Young Sask. entrepreneurs getting help from non-profit

New local businesses, including coffee shops, clothing stores, and even a brewing company, have been popping up across Saskatchewan and some of the thanks for that belongs to Futurpreneur.

Futurpreneur Canada has been helping young business owners turn their ideas into a reality for more than two decades. It's a non-profit agency that provides financing, mentorship and support tools to aspiring entrepreneurs aged 18 to 39.

Twenty years ago, young people would go into banks to try to get a loan to start a business but the banks were not willing to loan them money.

"They told them to come back when they were older," said Joelle Foster, Director of Futurpreneur for Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Nunavut and Northwest Territories.

"CIBC and RBC saw there was a gap in the market and saw that, if no one helped these young people start these businesses, we would be in trouble." 

In 2001, the non-profit organization expanded to Saskatchewan. The agency has helped 169 businesses in the province.

Futurpreneurs has assisted businesses including Farm Lead, Neechie Gear, SheNative, Dr. Coffee's Cafe in Regina, Underground Cafe in Saskatoon, and 9 Mile Legacy Brewing.

Young entrepreneurs can apply for a $45,000 loan from Futurpreneurs and receive help develop a business plan.

"If you go into a bank, they look at finances and credit. We go that extra step and really drill down operations and HR," said Foster.

The company will also match young business owners up with a mentor for two years at no cost.

"It's going to help that young person reach that next level and have someone they can trust and go to -- with their business problems," said Foster.