Accessible Entrepreneurship
CFBC is proud to offer programs and services for those who traditionally experience barriers to self-employment. Access tools, resources and training designed to give you specialized support to help you become an entrepreneur and thrive in business for years to come.
Entrepreneurs With Disabilities Program (EDP)
Service Provider: Community Futures BC
Cost: Free
Assistance for entrepreneurs with a disability or ongoing health issue to help build and develop their business. Services include assistance developing a business plan, training, business coaching, and access to funding opportunities.
Eligibility
- Self-declare a disability or ongoing health issue
- Have a viable business idea
- Have demonstrated commitment to your idea through research, learning and planning
- Be ready, willing and motivated to run your own business
- Be in need of additional support to build your business's future
We are currently at capacity for this program. Select "Apply Now" to be added to our waitlist and to receive notifications of the program re-opening.
[Now Closed] PRIDE in Entrepreneurship Program (PEP)
Service Provider: Community Futures BC
Cost: Free
Support for 2SLGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs in BC looking to start or grow their businesses. This inclusive and accessible program ensures all 2SLGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs across the province have the resources and opportunities to succeed. Services include training, resources, business plan development or updates, coaching, and access to funding opportunities.
Funding for the PRIDE in Entrepreneurship Program is provided by the Canadian Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce.
Eligibility
- Be a 2SLGBTQIA+ resident of BC
- Be starting a BC-based business; or own an existing BC-based business
This program has now closed. We thank the CGLCC Ecosystem Fund for the support.
Pathways to Entrepreneurship
Service Provider: Community Futures BC
Cost: Free
Apply now! Limited spaces available.
Self-employment training program for Indigenous youth in BC with chronic illness, physical disability, and/or neurodiverse conditions. Through mentorship, knowledge-sharing, and accessible tools, youth explore microbusiness development rooted in their strengths, culture, and ideas. The program offers personalized support, startup funds, and culturally relevant guidance to help youth turn their ideas into action.
This initiative is funded by Inclusion Canada.
Eligibility
Open to Indigenous youth in BC who:
- Are school-leaving age (typically 17 or older) and not older than 29
- Self-identify as having a disability, neurodiverse profile, or ongoing health condition, such as:
- Chronic illness or physical disability
- Neurodiverse conditions (e.g., ADHD, FASD, learning disabilities)
- Are motivated to start their own business
- Have shown commitment to their idea through research, learning or planning
- Are open to working with Elders, mentors and peers in a supportive environment
How to Apply
Send an email to info@communityfutures.ca
Service Delivery Partners
- Musqueam Indian Band
- S.A.G.E. Trainers
- Skwlāx te Secwepemcúl̓ecw
- Community Living BC (CLBC)
Neurodivergent Entrepreneurship Initiative (NEI)
Service Provider: Community Futures BC
Cost: Free
In partnership with the Province of B.C., this initiative offers subsidized assessments for eligible, referred WorkBC Self-Employment Program clients. A referral from WorkBC unlocks tailored supports, including neurodivergent coaching, business planning guidance and additional resources to help launch a business
Access to this initiative is by referral only from a WorkBC case manager/
This initiative offered in partnership with the Province of British Columbia.
Eligibility
Open to WorkBC program clients by referral only.
Free Digital Skills Training
Service Provider: SkillingUp, a Community Futures BC Partner
Cost: Free
SkillingUp is a free program from the March of Dimes, providing personalized training and support for people with disabilities to feel confident in their digital skills. Learn about accessible technologies, digital fundamentals, and gain access to certification opportunities.
AI-Powered Tools
Service Provider: CF British Columbia
Cost: Free
CFBC's Accessible Entrepreneurship Serivices has developed the following tools for startups and established businesses:
- CF Business Builder Coach* - AI-powered, step-by-step guide covering 10 modules to building a stronger business
- Brenda - Your Digital Marketing Strategist in a Chat* - AI assistant to develop and market your brand, offering insights on branding, SEO, social media, and more.
The AI tools are educational in nature and not a substitute for professional legal, financial or tax advice. It is suggested that you do not disclose personal or sensitive business information directly into the tools.
Disclaimer
The AI tools are educational in nature and not a substitute for professional legal, financial or tax advice. Always consult qualified experts before making major business decisions.
About The Tools
These tools are built on ChatGPT. If you have a free ChatGPT account, you may experience:
•Limited daily messages or tool usage
•Slower response times during peak hours
Privacy & Security
For your safety, it is suggested that you do not disclose enter personal or sensitive information into the tools such as:
•Your name or business name
•Business registration or license numbers
•Confidential client or financial information
If you wish to include personal details for your business plan or marketing materials, it is suggested that you enter that information separately into your own Word or PDF document after exporting your work.
AES Reports
EDP Annual Report 2024-25
Learn more about our work to help individuals facing ongoing health or disability challenges to start and succeed in entrepreneurship.
PEP Annual Report 2024-25
Read about our progress in outreach, training and community engagement for 2SLGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs.
AES Participant Feedback Report 2025
Discover how our services have been a lifeline for aspiring entrepreneurs facing systemic barriers.
Find Your Nearest Community Futures Office
Search by community name to find your local Community Futures office and inquire about additional services that may be available at the local or regional level.
