After Rene Rheault’s time at Winnipeg’s Collège Louis-Riel, he followed what he calls the “traditional route” – a path many of his family members had taken toward professional success.
Rheault studied finance at university but left before completing his final year, realizing it just wasn’t the right fit. He then spent nearly eight years flipping houses as a general contractor, but the desire to be his own boss persisted. In 2016, Rheault had a “light bulb” moment when he decided to invest in A Buyer’s Choice Home Inspections franchise. Today, the entrepreneur has grown it into a successful eightperson operation.
While basic household inspections remain a central part of the business (with many referrals derived from the real estate industry), Rheault says he and his crew have branched out into other areas of expertise such as commercial and environmental inspections.
“Every time you achieve a goal… you set a new one,” Rheault says. “It’s the chase that fuels an entrepreneur. I take pride in seeing my business grow, knowing I’m helping seven other households.”
Rheault’s business is one of thousands across the country that was recognized and celebrated during October as part of Small Business Month in Canada.
According to Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, small businesses – defined as having fewer than 100 employees – account for 98 per cent of Canadian companies and employ more than 10 million people.
Loren Remillard, president and chief executive officer of the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce, says taking the leap into entrepreneurship is “not for the faint of heart.” But for those with an idea, the passion and support of friends, family and community, he says the end results can be highly rewarding.
“Not everyone can thrive in a large-scale business or government environment,” says Remillard. “And our economy can’t survive without the ‘mom and pop’ shops that help define a neighbourhood. There’s a certain amount of pride that comes with starting something from the ground up and creating employment for local people.”
The recent push towards shopping local over the last five years is further helping entrepreneurs make their mark.
“For the consumer, having the ability to support local, especially these days, has become extremely top of mind. Recognizing and celebrating the role small business plays is the least that can be done to ensure they maintain momentum,” says Remillard.
Al Dawson would agree. The founder and owner of Harrison’s Coffee Co. has two locations in Winnipeg on Waterfront Drive and at The Fork’s Johnston Terminal. He also sells java online. Named after the family’s first dog, Harrison’s has been roasting and serving coffee for more than five years and employs 15 to 20 people at any one time.
“When you go into business for yourself, there’s blood… and 98 per cent of it is your own,” says Dawson. “Make sure you love what you’re doing, as only that will give you the strength and courage to keep doing what you’re doing. Surround yourself with people who share your values and realize you can’t do it alone. Whether it’s friends listening, suppliers lending a hand, family supporting you when you’re having a bad day and people understanding when you make mistakes,” says Dawson. “This is not a solo game, so be grateful for those who stick by you.”
