Northwestern Polytechnic Mobilizes Support for Northern Businesses

Northwestern Polytechnic’s (NWP) Side Centre for Entrepreneurial Excellence is leading a new regional initiative to support small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) in navigating growing global trade pressures and strengthening workforce resilience.

Backed by a $400,000 grant funded in part by the Government of Canada through the Canada-Alberta Workforce Tariff Response, the two-year project will provide businesses across northwest Alberta with practical tools, research insights, and workforce planning strategies to respond to economic volatility, including tariffs and shifting trade conditions.

Delivered in collaboration with the Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce and Community Futures Grande Prairie & Region, the initiative will help businesses understand risk, strengthen operations, and build long-term stability in an increasingly complex economic environment.

“Northwestern Polytechnic is proud to lead this important initiative,” said NWP President and CEO, Dr. Vanessa Sheane. 

“Our region’s small and medium-sized businesses are the backbone of the economy, and they are navigating an increasingly complex global trade environment. By strengthening skills, training, and workforce development here at home, we’re equipping our business community with the tools they need to adapt, grow, and remain resilient in the face of change.” 

The project will begin with regional research to better understand how trade pressures are affecting workforce stability and operational decision-making among local businesses. Findings will inform the development of targeted engagement, practical tools, and future programming, including regional workshops and hands-on support for participating SMEs.

"Through the Side Centre, we are focused on delivering practical, forward-looking supports that help entrepreneurs navigate change," said Tanya Oliver, Director for NWP's Side Centre for Entrepreneurial Excellence. 

"This initiative is a strong example of that work, made possible in collaboration with regional partners and with the support of the Government of Alberta." 

Throughout the project, businesses will have opportunities to contribute to research, access practical resources, and apply new workforce planning approaches designed to reduce risk and support long-term sustainability.

Participating SMEs are expected to have stronger workforce planning practices, improved readiness to respond to economic disruptions, and greater operational resilience. Insights and resources developed through the initiative will be shared across the region and may help inform similar efforts in other trade-exposed communities across Alberta.

Find updates about this project and more about NWP's Side Centre for Entrepreneurial Excellence at NWP.me/SideCentre.