By Bibiana Cala
Since its launch in May 2022, the Build Your Business Newcomer Entrepreneurship Program has been a game-changer for aspiring entrepreneurs in Calgary. Designed specifically for newcomers, this program provides an immersive learning experience that helps participants understand the Canadian business landscape, refine their business ideas, and gain access to valuable networks and resources.
Now running its 12th cohort, the program has already built a thriving community of over 168 alumni. With a strong foundation of collaboration and support, 31% of graduates have successfully launched their businesses—an achievement that continues to grow as the program follows up with past participants. The industries represented among graduates are diverse, spanning food and beverage, professional services, import/export, non-profits, personal services, and entertainment.
The success of Build Your Business is reflected not only in the numbers but in the powerful testimonials of its participants. Anastasia from Cohort 1 expressed how the program helped her discover her business purpose: “This program has exceeded all my expectations… I think this is the best course I have ever participated in because I’m having a lot of useful information. I started to understand who I am, why I’m doing my business, why I want to launch my business.” Julia from Cohort 8 highlighted the invaluable connections she made: “As an entrepreneur who must rebuild herself almost from scratch in a new place, I especially appreciate the opportunity to meet the right people along the way… People who are open and curious, willing to help and support others and share their experiences.” Meanwhile, Arij from Cohort 11 emphasized the program’s deeper impact: “This wasn’t just about learning the ‘how’ of entrepreneurship; it was about discovering the ‘why,’ defining our values, and connecting as humans before entrepreneurs.”
A major contributor to this success is the exceptional team of facilitators and guest speakers. Lori Farley, founder of Intonovus Canada, has been a guiding force since Cohort 1, with co-facilitators David Daigle (founder of Wingman Direct Marketing Agency) and Nikesh Harrinarain (founder of Nik Consulting Services) joining in cohorts 5 to 8 to further enhance the program’s depth. The community of collaborators continues to grow, with more than 30 partners and 50 guest speakers contributing their time, expertise, and in-kind resources. Organizations such as Innovate Calgary’s Social Innovation Hub, Platform Calgary, Migr8+, Exmerce, and RBC have played critical roles in strengthening the program’s offerings. Among the guest speakers, some organizations have supported the program since its start, such as the City of Calgary, Alberta Health Services, CRA, Futurpreneur and Goodlawyer. And other local business owners, entrepreneurs, and investors have also given their time to support our classes. Additionally, alumni are now returning as guest speakers, sharing their experiences and inspiring the next generation of newcomers.
One of the program’s most exciting developments is its increasing recognition within Calgary’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. More organizations, private businesses, and investors are reaching out to build partnerships and support participants, recognizing the value and impact of Build Your Business. As demand for the program grows, CCIS is exploring opportunities to expand into rural areas, ensuring that even more newcomers have access to this transformative experience.
By empowering newcomers with the knowledge, confidence, and connections they need to launch their businesses, Build Your Business is making a lasting impact on Calgary’s entrepreneurial landscape. This program is not just about starting businesses, it’s about creating resilient, purpose-driven entrepreneurs who contribute to the city’s economic growth and cultural vibrancy. As this initiative continues to grow, it stands as a testament to the power of community, mentorship, and opportunity in shaping the future of entrepreneurship in Calgary.
Learn more about the BYB program here: https://ccisab.ca/newcomer-entrepreneur-program/
