Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Sharron Batsch, Partner at Batsch Group Inc., located in Edmonton, AB, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We provide donor management software to the nonprofit community. We have been doing this since 1994.
Tell us about yourself
I have always been an entrepreneur and took this attitude to all my activities. I was teaching computer languages at SAIT in Calgary when we moved to Winnipeg. It was an opportunity to start my own business developing microcomputer solutions. The University of Manitoba asked me if I would work with them to manage their Microcomputer Centre used to provide courses to the business community. Originally, I declined, but we came to an agreement that would not impact my own business activities. I took three courses and worked them into 146 offered annually, including breakfast series for senior managers. During that time, I recognized a need to manage the information users were creating with computers.
I came up with the Knowledge Management System (KMS)... 15-second retrieval of any document or file. It was during this time that @EASE, our software, was designed. We incorporate the KMS into @EASE to help our clients use their time more effectively. I have chaired many committees and events, including a Horticultural conference. My husband and I are gardeners and have won awards for home sanctuary. I work with a small team, and we continue to offer @EASE and Donate Now for online giving. During the time we were starting with @EASE, I sold and delivered the IBT PEP program in western Canada. IBT is out of Boca Raton, FL.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I think the development of the KMS. We received recognition for our work from the Consulting Engineers of Canada for a project in Alberta and an award from the Consulting Engineers of Alberta. This tool saves time, and time is precious. I wrote a book, which was published in 2013, which addressed Donor Management and how charities could design a KMS. It has received great reviews which are on our website.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Keeping positive and understanding that if you want something done, do it yourself. Do not expect others to be your advocates.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Do what you want to do.
- Think in terms of How and not Can't.
- Associate with positive individuals who share their good vibes.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.raisefundswithease.guru/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AtEaseFundraisingSoftware
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharron-batsch/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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