Wrapping Up the First Cohort of the Hougen Group of Companies Mentorship Program

Whitehorse’s entrepreneurial scene just hit an exciting milestone. The first cohort of the Hougen Group of Companies Mentorship Program has officially wrapped up, bringing together emerging founders and seasoned business leaders for six months of learning, collaboration, and real relationship-building.

Operated in partnership with Yukonstruct and the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce, and proudly supported by the Hougen Group of Companies, this program set out with a simple goal: help new entrepreneurs grow faster and with more confidence by connecting them with people who’ve already walked the path.

And it worked—really well.

A Community Powered by Connection

Over the course of the program, over 20 mentors and mentees paired up across a wide range of industries—think tech, tourism, creative enterprises, and more. Each match followed a relationship-based approach, giving participants space to build trust, tackle challenges, and develop the skills they need to move their businesses forward.

As Yukonstruct’s Executive Director, Shayna Hammer put it;

“The stories and outcomes we’re seeing from this first cohort show how mentorship can accelerate learning, strengthen leadership, and build lasting community ties.”

That’s exactly the kind of impact this program was designed to spark.

A Night to Celebrate—and Look Ahead

To honour the effort and growth that took place over the past six months, the partners recently hosted a Wrap-Up Discussion Panel and Networking Reception at the MacBride Museum.

The evening included:

• reflections from participants in the inaugural cohort
• remarks from program partners and sponsors
• and a chance for the broader business community to connect, learn, and explore future mentorship opportunities

It wasn’t just a celebration—but a chance to keep the momentum going with a second cohort.

As Erik Hougen shared;

“The Hougen Group of Companies is proud to support programs that nurture local talent and innovation. We’re excited to see the lasting impact this mentorship model will have on Yukon’s business community.”

Interested in Joining the Next Cohort?

Applications for the waitlist to the next cohort are now open for both Mentors and Mentees. If you’re looking to grow your business skills, give back to the community and connect with Yukon’s next generation of entrepreneurs, this is a great place to start.

Learn more and sign up here: https://yukonstruct.com/hougen-group-of-companies-mentorship-program/

Congratulations to members of the inaugural cohort of the Hougen Mentorship Program!