The College of New Caledonia (CNC) is launching a new Entrepreneur Mentorship Program (EMP) this fall, providing students with direct access to experienced business leaders while strengthening connections between education, employment, and entrepreneurship.

Launching alongside CNC's new Business Administration Program (BAP) in September 2026, the Entrepreneur Mentorship Program will provide students with practical learning opportunities, one-on-one mentorship, and industry engagement designed to prepare them for successful careers or entrepreneurial ventures.

While the program will support students enrolled in the Business Administration Program, participation will also be available to students from other areas of the college, including Health Sciences and Human Services, and the School of Trades, Applied Arts and Technology.

The Entrepreneur Mentorship Program will include:

• One-on-one mentorship with an experienced entrepreneur
• Workshops and classroom engagement
• Applied and work-integrated learning opportunities

The program is designed to help students build career-ready skills, develop an entrepreneurial mindset, gain confidence as they transition from education into employment or self-employment, and create meaningful connections with local entrepreneurs, employers, and community partners.

“Learning is most powerful when students have opportunities to connect what they are studying in the classroom with the experiences and perspectives of people working in their field,” said Dr. Bruce McKay, Vice President Academic at CNC.

“The Entrepreneur Mentorship Program gives students another way to build those connections, develop their confidence and gain practical insight that will help prepare them for wherever their careers take them.”

CNC is pleased to welcome Mary Mytting, Executive Director of the Northern Innovation Network, as the inaugural mentor for the Entrepreneur Mentorship Program. Her extensive experience supporting entrepreneurs, innovators, and businesses across Northern British Columbia will provide students with valuable insights and real-world perspectives.

"CNC is making a bold, forward-looking choice by recognizing entrepreneurship as a viable career path." says Mary Mytting, Executive Director of Northern Innovation Network " Not every student will start a business immediately after graduation, but quite a few may choose entrepreneurship later in their careers. Through this partnership, CNC and the Northern Innovation Network will ensure they have the knowledge, support and confidence to give their ventures a greater chance of success.”

Mary Mytting, Executive Director of Northern Innovation Network

The Entrepreneur Mentorship Program adds a distinctive applied-learning component to the new Business Administration Program while supporting CNC's commitment to preparing graduates with the skills, experience, and professional networks needed to succeed in today's workforce. The program also reflects the college's continued focus on responding to regional labour market and economic development needs.

The Entrepreneur Mentorship Program is made possible primarily through donor fundraising designated to support business programming at CNC.

Check out our press release to learn more.