Community Futures Howe Sound Partnership Spotlight: Chamber Collaboratories

Kevani Kestel (The Business Creatrix) and Kieran Hale at a Whistler Chamber Collaboratory session.

The entrepreneurial spirit in the Sea to Sky is truly thriving, with many people running side gigs, creating their own businesses, and working for themselves. One place you’ll find them is at coworking spaces, where these solopreneurs gather together to work, network, and simply enjoy a change of scenery.  

One local initiative to support these workers has been the Chamber Collaboratory series, hosted by both the Pemberton and Whistler Chambers of Commerce. Of course, Community Futures Howe Sound has been quick to get on board.  

What are Chamber Collaboratories?  

The Chamber Collaboratories are a series of coworking days. Held in the Chamber of Commerce boardroom in Whistler and Out of the House Coworking in Pemberton, they invite people who normally work from home to book a desk and join in for the day.  

But these collaboratories offer more than just a coworking space, they also include business advice, and even an included lunch!  

Community Futures Howe Sound is present at each one. Either Cam or Kieran attends to meet with local business owners to discuss their business plans and offer free, no strings attached business advice. As this service is available at any time to entrepreneurs, it has been a great way to connect with new businesses and help them in any way we can.  

Also in attendance is Kevani Kestrel, also known as The Business Creatrix. This seasoned marketing expert and qualified business coach is on hand for personal 40-minute sessions during the Collaboratories, where she helps entrepreneurs plan business moves and navigate challenges.  

The Pemberton Chamber Collaboratory, held at Out of the House Coworking in Pemberton.

Why Community Futures Howe Sound is proud to be a partner 

As a government funded non-profit whose sole goal is to support local businesses and would-be entrepreneurs, the Chamber Collaboratories offer us the perfect outlet to put our time and money where our mouth is. 

We both sponsor these events to provide food and snacks to attendees, and offer our time by being on site for personalized business advice whenever it's needed.  

But keep in mind, you don’t have to attend a Chamber Collaboratory to access free business advice from Community Futures Howe Sound. Simply make a booking to speak with one of our local, friendly experts to get started!