The KORE Catalyst program is wrapping up its first season in which a cohort of eight outdoor recreation entrepreneurs from across the Kootenays met regularly to discuss all things business and helped each other grow.
Meeting twice monthly for six months, we explored challenges of building outdoor businesses from cross-border shipping and tariff complexities to trade show strategies, AI tools, wholesale partnerships, and the tension between growth and burnout.
Each session combined learning with peer discussion and problem-solving. The result? A community of entrepreneurs who strengthened their businesses while learning from each other’s challenges and successes. Participants gained clarity on their operations, built sustainable strategies for growth, and found rare support for rural entrepreneurs.
What Participants Are Saying
“Joining the KORE Catalyst group helped me develop a new product line for my business. With solid advice from Christian and fellow group participants, I feel confident that I’m making the right decisions. Learning from other businesses’ challenges and opportunities has been insightful.” – Abby Wilson, West Kootenay Hiking
“KORE helped me connect with like-minded entrepreneurs and access a business coach with industry experience. This improved my decisions and understanding of business vision.” – Cory Hein, Assiniboine Design
“KORE encompasses the brilliant trifecta of incubator, mentor and coach for any entrepreneur starting their journey, and/or for those brave brand-builders in the very thick of it. They are the epitome of ‘we’ve got your back.'” – Todd Lawson, Rise Outdoors
The January 2026 Cohort: Focused and Action-Oriented
Building on our first cohort, we’re launching a streamlined 3-month program in January. This isn’t just group coaching—it’s a mastermind where outdoor industry entrepreneurs learn from each other while getting expert guidance on business fundamentals.
Over six bi-weekly sessions, we’ll dive deep into four core areas:
- Marketing: Connect with your customers and tell your story
- Sales: Build systems that convert interest into revenue
- Finance: Understand your numbers and make profitable decisions
- Entrepreneurial Development: Strengthen your mindset, decision-making, and leadership
Each session combines teaching with peer discussion and problem-solving. You’ll leave every meeting with clarity on next steps and fellow entrepreneurs who face similar challenges.
Plus: Individual Support When You Need It
Beyond the group sessions, you’ll receive three one-on-one coaching calls with Christian Rawles, KORE’s Business Advisor. These sessions give you time to work through challenges, refine strategies, and get guidance for your business.
Ready to Join?
The January cohort is limited to six participants to ensure everyone gets time and attention. If you’re an outdoor industry entrepreneur ready to grow your business alongside a community of peers, apply now.
Investment: $300 for six group sessions + three 1:1 coaching calls
Apply here: https://form.jotform.com/251046046826253
Questions? Reach out to Christian Rawles at christian@koreoutdoors.org.