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.
This fiscal year, via the Special Projects program, EDP was proud to support several rural initiatives across the Community Futures network that expand access, raise awareness, and create more disability-informed pathways into entrepreneurship.
LaunchPad (CF Highwood, CF Central & others)
EDP provided multi-year sponsorship support for LaunchPad, an online learning platform designed to be fully accessible for entrepreneurs with disabilities. The platform offers practical training and learning materials that meet entrepreneurs where they are — in flexible, inclusive formats. You can explore LaunchPad here.
Beyond the Summit Podcast (CF Grande Prairie & Region)
EDP sponsored a special episode of Beyond the Summit featuring the lived experience of a neurodivergent entrepreneur. This powerful conversation highlights both the challenges and strengths that come with building a business while navigating neurodiversity. Watch the episode here.
Hyperdrive Women in Business Summit 2026 (CF Grande Prairie & Region)
Through an EDP speaker sponsorship, entrepreneurs are able to access inclusive, relevant learning at Hyperdrive Women in Business Summit 2026, a summit focused on innovation, growth, and real-world business insights for all women entrepreneurs. Hyperdrive takes place this March. Learn more about the event here.
Youth Side Hustle (CF Meridian)
In partnership with CF Saskatchewan, EDP jointly sponsored Youth Side Hustle, a new and fully accessible entrepreneurship youth program supporting students, including places for those with disabilities, health conditions and/or neurodivergence. Program content places special emphasis on self-awareness, mental health, and disability-informed entrepreneurship. Take a look at the program here.
EDP Conference (CF Centre West)
EDP also partnered with Prospect Now to co-sponsor the Community Futures Centre West EDP Conference, providing accessible entrepreneurship education and speakers tailored specifically for clients with disabilities. The conference takes place in March - reach out to the Centre West office for more information here.
Business on the Lake: Bridging the Gap 2026 (CF Lesser Slave Lake & Region)
EDP supported speaker and ticket sponsorships to provide free local access for individuals with disabilities to attend this community event. Learn more about Business on the Lake 2026 here. It takes place this February.
Together, these projects reflect EDP’s commitment to building inclusive entrepreneurial opportunities — not just within our program, but across communities.
