Gap Analysis and Needs Assessment Research Project – Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba

Community Futures Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) Gap Analysis and Needs Assessment Research Projects active from July 2022 to August 2023. 

The mandate of the Community Futures is to support small business development and rural economic diversification . They actively work with community and business leaders to foster rural economic growth and are partners in building vibrant and sustainable communities. 

The project resulted in increased exposure to Community Futures resources and assistance, providing business owners with greater knowledge and support. It also yielded a deeper understanding of business owners’ needs, frustrations, interests, and feedback, enabling more targeted and effective support strategies. This initiative helped bridge gaps in existing relief programs and ensured that under-represented groups received the necessary aid to thrive in the post-pandemic economy.

This comprehensive survey aimed to gather valuable insights into the specific needs and obstacles faced by businesses during the recovery phase.

Objectives

1. Conducted quantitative and qualitative market research for 25 of 28 regions in Alberta, 16 regions in Manitoba and 13 regions in Saskatchewan. The goal was to determine additional help needed by 2,826 RRRF clients in 2023 and beyond.

2. Surveyed Business owners on marketing, efficiency, technology, and infrastructure. This comprehensive survey aimed to gather insights into needs and obstacles for the businesses.

Accomplishments

• Managed the project, which included facilitating meetings, creating agendas, assisting with project communications, monitoring project scope, budget, timelines, addressing issues and monitoring risks and developing project status report.

• Survey Development

• Data Collection, Analysis and Results sharing

• Client Interviews

• Analysis and Results sharing

• Final results included an overall summary as well as a region-specific report for each region participating.

  
  

Outcomes and Benefits

The project increased awareness of Community Futures’ resources, offering business owners improved access to knowledge and assistance. It also provided valuable insights into their challenges, desires, and concerns, allowing for more precise and effective support strategies. By identifying gaps in existing relief programs, the initiative ensured that underserved groups received the crucial support they needed to succeed in the post-pandemic economy. 

Results included overall provincial summaries and 46 region-specific reports for each participating region.