Pam Cooley
Carshare HFX

No neophyte in the world of business, Pam Cooley is a highly respected speaker, facilitator, social entrepreneur and principal of the Chooseethical Ventures Inc. consultancy.  Her experience with EF exemplifies how all entrepreneurs – new and well-established – can benefit from and contribute to EF.

Late in 2008 Pam and a partner brought a new level of ‘greener convenience’ to Nova Scotia with the first multi-vehicle CarShare service in Atlantic Canada.  CarshareHFX provides self-service around the clock access to vehicles in downtown Halifax and throughout Dartmouth.  Customers pay a membership fee and for distance driven and time.

The business was growing, but not as strongly as Pam had anticipated.  She approached Entrepreneurs’ Forum at around the one year mark, seeking advice on how to market the service and increase awareness of Carshare HFX.  

Pam says, “EF was a wonderful experience.  They had assembled a collection of the best and most influential people in public relations and marketing around the table.  It was invaluable to get their perspective on what CarshareHFX was, and how to make it accessible to more Haligonians.”

Pam’s Advisory Session took the form of a meeting followed by dinner.  Prior to the evening, Pam had sent CarshareHFX marketing materials and details of her specific needs.  She says, “They knew where I was and what I was looking for, and the conversation revolved around the value proposition and the selling the concept. I implemented much of their advice, and gained ongoing allies as well as clients.”

Within a year, sales increased and CarShare Atlantic Limited was awarded  Gold New Business of the Year for 2010, by the Halifax Chamber of Commerce.  Pam has also received the Canadian Progress Club, Halifax-Cornwallis 2010 Women of Excellence Award in the category "Entrepreneur / Innovator.’.

She says, “It was a very valuable experience for me, and I’ve recommended EF to numerous others.:

Pam’s expertise was not lost on EF Nova Scotia.  Not long after her experience as a client, Pam joined EF as an Advisor and has participated in several sessions for other Nova Scotian entrepreneurs.

She says, “EF creates opportunities to network,  brainstorm, and help another person or company.  It creates a community that wants to help Halifax grow.   My background as professional facilitator for business and government agencies enables me to support new business in a practical way.  I like to give back.”