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Alberta Business Grants Ltd.

This grant blog addresses the following topics:

  • Why few start-up grants exist
  • Start-up grants presented in the following categories: Indigenous, Technology and Agriculture
  • Three secret gems
  • Other start-up resources

Do grants exist for start-up companies?

ARE THERE MANY

WHERE ARE THEY?

Contrary to what you probably heard, you will find few grants for start-up companies. And it shouldn’t come as a surprise.

Governments are risk adverse; they are reluctant to give money to start-up businesses.

Everyone knows that most businesses start and fail within a couple years.

Most grants are for established businesses (and established non-profits).

Some grants do exist for start-up businesses, and we present them here for your convenience.

If you do want to become a grant writer, or you want to learn how to win government grants, check out my Advanced Grant Writing Course.

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100 Golden Grant Rules

Download now!

5 Grant Gotchas

There is grant money waiting for YOU! BUT if you step in a “grant trap,” your application is a NO! Learn the FIVE most common errors to AVOID in government grants! Get the 5 Grant Gotchas now to save you countless hours.

Download Now! Five Grant Gotchas

There is grant money waiting for YOU! BUT if you step in a “grant trap,” your application is a NO! Learn the FIVE most common errors to AVOID in government grants! Get the 5 Grant Gotchas now to save you countless hours.

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1. INDIGENOUS

Métis Entrepreneurs’ Assistance Program (MEAP) | Apeetogosan:

Value: The grant can cover up to 30% of your costs, to a maximum of $99,999.

Description: The Métis Entrepreneurs’ Assistance Program (MEAP) provides equity assistance for the start-up or the expansion of small businesses. The MEAP grant is not a stand-alone grant. It is applied to approximately 30% of the total project costs.

Eligibility:

  • You must be an Alberta Resident and your business must be located in Alberta, (starting a business in another province? Contact the office to ask for the phone number of the IFI for your province).
  • You must have a minimum of 6 months to one year of experience in the industry you are starting your business
  • Projects must be a start-up or expansion of a business
  • The business must generate an income for the applicant of at least $20,000 annually
  • Total project must exceed $20,000
  • The applicant must obtain financing through Apeetogosan for the costs that are not covered by the grant and the cash equity
  • The grant cannot contribute to passive investments, property, houses or buildings, cannabis or tobacco related businesses and the sale of alcohol or gambling products
  • The applicant must show that the business is viable and sustainable

 

Eligible Expenses:

As mentioned above the grant can cover up to 30% of your costs, to a maximum of $99,999. You are required to have a minimum of 10% of your project totals costs. The remaining 60%, after your contribution and the grant, would be funds from a business loan.

So for example if your project total was $100,000 here is what the break down would look like:

  • Your cash equity: $10,000
  • Grant equity: $30,000
  • Business Loan: $60,000

 

Deadline: Ongoing.

Contact: Apeetogosan | 780-452-7951 or 1-800-252-7963 | office@amdi.co

Website: https://www.apeetogosan.com/meap-grants

2. TECHNOLOGY

Micro-Voucher | Alberta Innovates:

Value: Up to $10,000, paid directly to a Service or Product Provider.

Description:

The Micro Voucher Program helps Alberta tech companies to design and/or develop innovative technology solutions by providing up to $10,000 in non-dilutive funding.

Qualified activity includes:

  • Design, engineering, and prototype development.
  • Product testing and refinement.
  • Patent development; (excluding patent maintenance fees).
  • Advanced market assessment or segmentation analysis.
  • Certifications.
  • Advanced business and/or marketing strategies.

Eligibility:

  • You have fewer than 500 full-time employees and less than $50,000,000 in annual gross revenue.
  • You can pay a minimum 25 per cent cash contribution of the total eligible project costs.
  • You have a novel technology with an opportunity for intellectual property.
  • Your digital technology could scaleup in one to two years, if successful.
  • Your functional requirements and features are defined, and you can prove that the concept is technically feasible.
  • You have or are working towards establishing a management team and foundational business agreements.
  • You can identify target customer, customer segments and possible markets.
  • You have completed an initial high-level competitive position analysis and understands any regulatory hurdles to entering the market.
  • You can complete the proposed project within six months.

Deadline: Continuous.

Contact: Alberta Innovates | 403-210-5229 | intake@albertainnovates.ca

Website: https://albertainnovates.ca/funding/micro-voucher-program/

Alberta Digital Traction Program | Alberta Innovates:

Value: Up to $50,000 in non-dilutive funding, business coaching, and support to attain digital traction.

Description: The Alberta Digital Traction program supports digital tech companies with software development at the core, who are looking to increase their customers, increase revenue, and scale to a global marketplace.

Eligibility:

  • You are an Alberta digital tech company that relies on software development as core to one or more of your products and/or services.
  • You intend to rapidly scale your digital technology in one-to-two years.
  • You have fewer than 50 full-time employees and less than $1,000,000 in annual reoccurring revenue.
  • You have a minimum viable product to test.
  • Your digital technology offers a significant competitive advantage over existing solutions.

Deadline: Continuous.

Contact: Alberta Innovates | 403-210-5229 | intake@albertainnovates.ca

Website: https://albertainnovates.ca/funding/alberta-digital-traction-program/

3. AGRICULTURE

Value-Added Program | Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP):

Value: 

  • Value-Added Stream A: (maximum grant $50,000) applications are assessed based on eligibility criteria and merit scoring
  • Value-Added Stream B: (grant over $50,000 to maximum grant $250,000) applications are assessed based on eligibility criteria and merit scoring

Description:

The Value-Added Program supports the continued diversification, innovation, growth and prosperity in Alberta’s value-added food and bio-industrial sectors. Processors can apply for grants for value-added projects that increase company sales and production capacity, expand market opportunities and create jobs in Alberta.

Eligibility:

To be eligible, an applicant must be:

  • a bio-industrial processor or food processor that is in the business of changing an agricultural product into a value-added product
  • an individual or a corporation registered in Alberta that is operating in Alberta, or that can establish to the satisfaction of the minister that it will operate in Alberta

*For information on additional requirements, see Value-Added Program Terms and Conditions.

Eligible activities:

Applicants can apply for activities under one or more of these funding categories:

  • processing capacity expansion
  • food safety improvement
  • new product and process development
  • market development and access

Deadline: Stream A – Opens April 15, 2024*; Stream B – Opens April 15 – May 27, 2024 

*Application window will close when funds are fully utilized and may reopen if new funds become available.

Contact: Value-Added Program team | 310-FARM (3276) | s-cap.valueaddedprograms@gov.ab.ca

Website: https://www.alberta.ca/value-added-program

Golden Grant Rules

THREE SECRET GEMS

GRANT GEM ONE

As we’ve been building the Alberta Business Grants database for years, we’ve come across government funded programs. Are they exactly grants? No. But they are government programs you can benefit for free.

FREE GOVERNMENT FUNDED SELF-EMPLOYMENT TRAINING

It’s a training program designed to help Albertans get into business quickly. The folks at the Microbusiness Training Centre are awesome. A program exists in Calgary too. Here is my interview with the program’s President and Managing Director:

Learn more here: https://microbusiness.ca/service/self-employment-training-now-online/

Here is the contact information: Call: 780-482-4462 Email: microbiz@microbusiness.ca

GRANT GEM TWO

Finding grants can be time consuming and painful, so I put my entire grant database online for you for FREE! Enjoy.

Download now!

5 Grant Gotchas

There is grant money waiting for YOU! BUT if you step in a “grant trap,” your application is a NO! Learn the FIVE most common errors to AVOID in government grants! Get the 5 Grant Gotchas now to save you countless hours.

Download Now! Five Grant Gotchas

There is grant money waiting for YOU! BUT if you step in a “grant trap,” your application is a NO! Learn the FIVE most common errors to AVOID in government grants! Get the 5 Grant Gotchas now to save you countless hours.

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GRANT GEM THREE

Grants can be a distraction. To help you navigate them wisely, I teach you about government grants on my YouTube channel.

OTHER START-UP GRANT RESOURCES

While few grants exist for start-up businesses, Alberta has several government-funded and private organizations to help you get started. Here is a list to help you get started:

OTHER STARTUP RESOURCES

BUSINESS LINK:

Description: Business Link help Alberta small businesses start and succeed. Their team of experts provide clarity and confidence as you start and grow your business.

Support services include:

  • Free one-on-one coaching and guidance
  • Market research
  • Resources, guidebooks, and interactive tools
  • Education, training, and networking opportunities
  • Support and resources for Indigenous and immigrant entrepreneurs

Programs:

Contact: Business Link | 1-800-272-9675 or 780-422-7722

Website: http://businesslink.ca/

ALBERTA WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS (AWE):

Description: Since 1995, Alberta Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) has provided tools and resources to women across the province to help them achieve their entrepreneurial goals and to grow their businesses. For over 28 years, AWE has built a network of successful educational and mentorship programs built around our core values: Capital, Connection, and Capacity.

Programs:

Contact: Alberta Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) | 1-800-713-3558 | info@awebusiness.com

Website: https://www.awebusiness.com/

STARTUP CANADA:

Description: StartUp Canada help every entrepreneur by connecting local ecosystems from coast to coast to coast, empowering women to catalyze change, supporting exporters with global goals, and bridging the gap between entrepreneurs and the Government of Canada.

Programs:

Contact: Startup Canada | hello@startupcan.ca

Website: http://www.startupcan.ca/

PLATFORM CALGARY:

If you’re looking to start a career in tech, build your own business, or invest in a local startup, Platform Calgary will connect you with the people and resources you need.

Programs for Startups:

Contact: Platform Calgary │ (403) 284-6400 │ communications@platformcalgary.com

Website: https://www.platformcalgary.com/

EDMONTON EDGE FUND:

Description: The City of Edmonton has allocated $5 million to the administration of Phase 1 of the Edmonton Edge Fund. Phase 1 of the program is designed to address a current gap in funding available to innovators and entrepreneurs operating in or entering the Edmonton market. Funding will be offered in the form of project-based grants through the following 2 streams:

  • Start Stream
  • Scale & Grow Stream

Contact: Edmonton Edge Fund │ edgefund@edmonton.ca

Website: https://www.edmonton.ca/programs_services/funding_grants/edge-fund

VENTURE MENTORING SERVICE OF ALBERTA (VMSA):

Description: The Venture Mentoring Service of Alberta is an entrepreneur mentorship program that supports founders at the scale-up stage by surrounding them with a team of business leaders. We provide ongoing guidance and mentorship through coaching sessions, focussed on building effective leaders.

Contact: Venture Mentoring Service of Alberta │ info@vmsalberta.org 

Website: https://www.vmsalberta.org/

VENTURE CAPITAL FUNDS – ALBERTA ENTERPRISE CORPORATION:

Description: Venture capital provides tech start-ups with the necessary bridge between early funding (including grants and angel capital) and funding available to larger, more established businesses (such as bank loans, institutional funding or public markets).

Contact: Alberta Enterprise Corporation | P: 1-587-402-6601 | TF: 1-877-336-3474 | info@alberta-enterprise.ca

Website: https://www.alberta-enterprise.ca/how-we-work/why-venture-capital/

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT BANK OF CANADA (BDC):

Description: BDC support small and medium-sized businesses in all industries and at every stage of growth with money and advice.

BDC Capital exists to help turn great ideas into great companies. And great companies into engines of jobs, growth and wealth creation.

Financing and investment BDC Capital offers:

Note: BDC does not offer grants, interest-free loans or lines of credit. If you have any questions concerning the eligibility of your project, please contact your local business centre.

Contact: Business Development Bank of Canada | 1-877-232-2269

Website: https://www.bdc.ca/en

ATB:

Description: Whether you’re just starting out or an established business, ATB is the place to find outstanding services supporting Alberta entrepreneurs.

Entrepreneur Services:

Contact: ATB Business Support Team │ 1-877-363-4855

Website: https://www.atb.com/business/accounts-and-services/entrepreneur-services/

WESTERN ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION CANADA:

Description: Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) is becoming two new agencies to better grow the western Canadian economy.

Services and information:

Contact: PacifiCan | 604-666-6256 or 1-888-338-9378 (toll-free) | info@pacifican.gc.ca
PrairiesCan | 780-495-4164 or 1-888-338-WEST (9378) (toll-free) | WD.contactus-contactez-nous.DEO@prairiescan.gc.ca

Website: https://www.wd-deo.gc.ca/eng/home.asp

COMMUNITY FUTURES NETWORK OF ALBERTA:

Description: Community Futures has been helping rural Alberta entrepreneurs for over 30 years with guidance, business loans, training, and free resources.

Get everything you need to succeed with our flexible loans, business tools, and support.

Services:

Contact: Community Futures Network of Alberta | 1-877-482-3672

Website: https://albertacf.com/

EDMONTON UNLIMITED:

You have an idea or need a little help getting your business off the ground, Edmonton Unlimited have you covered with programs to develop, prototype and formalize your idea or plan, and experts who can guide you through the process, from securing investments to business and sales plans that will launch you into market.

From planning it all out to marketing the product, Edmonton Unlimited programs will give you the tools and advice to bring your idea to the next step.

Programs & Workshops:

Contact: Edmonton Unlimited | hello@edmontonunlimited.com

Website: https://edmontonunlimited.com/

EXPLORE EDMONTON (FORMER EDMONTON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION (EEDC)):

Description: At Explore Edmonton, we’re all about connection. Our team has created a unique identity for Edmonton and developed a strong reputation in the eyes of people around the world who are looking for opportunity here. Through the relationships we create with our partners and stakeholders, we showcase our city’s capabilities, strengthen our global connections, and create diverse opportunities for investment in local industries. And we have a lot of fun doing it!

Explore Edmonton energizes the lives of all Edmontonians. By bringing in major events, we generate tourism dollars that support local businesses, help businesses attract talent by increasing the vibrancy of the city, and create a more compelling argument for improving city infrastructure, which benefits everyone. Our signature events—K-Days, Farm Fair International, and the Edmonton Pro Rodeo—bring the community together and are enjoyed by people of all ages, year after year.

Destination Development & Strategy:

Contact: Explore Edmonton | +1 780-401-7696 | info@exploreedmonton.com

Website: https://exploreedmonton.com/

NORTHERN ALBERTA BUSINESS INCUBATOR(NABI):

Description: NABI (Northern Alberta Business Incubator) is a sector-agnostic incubator created by the City of St. Albert in 1989. NABI assists early-stage businesses to launch, grow and succeed by delivering a range of business supports, educational/development programming and mentorship.

NABI Offers:

  • Dedicated cubicle, private office, and anchor spaces offering numerous perks, amenities and services with flexible month-to-month lease terms
  • Business advice and mentorship
  • Educational sessions and networking opportunities
  • Virtual membership and mail service to support a professional corporate identity
  • Meeting room and classroom space rentals

Contact: NABI | +1 780-460-1000 | info@nabi.ca

Website: https://nabi.ca/

INNOVATE CALGARY:

Description: Innovate Calgary is the innovation company of the University of Calgary. From ideation to commercialization, we offer the resources, facilities, and expert guidance you need to bring your innovation to Calgary, Alberta, and beyond.

Innovate Calgary partners with the University of Calgary to offer a wide range of program and funding opportunities to help innovators learn, grow, and succeed.

Find the program and funding opportunities most relevant to you and your goals HERE.

Contact: Innovate Calgary | (403) 270-7027

Website: https://innovatecalgary.com/

STARTUP CALGARY:

Description: By partnering with the best resources in and out of Calgary, Startup Calgary foster startups, connect founders and support the local business community with programming, events, and initiatives.

Contact: Startup Calgary│info@startupcalgary.ca

Website: https://www.startupcalgary.ca/

OPPORTUNITY CALGARY INVESTMENT FUND (OCIF) │ CALGARY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT:

Description: The Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund (OCIF) was created as a catalyst to attract investment, drive innovation, and spur transformative economic development in the city. OCIF has made a wide range of public and private investments that drive economic growth, job creation, and ecosystem development, positioning Calgary to lead digital transformation across our key sectors.

With $100M total fund, the program was created from the City of Calgary’s existing reserve. $82M funds committed to support multiple sectors: agribusiness, technology, training, energy, and more.

Contact: OCIF│ocif@calgaryeconomicdevelopment.com

Website: https://www.opportunitycalgary.com/

FUTURPRENEUR CANADA:

Description: Since 1996, Futurpreneur has fostered the entrepreneurial passions of Canada’s diverse startup founders ages 18-39. We are the only national non-profit organization that provides young aspiring entrepreneurs across Canada with the loan financing, mentorship and resources they need to start or buy a business.

Loan and Mentorship Offerings: 

Contact: Futurpreneur Canada | +1 800-464-2923 | info@futurpreneur.ca

Website: http://futurpreneur.ca/en/get-started/financing-and-mentoring/

VENTUREPARK LABS:

Description: Venturepark, Canada’s only business growth ecosystem that includes business, capital, brand, innovation and consumer packaged goods specialists, is proud to report the results of a new economic impact study conducted by MNP LLP. 

Programs:

Contact: Venturepark Labs | +1 403-237-2388 | push@ventureparklabs.ca

Website: https://www.ventureparklabs.ca/

STARTUP TNT:

Startup TNT is dedicated to improving access to capital for early-stage tech companies. We do this by increasing the pool of professional early-stage investors, educating entrepreneurs on fundraising best practices, and facilitating lasting relationships between both parties.

Startup TNT Investment Summits help raise capital for startups and make it easier for local investors, both seasoned and new, to angel investing.

$150K+ invested into each Winner ($100k+ from the individual angels and $50k from the VC fund, syndicated as one cheque) + $25K-$250K side deals into additional companies.

Many angels decide to invest more than their original $5k cheque; therefore, the Winner will likely raise $150k – $500k+ in total. In 2023, our 11 Summit Winners received an average of $185K.

Additional side deals negotiated at the Summit Finale with non-winners range from $25k to $350k.

Contact: Startup TNT | https://www.startuptnt.com/contact

Website: https://startuptnt.com/summit-ix

ENTREPRENEURS WITH DISABILITIES PROGRAM:

Western Canadians who have a disability can access a network of business professionals and a world of resources through Western Economic Diversification Canada’s Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP). The EDP provides business information, training and development, mentoring and one-on-one counseling services.

Rural Communities

In rural communities, the program is delivered through Community Futures offices.

Urban Areas

In urban areas, Western Economic Diversification Canada works with organizations to deliver the program. For more information on the program and the services available contact the organization listed below that is nearest to you.

Alberta

Edmonton
Prospect Human Services Society
Telephone: 1.877.483.2562

Calgary
Momentum
Telephone: 403.272.9323

Rural Alberta
Community Futures Network of Alberta
Telephone: 1.877.482.3672

Website: https://www.wd-deo.gc.ca/eng/13643.asp

Apeetogosan (Métis) Development Inc. & Pinnacle Business Services Ltd.:

Apeetogosan is committed to providing profitable and sustainable financial services and support to clients who seek the means to attain economic self-sufficiency.

Funding:

Contact: Apeetogosan │ 780-452-7951 or 1-800-252-7963 │ office@amdi.co

Website: http://apeetogosan.com/

AGRICULTURE FINANCIAL SERVICES CORPORATION:

Agriculture Financial Services Corporation (AFSC) is a provincial Crown corporation with a private sector Board of Directors that provides producers, agribusinesses and other small businesses loans, crop insurance and farm income disaster assistance. AFSC has provided Alberta farmers with hail insurance for 80 years and has grown into a diverse corporation with several core business areas, including crop insurance, livestock price insurance, farm loans, commercial loans and farm income disaster assistance.

Contact: AFSC staff │1.877.899.2372 │ info@afsc.ca

Website: https://afsc.ca/

SCALE AI:

The Acceleration program puts funding on the table to help finance the growth of AI startups and SMEs across Canada. The program targets those initiatives that:

  • promote the growth of startups applying AI to supply chains
  • strengthen collaboration between Canada’s top AI incubators and accelerators
  • attract additional venture capital and investment in AI to Canada
  • encourage top AI talent to establish their business in Canada
  • support the emergence of new global AI leaders

The goal of the Acceleration program is to support the growth of the future giants of AI emerging from Canada’s promising ecosystem.

The Acceleration program does not directly fund individual AI startups or SMEs. You can benefit from Scale AI’s support by participating in one of the accredited programs offered by partnering organizations across Canada.

Contact: SCALE AI │ info@scaleai.ca

Learn more: https://www.scaleai.ca/acceleration/

ACCELERATE FUND:

The Accelerate Fund provides an alternate source of financing to Alberta startups that aren’t yet venture capital ready. The fund helps to foster the growth of Alberta’s technology sector and diversify the province’s economy. Capital for Accelerate Fund comes from Alberta Enterprise Corporation, an organization that works on behalf of the Government of Alberta to invest in venture capital funds to support the growth of early-stage technology companies.

$23 million angel matching fund for Alberta startups:

  • Alberta-based tech
  • Early-stage startups
  • Various B2B sectors
  • Proven product demand

Contact: Accelerate Fund │ info@acceleratefund.ca

Website: https://www.acceleratefund.ca/funding/

TECHNATION:

At TECHNATION, we unite Canada’s technology sector, governments, and communities for Canada’s future. For more than 60 years, we’ve championed Canada’s technological future by helping to facilitate and enable the tech industry and government to work together to grow and evolve with new technology available.

From start-ups and small and medium-sized enterprises, to national and multi-national organizations, we invite you to join us and discover how the Canadian tech industry is working together to identify and develop pragmatic solutions to pressing national challenges and to influence national technology strategy in critical areas that matter to you.

Contact: TECHNATION │ 905-602-8345 │ memberservices@technationcanada.ca

Website: https://technationcanada.ca/en/

STARTUP LLOYDMINSTER:

At Startup Lloydminster, we believe that entrepreneurship is a powerful driver of economic development and job creation. We are committed to nurturing a culture of innovation and collaboration, where aspiring entrepreneurs can turn their ideas into reality and existing businesses can scale and expand.

Our state-of-the-art facility offers a collaborative workspace, equipped with the latest technology and amenities to meet the diverse needs of our members. Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur, a small team, or a growing startup, we have the perfect space for you to work, connect, and collaborate with like-minded individuals.

Contact: Startup Lloydminster | (587) 789-1361 | info@startuplloyd.com

Website: https://www.startuplloyd.com/

FORESIGHT CANADA:

Foresight is Canada’s cleantech ecosystem accelerator. We bring together industry, government, academia, investors, and innovators to address today’s most urgent climate issues and support a global transition to a green economy. Cleantech innovation starts here!

Our mission is to accelerate the growth and impact of cleantech ecosystems across Canada to achieve deep decarbonization and net-zero climate targets. We are focused on accelerating the global transition to a clean economy through problem-driven innovation.

Programs:

Contact: Foresight | +1 604-245-0042 | info@foresightcac.com

Website: https://foresightcac.com/

NEXT 36:

For students or recent grads with big dreams and an Entrepreneurial mindset:

Every year, we select 36 of the most entrepreneurial undergrads and recent grads from coast-to-coast who we believe have what it takes to build Canada’s next narwal.

Whether you have a pre-existing early stage startup that you want to take to the next level, or you have an idea that you want to turn into a reality, Next 36 can help. Same great founder development, delivered virtually.

Application Period: August 17 – October 23, 2023.

Contact: NEXT | info@nextcanada.com

Website: https://www.nextcanada.com/next-36/

HARVEST BUILDERS:

Harvest Builders is a talent studio that works with venture-backed early-stage tech businesses to overcome the biggest barrier to a startup’s growth – building and scaling talent.

With our team’s unique expertise in scaling some of the largest consumer technology businesses in Canada, Harvest has proven strategies that address the challenges early stage ventures face in finding and engaging talent, onboarding, and efficiently scaling.

Contact: Harvest │ https://www.harvest.builders/contact

Website: https://www.harvest.builders/

CREATIVE DESTRUCTION LAB:

Creative Destruction Lab (CDL) is a nonprofit organization that delivers an objectives-based program for massively scalable, seed-stage, science- and technology-based companies.

CDL has designed a new approach to enterprising research and innovation, nurturing an entrepreneurial mindset through expert opinion, funding opportunities, research analysis, and business development support.

Contact: Creative Destruction Lab │ info@creativedestructionlab.com

Website: https://www.creativedestructionlab.com/

THE ACCELERATOR CENTRE:

At the AC, we exist to help ambitious dreamers like you impact global change through your business. We’re your hub for action that provides an extensive selection of customizable opportunities for you to tap into—allowing you to rapidly bring your innovation to life.

Over the past year we have supported over 300 startups, provided mentorship, access to capital, networks, and platforms to scale. These startups have gone on to achieve remarkable success, generating millions of dollars in revenue, creating jobs, and making significant contributions to our community.

Contact: The Accelerator Centre │ 519-342-2400 │ info@acceleratorcentre.com

Website: https://www.acceleratorcentre.com/

ACAMP:

Founded in 2007, ACAMP is a unique industry-led advanced technology product development centre that entrepreneurs count on to move their innovation from proof-of-concept to manufactured product by providing access to multidisciplinary engineers, technology experts, unique specialized equipment, and industry acumen.

We focus on electronics hardware, firmware, software (ML/AI), sensors, and embedded systems. We are the only advanced technology product development group in Canada that provides a full range of support at each stage of the product development process.

ACAMP also supports the development of autonomous transportation technologies and is leading the Autonomous Systems for Transportation Consortium ― promoting collaboration between the Alberta government, local technology developers and multinational automotive companies.

Contact: ACAMP | +1.780.468.2443 | +1.403.291.8946 | info@acamp.ca

Website: https://www.acamp.ca/why-work-with-us/about/

AMII:

One of Canada’s three centres of AI excellence as part of the Pan-Canadian AI Strategy, Amii is an Alberta-based non-profit institute that supports world-leading research in artificial intelligence and machine learning and translates scientific advancement into industry adoption.

Take your curiosity in AI and transform it into competitive advantages with opportunities to implement strategies in your business and foster professional development.

  • Your business – Partner with us to accelerate your AI adoption, build internal capacity, and secure a competitive advantage.
  • Training – Take a leading role in your organization with technical and management education built on the foundations of our academic excellence.

Contact: Amii │ hello@amii.ca

Website: https://www.amii.ca/

PLUG AND PLAY ALBERTA:

Description: We catalyze technological advancement by connecting blue chip corporations with the brightest startups across the globe. We are building a world-class innovation platform in Alberta to attract top technology and investment to the region and support Albertan entrepreneurs to scale and grow, hire tech talent, and propel digital transformation across the province.
  • Corporate InnovationWe supercharge the innovation of over 500 industry-leading corporations by keeping them at the forefront of industry trends.
  • Accelerator ProgramsWe run over 60 industry-focused accelerator programs in over 35 cities globally.
  • Venture Capital We invest in over 250 companies a year alongside the world’s best CVs
Contact: Plug and Play │ +1 408-524-1400 Website: https://www.plugandplaytechcenter.com/

SELF-EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM:

Description:The Self-employment Program offers eligible Albertans who are looking to develop and start a new business with formal training, business plan development, one-to-one business counselling, coaching and guidance.

If you are interested in participating in a Self-Employment program:

Self-employment Programs are developed by providers, and each program may offer different timeframes, course content and class sizes. All Self-employment Programs provide:

  • instructor-led training and supports to develop your business plans
  • one-to-one business counselling, coaching and guidance to implement your business

Website: https://www.alberta.ca/training-and-employment-services-self-employment-program

THE MICRO-GRANTS | INNOVATORS & ENTREPRENEURS FOUNDATION:

Value: Offers eleven (11) micro-grants of $5000 each ($55,000 total in micro-grants!) 

Description:  The Innovators & Entrepreneurs Foundation (IEF) Micro-grant program is designed to provide a financial boost to Canadian small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) that are already operational, generating revenue, and who need a financial boost to improve their business operations.

The goal of the IEF Micro-grant program is to support founders belonging to equity-deserving and/or racialized communities across Canada overcome financial obstacles and achieve growth, sustainability, and success in their businesses.

IEF Micro-grants offer its recipients a business cash injection to be used to fund various business activities such as marketing campaigns, digital enhancements, employee training, international expansion, equipment upgrades, and more. IEF collaborates with its micro-grant partners and sponsors to determine the eligibility requirements for each micro-grant category.

Deadline: The Fall 2023 micro-grant categories and category-specific requirements will be announced on September 25, 2023. 

Contact: Innovators & Entrepreneurs Foundation │   

Website: https://www.ief-fie.ca/microgrants/

ALBERTA INNOVATES REVENUE ACCELERATOR │ GROWTHX

Description:  The Alberta Innovates Revenue Accelerator helps Alberta-based tech startups improve sales performance and create consistent revenue results.

You’re assigned a dedicated expert sales coach with proven sales playbooks for 16 weeks.

Whether it’s your first sale or you’re struggling to create systematic revenue growth that scales, we work closely with you to develop a plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals.

We then work together to execute that plan and deliver real revenue results.

Website: https://growthx.com/founders/alberta-founders/

500 GLOBAL ALBERTA ACCELERATOR:

Description: The Alberta Accelerator by 500 program was designed with the shared vision of strengthening the Edmonton-Calgary Corridor as a global hub for tech innovation.

This 12-week hybrid program rotates between batches in Edmonton and Calgary, with 6 weeks of in-person delivery and 6 weeks of virtual delivery.

We encourage you to submit an application if you:

  • Are a  pre-seed or seed stage startup
  • Have a tech-enabled solution that is already commercialized and in market
  • Are based in Alberta or looking to land and expand in Alberta

Website: https://500.co/accelerators/alberta-accelerator

FINTECH CADENCE

Description: Advancing the financial system to serve all Canadians for the better.

Programs:

  • IFH Lab – Building a financially healthier future.
  • Ascension – Reach your funding milestone.
  • Fintech Challenge – Canada’s professional case-competition
  • Certificate – Discover the world of fintech in a 7-course program
  • Fintech Hub – Your essential starting point to build, grow and scale.

Website: https://fintechcadence.com

TELUS COMMUNITY SAFETY AND WELLNESS ACCELERATOR (CSW ACCELERATOR)

Description: The TELUS Community Safety & Wellness Accelerator (CSW) is a first-of-its-kind accelerator focused on addressing the social and safety challenges facing our communities. In partnership with AlchemistX, the Edmonton Police Foundation, and Alberta Innovates, the CSW Accelerator is bringing proven Silicon Valley acceleration programming to the social impact space in Edmonton, Alberta.

Successful applicants will have the opportunity to:

  • gain targeted introductions to the CSW Accelerator’s partners across Alberta including community agencies and governmental partners (e.g., the Edmonton Police, non-profit organizations, social sector agencies, academic partners), and
  • receive intensive training to succeed via Alchemist Accelerator’s proven program.

All participants gain access to Alchemist’s global network of over 30,000 entrepreneurs and mentors and will be supported to connect with investment and partnership opportunities.

The benefits of this program include:

  • 1:1 Mentorship
  • Access to partnerships
  • Access to global funding and VC network
  • Access to first customers and customers in new locations via our network
  • Access to deep, specialized mentorship
  • Extensive coaching that meets the needs of your start up
  • Proven curriculum
  • Space in Edmonton available for on-site support and connections to explore all that Edmonton and Alberta have to offer
  • Access to resources and information about visas and investment attraction to support your start-up scaling in Canada
  • Access to grants for travel and connection to support to relocate to Canada

Website: https://cswaccelerator.com/

THRIVE CANADA ACCELERATOR | SVG VENTURES:

Description: The THRIVE Canada Accelerator supports early-stage agrifood tech startups from across the value chain whose technologies drive us towards a more efficient, sustainable, and secure agriculture future. Supporting companies across the agrifood value chain, the THRIVE Canada Accelerator places a strong emphasis on companies creating a sustainable future through innovation.

The THRIVE Canada Accelerator program is specifically designed to support Seed to Series A stage companies. At this stage, companies are past ideation and are at least in the pre-minimum viable product, prototype in beta or product in market (paying customers) growth stages. This program benefits companies looking to attract both national and international customers.
THRIVE has other programs to support earlier stage companies such as the THRIVE Academy and Venture Studio.

Website: https://thriveagrifood.com/canada-accelerator-program/

ADVANCED GRANT WRITING COURSE:

Do you want to become a grant writer? It’s growing industry and grant writers are hard to find. I’ll teach you how to build and grow and grant writing business. Check out my course below.

Contact: davidk@albertabusinessgrants.ca

Website: https://albertabusinessgrants.ca/grant-writing/

FIND GRANTS

If you need to find grants, start searching for FREE.

If you have already found your grant, read the SIX questions to need to ask a grant agency before you write. Click here.

Download now!

5 Grant Gotchas

There is grant money waiting for YOU! BUT if you step in a “grant trap,” your application is a NO! Learn the FIVE most common errors to AVOID in government grants! Get the 5 Grant Gotchas now to save you countless hours.

Download Now! Five Grant Gotchas

There is grant money waiting for YOU! BUT if you step in a “grant trap,” your application is a NO! Learn the FIVE most common errors to AVOID in government grants! Get the 5 Grant Gotchas now to save you countless hours.

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FINAL ADVICE AND TIPS FOR STARTUPS

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Golden Grant Rules

Download Now! Five Grant Gotchas

There is grant money waiting for YOU! BUT if you step in a “grant trap,” your application is a NO! Learn the FIVE most common errors to AVOID in government grants! Get the 5 Grant Gotchas now to save you countless hours.

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