Have a business idea you’ve been wanting to bring to life? Whether you’re creating a product, offering a service, or already taking the first steps toward entrepreneurship, Ballad’s Self-Employment Launchpad can help you turn your idea into a sustainable business.
Designed for unemployed and underemployed Albertans, this program provides practical business training, personalized coaching, and mentorship to help you build the skills and confidence to become your own boss. You don’t need an established business to apply, just a viable idea and the motivation to make it happen.
To be eligible, you must:
- Be 18 years of age or older and reside in Alberta.
- Be unemployed or underemployed (working fewer than 20 hours per week).
- Be legally entitled to work in Canada.
- Have a feasible business idea you’d like to develop or launch.
- Be ready to commit to full-time entrepreneurship.
- Be willing to participate in business training, coaching, and development activities.
Program Location & Delivery
The program is delivered in person in Airdrie, with hybrid participation opportunities available for residents of Okotoks and Strathmore. Each program intake will offer a designated local location where participants can join the Airdrie-based training virtually, alternating between Okotoks and Strathmore.
The Self-Employment Launchpad program combines practical entrepreneurship training with hands-on business development to help you turn your idea into a sustainable business.
Throughout the program, you’ll apply what you learn directly to your own business idea, with personalized coaching and mentorship to support you as you work toward launch.
Business Planning & Development
- Entrepreneurship fundamentals and business models
- Business planning and financial forecasting
- Business operations and risk management
- Exploring business financing options
Marketing & Sales
- Market research and competitor analysis
- Identifying your target customers
- Marketing, branding, and sales strategies
- Creating marketing materials for your business
Digital Tools & Technology
- Using AI and digital tools for small businesses
- Building your business’s online presence
- Using technology and automation to support business operations
Business Launch & Implementation
- Developing and refining your business plan
- Preparing to launch your business
- Understanding early business operations and revenue generation
- Connecting with local business resources and networks
Additional Program Support
Alongside your training, you’ll have access to:
- Personalized Business Coaching: One-on-one guidance from experienced facilitators, business analysts, and mentors to help you develop your business and navigate challenges.
- Hands-On Business Development: Opportunities to put your training into practice by working directly on your own business idea.
- Mentorship & Networking: Peer roundtables, accountability sessions, and connections with fellow entrepreneurs and local business organizations.
- Ongoing Support: Follow-up support and access to community resources as you continue working toward your business goals.