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.

International Women’s Day, March 8, 2024.

This is a day for us to join voices with people around the world and shout our message for equal rights loud and clear: “Women’s rights are human rights!” We celebrate all women, in all their diversities. We embrace their facets and intersections of faith, race, ethnicity, gender or sexual identity, or disability. We celebrate those who came before us, those who stand beside us now, and those who will come after. It’s a time to celebrate the achievements of women, whether social, political, economic or cultural.

In celebraton of International Womens Day on March 8, 2024, Community Futures Wood Buffalo is pleased to present "Masterpiece in the Making - Leadership Essentials." This transformative event is powered by both Keyano College, and Colette Close from UpClose Team. Immerse yourself in two days of educational workshops and empowerment sessions, crafted to inspire and empower women in their personal and professional journeys.

Event Overview:

Day 1: Embracing the Growth Journey: Women Becoming Modern Leaders

Two available sessions for March 6, 2024:

• 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
• 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM

Description of the 2-hour workshop:

In today's rapidly evolving business environment, traditional leadership methods are no longer enough. Success now hinges on adaptability, empathy, resilience, and emotional intelligence. So, how do you navigate this new landscape? That's where we come in!

Join us for a 2-hour workshop designed specifically for women like you, ready to redefine leadership in this changing landscape.

Here's what you can expect:

🔹 Uncover various leadership styles and discover what it means to be a modern leader.

🔹 Dive deep into the key traits that are critical in today's leadership roles - adaptability, empathy, resilience, and emotional intelligence.

🔹 Gain insights into leading diverse teams and fostering an inclusive environment that encourages innovation.

🔹 Create a culture of continuous improvement and growth within your organization.

Don't miss this opportunity to take the first step toward a future of success and impact. Register now and embrace the journey of becoming a modern leader. The time is now, let's grow together!

Included in the workshop session is a manual and personality profile assessment

Day 2: Masterpiece in the Making: Drafting Your Lifestory

Two available sessions for March 7, 2024:

• 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
• 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM

Description of the 2-hour workshop:

Ever wondered why some people seem to get ahead while you're stuck in the same spot? Why opportunities seem to find them effortlessly?

Join us for an empowering 2-hour workshop that will transform the way you see yourself and your future. This isn't just an event, it's a journey of self-discovery and goal-setting that could set the course for the rest of your life.

In this workshop, you'll identify your deepest desires and set a definite major purpose for your life. Through guided self-reflection, you'll uncover any limiting stories that have been holding you back and learn how to rewrite your narrative in a more positive direction.

We'll equip you with the tools and strategies you need to not only prepare for but also achieve your desired goals. You'll discover how to spot opportunities and open doors that will make your dreams a reality.

Are you ready to take the first step towards crafting your masterpiece? Don't wait for "someday" to start living the life you want. The time is now.

Join us for the "Masterpiece in the Making - Draft Your Life Story" Workshop. Your masterpiece awaits!

Included in the workshop session is a manual and personality profile assessment

Day 3: One-on-One Coaching with Colette

On the final day, Colette Close will guide you through exercises to identify and articulate your narrative, enabling you to create a compelling and empowering life story. Day 3 will feature exclusive one-on-one appointments with Colette Close, providing you with personalized guidance tailored to your unique journey.

Appointments will be held from 9:00 AM to 2 PM

Event Highlights

🔹 Expert-led Workshops: Gain valuable insights from seasoned professionals and thought leaders in various fields.

🔹 Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded women, fostering a supportive community for personal and professional growth.

🔹 Empowerment Sessions: Engage in transformative sessions designed to boost confidence, resilience, and leadership skills.

🔹 Personalized Guidance: Exclusive one-on-one appointments with Colette Close on Day 3 to tailor the summit experience to your unique journey.

Secure your spot today and take the first step towards unleashing your full potential as a modern female leader!

Early Bird Special

Tickets purchased before February 25, 2023, are priced at $49.00, ensuring you access to this event at a special rate. After this date, ticket prices will increase to $59.00.

🌟 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.

With the world evolving into a place of technology, business and marketing tasks are evolving with it.

About this event

Canva is a powerful design tool that can be used to create projects and help teach entrepreneurs the basics of digital design. This free tool enables participants to work with photo editing and design layout all within an easy-to-use platform.

This Canva – “Crash Course” will walk through the various features Canva has to offer. Topics include but are not limited to:

• Marketing
• Digital Design
• Advertising

To begin the event participants will go through the process of creating a Canva account. Upon access to the platform, the facilitator will discuss the features associated with the design tool, followed by a 30-minute activity whereby the participants get to use the design platform on their own and will create a social media post about their business or future business idea.

To conclude the session, all participants will discuss something they have learned and will take back with them upon attendance.

This event will take place over Zoom and no materials other than laptops are needed to attend.

To register visit: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/canva-an-introduction-to-social-media-tickets-365967076377

For any questions please email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.