We're putting Income First
Momentum is a change-making organization that combines social and economic strategies to reduce poverty.
We use a holistic approach that covers everything from financial literacy, entrepreneurship and skills training, to developing communication skills, building self-confidence and establishing positive social networks.
Everything we do is grounded in a community economic development approach. This means we work with individuals, businesses, communities and systems to build a more inclusive local economy.
To us, it’s about more than just creating jobs and starting businesses—it’s about inspiring vibrant communities where everyone plays a role.
Our Five-Year Focus
Momentum’s strategic direction is rooted in the Sustainable Livelihoods approach that drives us to work with both individuals and systems.
Three Priorities
Momentum’s three priorities build on progress we’ve made and assets we’ve developed over the course of our 30+ years in the field as well as complementing the strengths of other organizations committed to Calgary’s Enough for All strategy. “Income First—Gains that Last” focuses on work that leads to meaningful income gains with programs for individuals as a primary focus.
Vision: Our desired future
Every Person has a sustainable livelihood and contributes to their community.
Mission: How we work towards the vision
We work with people living on lower incomes and partners in our community to create a thriving local economy for all.
Values: Our fundamental principles and beliefs
- Integrity Our actions are consistent with our values and beliefs. Integrity is the cornerstone of our organization’s foundation. We take great care in what we do and how we do it at a personal, program and organizational level and are willingly held accountable for our actions before our stakeholders.
- Compassion & Social Justice We are committed to building a society where everyone is valued. We care deeply for the well-being of our participants and each other and are committed to building an inclusive society.
- Equity & Belonging We are continually building an organizational culture that fosters opportunities for every person to belong and thrive, while celebrating and contributing their unique perspectives. We expect fairness, respectful engagement, and a willingness to learn in all situations.
- Sustainability Our environmental, social, and economic wellbeing are interconnected. We recognize that people living on lower incomes are more impacted by climate change. We commit to improving the health of our planet and nurturing simplicity for generations to come.
Our Annual Donors Report
Small actions lead to big changes. See the measurable difference Momentum is making in our community.
Our Impact
$9M
invested through 3,200+ microloans $5.5M
saved by more than 3,000 participants in Momentum's matched-savings programs 58,000+
people have participated in Momentum programs
Building Sustainable Livelihoods
The end goal of our Sustainable Livelihoods Framework is our vision: Every person has a sustainable livelihood and contributes to their community.
Our Sustainable Livelihoods Framework
Momentum conducted a long-term evaluation that engaged participants over a two-year period to explore the ways they are building sustainable livelihoods. The evaluation results found growth in participants’ skills and knowledge, self-confidence, money management skills and income, as well as improved debt management, living situation (housing), and employment.
Our journey towards reconciliation
We’ve committed to becoming a trusted partner in reconciliation with Indigenous communities.
Our Partners
Community and Work Experience Partners
Momentum is highly engaged in the community and participates regularly in a broad range of committees, networks and organizations. Momentum also works with other organizations throughout the city to deliver programs for participants who may not be able to get to Momentum’s office. We also work with businesses in the community to provide Trades Training program participants with the on the job experience they need to enhance their skills and build their careers.
Learn more about us
In addition to our programming, we dedicate significant resources to public policy research, advocacy, and community collaboration.
Our History
Under Walter Hossli, Founder and Director Emeritus, Momentum began operations in 1991 as an employment program of the Mennonite Central Committee of Alberta. Then known as MCC Employment Development, the initial focus was on providing trades training to new Canadians. In 2002, the organization became independent from MCC Alberta. And then in 2006, Momentum adopted its current name to better represent the full scope of its work as a community-based, charitable organization. Today, Momentum still provides trades training to new Canadians, and our program portfolio has expanded to include small business training, micro business loans, personal money management courses and financial coaching. We also contribute to community wide change through Calgary's Enough for All poverty reduction strategy.
Charitable Status Information
Books audited by: BDO Canada LLP, 903 - 8th Ave SW, Suite 620, Calgary AB, T2P 0P7
Banking: Royal Bank of Canada
Registered Charitable Number: 88379 3218 RR0001