In a dedicated effort to empower and uplift young entrepreneurs across Canada, Futurpreneur has been making significant strides, particularly in the province of Manitoba. Through a range of comprehensive programs and initiatives, this non-profit organization has been pivotal in providing essential mentorship, workshops, and financial management support to budding business owners. In focus, is their Indigenous Entrepreneur Startup Program led by the esteemed senior business development manager, Noah Wilson, aimed at catalyzing the success of Indigenous entrepreneurs. With a strong emphasis on community engagement and fostering partnerships, Futurpreneur is playing a crucial role in nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit, especially during National Indigenous History Month.
“In a nutshell of how we support entrepreneurs is we support them with developing their business plan and financial work time and our mentorship program which provides them mentorship for two years” Stated Wilson, “My coverage area is all of Manitoba and one of my focus areas is this past year now is really engaging the North and how we’ve done that recently is attend more conferences and building partnerships and collaborating with other organizations”
One such success story is Dustin Murdock, an entrepreneur from Niscawati Cree Nation who initially established a gym in the North before venturing into Winnipeg to launch a physical therapy business. Through Futurpreneur, Murdock received invaluable support, remarking on the security and assistance he received from the organization from the outset of his entrepreneurial journey.
“I think initially the biggest thing for me was the launching start. That was the most helpful part for me” he added.
Expressing his gratitude, Murdock emphasized the pivotal role of Futurpreneur in facilitating the launch of his business and enabling its initial growth. With a strong background in physical therapy, spanning over three years, Murdock aspires to expand his business back toward the North, aiming to diversify his services by offering remote appointments and extending assistance to communities beyond his current location.
“I actually worked in Thompson at the rehab department for a while”. Murdock had been a regular visitor until just last month when his new business took up most of his time. In the future, he envisions traveling to various communities to offer his expertise, and even hopes to extend his aid to international locations.” “Eventually I would like to travel to different communities and help abroad as well”.
Murdock's encounter with Futurpreneur began when he stumbled upon the organization while searching for grants online. His affiliation with the non-profit has significantly contributed to the successful launch of his physical therapy business, allowing him to transition away from his previous role in the rehabilitation department in Thompson to focus entirely on his new venture.
While Murdock’s approach to physical therapy is unique, it has been widely received, as he specializes in using his gym knowledge and expertise to ensure the best success. “I don’t even like calling myself a clinic, because I don’t really treat people, I do more gym based therapy. I try not to spend a lot of time at the assessment table and I try to get them moving right off the bat”
Futurpreneur’s commitment to nurturing entrepreneurship and providing invaluable support to individuals like Dustin Murdock demonstrates the organization's profound impact on empowering aspiring business owners. Through its tailored programs and dedicated mentorship, Futurpreneur continues to play a pivotal role in fostering the growth and success of entrepreneurs, particularly in Manitoba and within Indigenous communities. As success stories like Murdock's continue to emerge, it is evident that the organization's unwavering support is paving the way for entrepreneurial endeavors to thrive, creating a ripple effect of positive change in the business landscape.
