Business to consumer

Hands-on support for businesses ready to test, refine, and grow.

The Business to Consumer (B2C) Connection Program is designed to support local businesses in building their public presence, testing new ideas, and reaching new customers. Whether you're running a home-based business, looking to expand into a storefront, exploring a new product line, or simply trying to grow your visibility, this program offers a practical, low-risk way to gain real-world experience and strengthen your business.

Program Details

Participants selected for the program will receive:

  • 50% reimbursement of one booth at the Fort McMurray Fall Trade Show (September 25–27, 2026) upon successful completion of the program

  • Two interactive workshops focused on preparing for trade show success, attracting customers, and maximizing your return on investment

  • One group coaching session during the week leading up to the trade show to ensure you're fully prepared

  • A series of practical email resources and tips leading up to the event

  • Marketing exposure to help promote participating businesses throughout the program

  • Hands on support during the Fort McMurray Fall Trade Show

Who should apply?

This program is open to local businesses in the Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo region who:

  • Sell a product or service to consumers

  • Are ready to engage with the public in a busy, in-person setting

  • Have the ability to commit to the full three-day trade show (Friday–Sunday)

  • Are exploring ways to grow, test a new offering, or expand their reach

  • Are committed to completing the required training and feedback process

Businesses must be based in the FMWB region. Only five participants will be selected per cohort.

participant requirements

  • Sign the Participant Agreement confirming my participation in the program.

  • Pay the full cost of my trade show booth directly to the Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce. I understand that Startup YMM will reimburse 50% of the booth cost upon successful completion of all program requirements.

  • Attend all mandatory program sessions: Thursday, August 13, 2026 – 12:00 p.m., Thursday, September 3, 2026 – 12:00 p.m., Thursday, September 17, 2026 – 3:00 p.m.

  • Become a Startup YMM member (if not already a member).

  • Operate a booth at the Fort McMurray Fall Trade Show (September 25–27, 2026) and ensure it is adequately staffed throughout all published trade show hours.

  • Participate in post-program follow-up activities, including interviews, surveys, or requests for feedback, as requested by Startup YMM.

    The 50% booth reimbursement is contingent upon successful completion of all program requirements. Failure to fulfill the above requirements may result in partial or full forfeiture of the reimbursement, at the discretion of Startup YMM.