Consultant Advisory Services
Eligible Participants can access the CAS Initiative for any of the following activities:
1. Diagnostic assessments
To conduct a thorough review of all aspects of an existing operation in order to provide an objective assessment of its current performance, key issues, and future prospects.
2. Business Management Development Practices
To undertake a comprehensive review of the management skills of an existing organization in order to provide an objective assessment of its current status and identify opportunities to enhance operations/management performance. This will ensure that the organization maximizes its growth potential and job creation over the long term.
Consulting services for the review, development and implementation of Board Governance policies and procedures, legal consulting for contracts, HR, etc., or any other topics deemed appropriate, can also be covered in this category.
3. Access to Capital
To source other options for capital beyond government sources of financing. A consultant with expertise in this field will assist the client with the development of a business plan and funding proposals. Not intended for new start-ups.
4. Market Readiness/Export Potential
To undertake an objective assessment of an existing organization to determine its export readiness and identify areas that require enhancement to successfully enter the export market. The analysis would be carried out following discussions with trade experts at the federal and provincial government level. This assessment should increase the organization’s chances for success.
5. Specific Studies/Business Plans Mentoring
To assist an organization with the development and initial implementation of a study or business plan. It is intended that the Consultant provide guidance and direction while the actual plan is prepared by the organization.
Projects which identify the CAS participant’s potential to increase productivity and digitization or develop and attract the workforce of the future (i.e., from under-represented communities) should be a priority.
6. Business Coaching
To provide business coaching to business owners to develop the individual’s leadership abilities, supervisory skills, and enhance the individual’s existing core leadership competencies (not limited by these topics, other areas may be added depending on the individual’s needs).
7. Business Valuation
To provide access to a Chartered Business Valuator to help value the assets of the business, as well as review the cash flows and projections. This professional valuation provides confidence to interested buyers in the validity of the listed price.
8. Diversity and Inclusion
To provide objective assessments of current strengths and identify opportunities for building and enhancing diverse and inclusive communities. Assessments which help the CAS participant identify opportunities in under-represented communities can be considered.
9. Climate Change
To provide advice related to assessing, strategizing, implementing, or evaluating sustainable practices within a business context to mitigate climate change impacts and promote environmentally friendly operations.
This may include conducting carbon footprint assessments, Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) strategies, developing renewable energy strategies, implementing energy efficiency measures, energy audits, analyzing supply chain sustainability, creating waste reduction plans, assessing water usage efficiency, and advising on green product development.
10. Aftercare/Mentoring and Follow-Up
To provide mentoring or coaching assistance and advice to an organization that has proceeded with the implementation of advice/strategies developed in any of the above-described CAS products. A second CAS application requires approval from the NS Association of CBDCs.
Have questions? Reach out to our CAS Coordinator.
Andrea Hamm: andrea.hamm@cbdc.ca
