An Integrated Approach
Five of Kamloops' leading business resource organizations have come together to launch a collaborative entrepreneurship resource program dedicated to providing business planning, employment skills training, finance connections and access to local business resources. Community Futures Thompson Country (CFTC), Open Door Group, Venture Kamloops, Kamloops Innovation, and TRU Generator are committed to make sure there are easy connections to help local entrepreneurs and businesses.
Local entrepreneurs can make their first point of contact at any of these five economic development supporters to receive complimentary business guidance and facilitated access to an integrated resource network.
GET STARTEDMeet the Team
Community Futures
Community Futures Thompson Country’s focus is on providing entrepreneurs and business owners access to complimentary business resources, professional business counselling, start-up loan assistance, job placement, training and more.
Open Door Group
Open Door Group is a non-profit organization built on the fundamental belief that everyone has the ability to succeed. They provide tailored employment services to individuals and businesses in order to build strong workforce ecosystems and thriving local communities.
Venture Kamloops
Venture Kamloops is the economic development organization for the City of Kamloops. Their mission is to give every local business the best chance to succeed and create economic growth in Kamloops.
Kamloops Innovation
At Kamloops Innovation we help entrepreneurs start, grow and accelerate their technology and tech-enabled ventures. We offer affordable programs that guide, coach and mentor entrepreneurs at various stages of their journey, and our open and collaborative office spaces are designed to facilitate useful connections and boost a sense of community. Come for a visit or attend one of our many events.
TRU Generator
Thompson Rivers University (TRU) and Kamloops Innovation operate the TRU Generator. Located on-campus in the basement of the House of Learning, TRU Generator offers startup workshops, mentorship and a dynamic workspace for TRU students, alumni, faculty and staff. Drop in to learn about entrepreneurship, book a meeting with a mentor or connect with like-minded peers on campus.
Programs & Services
| Type of Program/Service | Community Futures | Open Door Group | Venture Kamloops | Kamloops Innovation | TRU Generator |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Loans | ✔ | ||||
| Business Succession | ✔ | ||||
| Entrepreneurs with Disabilities | ✔ | ||||
| Business Registration | ✔ | ||||
| Self-Employment | ✔ | ✔ | |||
| Wage Subsidy | ✔ | ||||
| Work Experience Placement | ✔ | ||||
| Employment | ✔ | ||||
| Recruitment for Employers | ✔ | ||||
| Economic Data | ✔ | ||||
| Site Selection | ✔ | ||||
| Business Planning Tools | ✔ | ||||
| Licensing & Permitting Information | ✔ | ||||
| Initial Market Research Tools | ✔ | ||||
| Starting a Business | ✔ | ||||
| Expanding Your Business | ✔ | ||||
| Technology Related Idea or Product | ✔ | ||||
| Using Technology in My Business | ✔ | ||||
| Support for TRU Students or Alumni | ✔ |
Meet David Garcia
Age: 30
Occupation: Electrician
David has been working for a large outfit out of town for the last 4 years. He is ready to start his own business, so he can be home and spend more time with his family.
Who can help David start his business?
David would visit Open Door Group to inquire about Self-Employment services, and to determine service eligibility.
David would visit Community Futures to attend orientation. Business concepts are reviewed for acceptance into “Self-Employment Services” via the WORKBC program.
Meet Mike Johnson
Age: 45
Occupation: Tourism Owner/Operator
Mike has owned a successful seasonal tourism operation for 8 years. He is interested in expanding his business to be a 4-season operation.
Who can help Mike expand his business?
Mike would apply for the Start Here Program at Venture Kamloops. A program for entrepreneurs in need of financing support, who have their business/financial plans complete.
Meet Jessica Brown
Age: 28
Occupation: Brand Manager
Jessica helped co-found a small fashion label and managed a multitude of different day-to-day tasks including sales, marketing and production. After 5 years at the business, she is ready to start her own storefront & e-commerce business.
Who can help Jessica open storefront?
Jessica would visit Community Futures to attend orientation. Business concepts are reviewed for acceptance into “Self-Employment Services” via the WORKBC program.
Jessica would apply for the Venture Kamloops Accelerate Program.
