We’re excited to celebrate the grand opening of Meeko Supermarket on January 17, 2025! As one of our valued clients, we’re proud to have played a role in supporting them with the financial backing needed to bring this business to life.

Meeko Supermarket is a fantastic addition to our community, offering a wide range of quality products, including international goods from across the globe. Whether you’re looking for specialty ingredients, fresh produce, or everyday essentials, Meeko provides a diverse selection that meets the needs of our multicultural community. Their commitment to exceptional service and unique product offerings makes them a standout in the local market.

Their success is a direct reflection of the dedication and entrepreneurial spirit that drive positive change in our region. We are honored to support businesses like Meeko Supermarket and look forward to seeing them continue to grow and thrive in the years ahead.

Community Futures Wood Buffalo (CFWB) was honoured to give back to the youth of our community on January 12, 2025, in celebration of the 2024 holiday season.The event brought together parents and youth for an afternoon of engagement, learning, and celebration.

As part of the event, all Youth were invited to explore the CFWB website to find information relevant to their interests. They quickly shared their findings, sparking meaningful discussions. Parents also engaged in the activity, exploring the site themselves and discovering new resources. The interactive session created a positive, engaging environment where everyone—both youth and adults—was encouraged to explore and connect with CFWB’s services. Several attendees expressed interest in following up with us for further information and support.

In the spirit of giving, each participant received a thoughtful gift from CFWB, along with a snack. This gesture of appreciation was our way of giving back to the community and spreading cheer.

CFWB is dedicated to fostering positive change and creating opportunities for youth in Wood Buffalo, and we are proud to continue supporting our community with events like these. Together, we are building a brighter future for the next generation.

The 4Pillars of Innovation and Entrepreneurship program is an exciting initiative designed to foster entrepreneurship and support sustainable business practices within the Wood Buffalo Region.

This project aims to educate, inspire, and empower local entrepreneurs, helping them integrate innovative, eco-friendly practices into their business models. 

Business Coaching and One-on-One Support

In addition to group training, the project provides personalized business coaching through one-on-one assistance with professional service providers.

This will enable entrepreneurs to have support as they integrate sustainable practices into their operations which offer tailored solutions that will align with their specific business goals.

New business opportunities create a forward thinking economy that benefits the Wood Buffalo region and the environment for generations to come.

Want to learn more?

Email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or give us a call at (780) 791-0330.

Step into the future of business at Business Innovation Showcase!

This exciting event will be held on October 23, 2024, at the Quality Hotel and Conference Center in Fort McMurray, AB. It’s your opportunity to explore groundbreaking innovations, connect with industry leaders, and gain insights into the trends shaping tomorrow’s business world.

Keynote Speaker: Community Futures is proud to present the honorable Sandy Bowman, the Mayor of Fort McMurray, as he shares his vision for the future of business in our local community.

Panel Discussions: Engage in thought-provoking discussions with experts on emerging trends such as AI integration, vertical farming, and digital transformation. Learn how these innovations are influencing industries and creating new opportunities.

Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders. Exchange ideas, build partnerships, and explore potential collaborations in a dynamic and engaging environment.

More details to come ...

We believe in Women Entrepreneurs. Offering flexible low-interest small business loans, ongoing support and advice for women entrepreneurs in rural Alberta.

What Makes This Loan Unique?

Women entrepreneurs will be able to apply for unsecured conditionally repayable loans ranging from $10,000 to $75,000.

Flexible Small Business Loans for Women Entrepreneurs Starting at $10,000

Access low-interest loans designed specifically for women entrepreneurs, and offering flexible repayments options and forgivable loan portions if conditions are met.

Apply for personalized financing from $10,000 up to $75,000, giving you the freedom you need to reach your goals.

A Team of Experts By Your Side

Grow your skills as a small business owner and receive ongoing support from local business experts in your community.

Community Futures small business supports are tailored to fit your needs and schedule. Get access to trusted advisors that can help you gain the skills and training you need to start and grow your small business.

How we support you:

• Connect with other local business owners and build your network.
• Access and explore resources and meet with a Business Advisor you can trust to talk about your business goals.
• Receive ongoing small business support and opportunities to develop your skills, manage your business and plan for the future.

We are the first stop for new entrepreneurs and existing small businesses in rural Alberta.

https://albertacf.com/services/capital-growth-initiative-loan

In celebration of International Youth Day, we are thrilled to announce the return of our highly anticipated Entrepreneurs of Tomorrow Business Program! Starting August 23, this program is set to empower and inspire the next generation of business leaders with innovative ideas and entrepreneurial spirit.

International Youth Day is a momentous occasion to recognize the vital role young people play in shaping our future. This year, we want to honor the dynamic energy, creativity, and potential of our youth by offering them the tools and support they need to turn their business dreams into reality.

The Entrepreneurs of Tomorrow Business Program is designed to provide aspiring young entrepreneurs with hands-on experience, mentorship, and the skills necessary to navigate the world of business. From practical workshops to one-on-one mentoring sessions with industry leaders, participants will gain invaluable insights and build the confidence to launch and sustain their ventures.

As we kick off this exciting program, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the mentors, sponsors, and partners who make this initiative possible. Your support is crucial in nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit of our youth and helping them achieve their goals.

Join us as we celebrate International Youth Day by investing in the entrepreneurs of tomorrow. Together, we can pave the way for a brighter, more innovative future.

🌟 Exciting news for young minds in the Wood Buffalo community! 🌟

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our five-week virtual after-school program, proudly supported by Community Futures Wood Buffalo and the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo. Starting on November 02, 2023, every Thursday from 4:00 to 5:00 pm, we're inviting young innovators aged 7 to 18 to embark on a transformative journey into the world of entrepreneurship.

Why Join Our Program?

At Community Futures Wood Buffalo, we believe in nurturing the seeds of entrepreneurship from a young age. Our carefully curated program is designed to instill essential skills and ignite a passion for business within the youth of our community. Here's what your child can expect to learn during these engaging sessions:

1. Entrepreneurship: Uncover the exciting world of entrepreneurship, exploring innovative ideas and learning how to turn them into successful ventures.
2. Business Planning: Master the art of strategic planning, laying the foundation for a robust and sustainable business model.
3. Money Management: Gain valuable insights into financial literacy, teaching kids the importance of budgeting, saving, and investing.
4. Marketing 101: Delve into the fundamentals of marketing, discovering creative ways to promote products and services effectively.
5. Customer Service: Learn the art of providing exceptional customer service, a vital skill for any successful entrepreneur.

Our Commitment to Youth Empowerment:

This program is more than just a series of classes; it's a commitment to fostering entrepreneurial growth and empowering the youth of our community. By providing these invaluable skills, we aim to inspire confidence and creativity, preparing our young participants to navigate the business world with ease.

How to Enroll:

Enrollment is open to all kids aged 7 to 18 who are eager to explore the world of entrepreneurship. To secure your child's spot in this exciting program, visit https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/entrepreneurs-of-tomorrow-virtual-business-program-tickets-741705319577?aff=oddtdtcreator.

Join Us in Shaping the Future:

We invite parents, guardians, and, most importantly, young entrepreneurs to join us on this enriching journey. Together, let's unleash the potential within our youth, shaping the future leaders and innovators of Wood Buffalo.

For more information and to enroll your child, please contact us at [contact information] or visit our website at [website link]. Let's embark on this entrepreneurial adventure together! 🌟🚀

Follow us on [social media handles] for program updates, success stories, and inspiring moments. Join the conversation using #YouthEntrepreneursWoodBuffalo. 🌱💡

What is CDAP?

The Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP), by the Government of Canada, helps small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) adopt digital technologies to increase their competitiveness. Eligible businesses will receive a grant² to build their digital plan, followed by a 0% loan of up to $100,000¹ to implement it.

What does it cover?

The loan covers items directly related to the digital plan. Some examples are:

• Acquiring IT equipment
• Installation of new technologies
• Updating and/or expanding IT equipment
• Training staff on onboarded technologies
• Materials and support services directly related to onboarding the technology
• Further advisory services on particular aspects of the digital adoption plan

To apply visit:

https://www.bdc.ca/en/canada-digital-adoption-program

Community Futures Wood Buffalo is a non-profit organization that’s dedicated to building an economically diverse future for the communities of our beautiful region.

Our services for small businesses are designed to help Wood Buffalo residents start, grow, expand, franchise, or sell their business.

With a number of specialized business training programs, regular business networking events, and flexible business loans on offer, we’re here to help you achieve your business goals.