FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

A New Opportunity for Entrepreneurs in Southeast Alberta: ACTI’s Self-Employment Program Is Now Available

MEDICINE HAT, AB | Entrepreneurs across Southeast Alberta now have access to practical support to help turn their business ideas into something real.

For people who have been thinking about starting a business, the path from an idea to a viable business can feel overwhelming. Knowing what to do first, how to understand the market, build a business plan, manage finances, reach customers, and make informed decisions can be just as important as the idea itself.

Anderson Career Training Institute (ACTI) is now making its Self-Employment Program available to eligible entrepreneurs in Southeast Alberta, giving participants the opportunity to learn the practical side of building a business while receiving guidance and mentorship along the way.

For more than 30 years, ACTI has helped Albertans move their business ideas forward. More than 1,900 businesses have been launched through ACTI's programs, giving entrepreneurs across the province access to education, mentorship, and a community of people who understand what it takes to build a business.

The 26-week Self-Employment Program is designed for people who are ready to take their business idea seriously and want the tools and support to move forward with confidence.

Participants spend 10 weeks in structured business training, followed by 16 weeks of guided business development and mentorship. Along the way, they learn practical skills in areas such as:

• Business planning
• Market research
• Marketing
• Sales
• Financial management
• Branding
• Customer discovery
• Business operations
• Licensing requirements
• Planning for growth

The goal isn't simply to learn about business. It's to put that knowledge to work.

Through live online instruction, mentorship, and local community connections, participants can build their knowledge while developing their business and making decisions about their next steps.

“Southeast Alberta has a strong entrepreneurial spirit and a long history of innovation,” said Dart Wooden, ACTI Director. “Whether someone has a business idea they’ve been considering for years, is looking to acquire an existing business, or has recently started operating, this program provides the structure, expertise, and support needed to move forward with confidence.”

ACTI's first Medicine Hat-area cohort begins on Monday, September 14, with the next cohort scheduled to begin January 11, 2027.

The program's availability in Southeast Alberta comes at a time when local entrepreneurs are contributing to the growth and diversity of communities throughout the region. From established businesses to new ventures, entrepreneurs bring ideas, services, and opportunities that strengthen the communities where they live and work.

For someone who has been saying, “I have a business idea, but I don't know where to start,” this could be the opportunity to take that next step.

Eligible Albertans can learn more about ACTI's Self-Employment Program and find out if it's the right fit for them at ACTI.org.

About Anderson Career Training Institute

For more than 30 years, Anderson Career Training Institute (ACTI) has helped Albertans turn business ideas into viable businesses through practical education, mentorship, and community.

ACTI's Self-Employment Program provides eligible entrepreneurs with the opportunity to develop practical business skills, receive guidance from experienced entrepreneurs, and build the confidence needed to move their business forward.

ACTI's approach is simple: entrepreneurs shouldn't have to build their businesses alone. With the right knowledge, support, and community, they can take their ideas and begin building something real.

Dart Wooden, B.A

Owner & Director

Self-Employment Program

Anderson Career Training Institute (ACTI)

O:780-944-0909

C:780-293-4868

 www.acti.org