Introducing the CIC
What is the CIC?
The Calgary Innovation Coalition (CIC) is a group of organizations in the Calgary region that support innovation-driven entrepreneurs, startups, and enterprises. Our collective presents a single vision and voice regarding the priorities of Calgary’s innovation community, a unique model for collaboration in Alberta's innovation ecosystem.
The CIC is supported by Alberta Innovates' Accelerator Expansion Support stream. Incubators are located across the province, to support innovative businesses, entrepreneur development and job creation for the growth and diversification of the Alberta economy.
How does it work?
The CIC supports Business Development Advisors (BDA’s) who primarily work with Calgary-based early stage technology companies to refine and improve their business models through one-on-one advising and community workshops such as Business Model Canvas 101, 201 & 301.
BDA’s may also approve eligible companies for voucher funding from the Alberta Innovates’ Alberta Entrepreneurship Incubator (AEI) Program. For full details about voucher funding criteria and eligibility, refer to our FAQ.
How can I access voucher funding?
1. Attend a Startup Calgary Business Model Canvas (BMC) workshop
2. Complete our contact form below and email a completed BMC to bmc@calgaryinnovationcoalition.ca
3. Once you receive feedback, work with a BDA to refine and improve your business model
4. If eligible and approved by a BDA for funding, submit a funding application
Prior to applying for funding, our BDA’s recommend familiarizing yourself with the Business Model Canvas, as well as attending events within the local startup community.
Resources
Here are some helpful community resources and events worth exploring:
Startup Calgary - attend at least one Business Model Canvas Workshop (101, 201, & 301) and subscribe as a community member to receive email updates on upcoming events
Business Model Canvas videos and template - free downloadable template from Canvanizer and Strategyzer
Calgary Technologies Inc. - learn more about programs, coworking space, and mentor programs
Rainforest Alberta - attend a weekly Lunch Without Lunch and meet fellow members of the innovation ecosystem
AlbertaIN - view a directory of entrepreneurial resources and service providers
Calgary Innovation Coalition Systems Map - download a copy of the systems map
Core Members
We welcome sharing our experience! If intrigued, please contact PMO@calgaryinnovationcoalition.ca
Connect
Members of the CIC are working collaboratively to create a stronger ecosystem for entrepreneurs. If you are a technology-focused entrepreneur who has already taken a Business Model Canvas workshop and you’re looking for feedback on your business model, please complete the form below:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the CIC?
The Calgary Innovation Coalition (CIC) was formed in 2016 in response to Alberta Innovates’ (AI) offer of grant dollars into the regional innovation networks (RIN) across the province for entrepreneurial support and development. Rather than flow the money into a single entity for distribution, a collective of 17 organizations came together and presented a single vision of the priorities for Calgary’s innovation community to the Government.
What resources are provided by the CIC?
The CIC funds Business Development Advisors who support and educate entrepreneurs. They provide specific, skill-based support, advice, mentorship and access to voucher funding.
What is the Alberta Entrepreneurship Incubator Program?
The Alberta Entrepreneurship Incubator Program is funded by the Government of Alberta’s Ministry of Economic Development and Trade and administered by Alberta Innovates. The purpose of this Program is to offer support for individuals who are already building or looking to build highly scale technology startups. Through the CIC, entrepreneurs can access Business Development Advisors (BDA’s) to have their ideas professionally assessed for suitability for the program.
What is a Business Development Advisor? (BDA)
BDA’s are trusted coaches who help entrepreneurs navigate Calgary’s startup support network and advance their businesses.
BDA’s work with entrepreneurs to:
Help them understand their business model better
Identify gaps/areas of improvement
Provide coaching & guidance for personal growth
Direct them to programs/organizations that can provide additional support
Make connections/introductions to key stakeholders
Access to funding administered by Alberta Innovates
Is the information I share with my BDA confidential?
Although BDA’s are unable to sign non-disclosure agreements, your information will be held in confidence within the CIC.
What type of funding could I receive?
After receiving a recommendation from one of our BDA’s, you could be eligible for a funding voucher distributed by the Alberta Entrepreneurship Incubator Program. Funding vouchers include:
Seed - up to $10,000
Bridge - up to $25,000
Growth - up to $20,000
These vouchers are designed to help entrepreneurs obtain one or more service or product providers, or a mentor company to assist with early stages of development.
What is the eligibility criteria for funding?
Entrepreneurs must meet the following minimum requirements:
Attend at least one Business Model Canvas workshop prior to meeting with a BDA
Be pre-vetted and recommended by a BDA
Be Arm’s Length from the Service or Product Provider(s)
Must not have an actual or perceived Conflict of Interest which, in the opinion of Alberta Innovates, cannot be mitigated;
Demonstrate why support from Alberta Innovates for the Project is necessary for Success;
Reside in Alberta;
Be able to provide a plan to determine the viability of their innovative concept and its potential market value;
Does not have an outstanding balance or otherwise owe money to any Alberta Innovates organization, subsidiary, or partner; and
Be willing to provide tax returns if requested by Alberta Innovates.
For additional details, please refer to the AEI program guide.