SMARTstart Grande Prairie Application

SMARTstart Grande Prairie Application

Apply to the SMARTstart program by providing responses to the questions below. Fields marked with an * are required.
At SMARTstart, we believe entrepreneurship should be accessible to everyone. If you experience a disability, accessibility barrier, or learning difference that makes completing this application difficult, we encourage you to still begin the application as best you can.

If you need assistance completing the application, please contact your program coordinator, Sarah Bateman at projectsgp@albertacf.com or call (780) 814-5340.

Support may include:
- Walking through the application together
- Accepting verbal responses
- Providing alternative formats if needed
This support is intended for applicants who require accessibility accomodations. We are committed to providing equal access and support to all applicants.
Applicant Information

Tell us about you
First Name*
Last Name*
Preferred Pronouns
Email Address*
example@example.com
Phone Number*
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.
Are you eighteen years of age or older?*
City/Town of Residence*
Upload Your Photo

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Have you owned or operated a business before?*
What strengths do you bring as an entrepreneur?*
What business skills would you like to improve?

Marketing & BrandingSales & Customer AcquisitionFinancial projectionsNetworkingOperationsHiring, managing or leading a teamCustomer servicePricing products or servicesAI, tech and digital tools for businessBusiness Planning & StrategyOther
Share a little about you. Your background, passions, etc.*
Business Overview

Tell us more about your idea or business
Business name or business idea*
Business Industry/Sector
Business Website
Current Stage of Business*
If you selected 'Existing business', how long have you been operating?
Are you currently?*
Is your business located or primarily operating in the Grande Prairie region? (Check all that apply)

BeaverlodgeBezansonBuffalo LakeClairmontGrande PrairieCounty of Grande PrairieDemmittElmworthGoodfareGrovedaleHorse Lake First NationHuallenHytheLa GlaceLymburnSexsmithTeeppe CreekWembleyNo, I do not reside in or operate my business within the Grande Prairie RegionBusiness operates online, but I reside in the Grande Prairie Region
Is your business a franchise or part of a chain?*

YesNoNot applicable
Have you created a prototype, pilot, or test version of your product or service?*

YesNoNot applicable yet
Business Description
Briefly describe your business idea*
150-250 words
What products or services will your business provide?*
Who is your target customer?*
How will your business make money?*
What problem does your business solve or opportunity does it address?*
What are the biggest obstacles you're facing right now in starting or growing this business?*
Do you currently have a business plan?*
If yes, when was it last updated?
If no, have you started working on one?
What is your most pressing question or concern for your business?*
Ownership Structure
Number of Owners/Partners*
If more than one owner, please list partners names and briefly describe roles and responsibilities
Program Fit & Commitment
Have you attended or watched a SMARTstart information session?*
The program includes approx. 11- 90min workshops, a mix of online and in-person (located in Canmore) alternating lunchtime and evenings. Are you able to commit to attending them?*
Participants must complete a feasibility study, business plan or strategic plan. Are you committed to completing this work?*
Are you open to mentorship and willing to meet regularly with your assigned mentor during the SMARTstart program?*
Goals & Program Questions
Why are you interested in the SMARTstart Program?*
100 words or less
What specific skills or knowledge are you hoping to gain from SMARTstart?*
Name three ways you would like a mentor to provide guidance.*
Have you previously participated in any business training or mentorship programs?*
If yes, please list the programs and dates
Program Interest
How did you hear about SMARTstart?*
If 'Other', please specify
Optional Accessibility and Support Needs

At SMARTstart, we strive to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment for all entrepreneurs. The following questions are optional and confidential, and help us understand how we can best support participants throughout the program.
Are there any accessibility, learning, communication, sensory, physical, or other supportneeds you would like us to know about so we can support your participation inthe program? Examples may include ADHD, Autism, dyslexia, sensory processingdifferences, mobility limitations, chronic illness, anxiety or otheraccessibility needs.*
Would you be interested in coaching, mentorship, or learning approaches adapted for neurodiverse or physical accessibility needs?*
Which of the following supports would be helpful for you? (Check all that apply)

Visual aids or step-by-step guidesFlexible pacing or deadlinesQuiet or smaller-group settingsWritten summaries or follow-up materialsA mentor or coach familiar with neurodiversityAccessibility accommodations (mobility, sensory, etc.)Other
Optional Demographic Questions
Do you identify with any of the following communities? (Select all that apply)

2SLGBTQIA+IndigenousNewcomer to CanadaYouth entrepreneurWoman entrepreneurPrefer not to say
Are you comfortable being publicly acknowledged as such?*
Supporting Materials
Upload any supporting documents you would like to share with us (business plan, resume, pitch deck, cashflow, etc. (Optional)

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Is there anything else you would like us to know about you or your business?
Program Commitment

Successful applicants will be asked to pay a fee and sign a commitment letter agreeing to complete onlinecoursework, attend in-person seminars, work with a mentor and produce a plan within the 8-month program. By submitting this application you are indicating you understand the commitment required to participate in the program and are able to fulfil the program expectations.
Signature*
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SMARTstart Grande Prairie Application

Applicant Information

Business Overview

Business Description

Ownership Structure

Program Fit & Commitment

Goals & Program Questions

Program Interest

Optional Accessibility and Support Needs

Optional Demographic Questions

Supporting Materials

Program Commitment