Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Tony Craig, Founder and President of CTS & Associates, located in Thornhill, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
CTS & Associates. Since 1988 we have been generating refunds for businesses across Canada on a contingent basis. No refund, no fee! Our areas of specialty encompass peripheral Tax credit areas not always addressed by either internal accounting staff or outside accounting firms. We identify Refund/Credit areas that generally “fall through the cracks.” We provide a cost-free analysis, and the client pays our fee only if/when they receive their refund or credit. We have been particularly successful in the areas of Apprentice tax credits, Co-op tax credits, and EI for family members. Our work can be done remotely.
Tell us about yourself
I started CTS in 1988. Prior to that, I was an auditor with CRA (formerly Revenue Canada). I left to begin my business as I thought that it would be more fun finding money for businesses rather than assessing them. And I was right. We enjoy bringing unexpected refunds to clients, especially in these trying economic times.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Finding significant refunds for numerous companies in situations where initially we were met with skepticism, i.e., “I didn’t know you could claim that!”
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Being organized and having to continually be aware of new changes and opportunities that may present themselves. One has to always be able to address surprise challenges while at the same time managing the daily demands of your business.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Make sure you like what you will be doing and that you have the necessary skills.
- Make sure you are self-reliant and, if possible, have the support of your significant other/support system.
- Make sure you have the funds and possibly other sources of income to provide support to hedge against the ebbs and flows of incoming business funds.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Follow your dream. You only have one life to live. This is not a dress rehearsal. You might as well spend it doing what you like.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.ctsassociates.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CTS-Associates-343148202447091/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ctsassociatesca
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-craig-104b4436/
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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