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PURPOSE The UNESCO Chair of anticipatory systems for innovation and new venture creation at the University of New Brunswick is focused on helping improve economic opportunities largely for entrepreneurs from disadvantaged regions and from marginalized groups. Research activities are conducted but, the primary objective is to use the concepts of foresight thinking and anticipatory systems to help targeted groups improve their economic opportunities. The article provides details on the chairs activities and how they have contributed to economic improvement for both organizations and communities/regions. SUMMARY Integrating futures thinking and anticipatory thinking into programs can help improve economic opportunities The UNESCO Chair's approach has helped improve economic opportunities, for organizational and municipalities/economic regions. It is hoped that the results can be used to help others bring this approach into their programs. Perhaps those running/part of entrepreneur/small business development programs, accelerators and incubators will see the University of New Brunswick (UNB) UNESCO program and may look at ways to include futures thinking and anticipatory systems thinking in their programs. Finally, the approach has helped cities/municipalities, perhaps those involved in regional economic development will integrate the Chairs approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]