Entrepreneurship can often seem daunting or intimidating to those first starting out but as a wise man once said, the best place to start is the beginning. The Startup Basics Program is a part of the Discovery Parks Technology Education Program, and this fall it will be hosted in collaboration with Westbank First Nation.

The Lessons Learned session features a panel of experienced entrepreneurs who have been on the startup path for some time and have likely faced many of the same struggles you might face in your own startup adventure. This is an opportunity to learn from local startup founders so you can avoid unforeseen pitfalls. The discussion will end with 20 minutes for Q&A from the audience.

Meet the panel: 

Rhonda Dieni from Bliss Tea Kombucha

Rhonda is a serial entrepreneur who has been building businesses since 2005. Her most recent company, Bliss Tea Kombucha, was born from a passion for health and wellness that stems back to her routes as a Bikram Yoga instructor and studio owner. Bliss Tea Kombucha is made right here in the Okanagan and can be found all over the province. Rhonda’s future goal is to grow this business and promote gut health on a national level.

Sharon Bond-Hogg from  Kekuli Cafe

Don’t panic, Sharon’s got Bannock! Sharon owns and operates Kekuli Café, a First Nations owned restaurant that opened its doors in 2005 in Westbank.   Sharon has always had a passion for cooking, baking & excellent customer service and she has used this passion to celebrate culture and promote acceptance. Sharon’s goal is to ensure every customer leaves feeling welcomed… and full.

Stephen Whiting from  Streettext

Stephen is passionate about technology and business. His startup StreetText is a service for realtors and mortgage brokers that streamlines the connection between them and real estate. Since 2010 the Streetext team has been on a mission to start meaningful conversations, turn opportunities into a great business, and connect customers with new clients. Stephen wants to change the way people generate online leads and help more Realtors grow their business.

This session is open to both tech and non-tech entrepreneurs and is a great way to get some real-world intel on starting a successful startup. Visit our events page to learn more or sign up for this September 12 session.