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The latest news and information for entrepreneurs from across the web universe, brought to you by the Report on Small Business team. Follow us on Twitter @GlobeSmallBiz. Download our app here.
New semiconductor player scores venture funding. Spectra7 Microsystems announced today that it has secured a first closing of $11-million in venture captital funding. The public analog semiconductor company, which formed on July 17 through the merger of Toronto-based Fresco Microchip, RedMere Technology and Chrysalis Capital VIII Corporation, will use the funding to accelerate product development. Marketwire.
Mostly gloom for U.S. small business owners. While the appointment of Paul Ryan as Republican vice presidential candidate may be good news for small business owners, optimism in July continues its steady descent, according to the National Federation of Independent Business' confidence index. Dragged down by concerns about earnings, optimism dipped 0.2 points following a 3-point plunge in June. Washington Post and Wall Street Journal.
Business clichés to avoid at all costs. A clever roundup of some of the most worn out platitudes around. Inc.com.
EVENTS AND KEY DATES
Start it up
Vancouver's Startup Weekend takes place on Aug. 17 and provides an unprecedented level of networking, team building, learning, and life changes for its attendees and their communities.
Small Business Summit
Vancouver is also the venue for the next Small Business Summit, to take place on Oct. 4. Presented by The Globe and Mail's Report on Small Business, the one-day event will include keynotes, panel discussions, mentor programs and other offerings. Save more than 40 per cent with the "kick-off rate" by registering before Aug. 31. For more information, click here.
EDITOR'S PICKS FROM REPORT ON SMALL BUSINESS
Edelman Toronto shows off clean, contemporary office
In this month's The Amazing Space, Lisa Kimmel, general manager of Edelman Toronto, walks us through the public relations agency's fresh, fun and funky workspace
FROM THE ROSB ARCHIVES
Beyond free snacks: What the best firms offer their staffs
How five companies are reducing turnover, raising productivity and other workplace-related challenges
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Katherine Scarrow