{"id":15381,"date":"2026-08-13T14:09:39","date_gmt":"2026-08-13T18:09:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/futurpreneur.ca\/?page_id=15381"},"modified":"2026-09-04T16:08:37","modified_gmt":"2026-09-04T20:08:37","slug":"community-partner-award-updated","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/futurpreneur.ca\/en\/futurpreneur-awards-updated-page\/community-partner-award-updated\/","title":{"rendered":"Community\u00a0Partner\u00a0Award Updated"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\t<section class=\"alignfull header-block \" aria-labelledby=\"header-title\">\n\t\t<!-- Simple Header -->\n\t\t\t\t<!-- Header with an Image -->\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"main-grid\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"main-grid__margin\"><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"header-with-image\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"header-with-image__text\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h1 id=\"header-title\">Meet the Futurpreneur 30th Anniversary Awards Finalists<\/h1>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>We received inspiring applications from across Canada.  After careful review, we\u2019re excited to announce the Entrepreneur, Mentor and Community Partner finalists who will now move forward.  \r\n\r\nExplore their stories and vote to help one Entrepreneur finalist take home the $30,000 People\u2019s Choice Award.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"header-with-image__image fly-out-caption__trigger\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"group\" aria-labelledby=\"caption1 caption2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"aspect-ratio-box\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"767\" src=\"https:\/\/futurpreneur.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/FP30_Awards_Landing_Hero_1532x1148-1024x767.png\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/futurpreneur.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/FP30_Awards_Landing_Hero_1532x1148-1024x767.png 1024w, https:\/\/futurpreneur.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/FP30_Awards_Landing_Hero_1532x1148-300x225.png 300w, https:\/\/futurpreneur.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/FP30_Awards_Landing_Hero_1532x1148-768x576.png 768w, https:\/\/futurpreneur.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/FP30_Awards_Landing_Hero_1532x1148-1536x1151.png 1536w, https:\/\/futurpreneur.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/FP30_Awards_Landing_Hero_1532x1148.png 1724w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"main-grid__margin\"><\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<!-- Header with Partners -->\n\t\t\t\t<!-- Header with Video -->\n\t\t\t<\/section>\n\n\n\n\t<section class=\"alignfull program-sub-nav-block\" aria-labelledby=\"program-sub-nav-block-title\">\n\t\t<div class=\"main-grid\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"main-grid__margin\"><\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"main-grid__body program-sub-nav\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/futurpreneur.ca\/en\/?page_id=15369\" class=\"button \">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tAbout\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/futurpreneur.ca\/en\/futurpreneur-awards-updated-page\/entrepreneur-awards-updated\/\" class=\"button \">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tEntrepreneur\u00a0Awards Updated\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/futurpreneur.ca\/en\/futurpreneur-awards-updated-page\/mentor-award-updated\/\" class=\"button \">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMentor Award Updated\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/futurpreneur.ca\/en\/futurpreneur-awards-updated-page\/community-partner-award-updated\/\" class=\"button active\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCommunity\u00a0Partner\u00a0Award Updated\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/futurpreneur.ca\/en\/futurpreneur-awards-updated-page\/supporters-updated\/\" class=\"button \">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSupporters Updated\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"main-grid__margin\"><\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/section>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Meet&nbsp;the Community Partner Award Finalists<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An entrepreneur\u2019s success does not happen in isolation. It takes an ecosystem. The Community Partner Award recognizes outstanding organizations that have played a meaningful role in advancing youth entrepreneurship and helping young entrepreneurs succeed across Canada, in collaboration with&nbsp;Futurpreneur.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Meet the Community Partner Award finalists helping young entrepreneurs access opportunities, create sustainable businesses and contribute to stronger local economies.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Community Partner Award winner will be announced&nbsp;at&nbsp;the&nbsp;Futurpreneur&nbsp;30th Anniversary Awards on October 28, 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\t<section class=\"people-block\" aria-label=\"Meet the Community Partner finalists section\">\n\t\t<div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"js-people-block\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-language=\"en\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-block-title=\"Meet the Community Partner finalists\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-block-text=\"\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-block-button-text=\"\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-panel-title=\"\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-page-content=\"\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-page-id=\"meet-the-community-partner-finalists\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-people-json=\"[{&quot;id&quot;:15922,&quot;slug&quot;:&quot;cbdc-central-pei-15922&quot;,&quot;photo&quot;:&quot;https:\\\/\\\/futurpreneur.ca\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/09\\\/4.png&quot;,&quot;name&quot;:&quot;CBDC Central PEI&quot;,&quot;job_title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;professional_title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;location&quot;:&quot; PEI&quot;,&quot;bio&quot;:&quot;&lt;p&gt;For many aspiring entrepreneurs, access to financing is only one piece of the puzzle. Just as important is having someone to turn to for guidance,\\u00a0encouragement\\u00a0and practical support along the way. That is where CBDC Central PEI has made a lasting difference.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;As Futurpreneur\\u2019s longstanding delivery partner on Prince Edward Island, CBDC Central PEI helps connect entrepreneurs to the financing, mentorship and resources they need to turn ideas into viable businesses. But its role extends beyond referrals. By combining local expertise with Futurpreneur\\u2019s national programs, the organization ensures entrepreneurs have access to both the tools and the personal support needed to move forward with confidence.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;This collaborative approach reflects a shared belief that entrepreneurs achieve more when organizations work together on their behalf. While\\u00a0Futurpreneur\\u00a0provides startup financing and mentorship opportunities for young entrepreneurs, CBDC Central PEI reinforces those supports through business counselling, regional knowledge and hands-on guidance tailored to the realities of doing business on PEI.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;One example of this partnership in action was the\\u00a0Unleash Your Side Hustle Potential workshop, co-hosted by CBDC Central PEI and Futurpreneur in 2025. The event welcomed 55 participants who were interested in launching or growing a business while maintaining other employment. Entrepreneurs were introduced to business planning tools, mentorship opportunities and financing options, helping them better understand the next steps in their entrepreneurial journey. Many stayed after the event to connect directly with representatives from both organizations and explore available supports.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;Beyond individual events, CBDC Central PEI plays\\u00a0an important role\\u00a0in ensuring entrepreneurs can access ongoing support throughout the life of their business. By making national programs more visible,\\u00a0accessible\\u00a0and relevant at the local level, the organization helps create a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem across Prince Edward Island.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;Through its collaborative spirit and entrepreneur-first approach, CBDC Central PEI continues to help more Islanders take their first steps toward business ownership and long-term success.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&quot;,&quot;bio_text&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;vote_link&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;vote_text&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;facebook&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;twitter&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;linkedin&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;website&quot;:&quot;&quot;},{&quot;id&quot;:15940,&quot;slug&quot;:&quot;community-futures-west-yellowhead-15940&quot;,&quot;photo&quot;:&quot;https:\\\/\\\/futurpreneur.ca\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/09\\\/2-2.png&quot;,&quot;name&quot;:&quot;Community Futures West Yellowhead&quot;,&quot;job_title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;professional_title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;location&quot;:&quot;AB&quot;,&quot;bio&quot;:&quot;&lt;p&gt;In rural and Indigenous communities across Northwest Alberta, entrepreneurship can be a powerful path to economic opportunity. Community Futures West Yellowhead is helping make that path more accessible by bringing together partners,\\u00a0resources\\u00a0and culturally relevant support where entrepreneurs need it most.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;Driven by a mission to strengthen local economies and support entrepreneurs, the organization plays\\u00a0an important role\\u00a0in helping rural communities build long-term prosperity. Its partnership with\\u00a0Futurpreneur\\u00a0reflects that commitment, creating new opportunities for Indigenous and young entrepreneurs to access financing, mentorship,\\u00a0training\\u00a0and trusted guidance close to home.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;A standout example is the Indigenous Entrepreneurship Conference held in Grande Cache. Designed as a welcoming and culturally grounded gathering, the event brought together entrepreneurs, Indigenous organizations, economic development partners and industry leaders to share knowledge, build\\u00a0connections\\u00a0and explore opportunities for growth. Through its collaboration with\\u00a0Futurpreneur, Community Futures West Yellowhead helped deliver a dedicated session featuring the Indigenous Entrepreneur Startup Program and the\\u00a0Ohpikiwin\\u00a0Workshop Series, connecting participants with culturally relevant resources and support.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;The response\\u00a0demonstrated\\u00a0the need for this type of programming. The conference\\u00a0was\\u00a0sold out,\\u00a0with 60 attendees,\\u00a0and delivered 113 training engagements through breakout sessions supported by 11 partner organizations. Beyond attendance, the event helped strengthen relationships across the Indigenous entrepreneurship ecosystem and contributed to conversations about future economic development opportunities in the region.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;Community Futures West Yellowhead continues to build on that momentum. Working with Indigenous organizations and regional partners, it is helping create clearer pathways for Indigenous youth interested in entrepreneurship, including culturally grounded financial literacy training through the Learning Indigenous Financial Teachings (LIFT) program.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;By listening to communities, reducing\\u00a0barriers\\u00a0and creating spaces where entrepreneurs can learn, connect and grow, Community Futures West Yellowhead is helping ensure that\\u00a0Alberta\\u2019s\\u00a0Indigenous and rural entrepreneurs\\u00a0have\\u00a0access to the tools and opportunities they need to succeed.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&quot;,&quot;bio_text&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;vote_link&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;vote_text&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;facebook&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;twitter&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;linkedin&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;website&quot;:&quot;&quot;},{&quot;id&quot;:15916,&quot;slug&quot;:&quot;conseil-de-developpement-economique-de-la-nouvelle-ecosse-cdene-15916&quot;,&quot;photo&quot;:&quot;https:\\\/\\\/futurpreneur.ca\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/09\\\/6.png&quot;,&quot;name&quot;:&quot;Conseil de d\\u00e9veloppement \\u00e9conomique de la Nouvelle-\\u00c9cosse (CDENE)&quot;,&quot;job_title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;professional_title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;location&quot;:&quot;NS&quot;,&quot;bio&quot;:&quot;&lt;p&gt;For many French-speaking entrepreneurs in Nova Scotia, access to support in their own language can make all the difference. For more than 25 years, the Conseil de\\u00a0d\\u00e9veloppement\\u00a0\\u00e9conomique de la Nouvelle-\\u00c9cosse\\u00a0(CDENE) has played that role, helping entrepreneurs and businesses at every stage of their journey while strengthening the province\\u2019s Acadian and Francophone entrepreneurial ecosystem.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;As the only provincewide Francophone organization dedicated to economic development, CDENE\\u00a0serves as a vital bridge between entrepreneurs, ecosystem\\u00a0partners\\u00a0and the resources they need to bring their ideas to life. Its partnership with\\u00a0Futurpreneur\\u00a0reflects a shared commitment to creating more opportunities for young entrepreneurs through mentorship, networking,\\u00a0training\\u00a0and awareness-building initiatives.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;The impact of that collaboration can be seen through several key initiatives. In 2024, 48h Top Chrono Atlantique brought together 27 Francophone entrepreneurs in an intensive business development experience, while more than 70 people attended the launch event. During Global Entrepreneurship Week 2025, CDENE\\u00a0welcomed 75 participants to a screening of\\u00a0How She Dares\\u00a0and connected 24 entrepreneurs and ecosystem partners through a networking event led by\\u00a0Futurpreneur, creating meaningful opportunities for learning and connection.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;CDENE\\u2019s commitment to inclusive economic growth is equally significant. Initiatives such as Black Excellence in Business, #OwnersWanted and 48h Top Chrono Atlantique have helped engage Black entrepreneurs, Francophone newcomers, women\\u00a0entrepreneurs\\u00a0and rural communities that often face\\u00a0additional\\u00a0barriers to entrepreneurial support.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;By connecting people with knowledge,\\u00a0resources\\u00a0and networks, CDENE\\u00a0helps entrepreneurs move from ideas to action. Its long-standing commitment to collaboration,\\u00a0accessibility\\u00a0and community impact continues to expand opportunities for entrepreneurs across Nova Scotia and strengthen the path to business success.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&quot;,&quot;bio_text&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;vote_link&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;vote_text&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;facebook&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;twitter&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;linkedin&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;website&quot;:&quot;&quot;},{&quot;id&quot;:15934,&quot;slug&quot;:&quot;evol-15934&quot;,&quot;photo&quot;:&quot;https:\\\/\\\/futurpreneur.ca\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/09\\\/5.png&quot;,&quot;name&quot;:&quot;Evol&quot;,&quot;job_title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;professional_title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;location&quot;:&quot;QC&quot;,&quot;bio&quot;:&quot;&lt;p&gt;For many young entrepreneurs, securing financing is one of the biggest hurdles between a promising idea and a successful business. That is where Evol makes a meaningful difference.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;An impact organization dedicated to financing and supporting inclusive and diverse businesses, Evol works to make entrepreneurship more accessible across Quebec. &lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;With a presence in all 17 regions of the province and a close partnership with\\u00a0Futurpreneur\\u2019s\\u00a0teams, Evol helps entrepreneurs access funding\\u00a0as\\u00a0well as\\u00a0the guidance, resources and support they need to move their businesses forward.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;Over the years, this collaboration has evolved into a true continuum of support. While Futurpreneur helps young entrepreneurs launch their businesses, Evol steps in to complement financing needs and support key stages of growth. Together, the two organizations help reduce the barriers that often prevent young entrepreneurs from accessing the capital needed to succeed.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;The impact of this partnership is reflected first and foremost in the entrepreneurs it helps. Since the beginning of the collaboration, dozens of businesses have benefited from joint or complementary support. \\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;Evol\\u2019s commitment extends beyond financing alone. The organization helps create a more inclusive entrepreneurial landscape by supporting entrepreneurs from underrepresented communities in both rural and urban regions. Its approach focuses on people\\u2019s potential and the strength of their business ideas rather than relying solely on traditional financing criteria that can create barriers to entry.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;Through its partnership with\\u00a0Futurpreneur, Evol is helping build an entrepreneurial ecosystem that is more accessible, more\\u00a0inclusive\\u00a0and better equipped to support the next generation of business owners. For many young entrepreneurs in Quebec, that collaboration\\u00a0represents\\u00a0financial support\\u00a0but more\\u00a0importantly,\\u00a0it\\u00a0opens the door to new possibilities.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&quot;,&quot;bio_text&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;vote_link&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;vote_text&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;facebook&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;twitter&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;linkedin&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;website&quot;:&quot;&quot;},{&quot;id&quot;:15904,&quot;slug&quot;:&quot;london-small-business-centre-15904&quot;,&quot;photo&quot;:&quot;https:\\\/\\\/futurpreneur.ca\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/09\\\/3-3.png&quot;,&quot;name&quot;:&quot;London Small Business Centre&quot;,&quot;job_title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;professional_title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;location&quot;:&quot;ON&quot;,&quot;bio&quot;:&quot;&lt;p&gt;Starting a business can feel overwhelming, especially for young entrepreneurs navigating financing, business\\u00a0planning\\u00a0and the many decisions that come with turning an idea into reality. For decades, the London Small Business Centre has helped make that journey more manageable by ensuring entrepreneurs have access to trusted advice, practical\\u00a0education\\u00a0and meaningful connections.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;Since Futurpreneur&#8217;s early years, the London Small Business Centre has been a valued partner, helping young entrepreneurs across London and Southwestern Ontario access the resources they need to launch and grow successful businesses. Through frequent referrals and ongoing collaboration, the organization plays an important role in connecting entrepreneurs with Futurpreneur&#8217;s financing and mentorship programs while providing local guidance every step of the way.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;What makes this partnership particularly effective is its ability to combine national opportunities with community-based support. Entrepreneurs can access one-on-one business advice, training, networking\\u00a0opportunities\\u00a0and business planning\\u00a0assistance\\u00a0through the Centre, while also\\u00a0benefiting\\u00a0from\\u00a0Futurpreneur&#8217;s\\u00a0financing and mentorship programs. Together, these supports help entrepreneurs move forward with greater confidence and stronger foundations for long-term success.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;The impact extends far beyond a single program or funding opportunity. Entrepreneurs who first connect through\\u00a0Futurpreneur\\u00a0often continue working with the London Small Business Centre as their businesses evolve, accessing workshops, advisory services, growth\\u00a0programs\\u00a0and networking opportunities. This ongoing relationship helps them remain connected to valuable resources throughout their entrepreneurial journey.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;The Centre has also\\u00a0demonstrated\\u00a0a commitment to adapting to entrepreneurs&#8217; changing needs. Programs such as\\u00a0Foodpreneur\\u00a0Advantage, along with virtual and hybrid learning opportunities, have expanded access to business support while creating new pathways for entrepreneurs to learn,\\u00a0connect\\u00a0and grow.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;Through its collaborative spirit, strong referral partnership and unwavering focus on entrepreneurs, the London Small Business Centre has helped create a more connected and supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem where young business owners can thrive.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&quot;,&quot;bio_text&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;vote_link&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;vote_text&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;facebook&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;twitter&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;linkedin&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;website&quot;:&quot;&quot;},{&quot;id&quot;:15898,&quot;slug&quot;:&quot;microentreprendre-basses-laurentides-15898&quot;,&quot;photo&quot;:&quot;https:\\\/\\\/futurpreneur.ca\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/09\\\/7.png&quot;,&quot;name&quot;:&quot;MicroEntreprendre Basses-Laurentides&quot;,&quot;job_title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;professional_title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;location&quot;:&quot;QC&quot;,&quot;bio&quot;:&quot;&lt;p&gt;For someone with a business idea but limited access to traditional financing, the path to launching can feel out of reach.\\u00a0MicroEntreprendre\\u00a0Basses-Laurentides helps people move past those barriers, one step at a time.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;Since 2008, the organization has worked with\\u00a0Futurpreneur\\u00a0to provide young entrepreneurs in the Basses-Laurentides with support that brings together financing,\\u00a0mentorship\\u00a0and practical\\u00a0expertise. Its team helps entrepreneurs strengthen their plans and prepare solid applications that meet\\u00a0Futurpreneur\\u2019s\\u00a0criteria. It also\\u00a0remains\\u00a0by their side before, during and after launch, helping them make informed decisions and build their entrepreneurial skills.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;That close support can change the course of a business.\\u00a0For example,\\u00a0in\\u00a02012,\\u00a0the co-founders of a Quebec-based heavy\\u00a0vehicle maintenance\\u00a0business\\u00a0could not access the conventional financing they needed to launch.\\u00a0A financing package combining support from\\u00a0MicroEntreprendre\\u00a0Basses-Laurentides and\\u00a0Futurpreneur\\u00a0enabled\\u00a0them to start their business. The company continues to grow, create quality\\u00a0jobs\\u00a0and contribute to the local economy.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;Over the years, the two partners have built a deep level of trust. Futurpreneur allowed entrepreneurs supported jointly by both organizations to participate in MicroEntreprendre Basses-Laurentides\\u2019 group mentorship program. In 2014, Futurpreneur also presented the organization with its Ambassador Award, recognizing its contribution to entrepreneurship in the region.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;Through its human, flexible and inclusive approach,\\u00a0MicroEntreprendre\\u00a0Basses-Laurentides makes financing,\\u00a0resources\\u00a0and networks more accessible. In doing so, it gives entrepreneurs greater confidence to move forward and contribute to a local economy that better reflects their community.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&quot;,&quot;bio_text&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;vote_link&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;vote_text&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;facebook&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;twitter&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;linkedin&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;website&quot;:&quot;&quot;},{&quot;id&quot;:15910,&quot;slug&quot;:&quot;osentreprendre-15910&quot;,&quot;photo&quot;:&quot;https:\\\/\\\/futurpreneur.ca\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/09\\\/OSE_Logo_no-BG-1024x1024.png&quot;,&quot;name&quot;:&quot;OSEntreprendre&quot;,&quot;job_title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;professional_title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;location&quot;:&quot;QC&quot;,&quot;bio&quot;:&quot;&lt;p&gt;Every entrepreneurial journey begins\\u00a0with an idea. For\\u00a0nearly three\\u00a0decades,\\u00a0OSEntreprendre\\u00a0has helped thousands of young people and entrepreneurs believe in those ideas, develop\\u00a0them\\u00a0and turn them into action.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;Through an extensive network of partners, educational\\u00a0institutions\\u00a0and entrepreneurial ecosystem leaders,\\u00a0OSEntreprendre\\u00a0promotes the entrepreneurial spirit in all 17 regions of Quebec. Its work reaches young people in schools while also supporting entrepreneurs as they take their first steps toward business ownership. Since 1998, its initiatives have engaged more than two million participants.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;For the past 21 years, OSEntreprendre and Futurpreneur have worked side by side, united by a shared belief that entrepreneurs are more likely to succeed when they have access to the right support at the right time. That partnership comes to life through initiatives such as the OSEntreprendre Challenge and Entrepreneurship at School Week.\\u00a0Since 2017, Entrepreneurship at School Week has connected more than 150,000 young people with entrepreneurs from their communities through thousands of free classroom presentations delivered\\u00a0in\\u00a0schools,\\u00a0colleges\\u00a0and universities. These conversations help make entrepreneurship more tangible,\\u00a0accessible\\u00a0and inspiring for the next generation.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;The\\u00a0OSEntreprendre\\u00a0Challenge creates another important gateway into entrepreneurship. For one quarter of participating entrepreneurs, it\\u00a0represents\\u00a0their first connection to the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Each year, it helps thousands of people\\u00a0validate\\u00a0their ideas, clarify their vision, expand their\\u00a0networks\\u00a0and build credibility.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;Beyond its programs,\\u00a0OSEntreprendre\\u00a0brings people together. It shines a spotlight on diverse entrepreneurial journeys, celebrates entrepreneurs from a wide range of\\u00a0backgrounds\\u00a0and helps make entrepreneurship more accessible across Quebec. Through its long-standing partnership with\\u00a0Futurpreneur, the organization continues to inspire and support new generations of entrepreneurs, helping them move from inspiration to action.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&quot;,&quot;bio_text&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;vote_link&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;vote_text&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;facebook&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;twitter&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;linkedin&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;website&quot;:&quot;&quot;},{&quot;id&quot;:15928,&quot;slug&quot;:&quot;the-business-centre-nipissing-parry-sound-15928&quot;,&quot;photo&quot;:&quot;https:\\\/\\\/futurpreneur.ca\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/09\\\/1-3.png&quot;,&quot;name&quot;:&quot;The Business Centre Nipissing Parry Sound&quot;,&quot;job_title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;professional_title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;location&quot;:&quot;ON&quot;,&quot;bio&quot;:&quot;&lt;p&gt;For\\u00a0nearly two\\u00a0decades, The Business Centre Nipissing Parry Sound has been helping entrepreneurs turn ideas into businesses and ambitions into opportunities. As a not-for-profit Small Business Centre serving the districts of Nipissing and Parry Sound, the organization has become a trusted first stop for people looking to start or grow a business, particularly young entrepreneurs navigating the challenges of funding, planning and early growth.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;Its partnership with\\u00a0Futurpreneur\\u00a0is rooted in a shared goal: making sure aspiring business owners have access to the support they need to succeed. Since 2006, the two organizations have worked side by side through referrals, workshops, community\\u00a0events\\u00a0and information sessions. The Business Centre regularly connects eligible entrepreneurs to\\u00a0Futurpreneur\\u2019s\\u00a0financing and mentorship programs, often helping them understand their options and make meaningful connections that move their businesses forward.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;The impact of that support can be seen in stories like\\u00a0that of a\\u00a0North Bay bridal shop referred to\\u00a0Futurpreneur\\u00a0in 2018. After accessing\\u00a0financing\\u00a0and mentorship,\\u00a0the entrepreneur\\u00a0successfully launched her business and later expanded to a second location. Reflecting on her experience, she credits Jennifer Nickerson and The Business Centre for providing guidance, encouragement and practical advice that helped shape her entrepreneurial journey.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;Beyond individual success stories, The Business Centre supports thousands of entrepreneurs each year through consultations,\\u00a0workshops\\u00a0and specialized programs. Its Newcomer Entrepreneurship Program helped 62 participants explore business ownership, leading to the creation of 12 new businesses in Northern Ontario. Through outreach in rural and remote communities, partnerships with equity-focused organizations and a commitment to barrier-free services, The Business Centre continues to ensure that entrepreneurship\\u00a0remains\\u00a0accessible to all.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&lt;p&gt;For entrepreneurs across Northern Ontario, The Business Centre Nipissing Parry Sound is a\\u00a0valuable\\u00a0resource; but\\u00a0it\\u00a0is\\u00a0also\\u00a0a dedicated partner, a\\u00a0connector\\u00a0and a champion of their success.\\u00a0&lt;\\\/p&gt;\\n&quot;,&quot;bio_text&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;vote_link&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;vote_text&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;facebook&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;twitter&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;linkedin&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;website&quot;:&quot;&quot;}]\">\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/section>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group careers-cta alignfull is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Questions?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Please check our FAQ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-f454503a wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/futurpreneur.ca\/en\/futurpreneur-awards\/faq\/#community\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Community Partner FAQ<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>If you still have questions, please contact us at: <a href=\"mailto:programs@futurpreneur.ca\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">programs@futurpreneur.ca<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Meet&nbsp;the Community Partner Award Finalists An entrepreneur\u2019s success does not happen in isolation. It takes an ecosystem. The Community Partner Award recognizes outstanding organizations that have played a meaningful role in advancing youth entrepreneurship and helping young entrepreneurs succeed across Canada, in collaboration with&nbsp;Futurpreneur.&nbsp; Meet the Community Partner Award finalists helping young entrepreneurs access opportunities, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":0,"parent":15369,"menu_order":3,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-15381","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/futurpreneur.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/15381","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/futurpreneur.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/futurpreneur.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/futurpreneur.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/futurpreneur.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=15381"}],"version-history":[{"count":13,"href":"https:\/\/futurpreneur.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/15381\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":16241,"href":"https:\/\/futurpreneur.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/15381\/revisions\/16241"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/futurpreneur.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/15369"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/futurpreneur.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=15381"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}