Networking event to help northern businesses

To help small- and medium-sized businesses succeed in an increasingly globalized world, Sudbury will host the 2015 Naturallia business-to-business matchmaking event in November.

Naturallia is based on Futurallia, a business alliance model that originated in France 20 years ago. Organizers chose the term Naturallia to reflect the event’s focus on Northern Ontario’s natural resources sector.

“You need to expand your network and find key partners,” said Alain Thivierge, Naturallia's director. “This is the new way of thriving in a globalized world.”

The Sudbury event will be the fourth for Naturallia, and is expected to feature more than 300 business leaders from 15 countries, including strong representation from Europe.

A number of economic development organizations, including FedNor and RDÉE Ontario, the economic development organization for Franco-Ontarians, have teamed up to bring the event to Sudbury.

Sudbury-based economic development organizations, including NORCAT, the Sudbury Chamber of Commerce and the Sudbury Area Mining Supply and Service Association are also expected to have a strong presence at the event.

Thivierge said the lack of good information is often the greatest barrier for small- and medium-sized enterprises when they attempt to expand their exports.

Large companies can buy databanks and hire consultants to navigate export opportunities and help build relationships, but smaller organizations often don't know where to start, he said.

Business-to-business events like Naturallia allow smaller companies to find strength and numbers, and build on relationships that can turn into new business opportunities.
The event will take place Nov. 11 to Nov. 14, 2015.

Thivierge said more information about Naturallia 2015 will become available in the coming weeks and months.