Financing Small Business in Alberta

Q: What financing solutions are suitable for small businesses in the growth phase in Alberta?

For businesses in the growth phase, financing solutions such as growth capital, long-term loans, and revolving lines of credit are particularly suitable. These options allow businesses to finance their expansion, acquire new equipment, or enter new markets. The BDC also offers support programs specifically designed to help SMEs navigate the critical stages of their development.

Q: What criteria do lenders evaluate when assessing the creditworthiness of small businesses in Alberta?

Lenders evaluate several criteria to assess the creditworthiness of small businesses in Alberta, including the company’s credit status, cash flow, debt management, and financial projections. Collateral, such as business assets or personal assets, is also considered. Solid financial management and a good repayment history significantly improve the chances of securing financing.

Q: How can businesses in Alberta optimize their financial situation to obtain favorable credit?

To obtain favorable credit, businesses in Alberta should maintain a good credit status, effectively manage their debts, and demonstrate financial stability through solid financial statements. Building positive relationships with lenders, planning clear repayment strategies, and presenting realistic financial projections are effective ways to improve their credit profile.

Small business financing in Alberta is a critical component that supports the economic growth and competitiveness of SMEs in the province. Access to tailored financial resources allows entrepreneurs to launch, manage, and grow their businesses in a dynamic economic environment. Whether it’s for purchasing equipment, developing new technologies, or improving infrastructure, the financing solutions available in Alberta, such as loans, grants, and other financial services, play a crucial role. Understanding these options and knowing how to use them effectively can make all the difference in a business’s success.

Types of Financing

In Alberta, small businesses have access to several types of financing designed to meet specific business needs, including loans, credit cards, and various government grants. Each option offers unique benefits in terms of cost, flexibility, and eligibility requirements.

Loans for Businesses

Loans are one of the most common forms of financing for small businesses in Alberta. They allow businesses to access the capital needed to start or grow, with repayment terms that vary based on the agreement with the lender. Loans can be secured or unsecured, with interest rates and repayment periods tailored to the business’s financial situation.

Grants for Eligible Businesses

Grants are funds awarded to businesses without the obligation of repayment, making them an attractive way to finance specific projects. Eligible grants can cover various needs, ranging from technological innovation to productivity improvements. For example, the Alberta government offers grants to support SMEs in areas such as research and development, digital transformation, and green projects.

Credit Card Financing

Credit card financing is a practical solution for covering everyday operational expenses. While this option can provide great flexibility and quick access to funds, it can also lead to high costs due to interest rates. Therefore, managing this debt prudently is crucial to avoid overburdening the business financially.

Loans Covering a Percentage of Project Costs

Some loans are designed to cover a percentage of the total costs of a project, reducing the amount the business needs to provide from its funds. This type of financing is often used for large-scale projects that require significant investment, such as purchasing specialized equipment or major infrastructure improvements.

Maximum Grant Limits

The maximum grant limits vary depending on the grant program. This amount is determined by specific criteria, such as the nature of the project, the business sector, and the size of the business. Understanding these limits is crucial for optimizing financing requests and effectively planning project budgets.

Grants for Eligible Industries

Grants for eligible industries are designed to support businesses in strategic sectors of Alberta’s economy. These grants help stimulate innovation, encourage economic growth, and create jobs in targeted sectors.

Grants for All Industries

Alberta offers grants aimed at a wide range of industries, covering sectors as diverse as manufacturing, digital technologies, agriculture, and more. These grants aim to support businesses in enhancing their capabilities, implementing new technologies, and developing innovative products.

Eligible Industries for Grants

Industries eligible for grants include those that align with Canada’s economic development objectives, such as technological innovation, carbon footprint reduction, and sustainable growth. Key sectors often include clean technology, life sciences, digital technologies, and creative industries. Businesses must demonstrate their eligibility by meeting the defined criteria of the grant programs.

Grant Amounts Awarded

The grant amount awarded varies depending on the program and the specific needs of the business. Some programs offer grants ranging from a few thousand to several million dollars, depending on the project’s anticipated impact on the industry and the economy. For example, projects focused on technological innovation may receive larger amounts due to their potential for growth and transformation.

Eligible Fishing Industries

The fishing industries also benefit from grants to support sustainable development, infrastructure modernization, and improved resource management practices. These grants help businesses adopt environmentally friendly technologies and improve the quality and safety of seafood products.

Financial Services and Specific Grants

Certain grants and financial services are specifically designed for professional, scientific, and technical industries. These services aim to help businesses in these sectors innovate and remain competitive in the global market.

Services for Professional, Scientific, and Technical Industries

Financial services for professional industries include targeted grants and loans to support research, development, and the implementation of advanced technologies. These financing solutions enable businesses to invest in scientific research, develop new products, and strengthen their technological capabilities.

Eligible Grants for Professional Industries

Eligible grants for professional, scientific, and technical industries can cover projects ranging from laboratory research to the commercialization of new technologies. For example, the Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP) of the National Research Council of Canada provides grants to innovative small and medium-sized businesses to help them achieve their R&D goals.

Maximum Grant Limits

The maximum limit for these grants varies depending on the project and the specific program, but it can reach several hundred thousand dollars. This amount depends on the scope of the project, its potential impact on the market, and the business’s capacity to execute its research and development initiatives.

Information on Grants for Cultural Services

Cultural services, such as arts, media, and creative industries, also have access to specific grants. These financing solutions support the creation of innovative content, the preservation of cultural heritage, and the digital transformation of cultural businesses. The Canada Media Fund and the Canada Council for the Arts are examples of programs offering grants to help these industries grow and thrive.

Conclusion

Small business financing in Alberta is a critical tool for stimulating innovation, economic growth, and competitiveness in global markets. By understanding the various types of financing, eligibility criteria, and maximum grant limits, businesses can better navigate Alberta’s complex financing ecosystem. Whether through loans, grants, or specialized financial services, small businesses have access to a comprehensive range of resources to support their projects and ensure their sustainable development.

43 opportunities available

Alberta Innovates — Agriculture & Environment (AE) Program

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Innovates — Agriculture & Environment (AE) Program

Fosters innovation and promotes sustainable practices in agriculture

Eligible Funding

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Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Professional, scientific and technical services
Public administration

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATEINNOVATION

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Innovates — Alberta Digital Traction Program

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Innovates — Alberta Digital Traction Program

Money for digital technologies and products

Eligible Funding

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Up to 75% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Information and cultural industries

Types of eligible projects

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Alberta, Canada

AFA — Indigenous Arts Individual Project Funding

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta, Canada

AFA — Indigenous Arts Individual Project Funding

Funding opportunity for Indigenous artists' development in Alberta

Eligible Funding

maxCount2

Eligible Industries

Arts, entertainment and recreation

Types of eligible projects

Alberta, Canada

Accelerating Innovations into CarE (AICE) – Validate

Grant and FundingClosed

Alberta, Canada

Accelerating Innovations into CarE (AICE) – Validate

Supports Alberta SMEs to validate health tech innovations

Eligible Funding

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Up to 25% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Health care and social assistance

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONTECHNOLOGYINNOVATIONDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Alberta, Canada

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Innovates — Voucher Program

Voucher for mid-to-late stage development in Alberta

Eligible Funding

From $10,001 to $100,000
Up to 75% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Information and cultural industries
Professional, scientific and technical services

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONTECHNOLOGY

Alberta, Canada

Discover how much grant funding is available for your business

Subsidize your projects with government financial aid

Use our free grant estimator to quickly identify the available grant amounts for which your company may be eligible.

Unlock Your Business’s Full Potential with Government Grants and Financial Aid

Are you looking for ways to secure funding for your business and reduce costs? Government grants, subsidies, and financial aid programs offer valuable opportunities for companies across various industries. Whether you’re a startup, an established small business, or a growing enterprise, you may be eligible for non-repayable grants, tax credits, and financial assistance to support your projects.

Discover How Much Grant Funding Your Business Can Access

Many businesses miss out on free funding opportunities simply because they don’t know they exist. That’s why we’ve created a free grant estimator—a powerful tool designed to help you identify available grant amounts based on your company’s profile, sector, and project type. In just a few clicks, you can gain insights into the financial aid programs that match your business needs.Our estimator scans a wide range of government grants, including:

Innovation and R&D grants for companies developing new products, services, or technologies.
Export and international expansion subsidies to help businesses enter new markets.
Workforce development funding for training, hiring, and upskilling employees.
Green energy and sustainability grants for eco-friendly initiatives and energy-efficient projects.
Startup and entrepreneur support programs for new businesses seeking capital and resources.

Maximize Your Business Growth with Non-Repayable Financial Assistance

Unlike traditional loans, many government grants and subsidies do not require repayment, making them a valuable way to boost your company’s financial health. By securing business funding, you can invest in key areas such as technology, infrastructure, hiring, and research without straining your cash flow.Here’s how our free grant estimator can help you: ✅ Quickly assess your eligibility for various funding programs. ✅ Save time by filtering out programs that don’t apply to your business. ✅ Unlock hidden financial opportunities that you might not be aware of. ✅ Reduce financial risks by accessing non-repayable funding sources. ✅ Increase your chances of approval with up-to-date funding information.

Take Advantage of Government Funding Opportunities Today

Don’t let your business miss out on grant funding that could propel your success. Whether you need support for a new project, expansion, hiring, or innovation, government financial aid programs are available to help. Start using our free grant estimator now and discover how much grant money your company can access today!

Grant and FundingClosed

Alberta, Canada

Aboriginal Business Investment Fund

Funding for Alberta Indigenous community development

Eligible Funding

From $150,000 to $750,000

Eligible Industries

All industries

Types of eligible projects

Alberta, Canada

AFA — Theatre Individual Project Funding

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta, Canada

AFA — Theatre Individual Project Funding

Funding for Alberta artists in theatre/performance project development

Eligible Funding

maxCount2

Eligible Industries

Arts, entertainment and recreation

Types of eligible projects

Alberta, Canada

AFA — Public Art Galleries Operating Funding

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta, Canada

AFA — Public Art Galleries Operating Funding

Three-year funding for Alberta public visual arts exhibitions

Eligible Funding

Up to 22% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Arts, entertainment and recreation

Types of eligible projects

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Innovates — Micro Voucher Program

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Innovates — Micro Voucher Program

Voucher for SMEs in early-stage tech development in Alberta

Eligible Funding

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Up to 75% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Professional, scientific and technical services

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONTECHNOLOGY

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Media Fund — Alberta Made Production Grant

Grant and FundingClosed

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Media Fund — Alberta Made Production Grant

Funds for small-budget productions in Alberta

Eligible Funding

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Up to 25% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Arts, entertainment and recreation

Types of eligible projects

HUMAN RESOURCES

Alberta, Canada

Tired of scrolling through all these programs?

Filter funding opportunities relevant for your company on the helloDarwin platform

Sort over 3,000 business funds by your industry, projects and location with helloDarwin's free app.

In today’s fast-paced economic environment, where innovation, digital transformation, and competitiveness require ongoing investment, grants and public funding are crucial tools for business success. However, despite the abundance of available programs, many businesses underuse them—often due to their complexity, lack of awareness, or the administrative burden required to apply.

That’s where helloDarwin’s grant platform comes in: a centralized, intelligent, and guided solution designed to help companies gain faster, easier access to the financial support they’re entitled to.

A Platform Designed for Modern Business Needs

helloDarwin’s grant platform was designed to match the realities of today’s businesses. It caters to all types of organizations—from startups and SMEs to nonprofits and scaling enterprises—with a clear mission: to offer a centralized, tech-driven, and human-supported entry point to the world of grants and government funding.

Thanks to its user-friendly interface and smart search engine, businesses can instantly identify the most relevant grants for their needs. Whether the goal is to hire talent, develop new technologies, expand internationally, or embrace sustainable practices, the platform offers comprehensive support—from identifying relevant programs to finalizing the funding application.

A Vast and Continuously Updated Grant Database

One of the platform’s key strengths lies in its extensive database of over 3,000 grant and funding programs, covering local, provincial, and federal opportunities across Canada. This ensures that businesses can discover the full spectrum of available funding—whether it’s for digitalization, workforce development, marketing, sustainability, or infrastructure.

The database is constantly updated to reflect new funding programs, changes in eligibility criteria, and submission deadlines. Businesses using the platform benefit from up-to-date, relevant information that allows them to act at the right time, with the right tools.

Personalized and Smart Grant Matching

helloDarwin offers more than just a directory. With just a few details—such as your business sector, location, size, and project type—the platform provides a personalized eligibility analysis. The built-in estimator also allows users to forecast the amounts they might receive, helping them make better-informed strategic decisions.

This initial simulation is completely free and offers businesses a quick understanding of their grant potential. Instead of postponing important projects due to budget constraints, companies can explore viable financial support options that make those projects feasible sooner than expected.

Full-Service Expert Support

Applying for grants can be overwhelming: deciphering eligibility, preparing required documents, writing persuasive proposals, and tracking deadlines. helloDarwin solves this by providing end-to-end support through its network of experts and funding consultants.

These professionals assist with every stage of the process—from eligibility assessment and document preparation to submission and follow-up. Businesses benefit from a turnkey service that maximizes success rates while minimizing internal workload.

This also helps avoid common mistakes—missing a submission date, providing incomplete information, or misunderstanding program rules—that could jeopardize a funding application. With helloDarwin’s experts at their side, companies can approach the grant process with confidence and focus on their core operations.

Diverse Project Categories and Funding Options

helloDarwin’s platform accommodates a wide variety of business projects, making it a valuable tool regardless of the company’s size or industry. Whether you’re a manufacturer looking to automate your production line, a service provider rolling out a new CRM, or a food producer aiming to expand internationally, there’s likely a grant program that fits your goals.

Popular funding categories include:

Digital Transformation: software, cybersecurity, automation, AI
Human Resources: hiring graduates, professional training, retention
Export & Market Development: trade missions, translation, digital campaigns
Sustainability: energy efficiency, waste management, eco-certification
R&D & Innovation: product development, process improvement, prototyping
Infrastructure & Capital Assets: renovations, equipment purchases, workspace upgrades

Many programs offer reimbursement rates ranging from 25% to over 90% of eligible costs, and some can be combined for even greater impact.

Direct Impact on Business Performance

By simplifying access to funding, helloDarwin empowers businesses to lower their investment risk, accelerate project timelines, and enhance their competitiveness. The effect is tangible: a delayed project can be launched; a strategic hire can be made; an international expansion can be undertaken under more favorable conditions.

Long-term, businesses that take advantage of grants become more productive, attract better talent, increase market visibility, and strengthen their credibility with stakeholders. In this way, grants become more than just financial support—they are a strategic management tool that fosters long-term resilience and innovation.

A Perfect Balance of Technology and Human Support

helloDarwin’s hybrid approach—combining smart digital tools with real human expertise—is what sets it apart. Users benefit from a sleek, efficient platform that helps them search, filter, and evaluate funding opportunities, as well as direct access to professionals who help them turn those opportunities into concrete results.

This makes the platform suitable for all types of users. Independent business owners can self-navigate and explore grants at their own pace, while those looking for complete support can rely on dedicated experts for a hands-free experience. The result is a flexible, scalable, and personalized solution that adapts to every business profile.

Strengthening the Canadian Business Ecosystem

Beyond individual companies, helloDarwin’s grant platform plays a key role in strengthening Canada’s broader business ecosystem. By making grants more accessible, it helps stimulate innovation, encourage sustainable growth, support post-pandemic recovery, and accelerate digital and green transitions across sectors.

It also fosters collaboration among businesses, consultants, and service providers. helloDarwin’s marketplace allows grant recipients to easily connect with vetted professionals—marketing agencies, IT consultants, sustainability experts—who can help execute their funded projects.

This dynamic ecosystem not only improves outcomes for funded initiatives but also contributes to a more connected and supportive business community.

A Simple and Accessible Process

Signing up is easy and quick. Users create a business profile, answer a short questionnaire, and within minutes receive a tailored overview of their funding options. The estimator tool is free to use, and the initial consultation with a funding advisor is offered at no charge.

This makes the platform accessible even to small companies without in-house financial or grant expertise. It effectively democratizes access to public funding, ensuring that all businesses—not just large corporations—can take full advantage of government programs.

From Idea to Execution: Enabling Growth

helloDarwin’s platform guides businesses from the first spark of an idea to successful grant application and project execution. It encourages strategic thinking: What goals can we reach if we access the right support? How can we grow faster, smarter, and more sustainably with public funds?

Rather than viewing grants as optional or secondary, companies that use helloDarwin’s platform begin to see them as a key component of their business strategy. Whether investing in digital tools, hiring for the future, reducing environmental impact, or entering new markets, grants can be the enabler that turns vision into reality.

Alberta Innovates — Industry R&D Associates Program

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Innovates — Industry R&D Associates Program

Funds Alberta tech firms for in-house research expertise

Eligible Funding

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Up to 25% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Information and cultural industries
Professional, scientific and technical services

Types of eligible projects

TECHNOLOGY

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Innovates — Agri-Food and Bioindustrial Innovation Program

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Innovates — Agri-Food and Bioindustrial Innovation Program

Funding for agri-food and bioindustrial sector innovations

Eligible Funding

maxCount2
Up to 75% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Construction
Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONTECHNOLOGYENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATEINNOVATION

Alberta, Canada

AFA — Community Support Organizations Operating Funding

Grant and FundingClosed

Alberta, Canada

AFA — Community Support Organizations Operating Funding

Annual funding for arts-supporting nonprofit organizations in Alberta

Eligible Funding

No Condition

Eligible Industries

Arts, entertainment and recreation

Types of eligible projects

Alberta, Canada

Campus Alberta Small Business Engagement (CASBE) Program

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta, Canada

Campus Alberta Small Business Engagement (CASBE) Program

Supports collaboration between Alberta SMEs and post-secondary institutions

Eligible Funding

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Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Professional, scientific and technical services

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONTECHNOLOGYINNOVATION

Alberta, Canada

Grant and FundingClosed

Calgary, Alberta

Emerging Innovators Challenge

Money for GHG emissions reduction technologies in Alberta

Eligible Funding

Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Manufacturing
Information and cultural industries
Professional, scientific and technical services
Administrative and support, waste management and remediation services

Types of eligible projects

ENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATE

Calgary, Alberta

Download the official 2025 grants guide

Access key insights to maximize your funding opportunities

Understand the different funding programs and find the best options for your business.

Unlock Your Business’s Full Potential with Government Grants and Financial Aid

Discover How Much Grant Funding Your Business Can Access

Innovation and R&D grants for companies developing new products, services, or technologies.
Export and international expansion subsidies to help businesses enter new markets.
Workforce development funding for training, hiring, and upskilling employees.
Green energy and sustainability grants for eco-friendly initiatives and energy-efficient projects.
Startup and entrepreneur support programs for new businesses seeking capital and resources.

Maximize Your Business Growth with Non-Repayable Financial Assistance

Take Advantage of Government Funding Opportunities Today

Alberta Innovates — Industry Commercialization Associates

Grant and FundingClosed

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Innovates — Industry Commercialization Associates

Supports commercialization by funding salaries for business innovation talent

Eligible Funding

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Up to 75% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Professional, scientific and technical services

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATION

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Innovates — Enabling Better Health through Artificial Intelligence

Grant and FundingClosed

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Innovates — Enabling Better Health through Artificial Intelligence

AI program for enhancing Alberta's healthcare innovation capabilities

Eligible Funding

maxCount2

Eligible Industries

Health care and social assistance

Types of eligible projects

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)

Alberta, Canada

Indigenous Employment Training Partnerships Program

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta, Canada

Indigenous Employment Training Partnerships Program

Funding for group training projects to support Indigenous communities

Eligible Funding

No Condition

Eligible Industries

All industries

Types of eligible projects

HUMAN RESOURCES

Alberta, Canada

PrairiesCan — Aerospace Regional Recovery Initiative

Other SupportGrant and FundingLoans and Capital investmentsOpen

Alberta, Canada

PrairiesCan — Aerospace Regional Recovery Initiative

Funding to recover Canada's aerospace sector in the Prairie region

Eligible Funding

Up to 75% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Manufacturing
Professional, scientific and technical services

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONTECHNOLOGYENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATEINNOVATION

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Manufacturing Productivity Grant (AMPG)

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Manufacturing Productivity Grant (AMPG)

Funding for Alberta manufacturers to enhance productivity through technology adoption

Eligible Funding

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Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

All industries

Types of eligible projects

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)TECHNOLOGYDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Alberta, Canada

Access over 3000 different funding opportunities

Try the helloDarwin platform today and find programs that fit your needs

The helloDarwin application makes it easy to unlock grants so your business can grow faster—with less hassle and more impact.

Across the Canadian entrepreneurial landscape, one paradox persists: billions of dollars are available every year in public funding and government grants, yet a large percentage of those funds remain unclaimed. Why? Because accessing them feels like trying to crack a bureaucratic code written in a foreign language.

Public funding is real—but it hides behind administrative red tape, eligibility mazes, fluctuating deadlines, and cryptic forms. The result? Thousands of businesses miss out on critical financial support, not because they’re unworthy, but because the system wasn’t built for speed, clarity, or accessibility.

That’s the problem helloDarwin set out to solve with its grant platform—a tool designed not only to uncover hidden opportunities but to turn them into engines for business growth.

The Reality: Entrepreneurs Don’t Have Time to Chase 28 Government Websites

What the team at helloDarwin realized early on is this: business owners have no shortage of vision, ideas, or ambition. What they lack is time, administrative capacity, and a clear path to funding.

Rather than throwing another data-heavy directory into the mix, helloDarwin built a smart, intuitive interface, backed by a high-impact support system, designed to translate public funding into real action.

No guesswork. No 100-page PDFs. No copy-pasting into spreadsheets at 10 p.m. Just a straight line from idea to opportunity—and from opportunity to execution.

Not a Promise. A Proven Process.

While it may look like a platform, helloDarwin is better described as a methodology. One that has been purpose-built for overworked founders, lean teams, and agile businesses. It follows three clear steps:

Explore — Use a dynamic tool to identify relevant programs based on your business profile, project goals, and sector.
Estimate — Get a personalized forecast of potential funding amounts.
Act — Access expert support to write, file, and manage your grant application all the way through approval.

What used to take companies three to six months (or was abandoned altogether) can now be launched in under a week. And unlike many do-it-yourself systems, helloDarwin’s method is reinforced by actual human support.

On the Ground: “We Thought It Wasn’t for Us”

Sophie, a co-founder of a sustainable design firm in Québec, had always assumed government grants were “for the big guys” or “tech companies with labs.” One afternoon, on a colleague’s recommendation, she logged into helloDarwin.

Within 15 minutes, she found she was eligible for:

80% funding for upskilling her team
Up to $50,000 for a digital process transformation
Export assistance for her eco-certified furniture line

With expert help from the platform’s network, two applications were submitted within six weeks. Three months later, the funds were flowing.

Her team kept working. She didn’t miss a single client meeting. The paperwork? Someone else handled it.

The Secret Weapon: Human Expertise + Automated Insight

The real strength of helloDarwin lies in the seamless handoff between technology and human expertise. Where most platforms offer tools and leave users to figure it out, helloDarwin provides real, qualified experts to walk alongside your business.

Once a relevant program is identified, users can activate support from:

Grant application specialists
Financial and tax consultants
Industry-specific advisors (tech, manufacturing, sustainability…)

These professionals know how to speak the language of funding agencies, avoid technical pitfalls, and build credible, compelling submissions that align with government priorities.

Grants as Strategy, Not Serendipity

One of the key cultural shifts that helloDarwin enables is this: stop seeing grants as a bonus. Start using them as a core business strategy.

By integrating public funding into your business roadmap, you can plan projects more effectively, make smarter investments, and time your initiatives with upcoming funding windows.

Take, for instance, a company that plans to hire three engineers in Q2 of next year. With helloDarwin, they can:

See which programs will be active
Prepare their documentation in advance
Maximize their reimbursement rate (often 50%–75%)
Accelerate hiring without overextending cash flow

This is not opportunism. It’s strategic resource allocation—backed by public funding that already exists.

A Platform That Evolves With You

Grants are seasonal. Programs change. Budgets close. That’s why a truly valuable tool must be living, adaptive, and proactive.

helloDarwin’s grant platform updates in real time. Its users receive alerts when:

A new program launches in their region or sector
Their business becomes eligible for something previously unavailable
A deadline is approaching for a high-value grant

It becomes a funding radar, embedded in your growth planning—not a tool you only use in times of desperation.

Who Is It For?

The answer is simple: any business with a project to fund. That includes:

Startups in early or late stages
SMEs looking to modernize
Manufacturers planning to automate
Creative firms digitizing their services
Exporters preparing to go global
Green innovators solving environmental challenges

Whether you're running a two-person creative agency or a 50-person industrial operation, there are grants for you. The only thing missing is a way to find them—and a partner to help unlock them.

Building an Ecosystem, Not Just a Platform

helloDarwin doesn’t work in isolation. It collaborates with:

Local economic development organizations
Industry associations and chambers of commerce
Banks and financial institutions
Professional service firms and consultants

This ecosystem allows the platform to not only recommend funding, but also connect users with vetted experts and service providers who can execute the projects being funded.

Need help building your e-commerce site, launching your ESG strategy, or hiring an export advisor? helloDarwin connects the dots—from funding to fulfillment.

Three Common Mistakes That helloDarwin Helps You Avoid

Waiting Too Long Many businesses defer their plans because they believe it’s “not the right time.” In reality, most grants have narrow windows. Wait too long, and the funding is gone.
Assuming You’re Not Eligible Public funding isn’t just for deep-tech startups or cleantech firms. It supports marketing, recruitment, training, IT upgrades, and much more.
DIY Grant Applications Too many companies go it alone. But one wrong number, one missed document, or one misinterpreted eligibility clause can ruin your chances.

helloDarwin addresses all three by offering structure, automation, and expert support from the start.

A Cultural Shift in How Businesses See Funding

The deeper mission of helloDarwin isn’t just technological—it’s cultural.

It’s about creating a new reflex in business planning: "We have a project. Let’s see what support exists for it." It’s about empowering even the smallest businesses to dream bigger, knowing that capital is accessible, and the roadmap to get it is clear.

A company that integrates grants into its financial strategy can:

Innovate without draining its runway
Recruit more confidently
Accelerate product launches
De-risk export strategies
Improve retention through training and benefits

Grants don’t just lower costs. They unlock momentum.

Grant and FundingClosed

Alberta, Canada

STIP — Community Airport Program

Maintains community airports for safety, development, and aviation operations

Eligible Funding

Up to 75% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Transportation and warehousing

Types of eligible projects

Alberta, Canada

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta, Canada

Alberta — Value-Added Program

Alberta supports growth in value-added food sectors

Eligible Funding

From $50,000 to $250,000
Up to 25% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONINNOVATION

Alberta, Canada

Accelerating Innovations into CarE (AICE) – Market Access

Grant and FundingClosed

Alberta, Canada

Accelerating Innovations into CarE (AICE) – Market Access

Funding for Alberta health tech market access

Eligible Funding

maxCount2
Up to 75% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Health care and social assistance

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONTECHNOLOGYINNOVATION

Alberta, Canada

Grant and FundingOpen

Calgary, Alberta

Carbon Capture Kickstart

Money to accelerate carbon capture projects in Alberta

Eligible Funding

maxCount2
Up to 10% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
Utilities
Manufacturing
Public administration

Types of eligible projects

TECHNOLOGYENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATECONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION INNOVATION

Calgary, Alberta

Renewable and Alternative Energy Program

Grant and FundingLoans and Capital investmentsOpen

Alberta, Canada

Renewable and Alternative Energy Program

Invests in clean technologies for Alberta's low-carbon future

Eligible Funding

No Condition

Eligible Industries

Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
Utilities
Construction
Professional, scientific and technical services

Types of eligible projects

TECHNOLOGYENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATEINNOVATION

Alberta, Canada

Find tailored funding for your business

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Look through over 3000 grants, tax credits, loans and more financial aid on the helloDarwin application.

Imagine this: a fast-growing technology startup in Montreal is ready to expand internationally. They’ve built a solid team, developed an innovative SaaS product, and attracted their first round of investors. But as they prepare to hire new talent and scale operations abroad, they face a familiar roadblock—budget constraints. What they don’t realize is that there are government grants that could cover up to 75% of their next hire's salary and fund a good portion of their export marketing campaign. The only problem? They don’t know these programs exist, and even if they did, they wouldn’t know where to start.

This is exactly the problem helloDarwin set out to solve.

In Canada, there are thousands of grant programs available to support business development, innovation, sustainability, digitalization, and more. Yet navigating this ecosystem is like walking through a maze: confusing, technical, time-consuming, and—more often than not—discouraging. The result? Countless companies leave money on the table every year.

helloDarwin’s grant platform is flipping the script by turning complexity into clarity and making funding a strategic advantage for Canadian businesses of all sizes.

The Vision: A Smarter Way to Fund Business Growth

At its core, helloDarwin’s grant platform is built on a simple but powerful idea: funding should empower businesses, not overwhelm them.

Rather than forcing companies to research, interpret, and apply for grants on their own, helloDarwin offers an integrated digital solution that streamlines the entire process—from discovery to application, and even post-approval support.

This vision is rooted in the company’s broader mission: helping Canadian businesses thrive through smart connections. While helloDarwin originally made its name as a B2B matchmaking platform between businesses and service providers, its grant platform marks a bold and logical evolution: solving a systemic challenge with scalable impact.

Step 1: Discovery Made Easy

The first hurdle most companies face with grants is simply knowing what’s out there. With over 3,000 active programs available from federal, provincial, and municipal governments—not to mention sector-specific or innovation-focused initiatives—most businesses don’t have the time or resources to sort through the noise.

That’s where helloDarwin’s discovery engine comes in.

By inputting basic information—such as location, industry, company size, and project goals—users are instantly matched with relevant programs tailored to their needs. The platform’s smart algorithms cross-reference eligibility criteria with real-time data, surfacing only the most promising opportunities.

This eliminates guesswork and opens doors to programs that many companies never knew they were eligible for. A food processor in rural Ontario might find a grant for green packaging innovation. A Vancouver-based marketing agency may qualify for wage subsidies for creative hires. A manufacturing company in Halifax could discover federal funds for equipment modernization.

Step 2: Clear Guidance and Next Steps

Finding a grant is just the beginning. The real challenge begins when companies try to translate program guidelines into action. What are the actual funding limits? How are expenses defined? What paperwork is required? How long does approval take? What’s reimbursed, and what’s not?

helloDarwin’s platform demystifies these questions by offering clear, step-by-step breakdowns of each program: key dates, financial caps, co-funding ratios, admissible costs, and how to prepare a strong application. This reduces friction and helps companies build a confident, executable plan.

Step 3: Human Expertise When It Matters Most

Even the best-designed digital tools have their limits. That’s why helloDarwin complements its technology with real human expertise—grant advisors, funding strategists, and technical writers who know the process inside out.

For businesses that want to maximize their chances of approval, these experts step in to:

Review and validate eligibility
Write or revise grant applications
Build strong business cases aligned with funding priorities
Ensure deadlines are met
Coordinate post-funding reporting

This hybrid model—automation plus consultation—ensures that users get the best of both worlds. It’s fast and accessible for simple cases, and strategic and personalized for more complex projects.

And because helloDarwin is deeply embedded in the business services ecosystem, its advisors also help connect users with certified service providers—consultants, developers, training firms—who can execute the funded work.

Built for Real Business Use Cases

One of the most compelling aspects of the helloDarwin platform is its adaptability to real-life business scenarios. Here are just a few examples of how companies use the platform:

1. The AI Startup Expanding to Europe

A Montreal-based AI startup wants to open a sales office in Germany. With helloDarwin, they discover a combination of export development grants, translation subsidies, and hiring incentives that reduce their international expansion costs by 60%. With grant experts supporting their application, they secure the funds within two months and focus on entering the new market with confidence.

2. The Manufacturing Company Going Green

A mid-sized manufacturer in Ontario needs to modernize its equipment to reduce its carbon footprint. Using helloDarwin’s platform, they match with four green innovation programs that together cover 70% of the investment. The platform connects them with a sustainability consultant and a grant writer—both familiar with the funders' expectations.

3. The Agency Hiring Young Talent

A Toronto-based creative agency wants to hire two recent graduates but fears they can’t afford the full salaries. With helloDarwin’s help, they discover wage subsidy programs for youth employment. The grants cover 80% of the salary for the first six months, allowing them to hire sooner and accelerate delivery.

A Platform That Grows With You

helloDarwin’s platform isn’t just for one-time projects—it’s designed to become a strategic companion as businesses evolve. As companies grow, pivot, or explore new markets, the platform adapts, updating its recommendations and surfacing new opportunities.

Users can track application statuses, upload documents, and collaborate with consultants directly through the platform. They can also explore industry trends, funding cycles, and newly launched programs relevant to their sector.

It’s more than a transactional tool—it’s a business intelligence asset that supports growth over the long term.

Why It Works: Trust, Transparency, and Efficiency

Three values underpin the success of helloDarwin’s grant platform:

Trust Businesses know they are getting objective, vetted information—not biased promotions or limited program listings. The platform operates independently of government agencies and focuses on delivering value to its users first.
Transparency All fees (where applicable) and engagement terms are clear. Grant estimates are realistic, based on program rules, and users are guided toward opportunities that genuinely match their profiles.
Efficiency In a world where time is money, the platform reduces the time spent searching, guessing, and redoing failed submissions. From onboarding to approval, every step is optimized for speed and simplicity.

Making Grants a Growth Habit

Perhaps the greatest long-term value of helloDarwin’s platform is cultural. It helps businesses shift from viewing grants as a bonus—or a last resort—to seeing them as a routine part of their funding strategy.

This change in mindset has ripple effects. Companies that consistently use grants can:

Experiment with innovative ideas without bearing all the risk
Hire sooner, train better, and retain more talent
Invest in technology and sustainability with confidence
Build resilience against market shocks or supply chain disruptions
Gain recognition and trust from investors, clients, and government partners

Grants become not just about reducing costs, but about unlocking potential.

Who Is It For?

The helloDarwin grant platform is purpose-built for:

Startups exploring early-stage growth and hiring
SMEs seeking to modernize or expand internationally
Manufacturers aiming to automate or go green
Professional service firms investing in tools, marketing, or skills
Nonprofits and social enterprises scaling their impact

It’s ideal for companies with lean teams, limited admin bandwidth, and high-impact ideas that need a push to launch.

A New Standard for Funding Access

helloDarwin’s platform doesn’t just make it easier to access grants—it raises the bar for what businesses should expect from the process. No more fragmented research, unreadable PDF guides, or rushed last-minute applications. Instead, it offers a guided, intelligent, and empowering experience that brings grants into the heart of business planning.

In doing so, it supports a more dynamic, resilient, and forward-looking Canadian economy—one company at a time.

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta, Canada

Accelerate Fund

Early investment and coaching for Alberta startups

Eligible Funding

maxCount2

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing
Information and cultural industries
Professional, scientific and technical services

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONTECHNOLOGYINNOVATION

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Innovates — Land and Biodiversity Program

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Innovates — Land and Biodiversity Program

Leverage the Land and Biodiversity Program to drive sustainable practices in Alberta's natural resource development and enhance biodiversity.

Eligible Funding

maxCount2
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
Utilities
Professional, scientific and technical services

Types of eligible projects

ENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATE

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Media Fund — Project Script Development Grant

Grant and FundingClosed

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Media Fund — Project Script Development Grant

Grant for Alberta film script development

Eligible Funding

maxCount2

Eligible Industries

Information and cultural industries

Types of eligible projects

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Alberta, Canada

Grant and FundingClosed

Alberta, Canada

Energy Savings for Business Program

Funding for Alberta SMEs to improve efficiency

Eligible Funding

From $500 to $250,000
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Utilities
Manufacturing
Retail trade

Types of eligible projects

ENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATE

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Innovates — Product Demonstration Program

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Innovates — Product Demonstration Program

Voucher for advanced stage development in Alberta

Eligible Funding

maxCount2
Up to 75% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Professional, scientific and technical services

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATION

Alberta, Canada

Discover how much grant funding is available for your business

Subsidize your projects with government financial aid

Use our free grant estimator to quickly identify the available grant amounts for which your company may be eligible.

Unlock Your Business’s Full Potential with Government Grants and Financial Aid

Discover How Much Grant Funding Your Business Can Access

Innovation and R&D grants for companies developing new products, services, or technologies.
Export and international expansion subsidies to help businesses enter new markets.
Workforce development funding for training, hiring, and upskilling employees.
Green energy and sustainability grants for eco-friendly initiatives and energy-efficient projects.
Startup and entrepreneur support programs for new businesses seeking capital and resources.

Maximize Your Business Growth with Non-Repayable Financial Assistance

Take Advantage of Government Funding Opportunities Today

Alberta Innovates — Commercialization Associates Program

Grant and FundingClosed

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Innovates — Commercialization Associates Program

Wage subsidy for commercialization associate's salary in Alberta

Eligible Funding

maxCount2
Up to 75% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Professional, scientific and technical services

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATION

Alberta, Canada

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta, Canada

Technology Funding

Money for innovative technology projects

Eligible Funding

No Condition

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
Utilities
Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

TECHNOLOGYENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATE

Alberta, Canada

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta, Canada

Active Communities Initiative

Supports developing and improving public community sport and recreation facilities

Eligible Funding

From $50,000 to $1,500,000
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Arts, entertainment and recreation

Types of eligible projects

Alberta, Canada

Grant and FundingClosed

Alberta, Canada

SSRIA – Innovation Fund

Accelerate low-carbon solutions in building construction and operations through substantial funding and industry collaboration

Eligible Funding

maxCount2
Up to 70% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Construction

Types of eligible projects

TECHNOLOGYENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATECONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION INNOVATION

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Innovates — R&D Associates Program

Grant and FundingWage Subsidies And InternsOpen

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Innovates — R&D Associates Program

Wage subsidy for an R&D associate in Alberta

Eligible Funding

maxCount2
Up to 25% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Information and cultural industries
Professional, scientific and technical services

Types of eligible projects

TECHNOLOGYINNOVATION

Alberta, Canada

Tired of scrolling through all these programs?

Filter funding opportunities relevant for your company on the helloDarwin platform

Sort over 3,000 business funds by your industry, projects and location with helloDarwin's free app.

A Platform Designed for Modern Business Needs

A Vast and Continuously Updated Grant Database

Personalized and Smart Grant Matching

Full-Service Expert Support

Diverse Project Categories and Funding Options

Popular funding categories include:

Digital Transformation: software, cybersecurity, automation, AI
Human Resources: hiring graduates, professional training, retention
Export & Market Development: trade missions, translation, digital campaigns
Sustainability: energy efficiency, waste management, eco-certification
R&D & Innovation: product development, process improvement, prototyping
Infrastructure & Capital Assets: renovations, equipment purchases, workspace upgrades

Many programs offer reimbursement rates ranging from 25% to over 90% of eligible costs, and some can be combined for even greater impact.

Direct Impact on Business Performance

A Perfect Balance of Technology and Human Support

Strengthening the Canadian Business Ecosystem

This dynamic ecosystem not only improves outcomes for funded initiatives but also contributes to a more connected and supportive business community.

A Simple and Accessible Process

From Idea to Execution: Enabling Growth

Alberta Innovates — Strategic Networking and Development Program

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Innovates — Strategic Networking and Development Program

Funds Alberta tech-events up to $25,000 for innovation

Eligible Funding

maxCount2

Eligible Industries

Professional, scientific and technical services

Types of eligible projects

TECHNOLOGY

Alberta, Canada

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta, Canada

Lab Services Incentive Program (LSIP)

Alberta's pilot program enhancing lab access for tech developers

Eligible Funding

maxCount2
Up to 60% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
Utilities
Professional, scientific and technical services
Educational services

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONTECHNOLOGYENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATEINNOVATION

Alberta, Canada

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta, Canada

AFA — Artist Manager Program Funding

Funding for Alberta musicians' professional development at CMI

Eligible Funding

maxCount2
Up to 100% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Arts, entertainment and recreation

Types of eligible projects

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Innovates — International Technology Partnership Program

Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingOpen

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Innovates — International Technology Partnership Program

Support to de-risk the commercialization of innovative technology in Alberta

Eligible Funding

maxCount2
Up to 100% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Professional, scientific and technical services

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONTECHNOLOGY

Alberta, Canada

Accelerating Innovations into CarE (AICE) – Concepts

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta, Canada

Accelerating Innovations into CarE (AICE) – Concepts

Accelerates Alberta health innovation with digital solutions

Eligible Funding

maxCount2

Eligible Industries

Health care and social assistance

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONTECHNOLOGYINNOVATIONDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Alberta, Canada

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Export Expansion Program (AEEP)

Funding for Alberta exporters attending international trade events

Eligible Funding

Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

All industries

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Innovates — Digital Innovation in Clean Energy (DICE)

Grant and FundingClosed

Alberta, Canada

Alberta Innovates — Digital Innovation in Clean Energy (DICE)

Accelerate digital innovation to drive job creation, reduce emissions, and enhance energy efficiency

Eligible Funding

maxCount2
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction

Types of eligible projects

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)TECHNOLOGYENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATEINNOVATIONDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Alberta, Canada

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta, Canada

Big Future Innovation Grant

Alberta innovation grants for eligible small businesses

Eligible Funding

maxCount2

Eligible Industries

All industries

Types of eligible projects

INNOVATION

Alberta, Canada

What is the experience of businesses in Alberta with financing services?

Common Questions about SMB Financning

How can startup businesses in Alberta get a loan?

Startup businesses in Alberta can get a loan by presenting a solid business plan, demonstrating growth potential, and maintaining responsible financial management. They can approach institutions like the BDC, credit unions, or alternative lenders offering products specifically for startups. It’s also helpful to seek support from entrepreneurial support organizations to maximize the chances of obtaining financing.