BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT: DJ FIREWOOD
DJ Firewood is a family owned local business that is located approximately two kilometers west of Wainwright. They have supplied the firewood needs for the M.D. of Wainwright No.61 for three years, and many of the surrounding communities as well!

They will deliver as far away as your needs require! Fast, friendly, and always ready to answer any questions regarding species, custom cutting, or moisture content.

Check out their Facebook page to find giveaways and customer reviews!
FTR GOLF IN THE RURAL PITCH COMPETITION
We are pleased to announce that local business, FTR Golf, will be competing in the Rural Innovation Network Pitch-Up Rural Pitch Competition on April 5th.

Pitch-Up! offers Alberta-based entrepreneurs a provincial stage, a chance to be seen by the community, practice their pitch, and get in front of potential investors.

It is free to attend and anyone is welcome to check it out.
LAST DAY TO ENTER WEBSITE SCAVENGER HUNT CONTEST
RESTAURANTEUR GRANT FUNDING
Alberta Hospitality Association has been granted funds for an industry-specific campaign that will allow Alberta restauranteurs to receive $5,000.00 worth of government funding to help alleviate labour costs, in an effort to introduce passionate individuals to the hospitality sector.

The grant allows restaurants to hire post-secondary students who are actively seeking roles within the hospitality sector - this includes service and kitchen-related positions, management, marketing, administrative and tech support.
HEALTH CARE AIDE INFO NIGHT
Excel at offering in-demand, quality care as a health care aide. 

You’ll be on the front lines in less than year with Lakeland College's full-time Blended learning program in Wainwright - online theory, weekday labs, and 3 practicum.

Up to $9,000 in bursaries are available from the Alberta Government to take the Health Care Aide program.

Learn more at the Health Care Aide Information Night on Tuesday, April 16th at 7pm at the Wainwright Communiplex.
TECHNOLOGY ON DEMAND PROGRAM
What would you do if you could add a technology expert to your staff for the next 3 months? What if this expert was focused on helping your business work through some technology challenges?

The East Central Alberta Regional Innovation Network is thrilled to introduce our new program: Technology Expert on Demand.
 
What is the Technology Expert on Demand program?
The Technology Expert on Demand program offers a unique opportunity to embed a fractional Chief Technology Officer (CTO) or Chief Innovation Officer (CIO) in your company for approximately 3 months. This expert will work closely with your team to understand your processes, assess your current technology infrastructure, and help address any challenges or gaps you may be facing.
 
How can a Tech Expert on Demand help?
Our Tech Expert on Demand could assist with a wide range of areas, including but not limited to:
  • Assessing employee tech ability and providing training solutions.
  • Bridging the gap between management and IT needs.
  • Evaluating and recommending project management software.
  • Enhancing data storage, retrieval, and security measures.
  • Implementing inventory management solutions.
  • Optimizing customer-facing applications, websites, or services.
  • Exploring automation, AI, and machine learning opportunities.
  • Addressing remote work challenges and providing support.
  • Facilitating technology integration and digital transformation initiatives.
  • Navigating the dynamics of a new age workforce alongside traditional employment practices.
 
Why should you consider this program?
By participating in our Technology Expert on Demand program, you'll gain invaluable insights, strategic guidance, and hands-on support from a seasoned technology professional. This is an opportunity to leverage external expertise without the long-term commitment, providing you with the flexibility and resources needed to tackle your technology challenges head-on.
 
How to get started:
If you're interested in learning more about our Technology Expert on Demand program or would like to explore how it can benefit your organization, please fill out the form below to express your interest.
TRAVEL ALBERTA FUNDING
The Travel Alberta Events & Festivals Fund is open for applications until March 25th.

Your business is eligible if it fits into at least one of the following categories: 
  • Alberta-based tourism businesses
  • Indigenous tourism businesses
  • Not-for-profit organizations and municipalities with a focus on tourism

The Investment range is up to $150,000 with 25% fund matching required. Additional funding available on a case-by-case basis.

Priorities:
  • Events and festivals that are two or more days in length and target overnight visitation 
  • Events and festivals that charge an admission fee 
  • Showcase collaboration with other Alberta tourism partners 
  • Events and festivals occurring between April 1, 2024 and March 31, 2025
YOUTH AGRICULTURE EMPLOYMENT FUNDING
Agriculture Canada recently announced funding of approximately $13.5 million to support a new application intake under the Youth Employment and Skills Program. The initiative will provide the agricultural sector with help needed to support approximately 1,200 jobs for youth in the sector. Employers can apply between February 26, 2024 and March 25, 2024 for their project to be considered.
 
Each project will be eligible to receive up to $14,000 in matching funds to employ one (1) employee. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada is one of several Government of Canada departments participating in the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy.
INVENTURES 2024 CONFERENCE
From May 29 - 31, immerse yourself in a world of fresh insights, influential speakers, and unmatched networking experiences at Inventures 2024 in Calgary. Meet like-minded individuals who share your passion for innovation and seize the opportunity to forge valuable partnerships that can propel your business forward.

Discounted tickets may be available. Please contact Economic Development Officer Carley Herbert at 780-842-3381 or cherbert@wainwright.ca for information.
LEARNING SURVEY
2024 BIZ BOX
For the past two years, we have enjoyed curating the Wainwright Biz Box. However, as they say, all good things must come to an end, and 2024 marks the final year for our Biz Box. We're determined to make this year's edition the best yet!

Applications for the 2024 Wainwright Biz Box will be available in April.

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor or vendor please stay tuned or contact Chelsey Eklund, Planning & Economic Development Assistant at ceklund@wainwright.ca
LOCAL PROCUREMENT OPPORTUNITIES
In order to assist local business in gaining information on business opportunities with local municipalities, Wainwright Garrison etc., the Wainwright Economic Development Office will periodically send out opportunities to businesses that are listed on   merx.com  and CanadaBuys that pertain particularly to Wainwright and area.

These are systems used by the Government for procurement of goods and services over $25,000.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT FUND
The Town of Wainwright offers funding to community groups or organizations providing an event or activity that will encourage positive economic activity in the community. Funding is made available annually through the Town of Wainwright’s Economic Development Support Fund Budget.

Please find below our application form with details on criteria, funding levels etc. 

For more information about this funding opportunity please contact Carley Herbert, Economic Development Officer at 780-842-3381 or by email cherbert@wainwright.ca
UPCOMING BUSINESS EDUCATION
ALBERTA WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS
BUSINESS LINK
STARTUP LLOYDMINSTER
EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS WEBINARS
Employment Standards in Alberta – Administration and Enforcement
March 26, 2024 1:30pm

Temporary Foreign Worker Advisory Office – TFW & Employer Rights and Responsibilities
March 27, 2024 10:30am

Employment Standards in Alberta – Wages and Overtime
April 10, 2024 10:30pm
NON-PROFIT WEBINARS
Alberta Government has a great lineup of live free webinars in the areas of non-profit board development, governance, grant writing, and many more:
  • Board Development Program
  • Understanding Your Legal Landscape Webinar
  • Board Roles and Responsibilities
  • Legal Responsibilities
  • Organizational Purpose and Planning
  • Financial Responsibilities
  • Risk Management
  • Committees and Meetings
  • Building Strong Teams and Effective Relationships
  • Basic Facilitation Skills
GRANTS AND FUNDING PROGRAMS
General

Industry-specific

Youth and Apprenticeships
BUSINESS RESOURCES
WAINWRIGHT APPAREL AVAILABLE
Wainwright hoodies, golf shirts, tanks, t-shirts, hats, toques and bandanas are available for sale. Many sizes and colors are available in stock and ready to be picked up.  

Please visit the Town Office at 1018 - 2 Avenue or contact Chelsey Eklund at ceklund@wainwright.ca for more information.
ECONOMY STATISTICS
While every effort is made to ensure the currency, accuracy and completeness of the information provided, the Town of Wainwright (Wainwright Economic Development) is not liable for any loss, claim or demand arising directly or indirectly from any use or reliance upon the information provided.