The Starter Company Plus program is funded by the government of Ontario and delivered by the Small Business Centre of Barrie, Simcoe County and Orillia. The program is designed to help entrepreneurs start, grow or buy a business. Participants receive mentorship from experienced business professionals, access to valuable training and networking opportunities, as well as the opportunity to pitch for up to $5,000 in micro-grants.
The Small Business Centre team is excited to share the companies they had the chance to work with this fall.
Meet Jinith Kithalawa Arachchi and Keystone Engineering & Design Inc.
Keystone Engineering and Design Inc. is your local destination for structural design, drafting, inspection, and reporting services. Jinith’s team prides itself on its collaborative approach, working closely with architects, designers, local building authorities, and builders to ensure successful project outcomes. Keystone Engineering and Design Inc. specializes in a broad spectrum of building projects, with a primary focus on the structural design of residential and small-scale buildings. Based in Orillia, Jinith provides structural engineering services across the province of Ontario, primarily serving GTA, Simcoe County, Muskoka District Municipality, Parry Sound District, Grey County and Dufferin County.
Building a Foundation with Keystone Engineering & Design Inc.
- What is your favourite part about being an entrepreneur?
My favorite part about being an entrepreneur is the flexibility and freedom to make day-to-day decisions, which allows me to maintain a better work-life balance. I enjoy the work itself while having the opportunity to tap into growth potential.
- What inspired you to start a business?
I’ve always wanted to run my own business. After 13 years as an employee, I couldn’t wait any longer. I wanted more financial independence and the flexibility to set my schedule. I was excited to take on the challenge of building something on my own and pursuing opportunities on my own.
- What services/ products do you offer?
I offer comprehensive structural engineering design, drafting, inspection, and reporting services. Most of the projects I work on are residential and small-scale buildings. I work closely with architects, designers, local building authorities, and builders to guarantee successful project outcomes.
- Who do you look up to for inspiration when it comes to either being an entrepreneur or your business?
I really admire my dad, an entrepreneur who has successfully ventured into a variety of industries. I’ve learned a lot from his journey, taking valuable lessons from both his successes and challenges.
- How did you come up with your business name?
I chose the name "Keystone Engineering and Design" because the keystone is the most crucial part of an arch, holding everything together. It symbolizes the importance of structural integrity, which perfectly aligns with the services I offer. Just as a keystone supports the arch, my goal is to provide the essential support and expertise needed in structural design.
- What is unique about your business?
I offer personalized service to help my clients achieve their goals, backed by excellent customer support, even after the project is complete. With over a decade of experience in the local business environment, I understand its strengths, limitations, and challenges, and can connect clients with reliable references for related services. I also bring creative yet practical structural engineering solutions to the table, ensuring each project is handled with expertise and care.
- What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about yourself through your entrepreneurial journey?
I was surprised by how much I enjoy networking and building relationships. I used to be somewhat introverted, but now I see the value in connecting with others and improving my skills in engaging with people in the industry.
- What’s the best piece of advice you would give to another entrepreneur?
Invest time in building relationships with other entrepreneurs and professionals in your industry. A strong network can provide valuable support, advice, and opportunities that can help you along your journey.
- What do you hope to achieve through the Starter Company Plus program?
I hope to enhance my skills in essential areas of business development, such as networking, marketing, advertising, branding, and bookkeeping. Additionally, I’m looking to develop a solid professional business plan. A key goal for me is to secure funding or grants to cover initial setup, operational costs, and purchasing of hardware and software allowing my business to thrive during its first year as I invest heavily in growth.
Explore Keystone Engineering & Design Inc. Today
To learn more about Jinith Kithalawa Arachchi and Keystone Engineering & Design Inc., you can reach out via email at jinith@keystoneengineering.ca or head to their website: www.keystoneengineering.ca.
Learn More About the Starter Company Plus Program
To learn more about the Starter Company Plus program, reach out to the Small Business Centre of Barrie, Simcoe County & Orillia today at smallbusiness@barrie.ca or 705-720-2445.