Finding a job in a new country isn’t always easy. For many newcomers, building a career in Canada comes with challenges, from navigating an unfamiliar job market to having international experience and skills that employers may not fully recognize. But what if the path forward looked a little different?
Starting a business can open doors to new opportunities, allowing newcomers to turn their skills, passions, and ideas into something of their own. Being your own boss comes with its own challenges, but it can also offer a chance to build a future on your own terms.
During Small Business Week, Action for Healthy Communities (AHC) brought together more than 60 entrepreneurs, business professionals, mentors, and community members in Edmonton for three events focused on learning, networking, and exploring the possibilities of entrepreneurship.
From pitching business ideas to learning from established business owners and discovering ways to build a strong brand, participants gained practical insights and encouragement to take their next steps in business.
Turning Business Ideas into Opportunities
The Business Pitch Competition gave 12 entrepreneurs the opportunity to present their business ideas and share their plans for the future. Participants received valuable feedback from judges representing the food industry, financial advisory services, local businesses, and the City of Edmonton, as well as audience members.
The competition provided a chance to practise presenting business ideas, build confidence, and receive different perspectives from people with business experience. The top three participants were also recognized with prizes for their presentations.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, opportunities like these can be an important step toward turning an idea into a business.
Learning from Those Who Have Been There
At La Morenita Restaurant, attendees had the opportunity to hear directly from the restaurant owner and a business mentor. Together, they shared their entrepreneurial experiences, practical advice, and valuable resources for people looking to start or grow a business.
Starting a business involves more than having a great idea. Understanding the challenges, finding the right resources, and learning from others can make a meaningful difference. Hearing real experiences from local business owners gave participants a closer look at what it takes to build and operate a business.
Building a Brand and Finding Your Customers
The Be Your Own Brand workshop explored the importance of personal and business branding. Participants learned how branding shapes the way customers recognize and connect with a business, along with marketing strategies and digital tools to help increase visibility and support business growth.
Whether starting from scratch or looking to grow an existing business, knowing how to communicate your value and reach potential customers is an important part of building a strong business presence.
Exploring What’s Possible Through Entrepreneurship
AHC’s Small Business Week events highlighted the opportunities that can come from sharing knowledge, building connections, and learning from others. For newcomers exploring their next career steps, entrepreneurship offers another path to consider, one where their skills, experiences, and ideas can become the foundation for something of their own.
Thank you to all the participants, speakers, judges, mentors, and community partners who contributed their time and knowledge to make these events a success.
Every business starts somewhere. Sometimes, all it takes is an idea, the right guidance, and the confidence to take the first step.
