Blog

Starting a business often begins with an idea, but turning that idea into something sustainable requires focus, strategy, and support. For Theresa Lynn, founder of Clarity at Work Ltd., the Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP) provided the coaching and accountability she needed to bring greater structure and clarity to her business.

For Evan Wile, Waverley Ranch represents more than a business — it’s a fresh start and a way of life grounded in family, hard work, and stewardship of the land.

Located on 64 acres outside of Drumheller, Waverley Ranch is a diversified hobby farm raising chickens for eggs and meat, turkeys, and alpacas for fibre, while also grazing cattle and producing hay. Each element of the operation reflects Evan’s commitment to building something sustainable and meaningful in rural Alberta.

For Ruby Cole‑Ellis, building ROSE Magazine was about more than launching a business — it was about creating a meaningful platform for connection, storytelling, and personal growth.

ROSE Magazine is a digital community designed for millennial women, exploring modern womanhood through thoughtful editorial content, social media, and collaborative storytelling. Operating primarily online, the platform brings together contributors and readers in a space that is both creative and empowering.

Starting a business for the first time can feel overwhelming, especially when confidence is still growing and the path forward isn’t always clear. For Brenda Schultz, co-owner of Paws in the City in Red Deer, Alberta, the journey into entrepreneurship came with uncertainty, but also a passion to create high-quality, all-natural products for dogs and their owners.

At the Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program, we know that building an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem takes more than one-to-one coaching alone. It also means investing in learning opportunities, conversations, and events that improve general accessibility for entrepreneurs with disabilities and health-related barriers.

Special Projects funding from EDP Alberta helped Community Futures Meridian Region design and deliver a practical, inclusive way for rural youth to learn the basics of small business ownership. All 10 seats filled within 7 days, and every participant completed the program by October 2025.

 At Community Futures Alberta, our Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP) is designed to help rural entrepreneurs overcome barriers and build businesses that fit their lives. Today, we’re proud to share the inspiring journey of Bonnie Kroeker, owner of Wiggle Butts Day Home—a safe haven for dogs that’s rooted in trust, compassion, and community.