About GadflyZX
Empowering small businesses and freelancers with practical solutions since 2015
Our Story
GadflyZX was founded in 2015 by Jennifer Mercer, a seasoned accountant who recognized that small businesses and freelancers were underserved by traditional consulting firms. After spending 15 years in corporate finance, Jennifer witnessed how small business owners struggled with complex financial systems, tax regulations, and marketing strategies that were designed for larger enterprises.
What began as a one-person operation in a small office in downtown Winnipeg has grown into a dedicated team of professionals who share a common vision: making business operations simple and accessible for entrepreneurs. The name "GadflyZX" was chosen to represent our role as positive disruptors in the consulting industry – challenging conventional approaches and advocating for simpler, more effective solutions.
In 2018, we expanded our services beyond accounting to include grant writing and digital marketing support, recognizing that modern entrepreneurs need comprehensive solutions. By 2020, we had helped over 500 small businesses throughout Manitoba optimize their operations, secure funding, and establish effective online presences.
Today, GadflyZX continues to evolve with the changing business landscape while staying true to our founding principles of accessibility, practicality, and personalized service for small business owners and freelancers.
Our Mission & Values
Guiding principles that shape everything we do
Our Mission
To empower small businesses and freelancers with practical, accessible solutions that simplify operations, reduce stress, and create opportunities for sustainable growth. We believe that entrepreneurial success should not require a finance degree or a marketing team – just the right guidance and tools.
Our Vision
A business landscape where entrepreneurs of all backgrounds can thrive by focusing on their core strengths while having access to the financial and marketing expertise typically reserved for larger organizations. We envision a community of empowered small businesses contributing to local economic resilience.
Core Values
- Simplicity: We translate complex concepts into practical, understandable solutions.
- Accessibility: We provide expertise that fits within the budget constraints of small businesses.
- Empowerment: We teach and enable rather than create dependency.
- Integrity: We provide honest advice even when it's not what clients expect to hear.
- Innovation: We constantly adapt our approaches to changing business environments.
Meet Our Team
The passionate professionals behind GadflyZX
Jennifer Mercer
Founder & CEO
With 20+ years of experience in financial management and business consulting, Jennifer leads our team with insight and passion. Her background in both corporate finance and entrepreneurship gives her a unique perspective on the challenges facing small business owners.
Marcus Chen
Tax & Grants Specialist
Marcus brings 8 years of experience in tax planning and grant writing to our team. His methodical approach to navigating complex regulations has helped our clients secure over $3 million in funding and save countless dollars on their tax obligations.
Sophia Rodriguez
Digital Marketing Director
Sophia's background in digital marketing spans both agency and in-house roles. Her specialty is creating cost-effective marketing strategies that deliver measurable results for small businesses with limited budgets. She's passionate about helping local businesses build their online presence.
David Okonkwo
Client Success Manager
David ensures that every client receives personalized attention and comprehensive support. With a background in both small business operations and customer experience design, he creates systems that make working with GadflyZX seamless and productive for all our clients.
Our Achievements
The impact we've made since 2015
Clients Served
Small businesses and freelancers across Manitoba who have optimized their operations with our guidance.
Grants Secured
Total funding our clients have received through our grant application assistance and guidance.
Average Tax Savings
Typical reduction in tax liability for small businesses after implementing our tax planning strategies.
Client Retention
Percentage of clients who continue working with us after their first year, reflecting our commitment to long-term relationships.
Client Testimonials
What our clients say about working with us
GadflyZX transformed our chaotic bookkeeping system into something I actually understand. Their tax planning strategy saved us nearly $15,000 in our first year alone, and Jennifer's team guided us through securing a business expansion grant that we didn't even know we qualified for.
Amira Hassan
Owner, Aroma Cafe
As a freelance graphic designer, I was completely lost when it came to taxes and business finances. Marcus created a system that was actually easy for me to maintain, and their digital marketing guidance helped me attract higher-quality clients. My income increased by 40% in the first year working with them.
Trevor Wilson
Freelance Designer
The funding guidance we received was invaluable. GadflyZX helped us navigate government grant applications that secured critical early-stage capital for our startup. Their hands-on approach and genuine interest in our success made all the difference. I recommend them to every entrepreneur I meet.
Priya Sharma
CEO, InnovateTech Solutions
Our Work in Action
Glimpses of our office, events, and client collaborations
Ready to Simplify Your Business Operations?
Whether you're struggling with accounting, seeking funding opportunities, or looking to enhance your online presence, our team is here to help. Let's work together to streamline your business and create a path for sustainable growth.