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Alternative Lending: Empowering Entrepreneurs with Community Futures, with Corinne McGirr
Manage episode 457538663 series 3496095
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In this episode, Sharon dives into the transformative impact of Community Futures, a nationwide program supporting rural Canadian entrepreneurs since 1989. Her guest, Corinne McGirr—General Manager at Community Futures Lloydminster & Region—explains how the organization goes beyond traditional banking with developmental lending that considers factors like capacity, character, and community impact alongside credit and collateral.
Community Futures Lloydminster serves local businesses from inception to expansion, offering vital resources such as the Expert on Demand program for customized expert advice and Digi Futures, an online learning platform. Highlighting inspiring success stories, including a thriving female-led trucking company and a retail store that provides health benefits to employees, Corinne emphasizes the program's unique ability to empower entrepreneurs and foster community growth.
Listeners will gain valuable insights into Community Futures' application process, the importance of a strong business plan and market research, and the organization's collaborative efforts with regional partners like Startup Lloydminster. Corinne encourages entrepreneurs to explore these resources, especially if traditional banks have turned them away, and underscores the value of mentorship, coaching, and ongoing support. This episode is a powerful reminder of the role entrepreneurs play in building stronger, more resilient communities.
About Corinne McGirr
Corinne McGirr is a dedicated advocate for rural entrepreneurs and a key leader at Community Futures Lloydminster. Since 1989, Community Futures has supported small businesses across Canada with tailored guidance, developmental lending, and strategic resources.
Known for her creativity and problem-solving skills, Corinne fosters growth and sustainability by addressing the unique needs of the Lloydminster region and surrounding communities. Through strong partnerships with organizations like Startup Lloydminster, Alberta Innovates, and the East Central Alberta Regional Innovation Network, she ensures businesses at all stages have access to critical support.
Corinne’s expertise in rural entrepreneurship, innovative lending, and community-driven solutions continues to empower business owners to succeed and make a lasting impact.
Resources discussed in this episode:
- Startup Lloydminster
- East Central Alberta Regional Innovation Network
- Alberta Innovates
- BDC
- DigiFutures
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Contact Sharon DeKoning | It's Time Promotions:
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- Google: It’s Time Promotions
Contact Corinne McGirr | Community Futures:
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