Business View Civil and Municipal | March 2021

17 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL MARCH 2021 Shane Howe, Managing Director of Phoenix Construction Group, Grand Cayman: “As someone who likes starting new businesses, I would say to make good alliances. Strategic alliances with people who support your business. if you remain true to yourself, it can be very rewarding.” Jason Cannon, Director of Economic Development, Town of Wake Forest, NC: “My advice would be to really recognize the resources that are available. Here in our area, the Triangle is incredibly blessed with some resources you can’t find in many other places. We have RTP (Research Triangle Park), the largest research park in the entire world. We have engineering schools at NC State that rival schools across the world. Three tier one research universities – NC State, Chapel Hill, and Duke. If I were looking to be an entrepreneur at this point in time, it’s just really recognizing the resources that are out there. And I don’t think everyone capitalizes on that as strongly as they could.” Martijn Balkestein, Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce & Industry Aruba: “The most important thing that entrepreneurs need to know is prepare yourself for the future. Be well informed and optimize your planning before you start your company.” Power Question What is the most important piece of advice you would give to someone who’s considering starting a small business today?