ABOUT THE PROGRAM
Locally, we’ve handpicked a pool of skilled business experts from the community offering guidance to entrepreneurs that are starting up, scaling, or pivoting their business. Work closely with mentor groups of 2 to 3 professionals for practical coaching aimed at building resilient entrepreneurs. Whether you seek mentorship or are ready to mentor, this program is designed just for you.
In this program, mentors provide coaching rather than direct advice, fostering an environment where entrepreneurs can develop their problem-solving skills and gain valuable insights through guided discussions. This coaching approach emphasizes the mentees' growth and decision-making autonomy, contributing to the overall resilience of the entrepreneurs in our community. The mentorship groups meet on a monthly basis to ensure consistent support and guidance.
Our Mentorship Program is modelled after the renowned Venture Mentoring Services (VMS) program developed by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). With a proven track record, MIT VMS has established over 100 sister programs worldwide, including three in Alberta. Aligning with MIT VMS principles, we ensure a globally recognized standard of mentorship excellence for entrepreneurs in our community.
Why Become a Mentee?
As a mentee in our program, you’ll receive:
Personalized guidance for business challenges
Continuous learning and skill enhancement
Help in validating your ideas
Diverse perspectives and experiences
Strategic network expansion
Enhanced communication and leadership skills
Motivation and accountability
Why Become a Mentor?
As a mentor in our program, you’ll be able to:
Share your expertise and make a meaningful impact in our entrepreneurial community
Contribute to the growth of the local businesses
Expand your professional network by connecting with other experienced mentors
Stay updated on trends and challenges
Enhance your leadership and coaching skills through experiential learning and professional development opportunities
Qualification Criteria for Becoming a Mentee:
Must be the owner, founder, or controlling shareholder of the company, with primary responsibility for its operations. Co-founders are eligible, but each company must designate one main point of contact.
Must have a clear business idea or concept, demonstrating readiness for mentorship.
Must be available and willing to participate in an interview process and prepare a five-minute pitch of your business.
Demonstrate a willingness to receive constructive feedback and implement recommendations to improve your business.
Have clear goals or areas they wish to focus on, such as scaling operations, marketing, financial planning, hiring staff, etc.
Must be based out of Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo and actively participating in the local entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Qualification Criteria for Becoming a Mentor:
Demonstrate significant experience and expertise in relevant areas of business, enabling you to provide valuable insights and guidance
Demonstrate a strong commitment to fostering the growth and success of emerging entrepreneurs.
Be able to showcase your recognition and support from broader professional network and highlight achievements and credibility indicators.
Willingness to engage in a team mentorship model, collaborating with 2-3 professionals to provide comprehensive support to mentees.
Attend mentor training as well as complimentary leadership training sessions provided by Level 52 (October 9, 16, 23 & 30)
Must be based out of Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo and available for in-person meetings.
Be willing to meet with your mentee 1-3 times per quarter, ensuring consistent and meaningful mentorship engagement.
Be willing and able to commit 2 to 6 hours to the program per month.
The Venture Mentorship Program holds two intake periods each year, in the Spring and Fall.
Our next intake is scheduled for Fall 2024. While mentors and mentees are welcome to apply at any time, please be aware that the interviewing process will not commence until September 2024.