October 8, 2008 - Vancouver business owners up for Entrepreneur of the Year Awards

Four Vancouver business owners are up for 2008 Entrepreneur of the Year Awards.

Allison Kanderka had just $500 in her bank account when she started Alleycat Music, a rehearsal studio for musicians. After banks and private investors rejected her requests for help, she got a $15,000 loan from the Canadian Youth Business Foundation. But her battle wasn't over. She has since slogged through a robbery at the studio, an accident that left her with a fractured skull and concussion and two back-to-back car collisions. Kanderka is a finalist in the perseverance category.

Tim Wong's Chi Activate has come a long way from its beginning as a one-man operation based in Wong's one-bedroom apartment. Today, the online retailer of beauty and massage products has over 200 resellers across North America. Chi Activate's Neck Traction Device will be featured on Global TV's da Kink in my Hair early next year. Wong is a finalist in the high-tech category.

Jane Geszler of Budget Blooms is also an online retailer. She specializes in providing fresh, stylish flowers for weddings. Geszler sets herself apart from the pack by suggesting ideas to couples that allow them to cut costs by doing it themselves or with the help of friends. She is a finalist in the home-based business category.

Melanie Burke's funky Gastown salon Burke & Hair has had a great year, with a coveted spot in FASHION magazine's list of Canadian Top Salons. The secret to her success? "This is not a hair factory. Each client feels she or he has collaborated artistically with the stylist to truly find a hairstyle that fits both a client's lifestyle and personality," says Burke. She is a finalist in the service category.

The Entrepreneur of the Year Awards recognize graduates of the Douglas College Self Employment Program. This year, 20 finalists are up for awards in eight categories. The celebrations take place during Small Business Week at the Executive Plaza Hotel in Coquitlam on Oct 22. Over 400 program alumni and special guests are attending.

For more information on the Entrepreneur of the Year Awards and the Douglas College Self Employment Program, please contact Mari-Lou Shoulak at 604-781-9101.

-30-