Northwestern Polytechnic and Prairies Economic Development Canada have announced their joint support for an initiative that aims to build local entrepreneurial skills and business savvy in the Peace Region.
The Side Family Centre for Entrepreneurial Excellence is a multi-million-dollar initiative that aims to drive economic development and enhance regional competitiveness.
NWP President and CEO, Dr. Vanessa Sheane says the school is “truly excited” to see the project enter its next phase as NWP continues to look for development opportunities in the Peace.
“Like many of the business start-ups we ultimately support, NWP will continue to actively work within our communities and networks to curate the necessary interest and enthusiasm while identifying opportunities for shared value,” she says.
The case for the venture was developed by the polytech and submitted to PrairiesCan who recently greenlit $3.2 million in funding through PrairiesCan’s Regional Innovation Ecosystems program.
The project is described as a potential catalyst for bringing the academic and business community together due to the centre’s location within NWP’s Grande Prairie Campus.
Officials suggest that upon completion of the project, the centre will be “integral” in the acceleration of “high-impact” businesses through its contribution to the region’s innovation landscape.