Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Venture Capital with Lise Birikundavyi

Episode 63 of The Business Development Podcast with host Kelly Kennedy focused on answering community questions related to business development. Throughout the episode, Kelly emphasized the importance of building interest in products or services, and how this process remains essentially the same regardless of the industry or business type. He discussed the need to demonstrate the value of a product or service to potential customers, encourage them to try it, and then ask for their business. Kelly also highlighted the significance of having a CRM with a robust reporting feature to track customer information and analyze data for future sales efforts. Additionally, he mentioned the use of AI in creating social media posts and expressed gratitude for the show's growing audience.In summary, episode 63 of The Business Development Podcast addressed common questions surrounding business development. Kelly provided insights on building interest, securing sales for products and services, leveraging CRM analytics, and using AI in social media marketing. The episode displayed Kelly's passion for helping businesses achieve their growth goals and highlighted the show's rapid growth and popularity.Key Takeaways:Business development involves building interest and creating compelling reasons for customers to try a product or service.Building interest requires consistency and effective communication.Business development is applicable to both products and services, with the main difference being the way interest is built.Providing opportunities for potential customers to test and experience the product or service can lead to successful sales.Having a CRM with a reporting feature is crucial for tracking customer information and analyzing business development efforts.Continuous learning and adaptation are essential in the field of business development.

13 Sep 202336min

In Episode 62 of The Business Development Podcast, host Kelly Kennedy welcomes guest Micah Slavens, a web pioneer with over two decades of experience in the digital realm. Kelly expresses his excitement about having Micah on the show and their shared passion for design, user experience, and the customer journey. They discuss the evolving landscape of web design and technology, emphasizing the importance of a well-designed website and a strong online presence for businesses. Micah's expertise in blending creativity and technical finesse has shaped the digital future of businesses across various sectors. Throughout the episode, Kelly and Micah explore topics such as AI, the evolution of the internet, and the significance of marketing material in today's competitive market.In summary, Episode 62 of The Business Development Podcast delves into the transformative journey of Micah Slavens, a renowned web designer and founder of Lift Interactive. Kelly Kennedy leads an engaging conversation with Micah, highlighting the crucial role of web design in elevating brands and shaping the future of businesses. Listeners gain valuable insights on navigating the digital landscape, adapting to change, and connecting with audiences in the modern era. By discussing key aspects such as AI, customer experience, and the power of a well-designed website, Kelly and Micah provide actionable advice and inspire listeners to embrace the ever-evolving world of business development.Key Takeaways: A well-designed website is one of the most important investments for any business.The quality and design of a website can elevate a brand and shape the digital future of businesses.Connecting with the audience is key in website design, rather than just providing mundane information.The evolution of the internet has dramatically changed the landscape of web design.Online legitimacy is crucial, and a truthful representation of a company is important in web design.The use of AI in web design is already prevalent, and it will continue to shape the future of the industry.The image and online presence of a company are vital for business development and attracting interest.Constant adaptation and staying current with industry changes are necessary in web design.User experience and understanding customer journey play a significant role in web design.The importance of marketing materials and branding in web design cannot be disregarded.

10 Sep 20231h 1min

Episode 61 of The Business Development Podcast with Kelly Kennedy focuses on the difference between business development for products and services. Kennedy emphasizes the importance of building relationships with the right contacts within a company, such as the director, operations manager, or president, who will be buying the product or service on a regular basis. He advises against relying solely on the supply chain and encourages reaching out directly to potential customers to introduce the company and its offerings. Kennedy also emphasizes the need to build trust in oneself and the product or service being sold, as well as the importance of creating interest and rapport with customers. Additionally, he announces that the podcast will soon be available on YouTube and expresses gratitude for the listeners and their support.Overall, this episode aims to provide insight and advice on the business development process for both products and services, emphasizing the need for proactive outreach, relationship-building, and establishing trust with potential customers. Kennedy encourages businesses to identify the industries that may benefit from their product or service, create target lists, and connect with key decision-makers within those industries. He highlights the significance of customer trust and the value of trying the product or service to understand its worth. The episode also announces the expansion of the podcast to YouTube and expresses appreciation for the audience's support.Key Takeaways:It is important to build relationships with decision-makers, such as directors, operations managers, and presidents, who will be buying your product or service on a regular basis.Business development is about creating trust in yourself and your product or service. Building rapport and trust with potential customers is crucial.It is essential to identify the industries that will need your product or service and reach out to the people directly responsible for buying it in those industries.Don't solely rely on supply chain connections, as they are often the last to know about a company's needs or problems.Generating interest in your product or service and getting customers to try it is crucial in business development.Building trust and credibility takes time, and it is important to continually provide value to customers.Creating a target list and identifying the right contacts at companies is necessary for successful business development.Don't limit yourself to one industry; explore a wide range of industries that may need your product or service.Business development involves being a detective and doing the necessary research to find potential customers and decision-makers.

6 Sep 202334min

Episode 60 of the Business Development Podcast features Amin Samji, a leader in the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce. Host Kelly Kennedy is excited to have Amin on the show as they discuss the importance of networking and building beneficial partnerships in the business community. Amin's passion for the prosperity of the community shines through as he shares his extensive business experience and insights.Throughout the episode, Kelly and Amin discuss the challenges and joys of starting one's own business and the importance of constantly learning and growing in the field of business development. They emphasize the value of networking and building connections, particularly through organizations like the Chamber of Commerce. Amin highlights the work that the Chamber does in bringing the business community together and facilitating mutually beneficial partnerships. Overall, the episode offers actionable advice on growing a business and highlights the importance of fostering enduring relationships in the business world.In summary, Episode 60 with Amin Samji explores the significance of networking and building partnerships in the business community. Amin's extensive business experience and role in the Chamber of Commerce make him a valuable guest on the show. The episode emphasizes the importance of constantly learning and growing in business development, and highlights the value of organizations like the Chamber in facilitating connections and partnerships. Listeners are provided with actionable advice on growing their businesses and fostering enduring relationships in the business world.Key Takeaways: Joining the Chamber of Commerce is beneficial for businesses, as it provided resources, connections, and support.Starting a business requires a lot of dedication and hard work, but it can be a fulfilling journey.Building relationships and networking are crucial elements in business development.Learning from mistakes and taking advice from others is important for growth and success.The Edmonton business community is thriving, and there are opportunities for businesses to succeed and grow in the area.

3 Sep 20231h 3min

In episode 59 of The Business Development Podcast with Kelly Kennedy, the focus is on the importance of market research and effective marketing for startups. Kelly emphasizes the need for startups to ensure that their product or service has a commercial application and will financially make sense before investing too heavily in its development. He acknowledges that startups often have limited budgets and may not be able to afford a business development expert, so he provides advice on how to effectively market a new tech startup or invention on a tight budget. Kelly also highlights the importance of creating visually appealing and user-friendly websites, as well as building a compelling case for the product or service to attract customers.Additionally, Kelly expresses his excitement for the progress of the show and the positive feedback he has received from startup founders who have found value in the podcast. He emphasizes the need for startups to consider the market demand and competition for their product or service, and to make sure it solves a problem that customers have. Kelly also mentions the resources and accelerator programs available to tech founders in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, and encourages startups to seek help and collaborate with others in the industry. Overall, the episode aims to provide actionable advice and insights on business development and marketing strategies for startups.Key Takeaways:It is important for startups to consider the commercial application and financial viability of their product or service.Startups should focus not only on developing their product or service, but also on marketing it effectively.Limited budgets may require startups to handle their own business development and marketing.Startups should consider the market demand and ensure that there is a need for their product or service.Market research is crucial to understand the potential market for a startup's product or service.Startups should aim to create visually appealing and easy-to-understand websites to attract customers.Building value and solving a problem for customers are essential for a startup's success.Networking and collaboration with other tech companies can be beneficial for startups.Startups should aim to make their own money quickly and efficiently to sustain their growth.

30 Aug 202338min

In Episode 58 of The Business Development Podcast, host Kelly Kennedy interviews Cole Rosentreter, the founder and CEO of Pegasus, a technology company based in UAV aerospace. Cole shares his journey from his military career to founding and leading a successful technology company. He talks about his love for aviation, his experiences in the military, and the critical decision-making skills he developed. Cole also emphasizes the importance of gaining experience and proving oneself in the business world. Pegasus has achieved remarkable success, with partnerships and clients including notable entities such as the Government of Alberta, Boeing, Thales, and Canadian Pacific Railway. They have also received prestigious awards, such as the Prince's Trust Global Sustainability Award.Overall, this episode highlights the story of Cole Rosentreter, a veteran turned entrepreneur, and his path to success with Pegasus. It provides insights into the challenges and rewards of starting a technology company and the value of gaining experience in the business world. Listeners can gain inspiration and learn from Cole's entrepreneurial journey.Key Takeaways:Sometimes important decisions are made without even realizing it.Don't rush into university or a degree if you're unsure about what you want to do.Some decisions in life may be unclear or forgotten, but they can still shape your future.The experience of serving in the military can provide valuable skills and opportunities.Building relationships and adding value in business should be prioritized over short-term gains.Technology and innovation can have a significant impact in various industries, including aerospace.The military experience can shape an individual's perspective and drive them to pursue meaningful work.Success is not guaranteed or permanent, and it requires ongoing effort and adaptability.

27 Aug 20231h 25min

Episode 57 of the Business Development Podcast explores the effectiveness of exhibiting at conferences as a marketing strategy. The host, Kelly Kennedy, emphasizes that attending conferences and setting up booths is not an active marketing approach and may not yield significant returns on investment. He highlights that most attendees are not potential customers and are primarily interested in grabbing free promotional items. While conferences can create brand recognition, their passive nature does not guarantee sales or business growth. Kennedy suggests that businesses should carefully consider their reasons for attending conferences and explore alternative strategies for effective business development.In this episode, the host delves into the topic of business development at conferences, emphasizing the passive nature of exhibiting and the limited conversion rate of attendees to actual customers. Kennedy advises businesses to critically evaluate the purpose and expected outcomes of attending conferences, as they primarily serve to create brand recognition rather than generate immediate sales. He encourages listeners to consider other active marketing strategies that may yield better returns on investment. Through sharing anecdotes and personal experiences, the host challenges the common assumption that conferences are essential for business development and provides valuable insights on how to approach marketing at such events.Key Takeaways: Attending conferences for business development purposes may not necessarily lead to immediate sales or direct ROI.Exhibiting at conferences is more of a passive marketing strategy, aimed at creating brand recognition.The majority of people attending conferences may not be potential customers or have any intention of buying a product or service.Conference attendees often visit booths for free merchandise, rather than genuine interest in the company or its offerings.Instead of solely relying on conferences for business development, consider other active marketing strategies.It is important to understand the reasons behind attending conferences and set realistic expectations for ROI.Conferences can still be valuable for informing new people about a company's products or services, even if they may not directly lead to sales.Selecting conferences where a higher number of potential customers will be present can increase the chances of generating leads.It is crucial to weigh the benefits and costs of exhibiting at conferences and explore alternative marketing avenues for better returns on investment.

23 Aug 202338min

In episode 56 of The Business Development Podcast, host Kelly Kennedy addresses the importance of separating account management and business development. Kennedy recounts their personal experience of juggling multiple roles before realizing the need for separate teams. The episode highlights the significance of dedicating time to new business development, as customers can leave at any time, regardless of the quality of service provided. While account management is crucial for maintaining relationships and addressing client needs, Kennedy emphasizes the need to prioritize business development in order to grow the business. The episode concludes with practical advice on how to effectively balance these two aspects and the overall goal of the business.Overall, episode 56 of The Business Development Podcast focuses on the art of balancing business development and account management. Kelly Kennedy advocates for the separation of these two roles, sharing personal insights and experiences. The episode stresses the need to prioritize new business development as customers can leave unexpectedly. While account management plays a crucial role in maintaining client relationships, Kennedy encourages business owners to dedicate more time and resources to business development in order to foster growth. The episode aims to provide practical advice on how to effectively manage these two aspects within a business.Key Takeaways: Companies should aim to seperate account management and business development.Business development is about finding new opportunities and growing the business.Account management is about building relationships and maintaining existing clients.It is important to prioritize new business development and dedicate time to it.Customers can leave at any time for any reason, so it is important to consistently bring in new business.It is important to recognize the need for separate roles and not overload employees with multiple responsibilities.

20 Aug 202344min