The Comox Valley Small Business Association hosts a 5 p.m. meeting Thursday, Sept. 4 at the Filberg Centre, lower level Evergreen Room. Networking is from 5-5:30 p.m., followed by the educational portion until 6:30. The meeting will end by 7 p.m.

鈥淲e have adjusted the time for our meetings to encourage more people to come out," said Carolyn Touhey, volunteer marketing director for the SBA. "With an earlier start and end time, we hope more young entrepreneurs, who may have to be home for dinner and homework with children, will be able to join the group. Or, those who want to come right from work or just don鈥檛 want to be out past 8 p.m., especially in the winter, may find the new time slot more appealing.鈥�

The guest speaker is Lee-Ann Dixon of 98.9 The GOAT presenting on Why Choose Radio? Bring any question you might have for Lee-Ann.

The spotlight speaker will be Maxine LeFlour of Life Matters Asset Management.

There is no charge to attend the meeting as a guest for up to two meetings per year.

Yearly dues to join the group are $95.

The SBA 鈥� in its 17th year 鈥� meets on the first and third Thursdays of the month, except December, July and August.

Members are not obligated to attend twice a month, as with other groups that have attendance requirements. Monthly attendance is an option.

For guests and members alike, door prizes are welcomed and encouraged as an additional way to expose individual businesses, via announcements at the meeting and newsletter acknowledgement.

There are a variety of marketing opportunities for members. The website and Facebook page accept posts. Members can also gain visibility through sponsorships and participation on committees, the board, and in events such as the Canada Day parade.

Membership in the SBA is open to all small businesses.