Sizzling In The City with Erin Rayner

Sizzling Serial Entrepreneur

There are a few ways that I get in touch with my love for this city: One is a sunset run through the River Valley… another is connecting with people who choose to live and do business here because they believe in this city. Chris Curtola, a serial entrepreneur, is definitely an enthusiastic supporter Edmonton.

Chris and I caught up over a glass of wine and discussed where he’s been since his 2005 designation as an Edmontonians Sizzling Twenty under 30. At the time, he was a 26 year old who had already collected a bevy of experiences including being a real estate investor, Toronto advertising executive, and part owner of a west end hot spot called Dante’s Bistro.

In 2007, after burning the candle at both ends, Chris and his three Dante’s partners were considering a change in focus. “The restaurant industry is consuming,” Chris says. The nightclub needed a fresh look, which would require a substantial capital investment. The owners agreed selling the business was the right choice for them.

Chris took some time to travel and visit family—including his father, music legend Bobby Curtola and his brother Mike in Vancouver. While Chris is still investing in real estate (Cena Developments Inc.), reconnecting with family has led to new ventures. One is Exclusive Signs, a Vancouver-based partnership project with Mike installing real estate signs. He’s also gone back to his family’s musical roots. “Grow up in the music business and you grow up with music in your blood,” he says. Consequently, he and his dad have started a new entertainment company with Chris managing Bobby’s career.

Business isn’t the only driving force in Chris’ life—leaving the restaurant industry has also allowed him to devote more time with Junior Chamber International. He has been a member for eight years but, working 90 hours a week at Dante’s, had limited his ability to participate. Now, he’s the executive vice-president. JCI’s mandate is to “empower young leaders to create positive change and be better”. It is a premiere young person’s organization that blends business-building through monthly networking meetings and training opportunities with social responsibility and community involvement. Although the group also provides hands-on volunteer support to charities, Chris points out that “typically, we donate between $10 000 and $30 000 (a year) to various organizations in the Edmonton area.”

When asked what makes it different from other service clubs, Chris answers, “JCI is bigger than a service club or networking group—JayCee is a way of life.”

Apparently it is a way of life that many others in the 18 to 40 age-range are interested in. Three years ago, JCI Edmonton had 40 members, now membership tops 120. Chris credits a strong and dedicated board, as well as strategic partnerships with local organizations to host events showcasing the personal and professional benefits of JCI.