The Side Family Centre for Entrepreneurial Excellence
Enhancing regional capacity and consolidating entrepreneurial services into a comprehensive hub in Northwestern Alberta.
Collaborative Efforts
The Side Family Centre for Entrepreneurial Excellence aims to assist new small and midsize enterprises (SMEs) and existing entrepreneurs in accessing business innovation services, mentoring, leveraging innovation opportunities, and commercializing ideas to achieve economic growth objectives. This regional approach will also invite strategic partners to streamline services into a convenient “one-stop shop” approach.
We can only imagine the creative and constructive possibilities that will emerge when this center for business ignites idea generation and regional interaction. This is truly a fitting tribute to Al’s passion for business and legacy.
- Linda Side
With the power of partnership in mind, NWP is also formalizing relationships through MOUs and agreements with academic institutions. These efforts will broaden collective experience, expertise, and knowledge, leading to enhanced potential and reach. This initiative draws inspiration from other reputable centres, which have shown increased success rates for new ventures, expanded sales, job growth, increased private investment, and stronger connections among entrepreneurs, community, industry, education, and collaborators. The Side Family CEE aims to accelerate the growth of high-impact businesses by boosting access to the necessary resources, technologies, and partnerships for sustainable growth.
Key Principles
1. Develop a Partner Resource Network
- Oil and Gas
- Forestry
- Agriculture
- Health Innovation
- Heavy Equipment
- Manufacturing
- Professional Service Providers
- Indigenous Communities
- Government - Municipal, Provincial, and Federal
- Government Agencies – Provincial and Federal
- Applied Research and Innovation
- Educational Partners
- Chambers of Commerce
- Business Leaders in all Sectors
- International Business Leaders
- Sustainability Organizations
- Retail Leaders
- Access to Capital
- Community
Location
The Side Family CEE will be established in the current Trades and Technology building alongside NWP’s Department of Continuing Education. This location offers separate facilities with dedicated parking for ease and accessibility. Being co-located with Continuing Education aligns with the expansion of professional development offerings, enhancing NWP’s educational portfolio.
Regional Impact
The aim of the Centre is to accelerate the growth of high-impact businesses, fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. This will attract investment, retain talent, and promote innovation, driving economic development in the region. By providing comprehensive support networks, access to resources, mentorship, and access to equipment, the Centre will facilitate the success of new ventures.
Growth and Development Opportunities
The Side Family CEE will enable businesses at various lifecycle stages from ideation to commercialization. This will allow partners to capitalize on growth opportunities, including attracting investment, talent retention, knowledge transfer, increased export opportunities, rural development, and sustainable economic growth.
Partnership and Alignment
The Centre will collaborate with government agencies and programs, focusing on industries such as health and agriculture technology, food security, and oil and gas technology. This timely venture also aligns with the Government of Alberta’s Strategic Business Plan and federal initiatives aimed at strengthening the economy.
Backed with a $3.2 million grant from Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan), the Centre will build local entrepreneurial skills and business capacity by enhancing service coordination within the Peace Region. There will be a pronounced focus on nurturing inclusive regional ecosystems that support businesses to innovate, grow, and compete.
Unique Value Proposition
The Side Family CEE distinguishes itself through the fostering robust partnerships among local and regional resource entities, bolstering new business and high-growth enterprises in innovation commercialization, offering tailored mentorship, and cultivating national and global alliances. A significant advantage in our locale lies in the unparalleled access to industry and practical field-testing environments, enabling rigorous real-world application and analysis.
Educational Impact
The project is positioned to inspire and empower domestic and international students to pursue entrepreneurial ventures. It underscores the importance of higher-level business and entrepreneurial education in shaping the future workforce. Overall, the Centre presents a holistic approach to fostering entrepreneurship, driving economic growth, and nurturing innovation in Northwestern Alberta.
Contact Us
For more information about The Side Family Centre for Entrepreneurial Excellence, please connect with Engage@NWPolytech.ca.