Evaluation of the Community Futures Program in Western Canada

Table of Contents (November 2008)

• Executive Summary
• Introduction
  • Background
  • Evaluation Objectives
  • Approach
  • Methodology
    • Document and Literature Review
    • Database Review and Analysis
    • Interviews
    • Surveys
    • Case Studies
    • Labour Market Data
    • Strengths and Limitations of the Methodology
• Program Relevance
  • Findings
    • Continued Need for the Community Futures Program
    • Degree of Complementarity/duplication with other Organizations
    • Consistency with the National CF Program and WD Objectives
• Program Design and Delivery
  • Findings
    • CF Networks
    • Management of the Investment Funds
    • Performance Data
    • Level of Awareness
    • Recruitment of Staff and Board Members
    • Factors Impacting the Achievement of Program Results
• Program Impact
  • Findings
    • Appropriateness of Information, Referral and Counseling Services to Clients
    • Impact on Business Knowledge and Skills of Clients
    • Impact on Creation and Strengthening of Businesses
    • Program Impact Short-term: Language of Choice
    • Program Impact Intermediate: Community Economic Development
    • Program Impact Medium-term: Assistance with Development and Diversification
    • Program Impact Intermediate:  Community Capacity
    • Program Impact Long-term
    • Program Impact Long-term - Unintended Benefits
• Cost-Effectiveness
  • Findings
    • Cost-Effectiveness
    • Alternatives
    • Lessons Learned
• Conclusions

Management Action Plan