Resources

Explore our free resources for small business owners and entrepreneurs in Central Alberta.

• Business Plan Guide
• Cash Flow Template

Specialized Business Training:

• GoForth Institute – an online self-paced small business training program. The GoForth curriculum is included as part of SMARTstart, a new entrepreneur training program.
• Business Link - offers webinars and online training on a variety of business topics such as incorporation, bookkeeping, and social media marketing.
• Campus Alberta Central is a joint venture between Olds College and Red Deer Polytechnic that provides post-secondary programs to communities throughout the central Alberta region. Student success is a high priority for Campus Alberta Central. Community Learning Partners within the region provide access to information, technology and support to help ensure students have a positive learning experience.
• Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program – this program offers access to funding towards coaching or training to people with disabilities or ongoing health conditions.

Useful Links:

Government of Alberta Links

• Alberta Small Business Resources
• Business and Economy
• Canada-Alberta Job Grant

Government of Canada Links

• Business and Industry - including business grants and financing info
• Canadian Industry Statistics 
• Innovation Canada

Youth Entrepreneurship

• BDC Young Entrepreneur - Business Development Bank of Canada's entrepreneurship opportunities for youth
• Futurpreneur Canada - 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.

Indigenous Resources

• Aboriginal Youth Business Council
• Business Link Indigenous Services
• BDC Indigenous Entrepreneur 
• Indigenous Services Canada 
• Red Deer Native Friendship Society (RDNFS)

Entrepreneurs with Disabilities

• Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program

Francophone Economic Development Organization

• CDEA

Starting a business in a city (Calgary/Edmonton)

Business Link operates walk-in centres in Edmonton and Calgary. They offer information and advice about everything from start-up, regulations, financing and loan programs to marketing, product sourcing, e-business and government programs and services. They can also be reached via a toll-free business information line: 1-800-272-9675.