RBC Foundation ups annual donation to MHC entrepreneurial program
The RBC Foundation donated $35,000 to the Medicine Hat College’s Entrepreneurial Development Centre Wednesday, upping its annual contribution by $10,000 to meet increased program demand in these economically challenging times.
“The cornerstone of our economy, and what drives our economy, is small businesses,” said RBC regional vice president of commercial and financial services Kevin Zimmel. “During economic challenges, which Alberta has had a prolonged downturn, we have seen people creating their own jobs. The ability to take their skills and programs through Medicine Hat College, and through the start-up toolkit, and the ability to gain skills and equip (students) to have the capabilities to be successful, we think is paramount ... If we can do our part supporting youth, by way of education, everyone wins.”
Zimmel also spoke of the job crisis facing youth in Alberta today, and the need to promote business start-ups as one means to meet this crisis head on.
“Canada’s greatest resource is undoubtedly the youth of today. Thousands of young people coast to coast who are craving opportunity, knowledge and connection. They deserve every chance we can give them to live full, healthy and successful lives. And yet youth today are more likely to be unemployed at any time since the mid-1970s.”
MHC manager of business development Tracy Stroud praised the RBC Foundation for its rock-solid commitment to the EDC these past six years.
“Last year we had quite an increase in student interest in entrepreneurship. RBC has responded to that, and has increased their donation this year to $35,000. This is just a hugely important donation, and it’s a long-standing one. We have had a great partnership with the RBC Foundation. In this capacity, in their support for the EDC, it’s been six years; and we continue to grow,” she said.