Local Young Entrepreneur Scores Support from Gretzky
Charlottetown PEI - August 10, 2004
In late 2003 young franchisee Mark Duffy received support for his new business, Esporta Wash Systems Inc. (Esporta), from hockey's greatest father Walter Gretzky and the Canadian Youth Business Foundation (CYBF). As a spokesperson for Esporta, Mr. Gretzky came to Charlottetown to help Duffy promote his business to the local community. The CYBF provided financing and mentorship for Duffy to open the business.
Now a year later, Duffy is having continued success by offering this innovative affordable equipment washing service to PEI organizations and residents through his drop off zones located across the island in Charlottetown, Summerside, Alberton, Montague, and Souris.
Contracts with the PEI Rocket hockey team and the Charlottetown Fire Department highlight Duffy's achievements and warrants ongoing positive responses from clients. "The PEI Rockets Trainer, Kevin Elliot, said he would recommend our services to every level and every age," explains Duffy. "Even the players comment on how awesome it is to put on clean gear."
"Typically it is the hockey moms who try their best to clean the sporting equipment. Our services go beyond what a home washing machine can accomplish. Our specialized machines ensure the equipment is free of harmful bacteria, fungus or mold. explains Duffy. "I am proud to be one of 115 Esporta operators across North America and to offer this service in PEI at an affordable price."
"CYBF is proud to support young entrepreneurs who utilize innovative products and services", explains Vivian Woytiuk, CEO of CYBF. "Duffy has found the opportunity to provide a much needed new service to his own community and we praise him for this."
Duffy first heard about the company on a news program about hockey players who suffer from skin irritations. "I found the concept of Esporta to be really interesting. I immediately checked them out on the Internet and later contacted them about being an operator," comments Duffy.
This was only the beginning for 26-year-old Duffy, as he needed to secure financing to purchase an Esporta ES3250 system and set up a storefront. "I opened the business in September 2003 with a startup loan and mentorship from the Canadian Youth Business Foundation," comments Duffy. "They were instrumental in setting up my business."
Young business hopefuls, 18-34 years old with a complete business plan are encouraged to contact CYBF's community partner in Summerside, CEED PEI Inc. for more information on starting a business.
About Esporta Wash Systems Inc. (Esporta)
Esporta Wash Systems Inc, founded in Kelowna BC in 1998, improves the quality of life for athletes and uniformed workers through the care and attention needed to ensure their equipment is safe and free of any harmful bacteria, fungus or mold.
About Canadian Youth Business Foundation (CYBF)
The Canadian Youth Business Foundation is the national leader in youth entrepreneurship through mentorship and financial support resulting in sustainable economic development.
For More Information:
Mark Duffy
Owner & Operator
Esporta Wash Systems Inc.
902.367.3310
esportapei@eastlink.ca
www.esporta.ca
Jaime Hurlbut
Communication Specialist
Canadian Youth Business Foundation
1.866.646.2922 ext 2301
jhurlbut@cybf.ca
www.cybf.ca
Bill Martin
CEO
CEED PEI Inc.
902.436.7200
bmartin@ceedpei.com
www.ceedpei.com
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