AHC is proud to offer a wide range of entrepreneurship supports to newcomers in the Greater Edmonton area, including entrepreneurs and self-employed people. This program, and all the services offered through it, are government funded, which means they come at no cost to participants and require a government-issued identification to participate in any of them.
Our Entrepreneurship Supports Program includes a two-level Business Development Training, as well as additional useful resources such as Guest speakers talks, access to a business mentor, business coach or business consulting experts. Plus, the chance to participate in business networking events and gain exposure through pop-up markets around the city. In addition to our help and dedication to help direct you to other business resources or funding/investors when necessary.
With these supports, AHC helps to provide entrepreneurs with skills and tools to feed their passion for business, maximize their talents and realize their business-related goals. Together, we are working to create the next generation of small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Our two-level Business Development Training is the feature component of our Entrepreneurship Supports Program. We offer an 8-week level 1 introductory program and an 8-week level 2 advanced program to suit the needs of both experienced and beginner entrepreneurs.
This training component is comprehensive and reflects an inclusive and holistic business development approach. Our training model is what sets us apart from other offerings; it is a practical learning framework that is innovative and experiential. Importantly, it’s also based on adult learning principles.
The focus of the training will depend on the level being taken (l or ll).
Level l will cover all the basics, while level ll will go more in depth on subjects covered on level l and will be more focused on the implementation of the participant’s business idea.
During the duration of the full program, participants will complete a market research report, a feasibility plan, a marketing plan, and a business plan.
Participants will earn a Certification in Business Development.
| There are two 8-week training sessions each year, one in spring and one in the fall.
Spring Sessions: April to June Fall Sessions: October to December Both the Level 1 (introductory) Program and the Level 2 (advanced) Program are offered on a part-time basis, with workshops taking place on Saturday mornings, usually from 9 am to 1 pm. Workshops are typically online, but there will be a few sessions in person at AHC’s main office – 10578 113 St NW, Edmonton, AB. For more information about the program, contact Lida Arguello. Email: lida.arguello@a4hc.ca | Direct: 587-338-0557 |
We prioritize permanent residents and refugees, but we have a limited number of spots available for Canadian Citizens.
To apply to the program, complete and submit the registration form and one of our team members will contact you as soon as possible. You will need to provide two pieces of government-issued ID, i.e., Permanent Resident Card, Passport or Driver’s License. After filling out this form, you’ll automatically be enrolled in our entrepreneurship supports program.
Our team is ready to meet with you and help feed your passion for business.
Instructors and business advisors are enthusiastic, approachable and willing to answer all questions. Our supportive team includes:
Team contacts:
Abdoulaye Barry, Entrepreneurship Supports Program Lead
Email: abdoulaye.barry@a4hc.ca |Direct: 587.337.8441
Lida Arguello, Entrepreneurship Supports Program Facilitator
Email: lida.arguello@a4hc.ca | Direct: 587.338.0557
Guest speakers for our Entrepreneurship Supports Program are well-experienced business owners. Their commentaries and guidance help to support entrepreneurs by giving them more knowledge about specific industries, factors and trends that are relevant to business owners in Alberta and Canada.
Each speaker is ready to share insights about their own journeys and challenges in the business world, and some of the tips and secrets behind their successes. Topics addressed cover many areas, including management issues, legal matters and various aspects of business operations.
We match entrepreneurs with established Canadian business owners and experienced business-related professionals. All participants in the Entrepreneurship Support Program are eligible; mentoring sessions occur once a week, for up to 12 sessions.
We connect entrepreneurs with local consultants or advisors, such as sales experts, lawyers, accountants, and other industry experts.
We match entrepreneurs with local business experts, for individual meetings and advice.
We facilitate business-to-business (B2B) networking through our own AHC Business Clubs, Edmonton BizNet, local trade shows, Edmonton Chamber of Commerce events, and business-related or public events in Greater Edmonton.
Our team also connects entrepreneurs with:
We promote entrepreneurs via local pop-up markets. We assist them in exhibiting and selling their products. Pop-ups are somewhat like a mini-farmers’ market, where local residents come to know our start-ups and buy their products and services.
On June 24, 2026, Action for Healthy Communities (AHC) hosted the EMPOWER Success Celebration at the AHC Event Centre, bringing together more than 65 participants, community partners, stakeholders, facilitators, and guests to recognize the achievements of newcomer and underrepresented women who completed the program. The celebration marked an important milestone for participants as they received…
Sometimes the perfect recipe for success starts with passion, creativity, and determination. For Joannie, that recipe led to the launch of Straight from the Hearth Inc., a home-based business specializing in custom-designed sugar cookies made with high-quality ingredients, including olive oil. From logo cookies and image cookies to interactive “Paint Your Own” creations for children,…
On May 28, 2026, Action for Healthy Communities (AHC) proudly hosted the 10th Annual Celebration of Alberta’s Entrepreneurial Success at the Royal Glenora Club in Edmonton. The milestone event brought together more than 130 entrepreneurs, community partners, business leaders, and government representatives to recognize a decade of growth, resilience, and inclusive entrepreneurship across Alberta, while…
Starting and growing a business can feel overwhelming—but with the right support, guidance, and community, entrepreneurs can move from idea to action with confidence. Over the past six weeks, participants in our interactive entrepreneur training program took meaningful steps toward building and strengthening their businesses. Designed to support individuals at every stage—from early ideas to…
Fresh from her inspiring journey, Yiniva Murillo is turning her passion for community celebration into a thriving, women-led business that inspires and connects her community. In the spirit of continuing International Women’s Day, we celebrate Yiniva — a determined entrepreneur, creative visionary, and community leader whose journey reflects the strength, resilience, and independence of women…
When Jaspreet S. joined Action for Healthy Communities’ (AHC) Business Training and Support Development Program in Fall 2025, he came ready to grow his entrepreneurial vision into a sustainable business. Originally from India, Jaspreet saw the program as a chance to refine his ideas, strengthen his strategy, and take his fragrance brand to new heights.…