BDC Sudbury hits milestone achievement after 50 years in business, we're going stronger than ever.

• Position: CORPORATE PROFILE

The Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) Sudbury Branch office is celebrating 50 years of providing financing and consulting services to entrepreneurs.

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When the Industrial Development Bank opened its doors to entrepreneurs in Sudbury and the surrounding area on May 13, 1960, its mission was to provide unique, custom-tailored services to small and medium-sized businesses.

Although its name has changed, BDC remains committed to helping create and develop businesses through its financing, venture capital and consulting services.

"We're not a formula-driven lender," said Tim Whalen, District Manager, BDC Sudbury. "We are very creative and flexible in our approach."

BDC Consulting is one key area where the bank differs from traditional lending institutions.

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"Our consulting group is consistently rated among the best in the country in terms of customer satisfaction," said Whalen. "We deliver top-notch, professional advice at a price companies can afford."

BDC Sudbury has demonstrated an unrivaled ability to find custom-made solutions for clients, based on a desire to establish and foster strong working relationships. The proof that this approach works for entrepreneurs is the large number of loyal clients who return to BDC Sudbury when they want to launch a new project or find advice on improving their company's operations.

The branch's staff of 12 people "rolls up its sleeves" to find solutions for entrepreneurs, including those in key sectors such as: manufacturing, construction, transportation/ communications/storage, wholesale and business services. Retail clients have also reaped the benefits of BDC's services.

Many Sudbury clients have used the bank's financing and consulting services for more than 20 years.

Tony Yaroshak, President and CEO of Stainless Steel Technology, is a long-standing client who praised BDC as a valuable contributor to the success of his business.

"We certainly would not have reached the goals and success we've come to enjoy without their assistance."

France Dubois Hnatiuk, Controller of B & D Manufacturing, highlighted BDC's style of doing business.

"BDC is more than just a lending institution; they are a trusted partner for both our financing and consulting needs. Since the beginning, we have felt that BDC did not' put us in a box. Instead, they adopted a unique approach to each challenge we put before them."

"At BDC; we are energized by our clients' success stories,"...