The SMARTstart Airdrie program launched in 2014, and has experienced a lot of success!
Business Success
Over 100 people have completed SMARTstart. Airdrie entrepreneurs have opened businesses, grown their businesses, and improved their business practices.
Some participants in SMARTstart Airdrie have determined that their idea is not viable or that they don’t have what it takes to be an entrepreneur. This is also considered a success. SMARTstart is all about helping entrepreneurs realize their potential.
SMARTstart is represented in other ways in the Airdrie community. Several have won or been nominated for an Airdrie Business Award.
An Award-Winning Program
Others have noticed that SMARTstart is a one-of-a-kind program. SMARTstart Airdrie has been recognized with the following awards:
- Alex Metcalfe Award–Best Community Economic Development Project from Economic Developers Alberta
- Innovation Award from Community Futures Network of Alberta
- Above & Beyond Award: Economic Sustainability from Alberta Urban Municipalities Association
Airdrie Statistics 2014-2020
| Status at End of Program | Participants | % |
| Idea on Hold | 14 | 11% |
| Idea in Development | 13 | 11% |
| Started a Business | 21 | 17% |
| Business Continues | 27 | 22% |
| Business Expansion | 34 | 28% |
| Withdrew/Incomplete | 13 | 11% |
| Total | 122 |