Community Futures Network of Canada

Supporting Canada’s 267 Community Futures Organizations Grant

The Supporting Canada’s 267 Community Futures Organizations Grant is designed to provide small business services, including loans, training, and resources, to individuals in Canada's rural and remote communities. Managed by the Community Futures Network of Canada, the grant aims to bolster economic growth and resilience through local initiatives and collaborative efforts.

Overview of the Supporting Canada’s 267 Community Futures Organizations Grant

The Supporting Canada’s 267 Community Futures Organizations Grant is a cornerstone of Canada's commitment to fostering economic development in rural and remote areas. Administered by the Community Futures Network of Canada (CFNC), the grant program supports a network of 267 non-profit offices across the country. Each office is dedicated to providing vital services such as small business loans, tools, training, and events geared towards entrepreneurial ventures, expansion, franchising, or business sale. ## Purpose and Objectives ### Economic Empowerment of Rural Communities The primary objective of the grant is to stimulate economic development in rural and remote communities across Canada. By facilitating access to financial resources and business expertise, the program aims to empower local entrepreneurs and small businesses, promoting sustainable economic diversity and resilience. ### Customizable Support Each Community Futures office operates as an independent non-profit organization. This decentralized model allows each office to tailor its services to the specific needs of its local community. Whether it’s through specialized loan products, advisory services, or training programs, Community Futures organizations provide nuanced support. ### Capacity Building Community Futures offices also focus on capacity building by providing on-the-job training and other professional development opportunities to their core staff. Positions such as General Managers, Business Analysts, Community Economic Development Officers, and Administrators are crucial for the success of these local initiatives. These roles come with specialized skill requirements and job components, ensuring a competent workforce dedicated to driving local economic growth. ## Structure and Governance ### CFNC Membership and Groups The CFNC is divided into five regional groups, each with its own set of member associations: - Atlantic Group: Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador - Quebec Group: Quebec - Ontario Group: Ontario - Western Group: Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia - Territories Group: Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut ### Board of Directors and Advisory Committees The CFNC Board of Directors comprises representatives from each regional group, ensuring a balanced and inclusive governance structure. Additionally, advisory committees and project managers play a crucial role in guiding the network, initiating cost-saving programs, and formulating progressive policies. ## Key Areas of Focus ### Advocacy & Leadership CFNC actively engages with national decision-makers to advocate for the sustainability and expansion of the Community Futures program. By presenting up-to-date information on program impacts, successes, and best practices, CFNC ensures that rural and remote businesses remain a priority in federal economic policies. ### Tools & Resources The grant provides a wide array of tools and resources to member offices. These include specialized training programs, group discounts, and access to best practices. The Best Practices Committee is instrumental in gathering and disseminating information that can benefit both staff and volunteers across the network. ### Collaboration & Communication Effective communication and collaboration are at the heart of CFNC activities. The network facilitates information sharing between offices, building valuable links and networks that enhance service delivery. The CFNC also organizes national conferences every three years, providing a platform for knowledge exchange and professional development among staff and volunteers. ## Funding and Support ### Government of Canada’s Regional Development Agencies The grant program is funded by Canada's Regional Development Agencies, including the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), FedNor, FedDev Ontario, PacifiCan, and PrairiesCan. This support underscores the federal government’s commitment to rural economic development. ### Targeted Relief in Disasters In times of disaster, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the Community Futures program has proven its resilience. Special funding allocations like the $287 million Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) were directed towards rural businesses that were unable to access other support measures. This highlights the program's critical role in economic recovery. ## Success Stories and Impact ### Pan-Canada Success Stories The results of the grant program are evident through numerous success stories from across the nation. From innovative startups to expanding family businesses, Community Futures offices have been instrumental in turning entrepreneurial dreams into reality. ### National Conferences and Publications The CFNC publishes an Annual Review that showcases the successes and contributions of Community Futures organizations. These reviews, coupled with national conferences, provide a platform to celebrate achievements and share experiences, further enriching the collective knowledge and capabilities of the network. ## Conclusion The Supporting Canada’s 267 Community Futures Organizations Grant is more than just a funding program; it is a lifeline for rural and remote communities. By offering financial support, business expertise, and professional development, the grant fosters a resilient and diverse rural economy. Managed by the Community Futures Network of Canada, this initiative continues to empower local entrepreneurs and ensure that rural Canada remains vibrant and economically sustainable. For more information, or to get in touch with your nearest Community Futures office, visit the official CFNC website.