Northwestern Polytechnic and Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce Get to Work

Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) and the Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce are launching a new collaboration designed to deliver meaningful benefits for businesses, students, and the broader region.

The partnership will expand work-integrated learning opportunities, connecting Chamber members with 
students ready to take on real business challenges. Local organizations gain access to fresh perspectives and innovative thinking, while students benefit from hands-on experience and direct exposure to seasoned professionals.

“This partnership creates valuable opportunities for our students to apply their learning in practical ways while building stronger connections within the business community,” said Dr. Vanessa Sheane, NWP President and CEO. 

“We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to engage with such a diverse and experienced business community. It’s a win for businesses gaining new ideas, for students gaining real-world experience and mentorship, and for our region as we build the next generation of leaders.”

NWP is seeking interest from Chamber members who are open to working with students during the upcoming Fall and Winter Semesters. Businesses can access a range of student-led support, including strategic marketing plans, research and analysis, operational efficiency reviews, logistics planning, and more.

To mark the launch of the partnership, the Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce hosted a business pitch competition on April 9. Aptly named A Big Deal, the event saw five student teams present business proposals developed over the semester to the Chamber Board. Inspired by the reality TV show Shark Tank, the experience gave students the opportunity to present to an authentic audience and receive feedback from experienced business and community leaders.

“This partnership reflects exactly what the Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce strives to create, meaningful connections that strengthen our business community and drive regional growth,” said Wendy Thomas, CEO of the Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce. 

“By bringing together the innovation and energy of Northwestern Polytechnic students with the experience and leadership of our members, we are supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs and building a strong future workforce."

Together, the Chamber and NWP are creating a powerful model of collaboration, supporting business innovation, enriching student learning, and strengthening the region’s future workforce.

For more information, visit NWP.me/BusinessBoost.