Ten up-and-coming local entrepreneurs were celebrated on Wednesday, Oct. 23, as they became the eleventh cohort of SMARTstart Airdrie graduates. The entrepreneurs spent the last eight months refining their idea for a new business or working to strengthen their existing businesses by taking part in workshops, business skills training, networking and one-on one support with a mentor, all facilitated by the made in-Airdrie entrepreneurial training program. The award-winning program is delivered by City of Airdrie Economic Development and Community Futures Centre West.
“The 2024 group of entrepreneurs are finishing the program with a business, strategic or feasibility plan that will guide their businesses and create a foundation for success,” says Jessica Williamson, SMARTstart Organizing Committee member. “They have also built connections with their mentors, local business professionals, business support organizations and SMARTstart alumni. This community will continue to rally around the entrepreneurs to support their business growth.”
The 2024 participants recognized at the event were:
• Allissa Blondin, The Feathered Pen
• Chelsie Schmidt, Chelsie Rae Photography
• Ian Irvine, Twin Oaks Telehealth Services
• Mitch Colp, Hexagon Psychology
• Sharity Mackintosh, Honeybee Housekeeping
• Yvonne Koprnicky, Sundog Studios
• Caira Haynes, Revolution Health Coaching
• Ellen Wolfe, Yoga Room Elements
• Lesley Stasiuk, Daytona Beach Seafood Tacos
• Pamela McLeod, Vintage Apothecary
These participants now join a robust alumni group of 154 entrepreneurs that have completed SMARTstart training, going on to grow businesses like Byoode Bar, Maxi Foods, Royal Appliance Repair, Airdrie Acupuncture and 948 Brewing Company.
Dr. Mitch Colp, a 2024 SMARTstart entrepreneur and chief executive officer of Hexagon Psychology, credits the program for supporting his growth as a new business owner.
“As a business owner in a rapidly growing company, the SMARTstart program provided me with invaluable tools and insights that went beyond day-to-day operations. The mentorship, networking and structured learning gave me the foundation to strategically scale the business while streamlining our services to meet growing demand. The program not only helped me navigate the challenges of rapid growth but also connected me with an incredible support network that the City of Airdrie offers to business owners. It’s been a game-changer for our growth trajectory.”
Also celebrated were more than 20 local business leaders who volunteer as SMARTstart mentors and workshop presenters. This year Heather Harke was honoured for her fifth year of mentorship. Jennifer Benner received recognition for ten years of mentorship with the program.
SMARTstart is currently recruiting participants for the 2025 program, which runs February through September. Applications are open until Dec. 9, 2024. Entrepreneurs with a validated idea or new businesses (in operation for less than three years) are invited to learn more at one of the upcoming information sessions happening on Nov. 6, at 12:00 p.m. or Nov. 28, at 7:00 p.m.
To learn more, visit www.airdriecommon.ca/smartstart or e-mail info@airdriecommon.ca.
The program is made possible with support from the following sponsors:
• Seminar Sponsors: BDC, MNP
• Media Sponsors: Air 106.1 FM, Airdrie City View, airdrielife
• Encore Event Sponsor: Beckie Ryan
• Entrepreneur Sponsors: Blessingways Family Wellness, NWEL Holdings Ltd.
• Sponsored Sessions Sponsors: Desai Wealth Management, iEvolve Media, SK Legal
2024 SMARTstart mentors:
• Melanie Beingessner, Blessingways Family Wellness
• Jennifer Benner, Benner Database Designs
• Shelley Bitz, Bank of Montreal
• Tia Callaway, Sonic Coaching
• Ankur Goklaney, CIR Realty
• Tracy Goodbrand, Irricana Kountry Kennel
• Heather Harke, former owner of Shoplift Deals Limited
• Kari Lines, Budget Blinds of Airdrie
• Gary Manocha, Condor Integrity CPA
• Dawnie McElligott, At Dawn Wellness
• Kelly Paisley, The I.T. Company
• Brent Park, Liquid Amber Landscape Management
• Tara Pickford, Ambition Performing Arts
• Michelle Tennant, LochSmith Consulting
• Joan Traub, former owner of Airdrie Yoga Studio
• Steve Walker-Duncan, Red Deer Polytechnic
• Jo-Anne Yau, Miles Davison LLP
