As an Export Advisor, Denan Kuni brings a wealth of experience and a genuine passion for making a difference. With over 30 years in international economic development, he’s well-equipped to help entrepreneurs elevate their businesses and drive positive change.
Export Navigator: Can you introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your role as an Export Advisor?
Denan: I’m Denan Kuni, Export Advisor for businesses owned by Indigenous Peoples in the Lower Mainland. Before I joined Export Navigator, there wasn’t an Export Advisor dedicated to Indigenous-owned businesses in this region. Indigenous economic development is growing, not only in B.C., but across Canada. I’m really excited to be in this role to help foster that growth.
I work with a wide variety of companies across many sectors. A lot of my clients are in the food and beverage space, while others focus on creative arts, selling jewelry or beadwork specific to their culture or history. I also work with businesses in the tourism industry that are attracting new visitors to B.C.
Export Navigator: What is your professional background, and how did that prepare you to work as an Export Advisor?
Denan: I was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, but grew up in Toronto. I attended York University, where I completed both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in political science.
I’ve worked in both the public and private sectors. After graduating, I joined Global Affairs Canada for several years, during which time, I worked with Indigenous communities in Canada, Asia, Africa and the Middle East. I then took on the role of economic development consultant for the Government of South Africa, and later continued consulting work in Canada.
Before coming to Export Navigator, I spent two years as the Director for Economic Development for Ginoogaming First Nation, who are connected to the Matawa Tribal Council. I worked directly with First Nations Chiefs and councils and gained a lot of ‘on the ground’ experience.
Through the years, I’ve developed a strong understanding of Indigenous economic growth and international trade, both of which are essential to my job as an Export Advisor.
Export Navigator: What do you look for in a business to determine if they are ready to grow beyond B.C.?
Denan: Entrepreneurs with a strong business plan are often great candidates for this program. I look for businesses that have high quality products or services that consumers outside of B.C. would find appealing; if a business is selling to a local market, there is potential to scale. As an Export Advisor, I can help entrepreneurs recognize new markets, clients and revenue opportunities.
That said, I work with a lot of people who are still in the ideation stage. These clients have a strong concept for their business and an idea of the products or services they want to sell but haven’t started yet. If that business idea is suitable for growth, then Export Navigator can support with referrals to key resources, such as Small Business BC, to help develop a business plan and grow the company.
Export Navigator: How would you describe your advising style/approach to working with clients?
Denan: In a few words, I would say open-minded, friendly and accessible. I encourage my clients to consider me as part of their in-house team.
I try to prioritize relationship-building. I like face-to-face meetings that help me get to know my clients. For most small business owners, the typical 9-5 schedule doesn’t work, so I try to make myself available on their schedule, including evenings and weekends. The ability to be a knowledgeable resource when business owners need me most is very important to me.
For many clients, our working relationship begins with education. I work with business owners to develop an export plan, help them locate funding for export promotion and development and connect them to services that will drive their business’s growth.
Exporting can be a long-term process, but it is immensely rewarding when one of my clients lands a deal, especially internationally.
Export Navigator: Aside from being an Export Advisor, what else do you like to do in your free time?
Denan: I moved to B.C. about six months ago, and I really enjoy the outdoor activities that the West Coast offers. I spend most of my time hiking, boating, fishing and playing soccer and volleyball.
When not enjoying the outdoors, I like reading and playing guitar – I love music.
Export Navigator: What’s your best advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?
Denan: Don’t give up. In many cases, entrepreneurs fail because they think they’re alone in their journey. You aren’t alone. Export Navigator is here to help you, with a range of services and expert knowledge provided free of charge.
Always keep your eye on your goals and dreams. If you have a strong sense of determination and a clear vision for where you hope your business will grow, it is possible to achieve great things.
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Thinking of exporting? Find an advisor in your region today and discover what opportunities are available to you.
