Frequently Asked Questions
It is a community-driven, non-profit organization staffed by business professionals and guided by a volunteer Board of Directors. Located in Red Deer, CFCA provides small business services, including loans, coaching, and training, specifically designed to foster rural economic growth in the Central Alberta region.
Services are primarily designed for entrepreneurs and small business owners living and operating in rural Central Alberta. This includes those starting a new venture, expanding an existing one, or looking to buy/sell a business.
During a free consultation, you’ll meet with a Business Advisor who will discuss your goals, review your business needs, and outline available support programs and loan options.
We offer a variety of flexible loan products, including:
Small Business Loans: Loans up to $500,000 to start, purchase or expand a business
Kick Start Youth Loans: Aimed at younger entrepreneurs up to 34 years old for students, side-hustles or full-time entrepreneurs. Loans can range from $3,000 - $25,000.
Flex Loans: Smaller loans up to $25,000 with less paperwork for things like marketing, equipment, or renovations.
We provide free workshops, business planning and coaching as well as programs such as:
- Launch Pad series help entrepreneurs define their vision, analyze competitors, and create a polished, professional business plan.
- Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP)? The EDP is a specialized program for individuals with self-disclosed disabilities or ongoing health conditions. Qualifying clients can access funding for business coaching or training to help them become successful business owners.
Yes, they support the next generation through programs like the Rotary Alberta Youth Entrepreneurship Camp, which teaches youth aged 13–15 the basics of brainstorming and launching a business in a team setting.
Yes. They help businesses with planning, loan services, marketing strategy guidance, and training programs to help owners scale their operations.
Yes. Community Futures partner offices are proud to announce the launch of ExitNavigator, an initiative designed to support rural Alberta business owners seeking to sell or transition their company. ExitNavigator is a collaborative effort between Alberta Community Futures organizations and the social enterprise VentureConnect. Additionally, it will also serve Alberta entrepreneurs who would like to purchase an existing business. Services include business consultations, valuations, mediation, business loans, and other transition-related support for companies located outside the major metropolitan areas of Calgary and Edmonton.
Community Futures Central Alberta is funded by Prairies Economic Diversification Canada, as a part of the larger Community Futures organization. Community Futures of Canada has been supporting small business and rural economic diversification since 1986, and now has 267 offices across the country.
Staffed by seasoned business professionals, and guided by a volunteer Board of Directors, we’re more than just a business lender. With over 35 years of experience helping rural entrepreneurs grow and thrive as small business owners, we understand where you are now, and where you want to go in the future.
Our services for small businesses are designed to help Central Alberta 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.
We serve a wide region including over 40 central Alberta communities. Visit albertacf.com/contact-us to find out more about our service area.
No. You can access business coaching and planning services without being a loan client. The team can help you develop your plan even if you don’t seek financing.
It’s recommended to invest your own resources alongside loan or external funds. A mix of personal equity and financing generally increases the chance of success.
You can subscribe to their quarterly e-newsletter for news, program updates, and business resources.
