Volunteer in the virtual classroom
Help shape the future of entrepreneurship in Calgary
What is the Haskayne Entrepreneurial Advising Team?
A volunteer group comprised of entrepreneurs, early-stage investors and industry experts who have a passion for supporting student-led entrepreneurial activity. Members act as advisors, pitch coaches and judges to encourage entrepreneurial thinking in the virtual classroom, and over 14,000 students have benefited to date. The program is led by the Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the Haskayne School of Business.
Ian Macdonald, HEAT member since 2023
"It was an honour to serve as a judge, coach, and advisor in this program for the second year in a row.
Especially when you get to see a team go from classroom concept in ENTI 317 ideation and pitch advising to the $10,000 champions on the big stage."
Who would make a great volunteer?
We are seeking individuals who have the following qualities:
- Possess entrepreneurial experience or a passion for entrepreneurship.
- Love the idea of working with students in experiential class-based activities at the University of Calgary.
- Have a creative and entrepreneurial mindset to help students assess the validity of their business ideas.
- Have a background in business or are familiar with entrepreneurial approaches (e.g. value propositions, business models, market research or pitching, etc.).
- Are passionate about supporting the development of well-rounded, well-educated Haskayne students.
What is the time commitment?
Volunteer sessions are scheduled for either 1.5 or 3 hours; once opportunities become available, we will notify you via email, and you can sign up based on your availability.
Chloe Potter's Story
Chloe Potter has always been passionate about healthcare; with the help of ENTI 317 and HEAT advisors, Cole’s Shirt was founded in 2020, a company that provides accessible hospital wear to cancer patients and those with autoimmune conditions undergoing long-term treatments.
Joanna Pariseau's Story
Joanna Pariseau started Taste the City in 2023 and was coached by HEAT advisors throughout ENTI 201 and beyond. The product facilitates an easy way for customers to experience three to four restaurants in a single night. You may even see her on your TV screens soon, as Taste the City could make an appearance on Dragon’s Den in 2025.
What are the benefits of joining?
- Share your knowledge and experience to help students succeed personally and professionally.
- Connect with other volunteer members from the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Canada during in-class activities, online in our LinkedIn group and at community events.
- Aid in shaping a new generation of entrepreneurial thinkers and business leaders who can help to diversify the Alberta economy.
Ready to join?
Would you like to shape the future of our startup landscape in Calgary? Are you ‘all in’ to support young entrepreneurs and their ideas?