FAQ - for Alberta business

I’m interested in learning more about starting a business in Alberta. Where can I go for more information?

The Business Link is Alberta’s business information service, a Government of Alberta and Government of Canada funded not-for profit organization that helps entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses. You can visit their website, call them or visit them at either their Calgary or Edmonton locations to learn more.

You can also contact Service Alberta, an Alberta government ministry, for other business information and resources.

How do I find out how to sell my products and services to the Government of Alberta?

For more information about selling to government, contact the Procurement Services Branch (780) 427-3266 or visit the Selling to Government section of the Service Alberta website.

To bid on a government contract online, visit the Alberta Purchasing Connection or for bidding opportunities in the field of construction, visit COOLNet Alberta. In addition, the MERX website provides bidding opportunities from Federal and Provincial Governments.

I have an idea for a new product. Where can I find information about getting a patent and developing a business plan?

Please visit the Business Link’s Innovation page for information and resources to help you develop your concept and obtain a patent. The Business Link is Alberta’s business information service, a Government of Alberta and Government of Canada funded not-for profit organization that helps entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses.

I own a small business and I would like more information on bringing my business online. Do you have any resources that might be helpful?

Please visit the Business Link’s E-Business Page for information and resources to help you start and run an on-line business. The Business Link is Alberta’s business information service, a Government of Alberta and Government of Canada funded not-for profit organization that helps entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses.

Where do I get a loan for my business? Can I get a grant for my business? What financial incentive programs can the Alberta Government offer my company?

For information on obtaining financing for your business, visit the Grants and Finances section of the Business Link. The Business Link is Alberta’s business information service, a Government of Alberta and Government of Canada funded not-for profit organization that helps entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses.

Please see our list of Business Resources for a list of resources on gaining access to capital.

Where can I find information on upcoming events for companies?

Please check out our Events Calendar for upcoming events.

What Government of Alberta services are available to Alberta businesses?

The Government Alberta offers many services for Alberta businesses. For example, The Government of Alberta funds the not-for-profit organization Business Link, Alberta’s business information service that helps entrepreneurs starts and grow their businesses.

BizPal is another service provided to businesses by the Government of Alberta in conjunction with the Government of Canada. BizPal simplifies the permit and licensing process by providing a customized list of permits and licences you will need to start your business.

For help increasing your business productivity, please visit the Government of Alberta’s Productivity Alberta website.

The Government of Alberta website lists additional Programs and Services for Business.

How can I increase my productivity?

The Productivity Alberta website provides productivity enhancement tools, programs and services to businesses. The website also provides a web-based Productivity Assessment Tool designed to help you identify what’s working and what you need to improve in your organization.

How do I grow my sales and find new customers?

The Government of Alberta’s industry directors provide matchmaking services for businesses, by helping connect suppliers with buyers. You can find the directors listed by sector in the Key Contacts section.

You can also visit trade shows such and National Buyer Seller Forum and Cold Climate Construction Conference, where you can exhibit your products and services to a focused audience of oil sands and construction professionals. Check out our Events Calendar.

The Business Link, Alberta’s business information service, hosts networking events and can provide you with advice and information for growing your sales.

What should I consider before making the decision to export?

Determining if your business is export ready requires an assessment of the resources and knowledge your business already has and consideration of changes your business would have to make in order to export successfully. For example, can your staff handle the extra demand associated with exporting? Are modifications required to make your product or service appeal to foreign customers? How easily can your product be transported? Will you require local representation in your export market? Do you have the capacity to serve both your existing domestic customers and your new foreign clients?

Visit Is your company export ready? for more information.

I have a question about employment standards. Who do I ask?

The Ministry of Human Services provides information about employment standards including a tool kit and video basics for employers. If you have a specific question or concern, they have a contact form and a hotline.