What’s In This Email

• Government entrepreneur incentive won’t fix capital gains damage

• How Hoka became a $1 billion brand embracing its “ugly”

• 80+ Things to do this Labour Day weekend in Ontario

• 10 Sandwiches you need to try

• Notable Spotlight: Aleria

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✍️ TAKE NOTE

Government’s Sweetened Entrepreneur Incentive Faces Criticism Despite Efforts

Despite recent tweaks to the Canadian Entrepreneurs Incentive (CEI) aimed at supporting business growth, several business groups argue that these changes won’t fully offset the negative impact of the 2024 capital gains tax adjustments. Here's a look at the mixed reactions and what they mean for Canada's business landscape.

Key Takeaways

• Tepid Response to CEI Enhancements: While the government has broadened eligibility and shortened the rollout period for the CEI, Benjamin Bergen of the Canadian Council of Innovators criticizes these moves as insufficient to counteract the detrimental effects of the capital gains tax changes.

• Small Business Exclusions: The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) acknowledges the improvements but highlights that numerous small businesses, particularly in industries like restaurants, hotels, and professional services, remain excluded from these incentives.

• Changes in Eligibility: The updated CEI now allows business owners who have held a minimum of 5% ownership for at least 24 months to qualify, a reduction from the original 10% requirement. It also broadens eligibility to include various small businesses and farming and fishing properties.

• Altered Rollout Schedule: The CEI will now be implemented in $400,000 annual increments over five years, rather than the previously planned $200,000 over ten years, aiming for a quicker impact.

• Wider Tax Concerns: The new capital gains tax policy increases the inclusion rate for corporations, trusts, and individuals, sparking backlash from sectors like healthcare and technology, where leaders fear it could stifle innovation and growth.

Why this matters: These changes to the CEI and capital gains tax have significant implications for small business owners and entrepreneurs in Canada. Understanding these developments is crucial for anyone involved in or planning to enter the entrepreneurial space, as they navigate the evolving landscape of financial incentives and tax obligations.


Read the full article here.

How Hoka Became a $1 Billion Brand by Embracing Its "Ugly" Aesthetic

Once dubbed “ugly” and “weird,” Hoka sneakers have turned those perceptions into a billion-dollar success story. Despite initial skepticism, the brand, known for its thick, cushioned soles, has found a niche in the athletic shoe market by embracing its distinctive look and delivering exceptional comfort and performance.

Key Takeaways

• Embracing Distinctiveness: Hoka’s unconventional design, initially seen as a drawback, became a key selling point. CEO Dave Powers stated that owning the "ugly" label set Hoka apart, creating a distinct identity in the crowded sneaker market.

• Foundations in Performance: Hoka was founded by French mountain runners looking to create a shoe that could handle downhill runs efficiently. The brand’s oversized soles, inspired by mountain bikes and powder skis, offered a unique combination of stability, cushioning, and lightness.

• Scaling Up with Strategy: To grow, Hoka expanded its product range, introduced new, lower-profile shoes, and diversified its marketing to appeal to different customer segments. They maintained a focus on their core strengths—distinctive design and high performance—while reaching out to new demographics.

• Influencer and Professional Endorsements: Early endorsements from ultra-runners and expansion into sponsoring elite athletes helped Hoka gain credibility. The brand also found allies in podiatrists, who frequently recommend Hoka to runners suffering from foot problems, thereby broadening its appeal.

• Strategic Operations and Innovation: Hoka has sustained its growth through smart operations, such as maintaining founder involvement for product innovation, using test stores for new designs, and focusing on quality control in manufacturing.

Why this matters: Hoka’s journey from niche product to mainstream success underscores the power of differentiation and staying true to brand identity. For entrepreneurs and brand managers, Hoka’s strategy highlights the importance of embracing distinctiveness, leveraging influencer endorsements, and maintaining operational excellence to scale a brand effectively.

Read the full article here.

@piggies_to

10 sandwiches you need to try in Toronto #toronto #sandwich #foodie

Aleria

Happy hour $6 - $12

@geer.than

One of best spots for Happy Hour and incredibly affordable prices #torontohappyhour #torontocheapeats #torontopatios #patioseason #toronto... See more

Book a reservation.

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🧠 Today We Learned: Alanis Morrisette was dropped by her record label after disappointing sales of her first two albums. Her third album, Jagged Little Pill, is the 13th highest-selling album of all time worldwide.

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Notable Life is Canada for young professionals, entrepreneurs, and culture generators operated by The Notable Group. Notable Daily inspires ideas and sharpens the minds of over 40,000 top-tier professionals in competitive industries.

Disclosure: While we utilize artificial intelligence (AI) to assist with certain aspects of content development, all information provided in our content is thoroughly vetted and edited by our team of humans. We strive to ensure the accuracy and reliability of all information. However, we recommend that readers conduct research or seek professional advice to make informed decisions. This email may contain sponsored content.