Supporting new entrepreneurs: The Business Experience Program

Starting a new business can be a daunting journey for anyone. From understanding licencing to navigating health and safety permits, the information can be overwhelming.

That’s where The City’s Business Experience Program comes in, giving new entrepreneurs the one-on-one support they need to take ideas from concept to reality.

Launched 2022, the program assigns every new business licence applicant with a file manager who ensures they understand the process and apply for the right permits to create faster outcomes. The file manager is there to guide applicants through each step of the application and answer any questions along the way.

Ann Sager is a Business Experience Representative and has been part of the team since the program began.

“There’s a lot of information to sift through, so we’re able to break it down into chunks and explain why and how they need to move forward,” she explains. “I love helping people and making sure they have the knowledge they need to open a business. It’s super rewarding and fun to be part of that journey.”

“We advise them and reach out along the way about what’s required, what’s outstanding and what they can expect. We also field lots of questions about who to contact at Alberta Health Services or the Fire Department, how Alberta Liquor and Gaming Commission (AGLC) works, how Alberta Motor Vehicle Industry Council (AMVIC) licensing works. We pretty much guide the new business through the business licensing process,” adds Sager.

Launching a business can be even more overwhelming when you’re new to the city, which is why the Business Experience team also partners with community organizations like the Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS) to help newcomers understand what it takes to start a business.

Members of the Business Experience team present at CCIS’s seminars, which is part of their 10-week Newcomer Entrepreneur Program.

“It’s a class for entrepreneurs that are new to Canada, and we have been invited to help students go through the business licencing process. We educate them about the purpose of a business licence, why you need one, and why they’re important for public safety,” says Sager.

Bibiana Cala is the Entrepreneurship Programs Coordinator for CCIS and says it’s been helpful for newcomers to connect directly with The City during the seminars.

“It's been so important, and I know because I'm an immigrant. I was there 16 years ago when I opened my first business as well. It's a little bit intimidating, so seeing a person and having a name makes things way easier,” says Cala. “It breaks down a bit of the barrier between a newcomer and the government.”

“They show us the process you need to go through for license and registrations with The City. We’re constantly learning about new programs and new services from The City. They provide us with contact information to follow up directly with them because they have a lot of specific questions about their businesses,” she explains.

CCIS offers four intakes for their entrepreneurship program each year with around 15 - 20 successful applicants in each group. The next intake for January 2025 is already full.

“People really appreciate the program. They tell me, ‘I can't believe this is a free program!’ It blows their minds because that doesn't happen in their countries. That’s why I'm super passionate about making a good program and having The City involved is amazing. It just breaks those barriers to know that the government is there for them,” adds Cala.

As for the Business Experience Team, they’re happy to play a key part in launching successful businesses.

“What I love about the program is I’m able to develop a relationship with people. It’s really fun to see a business owner that had no idea what they’re doing in the beginning to get their licence at the end,” says Sager.

For more information on the Business Experience program, visit Calgary.ca/Business.