On June 16, 2015, the US-based Kickstarter program announced that it would allow creative entrepreneurs based in Switzerland to officially launch projects on its crowdfunding platform.
Since it was launched in 2009, 8.9 million people have pledged more than $1.8 billion via the Kickstarter platform, funding 87,000 creative projects. Indeed, thousands of creative projects are currently raising funds on the platform, covering everything from films, games and music, through to art, design and technology.
Operating purely as a platform and resource for creative people, Kickstarter does not get involved in the development of any projects itself. Creative entrepreneurs have complete control over and responsibility for their own projects.
So if you’re in the process of setting up your own small company, or would simply like to inject a bit more cash into your new enterprise, then Kickstarter could be just the help you need to grow your business.
One of the biggest concerns for businesses in this region is how best to promote their products and services. Nowadays, there are literally hundreds of ways you can promote yourself - but if your business is new and you only have a limited marketing budget, which tools are most likely to give you a good return on your investment?
Well before you start spending money, you need to consider the free options. And, as many of our readers know, the Know-it-all passport guidebook provides a wonderful opportunity for organizations in Geneva, Vaud and neighboring France to "get their name out there" for free. First published in 1999, it has become THE reference book for anything you want to know from shopping, housing and education to where to hold a birthday party, places to eat, night life, and chocolate!
30% discount for knowitall.ch readers (see conditions below)
Did you know that an estimated 90% of the Swiss population is not properly insured – and that this percentage is even higher among foreigners who are new to Switzerland? Bombarded with information from insurance companies about different policies, with little time to review them properly, it is clear that many people will make poor choices, which only become apparent when they have to make a claim and realize they are not properly insured.
One insurance company, which is gaining popularity with both newcomers and long established residents in the expat community, is APF Conseils. Headed up by Alexandre Schaeren, this small company, based in Geneva, helps demystify the issue of insurance for its clients, so there can be no misunderstandings during the selection of a policy and the subsequent administrative process. Not only does the company’s team of advisers ensure that its clients are correctly insured, it also makes every effort to find the best price for the policies it proposes, so clients can be confident that they are getting the best value for money.
With many companies under increasing pressure to reduce their costs, budgets for staff entertainment and training are two areas that frequently come under scrutiny. Team building courses and staff night outs are amongst the first items to be axed from departmental budgets.
Bi-lingual, social and cultural networking organization, Le Café Vivant, has come up with an innovative idea to enable companies to develop the communication skills of their employees, in an amusing and entertaining way that is sure to be classed one of the “best night outs” on the company!
Their new Murder Mystery evenings, have been designed to enable work colleagues meet and mingle with their counterparts, at a special event that is full of mystery and intrigue. Le Café Vivant’s Murder Mystery evenings usually involve between 14 to 120 participants, typically with a male to female ratio of 70 to 30. Two weeks before the event, each guest will receive a personalized invitation that includes details of their character, with suggestions on how to dress and what accessories to include.
Local international school, Institut International de Lancy, is hosting the first in what is hoped to be a series of Careers Conventions for young English-speaking people in the region.
Specifically targeting students aged between 15 and 18 years, attending international schools in the Geneva area, this new career fair will take place on Tuesday, 11th October from 6pm onwards, and will provide a valuable insight into the many different career choices available to youngsters nowadays, including the opportunities they offer and possible entry routes.
Professionals from industry and academia will play a key role at the event, giving presentations on a wide range of career options, discussing their own career paths and passing on invaluable sources of information. They will also be available for individual and group discussion to answer specific questions or needs.
