Yes, our services are free.
Who we are
Founded in 2019, Canadian Imperial Advantage (CIA) is one of six Albertan organizations recognized by the Government of Canada for advancing the Black business ecosystem.
Since its beginnings as a regional initiative, CIA has grown to establish a national presence, facilitating access to over $28 million in capital and supporting more than 800 entrepreneurs, 1,800 business leaders, and 300+ women-led businesses.
Through capacity-building workshops, business services, strategic partnerships, and access to capital, CIA equips underserved entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed.
Since its beginnings as a regional initiative, CIA has grown to establish a national presence, facilitating access to over $28 million in capital and supporting more than 800 entrepreneurs, 1,800 business leaders, and 300+ women-led businesses.
Through capacity-building workshops, business services, strategic partnerships, and access to capital, CIA equips underserved entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed.
We strive to promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, support and advance underserved communities with honesty and integrity.
Headquartered in Edmonton, Alberta, CIA is a not-for-profit organization committed to fostering an inclusive business ecosystem that drives growth, entrepreneurial development, and innovation across Western Canada.
Looking ahead, CIA is preparing for global expansion. By building international bridges across our network of executives, decision makers, government leaders, and strategic alliance partners, CIA is expanding access to connect entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and investors, and opportunities worldwide.
Our Story
Want to know about our team?
Our team members are a diverse group of professionals who are committed to CIA’s vision.
Board members have a variety of business and professional experience, and contribute their valuable time serving the organization.
Board members have a variety of business and professional experience, and contribute their valuable time serving the organization.
Is to establish and support a sustainable solution through quality resources, technology, and practicality to the dynamic complexities that the world faces, requiring individuals to reach beyond the surface.
The Organization’s Mission is to provide the highest quality of services with the aspect of unique and diverse opportunities for all individuals, clearly establishing valuable connections and supports in which people may discover a personal journey with considered equality, ability, and contributions; empowering individuals to achieve their fullest potential.
Canadian Imperial Advantage seeks to provide clear and relevant information through cost- effective, easily accessible mentorships, counselling, and consultations with a strong client focus approach. We strive to promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, support and advance underserved communities with honesty and integrity.
"This is one of the best programs I've attended! The facilitators were knowledgeable and shared practical insights. I now have a better understanding of business structures and marketing."
Grace Adeyemi
"The HER-Conomy program has been impactful. The entrepreneurship sessions gave me the tools I need to take my business to the next level."
Joy Ibe
"I learned so much about digital marketing, especially social media strategies. I'm now confident in using Instagram and Facebook to promote my products."
Chioma Iwegbu
"This program helped me better structure my business plan. I also learned about the importance of customer service and how to keep my clients satisfied."
Folake Akinrinade
"The HER-Conomy program has been a blessing. I didn't know much about digital tools before, but now I feel equipped to grow my business online."
Oluwakemi Olaniyan
"Your business advice was so simple and direct. My business is now moving in a new direction and customer base is expanding."
Ashwin
"My business is expanding to a new location, the external funding you secured for us is responsible for this growth. You guys are a light in the small business community."
Mike
"I would like to volunteer to be a part of the organizing team for the next Newcomers Integration program. The cultural event I attended last year was very impactful; I got to meet a lot of newcomers last year and they have become my new family in Canada."
Samy
"We forecasted a business collapse by the end of August 31, 2019; you guys came to our rescue with the financing advice. Thanks to Ben for sending us your way. We are out of the woods now."
Solomon
"Thanks for your guidance. My brother arrived in Canada. We commend your CIA team for their honesty and integrity throughout the application process. I promise to recommend more family and friends to contact you."
Darren
"I have always wanted to come to Canada to pursue my dreams of becoming an international businesswoman. Canadian Imperial Advantage helped make that dream a reality. No regrets: Two years and counting since arriving in Alberta, Canada."
Tola
"Thank you for all that you did to turn our business around by providing business owners managerial, technical, financial, and marketing skills through advising and mentoring. We appreciate you."
Rick
"You make starting a business look very easy. Yes! It is very easy. Thank you for the support."
Ayo
"Thank you, CIA for the mentorship! Our business is now on the road to a greater future."
Lilian
"Great learning opportunities, great business advice, and tons of support from both mentors and coaches."
Adonai Bila
"Great place to start your entrepreneurial journey in Alberta. They have a lot of helpful programs and it is free. Highly recommend it."
Yana Pysarenko
"The Her-Cconomy program is a good initiative with loads of benefits & great opportunities for young entrepreneurs in Canada, thereby enabling the entrepreneurs-to-be expand their business horizon with strategic ideas, resources et al. Thanks a bunch to the CIA team."
Debbie
"My biggest takeaway from participating in the HER-Conomy masterclass series on Entrepreneurship was being in the same space with like-minded women eager to absorb the information being shared with the hope of improvement ourselves and creating positive impact in the spaces that we occupy."
Doraska Hartley
"The program was well-curated with a comprehensive and engaging curriculum. The content covered various aspects of entrepreneurship and digital literacy. The instructors were truly exceptional. Their expertise and dedication shone through in every session."
Vanessa Kankam
"HER-Conomy 5.0 has been awesome! This program opened my eyes to the right information as regards how to grow and expand my business which includes planning, marketing, exceptional customer service, leveraging digital tools and so much more."
Iyabo Awoderu
"The HER-Conomy Initiative Program has been an incredible journey of personal and professional growth. Exploring entrepreneurship, digital literacy, empowerment, and leadership alongside industry experts has provided invaluable insights that have truly empowered me."
Princess Chinnah
"HER-conomy has had a huge impact and pivotal effect on my business and personal life. There is so much value in this organization, I am still in disbelief that these services are offered for free, it's truly a trailblazing initiative."
Fane Waqatabu
"My biggest takeaway from HER-Conomy was that in order to run a successful business, you must first have a well thought-out plan. A clear plan of direction or where you want to take your business will help you stay on track."
Adannaya Uzor
"As an Educational Consultant, the masterclass provided valuable insights for business planning, and strategies to enhance business sales and marketing, making operational excellence to foster growth and expansion."
Constance Amengahwon
"This Master Class has impacted me a great deal. The excellent team of facilitators made it very easy to understand the topics taught. My biggest take away was the importance of setting attainable business goals."
Akongnui Nadege
"The empowerment program provided invaluable insights into digital literacy, platforms, empowering myself to harness technology effectively. Moreover, I learnt how to leverage these skills to embark on entrepreneurial endeavors."
Mba Elizabeth Ayinla
"Women supporting Women. CIA HER-Conomy is a superior program that transforms women's futures by empowering them to have a better future. The CIA Leadership Team is exemplary, supportive and a trendsetter."
Neema Mbowe
"Her-Conomy training has significantly empowered me to navigate the business landscape effectively. It is an impactful training that has equipped me with invaluable tools and retrospectives for my business success."
Abiola Suwaibat Abdullah
"The sessions on digital literacy and entrepreneurship have been eye-opening. The program has pushed me to think differently about how I run my business."
Elizabeth Ajanaku
"Thank you for this life-changing program! I've gained valuable knowledge in entrepreneurship and networking. I’m ready to take on new challenges with my business."
Yetunde Olatunji
"The CIA HER-Conomy has been a great learning experience. I didn't know I could design a website and later create an App for a business. What a way to start!"
Florence Nabawanuka
"I had a transformative learning experience! The entrepreneurial and digital masterclass was a game changer for me, I
gained practical knowledge on digital tools, crafting and driving business growth."
gained practical knowledge on digital tools, crafting and driving business growth."
Funke Faye
"A big thanks to CIA for this amazing opportunity. From entrepreneurship to digital literacy, I can’t name them all. I have the tools to design my website and choose proper colors."
Afi Yoma
"The HER-Conomy masterclasses in digital literacy and entrepreneurship were invaluable. It provided practical skills and insights essential for navigating the digital landscape."
Flore Tamko Mbensi
"Joining the entrepreneurship course was a great opportunity for me, thank you to all the leadership and facilitators for their support throughout the course."
Olasubomi Adekanbi
"My biggest takeaway from these four weeks is summed up in Abraham Lincoln’s words, 'Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.' To be a successful entrepreneur, planning is key."
Omowumi Oyedele
Reaching Our Community One Event At A Time…
Black History Month 2023
Proclamation Day – St Albert
Black History Month 2022
Amber Valley
Women’s History Month
International Women’s Day Celebration!
Edmonton Food Bank
COMMUNITY EVENT
ASSIST Taste of Heritage Festival
FAQs
Are your services free?
What are the requirements to qualify for your services?
In order to qualify for our services, you must be a resident of Canada.
What support is available to me as I develop my business plan?
There are a few different types of support that may be available to you as you develop your business plan. CIA offers free business advisory services, training, and resources. You can book a consultation here:
https://outlook.office365.com/owa/calendar/CEORoundtableRegistration@imperialadvantage.ca/bookings/s/TwBsboPhikqJIJ_uImjyig2
What types of business support services does CIA offer?
CIA offers a range of business support services including workshops focused on capacity building, access to capital, and networking opportunities that cater to the unique needs of BIPOC entrepreneurs.
How do I know which of your services will be the best for me?
Thank you for your question! We would be happy to help you figure out which of our services would be the best for you. Book a consultation with our business advisor to discuss this further.
Can I get a grant from you?
Thank you for reaching out to us. Currently, we do not offer grants to individuals. We do, however, share other grant opportunities with our members. Sign up today and see these opportunities
https://imperialadvantage.ca/?page_id=802
Do you have a mentorship program?
Yes, we have a mentorship program. For more information, please visit our website (www.imperialadvantage.ca) or contact us at info@imperialadvantage.ca
How does CIA support entrepreneurs?
CIA supports entrepreneurs through capacity building workshops, networking events, and by facilitating access to capital. We focus on providing valuable business resources and support to BIPOC entrepreneurs in Alberta.
Is CIA a government-approved organization?
Yes, CIA is one of the six organizations approved by the Government of Canada to advance the black business ecosystem in Western Canada. This official recognition highlights our dedication to supporting BIPOC entrepreneurs.
How can I get involved with CIA's initiatives?
You can get involved with CIA by participating in our capacity building workshops, attending our networking events, or exploring opportunities to support our mission through partnerships or donations.
How can I apply for CIA's programs and workshops?
Details about applying for CIA's programs and workshops can usually be found on our website. We provide information on application processes, deadlines, and eligibility criteria.
Is CIA limited to specific industries?
CIA's initiatives are open to entrepreneurs from various industries. We aim to provide support across a wide range of sectors to foster economic growth and empowerment within BIPOC communities.