Part of StrongerBC, B.C’s Economic Recovery Plan is introducing the Launch Online Grant program investing $12 million to help small and medium-sized businesses move their business model online.

This grant provides funding to BC businesses to create an online shop and/or improve its experience to attract new customers and expand to new markets. 

The grant pays up to 75% of eligible expenses with a maximum of $7,500 for each business.

It is first come first served so be sure to get the funding while it lasts.

Eligibility

• BC-based business
• Under 149 employees
• Sales of more than $30,000 in the past year 
• Does not have an online store currently or has an online store that has a limitation

What the Funding Covers

Funding will help up to 75% of the expenses such as:

• Service provider costs:
• Platform and website development
• Copy and online content writing
• Developing an online inventory of goods and products
• Pictures (including a photographer), stock photos

Digital customer costs:

• E-commerce platform subscription (up to 1 year)
• Online advertising (up to 1 year)
• Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
  Banners and other embedded advertising

• Staff training to manage the online shop, learn about digital marketing, etc. 

Restrictions 

• Successful applicants must use one or more B.C-based service provider(s) to build or improve their online store. You can search for a local service provider here.
• You must start and finish your online shop within 12 weeks 
• You must submit a project proposal in order to get funding 

Find the full details of the Launch Online Grant here.

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Telehealth, Telemedicine, Telerehab!

These are many of the new buzz words that you will hear and see being used online currently with the COVID-19 pandemic overwhelming the country and health industry. What exactly is the difference and how can small businesses start taking advantage of this healthcare technology to support their patients during this time?

We can help implement all of this for you. Click Here to Get Started

Telehealth Defined

Telehealth is the delivery of healthcare, wellness and educational services remotely using live, interactive video conferencing. This virtual care allows individuals to receive health services without leaving their homes.

Telemedicine refers to doctors specifically consulting with patients remotely.

Telerehabilitation (or e-rehabilitation) is the delivery of rehabilitation services remotely. Most types of services fall into two categories: clinical assessment and clinical therapy.

How You Can Take Advantage of Telehealth and TeleRehab?

Did you know that ICBC is funding telehealth? While the world hits pause in the wake of COVID-19, the recovery of your patients doesn’t have to. Offering remote telerehab services to your clients will not only support your clients’ in recovering from their injuries, it will also help you with cash flow.

Modern technology allows video conferencing tools to be HIPAA compliant. Want to learn more about the regulations for telehealth in your industry? Check out these resource links:

• ICBC
• Physiotherapy Association of BC

Getting Started Is Simple

1. Choose your virtual care platform (simplepractice is HIPPA compliant)
2. Update your website with a new Telehealth service landing page
3. Add Online Booking capability so you don’t miss any bookings
4. Send out an email to your existing client base
5. Promote your new service on social media channels

We can help implement all of this for you if you need support.

Book a free consultation with our team now to learn more.

Online Marketing and website design are fast growing and ever changing industries. With a passion for high end design, expertise and customer service, the Longevity Graphics team continues to grow.

Cassie is a new addition to the Longevity Graphics team in a Front Desk Administrative Assistant role. To help introduce her to our clients and followers, read below for a brief Q and A.

1. What is your experience prior to joining the Longevity Graphics team?
   • I have managed a variety of businesses and offices, including a gymnastics and movement therapy gym, a restaurant and also a dinner theatre. I have assisted in special event planning and customer service and satisfaction with the dinner theatre as well.

1. What are your hobbies and interests?
   • I enjoy being outside; going to parks and hikes with my family and friends. I also love going back to my roots in the dance world and taking dance classes.

1. What do you bring to Longevity Graphics?
   • With many years in the customer service industry, I will be able to assist client needs and do what is necessary to ensure their satisfaction. I will also bring a friendly, fun and organized office atmosphere!

To connect with Cassie, email her directly at [email protected].

The Longevity Graphics team is made up of local industry experts that help clients get results. We specialize in online marketing services and website design and development. If you are looking to increase revenue from online leads, get in touch with us now.  Set up a 1 hour free consultation on all of the services we offer.

May is here! Our team is looking forward to the warm weather and these great spring events. Here is our list of the best events taking place in and around Vancouver during May 2018.

Special Mention: Rubens Ruckus 2018

Come out to Town Center Park on May 12 for the very first ever obstacle event specifically dedicated to our local youth. You will even see members of the Longevity Graphics team there helping out. Learn more about Rubens Ruckus and register your children, here.

Abbotsford Tulip Festival

The Abbotsford Tulip Festival is in full swing! The tulips are now in high bloom. That in addition to the beautiful weather we’ve had makes this the perfect time to head to the festival. Purchase tickets on their website.

Cinco De Mayo

Celebrate the Mexican holiday of Cinco de Mayo at various locations around the city on May 5. From pub events to water cruises, to running races and family-friendly activities, this holiday is all about having fun.

Playland

Vancouver’s amusement park opens on May 5^th. Come and enjoy the rides all summer long until September 16^th. You can purchase one-day or season play passes at the gate or online.

BMO Vancouver International Marathon

The BMO Vancouver International Marathon will be taking place on Sunday, May 6^th and is one of the top marathon events in Canada. There will also be a street festival taking place near the finish line in downtown Vancouver. The marathon starts at 8:30 am and includes a full marathon, a half marathon, an 8 km race, and a full-marathon relay. Click here for more information and to register.

Richmond Night Market

Are you excited for the opening of the Richmond Night Market for the season? We sure are! It will be open Fridays, Saturday, and Sundays from 7:00 pm until late from May 11 until October 8. As always, the market features ethnic food stations, trinkets and gadgets, clothing, and much, much more.

Mother’s Day

There are lots of ways to show your appreciation for your mom and spend some quality time with her on May 13. Here are some of our ideas:

• Take her out for brunch
• Go to a farmers market
• Go for a walk
• Take her out for dinner

Cloverdale Rodeo

Taking place over the Victoria Day Long Weekend, the Cloverdale Rodeo will be celebrating its 129^th year. This is a great family event and it features lots of shows, country music performances and rides. Don’t miss out the parade that begins in the Cloverdale Town Centre and finishes at 58^th Avenue. Visit their website for show and rides hours and t purchase tickets.

Vancouver Craft Beer Week

The Vancouver Craft Beer Week is taking place at the PNE between  May 25 til June 3. If you would like to attend, there are offering single day tickets as well as weekend passes that can be purchased online. Each ticket includes a souvenir mug and two drink tokens.

International Children’s Festival

Come out to the International Children’s Festival at the Surrey Arts Centre and Bear Creek Park from May 28 until June 3. There will be performances by Circus Incognitus, Charlotte Diamond, and other popular children’s entertainers. Enjoy the parade and lots of arts and crafts activities.

Bike to Work Week

Bike to Work Week is a community event that invites everybody to make Vancouver a happier and healthier place to live by biking to work during the week of May 28 until June 3. Learn more about the event and register, here.

Spring is finally here! There are so many great activities and local events starting up for the 2018 season. Here is our list of 10 things to do in and around Vancouver during April 2018.

We hope you’ll get a chance to do as many of these events as possible. Our #1 thing to check out would be the Twilight Drive-In.

Twilight Drive-In

There’s nothing like a summer night at the drive-in. It may not be summer quite yet, but the Twilight Drive-In is officially open for the 2018 season. See what’s playing this week. 

Easter Long Weekend

There are lots of family-friendly events taking place on the Easter long weekend. The Golden Easter Celebration, Easter Eggstravaganza, Easter Paintball Egg Hunt, and Easter Parade are just a few of the many events you can check out. Not to mention, all of the exceptional restaurants that serve buffet-style or a la carte menu-style brunches and the Easter Church services you can attend. Find more information about Easter events in your community.

Sound of Dragon Music Festival

Between April 3-8, come to the Annex Theatre in Vancouver for a series of intercultural performances by Canadian, Taiwanese, and international composers. To purchase tickets for the events and to see a list of the performers visit the Sound of Dragon website.

Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival

The Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates its 12th anniversary this year and features Cherry Jam Concerts downtown, Spring Lights Illumination at Queen Elisabeth Park, Sakura Days Japan Fair at Van Dusen Botanical Gardens, and more. Check out the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival website.

International Pillow Fight Day

On April 7, come out to the Vancouver Art Gallery to have some fun in a massive group pillow battle. The event starts at 3:00 pm.

Abbotsford Tulip Festival

This very impressive (and Instagramable!) flower festival will be open to the public starting April 9. There are over 30 different varieties of tulips and over 7 million colourful flowers for you to admire. Visit the website to purchase tickets online.

Whistler World Ski & Snowboard Festival

This is an annual event that takes place in Whistler and runs for 5 days, starting on April 10. There, you can enjoy free outdoor concerts, snowboard demonstrations and competitions, a comedy showdown, and more. For more information about the event, view the Festival Schedule.

Port Coquitlam City Wide Garage Sale

Are you wanting to declutter your home and make some extra cash at the same time? The City of Port Coquitlam will be having a city-wide garage sale on April 21. To participate, simply plan a garage sale at your Port Coquitlam home from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm and register online. If you register by April 11, you will get free advertising in The Tri-City News as well as on the garage sale web page. Register your garage sale, here.

Vancouver Sun Run

Everyone is welcome to participate in the 2018 Vancouver Sun Run on Sunday, April 22 at 9:00 am. Enjoy great views of downtown Vancouver, especially coming off the Cambie Street Bridge. Finish the 10 km race and enjoy a free concert, awards ceremony, and other celebrations inside BC Place Stadium. Register for the Sun Run, here.

Earth Day 2018

Plastic is threatening our planet’s survival. Together, we can make a difference. Take part in Earth Day 2018 on April 22 to help end plastic pollution. Check out these Earth Day events taking place in Vancouver.

From everyone at Longevity Graphics, we hope you have a great April 2018. 

Are you looking for a marketing career, not just another ‘marketing’ job that turns into cold call sales?

Do you feel like you have followed all the steps, finished school, got some experience, but just can’t seem to find a place to grow with and thrive?

We are a team of local experts who specialize in marketing and website design. We work hard for our clients and do our best to help them grow their businesses. Our local team is growing and we are looking for a motivated, energetic and driven team member to join our awesome team.

What we will help you achieve:

• Pride in your career
• Your personal and career goals
• Work / life balance
• Sense of belonging on a team of like-minded individuals

What we are looking for: 

PASSION – When you are passionate about what you do, it shines through in your work and attitude. Our team is made up passionate individuals who love what they do. To fit in with our team, you need to have a hunger for helping clients achieve their goals and a passion for digital marketing.

DRIVE – While we provide training, we find that in our industry, the more you do, the more you learn. We are looking for someone with drive and enthusiasm for their job; someone who is not afraid to think outside of the box and work hard to achieve their personal and career goals. We are looking for a true go-getter.

COOL FACTOR – We work in a fun industry. We get to meet many clients in different industries and we make the best of it. Having some fun along the way makes our lives better and makes coming to work that much more enjoyable. We are looking for someone to fit in well with our team and be a fun team member to have around.

YOUR ROLE ON THE TEAM

This is a full-time, in-house position with benefits.

As an Internet Marketing Coordinator, you’ll be working with our marketing team and clients directly.

Your role will consist of:

• Taking charge with project management within the marketing department
• Helping with customer support
• Managing both paid & social digital marketing campaigns
• Content writing

The ideal candidate will not be afraid to speak up and share their thoughts on how we can continue to grow and ensure our clients are happy and achieving the best results.

MUST HAVES

• 1 year of digital marketing experience, unless you can prove we should take a chance on you (we have been convinced before)
• Experience analyzing and reporting on marketing KPIs
• Ability to work well under pressure, think on your feet and problem solve
• Be detail oriented and organized
• Excellent communication skills, (verbal, written)

THE PERKS WE OFFER

• Fun, friendly work environment
• Great office location with river views
• Education compensation and growth potential
• Opportunity to establish a career and sense of pride in your work
• Dental and medical benefits
• Fun work events through the year

Show us how you stand out against the rest

3 Questions that will help us determine if you would be a good fit:

1. Have you ever failed at something in your life, how did you get past it?
2. If you could do anything in your career, what would it be?
3. If you had to pick a character from the TV show The Office that is most like you, who would you pick and why?

Please send your resume, cover letter and answers to the above 3 questions to [email protected].

It’s no secret that attracting and retaining customers is essential to your company’s survival as a business owner.

The evolution of the internet has changed the dynamic between businesses and customers. Consumers are no longer limited to one small geographic region to purchase their products and services. Combined with the wealth of information available at their fingertips, businesses are selling to customers who are better equipped to make informed purchase decisions.

The response from business owners has been to track, analyze, and predict future consumer behaviour through the use of statistical tools and data collection. The use of this data to predict and adapt to the changing marketplace is known as analytics.

What is Analytics?

It is anything that uses mathematics, statistics, predictive modelling, and machine learning techniques to find meaningful patterns and information in the recorded data.

Analytics has been used for some time; however, the level of sophistication of the tools used today vastly exceeds what was once available in the marketplace.

• When you Google a product only to notice advertisements for it following you around on other platforms.
• When you receive personalized offers in email form pertaining to a product you regularly purchase.

As a small business owner, it’s not necessary to understand the math behind analytics to make use of it. The following tips will show you how it can be used as a powerful business tool.

Understand the Behaviour of Each Demographic

By tracking the behaviour of each customer demographic, you will get a better sense of who your customers are. Analytics will show you exactly what each demographic purchases, when they purchase it, and what marketing strategies they respond strongest to.

Formulate and Adjust Marketing Strategies

Analytics is merely a tool. It arms you with a statistical break down of information to help you make better-informed decisions. While it seems only logical for business owners to track their customer’s behaviours, many are unaware of the most basic details of their desired target audience.

With analytics, you can understand the effect each decision you make has on your overall performance. This is vital for new businesses who have yet to establish a reliable clientele.

Do you need help setting up a Google Analytics account or deciphering the vast amount of information? Longevity Graphics can help!

Despite the fact that we received 30 centimetres of snow just this past Friday, spring is almost here! With the weather (slowly) warming up, there are lots of great events taking place in and around Vancouver during March 2018.
 
Kick off the spring season with this list of things to do in Vancouver in March 2018.

Lantern in the Garden

From February 16^th until March 4^th, come and experience an impressive lantern festival at Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. Tickets and more details about the event can be found on their website.

Vancouver International Dance Festival

Between March 1^st and March 24^th, come watch a series of special dance productions. These events will be taking place at various venues throughout the city. Visit the Vancouver International Dance Festival for more information.

Northwest Comedy Fest

The Northwest Comedy Fest runs from March 3rd to March 10^th and features a series of stand-up comedy performances. For full details, visit JFL Northwest Comedy Fest. 

Coquitlam Craft Beer Festival

On March 10th, come out to Westwood Plateau Golf & Country Club to enjoy some brews from over 40 craft breweries and 8-10 local restaurants and caterers. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the Coquitlam Craft Beer Festival website.

St. Patrick’s Day Weekend

This year, St. Patrick’s Day falls on Saturday, March 17. Various Irish-themed events will be taking place in and around Vancouver that weekend.

Cap Crusher

Cap Crusher is a 12 and 24 km run around the upper Capilano Canyon, on the west side of Cleveland Dam. This year, the run will be taking place on March 18. For more details about the event, visit the Cap Crusher website.

Spring Break 2018

Are you looking for ideas of how to entertain yourself and your kids during Spring Break 2018 in Vancouver? Check out this great list of activities.

2018 Juno Awards

The Juno Awards is celebrating its 47th edition this year! This annual Canadian Music Award show will be hosted by Michael Buble and will take place on at Rogers Arena on March 25. Learn more about the event on the 2018 Juno Awards website.

Vancouver International Auto Show

From March 28^th to April 1st, head down to the Vancouver Convention Centre for the Vancouver International Auto Show. The show features many different kinds of vehicles including a selection of vintage and famous cars. For tickets, visit the Vancouver International Auto Show website.

Easter Weekend

Enjoy Easter Bunny visits, Easter Egg Hunts, and other family-friendly activities throughout Vancouver and the Lower Mainland. Visit Easter Long Weekend for more information.

Thanks for reading through our list of 10 Things to do in Vancouver during March 2018. From everyone here at Longevity Graphics, we hope you have a great month. 

February 2018 isn’t one of the most eventful months of the year, but we still have a fun list of events you can take advantage of this month with your family and friends.

Here’s our list of 10 Things to do in Vancouver during February 2018.

Robson Square Ice Rink

The Robson Square Ice Rink is still open from now until February 28. It is free for all ages if you bring your own skates. They also have skate rentals available for $4.00. Check out the website.

Dine Out Vancouver

Dine Out Vancouver is one of Canada’s largest restaurant festivals. In January, hundreds of restaurants create 3-course menus at great prices. They then off these menus to the public during January and February.

Winter Farmer’s Markets

Check out these great local winter farmer’s markets that are open for the season.

• Hastings Park Winter Farmer’s Market
• Nat Baily Stadium Winter Market
• Port Moody Winter Farmer’s Market

Groundhog Day

Join Lou Jack the Groundhog in the Save-on-Foods Underground for a party to celebrate an early Groundhog Day. It will be taking place on February 3 and admission is free.  Visit the Newton BIA website for event details.

BC Family Day

February 12 is BC Family Day. There are lots of great family-friendly activities taking place throughout Vancouver and the Lower Mainland. Check your local community for events near you.

• Port Moody
• Coquitlam
• Port Coquitlam
• Maple Ridge

Chinese New Year

Visit the International Buddhist Temple in Richmond on February 15th to celebrate the Chinese New Year 2018! Experience Chinese New Year celebrations with a traditional flower market, auspicious windmills, late-night snacks and much more. Admission is free and all visitors are welcome to attend.

A Conversation with Michelle Obama

The Former First Lady of the United States will be coming to Vancouver on February 15th.  She will be presenting at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. Doors will open at 5:00 pm and the program will run from 6:00 – 7:45 pm. Learn more, here.

24 Hours of Winter

On Saturday, February 17^th, come up to Grouse Mountain for a two-day non-stop skiing, skating, and snowshoeing event. There will also be a live DJ and other fun activities. To learn more about this event, please visit the Grouse Mountain website.

Winterruption

Between February 17 to February 19, head down to Granville Island for a great Winter Arts Festival. The festival includes dance, music, film, art, crafts, and food. The dates and details can be found on the Winterruption website.

Vancouver International Wine Festival

Between February 24 and March 4, enjoy eight food & wine events that offer an educational and entertaining wine experience for public and trade. For events and tickets, visit the Vancouver International Wine Festival website.

We hope you found an event you want to take part in with your friends and family this month. From everyone at Longevity Graphics, have a great February 2018.