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 last fall.
Meet Susanna MacMillan and Sue’s Secondhand Styles
Susanna MacMillan and Sue’s Secondhand Styles will offer a curated selection of used and consigned clothing, available online and eventually through a physical retail space. While vintage and ‘thrift’ shopping is currently trendy, this approach is also sustainable, helping to reduce waste and the environmental impact associated with producing new clothing and products. Sue’s Secondhand Styles will provide customers with an avenue to purchase gently used, high-quality items at a fraction of the cost of new merchandise.
Interview with Susanna
- What is your favourite part about being an entrepreneur?
Sue’s Secondhand Styles is still in the development phase. I haven’t started my business yet, but my vision is to achieve independence and no longer work for others. I aspire to have the freedom to make critical business decisions and the opportunity to build the company from the ground up, guiding its direction according to my vision.
- What inspired you to start a business?
My inspiration to start a business comes from a deep passion for what interests me. I want to transform my passion and hobby into a fulfilling career, allowing me to do what I love every day.
- What services/ products do you offer?
We offer a curated selection of used and consigned clothing, available online and, in the near future, through a physical retail space.
- Who do you look up to for inspiration when it comes to either being an entrepreneur or your business?
I look up to my father for inspiration when it comes to being an entrepreneur. He owned his own business throughout his life, and both my brother and I had the opportunity to work there and learn the ropes. I managed the front end, gaining invaluable experience in customer service, billing, collections, bookkeeping and collaborating with others. Although my father has passed and is no longer with us, his legacy and the lessons he taught me continue to inspire and guide me.
- How did you come up with your business name?
I used ChatGPT to brainstorm business names by inputting my information. The AI generated several suggestions, and I chose the one that resonated with me the most.
- What is unique about your business?
The business stands out by focusing on the highly popular market of second-hand, consignment and vintage clothing. This approach is not only trendy but also sustainable, helping to reduce waste and the environmental impact associated with producing new clothing and products. It will also enable customers to buy gently used, high-quality items at a fraction of the cost of new merchandise.
- What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about yourself through your entrepreneurial journey?
The most surprising thing I’ve learned about myself through my entrepreneurial journey is the importance of resilience and the ability to pivot when plans don’t go as expected.
- What’s the best piece of advice you would give to another entrepreneur?
The best piece of advice I would give another entrepreneur is to stay adaptable and resilient. The journey of entrepreneurship is filled with unexpected challenges and opportunities. Being able to pivot your plans and learn from setbacks is crucial. Always stay focused on your vision, but be flexible in your approach. Persistence and a positive mindset can make all the difference. If you have savings or another income to rely on while launching, then I would say go for it. Follow your dreams!
- What do you hope to achieve through the Starter Company Plus program?
I aim to launch my business by mid-2025, with the support and guidance of my advisors. The classroom training has been incredibly useful, and I am hopeful to receive grant funding to assist with the launch of my new business.
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.