Written by Evelyn Mytka, contributing writer
Victor Yan knows firsthand how difficult it can be for small businesses to find the right tech support, especially when they don’t have the budget for a full-time IT team. That’s why, after 25 years in the industry, he launched VYINGS: a Calgary-based business offering affordable, professional IT services and fractional IT leadership to small businesses and non-profits.
Victor is no stranger to challenges or community service. A long-time volunteer with organizations like Calgary Catholic Immigration Society and the Boys and Girls Club, he’s always looked for ways to help others – now, he’s doing the same through his business. We spoke with Victor about his path to entrepreneurship, his goals, and his advice for others thinking of starting their own business.
“I noticed how many small and medium-sized businesses and non-profits struggled to find the IT support they needed.”
Evelyn: Tell us a bit about yourself and how VYINGS got started.
Victor: I’ve been in the IT field for over 25 years, with 15 of those in senior leadership roles across a variety of industries and company sizes. Although VYINGS is a newly launched brand, I’ve helped many companies over the years through my previous leadership roles. From reducing IT costs and modernizing infrastructure to improving cybersecurity and streamlining operations.
Over the years, I noticed how many small and medium-sized businesses and non-profits struggled to find the IT support they needed. Most don’t have the resources to hire a full-time IT professional, and when they search online, they’re often met with high-cost service providers who won’t take on smaller clients.
That’s what inspired me to start VYINGS. We offer fractional IT leadership; executive-level IT support without the full-time cost. I wanted to make it easier for small businesses to access the kind of strategic technology planning that bigger companies take for granted.
“It’s everything a business would get from a full-time IT lead, just on a flexible, affordable basis.”
Evelyn: What kinds of services do you offer?
Victor: We focus on two main areas. The first is fractional IT leadership. That includes strategic planning, technology forecasting, contract optimization, and identifying and removing technical roadblocks. It’s everything a business would get from a full-time IT lead, just on a flexible, affordable basis.
The second is what I call “Tech Workshops.” These are one-time sessions where we help with immediate issues or projects – things like troubleshooting, recommending the right software, or helping businesses decide between platforms.
“A lot of business owners aren’t sure what’s best for them, and that’s where I come in.”
Evelyn: What do small businesses usually need the most help with?
Victor: Strategic planning is a big one, especially choosing the right tools. Something as simple as deciding between Office 365 and Google Workspace can make a big difference depending on the business. A lot of business owners aren’t sure what’s best for them, and that’s where I come in.
Cybersecurity is another big concern. Many small business owners think they’re too small to be targeted, but phishing scams are everywhere. Even if you’re not a target, you can still get caught in the trap, so I help businesses protect themselves from those kinds of risks.
“Building trust takes time, and that can be tough when you’re just starting out.”
Evelyn: What have been some of the biggest challenges for you as a new entrepreneur?
Victor: Definitely networking. Even though I’ve been in leadership roles before, I’m not a natural networker. I’ve had to push myself to attend events and talk to people. But it’s been worth it – connecting with other business owners has helped me learn and shift my mindset.
Finding clients is another challenge. Building trust takes time, and that can be tough when you’re just starting out. But I’m starting to get more clients now, and they’ve been really happy with my work. That’s been encouraging.
“Marketing, branding, positioning – that was all new territory for me.”
Evelyn: How did you find out about Business Link, and how have we supported you in starting your business?
Victor: I actually found Business Link through a Google search, and I’m so glad I did. The support has been incredible, especially for someone like me who’s spent my whole career in IT. Marketing, branding, positioning – that was all new territory for me. The personalized marketing advice I received helped me understand how to present my business and reach the right audience. Business Link also supported me with secondary market research, which gave me insight into the landscape I’m working in. It was really valuable to see what’s out there and start thinking more strategically.
What stood out most, though, is how much Business Link genuinely helps small business owners like me. It’s not just about giving information, it’s about bridging the gaps and helping us build confidence.
“It’s all about sharing resources”
Evelyn: What’s next for VYINGS?
Victor: Right now, I’m continuing to build relationships and expand my network. I’ve been reaching out to vendors and people I worked with in the past, and I recently connected with some other fractional leaders, like a fractional CEO and CFO. I really believe this “fractional” model is the future for small businesses – it’s all about sharing resources, like we see with Uber or Airbnb. You don’t always need to hire someone full-time when you can bring in experts as needed.
I recently partnered with the Electronic Recycling Association (ERA) as a brand ambassador. I’ve been donating used tech through ERA for over 15 years to help extend the life of devices and support communities in need. It’s another way I’m committed to making a positive impact through technology.
“Failure is the fastest way to learn and improve, so take that first step.”
Evelyn: What advice would you give to someone thinking about starting their own business?
Victor: Just do it. I’ve seen so many people hesitate. They have great ideas but find reasons not to take action. It’s easy to make excuses, but at some point you just have to go for it. Don’t be afraid to fail. Failure is the fastest way to learn and improve, so take that first step and learn as you go. Just do it.
Learn more about VYINGS at vyings.com or connect with Victor on LinkedIn.
Victor’s story is a great example of how the right support and determination can help small businesses get off the ground. Interested in starting your own small business? Business Link’s team of experts can help. Book a free appointment with a Business Link advisor.
