SMARTstart Program

About

SMARTstart is a made-in-Alberta entrepreneurial training program that provides practical business tools, mentorship and business planning support. The program combines three components:

1. Online learning
2. In-person seminars
3. Mentorship

The program is designed for entrepreneurs with a validated business idea and business owners who have been operating for less than three years. Each year, up to 20 entrepreneurs and 20 mentors can participate in the program

Application Process

To participate, entrepreneurs must apply and be accepted into the program. Applicants are encouraged to provide detailed responses and supporting materials such as a resumé, draft business plan, market research or a two-minute pitch video.

Review the SMARTstart application questions to help prepare your application.

Applications are currently closed and will reopen in January 2027. 

Learning

Plan Creation

Having a plan is what SMARTstart is all about.

Entrepreneurs walk away from SMARTstart with a plan they have created to set their business up for success.  Mentors and program organizers provide tools and support to entrepreneurs ss they create their plan.

One of three plans are to be completed: business plan, feasibility study, or strategic plan

The creation of a plan is foundational to SMARTstart. It is expected all participants complete or update a plan by the end of the program.

Eligibility

• People with a validated business idea and new business owners that have been operating for less than 3 years
• Spruce Grove residents or entrepreneurs who have or will have a business located within Spruce Grove
• 18 years of age or older

Time commitment

• People with a validated business idea and new business owners that have been operating for less than 3 years
• Spruce Grove residents or entrepreneurs who have or will have a business located within Spruce Grove
• 18 years of age or older

Selection Process

A committee comprised of business advisors, bankers, and program organizers review applications.

Due to the popularity of SMARTstart, not all applicants are accepted into the program.

Program Cost

This program costs $295 + GST, which provides tools, mentorship, and business planning over 8 months to help entrepreneurs succeed.

Questions?

Contact Monique Pelletier at mpelletier@sprucegrove.org or at (780) 962-7634 Ext. 519.