Community Futures East Kootenay (CFEK) is leading on the Innovate for Impact initiative which aims to advance social entrepreneurship in the Kootenay region by supporting purpose-driven innovators with the tools, training, and community to build impactful, sustainable ventures.
We are looking for up to two (2) motivated business and socially minded students to work as Student Consultants on a co-op placement or summer student position to support social enterprises across the Kootenay region. As a Student Consultant, you will work closely with early-stage and growing social enterprises to strengthen their business models, enhance their community impact, and develop sustainable strategies for long-term success. This position offers hands-on experience in social impact consulting, rural economic development, and entrepreneurship, providing a valuable opportunity to apply academic learning to real-world challenges.
CFEK helps to foster strong, resilient local economies working in partnership with local, Indigenous, provincial and federal government partners, businesses, community organizations and other stakeholders. We champion economic growth and sustainability throughout our vibrant service area. As a small team, working from the main office in Cranbrook and remotely, we are passionate about ensuring our rural communities are great places to live, work and play.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
• Work in partnership with local social enterprises to identify organizational needs and growth opportunities.
• Conduct market research, stakeholder interviews, and data analysis to inform strategic recommendations.
• Support the development of business plans, financial models, and impact measurement frameworks.
• Contribute to workshops and training sessions and assist in the planning, coordination, and delivery of events such as community workshops, networking sessions, and stakeholder forums
• Prepare professional reports and presentations summarizing findings and recommendations.
• Work with a range of social enterprises across the Kootenay region under the guidance of an experienced supervisor

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS
• Current student in business, economics, social sciences, sustainability, or a related field.
• Strong analytical, research, and communication skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and the ability to engage partners and build effective relationships.
• Interest in social enterprise, rural economic development, and sustainable business models.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in diverse settings.
• Commitment to social impact and community-driven development.

HOURS – Full time up to 500 hours per position Summer Term Position – Between beginning of May 2026 and end of August 2026.

LOCATION – Cranbrook, with potential to be a remote position. Preference is given to those living within the CFEK Service Area.
The position is open to a recent graduate or someone still within their post-secondary education who will return to their course in September 2026. Preference will be given to co-op students.
PAY – $22.50/hour

Supervisor – Robyn Peel, CFEK Community Economic Development Manager

Interested applicants, please send resume and cover letters to robyn@cfek.ca