How to Apply
Important Notes:
- You will need to complete and submit your application in one session, so we suggest preparing your submission in a separate document before filling out the online form. Below please find the questions to help you prepare.
- Applications will be reviewed by a panel in order to be shortlisted down to the final four. The shortlist of four finalists will be asked to complete a virtual 15 to 20 minute presentation to the judging panel on October 6, 2 PM (MST) and the judges will then select two recipients who will each receive $25,000, deposited into a business account at their local credit union. If you apply, we encourage you to pre-emptively block your calendar for the pitch day in the case you move forward as a finalist. Full details are available on our FAQ page.
Application Form Questions:
- Business Profile (300 words)
- Provide an overview of your business. Include key areas of operation, location, length of time in business and qualifications of key team members. [Worth up to 10 points]
- Marketplace Solution (300 words)
- Describe what solution you provide. Include the value your business brings to the market, your key demographics and your customer needs. [Worth up to 10 points]
- Goals (300 words)
- What are your business and/or expansion goals? Include steps and time frames to achieve them. [Worth up to 10 points]
- Community Support (500 words)
- Credit unions are people-focused organizations that support their communities. Tell us how your business contributes to the development/growth of your community. [Worth up to 20 points]
- Business Innovation (500 words)
- How does your business currently demonstrate innovation? Include examples of innovative solution(s) that have solved business problems. [Worth up to 20 points]
- Use of Funds (500 words)
- Tell us how you would use the grant funds to continue innovation in business. Include plans and timelines as well as key performance indicators (KPIs) or benchmarks you’ll use to demonstrate that the funds have assisted your business in continuing innovation. Include details on why or how these funds will make a tangible difference to your business, community or idea. [Worth up to 20 points].
Please note that applications will also be reviewed on overall completeness, the overall story and passion of the applicant (including use of details, examples and stories) and any supplementary assets provided that help create a compelling reason for why your business should be selected.
If you have any issues submitting the form, please reach out to communications@albertacentral.com.