MagnetSigns
Jim Veenbaas
Westlock
I would like to thank Community Futures Tawatinaw and the staff there for the extraordinary service and support I have received from the agency over the last six years.
My name is Jim Veenbaas from Westlock. I approached Community Futures Tawatinaw six years ago about financing to purchase a portable sign business.
I had already been turned down for financing by the bank I've done business with for more than 20 years, even though I never missed a payment of any kind for anything during that time.
I really wasn't expecting a positive response from Tawatinaw when I approached them, but I was pleasantly surprised when I did. From the very beginning Kelly and Ron went out of their way to be supportive and helpful.
They were looking for ways to make the financing possible, rather than putting up roadblocks to prevent it. Tawatinaw agreed to finance the business for $120,000 without hesitation. As long as the business plan made sense and it looked to be successful, they were willing to help. And without that help, there's no way I could have purchased the business.
Their support, however, went beyond mere financing. Anytime I had questions or needed information, Kelly and Ron were happy to help. During my first year of operations, it seemed like I was always dropping by the office looking for information and I was always made to feel welcome.
Once the business was up and running and operating smoothly, the staff at Community Futures stepped back and let me run the business without interference. I never felt like they were intrusive or demanding.
I will be eternally grateful to Kelly, Ron, and Community Futures Tawatinaw for their support and financing. Without it, I would have never purchased the business, which has grown and thrived over the last six years. They will never know the difference they made in the lives of everyone in my family, and I have grown to truly appreciate how important the agency is to our community.
2 Sisters Marketplace
Deb Reddeman
4812 50th Street, Westlock, AB
I wanted to start my own antique collectible business. Banks couldnt help. The people at Westlock, Community Futures Tawatinaw Region, not only helped get me started, but also helped with various courses being offered, to get me going in the right direction. Although I'm not as far ahead as I wanted to be yet, I am still going and getting stronger every day with the business. I look forward to working with Community Futures Tawatinaw Region in the next phase of my business.
Westlock North Country Market
Wendy Lister
Westlock, AB
Founded in 2012, the Westlock North Country Market has been welcomed by local residents and tourists alike. Boasting 20 individual 'shed' style stalls, as well as space available for individual tables or tents, this market has something for everyone. Community Futures Tawatinaw Region has been privileged to assist Wendy in making her dream a reality.
Just Purl Crafts and Gifts
Leahann Rottierr
Westlock, AB
Just Purl Crafts and Gifts serves the Westlock area by providing a wide selection of fine yarns and wools to the local community. In addition they also provide a variety of crafting classes as well as an outlet for local artisans to sell their wares.
Berm Saver
Site 1 Comp. 265 RR1 Dapp AB T0G 0S0
Alberta 1680900 Ltd has designed and patented a new product called the Berm Saver. The Berm Saver is a 6 inch high 4 foot long roller system with a 15 degree angled hose holder. This product addresses at least three primary concerns when transferring fluid from storage tanks. Safety, Environment & Equipment Life.
(780) 307-8171
Hymark Investments Ltd.
Mitzie Mytz
Boyle, Alberta
"I would like to start off by thanking Community Futures Tawatinaw Region for providing excellent services provided free of charge and management of my account. As you already know, I was faced with some large difficulties with my business over the last 3-4 years. I originally came to Community Futures to apply for company financing as I had been rejected by the bank I held my corporate accounts with. I appreciate the fact you took the time to discuss options and met with me for training. Until that point in time, I had never learned how to do a business plan, cash flow projection and many other useful business tools for success. These services from Community Futures were free of charge to my business and I would have not been able to receive such training at the time otherwise. As a result of my training, I did produce an excellent business plan and receive company financing to proceed with business plans.
My company is called Hymark Investments Ltd which currently has 3 different divisions. Lakeside Storage and Xcalibre Paintball were established in 2006 and received financing from Community Futures within the last 2 years. Due to the nature of the paintball park being seasonal (summer 6 months), there became alot of initial “re-opening” costs each year with the revenue being received in later months. Without the help of Community Futures financing, I would not have been able to complete projects necessary in spring months (i.e.: gravel for Storage Compound, paintball inventory, etc..). This allowed the company to meet customer demands and perform maintenance of the facility according to schedule. Since this time, I have seen positive changes in many aspects of the business while making larger debt repayments in later month with increased revenue. The 3rd division of the company was established January, 2014 with the help of Community Futures, called Hymark Pilot Services. With the purchase of new truck/equipment and offering new services, it has been proven to be a great success within the first 6 months. With this addition moving forward in 2014, it is expected to increase annual revenue to the highest point in the existence of the company since 2006. My company & staff strive to succeed but we could not have followed through with business plans in such an efficient and professional manner without the advisement and financial aid from Community Futures. We highly recommend your services to other business owners and potential new start up companies.
We look forward to doing business with you in the future!
Mitzie Mytz
Hymark Investments Ltd
Office: (780)576.2211
Fax: (780)576.2215
