Dalhousie University marked Small Business Week last week by hosting a series of activities designed to support entrepreneurs and business owners across Nova Scotia.
Three virtual workshops focused on rural business resilience, succession planning and the practical use of artificial intelligence in business. More than 100 people from communities across Nova Scotia participated in the sessions.
“It was a pleasure to be part of Small Business Week and connect with Nova Scotia’s small business community,” says Dr. Tasha Richard, an assistant professor of entrepreneurship at the Faculty of Agriculture in Truro who co- hosted the Preparing for the Future: Succession Strategies for Small Business Owners session last week.
“Small businesses are at the heart of our communities, and conversations about succession and transition are so important to ensuring their continued success,” she says. “I always appreciate opportunities to bring research and practical experience together in ways that support the people building and sustaining businesses across our province.”
Small businesses are at the heart of our communities, and conversations about succession and transition are so important to ensuring their continued success.
The discussions highlighted the importance of strengthening rural economies, supporting business continuity and equipping organizations with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate change and seize new opportunities. The strong turnout and active participation demonstrated growing interest in practical, community-focused learning opportunities.
The workshops also underscored the value of bringing together researchers, business owners, community leaders and economic development professionals to exchange ideas and build connections.
“I appreciate the effort made by Dalhousie to develop relationships with rural municipalities,” says Elspeth McLean-Wile, mayor of the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg and workshop participant. “Deepening those relationships will lead to more collaboration on projects that will advance the work of municipalities in a myriad of ways.”
By creating opportunities for dialogue and shared learning, Dalhousie is aiming to help support the people and organizations that contribute to the vitality of communities throughout the province.
Connecting with communities in Digby
More than 80 participants also joined Dalhousie’s Nova Scotia Engagement Days in Digby last Friday (Oct. 23) for discussions about economic prosperity and community wellbeing.
Conversations highlighted the region’s strong sense of community, rich cultural heritage, entrepreneurial spirit and local talent. Participants also identified workforce shortages, housing, transportation, volunteer capacity and access to services as key challenges facing Digby and the surrounding region.
There was a clear emphasis on the importance of stronger collaboration, better communication, local business development and youth engagement. Participants pointed to community-led solutions as essential to supporting sustainable growth and building a thriving future for Digby and neighbouring communities.
“The session offered valuable connections for local businesses and community members, with a strong turnout and active participation. The Dal team’s well-structured facilitation encouraged open discussion and allowed everyone to be heard and contribute their ideas,” says Charles Batstone, an employer engagement specialist with Nova Scotia Works. “I look forward to seeing what develops and building an ongoing relationship with Dalhousie, offering support here in Digby through my role with Nova Scotia Works.”
Celebrating local business leadership
Dalhousie’s engagement with Nova Scotia’s business community also continued at the Shelburne and Barrington Chamber of Commerce Business Awards, where Dr. Simon Berge, associate professor and chair of the Department of Leadership & Organizations in Dalhousie’s Faculty of Management, was keynote speaker. Dr. Berge’s remarks followed the theme of “What Makes Businesses Thrive in Small Communities”.
Together, these activities reflect Dalhousie’s growing commitment to working alongside communities and small businesses across Nova Scotia. Through knowledge-sharing, relationship-building and meaningful local engagement, the university is helping create connections that support resilient businesses, strong communities and sustainable regional growth.