Community Futures Chinook

08/27/2026

Summer’s winding down, and if you’re a business owner, that shift in the air means something: planning season is here.

Q4 has a way of sneaking up - holiday prep, year-end numbers, staffing changes, and suddenly it’s January and you’re reacting instead of planning.

The businesses that come out of winter strong are usually the ones that sat down in the fall and mapped out what’s next.

That’s exactly what a Community Futures Chinook advisor is here for and it’s FREE!

Whether you need help tightening up your business plan, thinking through an expansion, or just want a second set of eyes before things get busy, now’s the time to book that conversation.

📞 Give us a call or send us a message to set up your fall check-in. Let’s make sure Q4 works for you, not against you.

08/06/2026

From home-based groomer to full-service pet hub 🐾

Anna Hawkins started Pawparazzi Pet Services out of her home in September 2023. With support from Community Futures Chinook, she took the leap into a commercial retail space in Taber.

Today, Pawparazzi offers dog and cat grooming, pet photography, canine massage, pet transport, dog walking, home visits, and a retail & consignment boutique. And she’s not slowing down - pet first aid courses, dog training, puppy-prep classes, and grooming apprenticeships are all on the horizon.

“I want to provide an all-inclusive hub of pet-related services, resources, sales, and workshops to the pet owners of Taber and the surrounding area,” says Anna.

Small business, big heart - built for the love of animals and the people who adore them. 🐶🐱

Head to our website to read the full article!

07/24/2026

Tariffs changed overnight for a lot of Alberta small businesses this year - 63% saw costs go up, over half saw profits drop.

If your supply chain touches the border at all, your cash reserve needs to be bigger than you think.

Not because you did anything wrong - because the ground can shift fast.

Building your buffer? Our advisors can help you plan for it.

07/17/2026

Profitable on paper. Broke in the bank account.

It happens more than you'd think.

A profit and loss statement won't tell you if you can make payroll next Friday - only your cash flow will. Track both, weekly, not just at month-end.

Which one are you actually watching right now? 👇

07/10/2026

Quick question: if your revenue stopped tomorrow, how many days could your business actually survive?

Most owners have never done this math.

Cash flow was named the #1 stressor for Canadian entrepreneurs last year - ahead of inflation, ahead of everything. Calculate your number this week.

Reach out to our free business advisors today to help you plan!

07/08/2026

Our Community Vibrancy Grant is now open for applications for Budget 2027! The deadline is 4:30 PM on Friday, August 7th. Full details & application form: www.taber.ca/grants

07/06/2026

Free Class 3 Driver Training - Right Here in Southern Alberta

Thinking about a career in agriculture or transportation? Safety Buzz Campus's Wheels of Opportunity program can help you get your Class 3 licence - fully funded.

Eligible participants can receive over $3,600 in training support, covering:
✅ Class 3 Driver Training
✅ Air Brakes Certification
✅ Simulator Training
✅ Essential Safety & Equipment Training

This program is built for youth, career changers, underrepresented groups, and anyone looking to break into Alberta's agriculture sector -no prior driving experience required.

You'll also get support beyond the classroom, including resume help, job search assistance, mentorship, and direct connections to employers.

📍 Training happens locally, with a clear path to real jobs in agriculture and transportation.

Ready to explore it? Apply directly at wheelsofopportunity.ca or reach out to Safety Buzz Campus at [email protected] / (403) 526-8400.

06/22/2026

Every great build starts with the right foundation…and the right financing. 🔨

Our Builders Bridge & Completion Loan Program helps local construction businesses keep projects moving from start to completion. Whether you need to cover working capital, materials, or labour, we offer flexible financing solutions designed for every stage of your project.

✅ Borrow up to $300,000
✅ Terms up to 5 years
✅ Fixed interest rate
✅ Interest-only payments for up to 12 months

With breathing room when you need it most, you can bridge financial gaps and keep your project on track.

Available exclusively for construction-related business use.

Let’s build it together. Reach out to one of our business advisors today!

06/15/2026

Before you spend a dollar on your business idea, ask yourself these four questions.

A great idea isn't enough on its own. The most successful businesses solve a problem, fill a need, or create value that people are willing to pay for.

Before investing your time and money, ask yourself:
✓ Who would buy this?
✓ What problem does it solve?
✓ Why would someone choose it?
✓ How are people solving this problem today?

The best way to find out? Talk to potential customers, test your idea on a small scale, and be open to honest feedback.

Thinking about starting a business but not sure where to begin? Our business advisors can help you evaluate your idea, identify opportunities, and build a plan for success.

📍 Serving entrepreneurs across Southern Alberta.

Make an appointment at your local Community Futures office to take advantage of free business advice, or begin the loan application process. Get in touch.