Clients | Community

Real development is a process that nurtures elements already present within your community.  It is separate from the provision of incentives to corporations to relocate to your community, the creation of infrastructure that enables business to operate, and the common practice of providing training and financial resources to entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Our development model complements these conventional economic development practices by focusing on the business ideas of local people. 

Supporting local people with business ideas diversifies and strengthens your local economy. Our aim is to build your capacity as citizens to develop skills in this field.

You will learn to assist your entrepreneurs to define and refine their business ideas and to navigate obstacles that can inhibit their growth.  You will validate their strengths and help them seek out the team mates who will help them bring their idea to market. 

The seeds SEF planted have flourished beyond all expectations in Taos, it has earned street credibility and every month there is the social proof of upward of 100 attendees. We now have 4 sister programs in the region. Look forward to collaborating with our Canadian friends.
— Christopher Madrid TEN Project, Taos New Mexico
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Our team at SEF Canada grew up in small business.  With decades of work with and as entrepreneurs, we understand the value of providing a competent, confidential program for your local entrepreneurs and small business owners.

We have engaged citizens in hundreds of rural and urban communities worldwide to be in charge of their own development.  SEF becomes your partners in the process and we diligently guide your program.  The results:  the creation and expansion of local businesses with retention rates of 80%.

This is another life-changing experience and a platinum opportunity for our region. I know all of us will work very hard to make this work.
— Iris Katers, Project Management Team Member, Accelerate UP, Michigan