(Cochrane, AB) – This week, the Town of Cochrane celebrated seven promising local entrepreneurs as they completed the SMARTstart program, marking the 2024 cohort's graduation. Over the past eight months, these entrepreneurs have honed their business ideas or strengthened existing ventures through workshops, business skills training, networking and one-on-one mentorship.
The SMARTstart program is a guided roadmap for ideation stage startups and entrepreneurs who are eager to transform their innovative ideas into successful businesses. Established by Community Futures Centre West and delivered by Cochrane Economic Development, the program offers workshops on business and strategic planning and information from industry experts to help navigate the initial years of starting a business.
"The 2024 cohort is graduating from SMARTstart with a comprehensive business plan that will not only guide their individual business growth but also contribute to Cochrane’s overall economic vitality,” says Mark Krysinski, Director of Community Growth, Town of Cochrane. "By fostering entrepreneurial skills and creating strong networks with local mentors, business professionals and support organizations, SMARTstart is laying the foundation for long-term business success for entrepreneurs that will drive job creation in Cochrane, invest in spaces locally and support community growth."
"We’re incredibly proud of the dedication and resilience shown by this year’s SMARTstart graduates,” says Mayor Jeff Genung. "These entrepreneurs are not only investing in their own futures but also in the future of Cochrane. By bringing new ideas, energy and commitment to our business community, they’re helping make Cochrane a place where opportunity and innovation thrive. Congratulations and welcome to the entrepreneurial environment that is the business community of Cochrane.”
Mayor Jeff Genung, Cochrane Economic Development and Community Futures Centre West celebrated seven 2024 SMARTstart graduates during the event, including:
- Adele Folliott, Design for Living: Helping people age in place by assisting with downsizing, rightsizing, and home adaptations.
- Claudie Gallant, EBT SUP: A standup paddleboard school offering lessons, programs, and retreats for all skill levels.
- Sarah Malley, Hero Horses: Raising awareness and funds for equine therapy through unique 'Greg the Horse' collectible products.
- Karlene Myers, MyHR Consultant : Providing flexible HR solutions for small and medium-sized businesses.
- Jenny MacAulay, One Yellow Feather Pottery: High-quality, handcrafted ceramics and pottery classes aimed at inspiring creativity within the community.
- Akilah Roper, Roper Canadian Immigration Services: Assisting individuals, families, and businesses with navigating immigration processes.
- Jeanne Ironside, UDC Landscaping: Enhancing and maintaining heirloom yards with sustainable landscaping solutions
The event also recognized over 20 local business leaders who volunteered as mentors and workshop presenters, including Beneficial Insurance, Two Pharmacy, Trailblazers, AIgility Solutions, Corner Coworking, Innovate Cochrane and Polar Block.
SMARTstart is now accepting applications for the 2025 program, which runs from April to October. Entrepreneurs with validated ideas or new businesses in operation for less than 3 years are encouraged to apply.
SMARTstart information sessions will be held on November. 18, 2024, January 20 and February 10, 2025 at The Station (360 Railway St W.) from 5-6 p.m. Applications are open until February 14, 2025. For more details, visit www.cochrane.ca/smartstart or email business.development@cochrane.ca.
