"Through the SEA program I have developed a network of colleagues who share ideas, knowledge and support.  This community has helped me develop the confidence and provided the tools to push myself and my business onto success."  Laurie Luttrell, Luttrell Studios, Huntsville

"The SEA program is one of the greatest opportunities that I've been given in my life.  It has allowed me to follow my dream and create the job that I have been searching endlessly for.  Without the program, I would likely be working at yet another job that didn't make use of my talents and have to put my dream on hold indefinitely.  The program has given me the tools to make my business successful and the financial support so that I can devote the time needed to make it successful.  I can't say enough about how helpful everyone in BERN has been and the positive impact they have had on my business' success.  I have also seen so many other dreams come to life and become successful businesses."  Rebecca McKerracher, Math Medic, Wasaga Beach

"Being in the SEA program with BERN's help, helped to give me the confidence to believe that I could do this.  Thank you for a very successful first year.  I am very pleased with what I have gotten out of the program as it has helped to make my business a success."  Darryl Hincks, MD Marine Service, Utterson

"I truly believe that my business will continue to be successful with the help of this program.  I was able to learn the necessary skills to make my dream come true.  It also strengthened my communication skills and made me more confident in myself.  All the staff at BERN who taught the program offered continued support and were always there when needed."  Susan Caldwell, Red Rose Property Maintenance, Coldwater

"This program changed my life and I would not be where I am today without doing it.  Thank you!"  Jeremy Waterhouse, KOZ Records, Huntsville

"I, for one, think that the SEA program is a very important tool in helping people to establish a business of their own.  The education, support and encouragement that I myself have received from you guys is invaluable to me, and has helped me to realize my dream of working for myself."  Steve Ritchie, Oasis Home Improvement, Orillia

Testimonials

"It seems like only yesterday I was starting this program and now it has ended!  I am very grateful for all the help, encouragement and support that I have received from everyone at BERN.  Self employment would still only be a dream today without this team behind me.  Thanks and applause the entire BERN team."  Debbie Inett, Handy Hands with Heart, Barrie

"The staff at BERN are very knowledgeable, approachable and very helpful in the planning of my business.  They are very good at what they do and keeping us on track.  I have learned more than I thought I possibly would.  Brainstorming was very helpful in determining my uniqueness as a VA.  Thank you!"  Lynette McMaster, McMaster Business Solutions, Collingwood

"As a new graduate of the program, I want to thank everyone for the efforts that has changed my life.   This program gave me the time, road maps and probably most important of all...the support and belief in me.  I feel for the first time in my life that I am in control of my destiny.  I love my new business and have complete confidence in its continued success.  I am planning a future location change and to expand my business."  Joyce Bridgett, Coat N' Tails Inn, Stayner

"The SEA program was a pivotal step that allowed me to confidently start up my own business.  The training, education and networking opportunities were incredible.  Thanks to the guidance and support of the entire SEA team.  I am now earning a living doing what I love to do!"  Johanna Neuteboom, Barnboots, Port Sydney

"If it wasn't for the SEA program and their instructors, I would not be self employed.  Don't get me wrong I still would have the work but organizing a business plan, staying focused, billing, insurance information and most all the moral support would have been a crutch I don't think I would have over come.  I have dropped in unannounced to ask a question or just for moral support and have never been turned away.  I feel many new companies starting up have and would gain great knowledge in life and business through your SEA program.  These people care about people.  It's not just a job to them.  They want every business to succeed."  Scott Irwin, Scott's Fix It, Orillia

"I would just like to say how much I have appreciated the SEA program.  When I didn't know what else to do with my life, I found out about SEA and now my life has taken a turn for the best.  Without the program, I don't know where I'd be today.  All the staff at the BERN offices exude so much positivity and kindness.  They truly are all about helping people succeed."  Paula Wilson, Mobile Office Support Services, Severn Bridge

"The SEA program along with BERN has taught me how to administer, operate and market my business to be an up and coming success with the industry."  Bruce Rodgers, Rebel Recreation Motorsports, Waubaushene

"I have learned a lot of valuable business ideas relating to our business concept, sales marketing and financial planning.  We have learned to set goals and how to achieve them.  The staff has been very helpful with giving us training and inviting guest speakers on topics of our choosing for more of an individualized support service for each of our businesses.  I have personally enjoyed this whole experience of networking with other people starting their own business as well."  Angelique Mesei, One Handy Woman, Orillia

"This system for the self employment assistance has been great for me. I have progressed on a dream with sound advice from all. We all benefit from each others experience in the classroom form."  Dan Walsh, Essa Small Engine & Power Services, Barrie

"Although I had worked in the business world for more than twenty-five years, I realize I didn’t really know what planning it takes to make a company function and prosper. Thanks to the great advice of the SEA speakers, motivators and leaders, I now know how to implement, develop and grow a profitable business." Linda Perry, Simcoe Bookkeeping & More, Angus

"Thank you to the BERN team and the SEA program. The expertise that has been provided is invaluable. The SEA program enabled me to start my own business … assisted (me) in bringing all of my skills and knowledge together in a package..(and) build confidence which is definitely needed when starting a new business." Tabatha Vidito, Excel in Office, Barrie

"I feel that I would not have been able to succeed without the professional training and knowledge I received from the BERN office.  Thank you so much for allowing me the opportunity to be involved in the SEA program and I am confident that I will be a successful entrepreneur."  Andrea Landriault, Sunny Day Home Support, Orillia

"The SEA program at BERN taught me many things I needed to know before entering the business world. They fully backed me with open arms giving support and answers whenever needed. The people they know(BERN staff); combined with the alumni and current participants provided endless Net Working possibilities for my business, and helped make my first year a relative success. The alliances, connections and most importantly the friends you make here, combined with all the places you go; are all stepping stones down a path to a successful business." Mike Stones, Sticks & Stones Landscaping, Barrie

"I would like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation for all the help and understanding in getting my life long dream of opening and operating my bed and breakfast to fruition.  Your being available for my numerous inquiries in regard to the marketing, bookkeeping, etc.  Networking with other newbies has been invaluable."  Sharlene Martin, Dockside B&B, Orillia

"The idea of starting a business has always been on my mind. Taking up the challenge to step out was not possible if not for the assistance provided by the SEA program. I was given guidance and advice on how to write my business plan, received remarkable professional lectures from accountants to lawyers, bankers to successful entrepreneurs. It’s been almost 1 ½ years since I started my own Travel Marketing Company. The business literally started from ground up. Today, I have a group of steady clients and many more in the pipe line, met the first 5 years of my target and moving on to hire assistants to grow the business." Jasmine Bates, Arabesque Global, Barrie

"I would like to express my satisfaction and delight at having a program like SEA to support me through the initial phases of becoming an entrepreneur.  Not only is there a wealth of information available to assist us, but there is an ever growing network of individuals who support each other in all aspects of our business."  Faye Rose, Rose Lane Equine Services, Orillia

"I was recently asked to volunteer for a pilot project with Canada Revenue Agency. Thanks to what I learned in the SEA program, I’m happy to say that my financial statements were actually commended!" Isabel Fernandes, Ki2life, Wasaga Beach

"I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to participate in the excellent training I received through the SEA program. Not only did I have excellent training on practical matters such as time scheduling, accounting and press releases, I learned how to think like an entrepreneur. That’s quite a change from being an employee and requires a major shift in attitude. I feel I’ve learned how to work “smart” with the training I received in the SEA program; I now have the tools I need to make a success out of my business. Thanks to all the staff at the BERN Centre for their assistance over the last 12 months." Barbara Donnelly, Home & Garden Retreats, Barrie

"I would like to thank you all for the opportunity to participate in a great business development program. I would not have been able to explore, research, plan, test, market and implement my business idea for a year without the financial and business support of the SEA Program. I felt that I could take my business in whatever direction I wanted based on my vision, values and strengths. The Business Enterprise Resource Network Team were always willing to provide me with, or guide me to, whatever resources I needed. The presenting speakers are always knowledgeable and professional providing invaluable information to new business owners." Lisa Bailey, Cognitive Design Werks, Barrie

"I am extremely happy and grateful for this wonderful opportunity to move forward with the assistance of the SEA Team members. I look forward to implementing my plan with a focused mind and a strong understanding of the needs and desires of my clients. Above all, I have found the program has convinced me that I am on the right path, that we are capable of anything, all we have to do is be willing to work hard and persevere. Namaste" Michele Chretien-Smith, Leaning Tree Yoga, Barrie