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The Side Family Centre for Entrepreneurial Excellence set to open in spring 2026

Bright minds and collaborators in Grande Prairie will soon have a new dedicated space to accelerate entrepreneurship, innovation, and partnership thanks to a $6.4 million investment.

In a move that showcases the power of collaboration, 91��Ƭ�� and (PrairiesCan) have announced support for an initiative aimed at building local entrepreneurial skills and business capacity by enhancing service coordination within the Peace Region through a new centre for entrepreneurial excellence.

“We are truly excited to see this project enter into its next phase,” said NWP President and CEO, Dr. Vanessa Sheane. 

“Like many of the business start-ups we ultimately support, NWP will continue to actively work within our communities and networks to curate the necessary interest and enthusiasm while identifying opportunities for shared value.”

The business case for the enterprising venture was developed by NWP and submitted to PrairiesCan, the federal department that supports economic growth and diversification in the Prairie provinces, this past year. Funding to the tune of $3.2 million was recently confirmed through PrairiesCan's Regional Innovation Ecosystems program. This program creates, grows, and nurtures inclusive regional ecosystems that support businesses to innovate from start to finish and provides an environment where companies can innovate, grow, and compete. 

This initiative will be a catalyst for bringing the learning and business community together. The Side Family, prominent local business leaders, will also have an enduring presence at the space located within NWP’s Grande Prairie campus and will aptly be named The Side Family Centre for Entrepreneurial Excellence in recognition of the family’s patriarch Al Side.

“Al embodied the attitude that the region’s potential was endless and that anything was possible,” said Linda Side. “We find the reality of so many pioneering business leaders retiring in Canada gives rise to a pressing need to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge to drive innovation and business growth. We can only imagine the creative and constructive possibilities that will emerge when this center for business ignites idea generation and regional interaction. This is truly a fitting tribute to Al’s passion for business and legacy.”

Once operational, The Side Family Centre for Entrepreneurial Excellence will be integral in driving economic development and enhancing regional competitiveness. In addition to accelerating the growth of high-impact businesses, this initiative will focus on fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem that will attract investment, retain talent, and promote innovation. By providing a hub for creativity and cutting-edge solutions, this centre will significantly contribute to the region’s overall innovation landscape.

“The Side Family Centre for Entrepreneurial Excellence at 91��Ƭ�� will make it easier for entrepreneurs and businesses across Northwest Alberta to access the resources they need to advance their big ideas,” said the Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister for PrairiesCan. “Our government is proud to work collaboratively with academic institutions, not-for-profits, and businesses to help Albertans grow their business in their local communities, giving a boost to regional economies and making it easier for homegrown innovations to thrive.”

“Grande Prairie is home to talented innovators and youth who have the skills to bring groundbreaking products to global markets,” said the Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages. 

“The Side Family Centre for Entrepreneurial Excellence at 91��Ƭ�� will help local entrepreneurs to realize their full potential and create good jobs across Northwest Alberta.”

“By providing comprehensive support networks, timely mentorship programming and access to resources and equipment, The Side Family Centre for Entrepreneurial Excellence will facilitate both the incubation of ideas and the success of new ventures,” says NWP Vice-President, External Relations Cindy Park. “This is definitely a space to watch for emerging innovations.”

For more information about this project, please visit:.