Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR)

Location: Grande Prairie, Alberta
Organization: Northwestern Polytechnic, Side Centre for Entrepreneurial Excellence
Commitment: Part-time (up to 25 hours/week)
Contract Type: Independent Contractor

Contract Term: May 1, 2026 - March 31, 2027
Compensation: $42/hour

About the Role

• The Side Centre for Entrepreneurial Excellence is seeking a highly connected and experienced Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) to support and strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem in northwestern Alberta.
• This is a contract based, community facing role focused on building relationships, supporting entrepreneurs directly, and increasing awareness and uptake of advisory services offered through the Side Centre.
• The EIR will serve as a trusted advisor, connector, and ambassador who will help entrepreneurs navigate the entrepreneurial ecosystem, minimize challenges, access resources, and grow their ventures.

Key Responsibilities

1. Community Engagement & Outreach

• Actively promote Side Centre advisory services through networking, promotions, and business engagement
• Build relationships with local entrepreneurs, business owners, partners, and stakeholders
• Proactive business engagement and targeted outreach
• Organize and participate in community events, workshops, and other initiatives
• Marketing initiatives

2. Entrepreneur Advisory Services

• Provide 1:1 advisory support to entrepreneurs  
• Offer guidance on growth, operations, strategy, and problem-solving
• Identify opportunities to connect entrepreneurs with mentors and resources
• Referral to ecosystem programs and partners
• Accelerate and support entrepreneurs through the entrepreneurial cycle
• Business planning and strategy support
• Help entrepreneurs access and navigate funding sources
• Mentorship support

3. Ecosystem Development

• Strengthen connections within the regional entrepreneurial ecosystem
• Collaborate with service providers, partners, and organizations to support entrepreneurs
• Provide insights and feedback on ecosystem needs, trends, opportunities and gaps

4. Relationship Building & Referrals

• Act as a connector between entrepreneurs and relevant supports (financial, legal, mentorship, etc.)
• Support the development of a strong, collaborative network around the Side Centre

Deliverables & Performance Expectations

• The Entrepreneur in Residence will work collaboratively with the Side Centre to establish clear deliverables and key performance indicators (KPIs) aligned with organizational priorities and funding commitments.
• Deliverables will include defined goals aligned with all key responsibilities, with outputs and impact expected to scale over time.
• The EIR will be expected to maintain appropriate records and provide periodic updates to support reporting for goals achieved and impact measurement.

Qualifications & Experience

• Proven experience as an entrepreneur, business owner, or senior business leader
• Strong understanding of the entrepreneurial journey  
• Well-established network within the Grande Prairie and/or regional business community
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships and earn trust 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and manage a flexible schedule

Work Structure

• Up to 25 hours per week
• Flexible hours, including availability for some evening events and meetings
• Primarily based in Grande Prairie, with a strong community presence expected
• Combination of on-site (Side Centre) and in-community meetings 

Compensation

• $42/hour, up to a maximum of 25 hours per week
• Hours and invoicing to be tracked and submitted in accordance with contract terms

What Success Looks Like

• Increased awareness and utilization of Side Centre advisory services
• Strong, trusted relationships with entrepreneurs and ecosystem partners
• Measurable impact aligned with funding, goals, and strategic priorities
• Meaningful contributions to building a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem in the region