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Applications Closing Soon

New entrepreneurial training program set to launch

Jan 22, 2021 | 3:22 PM

Community Futures Centra Alberta, in partnership with the Central Alberta Regional Innovation Network (CARIN), is launching a new program for entrepreneurs in the community to provide residents with access to business training and mentorship support.

The purpose of the SMARTstart program, according to officials, is to provide real-world business skills, access to tailor-made advice, and to create a support network to increase the chance of new businesses surviving those first crucial years.

Over the past seven years, SMARTstart has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs in communities throughout Alberta launch or expand their business ideas.

Officials note small businesses face the challenge of simply making it beyond the three to five-year mark at only a 35 per cent success rate. But with proper training and resources, 80-90 per cent of those businesses are expected to succeed beyond five years.

“We are excited to participate in the success of the SMARTstart program with our upcoming launch in Red Deer and Central Alberta which will provide opportunities for learning, networking, and mentorship to small business owners in our region,” said Kelly Kierluk, General Manager, Community Futures Central Alberta, in a press release. “This will in turn contribute to economic development and strengthening our local economy.”

Anyone with a business idea, a recent launch or who have been in business for less than three years may be eligible for the program.

Over the course of eight months, the entrepreneurs will complete a combination of online training and in-person workshops facilitated by local experts.

Each participant will leave the program with a complete business plan, feasibility study or strategic plan they have created along with their mentor to set their business up for success.

“The Land and Economic Development team at the City of Red Deer is pleased to be a title sponsor to Red Deer’s SMARTstart program along with Community Futures and CARIN,” added John Sennema, Land and Economic Development Manager for the City of Red Deer. “It already has a proven history of increasing success for new entrepreneurs in many communities. Red Deer is rich with innovation and entrepreneurs; we welcome the tools that will allow these business leaders to succeed in adding diversity and fresh ideas into the Alberta economic landscape.”

The total cost of SMARTstart for the introductory launch is only $199. Officials say participants can expect to spend between 10-15 hours per month on the program.

Community Futures Central Alberta is also looking to hear from any candidates interested in being a mentor.

Jodie Eckert is the SMARTstart Mentor Coordinator. She said, “SMARTstart mentors tell us they get just as much from the program as the entrepreneurs. It reignites that creative enthusiasm they had when they started their business.”

SMARTstart is described as a chance for experienced business owners to share their wisdom, business expertise, and lessons learned with entrepreneurs who are just getting into the game.

Small business owner in their first three years or an entrepreneur who needs their ideas transformed into action, are encouraged to apply. Applications will close on Jan. 29, 2021.

More information on the program including how to register can be found at: SMARTstart Red Deer – Smart Start Your Business.