WEC-Tech Program — It's Catching On!
The number of enquiries we've received regarding the WEC-Tech Program affirms our belief that the entrepreneurial characteristic of continuous improvement is well represented within Manitoba's women-owned business community. One of the most frequently posed questions about the program is:
"I'm very interested, what is the process I can expect?"
To which we reply...
The first stage of the process is an Information Session. The goal of this two-way information exchange is to determine not only whether the Program has the potential to benefit the business, but that the business has the internal capacity and resources required to capitalize on technology solutions. Following the Information Session, should both WEC and the prospective participant determine it would be beneficial to move forward, the participant is formally accepted into the program.
The next step is the Business Discovery Meeting where we gather information on the business' mission and high level strategic goals. To aid in the process, we ask the business owner to provide background information such as financial statements, marketing material, policy and procedures manuals, or strategic plans, prior to the meeting. Once the high level of understanding is in place, we delve further in to the business processes and operations by carrying out in-depth assessments. In some cases, process mapping is undertaken to determine where technology improvements, enhancements and/or adoption may further support the overall mission, goals, and current technological realities of the business.
Various options will be revealed in the discovery phase. It is then up to the business owner, with assistance from technology experts and WEC advisors, to assess the opportunities and decide on the direction.
Up to this point, there is no charge for the consulting work being done as that is subsidized entirely by the Centre. Not until (and unless) external technological consulting is required by the client are there any fees involved. At that point, the WEC-Tech program will subsidize 90% of agreed upon and approved specialized consulting services.
The length of time each of the stages requires depends on the ability of the entrepreneur to commit resources for meetings and assembling the background information, then carefully evaluating the options.
If you would like to learn more about WEC-Tech, call Angela Hilland, WEC Tech Program Manager at (204) 988-1862.
Watch for additional program information in future newsletters.
WEC-Tech Program Application
To apply to participate in the WEC-Tech Program, please fill out the WEC-Tech Application Form. Please note that this form only requires Internet access; you do not need any specific software at your end
To submit the application via e-mail or in person, please fill out and download this WEC-Tech Application form.
In the meantime, if you have any questions or you are unable to access and complete the form, please contact the Centre at 988-1860 or wecinfo@wecm.ca.
This program is generously sponsored by:
Maria Grande LLB
