Your Next Business Boost Might Be at Alberta Innovates
If you are a 2SLGBTQIA+ entrepreneur or small business owner in Banff, Canmore, or anywhere in the Bow Valley, securing funding and support can be one of the biggest hurdles to growth. The good news? Alberta Innovates offers a powerful platform filled with resources designed to help you innovate, grow, and scale, especially if your business is working in tech, sustainability, health, or digital transformation.
What Is Alberta Innovates?
Alberta Innovates is a publicly funded organization that supports entrepreneurs, researchers, and businesses across Alberta through targeted funding programs, research services, and coaching. Their focus is on helping businesses solve real-world problems, adopt emerging technologies, and bring innovative ideas to market.
How Entrepreneurs Can Use This Site
The Funding section is where entrepreneurs should start. You’ll find dozens of programs that support various business stages and sectors. Key features include:
Searchable Filters to narrow down funding by business stage, industry, and goal
Clear Application Guidelines and deadlines
Program Contacts if you need help navigating the options
Whether you are developing a new product, growing your digital infrastructure, or collaborating with researchers, there’s likely a program to support your work.
What to Look For
Some standout programs to explore include:
Accelerating Innovations into Care (AICE): Great for health-focused or wellness-based startups
Digital Innovation in Clean Energy (DICE): Ideal for environmentally minded ventures
Industry Commercialization Associates: Funding for hiring talent to move your idea forward
Make sure you’re ready with a solid business or strategic plan, as most programs require clarity on outcomes, budgets, and timelines.
Ready to Explore?
Visit albertainnovates.ca/funding and start browsing. Pair it with SMARTstart support from the Bow Valley Pride Network to sharpen your application and business strategy.
📣 Follow us for more funding tips: linkedin.com/company/banff-pride
