Supporting Entrepreneurs Through Coaching, Lending, and Training

Our Advantage

Our entire mission is based on helping business owners like you be successful. We are your partner in business. We’re here for you every step of the way, from planning your business to providing flexible financial options - and we’re available for coaching any time. Studies show that, when compared to banks, our clients' businesses grow faster and last longer. That is the advantage of being our Partner in Business.

Our Roots

We are part of a national economic development program that has supported small businesses and community economic development since 1986. There are 269 Community Futures offices in rural communities across Canada - 34 in British Columbia. Our Prince Rupert office is a non-profit development corporation guided by a volunteer Board of Directors and supported by local committee members and staff of business professionals. You can rest assured that your partners are like you - local business professionals and entrepreneurs on their path to success.

Our Community

We provide professional services to communities of Prince Rupert, Port Edward, Metlakatla and Lax K'walaams, Gitxaala, Dodge Cove, Oona River and Hartley Bay.

Lead the way with wisdom, compassion, and integrity to our community entrepreneurial success.

Our Vision

To build our community entrepreneurship through coaching, lending, and training.

Our Mission

We provide professional services to communities of Prince Rupert, Port Edward, Metlakatla and Lax K'walaams, Gitxaala, Dodge Cove, Oona River and Hartley Bay.

Our Community

Our Staff

John Farrell

Executive Director

John has worked the last 25 years in community development on the North Coast and Haida Gwaii. He is a small business owner and a past-president of the Prince Rupert and District Chamber of Commerce. He serves on a number of local and provincial boards including the Prince Rupert Port Authority, the Port Edward Harbour Authority, and chairs the parent support group of Annunciation School. John holds a bachelors degree in political studies and a management certificate from the Sauder School of Business.

Marlene Lindquist

Operations Manager

Marlene brings a wealth of experience to her role, having spent over a decade managing the day-to-day operations of Community Futures, coupled with an additional 10 years of prior experience. She's enjoys giving back to the community by offering affordable bookkeeping solutions to local not-for-profits and charities. During her free time, you'll often find Marlene indulging in her favorite pastimes, such as hunting, golfing, and most recently—trying out new recipes in the kitchen.

Zac Paolo

Business Development Officer

Zac holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Business Technology Management and Finance from the University of Northern BC. As a lifelong Rupertite, Zac is well-versed in the local business landscape and has been involved in his family's small business for over 10 years. In his spare time, Zac enjoys sharing his knowledge of business and personal finance with local residents in the form of volunteering for business-related events as a way of giving back to his community.

Karla Abreu

Volunteer Regional Business Liaison

Karla holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Strategic Communications from the University of Minnesota and a Diploma in Screenwriting for Film and TV from the Toronto Film School. She has a strong background in Advertising/Marketing and storytelling, as well as years of experience working as a copywriter, screenwriter, and digital content creator. Karla uses her skills and knowledge in advertising and storytelling to help passionate local entrepreneurs, and businesses like Community Futures, reach and engage with their audience in an authentic and creative way. In her spare time, Karla enjoys watching movies, creating videos, reading, writing, and exploring the outdoors.


Our Board

Ray Pedersen

Vice Chair
Loans Committee Chair
Entrepreneur

Dave McKeever

Director
Education Sector

Chris Armstrong

Chair
Arts & Entertainment

Mahesh Gautam

Treasurer
Financial Sector

Job Opportunities

Cow Bay Marina - Wharfinger

Full-time

Posted on

March 25, 2024

Learn More

Community Futures is looking for Wharfingers for the Cow Bay Marina. This position is ideal for University and College Students.

Annual Reports