 100 AWARD these stunning three and four unit town- has held the position of CFO within the Digital Nova Scotia is proud to share that homes feature exceptional design and company and has been a member of the President and CEO, Ulrike Bahr-Gedalia, architecture, open-concept main living Farnell senior management team since has been acknowledged by the Women’s areas and beautiful views of nature and 1997. In the community, Bill serves on the Executive Network (WXN) 2017 Canada’s the first Nicklaus Design golf course east Board of Directors of Divert Nova Scotia, Most Powerful Women: Top 100 Award. of Ontario. Perfect for any family, you can a not-for-profit recycling organization With this years’ theme of “unbreakable,” enjoy the many amenities offered by Forest championing recycling in Nova Scotia. He Ulrike joins remarkable women from Lakes while living in your dream home. is a Member of the Institute of Chartered across the country that have been These homes are now pre-selling. Contact Professional Accountants of Nova Scotia recognized for resiliency, strength, focus a Forest Lakes representative today to and holds a Bachelor of Commerce from and persistence. Congratulations, Ulrike! learn more at 902-482-1394. St. Mary’s University.

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10 FEBRUARY 2018 NEWSMAKERS

NORTHWOOD RESIDENTS WELCOME SYMPHONY NOVA SCOTIA TO THEIR HOME For the third year in a row, Symphony Nova Scotia has performed a special holiday concert for residents living at Northwood. An evening performance open to the public included the North Street Singers. “To have this caliber of talent performing at Northwood is truly spectacular,” says Janet Simm, President and CEO of Northwood. “It’s events like this that empower our residents to NEW CHIEF INFORMATION live more.” This performance was made SECURITY OFFICER AT JENTU possible by the Northwood Foundation TECHNOLOGIES INC. and Purple Shield Atlantic. Proceeds Halifax Chamber member, Larry Cam- from the evening performance will fund eron, has accepted the role of Chief Infor- community recreation programming at mation Security Officer at Jentu Tech- Northwood. nologies Inc. He will manage their cyber security, R&D divisions and Atlantic DALLAS MERCER CONSULTING’S contracts. Quantus has already expanded (DMC) SUCCESS WITH CISCO’S operations into Toronto and will be doing CIRCLE OF INNOVATION pre-sales over the next 60 to 90 days. He PROGRAM ISANS BUSINESS is currently interviewing for developers Dallas Mercer, DMC’s President and MARKETPLACE APP and sales teams for the Atlantic division. CEO, was one of five individuals from ISANS Business Marketplace is a Jentu is the next advancement in cyber across the country to be chosen to partic- free, mobile friendly, web-based appli- security and intelligent desktop manage- ipate in Cisco’s 2017 Circle of Innovation cation featuring immigrant businesses. ment. Get in touch to schedule a demo of program. The program pairs a Cisco- Users create a public profile with images the product. Contact at larry@quantus. sponsored intern from the University of showcasing their products and services. biz, or visit www.jentu.ca. Waterloo and a Cisco engineer mentor The Marketplace app is an innovative with an experienced female entrepreneur approach helping Nova Scotian immi- PETER BLUNDEN NAMED to help them enhance their digital busi- grant entrepreneurs break into the busi- INDUSTRY PERSON OF THE YEAR ness strategy. This opportunity allowed ness market. Launched in October at the Fabricare Canada Magazine recently DMC to further improve its electronic Halifax Central Library to a crowd of 200 named Peter Blunden of East Coast data management systems and expand people, the user base is growing rapidly. Laundry Equipment Ltd., Industry Person its data storage capabilities. Dallas was ISANS expects to have more than 100 of the Year. East Coast Laundry is a recently featured in an article looking at immigrant businesses on the platform by major supplier of equipment in Canada women of influence, recounting both her the end of March 2018. The platform is and is active in maintaining the highest success with the Cisco program and how managed by ISANS and powered by Cur- standards of quality and service in the her former occupation inspired her to bza. Visit: www.marketplace.isans.ca. industry. Congratulations, Peter! launch DMC.

BUSINESS VOICE 11 NEWSMAKERS

MAKING A NAME IN COMMERCIAL PROPERTY CIRCLES SSI CONSULTING SOLUTIONS WELCOMES CitiGroup Properties is growing! Young. Mark will be joined by industry TRACY DIXON, BA CPHR In order to better serve the residential, veteran, Peter Constable, most recently commercial and retail property of Aurora Realty Consultants and SSI Consulting Solutions is delighted sectors, CitiGroup has strengthened MacKay Group, and a team of licensed to welcome Tracy Dixon to our team as its offerings in project management, professionals, including Tristan Costelo Consulting Partner for human resources. sales and leasing, with a new full- and Ryan Harrison. The new team With many years of senior level, service brokerage team under the joins CitiGroup’s current Manager of hands-on human resources experience, direction of retail leasing veteran, Commercial Sales and Leasing, Tracy has helped organizations adapt G. Mark Allen, most recently of Avison Earl Munroe. to changing demographic and market conditions. Her skill and commitment were key to her being a contributor in helping one organization continually improve their standing on the Top 101 Companies in Atlantic Canada, for five consecutive years. Tracy will provide significant value to our clients and will make a positive difference in their organizations.

2017 LEGACY RESEARCH GRANT AWARD-WINNER Each year, the Lung Association of Nova Scotia awards up to $25,000 for local lung health research. This year’s winner is Dr. Daria Manos and team, who are researching informed decision making as it relates to lung cancer screening. Surveys will be conducted and ELSIE MORDEN – CAMH DIFFERENCE MAKERS AWARD-WINNER patients will be interviewed to determine whether patients who are referred for No Time for That Anti-Bullying celebration. The Difference Makers low-dose CT for lung cancer screening, Society is very proud of our founder award initiative was started by Sandi have a complete understanding of the Elsie Morden on being recognized by and Jim Treliving, who were both testing that they are receiving and the the CAMH - Centre for Addiction and attending the Halifax event. Elsie has associated risks. For more information Mental Health as one of 150 Leading visited more than 500 schools across on Lung Health Research supported by Canadians for Mental Health. She Canada with our No Time for That tour LANS, visit www.ns.lung.ca. attended and performed her song using her stories and music to help and Outsiders at the Atlantic Canada inspire youth.

12 FEBRUARY 2018 NEWSMAKERS

CHAMBER MEMBERS ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP RODD HOTELS & RESORTS WELCOMES NEW NOVA SCOTIA On Dec. 5, 2017, Habitat for Humanity - fundraising and engagement initiatives, SALES MANAGER Nova Scotia launched their annual as well as one-on-one financial advice Holiday Giving Campaign with a to Habitat partner families. Together, Rodd Hotels & Resorts is very pleased $100,000 gift from Halifax-based Habitat NS and CUA will work together to welcome Michelle McAulay who joins banking institution CUA. In addition, in support of building stronger foun- the sales team as Nova Scotia Sales over the next three years, CUA will dations for families and their financial Manager. Michelle brings with her a provide volunteer hours, employee futures. wealth of experience in sales, customer service and relationship-building from her experience with Meetings and Conventions PEI as Business Development Manager - Associations Sales and from spending six years with the sales team at Rodd Hotels & Resorts. Michelle was a part of the Rodd sales team from 1999 to 2005 as Sales Manager for PEI and is now ready to take the expertise she’s learned to Nova Scotia.

BEDFORD BUY & SELL NEW NAME ANNOUNCEMENT Since 1994, Bedford Buy & Sell has been the go-to warehouse for top-brand appliances at a fraction of the cost. Supplying customers with quality new and used products from manufacturers — CARSHARE ATLANTIC LAUNCHES ONE-WAY FLEX CARS IN HALIFAX like Frigidaire, Electrolux, Kitchen-Aid Most cars are parked 90 per cent of the anywhere for as long as you want and park and Whirlpool. Bedford Buy & Sell is time, so why pay for a car when you aren’t it somewhere else in the service area at the your local, family-owned appliance using it? CarShare Atlantic’s new FLEX end. CarShare’s new FLEX-only plan has headquarters. Yelp: yelp.ca/biz/bedford- cars offer mobility on demand, with rates no membership fee, so it’s a commitment- buy-and-sell-bedford. by the minute, hour or day. Pick up a free way to access a car when you need it. FLEX car inside the service area, drive it Learn more at carshareatlantic.ca.

BUSINESS VOICE 13 NEWSMAKERS

DONATION FOR DRESS FOR SUCCESS HALIFAX Dress for Success Halifax was delighted to receive a donation from the Women in Business Association of Dalhousie Univer- sity in November, 2017. “It was a privilege to educate and share the work we do in MS SOCIETY OF CANADA, ATLANTIC DIVISION HOSTS HRM to such a diverse group of young SECOND ANNUAL WOMEN AGAINST MS GALA women and men, who honor our contributions to the community and to be chosen The MS Society of Canada, Atlantic than men. The event was well attended as their charity of choice speaker,” says Division, was honoured to host their sec- with professional women (and a few men) Brenda Saunders/Todd, Executive Direc- ond annual Women Against MS (WAMS) supporting MS research. Guests enjoyed tor. “Increasing community awareness Luncheon Gala in November, 2017. WAMS a diamond ring raffle, silent auction, a for our services and the need for financial is a powerful network of professional guest speaker living with MS and a panel donations to support our work is of the women building MS awareness and rais- discussion on leveraging professional utmost importance,” says President, ing research funds to end MS, a disease opportunities for women in Nova Scotia. Julie Wisen. For more information, please that affects women three times more Find out more at wamsgala.ca. contact [email protected].

LUKE BRYAN ANNOUNCED AS 2018 CAVENDISH BEACH MUSIC FESTIVAL HEADLINER Celebrating its 10th year, the Cavendish Beach Music Festival is thrilled to announce two-time Academy of Country Music and Country Music Association Entertainer of the Year award-winner, Luke Bryan, will be one of three main headliners for the 2018 festival. The Country music superstar will hit the stage during Atlantic Canada’s largest outdoor music event.

YELLOW CAB LAUNCHES UPGRADE In an effort to better modernize the taxi industry in Halifax, Yellow Cab is proud to announce the launch of a major oper- INTERTALK MOVES INTO NEW GLOBAL HEADQUARTERS ational upgrade! Since September 2017, IN DARTMOUTH Yellow Cab has been beta testing different techniques to better service the growing InterTalk Critical Information Sys- footprint of its previous location. The city population and higher standards tems has moved from its headquarters headquarters represents a multi-million expected from the community in HRM. of more than 20 years in Burnside, to its dollar investment by InterTalk. With It is our goal with this upgrade to provide brand new 10,500 square-ft. headquar- increased production and manufacturing Halifax with a modernized taxi service ters and manufacturing facility at 371 capacity now available, the company is that emphasizes safety, reliability and Cutler Avenue, Dartmouth. The building setting its sights on continued growth in customer service. To achieve this goal, we is located on 1.8 acres of land overlook- both the North American and interna- have completely changed and modernized ing the 118 Highway and is 2.5 times the tional markets. our full operating systems and protocols.

14 FEBRUARY 2018 NEWSMAKERS

CHRISTMAS SOCIAL SUCCESS TIC Talkers Toastmasters is pleased to announce the success of their first annual Christmas Social celebration in conjunction with an extraordinary ice-breaker speech by its newest member, Robert Sacre. “Membership has significantly grown, as there appears to be an increase in the desire and need to improve leadership and communication skills,” says President, Anne Marie Drake. If you are interested in developing your speaking or leadership skills you GRANT THORNTON’S NEW LOCATION can find out more by emailing, [email protected]. It’s smiles all around from the team entertainment hub of Halifax. The at Grant Thornton as they settle team of 185 people are very excited to BOYNECLARKE LLP into their new office space at Nova be among the first tenants to occupy WELCOMES PETER STANHOPE Centre. Combined with its central this flagship location. As the largest location, amenities and modern accounting and advisory firm in Atlantic BOYNECLARKE LLP is pleased to workspaces, Nova Centre promises to Canada, Grant Thornton is a perfect fit welcome Peter Stanhope to the firm be a destination with an energy of its for what is fast becoming a prominent as counsel. Peter joins our growing own at the heart of the financial and place of business in our region. business law team. He will be practicing primarily in commercial real estate and development, business, franchise and environmental Law. As a graduate of Dalhousie University, Peter joins BOYNECLARKE LLP from Loblaw Companies Limited where he was Senior Director of Legal Counsel. Prior to that, Peter was a Litigation Associate with McInnes Cooper. Peter is a member of the Canadian Bar Association, International Council of Shopping Centers, Law Society of Upper Canada and is currently Vice President of Administration on the Halifax Minor Baseball Association’s board of directors.

Are you launching a new business or product? The Halifax Chamber wants to share your story! Please contact Melissa MacDonald at Melissa@ COZY FUELS HAS MOVED AND NOW OFFERS PROPANE halifaxchamber.com or 902-481-1238. Cozy Fuels and The Oilman have joined customer experience and prompt service. forces with another family owned com- We have expanded our fleet to provide pany, Sullivan Fuels! Since then we have propane in addition to furnace oil, kero- introduced a new technology in both our sene and furnace light for both residential trucks and office, allowing us to accept a and commercial properties. Recently, broader range of payments while main- we moved into our new office located at taining the same level of excellence in our 36 Temple Terrace in Lower Sackville.

BUSINESS VOICE 15 SPECIAL The business of cannabis EDITION OUTLOOK in a complex system of legalities 2018 GOING GREEN By Jon Tattrie

Photo: Get Budding/Unsplash

alifax business owner Christopher charges laid earlier, noting the charges who have been developing products that HEnns has been repeatedly arrested, were “completely defunct.” He still faces are both high quality and excellent value. had his business and home raided, and the November charges, even as Canada Why we are going to dispense with an then saw many of the charges dropped as heads into the fi nal months of marijuana industry that is already in the province to Canada’s marijuana laws change. prohibition. replace it with a new industry, with players Enns owns Farm Assists Cannabis Enns has been a prominent activist who have absolutely no experience in the Resource Centre, providing safe access for marijuana for years and knows the fi eld doesn’t make a lot of sense to me.” to medicinal marijuana and products to product well. Yet when it becomes legal in As 2018 began, the federal consume it. His latest run-in with police July, he’ll remain on the outside because government under Health Canada had came in November 2017, when offi cers the provincial government will only let given licenses to grow marijuana to two pulled him over, spoke to him, searched itself sell the plant for recreational uses. Nova Scotia companies: Breathing Green his vehicle and arrested him for having “I think we’ve always had a policy Solutions and THC Inc. marijuana. He was charged with pos- here in Nova Scotia of trying to sup- Enns thinks anyone who wants to session of a controlled substance for the port local businesses, of trying to build grow the soon-to-be legal crop should be purposes of traffi cking and possession of entrepreneurship in the province,” he tells allowed to enter the market. He asks why, the proceeds of crime. Business Voice. “For the past number of if marijuana strains meet quality and The next week the federal Crown decades, we’ve been building an economy safety standards, should the government told him it was dropping a slew of similar here in Nova Scotia of cannabis producers shut out all but a few selected players?

16 FEBRUARY 2018 COVER STORY OUTLOOK 2018

Nova Scotia’s decision to sell rec- can now see enough to move forward,” In B.C., many sell openly at farmers reational marijuana exclusively at Nova the report’s introduction says. markets, with police turning a blind eye. Scotia Liquor Commission outlets goes McLellan is the chancellor for Dal- She says their expertise will be in sore against a federal task force’s recom- housie University and travels between demand once the market is legalized. If mendation that alcohol and marijuana Alberta and Nova Scotia throughout those people have been arrested for pos- should be kept apart. Craft brewers, the year. Nova Scotia’s decision to sell sessing a small amount of marijuana, she private vineyards and independent marijuana with alcohol and only through doesn’t think that should exclude them distilleries can and do create their own NSLC both go against the task force from the legal market. “We need those alcoholic products and sell them in and recommendations. people. We need their expertise and we outside of the NSLC, but that won’t The task force spoke to people need their product to meet demand.” apply to cannabis growers. Enns thinks currently breaking the law to grow The federal government has jurisdic- it should. marijuana. “Unless they’re a licensed tion over production and manufacturing. “Why is it all of a The provinces handle sudden we’re going to distribution and retail. shift this industry into In Alberta, the this hyper-regulated provincial government framework when the will control online designated grower sales, but leave over- program that’s been the-counter sales to providing [medical] private operators. cannabis for Nova Sco- “A private system will tians for a decade and mean fewer upfront a half now has been costs for the govern- quite successful?” ment and more oppor- He plans to tunities for small busi- remain focused on nesses,” the province’s medical marijuana NDP Justice Minister and worries that legal- Kathleen Ganley said ization could make it in November. harder to get. While Weeks later, Nova he hears from the Scotia Justice Minister government regularly Mark Furey said it will when they arrest him Herald Archive be illegal for private at traffic stops and raid businesses to sell his business, Enns Why we are going to dispense with an industry that is recreational marijuana says they’ve ignored already in the province to replace it with a new industry, here. “Our objective is him and other current to secure the product dispensaries when it with players who have absolutely no experience in the locally,” he said. He comes to legalizing field doesn’t make a lot of sense to me.” explained the Liberal and regulating mari- government picked juana. — Christopher Enns, the NSLC because it Speaking from her Owner, Farm Assists Cannabis Resource Centre has the “experience Bennett Jones office and expertise” to sell overlooking a small ski restricted products. hill in Edmonton, Anne McLellan agrees producer, they’re all illegal,” she says. McLellan’s task force is strongly there could be a role for small businesses. “The only legal stream for cannabis we against selling it with alcohol. “That McLellan grew up on Nova Scotia’s have today is medicinal.” is not a good thing. The chief medical Noel Shore before launching her career in Authorized patients can grow a small officers of Canada, doctors generally law and politics. She was the Liberal MP number of plants for personal use, or have — anyone in the health and public for Edmonton Centre from 1993 to 2006, a designated grower. Every other plant is safety areas — made it very plain to us rising to the offices of Deputy Prime illegal and police can and do still charge that selling alcohol and cannabis out Minister and the Attorney General of those people. The task force began by of the same retail outlet could have Canada. When Justin Trudeau’s Liberal calling them “illegal growers,” but settled very serious public health and safety government decided to legalize mari- on “artisan” or “craft” producers. consequences.” juana, it recruited McLellan to chair the “They may be growing 100 or 200 She hopes provinces learn from each task force on the legalization and regula- plants. A lot of those people have been other as legalization gets underway, and tion of cannabis. growing for a long time. They know their ensure that employees — private sector Its report was published in December product. They are ethical producers. or public sector — are properly trained 2016, laying out the challenges and chances They’re not selling to organized crime,” to sell marijuana. “We also advocated Canadians will see once the plant is legal. she says. “Yes, they’re selling illegally caution in the early years. There’s a lot “Like scraping ice from the car windows on when they go to Saturday market in their we don’t know. There will be surprises,” a cold winter morning, we believe that we village.” she says. “This is a major transformative

BUSINESS VOICE 17 COVER STORY OUTLOOK 2018 move, taking a heretofore prohibited based upon that disability and similarly of marijuana, including that it can be substance and making it a legal has a right to be respected in relation addictive. commodity.” to the treatment associated with that He cites a 2014 article published in She notes that Colorado legalized disability,” Johnston says. “But that the New England Journal of Medicine it and was surprised to discover a huge accommodation has to be a reasonable that reported long-term marijuana use demand for edibles. That meant they had accommodation.” can lead to addiction. It found about nine to put warning labels on the packages, What will be new is legal recre- per cent of people who experiment with figure out the limit for THC in pot brown- ational users. “Canadians are currently the drug will become addicted under the ies and ensure users understood the amongst the highest users of recreational criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical different effect marijuana has when eaten marijuana in the world,” he says. “The Manual of Mental Disorders. That num- compared to vaping or smoking. Edibles expectation is with legalization, usage ber jumps to 50 per cent for people who will remain illegal in Canada until 2019. will increase.” use it daily. A separate impact The question on the business com- then becomes, how munity will be figuring can employers legally out how to deal with it test for recreational in the workplace. marijuana impairment Brian Johnston among their workers? QC works with the He points to Toronto Halifax-based Stewart Transit Commission, McKelvey to advise which used an oral employers on labour swab to test for impair- and employment law. ment among staff such He says there are two as drivers. But that marijuana issues: takes days to get to the medical marijuana lab and back. and the coming legal- “It’s generally ization of recreational accepted that 10 nano- marijuana. grams per millilitre He says about equals impairment for 100,000 Canadians marijuana,” he says. are authorized to use But there is no medical marijuana, Herald Archive breathalyzer for mar- but he expects it to ijuana. That leaves a increase to 450,000 The chief medical officers of Canada, doctors generally – blood sample, which over the next decade. also takes time, and “There continues to be anyone in the health and public safety areas – made it taking an employee’s some discussion about very plain to us that selling alcohol and cannabis out of blood is considered whether a person “highly intrusive.” A who is using medical the same retail outlet could have very serious public health urine test can detect marijuana is safe to and safety consequences.” presence of marijuana, work in a safety-sen- but it’s not considered sitive workplace. A — Ann MacLellan, Chair, Task Force on legalization as precise as the oral classic example would and regulation for cannabis for the federal government, swabs and none are be operating heavy Chancellor, Dalhousie University. immediate. equipment,” he says. “Even though As medical there are challenges marijuana users increase in number, For context, about 80 per cent of in testing, in cost and in detection, the Nova Scotia employers will have to figure adult Canadians drink alcohol; 20 per reality is we are going to see much more out if that prevents employees from safely cent use marijuana recreationally. Even if marijuana in the workplace and that doing certain jobs. that doubles, it’s still half of the drinking secondly, marijuana is addictive and Post-legalization, medical marijuana population. “I don’t advocate starting over recognized at a certain level to have a real will continue to be treated as a prescrip- because if you have a policy, it’s always impact on an employee’s performance tion and employers can’t ban it under a better to try to improve it and adjust it and safe operation of vehicles, equipment drug and alcohol or safety policy. But they to future circumstances,” he says. “But and critical decision making,” he says. can say that an employee prescribed med- policies will have to be adjusted.” “It’s a real challenge for employers ication that impacts their safety or produc- He advises employers to treat legal and does require a lot of time and effort tivity must tell them about it so they can recreational marijuana as a public health and education with the workforce.” decide how to accommodate the disability issue first and foremost. “It is going to be Everyone can agree it’s high time which is the trigger for the medication. legal, but so is alcohol and so is tobacco.” Nova Scotians started asking the ques- “Someone who has a disability is He says employers could have a role to tions now, so answers will be in place entitled not to be discriminated against play in educating workers on the effects come this summer.

18 FEBRUARY 2018 PREMIER’S MESSAGE OUTLOOK 2018 Optimistic future Creating opportunities for young people, businesses and success @StephenMcNeil

STEPHEN McNEIL PREMIER OF NOVA SCOTIA

The New Year has started with a tremendous accomplishment — the Halifax Convention Centre has opened its doors. ammentorp /123RF This modern, magnificent facility will be a catalyst for economic activity. In the last two years, we’re finally back to seeing more It will create benefits across the entire province. young people coming to our province than leaving. The Nova Centre project, which We need to keep that trend going.” includes the convention centre, is the largest integrated development project in Nova Scotia’s history, but it’s even more The company used the Graduate to more immigrants to Nova Scotia. Even than that — it’s a vote of confidence in the Opportunity program to hire them. It's without an influx of refugees like we saw present and the future. a program that helps employers with the in 2016, the number of newcomers to our It shows what this province is capa- cost of hiring new graduates. We increased province is at a level not seen since the ble of when businesses and government funding for the program to help more grad- Second World War. works together. And it’s a shining exam- uates find jobs here in Nova Scotia. For Nova Scotia to keep making ple of optimism for this province — a pos- We’re building on that program’s progress, government has to do its part, itive attitude that leads to achievement. concept this year with the new program keeping its fiscal house in order and Government has adopted that kind Innovate to Opportunity. It helps master’s investing in programs that our citizens of attitude and optimism as we tackle our and PhD graduates find jobs with Nova and businesses need. province’s challenges. Our goal is to work Scotian businesses. It will help businesses That’s just what we’ve done. We’ve together to build a stronger Nova Scotia. conduct more research and it will let grad- tabled back-to-back balanced budgets, Everyone knows we’ve seen eco- uates use their skills to grow the economy. made smart long-term investments like nomic and demographic struggles. We We’re also seeing great success in pre-primary and also provided tax relief. have a plan that’s addressing them. the startup community. Last year’s increase in the small We need more of our daughters and I had an energizing visit with entre- business tax threshold benefitted 1,800 sons staying in our province and more preneurs at Volta Labs in December for businesses, while 500,000 Nova Scotians young people coming here to make a an announcement about Volta tripling its will pay less tax this year thanks to an living. space. increase in the basic personal exemption. I saw an encouraging example of To think about the innovation and This is an exciting time to be in that during a visit to a Dartmouth biotech creativity that will flourish in that technol- Nova Scotia. Our population is growing, company last year. Among the employees ogy hub is inspiring. It sends yet another tourism has been at record highs the last I met were two young women scientists. message of what’s possible in our province. two years, seafood exports are booming One was from Timberlea, happy to find In the last two years, we’re finally and our start-up community is punch- a job close to home. The other young back to seeing more young people coming above its weight nationally. There is woman had come from China to go to ing to our province than leaving. We need much more work ahead of us, but there university here and she decided she to keep that trend going. are many reasons to be positive about our wanted to stay and work. We’re also working hard to attract present and our future.

BUSINESS VOICE 19 WOMEN IN BUSINESS OUTLOOK 2018 Emboldened by growth Women accelerating business growth

Forty years ago there were 98,000 women in the work force in this province and there are now in excess of 213,000. In terms of self-employed women, Stats Canada says four decades have taken us from 8,800 women entrepreneurs to a little more than 21,300.”

TANYA PRISKE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CENTRE FOR and MSVU allowed the centre to open its Scaling your business for growth WOMEN IN BUSINESS, MOUNT doors back in 1992 and has propelled us and profitability is a focus at the centre, SAINT VINCENT UNIVERSITY forward through the decades. The result and our Advanced Management and is a huge spike in the presence of women Mentoring Program (AMMP) has been This year, I’m celebrating 15 years at in the Nova Scotia labour market. It’s one an effective tool to do just that. Service the Centre for Women in Business. of the most significant economic events providers in the program have proven the As I flipped the calendar, I reflected to have occurred in this province in stats wrong by growing their revenues by on the incredible changes I have seen at recent history. more than 50 per cent. the centre, and one thing I can tell you is How significant? Forty years ago Six years ago, the centre helped that women entrepreneurs are making there were 98,000 women in the work launch a chapter of the Women Presi- bold investments in Nova Scotia, and the force in this province and there are dent’s Organization (WPO), the ultimate results are unlike anything we have seen now in excess of 213,000. In terms of affiliation for successful women entre- before. self-employed women, Stats Canada says preneurs of privately held multi-mil- Let me set the scene. four decades have taken us from 8,800 lion-dollar companies. At the time, we In 2003, a decision to move to Pictou women entrepreneurs to a little more weren’t sure how many women-owned County resulted in an unforeseen oppor- than 21,300. businesses in this region would qualify. tunity — a chance to use my background Yet women entrepreneurs still do not Today there are four chapters in Atlantic in economic development and entrepre- make as much money as male entrepre- Canada representing more than 50 com- neurship to work exclusively with women neurs. The gap appears to be closing, but panies, with more chapters to come. business owners in northeastern Nova recent research by the government of These women are proof of what Scotia on behalf of the centre. Canada indicates otherwise, noting that is possible here. They’re accelerating I spent the next four years travelling majority-owned female SMEs had lower business growth and providing economic from the New Brunswick border to the sales per employee and fewer employees security to their communities. And Canso Causeway. I visited entrepreneurs than majority-male owned SMEs in 2011 whether they’re at the podium or seated in their homes and businesses. Many and 2014. Women are more likely to around a boardroom table, they’re not worked in isolation and we often talked operate a business in the service sector, afraid to tell you about it: the triumphs, about challenges and opportunities over rather than in knowledge and manu- the trials, the twists in the road. a cup of tea. I created bonds with clients facturing industries, which tradition- Neither are we. We are the organi- that still exist today. ally enjoy higher growth potential and zation for women entrepreneurs at any Fast-forward to 2018. I am now the profitability. stage of business and we understand Executive Director of the centre. It’s an So the question we’re asking is what how business changes with growth. entirely different organization, with a can we do now to ensure we close that gap? We’re living proof! We work with women new team, a new look and a new home Increasingly, we’re engaging with who push the limits, stare down risks, in RBC Centre for Women in Business clients to identify opportunities to build and refuse to take no for an answer. at the MSVU’s Margaret Norrie McCain their markets beyond our Canadian We’ve witnessed big changes and more Centre. Our membership has tripled and borders. As a team, we’ve made it a point are on the way. I have no doubt that in we’ve received national recognition for to learn everything we can about the another 15 years we’ll look back on these our work on inclusion and diversity. benefits of supplier diversity. It’s been numbers in amazement at how far we’ve Our goal remains the same — to a game-changer for hundreds of wom- come. boost the growth of women-owned en-owned businesses in Canada, and But until then, we’ll be here working businesses in our region and to help them will continue to be a focus of the centre, behind the scenes to provide the business grow wisely. The unfailing support of the as a way of helping women increase their tools and resources women need to shake Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency revenue as business owners. things up and excel in entrepreneurship.

20 FEBRUARY 2018 GROW HALIFAX OUTLOOK 2018

Grow WHAT DID YOU SAY? #3. HIRING #1. LACK OF BUSINESS 28% identifi ed Recruitment and 30% identifi ed Talent Supply as HALIFAX 45% identifi ed Marketing and Sales organizational challenges. as an organizational challenge These two items are separate but certainly This is not surprising news to our team linked. Halifax is positioned to have an as we hear this all of the time. Many excellent talent supply with the plethora of entrepreneurs have a strong passion universities and colleges, as well as the lower for what they do, but often do not have cost of living to stay here. With that said, the time or skills needed to keep the you may not fi nd someone who is an exact funnel full. match to your position. There is a lot to be Have you tried… said for hiring for organizational fi t, then training the candidate on the missing pieces. UPDATE 1. Reassessing your product/service This sounds more expensive, but can end up offering to determine if you are saving you a lot more in the long run. appropriately solving a problem for FOR 2018 your customer? Have you tried… 2. Developing a sales strategy and 1. Using a formal assessment tool to We're in your corner executing the steps to increase sales? measure the candidate’s fi t with your organization? Consider the Halifax Chamber of CHECK OUT: Tangent Strategies – Commerce an extension of your business. Solving your toughest selling CHECK OUT: Caliper Canada – We’re part of your team, which means we problems reducing uncertainty in hiring and are here to help you solve some of your in managing your talent toughest business challenges. We have 3. Partnering with complimentary an open-door policy, where we are eager organizations or related associations 2. Hiring a recent grad and accessing to hear about current roadblocks you are to expand your reach? local training to hone their skills? facing, so we can help facilitate some 4. Diversifying by offering new CHECK OUT: Dept. of Labour and solutions. products of services? Advanced Education – their Graduate We asked, you answered to Opportunity Program offers an CHECK OUT: Dalhousie Rowe incentive for hiring a recent graduate Last year, 20 per cent of the Halifax School of Business – RSBConnects 3. Reviewing your benefi ts package and Chamber of Commerce membership is engaging students to design and corporate culture? responded to the Grow Halifax Needs implement new business strategies in Assessment. Our members have identifi ed local companies, including designing #4. WORKING ON a few key areas where they could use a and marketing new products YOUR BUSINESS hand. WHO RESPONDED? #2. MONEY 20% identifi ed Business Management as an organizational challenge. 38% identifi ed Business Costs as Again, working in your business instead of on organizational challenges your business. Taking the time to organize This is a broad topic. Business costs range your schedule and your heavy workload from insurance, salaries and service fees to can actually free up space in your calendar. rent, utilities and interest expenses. Staying Managing people can also be very time organized and regularly dedicating time to consuming. Allowing frequent opportunities review your fi xed and variables costs can to reconnect can help make you feel on track. reduce the stress associated with Have you tried… your money. 1. Accessing resources to brush up on Have you tried… business skills that might be lacking in 1. Reviewing potential funding options? your business? CHECK OUT: Dept. of Labour and CHECK OUT: BrenDaniel – educating Advanced Education – providing businesses on project management tools and methods will lead to greater success 1 – 2 full time employees ...... 38% access to funding for Nova Scotian businesses to stay competitive and CHECK OUT: Centre for Entrepren- 3 – 10 full time employees ...... 26% productive 11 – 25 full time employees ...... 15% eurship Education and Development - 2. Hiring a fi nancial consultant to supporting entrepreneurs through 26 – 50 full time employees ...... 8% review your practices and offer ways innovative workshops 51 – 100 full time employees ...... 4% to improve? 2. Investing in leadership training to 101 – 500 full time employees ...... 7% 3. Implementing a digital fi nancial tool advance your business? 500+ full time employees ...... 2% to help track your fi nancial habits? CHECK OUT: Dalhousie Rowe School of Business – applying action-based, The make-up of the Halifax Chamber practical solutions to real life issues membership is 80 per cent small business, with 25 full-time employees or less. 3. Scheduling a regular working vacation The responses are consistent with the where you devote time to working on Halifax Chamber’s overall demographics. your business, not in your business

BUSINESS VOICE 21 TASK FORCE UPDATE OUTLOOK 2018 Grow & Nurture the Skilled Workforce Work Integrated Learning model boosts student and employer opportunities

The Halifax Chamber of Commerce learning opportunities, employers and is going through a period of evolution. post-secondary institutions can match The 2013-2018 Strategic Plan is winding skilled students and graduates with down — leaving room for new goals, fresh industry needs. faces and hopefully, if we have all worked To ensure businesses are aware of diligently enough, a few wins for the the benefits of using WIL, the Grow & business community. Nurture the Skilled Workforce is working The same can be said for the Grow on a pilot project that hopes to match & Nurture the Skilled Workforce Task businesses currently utilizing WIL with Force. Over the past few years the task those that are not. Almost like a “buddy force has focused its efforts on matching system” that guides businesses through DON BUREAUX PRESIDENT post-secondary student development to the process — from the beginning, to AND CEO, NOVA SCOTIA employer needs, enhancing primary to hiring a student and through issues that COMMUNITY COLLEGE, Grade 12 skill-development and promot- might arise during employment. Phase- CHAIR, GROW TASK FORCE ing immigration. While we will con- one of the project is to reach out to the tinue to strive for a growing workforce, Chamber’s 270 Growth Champions who the new Strategic Plan (which will be currently employ students for an in-depth released this year) will guide our dis- interview to truly understand not only I continue to applaud cussions and projects, to ensure Halifax their experience with WIL but why they businesses have the right employees and hire students. Phase-two will match par- the efforts of private potential employees can find fulfilling ticipating businesses with members look- sector employers employment. ing to become a WIL Growth Champion Growing the skilled workforce must with the Halifax Chamber of Commerce. who are showing always include Work Integrated Learning The goal of the project is to have ten new others the benefits of (WIL). What is WIL? Well, I am glad you Growth Champion members by the end asked. WIL is a model of learning that of 2018 and 100 by the end of the new providing experiential allows students to gain applied expe- strategic plan. That will significantly add learning. Through rience while enrolled in an academic to our WIL numbers in Halifax and grow course, which basically provides students the skilled workforce, the task force’s work integrated the opportunity to apply classroom skills mandate and overall goal. in the workplace and bring workplace Recently, the task force has recruited learning opportunities, skills back to the classroom. This applied new members. We were looking to add employers and post- learning can take the form of intern- new opinions, innovative ideas and ships, co-ops and apprenticeships. The engage more of our members in our secondary institutions Chamber is a big advocate of paid WIL, skilled workforce discussions. We were can match skilled as not only does it allow students to happy to add a few new members who are gain first hand skills of their designated enthusiastic about the group’s goals and students and graduates profession, but it also matches them with current projects. The Grow & Nurture with industry needs.” an employer who may be looking to hire the Skilled Workforce Task Force is when the student graduates, thus match- looking forward to continuing our work ing skills with those who need them. with inspiring businesses and committed I’m pleased to see the action being members to make Halifax a vibrant com- taken to address the workforce issues munity to live, work and play. we’re facing in the province and I continue to applaud the efforts of private sector employers who are showing others the benefits of providing experiential learning. Through work integrated

22 FEBRUARY 2018 TASK FORCE UPDATE OUTLOOK 2018 Creating a positive business environment Advocacy critical for making HRM a better place for business

While it is difficult to draw an absolute correlation between advocacy and results, the task force believes that our Chamber has the ear of the decision makers and that our views are critical to the development and application of policy.”

PAUL BENT CPA, CA, ICD.D, CHAIR, CREATE TASK FORCE

With the holidays now behind us Indicators of this include the increase leaders and their success and innovation and the business community returned to in the annual small business deduction as well as unique and evolving matters its normal activity, it’s probably a good threshold to make Nova Scotia more in specific to Halifax including the City time to take stock of the past year and line with other provinces, changes to Centre Plan and the strategy behind the also look forward to the year ahead for personal income tax impacting a segment next phase of downtown renewalContributed and our Creating a Positive Business Envi- of Nova Scotia taxpayers including the matters such as the Cogswell re-devel- ronment Task Force. elimination of provincial income tax for opment. Our task force, a sub-group of the many low-income tax payers. Another area of focus which contin- Board of your Chamber, has been in On both the provincial and munic- ues to be on the minds of our members place since the commencement of the ipal fronts our Chamber, through the is the reduction of red tape and redun- current strategic plan, which the Cham- task force, has been a strong champion dancy. Early in the coming year the task ber created back in 2013. The current of fiscal responsibility and living within force will be looking for specific exam- year marks the end of that plan and work our means. With some challenges, ples where there is common support of is well underway on the next iteration particularly at the provincial level as the need for change and from there will which will be rolled out in the coming regards labor relations, the government look to develop a means to advance these months. has recognized the need to keep budgets issues. In the meantime, work continues in balance. We will continue to support There is no doubt, 2017 was an at the task force level working with our fiscally responsible management in incredible year for our city with unprec- members, stakeholders and constituents the current year as we soon again will edented levels of growth in development to advance the agenda in support of the approach budget season. Celebrating but also in population and the feeling that objective of making our municipality Nova Scotian success and in particular we are perhaps at the edge of something and our province a better place in which success in our Halifax municipality have truly special. With that in mind we are to conduct business. Last year was both continued through our many events and seeking interested folks to join our com- a busy and successful year as many of activities throughout the year. mittee. If you have a bit of time, an area the items the task force advocated for As noted previously, 2018 marks the of particular interest and most impor- saw some movement indicating that our completion of the current phase of the tantly, a passion to make our city the government is listening. Chamber’s five-year strategic plan. Your best it can be, we want to hear from you. While it is difficult to draw an Chamber Board remains fully support- Come join us for the ride! absolute correlation between advocacy ive of the Creating a Positive Business and results, the task force believes that Environment Task Force and in partic- our Chamber has the ear of the decision ular critical files in the areas of taxation Paul Bent is Chair of the Create Task makers and that our views are critical to (property, business and personal), fiscal Force and is a recently retired Partner at the development and application of policy. responsibility, championing our business Grant Thornton LLP.

BUSINESS VOICE 23 IMMIGRATION OUTLOOK 2018 Apparent in foresight Halifax is the next Singapore

Halifax should not be constrained by comparing itself to other cities in Canada. Halifax should be compared to cities like Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Hamburg or Oslo.”

LOKAPRIYA JENA BUSINESS STRATEGIST

Two years ago, as I was walking out of a boardroom having successfully concluded a presentation and my CEO commented, “Good job Jena, so what’s next?” That simple question changed every- Vadim Petrov/123RF thing for me. I was successful, happy and felt valued where I was but that moment Five decades ago, Singapore was a onto the international stage. Our people made me ponder what I really wanted to tiny third world city-state with a nascent and our leaders need to pledge to trans- do next and where I wanted to go in life. government, small domestic market form, collaborate and deliver a compre- This mid-life question would reveal more and high levels of unemployment and hensive path, devise programs and align over time. The quest for a new beginning illiteracy. Today with a population of a policies to market Halifax to the rest of germinated. little more than fi ve million, Singapore the world. There is nothing holding us The decision to relocate to Can- has transformed into a highly developed back except our own lack of confi dence. ada and start fresh became the focus. and successful free-market economy, We must believe that we can compete Canada stood out in comparison to other home to the world’s highest number of with the big-league players. countries for being diverse, inclusive, millionaires per capita and the world’s We need to establish international respectful of fundamental freedoms and highest income levels. This is because connectivity to major cities around embracing equality. Singaporeans started thinking long-term, the world to attract trade, investment I explored various cities in Canada adopting meritocracy and focusing on and immigrants. We need to create a when I discovered this place called small wins. Halifax has its own share of co-working business space for startups Halifax. Until then I did not know that challenges but also has so much to off er and big businesses alike. We need to this city existed. I started researching to the world. We are strategically located retain the talent we produce out of our Halifax — its economic landscape, its between the two richest markets of the universities. We need to plan our infra- history, its people and its character. What world and our time zone lets us conve- structure and housing to accommodate I learned amazed me. Beyond the histor- niently and simultaneously cater to both. more and more people. But, Halifax ical backdrop of this province, I realised Similarities exist and we should use cities already knows this. It seems to me, as a its potential and what it has to off er to the like Singapore as a model to strive for new immigrant, that Halifax is on the world — I wanted to become a part of this success. precipice of becoming one of the world’s growth story. Five critical factors would take great cities. I heard Halifax calling me and I Halifax to its deserving position on the I have come here with an open mind have chosen Halifax to be my new home. world map: people, investment, momen- to help transform my new home into a I see myself as a key contributor to tum, reputation and timing. Halifax global hub. I am part of Halifax’s growth the growth and success of this prov- is already in growth mode with more story. ince. Today, Halifax is the vibrant and cranes dotting our skyline and more There is only one potential down- prosperous capital of the East Coast, but economic activity than ever before and side to all this ambition. That we may that is not enough. Halifax should not it is increasingly becoming a popular fail. However, even if we fail we would be constrained by comparing itself to immigrant destination. still move forward. I am a fi rm believer other cities in Canada. Halifax should be So, how do we transform Halifax to that one small step forward can start a compared to cities like Singapore, Hong become the next Singapore? We need a movement. Now is the time. The world is Kong, Shanghai, Hamburg or Oslo. common vision. A vision to move Halifax waiting for us. Let’s get to work.

24 FEBRUARY 2018 Join the Halifax Chamber for an adventure to… October 13 - 23, 2018 11 Day trip for only CHINA $2,299* BEIJING • SHANGHAI • SUZHOU • HANGZHOU

Your Trip • Roundtrip international airfare & Chinese domestic airfare & Tax (from TO) • 4-and 5-star hotel accommodations • 3 meals each day • Deluxe bus tours Includes: • Fluent English-speaking tour guides • Entrance fees for attractions

Day 1: YYZ/Beijing Day 5: Beijing Day 9: Hangzhou/Shanghai Check in at YYZ International Airport for an Bus excursion to the Great Wall, the 4,000 Morning boat cruise on West Lake with afternoon flight. Your adventure begins as mile long and 2,000 year old construction relaxing stopover at jewellike pagodas you fly trans-Pacific aboard a wide cabin is said to be the only man-made structure and tea houses. Afternoon tour bus trip to jetliner. visible by the naked eye from the moon. Shanghai. Visit the Ming Tombs. One of the 13 Ming Day 2: Beijing Day 10: Shanghai Emperors' Tombs is fully excavated and open Arrive in Beijing, the Capital of China by Visit the Yu Garden, a maze of marvelous for exploration. midnight. You will be met at the airport by pavilions, ponds, rocky works and your tour guide and transferred to the hotel. Day 6 - 7: Beijing/Shanghai/Suzhou overarching trees. Also visit the Bund, Fly to Shanghai, followed by a bus trip to Shanghai's famous waterfront park. Tour the Day 3 - 4: Beijing Suzhou for the Lingering Garden, Tiger Pudong Economic Development Zone. Visit the Tian An Men Square, the largest Hill, Hanshan Temple and the National square in the world, the Palace Museum, Day 11: Shanghai/Beijing/YYZ Embroidery Institute to see silk embroidery, also known as the Forbidden City, home Free time in the morning. The afternoon a local craft with thousands of years of of 24 emperors with a total space of 9,999 flight will depart by 1:30pm for YYZ where history. Dinner this evening will include a rooms, and the Summer Palace, featuring you will arrive at 10:30am on the same day. show featuring traditional Chinese music. the Long Corridor with painted gallery, Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill, Seventeen Day 8: Suzhou/Hangzhou Arch Bridge and the Marble Boat. Tour to the Morning tour bus excursion to Hangzhou Learn more at the orientation Lama Temple and the Temple of Heaven, for a visit to the Economic Development meeting: February 26, 2018 built in 1420 A.D., where the emperors Zone and the centuries-old Lingyin Temple, prayed to the heavens for a good harvest. featuring a 64.3 foot high camphor-wood 12 - 1:30 pm & 4:30 - 6:00 pm carving of Buddha. Halifax Chamber, 32 Akerley Blvd.

• Price reﬂects double occupancy • Add $500 for single occupancy • 11-day all inclusive tour package plus all the air travels (from Toronto) • Includes everything on the itinerary • Add $200 to take Terra-Cotta Warriors Itinerary • English speaking tour guide on every tour bus • Valid passport and visa required

CONTACT [email protected] or visit : HALIFAXCHAMBER.COM/CHINA

BUSINESS VOICE 25 SENIORS SUMMIT OUTLOOK 2018 Embrace the BOOM Silver Economy Summit looks at opportunities within the 50-plus market

On March 6 and 7, the Department of Seniors and the Halifax Chamber of Keynote Speaker: Ted Graham, Head of Open Innovation at GM Commerce are presenting the fourth Annual Silver Economy Summit at the Ted will give a deep look into the future economy and the opportunities new Halifax Convention Centre. This that exist for citizens, businesses and communities to thrive. two-day conference aims to educate, facilitate business growth and make con- Ted Graham is the Head of Open nections, with a theme of how technology Innovation at GM where he works with impacts one’s ability to age with ease. outside partners to solve the important Nova Scotia’s aging population problems that will shape the future brings both challenges and opportunities. of transportation. Prior to this he was The Silver Economy Summit consists the Innovation Leader at PwC Canada of two-days of local and international where he helped to turn ideas into busi- speakers focused on three main topics: ness opportunities. He is also founder of Socioeconomic contributions of older the South Core Innovation Hub, adults, healthy active living and aging a collaborative group of innovation in place. leaders from Toronto's unique waterfront area. Member organizations Why should I attend? include large banks, startups, public The Silver Economy Summit is a transportation — all of whom are look- unique opportunity for Atlantic Cana- ing to make a substantial impact on their dians. This conference will highlight companies and communities. Prior to both business and community growth PwC Ted was a Strategy Consultant at opportunities for the region. The two-day McKinsey with a focus on understand- summit welcomes attendees of all ages ing and leveraging people networks to and encourages the business community influence the spread of ideas. Contributed to join in on these important conversations. We are expecting more than 300 inventors, caregivers, students and individuals looking for information on Workshop: Gretchen Addi, Designer in Residence, Aging2.0 health and comfort, all while remaining Gretchen will be facilitating a workshop on challenging the status quo right here in Nova Scotia with the best possible care. for designing for the ageing population. Attendees will walk away with: Gretchen Addi is currently a consultant and designer-in-residence at • Local knowledge: Nova Scotia has Aging2.0. She was previously an Associ- the fastest aging population in Canada. ate Partner and business lead for IDEO Dig deeper into what this means for our for 17 years. She led IDEO’s efforts to province and how we can leverage the build a domain of work in the Aging silver economy. space as well as providing mentorship • Business opportunities: The and guidance in design research. province’s thriving tech industry presents She is passionate about the power diverse opportunities for innovation and of empathy and design, the people who investment. The conference will show- make it happen, as well as speaking case new technologies that improve the and writing on the needs of the aging quality of life for seniors. population. She brings a strong strategic • New inspiration: Let’s stop point of view to all of her work, both talking about the aging population and from a brand and service perspective. start working with them. Attendees will Gretchen is a board member for leave with a new perspective on what it San Francisco Village and At Home means to boast Canada’s fastest aging with Growing Older and on the advisory population. board for the Center for Aging + Brain Health Innovation in Toronto. Contributed

26 FEBRUARY 2018 March 6 & 7, 2018

Featured Sessions: Socioeconomic: Using Technology to Start Your Own Business By Bill Aasvangen, Executive Director, CBDC Bluewater Get more out of your Powering the Silver Economy Halifax Chamber of Commerce membership. By Nick Matheson, One Up Performance Get preferred rates and coverage that fits your needs. Healthy & Active Living: Fighting Mobility Impairment with Biotics By Chris Cowper-Smith, CEO, Spring Loaded Technology Take full advantage of You could save big* 10 Lessons Learned from when you combine your your membership. Providing Technology Coaching member preferred rates As a Halifax Chamber of Commerce member, you have access to the for Seniors and bundle your home By Sally Ng, DigiLearn TD Insurance Meloche Monnex program. and car insurance. This means you can get preferred insurance Aging in Place: rates on a wide range of home and car coverage that can be customized for Where do You Want to Die? your needs. By Benjamin Nycum, CEO, For over 65 years, TD Insurance has been William Nycum & Associates Ltd. helping Canadians find quality home and car insurance solutions. Leading Practice for Living at Home with Dementia Feel confident your home and car coverage By Ashley King & Daphne Noonan, fits your needs. Get a quote now. Co-Founders, Person Centred Universe Recommended by

For more information and registration, HOME | CAR visit www.halifaxchamber.com

Did you know?: Get a quote and see how • By 2030, more than one in four much you could save! Nova Scotians will be aged 65 and over Call 1-866-269-1371 Or,goto • More than half of Canadian tdinsurance.com/halifaxchamber baby boomers are considering or have started a business before retirement The TD Insurance Meloche Monnex program is underwritten by SECURITY NATIONAL INSURANCE COMPANY. It is distributed • The 50-plus age group is the by Meloche Monnex Insurance and Financial Services, Inc. in Quebec, by Meloche Monnex Financial Services Inc. in Ontario, fastest growing and by TD Insurance Direct Agency Inc. in the rest of Canada. Our address: 50 Place Cremazie, 12th Floor, Montreal, Quebec segment of the H2P 1B6. Due to provincial legislation, our car and recreational insurance program is not offered in British Columbia, Manitoba startup market or Saskatchewan. *Nationally, 90% of all of our clients who belong to a professional or alumni group that has an agreement • Five years after a business with us and who insure a home (excluding rentals and condos) and a car on October 31, 2016, saved $625 when compared start-up, 70 percent of businesses to the premiums they would have paid without the preferred insurance rate for groups and the multi-product discount. Savings started by older entrepreneurs were are not guaranteed and may vary based on the client’s proﬁle. Savings vary in each province and may be higher or lower than $625. All trade marks are the property of their respective owners. ® The TD logo and other TD trade-marks are the property of still operating, compared to 28 percent The Toronto-Dominion Bank. started by younger people

BUSINESS VOICE 27 HALIFAX PARTNERSHIP OUTLOOK 2018 Positive outlook for 2018 Building on the momentum of 2017

RON HANLON PRESIDENT AND CEO, HALIFAX PARTNERSHIP

Last year was another great one for Halifax, with the top headline being our record population growth. In 2016, our population grew by 2 per cent to 426,000 — above the goal of 1.7 per cent and it is projected to have grown by another 2 per cent in 2017. In 2018, we enter year-three of Hali- fax’s 2016-21 Economic Growth Plan and there are a number of big things happen- Contributed ing in the city that will continue to drive the growth we need to achieve our GDP and population goals. We are leading Together, we’re working toward a quantitative Halifax’s innovation agenda in partner- vision for the city: a population of 550,000 and ship with all three levels of government and the private sector. The Centre for a GDP of $30 billion by 2031. We all need to keep Ocean Ventures and Entrepreneurship that vision in mind in the work we do every day. is opening its doors in the spring. Volta Labs is tripling in size, creating more Halifax’s five-year Growth Plan is the road map opportunities for entrepreneurship and to achieving these economic goals.” innovation. Creative Destruction Lab-At- lantic is coming to Halifax. Dalhousie’s ideaHUB will open in 2018 to support Commerce, Discover Halifax, Consider and will be again in 2018. The Atlantic students interested in entrepreneurship. Canada Cities Alliance and others to be Immigration Program aims to make the With all these things, we’re continuing to even more assertive in our efforts to sell hiring and immigration process easier drive and accelerate growth in Halifax. and promote our great city. We will be on employers experiencing challenges The Partnership is adding resources proactive and specific in targeting global finding the labour they need. If you have and spending more time with Volta, companies that are aligned with our labour gaps to fill, contact the Partner- COVE and post-secondary institutions to value proposition. ship to learn more. deeply understand our city’s assets and We also need to continue to work Together, we’re working toward tell our innovation story in a meaningful hard in the area of labour market a quantitative vision for the city: a way, both to our community and the development to maintain this head start population of 550,000 and a GDP of world, so Halifax can be promoted as a in attracting and keeping key talent. $30 billion by 2031. We all need to keep place to innovate and grow your business. The Partnership’s Halifax Connector that vision in mind in the work we do This year, we will build on the and Game Changers programs help every day. Halifax’s five-year Growth momentum created by our Sell Halifax businesses make connections to local Plan is the road map to achieving these Program — which included Halifax’s and international talent to meet labour economic goals. Amazon bid — and leverage the energy needs. I encourage you to take advantage Let’s keep working together built around the collective effort that cre- of these programs this year. toward our collective vision for the city. ated our sales pitch. We will continue to Immigration was our main oppor- Collaboration and alignment are key to work with NSBI, the Halifax Chamber of tunity for population growth last year accelerating growth in Halifax.

28 FEBRUARY 2018 MAYOR’S MESSAGE OUTLOOK 2018 Growth and success A Positive Outlook for 2018 @MikeSavageHFX

MIKE SAVAGE MAYOR OF HALIFAX

As we embark on a new year in Hali- fax, we see before us rich opportunities to grow a broad, more innovative and more inclusive economy. Together, we are taking up the challenge of finding Halifax’s niche in a rapidly-evolving knowledge economy. At City Hall, in our universities, in the research community and in companies from startups to large corporations, Halifax is reaching out to embrace the future. At the same time, we know that as our city economy grows, and as technology advancements increasingly become a part of our everyday lives, some people thrive while others get left behind. This challenge represents a twofold opportunity for Halifax, to be a community that embraces innovation while harnessing the knowledge economy’s potential to enhance livability and social equity. This is the true measure of success in the year ahead; how we advance as a city in a way that is beneficial to all residents, those who are finding us for the first time and those who have been here the Contributed longest. I hope 2018 is the year we take real action to collectively address poverty We can design exciting new build- downtown while still supporting healthy, by creating more access to affordable ings that complement built heritage, complete communities throughout the housing, healthy food, transportation just as we can build new homes while region. and better opportunities for education we instate new green space protections. As we head into 2018, let me leave and employment. We can encourage the continued growth you with this thought. City building is After a difficult year on the global of an innovation district in the heart of a feat of optimism, not boosterism; of political front, let’s make room in Hal- downtown without forsaking the other belief, not blind faith; of hard work, not ifax in 2018 for a variety of viewpoints planks of our diverse economy that have busy work. It is the job of the Mayor and without the polarization that can impede long served us well. We can build bike Council, yes, but it is a responsibility our collective advancement as a modern, lanes while still planning for pedestrians, we share with so many who want to see vital city. new public transportation and even the Halifax continue to build a city that is not future of cars. And, we can have a strong only bigger but truly better.

BUSINESS VOICE 29 MEMBERSHIP OUTLOOK 2018 Appreciating our members The heartbeat of a Chamber

continue to enjoy and see benefit in Any time you have attending events, but also that new members are coming along to network and get suggestions, we’d love involved in discussions. If you haven’t done so already, we encourage our mem- to hear from you.” bers to bring along colleagues, to ensure it’s not only one or two people from any organization that is benefiting from and As the Chair of the Membership attending Chamber events. Committee, I am thrilled to see growing We are also seeing an increased use MARGARET CHAPMAN numbers of members, growing levels of member benefits and services. This of satisfaction and, most importantly, is great news, but we want to further VICE PRESIDENT, CORPORATE a high level of engagement among our encourage our members to look into RESEARCH ASSOCIATES members. We see this engagement in the and take advantage of the wide range positive feedback we hear about events of benefits offered. Check out the ROI At the Halifax Chamber of Commerce and growing attendance, including at the Calculator at www.halifaxchamber.com there are a huge number of activities — sold-out Mayor’s Luncheon. to see the savings your membership can from advocacy to events to benefits and One of the most positive things I’ve provide. Did you know that the average services — but members are at the heart of heard from our President, Patrick Sullivan, member of the Chamber receives more everything the Chamber does. Members is that he constantly sees new faces at than 30-times the value back from their are the reason the Chamber exists and the Chamber events. This is great news. We membership? reason all other activities take place. want to not only ensure that members Another great tool on the Chamber site is an article on the top-10 ways to activate your membership — from advertising, to the 100-plus networking events, to the use of the member-to-member marketplace or even becoming a growth champion. There’s a lot of inspiration on this list. Check it out to see how you can make even better use of your Chamber membership in 2018. Nova Scotia’s aging population is an opportunity. Looking forward to 2018, our com- Learn how to be part of it. mittee will continue to focus on ensuring that the Chamber’s events and services are not only meeting your expectations, but exceeding them. We want to ensure AdvantAGE: Embrace the that our membership continues to grow and stays engaged. We want to ensure that we represent the Halifax business community! We want to ensure that the advocacy BOOM. work is relevant to you and your business. To do so, we need to hear from you. Any MARCH 6 & 7, 2018 time you have suggestions, we’d love to hear from you. Please feel free to give us a call at 902-468-7111, or talk to any one Presented by: of our dedicated staff members. We’re happy to help.

Margaret Chapman is Vice President of Corporate Research Associates, as HALIFAXCHAMBER.COM/EVENTS/SILVER-ECONOMY-SUMMIT well as Chair of the Halifax Chamber of Commerce Membership Committee.

30 FEBRUARY 2018 SPECIAL FEATURE WORKPLACE WELLNESS Integration and interfaith Leaders joining together for a strong community By Carol Dobson

The fabric of the Halifax Regional As part of its mission, AST has cause for concern. That’s why we feel it’s Municipality has changed dramatically launched an interfaith initiative to important for us to develop these skills over the past few decades. Newcomers accomplish those goals. One of the first for leaders.” have played a major part in its transforma- actions was to hold a symposium last Bennet says one of the keystones of tion into a more multicultural and multi- March with scholars presenting from a AST’s mission is to foster an understand- faith society. While many churches are number of faith perspectives. Bennet ing among all communities of faith in the finding it a challenge to keep their doors says the school also offers courses that region. open as congregations age and fewer provide an introduction to different reli- “We’re well positioned to do this younger people come in to fill the pews, gions and that the university’s senate is because of our situation of 50 years of the newcomers are often people with a looking at building more activities based being a unique, ecumenical theological strong spiritual or religious background. on this initiative. school where we daily live and learn “We’ve found that newcomers to “In the next few months we will be about the differences of beliefs and the- Canada on the whole are often more working on developing what the future ologies among the three denominations religious and spiritual than native-born will hold,” he says. that make up our school,” Bennet says. Canadians,” Neale Bennet, the President Part of this will include a focus on “We have created an environment where of the Atlantic School of Theology, says. further developing leadership skills. people who possess different theologies, “If we want to encourage these newcom- “Integrity and leadership are central values, and views are encouraged to ers to immigrate and stay in our region, to our whole being,” he says. “When come together, to learn with, and from our community must be a place of accep- you look around the world, leadership each other, and to engage in dialogue tance where we embrace different faiths, is failing. There is so much opposition that stimulates understanding and spiritualities, and beliefs.” to different points of views, which is a fosters a sense of community.”

BUSINESS VOICE 31 SPECIAL FEATURE MEETINGS AND CONVENTIONS Out of the ordinary The Discovery Centre’s unique space offers character for any event By Carol Dobson

If your goal is to create an event in a “The new space has lots of character,” and convention side of the business — completely different space, with opportu- she says. “It’s open, inviting and modern. audio visual equipment, screens, display nities to stretch your brain while enjoying We’ve forged a great partnership with units — everything to make an event pol- the function, then the new Discovery RCR Hospitality to provide food and ished and convenient to the organizers.” Centre offers 40 thousand square ft. of beverage service and they’ve added a The site of the Discovery Centre is space designed just for your event. layer of professionalism and a lot of event ideal — close to downtown but far enough “While our primary focus is fami- experience to our offering. Guests can from the downtown hotels and the new lies, when we opened the new centre in also enjoy some fun science experiments Nova Centre to easily create an off-site February, making the space accessible while on site which can act as a form of destination for a part of a meeting or to corporate, community, multicultural, entertainment and make everyone feel conference, whether it’s a breakfast or an and not for profit events was part of our relaxed.” evening event. There’s plenty of available vision,” Jennifer Punch, the Centre’s The Centre can accommodate parking nearby, and with its location on director of marketing and sales, says. everything from a small group of 10 in its the boardwalk, conference delegates can Since it opened, the centre has board and meeting rooms, to 100 to 225 soak up the salt air en route, if they so hosted 135 separate events ranging from people on its various levels and up to 800 choose. retreats, annual general meetings, awards for an entire centre rental. “We’ve found that our location has ceremonies, holiday gatherings and team “When we envisioned using it for been an asset to our neighbours at the building sessions. The facility has a vari- meeting space, we incorporated the audio Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market and the ety of spaces available, from boardrooms, visual needs our guests would require,” Cruise Ship Pavilion,” she says. “We’ve to galleries, to the Immersive Dome The- Punch says. “So, in addition to having filled in the gap between them and the atre where visitors can enjoy a captivating the latest and greatest technology for our rest of the boardwalk area creating a star show as part of their event. exhibits, we also have tools for the meeting further destination for visitors.”

32 FEBRUARY 2018 SPECIAL FEATURE MEETINGS AND CONVENTIONS

DASC meeting and events facilities Greg Richardson Photography Beautiful, functional and socially responsible Contributed

If you are looking for a modern, shapes and it’s located conveniently in our mission long into the future,” says beautiful and functional space for your Burnside. Wilson. “It’s the opportunity to buy local next meeting, think outside the box and The competitive prices and pro- and social. It’s a great and easy way to take a look at the space at the Dartmouth fessional staff make the DASC facility invest in your community.” Adult Services Centre (DASC). an exceptional place to book your next All revenue from meetings and This non-profit social enterprise meeting or event. By booking with DASC events enhances DASC’s ability to offers a stress-free experience, and their you are “buying social” and supporting support individuals with an intellectual boardroom and training facilities have a non-profit vocational day program that disability to gain independence, employ- the latest AV technologies to ease you provides assistance for adults with intel- ment and to grow the local economy. through your next event. The hospitality lectual disabilities. For more information or to book your and large bright rooms with natural light “When you book your meetings here next event, call 902-468-6606 ext. 227 are spacious enough to accommodate up at DASC, you’re allowing us to continue or email [email protected]. to 75 guests. “Our barrier-free executive boardrooms and training rooms all include the LOOKING FOR A CHANGE OF SPACE? latest AV technology, Wi-Fi, and surround sound. We offer SMART TV/Board and Video video conferencing technology, confer- Conferencing ence phone, and podium,” says Alexandra State of the Art Wilson, DASC’s Business Development Audio Visual and Manager. Smart Board The built-in tech options make it easy Technology. for planning your event — no need to bring Free Parking your projector or sound equipment — and Free Wi-Fi. DASC has everything waiting. The facility also offers free parking, DASC Book today. Call: 902.468.6606 ext. 227 a kitchen for caterers, tables that can be Dartmouth Adult or email: [email protected] configured into a variety of functional Services Centre 50 Dorey Ave., Burnside

BUSINESS VOICE 33 MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR Finding opportunity inside challenge How to turn perceived disadvantage into real advantage @mark_fraser

This is about turning the negative of our aging population to the positive of a completely re-framed view on how we look at this population cohort.”

So what to do? Bring out the mirror, to the world of not that we have an aging I say, and look at ourselves for solutions. population, but that we have an aging I believe that we have a unique population that lives like this! opportunity in front of us, and this oppor- Seniors’ tech: The Halifax region tunity is to transform the demographic is already home to numerous technology MARK FRASER disadvantage that we have today into an and product startup companies that focus CHAIR OF THE BOARD economic advantage that tomorrow will on the seniors’ market. Whether it is become a significant contributor to our non-invasive monitoring, smart seniors e have an aging population in our region’s future economic prosperity. products, or rich analytics that predict Wregion. That is pretty obvious. But this is not about rallying com- health issues before symptoms appear, In fact, the percentage of seniors in munity around the idea of building $25 we have momentum in this space that our population is expected to grow from billion worth of ships or planning for and will benefit greatly from a larger seniors 19.9 per cent in 2016 to 28.8 per cent delivering on higher density in penin- population to test, refine and adopt new in 2030, while our working population sular Halifax. This is about turning the technology — reinforcing to the world declined from 68.4 per cent in 2011 to negative of our aging population to the that we are thinking differently about 65.6 per cent in 2016. positive of a completely re-framed view this population bubble. This sets the stage for a lower than on how we look at this population cohort. Conversation: We are already traditional tax base being used to support Let’s turn our region into the place in talking about this. This past year, the a larger than traditional population that the world to age gracefully. Province outlined its first ever Action requires services delivered from the I believe that we have all the ingredi- Plan for an Aging Population (www. public purse. All things being equal, ents required to bake this cake already — novascotia.ca/shift/) and in March, the this means less people will need to pay we just haven’t mixed them together. Chamber will host with the province the more taxes just to tread water. Without For starters: fourth Silver Economy Summit at the immigration, this demographic shift, World leading healthcare: Halifax Convention Centre. Yes, we are when combined with a low birth rate, Despite the dollars and cents challenges already talking about this, but we need shows Nova Scotia with a population that that surround healthcare delivery, we to elevate this conversation to a new level shrinks below 900,000 by 2025. have world leading and respected capa- so that we can bring all of these topics This is not a surprise. This bubble bility in gerontology, orthopaedics and together to dramatically change the has been predicted for decades and there other specialities that are in particular picture. have been efforts made to offset this demand for aging populations. Research Yes, left on its own this demographic demographic disadvantage. being done locally will only improve our bubble is a massive disadvantage for us. For instance, there have been sig- service delivery capability in these spe- But with the right kind of vision, leader- nificant efforts made on the immigration cialities and a significant source of new ship and conversation, this can be trans- front. With 2016 welcoming the largest revenue can come from seniors that live formed into an economic advantage that numbers of immigrants to Nova Scotia elsewhere that will happily pay fee for will be the envy of other regions similar since the end of the Second World War, service to get world quality care. to ours. Let’s look in the mirror to find and with 2017 numbers looking smaller Real estate development: opportunity in challenges like this. but respectable, we are attracting new- We have significant portions of our comers at a pace that will make a mean- region that remain ripe for the develop- ingful impact in our “working population” ment of new communities that target Mark Fraser is Chair of the Board numbers. But as University of Western an aging population. Seniors-by-design of Directors of the Halifax Chamber Ontario professor and economist, Mike communities can match with other of Commerce and Executive Moffat, says, “You can’t immigrate your mixed communities that are being Vice President at T4G Limited. Follow way out of a demographic bubble.” planned, which will provide a showcase Mark on Twitter at @mark_fraser

34 FEBRUARY 2018

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