Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Trade Show Booth Rentals - Literally Creating Buzz

It seems that trade show exhibit booths rentals are getting more technologically advanced and we all know that more advanced means that it costs more money. But how do you create buzz around your company or product without spending a lot of cash?

At the recent 2009 Frankfurt Book Fair, one German publishing company found a way to use a low tech idea to create some real buzz. They used wax to attach tiny banners with their logo to 200 flies and then let the flies loose on the trade show floor. The weight of the banners kept the flies from flying higher than eye-level, which meant that it was nearly impossible for attendees to miss the flies and their message.

The message here is that it is possible to generate interest without going “all out” on cost, but instead using some ingenuity.

Sunday, August 30, 2009

Software is often where a large chunk of a small business’s budget disappears to. Buying that initial batch of office-related programs, networking and security software, and other industry-specific programs will often but a business in the red before it has had the chance to earn dollar one. However, the open source movement is poised to offer an alternative for cash-strapped startups.

While software packages like OpenOffice and Photoshop Express don’t have all the features of their high-dollar counterparts or look as slick, they will certainly get the job done. Using open source software can give your company that precious financial cushion that will protect against the pitfalls of starting a new business, such as those pesky unforeseen expenses that always seem to pop up when you least expect them.

Many of you may be turning your noses up at the idea of using open source software, but we are not suggesting this as a permanent alternative. But, simply using these free products until your business turns a profit can make all the difference.

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Smartphones for Small Business

As we have said before, mobility is often an important aspect of a small business. Small business owners are always looking for cost-effective ways to keep employees connected in the field. Smartphones are an excellent way to do this, but many fear the high cost that often accompany these technological marvels. However, smart shoppers will know where to find the best deal on smartphones.

Many modern smartphones include access to services like BlackBerry Internet Service, Google Apps, and Microsoft Exchange's over-the-air account synchronization. This means that you don't have to purchase extra servers to power your company’s smartphones. Most of the newer budget smartphones can be managed from a central hub, allowing you to control what features are accessible. For instance, there are ways to disable the built-in camera, control which applications are installed, encrypt company files, and erase the data on a lost phone.

Regardless of whether you are a small business owner looking to keep your people connected to the office or a freelancer trying to keep in touch with your ever-shifting client base, several simple smartphones are on the market that will fit your needs.

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Montreal Private School Expo

Finding the right school to send your children to is not easy. If you aren’t careful, you could send your child to an institution that does nothing to foster his or her intellectual potential. On the other hand, if you do your research and find the school the fits your child’s educational and emotional needs, your child can achieve heights beyond imagining, both now and for the rest of his or her life. If you have found yourself losing sleep over this life-altering decision, you should plan to attend the Montreal Private School Expo at the Pointe Claire Holiday Inn on September 12, 2009.

This expo, organized by Our Kids Publications, Ltd., will focus on both private and independent education. Schools that have previously been featured in Our Kids Go to Schoolmagazine will have large displays depicting both student life and the various academic programs that each school offers.

Friday, August 7, 2009

Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show

On September 15th 2009, Canada’s largest outdoor farm show is taking place in Woodstock, ON at Canada’s outdoor park. More than 40 thousand farmers will be in attendance checking out the latest innovations and technologically advanced products and services.

Everything from milking systems to precision drill & planters will be demonstrated. All legal drivers will be able to test out tractors and new equipment to shop and compare between the various brands offered at the show. Farmer’s from all over the Nation flee to this event, as it is one of the best. Surely you will find what your looking for as there is 607028.46 sq.m filled with exhibitors.

Thursday, August 6, 2009

The Ottawa Wedding Show

Come enjoy the Ottawa Wedding Show on September 12th 2009 at the Ottawa Civic Centre. If you’ve been recently engaged, then this show is ideal for you. It features prizes, fashion shows, a wedding gown sale, and all of Ottawa’s leading wedding specialists all under one roof. Everything your looking for is at this show. They’ve got flowers, cakes, music, rings, formal wear, reception facilities, catering, photography, honeymoon travel and much more. There will be a large selection of accessories at a great discount and even a wedding planning seminar that takes place on both days of the show.

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

The Western Fair

On September 11th 2009 the Western Fair located at the Western Fair Entertainment centre in London, Ontario, will open its doors once again for 10 days fun and excitement. It is known as one of the top 100 events in Ontario and is a premier family attraction. The fair will be filled with plenty of rides, games, food, exhibits, shows, entertainment, kid’s area’s, and more.

There will also be a special appearance from the band Blue Rodeo on September 5It is an ideal place to purchase the latest in consumer goods/services with over 150,000 sq. ft. filled with vendors in the commercial building. If you are also looking to promote and sell your own items, then the Western Fair is the right place for you.