Self-Employment Program
Community Futures Centre West offers a highly successful, innovative self employment program to unemployed Albertans who have identified and researched a viable business idea that matches their skill and financial situation. The program is available to men and women in the communities of Airdrie, Banff, Canmore, Cochrane, Crossfield, Water Valley and surrounding areas.
Individuals with a feasible business concept may be eligible to participate in this 26 week small business training program. Successful applicants will receive training and guidance in business planning, marketing, introductory bookkeeping and financial management and other aspects of running their own business.
Program intake and counselling is offered on an individual basis. Weekly group training sessions assist participants with the transition from employment to self-employment and provide a comprehensive overview of business planning and the management tools needed to achieve success in business. Please note this program does not provide financing for business ventures – it’s aim is to provide future business owners with the training and support needed to successfully own and operate a small business.
Eligible participants must be unemployed and be either:
- A current recipient of regular Employment Insurance benefits or eligible to receive benefits
- A previous recipient of Employment Insurance benefits (within the last 3 years)
- A recipient of maternity or parental benefits within the last 5 years
- A recipient of Income Support
In additional to individual eligibility, interested candidates must attend an orientation session, have a viable business concept and:
- Possess the technical skills in their chosen industry or trade
- Have the financial capacity to start the business
- Have a strong support network
- Be willing to commit to the program and its requirements
Need some inspiration? Check out some of our self employment program success stories.
For more information on this great program to determine if it’s right for you or to obtain an application package, please contact the Self Employment Manager. This project is made possible through Alberta Employment, Immigration and Industry.