MacEwan Ventures Program
About the Project
The MacEwan Ventures program, a partnership between BCW and MacEwan University, was created to address a critical gap: many aspiring entrepreneurs have strong business ideas but lack the skills to refine them, test feasibility, and determine whether they can succeed in the market.
Through this program, participants gain practical tools to transform ideas into actionable business models, validate customer needs, and build confidence in pitching. They also develop essential skills in selling, marketing, and networking, ensuring they are prepared to position their ventures for success.
The program is primarily designed to empower women and racialized communities, but is also inclusive of men and open to other groups, ensuring broad community access while maintaining a strong equity focus.
This initiative was generously supported by MacEwan University, making it completely free of charge for all participants.
The data shows high satisfaction (88%), universal confidence-building (100%), and strong future interest (100%), confirming that the program delivers meaningful impact while also highlighting opportunities for enhancement in mentorship, technology integration, and flexible delivery.
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Delivered in 8 weekly sessions on Thursdays from 6:00 – 8:00 PM at MacEwan University, the program includes expert-led workshops and hands-on activities in:
Developing and managing a budget and cash flow.
Pitching and selling business ideas.
Storytelling for presentations and public speaking.
Project management.
Leadership and team building.
Validating customer needs and testing feasibility.
Building prototypes and leveraging MacEwan’s resources.
Networking and marketing strategies to promote ventures
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The program primarily serves women, racialized entrepreneurs, and newcomers, while remaining inclusive to men and other community members. It provides a supportive and culturally responsive environment where diverse participants can refine their ideas, strengthen entrepreneurial skills, and grow their professional networks.
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Cohorts: The program is now in its second cohort following the strong success of the first. Each cohort spans 8 weeks.
Satisfaction:
88% reported being “very satisfied.”
12% reported being “satisfied.”
0% reported dissatisfaction.
Recommendation Likelihood:
5% said they were “extremely likely” to recommend the program.
25% said they were “likely” to recommend.
Expectations:
50% said the program “exceeded expectations.”
50% said it “met expectations.”
Confidence Building:
100% of participants reported leaving with more confidence to apply their skills.
A portion described themselves as “much more confident.”
Program Delivery:
100% rated organization, facilitation, and knowledge of instructors as “Excellent.”
100% found the program content very relevant to their entrepreneurial needs.
Key Takeaways Identified by Participants:
Defining and targeting customer markets.
Building confidence in pitching and public speaking.
Discovering niche opportunities and developing MVPs.
Networking, storytelling, and marketing strategies.
Future Interest: 100% indicated they would consider taking further courses at MacEwan University.
Venue Feedback: Participants praised MacEwan University as accessible, professional, and welcoming.
