Society

What jobs will generative Al replace?

What to know about how this technology may affect future careers. In discussions about the rise in AI-generated content, one prevailing question looms above all other: Will this technology threaten to put me out of work? According to computer technology company IBM, generative AI is any artificial intelligence that creates new pieces of media based on user input. These pieces of artificially generated media include text, images, videos, audio recordings, or even lines of software code.  What generative AI, or gen AI for short, lacks in real creativity, it makes up for in its ability to remember massive amounts of images, videos, sounds, and writing. This period of a generative AI consuming existing media is known as “training.” Training allows generative AI programs to make new creations that are heavily inspired by everything the AI has seen before.   For instance, if someone were to tell Midjourney, an independent research lab, to create a realistic-looking picture of a horse, that AI would draw upon the countless photos of horses it has seen in the past to make a new image that should more or less resemble a horse. All generative AI programs go through training in order to give appropriate responses to user requests.  Generative AI has the frightening potential to produce high-quality media, but it has limitations in fully replacing human artists. Even so, many may wonder about the impact of generative AI, particularly on creative industries. AI journalism: can robots replace reporters?  For better or worse, AI-generated news is not something that awaits us in the near future—, it is already here. In 2023, NewsGuard reported that it found 49 websites filled with articles that seemed AI-generated. These websites were published in seven different languages: English, Chinese, Czech, French, Portuguese, Tagalog, and Thai.   Though these websites churn out dozens to hundreds of articles a day with AI, many of them promoted false narratives or even made up stories entirely on their own. Additionally, they had what NewsGuard referred to as “hallmarks of artificial intelligence,” such as bland language and repetitive phrases. Many of these websites were littered with advertisements as a way of making easy money.  For this reason, media analyst Mauricio Cabrera told Poynter that the future of newspapers and magazines will see them making less content overall to focus on quality instead. In the same article, technology leader Ben Werdmuller echoed the same concept, saying newsrooms that treat AI as a way to cut costs will drown themselves in a sea of similarly mass-produced and equally dull publications. Werdmuller also advised newsrooms against sticking to traditional search engine optimization and social media tactics for the same reason: to avoid blending in with AI-produced copies.  AI’s limitations in journalism carry over into other fields of media as well. Artists worried about competition from machines should remember to focus on quality over quantity.  AI artists: why AI art looks so real … until it doesn’t  Just like with news reporting, generative AI has started to become a reality in the art world. In March of 2024, an official Batman comic published by DC Comics was criticized for supposedly using AI-generated imagery. Lego met similar criticism over some of their recent advertisements.  In both cases, critics pointed out unusual mistakes in the artworks, like unnecessary details that a human artist would not add. For instance, in the Batman comic, there is a megaphone sticking out of a horse for no apparent reason. Likewise, the seemingly intricate trees seen in the background of a Lego ad are, on closer inspection, not only growing their branches at odd angles but also fusinge with streetlights.  AI art has come a long way, but many of its creations are filled with odd design choices. Even when users give the AI a very detailed prompt that avoids graphical glitches—or perhaps manually edit the generated photos to remove any mistakes—there are still some things AI cannot draw properly.  Hands are infamously hard for generative AI to draw properly. This is—unlike human artists—AI has no real understanding of what a hand actually is.   Because AI illustrates our appendages, such as hands, using a bunch of randomly gathered images for inspiration, it does not understand how a hand would realistically look when holding something, clenching a fist, pointing or doing any other complex action. This also applies to animal body parts. While AI can generate a hyper-realistic photo of, say, an octopus, it has no clue how many tentacles an octopus has or what exactly they would look like.  The uncanny valley is one of AI’s biggest obstacles. It’s the reason why so many AI-generated images of people look fake. The uncanny valley comes from an evolutionary response that developed as a way of avoiding contagious diseases because a seriously ill or dead person looks almost like a normal person who is “off” in some way. Humans are really good at recognizing each other based on instinctive knowledge of a person’s features. AI’s inability to accurately depict body parts like hands, teeth, and eyes falls into this uncanny valley because people are way better at recognizing these features than we realize. For artists wanting to stay in business alongside AI generators, it may be worthwhile to get good at drawing body parts that machines struggle with.  AI music: will human singers still be relevant?  Unfortunately, things don’t look so optimistic for human musicians in the wake of generative AI. Seventy-five per cent of producers believe they might eventually be replaced by AI music generators, as reported by MusicRadar. However, only 17.3 per cent of those interviewed claimed to hold a negative opinion of AI in the music industry. How audiences react to AI will make or break the success of AI music generators since they cannot thrive without public support.   In the worst-case scenario, where robots have near-perfect accuracy and become mainstream, there’s still hope that these very tools can be used to enhance human music instead of replacing it entirely. Musicians can benefit from using AI to automate

Pros and cons of working for a small business 

When imagining a small business, it is easy to just picture a startup with no resources and a team with no experience. It can feel risky joining a company like this since their success, and thus your level of job security, is not guaranteed.   However, small businesses are common and carry more merit than you might initially think. In Canada, a small business is defined as having between one and 99 paid employees. Many of these businesses might not truly be as small as expected.   According to the Government of Canada, there were 1.22 million businesses in Canada in 2022. Ninety-eight per cent of these were small businesses, most of which were concentrated in Ontario and Quebec. With such a variety of small businesses across the country, carefully consider the pros and cons of joining a small business before discounting them for being “unknown.”  PROS  Benefits  Contrary to what some might believe, small businesses do offer various benefits to their employees. In fact, Canadian small businesses are required to offer certain benefits, such as Workers Compensation Insurance (WCI), the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Employment Insurance (EI).   Small businesses are also required to provide their employees with legislated leaves. This includes statutory holidays as well as various leaves, such as vacation, sick and parental leaves.   Outside of these benefits, around 72 per cent of Canadian small businesses choose to compensate their employees with additional benefit packages.   Flexibility  Small businesses may have less traditional work environments, meaning they may be more willing to provide alternative work arrangements, such as work-from-home or hybrid work models, and flexible scheduling accommodations. Smaller businesses might be more understanding when it comes to important scheduling changes on the employee’s end, granting them peace of mind.    Growth opportunities  In a bigger company, it can be easier for your work to become lost among hundreds of other employees and various levels of management. However, in small businesses, you often have the opportunity to take on more responsibilities sooner. You are also more likely to get recognized for good performance since there are fewer levels of management. Being able to showcase your skills directly to leadership and more easily build workplace relationships might make it easier for you to work up the ranks in a shorter amount of time. To take on more responsibility, you might try out various roles within a small business, as departments are small and usually overlap. Job security  Small businesses can provide a higher level of job security than larger corporations to some degree. Larger companies with hundreds of employees may go through periods of high turnover. The possibility of being seen as dispensable is higher, especially in lower-ranking positions.   On the other hand, an individual’s role within a small business is much more vital. A small business may only have one accountant or marketing specialist, so these employees become much more crucial to the business’s success and day-to-day operations. Even lower-ranking roles are more important to a small business than to a larger corporation. CONS  Lower compensation  While many small businesses choose to offer additional benefits on top of the mandatory ones, numerous others simply do not have the resources necessary to provide employees with the same compensation as bigger corporations, suggesting a lower salary, fewer vacation and sick days, or less competitive health insurance.   More responsibilities   While experiencing other roles and overlapping departments can be a good thing, it can sometimes also become overwhelming. Having to take on more responsibilities than your job title suggests can make it harder to focus on what you were hired for in the first place.   This can also make it more difficult to specialize within a small business, as you may be required to perform various tasks outside of your original expectations.  Job security   Many small businesses struggle to maintain themselves long-term. Depending on the small business you work for, you might find yourself out of a job if the business as a whole does not succeed. This becomes more likely the smaller a business is, and this uncertainty can be difficult to deal with at times.  There are several pros and cons to working for small businesses, and some pros, like taking on more responsibility, can even be cons at the same time. Make sure to research adequately so that you are informed of the benefits and risks of being a small business employee.   

How to deal with job loss 

Losing a job can be one of the most challenging experiences in a person’s life. Whether it comes unexpectedly or after a period of uncertainty, job loss can shake your confidence and disrupt your routine. However, with resilience and the right strategies, you can navigate this difficult time and come out of it stronger. This article provides practical steps and resources to help you cope emotionally as you plan your next steps after being laid off.  Emotional resilience  Acknowledge your feelings  Acknowledge and accept the emotions that come with job loss. It’s normal to feel a range of emotionsincluding shock, anger, sadness, and anxiety. Talking to a trusted friend, family member, or counselor can help you process these feelings. Organizations like the Ontario Psychological Association provide directories to find licensed psychologists who can offer professional support.  Phillip Newman, a 32-year-old in Toronto was laid off a month ago from his tech job. “At first, I was mad, then I was sad and anxious. I reached out to friends and family to gain their support and guidance. Finally, one month removed, I’ve been able to fix up my resume and start applying to jobs. I hope I will be able to find something soon, but just knowing I have my support system and network looking out for me really means the world to me,” he says.  Stay positive and practice self-care  Maintaining a positive outlook during this time is challenging but crucial. Engage in activities that bring you joy and reduce stress. Exercise, meditation, and hobbies can be effective ways to manage stress. The Canadian Mental Health Association offers resources and workshops on mental well-being and self-care strategies.  Taking next steps  Assess your financial situation  Job loss can have significant financial implications. Start by assessing your financial situation and creating a budget to manage your expenses. The Financial Consumer Agency of Canada provides budgeting tools and advice on managing finances during unemployment.  “I was given a decent severance package from my job, so that has allowed for some leeway. But I have had to be more careful in terms of erroneous expenditures, like having to say no to going out to dinner with friends, or going on vacation until I land a new job,” Newman explains.“Budgeting has been really helpful to keep me on track and not feel overwhelmed.” Update your resume and online profiles  Take the time to update your resume and LinkedIn profile. Highlight your skills, accomplishments, and any new training or certifications. Websites like Canada Job Bank offer resume writing tips and templates to help you create a strong resume.  Newman says, “It can feel embarrassing updating your Linkedin page, or notifying your network that you have been laid off. I have found that talking to people and sharing my news has meant more opportunities may arise.”   Consider skill development and training  Unemployment may allow you the time to enhance your skills or learn new ones. The Ontario Skills Development Program offers various training programs to help you gain new qualifications and improve your employability. Additionally, platforms like Coursera and LinkedIn Learning provide a wide range of online courses that can boost your skills.  Job search strategies  Utilize job search resources  Ontario has numerous resources to assist in your job search. The Ontario Job Bank and Service Canada websites list job openings across the province. Additionally, local employment centers, such as Employment Ontario, provide job search assistance, resume workshops, and interview preparation services.  Networking and professional associations  Networking can be a powerful tool in finding new job opportunities. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and connect with former colleagues and mentors. Organizations like the Ontario Chamber of Commerce host networking events and offer resources to expand your professional connections.  Moving forward  Consider career counseling  Career counseling can provide guidance and support as you navigate your career transition. YMCA Employment Services offers career counseling and job search workshops to help you identify new career paths and job opportunities.  Stay open to new opportunities  Job loss can be an opportunity to explore new career directions. Consider temporary or freelance work, which can provide income and help you gain new experiences. Websites like Upwork and Indeed list freelance and temporary job opportunities.  Dealing with job loss is undoubtedly challenging, but with resilience, support, and proactive steps, you can overcome this difficult period. Utilize available Ontario-based resources to support your emotional well-being, enhance your skills, and find new job opportunities. Remember, every setback can be a setup for a comeback. 

An intro guide to Canadian taxes 

Taxes are an inevitable part of life in Canada. With distinct laws and regulations for different types of taxation, paying taxes is sometimes confusing and overwhelming. Keep reading to learn a little bit about different taxes in Canada to avoid undue stress.   What are taxes?  Taxes are mandatory payments that individuals or businesses make to the Canadian government. These payments support governmental programs and services such as education and health care. Tax payments also contribute towards social programs like employment insurance (EI) and the Canada Pension Plan (CPP).   In Canada, all three levels of government — federal, provincial or territorial and municipal (local) — collect taxes.   Income tax  Individuals and businesses are required to pay taxes based on their annual income. During tax season, usually sometime within the first four months of every year, Canadians determine how much they owe on an income tax and benefit return. By completing the return, they can also receive federal and provincial or territorial benefits and credits.  Tax credits help to reduce the amount of income tax owed. Some reduce tax to zero while others can be refunded to the individual. There are several tax credits available to claim based on specific requirements. For example, the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a monthly payment for eligible families with children under 18 years old. There is also the GST/HST credit, which is a quarterly payment for individuals or families with lower incomes.   The process of filing a tax return can vary based on an individual’s residency status in Canada. There are those living in Canada permanently (like Canadian residents), those leaving Canada temporarily or permanently (e.g., those working abroad), and those living in Canada temporarily (e.g., international students).  Sales tax  There are three kinds of sales tax in Canada. First is the goods and services tax (GST), a federal tax added to most goods and services purchased in Canada. Second is the provincial sales tax (PST), an extra tax paid in certain provinces. Third is the harmonized sales tax (HST), active in certain provinces where GST and PST are combined.   The current tax rates are as follows:  PST is currently seven per cent in B.C. and Manitoba, 9.975 per cent in Quebec. and six per cent in Saskatchewan. In other provinces and territories that do not use HST, the PST is currently at zero per cent.   Property tax  Municipal governments determine property tax rates based on the value of land and buildings. Property tax is generally paid annually, but rules may vary across municipalities. For example, some charge monthly or biannual payments.   In 2022, property tax rates were 0.67 per cent in Toronto and 0.28 per cent in Vancouver. This means that for a home valued at $500,000, an individual would pay $3,350 in property taxes in Toronto and $1,400 in Vancouver.   Rates may change annually based on each municipality’s discretion. As of 2024, Toronto’s property tax rate has risen to 0.72 per cent while Vancouver’s remains at 0.28 per cent.   Customs duties or tariffs  Duty is a tariff charged on certain goods imported to Canada. Rates depend on what the product is, where it is coming from, and how much it costs. Most imported goods are also subject to sales tax. More information on duties and rates for all types of goods imported to Canada can be found in the Canadian Customs Tariff.  The Canadian Border Services Agency has provided a tool to calculate duty and tax estimates. This tool only applies to goods imported to Canada for personal use.      Health services tax  A portion of the money collected from income tax funds health care services. Rates vary per province or territory. The annual tax rate based on personal income is known as a premium. In Ontario, those with an income of $20,000 or less have a $0 premium, while those with an income of more than $200,600 have a $900 premium.    While they are sometimes frustrating, taxes are an integral part of Canada’s economy as they help fund important services. Remember that taxes are mandatory payments that cannot be avoided. Failing to pay taxes accordingly can lead to fines or other punishments, so make sure to stay on top of all necessary payments.   

Can businesses use tech to tackle the climate crisis?

Businesses are known to largely contribute to climate change. Companies, especially large industrial corporations, overwhelmingly emit greenhouse gases. Smaller businesses, too, often have a larger carbon footprint than individual consumers. The Government of Canada is aware of the climate crisis and is working to lower the country’s emissions. Canada passed the Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act in 2021, which promises that Canada will either emit zero greenhouse gases or offset its emissions by 2050. The government also introduced the Net-Zero Challenge, which aims to encourage businesses to develop their own plans to reach net-zero emissions to comply with upcoming regulations. Every Canadian company has a part to play in reducing their carbon footprint. Some companies, however, have ambitions to actively reverse and mitigate climate damage. Read ahead to learn more about the companies on the frontlines of the climate crisis and the technologies they’re using to fight climate change. Is carbon capture the answer? Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is the process of recovering carbon dioxide (CO2) from fossil-fuel emissions and storing it permanently underground. It has been promoted as an effective method to support efforts to reach net-zero, as CO2 is stored in the ground rather than the atmosphere. However, research has criticized this strategy. A 2022 report by the UK Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis studied 13 CCS projects and found that only three performed as they were meant to. Another report drew a similar conclusion closer to home. The Quest plant, a CCS facility operated by Shell in Alberta, had previously been promoted as a strong example of how CCS significantly reduces carbon footprints. However, a report by Global Witness found that the facility only sequesters 48 per cent of the CO2 it emits, which is 90 per cent lower than the industry’s capture rate standard for CCS projects. Despite implementing CCS processes, the Global Witness report concluded that the Quest plant and similar CCS projects were significant greenhouse gas emitters. The report also claimed that the fossil fuel industry must be phased out to meet net-zero. Shell, however, has rejected these claims, calling them patently false. Regenerative agriculture Despite the criticism, CCS shouldn’t be thrown out altogether. One example of a net-win Canadian CCS project is regenerative agriculture, a type of farming focused on improving the environment’s health. This form of agriculture uses several techniques, such as covering the soil with plants that passively isolate carbon from the atmosphere. These cover crops can be sold, allowing farmers to make money by sequestering carbon. Some sources say regenerative agriculture could become an important tool to mitigate climate change. Régénération Canada offers a free map of Canadian farms using regenerative agriculture so consumers can buy from offering these practices. Biochar Another company using CCS to fight climate change is the Canadian startup venture Airex Energy, which has committed to building the country’s first industrial biochar plant alongside lumber company Groupe Rémabec and waste disposal company SUEZ. Biochar is a material created from a process known as pyrolysis, which converts raw material such as wood chips into charred material similar to charcoal. Biochar has various applications, including water treatment, laying asphalt and agriculture as a soil amendment. Biochar’s properties allow it to passively act as a CCS material and isolate carbon from the atmosphere. It may become a viable CCS method because it is produced from lumber waste products and offers a high CO2 absorption capacity. Nuclear fusion Beyond CCS, nuclear fusion is an in-progress solution that could lead to sustainable power generation in the future. Nuclear fission is our current method of nuclear power, which consists of splitting an atom apart. Nuclear fusion, however, occurs when atomic nuclei are combined to form a single heavier one. Canadian companies, including industry leader General Fusion, are on the cutting edge of this potential. General Fusion is a Vancouver-based company focused on developing a fusion power device based on magnetized target fusion. One of the benefits of nuclear fusion is that it wouldn’t create any dangerous nuclear waste. On top of that, a chain-reaction meltdown would be virtually impossible because of the conditions required to start and maintain a fusion reaction. On the other hand, nuclear fusion has produced over 250,000 tonnes of nuclear waste to date. Additionally,  waste disposal is an ongoing challenge because nuclear waste can take centuries to inactivate. Although fusion is still decades away from being a viable energy source, scientists are excited about having access to safe, clean, renewable energy in the future. A combination of solutions Net-zero can’t be achieved overnight or with one single solution. Despite the growth of green technologies, carbon emissions continue to increase. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change warned that there is more than a 50 per cent chance that global temperatures will exceed 1.5 degrees Celsius in warming. Fortunately, according to the United Nations, net-zero is realistic and achievable because affordable technology that can help us reach net-zero already exists. Investing in clean, renewable energy sources and environmentally friendly companies can also support Canada’s efforts to reach net-zero. Even though overcoming the climate disaster can seem impossible, governments and experts remain optimistic that the problem can be solved, especially if we all work together.

Boom, fizzle, BOOM: Navigating e-commerce in the post-pandemic world

Over the last couple of years, the e-commerce landscape has changed extraordinarily. The COVID-19 pandemic amplified e-commerce sales as consumers were forced to shop online due to lockdown restrictions. However, this rapid growth came to a halt after in-person shopping resumed. This resulted in multiple e-commerce companies laying off employees, including Amazon, which cut 27,000 jobs across 2022 and 2023, and Shopify, which laid off 10 per cent of its workforce in 2022. The pandemic-era e-commerce boom may have ended, but the industry still shows promising growth and resilience. Read ahead to learn about the past, present and future of the e-commerce landscape, including why many consumers are still gravitating toward e-commerce channels in a post-pandemic world. The COVID boom When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, most people were stuck inside due to local health restrictions that encouraged non-essential workers to stay home and avoid unnecessary travel. Despite in-person shopping stopping abruptly, consumer demand remained strong. The closure of brick-and-mortar retail outlets caused a massive surge in online shopping. In 2020, e-commerce sales in Canada grew more than 70 per cent. A year later, when public health guidelines loosened to encourage in-person activities, e-commerce sales only increased 14 per cent. Although the industry continues to grow, it is increasing at a more modest rate now. Alex Nguyen, a Toronto-based dropshipping business owner, recalls the pandemic-era boom. He said that despite the negatives of the pandemic,  he had never made more sales. He noted that most of his sales were driven organically and, for the most part, passively. However, his sales boom was short-lived because his business ebbs and flows depending on consumer demands. Though dropshipping is a niche segment of the e-commerce industry, a similar increase in sales occurred across many other sectors, including electronics, books and gardening supplies. Mobile commerce Mobile commerce, or m-commerce, is a facet of e-commerce for mobile devices. In the first quarter of 2023, mobile devices generated 58 per cent of internet traffic. In Canada alone, there are almost 34 million smartphone users.  M-commerce is a new concept that has plenty of room to grow. According to Shopify, m-commerce will account for $620.97 billion of e-commerce sales in 2024, meaning consumers will make almost half of all e-commerce purchases on a mobile device.  M-commerce has various advantages, including enhanced user experience, easier store access for consumers and better cost-effectiveness for marketing strategies. Nguyen explained that he regularly uses m-commerce, as many of his customers come from mobile shopping apps such as Amazon or Wish. Artificial intelligence and augmented reality Artificial intelligence (AI) has disrupted and transformed many industries around the globe, including e-commerce. Although these technologies are still new, they are expected to impact the e-commerce market significantly. According to an article by Tech Radar, when AI tools are integrated with e-commerce platforms, they can answer customer service requests, generate product images, optimize product listings and detect and prevent fraud.  Augmented reality (AR) shopping allows customers to interact with products in physical space via a smartphone, VR headset or AR glasses. Though this seems like science fiction, augmented reality has existed for several years and was popularized by the mobile game Pokémon GO. One of the possible disadvantages of e-commerce is that, according to some research, many consumers prefer in-person shopping. A reason that some consumers prefer in-person shopping is being able to see and touch products. Augmented reality can allow consumers to see products in person in a physical space without leaving their homes. The VR and AR market was worth $28 billion in 2021 and is projected to grow to over $250 billion by 2028. Grow with the times  E-commerce is constantly changing. Instead of viewing this as a frightening prospect, Nguyen suggests adapting to the times to try to leverage all the benefits. He tries to keep on top of all the trends so he can apply anything relevant to his business. Consumers regularly shop on e-commerce platforms, and the habit is only expected to grow. PwC’s 2023 Global Insights Pulse Survey found that 62 per cent of global consumers use a mobile device to purchase goods at least once per month. Consumers prefer online shopping over brick-and-mortar retail because of the convenience, product availability, lower prices and the option to compare prices across retailers. The preference for online shopping is strong globally and is projected to grow consistently. The pandemic may have boosted e-commerce sales, but the fact that they’ve continued to grow in a post-pandemic retail landscape demonstrates that e-commerce is here to stay. Monitor trends and changes in the e-commerce industry because, as the pandemic taught us, you never know when everything will change overnight.  

Canadian storefronts are sitting empty. Here’s why that’s detrimental to communities

Some downtowns in Canadian cities feel emptier than ever. The so-called “retail apocalypse,” a term coined in 2017, has been an ongoing problem for several years. However, the COVID-19 pandemic dramatically accelerated the shuttering of retail spaces.  Some brick-and-mortar spaces survived by rapidly adapting to a new retail landscape, such as restaurants converting into grocery stores and bars to bottle shops. Other retailers had to rely on emergency government loans,  which must be repaid shortly. Many businesses, however, could not adapt to the new landscape and were forced to close permanently. In some Canadian communities, this has led to a large presence of shuttered retail stores in downtown areas, making some shopping areas feel dreary.  This has become a significant problem in some communities, transforming neighbourhoods into neglected areas by destroying their cultural character while leaving residents with fewer amenities. Read ahead to learn about the scope of the problem and some solutions that can help put life, character and charm back into Canadian communities. Rising costs In Thunder Bay, Ont., six more businesses have closed than opened every month since July 2022. One major factor leading to these closures is inflation.   The problem is far from localized. Statistics Canada’s most recent monthly estimate of business openings and closures noted that retail trade was the second largest contributor to nationwide business closures, as businesses decreased for six straight months. The report also lists high accommodation and food services industry exit rates. Between retail trade, accommodation and food service establishments, there was a shrinkage of 1,106 active businesses in November 2022. Reluctant landlords Rising rents are also a main driver of retail and restaurant closures. One such instance is Lambretta Pizza, a popular restaurant in Toronto. Lambretta had to close its Roncesvalles location in late 2022 due to a 30 per cent rent increase. The owner, Celina Blanchard, said she already paid $12,000, so the rent increase was too much to afford. Blanchard noted that there were usable empty spaces for rent in the same neighbourhood, but the rents were similarly unaffordable. These storefronts are expected to sit empty until large companies with strong finances rent the spaces… When this happens, iconic stores like Lambretta disappear, leading to an emptier, indistinct cultural identity in Canadian neighbourhoods. Blanchard is not the only one who has noticed this trend. A report by the Better Way Alliance, a self-described ethical employer network, found that over three-quarters of commercial tenants have experienced a one-time rent increase of 10 per cent. The report also found that one in six commercial tenants experienced a 50 per cent increase in rent, and more than half anticipate being forced out of their tenancy due to rent increases. Landlords themselves have also seen costs increase. In 2023, Toronto’s property tax increased by 5.5 per cent, while in Vancouver, it jumped a staggering 10.7 per cent. Additionally, landlords may have an increased cost associated with maintenance. That said, these cost increases, while significant, are generally much lower than rent increases. A solution where everyone wins Landlords own properties to make money, and few businesses would fault them for generating profit from their investments. If a landlord did not earn a profit, there would be no incentive to rent the property they own. They are running a business, after all. That said, leaving vacant commercial space may not be in the best interest of a landlord’s profits. Of course, finances vary from investment to investment, but if a landlord pays into a commercial mortgage without earning rent off it, that is a significant amount of money lost for them. Instead, a more gradual and accessible rent increase is better for commercial landlords and tenants. Many landlords practice this successfully, cultivating strong business relationships while earning an income. It may be in the best long-term interest, both in terms of ethics and profits, for landlords to work collaboratively with the businesses that lease their properties. Working together so commercial tenants and landlords both earn a living is possible and well within reach. With this collaboration, everyone can profit. Neighbourhoods can be revitalized, making them safer and better for consumers, and landlords can profit off their investment while retaining tenants who bring life to downtown spaces. That way, we can revive and maintain the cultural identity of Canadian cities instead of having empty, shuttered storefronts plaguing our neighbourhoods.

Enhancing and expanding your business through non-profit partnerships

With rapid consumerism deeply immersing the 21st century, consumers can easily dismiss their moral compass as they shop. This is an indication of consumer culture, which describes a lifestyle whereby people view buying and selling goods as an important determiner of social organization, significance and meaning. This viewpoint plays a significant part in people’s outlook on themselves and society. The result is a hyper-focus on obtaining material goods. Business owners may also ignore moral obligations in favour of profits as they run their businesses. As intimidating as it can be to change a business model, it is rewarding and beneficial for a company to give back to the community. An effective way to give back is through partnering with a local non-profit. Here is a guide for businesses looking to partner with non-profit organizations. Select a non-profit that aligns with your company’s vision A company vision is what your business hopes to achieve in the future. It is a long-term business objective, and partnering with a non-profit with similar goals can bring even small businesses closer to their visions. One example is a Toronto cookware company called Kookn which partnered with the Parkdale Community Food Bank. Together they combat the barriers that cause food insecurity. After forming your company vision, ask yourself which non-profit addresses the same issue as your business and where you want to cause an impact. This is important because some non-profits are specifically local while others are more wide-scale. Understand the different types of partnerships Understanding the different types of corporate-non-profit partnerships is essential because some require more time and effort than others. A corporate sponsorship requires less effort because it only consists of businesses donating to a non-profit to support one of their events, like a fundraiser. Following their donation, the company name and logo will appear on event shirts, banners and more. Conversely, an in-kind donation is more hands-on because it involves donating an existing office space or supplies to a non-profit. Therefore, businesses going this route must have extra space or supplies to give. Lastly, a cause-marketing partnership involves a business donating a portion of its revenue to the non-profit with every sale. Businesses using this method benefit from a good public image. Get the attention of the chosen non-profit Getting in touch with a business’ chosen non-profit goes beyond contacting them through their social media accounts. Since most non-profits are locally based, seeking out non-profits in person rather than online may prompt a quicker response. Contact the non-profit founders and leaders, attend one of their meetings or volunteer at one of their events. Even if a business has few employees, ask if they would like to contribute to a donation made in the company name so that the non-profit will notice. Discuss the expectations of both parties Communication regarding boundaries and goals is key when businesses and non-profits form partnerships. It is a chance for both parties to learn more about each other, avoid future obstacles, and learn the best ways to support one another. The elements of discussion will depend on which partnership you both choose. Some examples include how much revenue the business will donate with each product sale, the requirements of fundraisers and events and who will be the primary communicators for the business and non-profit. This is when companies should clarify what is negotiable and non-negotiable. Communicating these key elements will ensure the partnership is sustainable, long-term and mutually beneficial.

The necessity of newcomer-owned businesses

Canada accepts hundreds of thousands of newcomers every year. 2022 was a record-breaking year, with Canada welcoming 437,180 immigrants. Newcomers often have big aspirations when they migrate to Canada. This is why many pursue post-secondary education or start their own businesses. Despite research and statistics proving their benefits to the Canadian economy, there are still xenophobic misconceptions and stereotypes towards newcomers. For instance, some believe that immigrants increase crime and exacerbate job shortages. Although these perceptions are incorrect, the harmfulness fuels obstacles newcomers face when trying to find a job in Canada. For example, immigrants usually have to take lower-paying jobs once they reach Canada because the training and education they received in their country of origin are not transmissible to Canadian qualifications. Other obstacles include language barriers and a lack of knowledge of Canada’s legal system and business procedures. Additionally, newcomers don’t have access to personal connections and communities in Canada. An often-overlooked fact is that these obstacles further push newcomers to be self-employed or establish their own businesses. These self-employment ventures and businesses significantly contribute to the Canadian economy. Canada is very particular about which newcomers are accepted. Often, the most welcomed immigrants are those aged 25-54 and placed under the economic category. Immigrants are placed under the economic category when their skills meet what is required in the labour market. Immigrants can also be placed under the economic category if they have a business plan. In 2021, 56.3 per cent of immigrants welcomed to Canada were classified under the economic category. This disproves the misconception that immigrants are unqualified or not ready to work. Immigrants also own more businesses and have higher self-employment rates than Canadian-born citizens. Statistics Canada reported that 11.9 per cent of immigrants are self-employed or own a business. In comparison, 10.1 per cent of Canadian-born individuals with immigrant parents have a business or are self-employed. This makes sense, given the barriers noted previously that immigrants face when getting a job. In addition, immigrants represent 33 per cent of all business owners with paid staff. Over 260,000 immigrants that own a business have paid employees. Businesses boost the Canadian economy by providing jobs, producing tax revenue, increasing GDP and putting money back into the community. However, one of the main reasons why immigrant businesses differ from Canadian-born businesses is that they boost international trade. According to a study by Statistics Canada in 2019, immigrant-owned firms tend to trade materials from the owner’s region of origin. This is particularly common in the manufacturing business. Immigrant-owned firms in the manufacturing industry import and export from outside countries at a higher rate than Canadian-owned businesses. This is because immigrants are more knowledgeable about the trade system in their mother countries. They also have more social networks with individuals that live in their country of origin. Using their connections decreases transaction costs while maintaining the demand for goods from their region of origin. Additionally, international trade is more comfortable for immigrants that own firms. This is because they understand their country of origin’s language, business culture and preferences. The result is not only economic benefits for Canada but also for the global economy. Canadians must reject the negative misconceptions surrounding newcomers. The number of immigrant businesses and how they function showcase their economic value in Canada. They deserve to be supported, accepted and acknowledged for their contributions. Not only do newcomers and immigrant-owned businesses benefit the Canadian economy, but they add to the diversity and vibrancy of Canada. Given that one in four Canadians are or were once immigrants, Canada would not be Canada without them.

Canada’s current industry landscape: Which industries are dying and thriving?

Canada has seen many changes in the profitability of its industries, especially at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many industries have begun to decline, while others have managed to flourish. Aspiring business owners may wonder which industries are currently viable to tap into. Continue reading to learn about some of Canada’s growing and declining industries. Growing Hotels The hotel industry was hit hard during the COVID-19 pandemic as international travel was halted. However, since travel restrictions have loosened, the industry has slowly regrown. One report by Commercial Real Estate Services Canada found that in June and July 2022, the hotel industry saw Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR) exceed 2019 levels, indicating that the industry is beginning to return to its pre-pandemic state.   This growth can be attributed to loosening travel restrictions, particularly among domestic and U.S. travellers. Additionally, event scheduling has returned across the country, encouraging increased travel and the need for hotels.  E-commerce This industry has been greatly aided by increasing internet traffic over the past few years, especially since online shopping has become more popular. According to an article by Canada Post, nine out of 10 e-commerce businesses experienced an increase in sales from 2021 to 2022, with more than 35 per cent saying their sales grew by 20 per cent or more. A market forecast predicts that the e-commerce market will see an 11.03 per cent increase in revenue by the end of 2023. Cinema Canadian movie theatres’ performance largely depends on the reception of major film releases, so this industry tends to be uncertain. In addition, much of the industry’s revenue is driven by Cineplex, which accounts for more than 60 per cent of the market.  However, this industry is still profitable. Statistics Canada reported that Canadian film productions saw a 20.2 per cent revenue increase from 2019 to 2021. This number continued to increase as restrictions were loosened further, and this growth may be attributed to a buildup of projects delayed during the pandemic. Full-service restaurants The restaurant industry has seen a significant revival after the pandemic. A report published by Circana found that restaurant visits increased by 11 per cent in the first quarter of 2023. Additionally, despite increased prices, spending increased by 18 per cent.  This increase can be largely attributed to the gradual change in people’s behaviour outside the home, such as the return to in-person work, as morning meal demand increased by 13 per cent in 2023. Declining Newspaper publishing The newspaper industry continues to face serious competition from digital media. A 2023 report found that revenue in this industry decreased by 9.5 per cent from 2018 to 2023. Printed newspaper sales have declined as online outlets offer the same material more conveniently and at a lower cost. The pandemic was believed to be a huge factor in this decline as consumers were stuck at home and primarily engaged with online news stories. Canned fruit and vegetable processing With increasing health concerns, this industry has seen a recent decline. Many consumers are turning to fresh produce goods, so demand for canned goods has decreased steadily. According to a recent report, the revenue in this industry is expected to drop by 1.2 per cent by the end of 2023. Bookstores Similarly to the newspaper industry, bookstores have seen serious competition from online retailers and e-books. A report says that although bookstore revenue increased between 2013 and 2018, the industry experienced a 7.4 percent annual market size drop from 2018 to 2023. Online retailers can offer products at more competitive prices, slowly driving the profitability of bookstores downward. Paper mills The demand for paper products has decreased in recent years, and the industry is expected to decline. A 2023 report found that the industry’s revenue is expected to decrease by 6.4 per cent from 2018 to 2023, with a predicted 2.3 per cent revenue drop in 2023 alone. As discussed earlier, there is a decreasing demand for newspapers in favour of digital media. However, this lowered demand expands past newspapers to include other paper-based products, such as office supplies.  Keep in mind that industry performances constantly fluctuate and may change without warning. Just because an industry is in decline now doesn’t mean it will always be that way, and the same applies to growing industries. Continue to research industry trends to remain updated on the latest industry changes.