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mobiQode unveils lightning-fast Dynamic QR Code Generator

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Generate QR codes in less than 60 seconds to instantly boost your business’s digital presence AHMEDABAD, India, Oct. 14, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Innovative SaaS platform mobiQode has launched its dynamic QR code generator product. Designed to help businesses create QR codes in less than 60 seconds and revolutionize their digital engagement, mobiQode is already being used by a variety of businesses. Speaking to the media, Ankita Saraswat, Founder of mobiQode said, “mobiQode’s mission is to be the easiest QR code generator, making QR code generation simple and accessible for all types of businesses, including retail, healthcare, real estate, education, and many more.” Key Features of mobiQode’s QR code Generator include: Supports a wide variety of QR code data types, including websites, videos, images, social media, PDFs, restaurant menu, vCards, and digital business cards In-depth analytics for performance tracking and optimization GDPR-compliant security measures Bulk QR code creation capabilities to support large-scale campaigns Customizable URLs for branding needs “Our QR code generator provides the highest level of flexibility and caters to a wide range of personal and professional requirements. Whether you are a professional trying to ease the process of sharing contact information with a vCard QR Code, a restaurant enhancing their ordering process with a digital menu QR Code, or a marketer improving their omnichannel efficiency, mobiQode offers a tailored solution for all kinds of businesses,” Ankita Saraswat added. mobiQode offers a free 14-day trial, allowing businesses to access all the major features before any commitment. Paid plans start at just $15 per month, making the mobiQode platform affordable for all types of businesses. This makes mobiQode an indispensable tool for companies to maintain their competitive edge in a digital world . What sets mobiQode’s Dynamic QR Code Generator apart? User-Friendly interface QR code customization options Affordable pricing with a 14-day free trial In-depth Analytics State-of-the Art QR Code design templates To start your 14-day trial today and see how mobiQode can transform your business, visit mobiQode’s QR code Generator .

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Converge Technology Solutions + Red Hat to Accelerate Customer Success with Professional Services

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TORONTO and GATINEAU, QC, Sept. 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ – Converge Technology Solutions Corp. (“Converge” or “the Company“) (TSX: CTS) is pleased to announce it has joined Red Hat Partner Practice Accelerator, a specialized growth pathway for select partners with validated professional services delivery capabilities. With this participation, Converge has demonstrated a commitment to delivering successful customer outcomes using Red Hat technologies and services within the commercial sector. “Converge is proud to join Red Hat Partner Practice Accelerator, as one of a select few organizations who hold this designation,” stated Greg Berard, Converge Chief Executive Officer. “This program’s focus on incentivizing and enabling partners to deliver within the commercial segment, including mid-market and SMB, aligns with Converge’s corporate strategy and fits within our approach to solution-based selling. Red Hat Partner Practice Accelerator will help improve our partner experience and encourage ecosystem co-creation, enabling us to deepen our capabilities to better support Converge customers.” Red Hat Partner Practice Accelerator is a focused growth route that enables partners with proven professional services skills to play a leading role at each stage of the customer journey and provide impactful results for customers using industry-leading solutions like Red Hat Ansible Automation Platform and Red Hat OpenShift. Red Hat assesses participating partners’ readiness to deliver critical services and solutions related to automation and application modernization, validating that partners are able to successfully architect, implement and configure tailored solutions for commercial customers. Red Hat Partner Practice Accelerator is also part of the company’s evolving partner engagement model to implement a standardized, globally unified approach to collaboration. Participating partners can benefit from simplified paths to co-create, innovate and deliver solutions and services to support customers on their hybrid cloud journeys. In addition to Red Hat Partner Practice Accelerator, Red Hat will continue to introduce additional Accelerator pathways for partners to sharpen specialized skills and empower them to serve customers across hybrid cloud environments. “As Red Hat continues to evolve and improve the partner experience, we are committed to helping partners build critical skills and services that can fuel real business outcomes for customers,” stated Laurie Fontaine, Senior Director of Global Commercial Partner Ecosystem at Red Hat. “We are pleased to collaborate with Converge as part of Red Hat Partner Practice Accelerator to guide customers within the commercial segment in shaping and achieving their digital transformation goals using industry-leading open-source solutions and validated services.” Red Hat, the Red Hat logo, Ansible and OpenShift are trademarks or registered trademarks of Red Hat, Inc. or its subsidiaries in the U.S. and other countries. About Converge Converge Technology Solutions Corp. is a services-led, software-enabled, IT & Cloud Solutions provider focused on delivering industry-leading solutions. Converge’s global approach delivers advanced analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), application modernization, cloud platforms, cybersecurity, digital infrastructure, and digital workplace offerings to clients across various industries. The Company supports these solutions with advisory, implementation, and managed services expertise across all major IT vendors in the marketplace. This multi-faceted approach enables Converge to address the unique business and technology requirements for all clients in the public and private sectors. For more information, visit convergetp.com.

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Canadian retailers are catching up to global peers on seamless commerce: KPMG

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Canada emerges fourth among eight countries in KPMG International report on future of seamless commerce TORONTO, March 22, 2024 /CNW/ – Despite historically trailing behind other countries in seamless commerce, Canada emerged fourth among eight major countries in making retailing a simpler, friendlier and more convenient experience for consumers, according to a new KPMG International report. “Canadian retailers are making significant strides to build bridges across multiple channels – online and bricks and mortar – to become more efficient and improve the consumer shopping experience,” says Kostya Polyakov, Partner and National Leader for Consumer and Retail, KPMG in Canada. “Amid tight profit margins, higher costs and sharply lower discretionary spending, retailers recognize they must embrace digital solutions to remain competitive and stay in business.” Over the past three years, Canadian retailers accelerated their growth in omnichannel solutions amid increased expectations from consumers now accustomed to purchasing from giant U.S. retailers, which in many cases are further ahead in digitizing their operations, adds Mr. Polyakov. A recent KPMG in Canada survey found that, despite the pandemic accelerating the move to online shopping, 67 per cent of Canadians still prefer to shop in-store versus online. A similar storyline is unfolding in the U.S., with 70 per cent of total retail sales coming from brick-and-mortar locations, the report finds.  The survey found Canadian shoppers want more detailed specs, better search functionality, easier returns, the ability to ask questions about a product and a better delivery experience as necessary to improve the online shopping experience. Meanwhile, research found that Americans focus more on speed, convenience, and personalization, likely due to the larger availability of e-commerce experiences and products in the U.S., the report says. “Retailers must shift their focus from channel to customer,” says Mr. Polyakov. “Consumers expect retailers to meet them where they are – online, whether it’s mobile or laptop, in-store, or on social media – and to deliver the same experience regardless. The only way retailers can meet their expectations is by breaking down data silos and developing a seamless, connected experience.” A new type of shopping experience is emerging While physical stores aren’t disappearing anytime soon, Canadian consumers expect a ‘phygital’ shopping experience, which seamlessly combines the service experience of in-store shopping with the product variety and convenience found online, says Mr. Polyakov. “E-commerce capabilities like click and collect and return in-store are becoming must-have services for retailers to remain competitive,” he says. “But seamless commerce needs to go beyond that. Our survey found almost two-thirds of Canadians want retailers to be more creative when replicating in-store experiences online, such as using virtual reality and artificial intelligence.” Retailers in China and most of Asia are already adopting live social commerce—which allows for real-time buying and interaction during live video events. However, Canada has yet to catch on to this concept, with KPMG’s research finding that most Canadians don’t make purchases from social platforms, and that’s not expected to change soon. Over the next three to five years, only four per cent of Canadians say they intend to use social platforms more frequently to make purchases—while nearly five per cent expect to use them less frequently. “While live commerce isn’t a huge factor yet in Canada, we expect this will change as more retailers experiment with their offerings to attract younger audiences who find the format fun and engaging and a way to secure better deals and prices,” says Mr. Polyakov. “Retailers will need to stay one step ahead by delivering consistent, personalized experiences, regardless of how customers choose to shop,” says Mr. Polyakov. Key report highlights: Read more about seamless commerce in Canada here.

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Converge Technology Recognized on the 2024 CRN Tech Elite 250 List

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TORONTO and GATINEAU, QC, March 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ – Converge Technology Solutions Corp. (“Converge” or “the Company“) (TSX: CTS) is pleased to announce that CRN, a brand of The Channel Company, has honored Converge on its 2024 Tech Elite 250 list. This is the third year Converge has been named to the list. To help customers navigate today’s IT complexities and harness the advantages of state-of-the-art solutions, solution providers—ranging from strategic service providers and systems integrators to managed service providers and value-added resellers—strive to uphold rigorous levels of training and certification from strategic IT vendors, often aiming for the pinnacle tiers within these vendors’ partner programs. The Tech Elite 250 list is a yearly compilation showcasing these solution providers, based in the U.S. and Canada, that have distinguished themselves by attaining top-tier certifications and specializations from leading technology vendors in the areas of infrastructure, cloud, and security. “Converge is proud to have once again been named to CRN’s Tech Elite 250 list, exemplifying our ongoing commitment as a top service provider in North America and globally,” stated Greg Berard, Converge Chief Executive Officer. “This award also showcases the incredible talent of the team within Converge who continually work to improve their industry knowledge and obtain certifications that ensure we are on the cutting edge of new solutions to best serve our customers.” “CRN’s Tech Elite 250 highlights leading-edge solution providers within the IT landscape, distinguished by their comprehensive technical proficiency, expertise, and commitment to achieving top-level certifications in critical technology areas,” said Jennifer Follett, VP, U.S. Content, and Executive Editor of CRN at The Channel Company. “These solution providers persistently strengthen their capabilities to bring the advanced IT solutions to market that customers need.” Coverage of the Tech Elite 250 will be featured in the April issue of CRN Magazine and online at www.CRN.com/techelite250.  About ConvergeConverge Technology Solutions Corp. is a services-led, software-enabled, IT & Cloud Solutions provider focused on delivering industry-leading solutions. Converge’s global approach delivers advanced analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), application modernization, cloud platforms, cybersecurity, digital infrastructure, and digital workplace offerings to clients across various industries. The Company supports these solutions with advisory, implementation, and managed services expertise across all major IT vendors in the marketplace. This multi-faceted approach enables Converge to address the unique business and technology requirements for all clients in the public and private sectors. For more information, visit convergetp.com.

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Cisco Meraki: 7 reasons why Canadian SMBs should explore Cisco Meraki solutions

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Cisco Meraki offers tailored solutions for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in Canada, providing simplified, cloud-managed IT infrastructure to drive efficiency, security, and scalability. There are several compelling reasons to consider using Cisco Meraki for your networking and IT infrastructure needs: With Cisco Meraki, SMBs in Canada can leverage enterprise-grade technology that is easy to deploy, manage, and scale, empowering them to drive digital transformation and achieve their business objectives with confidence. Explore Cisco Meraki here: https://www.cisco.com/c/en_ca/solutions/small-business/small-business-promotions-and-free-trials.html?eid=150977&oid=trlmrk031870&dtid=pdidgd000002&ccid=cc004800

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Tribe Property Tech : Acquisition Facility of up to $15 Million to expand its M&A activities with Canadian Schedule A Bank

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VANCOUVER, BC, Oct. 12, 2023 /CNW/ – Tribe Property Technologies Inc. (TSXV:TRBE) (OTCQB US: TRPTF) (“Tribe” or the “Company“), a leading provider of technology-enabled property management solutions, is pleased to announce that it has signed a definitive loan agreement (the “Loan Agreement“) with the Technology and Innovation Banking arm of a Canadian Schedule A Bank, that provides a senior term loan facility (the “Facility“) for up to $15 million. The Facility consists of a $3 million operating line to support the Company’s working capital requirements and an M&A facility of $7 million with an additional accordion feature of $5 million, for a total of up to $15 million of non-dilutive capital. The definitive agreement was signed on Thursday, October 5, 2023 with an interest rate of prime + 2.65% per annum for both facilities.  “We are thrilled to announce this significant milestone for Tribe which further strengthens our commitment to strategic growth and financial stability,” said Joseph Nakhla, CEO of Tribe. “Executing this financing facility is an essential piece of our M&A growth strategy as it provides us with access to non-dilutive capital which will be beneficial to our long-term capital structure, as well as aid in accelerating our growth plans.” About Tribe Property Technologies Tribe is a property technology company that is disrupting the traditional property management industry. As a rapidly growing tech-forward property management company, Tribe’s integrated service-technology delivery model serves the needs of a much wider variety of stakeholders than traditional service providers. Tribe seeks to acquire highly accretive targets in the fragmented North American property management industry and transform these businesses through streamlining and digitization of operations. Tribe’s platform decreases customer acquisition costs, increases retention, and allows for the addition of value-added products and services through the platform. Visit tribetech.com for more information. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD “Joseph Nakhla”Chief Executive Officer Tribe Property Technologies Inc. Joseph NakhlaChief Executive Officer1606 – 1166 Alberni Street, Vancouver, BCV6E 3Z3(604) 343-2601 NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE U.S. OR TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information This news release may contain certain “Forward-Looking Statements” within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities laws regarding the Company and its business.  When or if used in this news release, the words “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “target”, “plan”, “forecast”, “may”, “schedule” and similar words or expressions identify forward-looking statements or information. Forward-looking statements or information in this news relate may relate to statements with respect to the Facility and closing thereof; the aims and goals of the Company; financial projections; growth plans including future prospective consolidation in the rental management sector; future acquisitions by the Company; the completion of this transaction; beliefs of the Company with respect to the independent owner-investors market; prospective benefits of the Company’s platform; and other factors or information. Such statements represent the Company’s current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon several assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political, and social risks, contingencies, and uncertainties. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward- looking statements. The Company does not intend, and do not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements and information other than as required by applicable laws, rules and regulations. SOURCE Tribe Property Technologies Inc.

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Fintechs Canada launches campaign urging Ottawa to modernize Canada’s financial sector

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Choose More” advocates for lower fees, more choices and faster payments for Canadians OTTAWA, ON, Oct. 4, 2023 /CNW/ – Fintechs Canada today launched the “Choose More” campaign, an initiative to raise awareness of how our financial sector could better serve Canadian consumers and businesses. The campaign is a response to the significant financial strains Canadians are experiencing: The “Choose More” campaign aims to give Canadians a way to participate in the national debate and demand change from the federal government. By fulfilling promises related to open banking and payments modernization, the federal government can put more money back into the pockets of Canadians. “Canadians are really feeling the pinch across a range of sectors, and the financial sector is one of them. While our global counterparts are making their financial sectors work harder for their customers, Canadians are still waiting for their government to do the same,” said Alex Vronces, Executive Director at Fintechs Canada. “We believe Canadians know what best suits their financial needs, and so this campaign raises awareness of reforms that give Canadians more choice.” The launch of “Choose More” stands as a testament to Fintechs Canada’s commitment to driving change in the financial sector. To join the campaign, visit www.choosemoreforyourfuture.com. The campaign website articulates myths vs. facts, offers insights into the current financial system, and provides a platform for Canadians to demand reforms. _______________________ 1 https://globalnews.ca/news/4404502/chequing-account-bank-fees-ratehub-canada/ 2 https://www.payments.ca/sites/default/files/report_costs_of_payments_processing_eng_final_2018.pdf 3 https://www.ipsos.com/en-ca/six-in-ten-canadians-who-dont-own-home-have-given-up-on-owning#:~:text=While%20the%20majority%20(76%25),and%2063%25%20of%20those%20who  About Fintechs Canada Established in May 2019 as a not-for-profit member association, Fintechs Canada serves as the collective voice for fintechs in Canada. Our membership includes market-leading Canadian fintechs, fintech-friendly financial institutions, the technology companies powering Canada’s credit union sector, and global fintech companies, among others. For more information on how Fintechs Canada is shaping the future of fintech in Canada, visit our website and LinkedIn page. SOURCE Fintechs Canada

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Rakuten.ca: Canadians to use 5 cost-saving measures this holiday season

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Canadians are stacking more money-saving tactics this year to offset holiday spending TORONTO, Sept. 25, 2023 /CNW/ – Canadians have adjusted their money-saving and gift-giving tactics, including a reduction of grand gift exchanges for smaller variations, according to Rakuten.ca’s Holiday Spending Survey in partnership with Ignite Labs. With the average anticipated spend on holiday gifts estimated to be $570, down from $600 in 2022, Canadians are looking to reduce their holiday spending amid rising costs seen throughout the year. Parents will likely be spending the most this year than any other demographic surveyed, estimating an average spend of $745 for this holiday season. The survey found that Canadians plan to use an average of five cost-saving strategies, up from three in 2022.  Cost saving measures include: 75 per cent actively looking for sales/offers, 61 per cent planning to use loyalty programs like Rakuten.ca to earn cash back, 35 per cent planning activities instead of gifts and 56 per cent shopping earlier to spread out the expenses. 33 per cent are planning to drop some recipients from their typical lists, including friends, coworkers and neighbours. “Offsetting the financial strain of one of the highest shopping periods of the year is often a priority for many Canadians and we’re seeing increasing numbers of consumers looking at ways they can save, whether it be shopping sales or stacking deals,” says Jennifer LaForge, General Manager at Rakuten.ca. “We’ve been seeing a lot more conscious consumers, especially those looking for everyday savings to balance the high-spend holiday season with the rest of the year.” Savvy shoppers are consistently looking for new ways to save in times of increasing prices and are frequent users of money-saving tactics, cash back and loyalty programs as well as shopping sales throughout the gift giving season. Loyalty Programs & Cash Back As Canadians ramp up their money saving tactics, loyalty programs offering cash back will be increasingly utilized, with 65 per cent of respondents saying they prefer cash back versus the 35 per cent who prefer points systems. For holiday spending, 61 per cent said they would partake in the use of loyalty programs to earn cash back on their festive purchases. Shopping Timing Shopping at high sales times is a common tactic for Canadians, including the 63 per cent of those planning to shop Black Friday, 50 per cent planning to shop on Cyber Monday, and 46 per cent planning to shop on Boxing Day. 63 per cent of survey respondents also noted that they’ll be taking advantage of these sales to shop for themselves as well as others. Shift in Gift Giving Tactics When thinking of what they would like to receive themselves as holiday gifts this year, many Canadians say they would like to receive practical items that they actually need (63 per cent), followed by gift cards (53 per cent), experiences (28 per cent) and lastly luxury items (26 per cent). Thoughtful and responsible spending is top priority as Canadians are looking for ways to stretch their dollars further. In addition, to help manage holiday expenses, 76 per cent of Canadians plan to set an approximate budget for their shopping. About the survey The Rakuten Canada survey was conducted online by Ignite Lab, a Toronto-based survey consultancy specializing in retail, travel and technology segments, in August 2023 with a nationally representative sample of 1,000 Canadians. A sample of this size is accurate to within +/-3 percentage points, 19 times out of 20. References to previous Holiday research are from surveys conducted in 2022 & 2020 (approx. 6-months into Covid). About Rakuten.ca For over 10 years, Rakuten.ca is a leading shopping rewards program that offers Cash Back, deals and rewards from all your favorite brands. By partnering with over 750 brands in apparel, health and beauty, travel, on-demand services, subscription boxes and more, Rakuten helps Canadians get more from the things they buy. Since launching in 2012, Rakuten has become the largest and most rewarding shopping experience, and its 7 million members have earned $140 million in Cash Back just for shopping through Rakuten. For more information, visit Rakuten.ca.

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Info-Tech Research: The Digital Transformation of Wealth Management

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In the firm’s latest research-backed industry trends report, Info-Tech Research Group reveals that future success in the wealth management industry hinges on launching digital products and services tailored for younger, digitally proficient customers. TORONTO, Sept. 22, 2023 /PRNewswire/ – With a variety of industries facing the necessity of digital transformation, the wealth management industry is undergoing a particularly significant transformation. As control of assets shifts from older customers to their often more tech-savvy children, the industry’s traditional products and services are increasingly considered outdated. As a result, Info-Tech Research Group advises that wealth management firms must pivot to meet these changing demands. Info-Tech has published The Future of Wealth Management, a trends report providing insight into current customer expectations and outlining pathways businesses can take to implement digital transformation to stay competitive in the evolving landscape. Info-Tech Research Group’s blueprint “The Future of Wealth Management” highlights a strategic, multidimensional approach consisting of 12 transformation elements that will enable wealth management firms to understand the trends driving their industry and to maintain competitiveness. (CNW Group/Info-Tech Research Group) In the report, Info-Tech explains that the wealth management industry has traditionally relied on a combination of outsourced service providers and bespoke internal systems. However, these systems were not initially designed to provide the depth of integration necessary for modern digital products and services. “The wealth management industry has serviced its customers with traditional products and services that were largely segmented by the amount of assets in the account, and that often had a single decision maker,” explains David Tomljenovic, principal research director at Info-Tech Research Group. “Engagement was heavily focused on in-person calls or meetings. Client assets were invested according to model portfolios based on customer assets, intake forms, and ‘know your client’ information. However, younger customers expect robust digital or mobile tools that deliver highly optimized processes, products, and customer experiences.” Currently in the industry, IT’s role is typically focused on support rather than on functioning as a strategic business partner. Therefore, there is a pressing need for IT to evolve its approach and foster a relationship that aligns more closely with the overarching, long-term business objectives of wealth management firms. “One common point between both the traditional customer generation and the younger generation taking over is the desire for in-person engagement,” explains Tomljenovic. “While the investing process is becoming increasingly digital, personal contact is still an essential part of the wealth management process.” The report underscores the importance of adopting a multidimensional strategy when tackling the technological hurdles in the wealth management sector, pointing out that the profound changes required in wealth management permeate numerous aspects of IT. The complexities of the technological challenges in the industry are further amplified by the rapidly evolving market dynamics, necessitating substantial shifts throughout the organization from front-end to back-end operations. Consequently, implementing a successful, comprehensive technology transformation becomes more daunting as it involves multiple elements simultaneously. Info-Tech advises that these transformational areas can be broadly categorized into three main dimensions, each comprising four components: Organizational Dimension: Collectively, these components govern how IT organizes itself and aligns with business needs to drive deep and effective delivery. This dimension is comprised of innovation, enterprise architecture (EA), agile, and DevOps methodologies. Experience Dimension: The key capabilities that are required to drive the extensive user experience transformation that wealth management customers are demanding. The experience dimension includes data, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), automation, and security. Infrastructure Dimension: Organizations need to master these capabilities to support current customer demands to effectively deliver open, integration-friendly, and ecosystem-based customer solutions. Infrastructure is an essential part of the transformation process. The key components are ecosystem, cloud, integration, and digital. The firm also highlights in the report that the generational wealth transfer presents a significant opportunity for wealth management firms that can adeptly navigate this transition. Timing the rollout of new digital products and services to cater to the needs of younger, digitally savvy customers will be instrumental in driving success in a new era. To learn more about the firm’s findings and the recommendations for how IT can help wealth management firms stay current in the digital era, download the complete The Future of Wealth Management trends report. For media inquiries on the topic or to get exclusive, timely commentary from David Tomljenovic, an expert in the financial services sector, please contact pr@infotech.com. About Info-Tech Research Group Info-Tech Research Group is one of the world’s leading information technology research and advisory firms, proudly serving over 30,000 IT professionals. The company produces unbiased and highly relevant research to help CIOs and IT leaders make strategic, timely, and well-informed decisions. For 25 years, Info-Tech has partnered closely with IT teams to provide them with everything they need, from actionable tools to analyst guidance, ensuring they deliver measurable results for their organizations. Media professionals can register for unrestricted access to research across IT, HR, and software and over 200 IT and industry analysts through the firm’s Media Insiders program. To gain access, contact pr@infotech.com. For more information about Info-Tech Research Group or to access the latest research, visit infotech.com and connect via LinkedIn and Twitter. SOURCE Info-Tech Research Group

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Interac: Canadian entrepreneurs are embracing the nine-to-thrive

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Business use of Interac e-Transfer climbs 25 per cent year over year as Canadians seek to turn their passion into profit TORONTO, Sept. 21, 2023 /CNW/ – As more Canadians take on side hustles to earn additional income, a recent survey from Interac Corp. reveals a ‘nine-to-thrive’ effect taking place. While the initial motivation to launch a side hustle is often financial, more than half (55 per cent) of those surveyed say that it turned out to be more fulfilling than expected, with three quarters (76 per cent) intending to continue their side hustle alongside their main job, and almost two in 10 (17 per cent) planning to go all in, turning their passion project into their career. The satisfaction entrepreneurs experience in their side hustles is linked to the achievement of key milestones. The Interac survey shows that some take pride in that memorable first sale (22 per cent), while for others it’s achieving their first profit (25 per cent) or paying a salary for the first time (23 per cent). Interac e-Transfer® plays an important role in supporting these milestones – nearly two thirds of these entrepreneurs polled (62 per cent) use the service for business-related payments, contributing to 25 per cent transaction volume growth year over year. “Entrepreneurs have long been, and will continue to be, a driving force of Canada’s economy, yet we are hearing that almost half of those polled say they have had challenges accessing financial tools, tracking finances, and generally finding the advice or information they need to start or grow their business,” said William Keliehor, Chief Commercial Officer, Interac Corp. “We launched the Interac ‘From Dollar One’ hub to help bridge this gap and provide the resources entrepreneurs are asking for from their first dollar and beyond.” The Interac survey extends beyond those with a side hustle to also include freelancers and small business owners with up to four employees. Key findings about these groups of entrepreneurs include: Startup surge: Nearly half of Canadian entrepreneurs (46 per cent) said an increasing number of people in their personal networks have started a side hustle in the past year, and four in 10 (40 per cent) are currently considering at least one other idea for a new venture. The means to succeed: New business owners feel they lack the financial confidence and knowledge necessary to successfully grow their business when first starting out. Only 15 per cent of Canadian entrepreneurs had high confidence in their abilities to manage their business finances from day one. Nearly half of entrepreneurs (49 per cent) had challenges in finding the right information or advice for growing their business, lacked financial confidence or access to financial tools, and had trouble tracking finances. “As more Canadians transform their passion into a small business either full time or alongside their day-to-day jobs, Interac e-Transfer has grown rapidly in lock step,” said Anurag Kar, AVP, Money Movement Products, Interac. “Since many entrepreneurs already have the confidence of using the service as a consumer, they have quickly recognized it as an easy, efficient way to pay and be paid. Interac e-Transfer has been a payment option that eases the pain points that they face.” The Interac From Dollar One hub includes tips on building financial confidence and how to avoid burnout alongside practical instructions on the role Interac products, like Interac e-Transfer, can play in meeting a business’ key milestones. Advice offered to business owners within the hub includes: Pay and get paid—fast: Whenever possible, streamline and simplify the payments process. Set up Interac e-Transfer Autodeposit, so when you get paid, funds are deposited quickly and securely into your account. Maximize your payment methods: Over a third of entrepreneurs (35 per cent) said being able to accept and use Interac e-Transfer helped boost their financial confidence in managing a growing business. Additionally, half of businesses polled that use Interac® Debit (52 per cent) said they prefer it as a payment method for their business because it is a convenient way to pay. Not far behind that, two in five (43 per cent) cited safety and security as a key reason for preferring Interac Debit to make business related payments. Stay in charge of your small business: Pay attention to agreements and payment terms to avoid late penalties that could hurt your bottom line. Tracking payments and using your own money with Interac Debit or Interac e-Transfer can help avoid surprises at the end of the month, from extra fees or forgotten purchases. For more key tips and advice, visit the From Dollar One Hub at interac.ca/dollarone About the Interac survey The Interac survey was conducted among 500 Canadians entrepreneurs, a sample comprised of 362 side hustlers (i.e., do work outside of their primary employment), 82 small business owners (with 0 to 4 employees), and 56 freelancers. The survey was fielded by CICIC Research from August 9th to 16th, 2023.  The length of the survey was 10 minutes. The final sample was a result from natural fallout of a general population sample of Canadian adults weighted on age, gender, and region according to 2021 census figures. An associated margin of error for a randomly selected sample of n=502 would be ±3.8%, 19 times out of 20. About Interac Corp. Interac empowers Canadians to transact digitally with confidence by providing payment and value exchange services. In helping to develop the future of money and data in Canada, security is the core of everything we do. We help keep Canadian customers safe and secure when transacting. With nearly 300 financial institutions connected to our network, Canadians choose Interac products over 20 million times a day on average to exchange money. Interac champions workplace culture, community, and corporate citizenship. We are proud to be one of Canada’s leading and most trusted financial brands. For more information, visit our website. Interac is a registered trademark of Interac Corp. SOURCE Interac Corp.

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