12th Annual First Nations Entrepreneurial Youth Symposium
Program Overview
Community Futures Treaty Seven is proud to host the 12th Annual First Nations Entrepreneurial Youth Symposium to be held on August 15-20, 2010 at the Nakoda Lodge and Conference Centre located in Morley, AB. The symposium is an intensive five day program designed to assist youth 18-35 years of age in the creation of a business plan. The object of the training is to provide opportunities for participants to develop their skill in small business management. Participants will be instructed in the areas of small business law, business law, business finance, accounting and risk-taking.
Several guest speakers will take part in this year’s symposium to help with the development of the participants’ business plan skills. The speakers and trainers provide superior information on small business ownership and operation which will be invaluable to all participants. Segments will include small business law, accounting, marketing, motivational speakers and a youth panel discussion for a question and answer period.
The youth symposium of 2010 has a partnership with the University of Calgary’s Native Ambassadors post-secondary initiative program. Participants will take part in the presentation of the bronze level leadership training certificate modules, which include modules on defining leadership, values and vision, self-management, communication and presentation skills. Each module has been modified to establish an aboriginal approach.
A good business plan is a basic tool for success. It is important when trying to borrow money or raise capital. It helps in focusing on goals, setting priorities and foreseen obstacles. A business plan is a guide.
Each group will present a business plan to a panel of three professionals of finance who are brought in to critique the participant’s actual business plans. Panelists provide feedback, opinions and encouragement and recommendations on each business proposal.
The purpose of the panel is to give participants an understanding of what financial professionals actually expect when business proposals are submitted. The experience provides experiences and knowledge to all participants.
Being a risk taker is a key feature that all successful entrepreneurs must possess. This year’s risk taking activities will consist of and exciting game of Fear Factor and a half day of white water rafting on the Kananaskis River.
At the end of the symposium, participants will have full knowledge of what it takes to own their own small business. A luncheon with participants and trainers will close the symposium with certificates of completion and stipend for participants that completed their training.