Spring is here in Alberta—and with it comes a fresh wave of opportunity for young people to explore entrepreneurship, build confidence, and discover what’s possible for their future.
Across the province, Community Futures offices are once again launching their youth programs, offering hands-on, supportive learning experiences designed to spark creativity, independence, and business skills. These programs are open to all youth, including those living with disabilities, long-term health conditions, or neurodivergence. Every Community Futures office is committed to creating inclusive, welcoming spaces where young people can learn in ways that work for them.
If you have a young person in your life who is curious about starting a business, earning their own income, or simply trying something new this summer, now is the perfect time to connect with your local Community Futures office.
Lemonade Day: Big Lessons from Small Businesses
Offered in multiple Community Futures regions across Alberta, Lemonade Day is a fun and engaging program that introduces youth to entrepreneurship by helping them launch their very own lemonade stand.
Community Futures North Central shared how their program is designed to be inclusive and accessible for kids of all abilities and strengths. Over the years, they’ve supported participants with autism, learning differences, and other disabilities—ensuring every child can take part and succeed.
Through “Lemonade University,” youth receive guided instruction, tools, and encouragement from Community Futures staff to set goals and build a plan for their business. On Lemonade Day, participants bring their ideas to life. They run their stands, serve customers, and even take part in friendly contests.
The experience helps young entrepreneurs build confidence, independence, and practical skills, while learning valuable lessons about earning, saving, spending, and giving back.
Learn more about Lemonade Day in Northern Alberta: https://local.lemonadeday.org/northern-alberta
Youth Side Hustle: Turning Ideas into Action
Community Futures Meridian Region recently launched an exciting initiative to support youth on their entrepreneurial journey: the Youth Side Hustle program.
Partially funded through the Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP) in Alberta and Saskatchewan, this free program was created to support youth across Alberta and Saskatchewan, including youth living with disabilities, health conditions, anxiety, ADHD, neurodivergence, and other barriers who may benefit from flexible and alternative pathways into entrepreneurship and self-employment.
Participants work through a series of engaging online modules covering topics like business planning, branding, pricing, and social media, while receiving mentorship and personalized guidance along the way. The results? Real businesses brought to life; from candle-making and handmade jewelry to music production and agriculture ventures.
Beyond practical skills, Youth Side Hustle helps participants build confidence and see entrepreneurship as a viable path forward—on their own terms.
Learn more about Youth Side Hustle: https://cfsask.ca/meridian-programs/youth-side-hustle-meridian
YETI: For Big Ideas That Haven’t Met the World… Yet
For older youth ready to take their business ideas further, the Young Entrepreneurs Training Initiative (YETI) offers an immersive, real-world experience.
Led by Community Futures Capital Region and delivered in partnership with other offices, YETI is a fast-paced summer program designed for senior high school students who want to turn an idea into a viable business.
With startup funding, four days of hands-on training, and ongoing mentorship, participants gain the tools and confidence to launch and operate their own business over the summer. The program is intentionally practical and focused on real-world experience that builds skills for employment, post-secondary applications, and future entrepreneurial success.
Like all Community Futures programming, YETI is designed to be inclusive and supportive of youth with diverse needs, strengths, and learning styles—including those navigating disabilities, health conditions, or neurodivergence.
Learn more at: https://capitalregion.albertacf.com/services/business-training-programs/yeti
Discover What’s Available in Your Community
These are just a few examples of the youth programming offered through Community Futures offices across Alberta. Each region brings its own approach, but all share a commitment to inclusion, accessibility, and empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Whether your young person is outgoing or reserved, creative or analytical, experienced or just starting out, there’s a place for them to explore, learn, and grow.
Find your local Community Futures office and discover youth programs near you: https://albertacf.com/contact-us
