Bridges to Better Business Returns for Small Business Week
October 20, 2025Cornwall Ontario – One of the most anticipated events on the small business calendar is on the horizon.
Bridges to Better Business will once again be the highlight of Small Business Week (October 20-24), and as in past years, the Cornwall SDG Business Enterprise Centre and the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce have partnered to provide valuable resources, networking opportunities, and educational workshops to support the growth and success of local businesses.
We’re excited to partner with the Cornwall & Area Chamber of Commerce and bring the community together for this year’s Bridges to Better Business event,” said Mireille Lemire, Business Advisor at the Cornwall SDG Business Enterprise Centre. “This event gives small business owners and business professionals a chance to learn from experts, connect with peers, and discover new ways to grow and thrive. By working together, we can strengthen our local business community and foster continued success”.
The Bridges to Better Business event will feature a variety of engaging activities, both online and in-person. The schedule includes:
- Keynote Speaker – Andrew Patricio, Founder & CEO of BizLaunch
- Andrew Patricio is an internationally recognized small business expert, entrepreneur, and author. He is the founder of BizLaunch, a global training company that mentors and supports entrepreneurs. With over 25 years of experience, Andrew has started seven businesses, written two books, and delivered seminars, webinars, and workshops on business planning, financial management, marketing, and leadership. He has trained and inspired small business owners across Canada and in 24 countries worldwide, sharing practical tools and advice to help them grow and scale successfully.
- Workshop: Roadmap to Building a Brand (Cris Urroz)
- In this quick, practical workshop, Cristian Urroz, co-founder of Cornwall-based brand studio Urroz, shares a clear roadmap to building a brand people remember—what it is, why it matters, and how to focus on the essentials. We’ll cover the key components, common gaps to tighten, and how audience perception shapes everything. You’ll leave with simple brand and marketing basics, a focused starting point, and an easy review rhythm you can adapt as your goals evolve.
- Workshop: Buying for Growth: Mastering the Business Acquisition Journey (François Bruyère)
- In this workshop, discover how acquiring an existing business can be a powerful way to expand and scale. This workshop will guide you through identifying the right target, knowing when to engage your lender, and structuring a successful deal. Learn the key roles of professional advisors, common pitfalls to avoid, and winning strategies to ensure a smooth and rewarding acquisition process. Presented by François Bruyère, a Commercial Account Manager with Desjardins, the largest credit union in Canada.
- Workshop: Automating Engagement: From First Contact to Client in Minutes (Nel-Kevin Junior Dubois)
- In this session, you will discover how responding to an inquiry within five minutes can make you 100 times more likely to close a new client. You will then experience this speed firsthand through a live, hands-on demonstration of an intelligent automation system, receiving an instant, human-like response after acting as a prospective client. Prepare to leave with a clear strategy to slash your response times, dramatically increase conversion rates, and make your business future-ready. Presented by Nel-Kevin Junior Dubois,founder of LiFet Media.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our community, and this event provides a valuable platform for entrepreneurs and business owners to connect, learn, and grow,” said Angela Bero, General Manager of the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce. “We encourage everyone to participate and take advantage of the diverse range of activities and resources available. Together, we can support and strengthen our local business community.”
Registration
The Bridges to Better Business will take place Wednesday October 22, from 8:00 AM to Noon. The event is open to all business owners, entrepreneurs, and individuals interested in starting their own businesses. Tickets are $40 and include a delicious breakfast buffet, energizing breaks with tasty snacks, 3 dynamic workshops, and the chance to hear from our exciting guest speaker – all while networking with the best of our local business community!
To register, please visit Bridges to Better Business – Pathways to Growth
About Cornwall Business Enterprise Centre
The Cornwall Business Enterprise Centre is a valuable resource for entrepreneurs and small business owners in Cornwall and the surrounding area. They provide support, guidance, and resources to help businesses start, grow, and succeed.
About Cornwall Chamber of Commerce
The Cornwall Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic organization dedicated to promoting and supporting the local business community in Cornwall. They provide networking opportunities, advocacy, and resources to help businesses thrive.