Ryan Oneil Knight

Calling all charities and non-profits!Here at JIRAH Growth Partners, we are committed to helping organizations thrive and make a lasting difference in their communities. We specialize in driving impactful growth for charities and non-profits. Our tailored services include: *Major Donor Strategies – Cultivating relationships for sustained support.  *Growth Development Strategies - Structuring plans for scalable impact.  *Team Alignment – Uniting efforts towards common goals.  *Policy & Process Development – Streamlining operations for efficiency. *Fundraising Revenue Growth Planning – Maximizing financial sustainability. Let's collaborate to amplify your mission and achieve meaningful growth together. Reach out today to explore how we can support your organization's journey! #CharityGrowth #NonProfitConsulting #ImpactfulInitiatives #TeamAlignment #FundraisingStrategy

4

Why does it seem municipal innovation centers are failing and closing at an alarming rate? Innovation hubs at the local level can encounter a variety of obstacles that may result in their downfall. Here are some typical reasons: -Poor programming: Insufficient "Entrepreneurship Education " programming to help individuals start or grow an early-stage startup. - Lack of Defined Goals: Without clear objectives, these centers may struggle to gauge their success and have a meaningful impact. - Insufficient Financial Support: Continuous funding is essential. A shortage of resources can impede day-to-day activities and hinder expansion. - Poor Community Engagement: Neglecting to involve the local community, businesses, and stakeholders can lead to a lack of backing and relevance. - Resistance to Change: Resistance from within the bureaucracy and a risk-averse culture can inhibit innovation initiatives. - Ineffective Leadership: Poor management and leadership can result in a lack of direction and inefficiencies. - Failure to Learn from Mistakes: Not embracing a culture of learning from errors and making changes based on feedback can hinder progress and adaptation. - Challenges Related to Location: Issues with physical location and infrastructure can restrict the effectiveness and accessibility of these centers. - Technology Mismatch: Implementing technology that does not align with community needs or center objectives can result in wasted resources. - Lack of Collaboration: Innovation thrives on partnerships. Insufficient collaboration with the private sector, academia, and other government bodies can limit potential. - Inadequate Evaluation of Impact: Without proper metrics to assess impact, it becomes difficult to justify the existence and funding of these centers. It is crucial for innovation centers to actively address these challenges and continuously evolve to effectively serve their communities.

1

How do we bridge a growing divide? There are actions we can all take to move us back in the right direction but will take everyone, especially elected representatives, to commit to being better and leading by example. Read more in my latest blog. #Edmonton #Alberta #Canada #politics #leadership

13

1 Comment

🚀 **Empowering Black Entrepreneurs in Canada: The Journey Continues** 🌟 In the aftermath of George Floyd's tragic death, major Canadian banks acknowledged the urgent need for more accessible funding for Black entrepreneurs. However, three years later, we find that transparency and progress remain a challenge. While some banks, such as CIBC and RBC, have stepped up with significant commitments to support Black-led businesses, many institutions are still hesitant to share critical data on their loan programs aimed at dismantling the barriers faced by the Black community. Jackee Kasandy, CEO of the Black Entrepreneurs and Businesses of Canada Society, highlighted the ongoing struggles: “Funding remains a challenge. Despite some progress, the banking and funding systems still move slowly in offering truly equitable opportunities.” This ongoing conversation is vital not just for addressing past injustices, but for fostering a diverse and thriving economic landscape. We must continue to press for accountability, transparency, and action. Let's work together to elevate voices and ensure every entrepreneur has the opportunity to succeed! 💪🏽💡 #BlackEntrepreneurs #Equity #BusinessSupport #FinancialInclusion #Canada #Entrepreneurship

1

1 Comment

With the growing movement of Indigenous economic resurgence and the ongoing process of the implementation of UNDRIP- the Indigenous Economic Self-Determination stream at Indigenomics NOW focuses on building the space and/ structures for the modern expression of the right to an economy and economic self- determination. Join us November 14 for Indigenomics NOW, a unique virtual space for global Indigenous economic knowledge development and mobilization while creating the opportunity and space for leadership and connection. Have you secured your membership? Registration available here! https://lnkd.in/gJskduZ9 #Indigenomics #Indigenouseconomy #Globaleconomics #Globalleaders #Economists

10

Provincial Property Taxes (Officially known as Grants in Lieu of Property Taxes) I’ve been getting a lot of calls/emails from people asking about the provincial government not paying their property taxes and how they can take action. Mayor Amarjeet Sohi has put together a site (link below) that you can visit to learn more about how Edmonton is not being fairly compensated. There is also a tool you can you to send a letter to Premier Smith and Municipal Affairs Minister Ric McIver. On Friday, Council unanimously passed a motion to make it clear that if the provincial government pays the over $80 million that we haven’t received since 2019/2020, and reinstates that funding on an ongoing basis, that we will use every penny of that to help reduce any property tax increase in 2025. This would allow us to reduce any possible increase by approximately 2% in 2025 which is critical at a time where so many people are struggling to cover their bills. This is an issue being faced by every municipality in Alberta but Edmonton is disproportionately affected because we are the provincial capital and have the largest amount of provincial buildings in Alberta. Municipalities across Alberta are advocating to see that funding reinstated. That includes over 95% of members at the recent Alberta Municipalities | Strength in Members Convention approving a resolution asking for the provincial government to pay its fair share. Please take a minute to visit the website below and add your voice to the advocacy. #yeg #yegcc #Edmonton

69

17 Comments

it's tomorrow! Join me, Prince Khan, MEDI, CITP®-FIBP® and several others in what promises to be a highly insightful session with networking opportunities. #Entrepreneurship #economicdevelopment

2

At GenWell, we most often speak to the individual health benefits of building healthier social connection habits, as it is easy to understand, and each of us can experience the benefit directly. More recently, I have been having conversations with municipal leaders, political leaders, concerned citizens, and business leaders who are concerned about our society's collective well-being. The topic: democracy. At the heart of democracy lies the fundamental principle of unity, of coming together as a collective force to shape the future we envision. Yet, in today's fast-paced and distracted world, this essence of togetherness often gets lost amidst the noise and busyness. Human connection isn't just a nicety; it's the bedrock upon which our democracy stands. If we desire change, if we yearn for progress, we must embark on this journey shoulder to shoulder, hand in hand. If we take our democracy and our human connections for granted, we give rise to individual interests. It's no secret that our democracy is facing challenges. From the erosion of trust to the proliferation of misinformation, the very fabric of our society is being tested. But amidst these trials, there's a beacon of hope: our ability to forge genuine connections with those around us. When we take the time to know our neighbors, talk to strangers, connect with friends and family and build relationships with colleagues and classmates, we begin to understand their hopes and fears, we strengthen the bonds that hold our society together. And in doing so, we fortify the very pillars of our democracy. Yes, the road ahead may seem daunting, but let's not forget the immense power we wield when we stand united. Let's reclaim our democracy, not as a fractured collection of individuals, but as a formidable force for positive change. Now is the time to come together, to bridge the gaps that divide us, and to reaffirm our commitment to the principles that define us. In our unity lies the promise of a brighter tomorrow. Join the movement. wwwGenWell.ca #HumanConnection #Democracy #Unity #Inthistogether #GenWell Scott Aitchison Scot Patriquin Steve Joordens Kiffer Card Stuart Robertson Stewart McDonough Ontario's Big City Mayors (OBCM) Ontario BIA Association Federation of Canadian Municipalities Canadian Association of Municipal Administrators (CAMA) Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) CivicInfo BC AMCTO Alberta Municipalities | Strength in Members Rural Municipalities of Alberta Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM) Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador Government of Northwest Territories Federation of Prince Edward Island Municipalities Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities Association of Yukon Communities Justin Trudeau Mark Holland, CPA, CA Ryan Turnbull Gord Johns Paul Estey Christopher Shulgan

39

3 Comments

Driving Economic Growth through Indigenous Entrepreneurship. By fostering Indigenous Entrepreneurship, we strengthen our economies, promote financial independence, and build resilient communities. Together, we create lasting economic impact and opportunities for future generations. #IndigenousProsperity

13

Driving Economic Growth through Indigenous Entrepreneurship. By fostering Indigenous Entrepreneurship, we strengthen our economies, promote financial independence, and build resilient communities. Together, we create lasting economic impact and opportunities for future generations. #IndigenousProsperity

28

Tiffany Callender - Co-Founder and CEO of The Federation of African Canadian Economics (FACE Coalition). In the ever-changing landscape of modern business, I believe the future of Black entrepreneurship is at the forefront of innovation, resilience and transformative growth. In recent years, there has been a shift toward more inclusivity and diversity, creating incredible opportunities for Black entrepreneurs. Here's what I've learned about emerging trends and opportunities that can help support further success for Black entrepreneurs in the years ahead. 1. Embracing Technological Advancements As the world becomes more interconnected, embracing digital platforms, ecommerce and fintech solutions is becoming not just a trend but a necessity. 2. Amplifying Social Impact I believe that Black entrepreneurship is set to become a powerful force for positive social change. I recommend seizing this opportunity to create ventures that generate economic value and contribute to society's betterment by embedding sustainability considerations into all aspects of your business operations, from procurement and supply chain management to product design and packaging. Partner with suppliers and vendors who are committed to ethical and responsible business practices, including labor standards, environmental regulations and human rights principles. 3. Fostering Collaboration And Networking Other important elements for the future of Black entrepreneurship are collaboration and networking. I have found that building solid alliances within and beyond the community can help significantly with accessing resources, mentorship and business opportunities. In an era where partnerships drive innovation, Black entrepreneurs are establishing networks that go beyond traditional boundaries. Collaborative ecosystems are emerging, facilitating knowledge exchange and creating a supportive environment for the growth of Black-owned businesses. The government of Canada, in partnership with leaders of Black-led organizations, has established the Black Entrepreneurship Program to bolster the entrepreneurship ecosystem for Black entrepreneurs by giving enhanced access to networks and resources. 4. Dismantling Barriers And Promoting Inclusivity As leaders, we should create environments that foster inclusivity and break down barriers that historically obstruct access to capital and opportunities. Creating inclusive environments and promoting diversity and equity require deliberate effort and ongoing commitment. A good starting point is to educate yourself and your team about the unique challenges Black entrepreneurs face and the broader issues of systemic racism and inequality. Another strategy is to ensure that your leadership team and decision-making bodies reflect diversity and inclusion. These steps can help create a level playing field where talent and innovation thrive regardless of background, race or color.

4

"Entrepreneurs are the backbone of our economy—and when we invest in women, Indigenous, and Black entrepreneurs, we’re building a more inclusive, resilient future." – Isabelle Hudon, CEO, BDC Did you know that access to capital remains one of the biggest barriers for BIPOC women entrepreneurs in Canada? The Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) is leading the way in addressing this challenge. Through its Thrive platform and targeted investment initiatives, BDC is putting millions into the hands of underrepresented business owners, helping them scale their businesses and create lasting impact. Supporting diverse entrepreneurs isn’t just good business; it’s essential for building a sustainable, equitable economy. Discover how BDC is empowering women, Indigenous, and Black entrepreneurs to thrive—and what their work means for the B Corp community. Read the full article on B the Change 👇🏾 https://lnkd.in/dniPUUZA #BtheChange #BIPOCEntrepreneurs #InclusiveEconomy #BCorps

9

Supporting Indigenous businesses is crucial for creating economic resilience within Indigenous communities. By purchasing from and promoting these enterprises, we help foster sustainable economic growth, job creation, and self-sufficiency. Indigenous businesses often incorporate traditional knowledge and practices, contributing to cultural preservation and environmental stewardship. Additionally, empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs can lead to more diverse and inclusive markets, benefiting the broader economy. Through collaboration, education, and access to resources, we can ensure that Indigenous businesses thrive, ultimately strengthening the economic fabric of their communities and neighbor communities. Would you like more information on specific ways to support Indigenous businesses? www.upthehillatloakin.com #creatinganinclusiveworld #theresroomthetopforallofus #economy #resilience #prosperity #buying #supportIndigenousbusiness #loakinbotanicals #loakinherbs #loakingifts #sacredindigenousherbs&wellness

4

1 Comment

📊 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗮'𝘀 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯 𝗖𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗡𝗼𝗻𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗳𝗶𝘁 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗵𝗺𝗮𝗿𝗸 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 📊 Cresa's latest report reveals key insights into the nonprofit workplace as organizations continue to navigate the challenges of today's economic landscape. Discover how nonprofits are adapting to remote and hybrid work models, and the strategic decisions leaders are making for the future. 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀: ◾ Approximately 32.1% of nonprofit employees are working remotely, a rate higher than many other sectors. ◾ 65.5% of nonprofits have reduced office space since March 2020 in response to changing work dynamics. ◾ Concerns about inflation are growing, with 69.4% of respondents feeling the impact on their operations. 📝 To explore the full report and gain deeper understanding of these trends, head here: https://bit.ly/4bthNYJ #NonprofitTrends #RemoteWork #EconomicImpact #NonprofitSector

3

As a senior leader in the not for profit sector in Canada, it was a great opportunity to participate in the Action for Healthy Communities 3rd annual building inclusive communities forum. The key note speaker, Dr. Jonathan Massimi reiterated the importance of building stronger communities through the conduct of community assets mapping. Critical questions regarding the conduct of feasibility studies and community needs assessments were raised. The reminder to all development experts remains the enhancement and strengthening local resources. The conversation was so vital as a reminder that even when external resources are being brought in, it should always be to compliment, supplement and strengthen existing assets and knowledge bases. That was the original framework from which a rights based development lens was introduced. This approach needs to be reprioritized to ensure we are rebuilding sustainability elements into community work. See below article for summary of the forum. https://lnkd.in/g5S-dqGp

2

Although this report reveals disheartening results, the ugly reality is that these findings are not unique to the federal government. Anti-⚫️ racism: ABR is deeply entrenched across all levels of government—municipal, provincial, and federal—manifesting at micro, mezzo, and macro levels. Should we really be surprised that anti-⚫️ racism is pervasive in a country that enslaved people of African descent for over 200 years, yet conveniently erases this history from its curricula? Many early members of Parliament were, in fact, enslavers. Until we confront this legacy honestly, systemic anti-⚫️ racism will remain woven into the fabric of our institutions. To address these systemic issues, at Wellness Empowered Counselling & Consulting Inc, we offer equity responsive and intercultural safety consultancy and workplace psychological safety and health services. Together, we can create strategies that foster cultural humility, relational accountability, and equitable systemic change in workplaces and communities. Let’s work toward a more just and equitable, united and collective liberation focussed future. People of African descent who are racialized as Black cannot end anti- Black racism alone, they can only learn survival skills, self - regulation skills, and combat lateral violence and racial trauma but all of that are bandaids to the bigger elephant in the rooom that requires sustenic solutions. It takes a village to dismantle ABR: and that village is you and me- #bethevillage

22

3 Comments

📢 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭! Recorded: Will you be joining Sharif Mahdy, CEO, The Students Commission of Canada and I today for 𝘓𝘢𝘶𝘯𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘊𝘰𝘳𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘗𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘱 𝘞𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢 𝘕𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘌𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘵? 𝐈𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐞𝐝𝐈𝐧 𝐋𝐢𝐯𝐞, 𝐰𝐞 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐠𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐮𝐬𝐬: 1. Why it seemed like a great opportunity for SCC and could be for your organization. 2. How it supported building a corporate partnership program. 3. What were some lessons learned when reaching out to companies. 4. What are some of the opportunities they identified for the future. 👋 Feel free to let us know what questions. Add them to the chat before, during or after the event. 🔗 𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞: https://lnkd.in/eJaKBZAK for the recording #LinkedInEvents #NationalEvents #CorporatePartnerships #CorporatePartnershipPrograms

25

5 Comments