Happy Chinese New Year to everyone in Calgary Northern Hills! May it be a year of health, happiness and prosperity.
Alberta’s economy is picking up. To keep things moving forward in Calgary, the Government of Alberta is investing in Innovate Calgary. The infusion of $1.5 million will connect entrepreneurs with mentors and experts to help them navigate the early stages of starting and growing a business. Statistics show that Albertan small businesses with incubator support have an average growth rate of 25 per cent, while nationally the average is less than 5 per cent.
The program’s funding comes from Economic Development and Trade’s Alberta Entrepreneurship Incubator program (AEI), a $10-million, two-year pilot, delivered through Alberta Innovates to fund entrepreneur development programs across Alberta. “Small businesses bring exciting new ideas into our economy and create jobs and opportunities for all Albertans. That’s why we are providing this support to help more entrepreneurs turn their ideas into new businesses with products and services that are ready for market,” says Deron Bilous, Minister of Economic Development and Trade. For more information on this or any Government of Alberta programs, please contact my office at [email protected].
With Chinese New Year and Alberta’s Family Day on the same weekend, it is a great opportunity to spend time with friends and family. Please join us at Vivo for Healthier Generations on Monday, February 19, 2018, 12-4pm, for “Family Skate Day.” Admission to the arena is FREE with a donation to the Calgary food Bank. Enjoy hot chocolate while you reconnect and stay active!
As well, stop by my booth to say hello the following Sunday, February 25, 10am-4pm, when we gather at Vivo to celebrate Lantern Festival with riddle-guessing challenges, games, music and prizes. Happy Chinese New Year!