Business Support

Resource Links

Resources:

Tools:

Workforce Development Opportunities

  • Apprenticeship Incentive Grant for Women – To further support women in entering, progressing, and completing their training in Red Seal trades where women are underrepresented. The Apprenticeship Incentive Grant for Women (AIG-W) is a taxable cash grant of $3,000 per year/level (or equivalent) up to a maximum amount of $6,000 per person. Additional Apprenticeship Grants include:

Market Research

Resources for local businesses:

Newly introduced financial relief measures for affected Albertans:

Government of Canada updates:


Useful Links:

General Business

  • SME Direct – Gain access to a wealth of small business information available through Industry Canada.
  • com Small Business Planning Centre – In-depth site of how to start a business.
  • ENTERWeb – Quality source of information on small business, finance, community development, international trade, entrepreneurship, enterprise development, and the economy.
  • GoForth Institute – If you’re looking to bolster your understanding of how to start, run or grow a successful and profitable business, learn GoForth Institute’s 100 Essential Small Business Skills™ in only 10 hours conveniently delivered to your computer through streaming video and an option 400+ page resource curriculum book.
  • Workink – An online career development AND employment portal for Canadians with disabilities.

Employment

Youth Entrepreneurship

  • BDC Entrepreneurs First – Business Development Bank of Canada’s entrepreneurship opportunities.
  • Futurpreneur – Assisting young entrepreneurs to get their ideas off the ground, Youth Business offers programs and services that allow them to achieve economic independence, develop self-confidence, and fulfill their goals of self-employment.
  • The Youth Entrepreneur’s Network – An online community that supports the needs of young entrepreneurs from around the world as they attempt to build and thrive in their own businesses

Indigenous Resources

Business

Youth Entrepreneurship

Community Economic Development

Alberta Innovates Tech Business Assistance

Government of Alberta

Government of Canada

Entrepreneurs with Disabilities

Francophone Economic Development Organization

Business Education & Other Resources

Community

Consulting / Partnering

Looking for professional business advice? With over 30 years of experience helping small business owners and entrepreneurs in the Lethbridge area achieve success, the team of professional business advisors at Community Futures Lethbridge Region is here to support you every step of the way.

Whether you’re a new business owner looking to launch your venture or an established business seeking guidance on growth and expansion, we’ve got you covered. Our consulting services are designed to provide one-on-one support and customized solutions tailored to your unique business needs.

For new business owners, we offer a range of services to help you get started on the road to success. Our experienced advisors can assist with writing your business plan, conducting feasibility studies, and securing financing. We can also provide guidance on hiring your first employees, exploring government grants and loans, and developing effective marketing strategies. Additionally, we offer networking opportunities to connect you with like-minded entrepreneurs and local business leaders.

For established businesses, we can provide detailed guidance on how to scale your operations successfully, conduct feasibility studies for new business ideas, and explore options for exporting your products or services.

Our advisors can also help you identify applicable business loans and government grants to help you improve or expand your operations as well as training on how to develop new marketing strategies, find new premises to rent, and so much more. We’re here to provide the support and guidance you need to take your business to the next level.

Contact us today to schedule your free business consulting session and let us help you achieve your goals!

Training & Programs

At Community Futures Lethbridge Region, we are a non-profit organization dedicated to helping small rural businesses like yours thrive in our community. Our team of business professionals and consultants is passionate about providing the support and resources you need to succeed.

One of the ways we support rural businesses is through our specialized business training programs. We offer a wide range of courses and workshops designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to take your enterprise to the next level. Whether you’re a startup or an established business, our programs can help you overcome common obstacles and achieve your goals.

Our business training programs cover a diverse range of topics, from marketing and accounting to. Whether one on one or in a group setting, our marketing seminars can teach you how to effectively promote your business and reach new customers, while our accounting workshops can help you understand the basics of financial management.

Our team of community-driven professionals is committed to providing high-quality, accessible training programs for rural businesses across the region. We understand the unique challenges faced by rural entrepreneurs, and our programs are tailored to meet those needs. Whether you’re looking to expand your skills or acquire new ones, we have the resources and expertise you need to succeed.

Our goal is to help your business thrive in our community. By taking advantage of our business training programs, loans, and more, you can acquire the resources, skills, and knowledge you need to succeed, and position your business for long-term growth and success. Contact us today to learn more about our small business programs and start your journey towards success!

Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program

We understand that achieving your entrepreneurial dreams can be challenging, especially when facing health conditions or barriers that may not be visible. That’s why Community Futures Lethbridge Region offers the Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP), an innovative initiative dedicated to helping individuals like you start and grow businesses. With our comprehensive support system, including loans, training, mentoring, and financial assistance, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

As a participant in the Entrepreneurs with Disability Program, you’ll gain access to a range of valuable resources. Benefit from personalized one-on-one business coaching, providing tailored guidance to help you navigate the intricacies of entrepreneurship. Explore loan options designed to support your business’s financial needs. Enhance your skills through specialized technology training, empowering you to leverage the latest tools and innovations. Additionally, we prioritize your mental wellness by offering access to resources that promote overall well-being.

To be eligible for the Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program you must:

  • Have a self-disclosed disability or ongoing health condition
  • Live in rural Alberta
  • Have a viable business idea
  • Be able to contribute in some way to your business

Don’t let barriers hold you back from achieving your entrepreneurial aspirations. Community Futures is dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities to build successful businesses. Contact us today to learn more about the Entrepreneurs with Disability Program and take the first step towards transforming your business dreams into reality.


CONTACT FORM

"*" indicates required fields

Name*
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Looking To Appeal a Decision?

If you applied for a loan with us and the loan application was declined, you do have the ability to appeal the decision.

For more information about this process, please click here.