Organization
Vancouver Business Network
TL;DR
The business community Iman Aghay founded in 2009 as a broke new immigrant, now one of Vancouver's largest entrepreneur networks, with more than 16,000 members.
The Vancouver Business Network is a community of active and aspiring small business owners and entrepreneurs in Vancouver, British Columbia. Iman Aghay founded it in 2009, on the same day he started his first Canadian company. As a new immigrant who could not land an interview, he decided to build the community he needed. In the film he tells it plainly, instead of introducing himself as a newcomer with no work samples, he could introduce himself as the founder of the Vancouver Business Network.
The group runs inexpensive seminars and networking events on topics from marketing and sales to raising capital, and has grown to more than 16,000 members with over 850 events held. It operates as a branch of the Entrepreneurs International Network.
Why OGSP Recommends It
This is the community at the center of the film. Iman founded it the same day he started his web design company, and it is the clearest example of the film's idea that you can build your own way in instead of waiting to be chosen.
Featured In
Ways To Get Involved
Membership is open through the group's Meetup page, where upcoming seminars and networking events are listed. If you are in the Vancouver area, attending an event is the simplest way to see the community for yourself.
Key Takeaways
- It started in 2009 with no money and no members, just a decision to build a community rather than wait for a job offer.
- More than 16,000 members and 850+ events later, it is one of Vancouver's largest business communities.
- Events cover practical ground, marketing, sales, networking, raising capital, and running a small business.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Vancouver Business Network?
A Vancouver community for small business owners and entrepreneurs, built around regular, affordable seminars and networking events.
Who founded the Vancouver Business Network?
Iman Aghay, in 2009, when he was a new immigrant with almost nothing. It grew into one of Vancouver’s largest entrepreneur networks.
How big is the Vancouver Business Network?
More than 16,000 members.
What does the Vancouver Business Network offer members?
Regular, affordable seminars and networking events for people learning to build and grow a business.