Client Stories

Phenomenal Supports from SEED

John Bonkowski owns Let’s Get Going, a 24/7 roadside assistance business that provides 12v and 24v boosting for consumer vehicles and heavy equipment, along with other services including unlocking doors, fuel calls, and tire changes. John also contracts with CAA.

A year ago, John was receiving CPP disability. Wanting to become self-reliant, John approached the Society for Manitobans with Disabilities (SMD), where he was introduced to SEED Winnipeg.

After attending an information session and filling out an application, John was accepted into the Business Enterprise Support & Training (B.E.S.T.) program. “[The] services I got from SEED were phenomenal,” John said. ”They helped me with a business plan, research and employment. My business consultant helped me to set up the website. All people at SEED were extremely professional and helpful.”

John also hired a bookkeeper, launched a Facebook page for his business, designed and created promotional materials, accessed financing, purchased business insurance, and registered with the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

They helped me with a business plan, research and employment. My business consultant helped me to set up the website. All people at SEED were extremely professional and helpful.

“My course took a year,” John adds, “and after, I still associate with SEED to get valuable advice and support. Although my company is just me right now, I will hire more people with disabilities before winter.”

Maintaining a good reputation, having good skills, representing himself in a professional manner, and enjoying what he’s doing are all components of John’s success. “Never stop learning” is John’s key advice to future entrepreneurs.