We're a community- and volunteer-driven venture studio that works alongside founders to co-create missional businesses here in Calgary.
Our mission
Doing business a little differently
The traditional pursuit of profit-first growth has often come at the expense of people and communities. Conventional funding models tend to widen inequality and push founders toward unsustainable, high-growth paths.
We believe there’s a better way, one that values impact alongside innovation, and proves that meaningful businesses can thrive without sacrificing values for velocity.
We see areas for the marginalized and under-served to be supported across our communities, but here are some of the most pressing issues we've highlighted to work on.
The food system
Everything from harvesting & processing to distribution and mitigating waste throughout the supply chain.
Education & upskilling
Education models that build a resilient workforce and lift individuals out of poverty through relevant training.
Community development
Ventures that build safe spaces and safe neighbourhoods and connect communities in meaningful ways.
Mental health & resilience
Interventions that build emotional intelligence or provide access to local services and supports.
Affordable housing
Creative housing models and financing plays that make home ownership accessible & affordable.
Financial empowerment
Tools that build financial literacy in underserved populations and provide financial services that build financial freedom.
Health care access
Interventions in the Health Care system that cut down on wait times and increase access to care.
Anything we missed?
Let us know where you see gaps in society and how you want to address them together!
Our model
We'll help you build the future
Our team of volunteers, mentors, and experts are here to guide you alongside our partner communities to ideate and build solutions that lead to meaningful change.
Phase 1
Design & prototype
Work alongside communities and our team to dig into your customer's needs, validate your assumptions, and co-design and pressure-test potential solutions.
Phase 2
Build & scale
Build out your solution, bring it to market, and leverage creative funding methods to include your customers in value creation and expansion.
Curious to learn more about our model? Hopefully these questions cover a few of those bases.
How much does the program cost?
There's no cost to participate in our fellowship program, just a dedication and commitment to investing the time needed to build a prototype.
How do you guys make money?
Right now, we're not focused on making profits but building a community of changemakers and launching businesses together. As we grow, we may explore avenues to be more self-sustaining as a business.
Is this only for people in Calgary?
We're only focused on Calgary at the moment, but will look at expanding as the opportunities allow for. If you live in another region, you can still participate as a volunteer or advisor.
Interested in joining the cause?
Join our team of volunteers to help shape and build mission-driven businesses in Calgary.
