Digital Transformation Grants in Alberta: A Comprehensive Guide

Q: Are there limits on the number of grants a business can receive under the program?

Yes, there are typically limits on the number of grants a business can receive under the Digital Transformation Grant program. This is designed to ensure that funding is distributed fairly among eligible businesses and to maximize the overall impact of the program. Businesses should be aware of these limits when planning their applications and project funding strategies.

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, businesses are increasingly recognizing the importance of adopting new technologies and processes to remain competitive. In Alberta, digital transformation grants play a pivotal role in facilitating this transition for local businesses. This article will explore the various digital transformation programs available in Alberta, including grant opportunities, the application process, and focus areas for funding.

Overview of Digital Transformation Programs in Alberta

Alberta offers a range of digital transformation programs designed to support businesses in their technological adoption and innovation efforts. These grants provide financial assistance to help organizations integrate new technologies into their operations, thus enhancing productivity and driving growth.

Grant Opportunities for Businesses in Alberta

There are numerous grant opportunities available for businesses in Alberta looking to undertake digital transformation initiatives. These grants can cover various costs associated with implementing new technologies and processes.

Eligible Financing Type Grants

Eligible financing type grants focus on specific costs that businesses may incur during their digital transformation journey. This can include funding for software purchases, hardware upgrades, training programs, and other related expenses. Understanding the types of financing grants available is essential for businesses to maximize their funding potential.

Funding Grants for Businesses

Funding grants for businesses are crucial in helping organizations access the capital needed to invest in technology. These grants can be used for a wide range of projects, from developing new software solutions to upgrading existing systems. By securing funding grants, businesses can alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with technological upgrades.

Project Cost Percent Grants

Project cost percent grants are designed to cover a percentage of the total costs associated with digital transformation projects. This means that businesses can receive financial assistance to help offset the expenses of their initiatives. Typically, these grants can cover anywhere from 25% to 75% of project costs, depending on the specific program and the business's eligibility.

Support for Canadian Businesses in Alberta

Alberta’s digital transformation grants are part of a broader initiative to support Canadian businesses in their growth and innovation efforts. These programs aim to enhance the competitiveness of local companies while fostering economic development in the region.

Transformation Support for Businesses

Transformation support for businesses

encompasses a variety of services and resources aimed at facilitating digital adoption. This can include access to training programs, consulting services, and mentorship opportunities that guide businesses through the digital transformation process.

Max Count Grants

Max count grants refer to the limit on the number of grants a business can apply for within a specific period. This ensures that funding is distributed fairly among eligible businesses and allows for a broader impact on the local economy. It is essential for businesses to be aware of these limits when planning their grant applications.

Application Process for Digital Transformation Grants

The application process for digital transformation grants can vary based on the specific program and the organization providing the funding. However, there are common steps that businesses should follow to enhance their chances of success.

Eligibility Criteria for Digital Transformation Programs

Understanding the eligibility criteria for digital transformation programs is crucial for businesses seeking funding.

Eligible Financing Type Grants

To qualify for eligible financing type grants, businesses must demonstrate that their proposed projects align with the objectives of the grant program. This may include providing details about how the funds will be used and the anticipated impact on the business's operations.

Eligible Funding Grants

For funding grants, businesses must also meet specific requirements set forth by the granting organization. This can include criteria related to company size, industry sector, and the intended outcomes of the project. Thorough research and preparation are necessary to ensure compliance with these eligibility requirements.

Project Cost Percentage and Grant Disbursement

Understanding how project cost percentages and grant disbursement work is essential for businesses seeking funding.

Digital Transformation Funding Process

The digital transformation funding process typically involves submitting an application that outlines the proposed project, its objectives, and the estimated costs. Once the application is submitted, it will be reviewed by the granting organization, which will assess the project’s viability and alignment with funding criteria.

Max Count of Grants Allocation

The allocation of grants is usually based on the maximum count of grants per organization. Businesses should be mindful of how many grants they have previously applied for and the status of those applications. Keeping track of grant applications can help businesses manage their funding strategy more effectively.

Focus Areas for Digital Transformation Grants in Alberta

Digital transformation grants in Alberta focus on several key areas to maximize their impact and support businesses in their technology adoption efforts.

Business and Technology Adoption Plans

One of the primary focus areas for digital transformation grants is the development of business and technology adoption plans.

Grants for Technical Business Adoption

Grants specifically aimed at technical business adoption support organizations in integrating new technologies into their operations. These grants can cover expenses related to software implementation, system upgrades, and training staff to use new tools effectively.

Small Business Support for Tech Adoption

Small businesses often face unique challenges when adopting new technologies. Grants that focus on small business support aim to provide financial assistance tailored to the needs of smaller enterprises, ensuring they have the resources necessary to compete in a digital marketplace.

Scientific and Technical Support Services for Businesses

In addition to grants for technology adoption, Alberta's digital transformation programs also emphasize scientific and technical support services.

Scientific Services Grants

Scientific services grants provide funding for projects that leverage research and development to drive innovation. These grants can support businesses in various sectors, including healthcare, manufacturing, and information technology, by facilitating collaboration with research institutions.

Technical Support for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses

Technical support services are crucial for helping small and medium-sized businesses navigate the complexities of digital transformation. Grants that focus on technical support can cover costs associated with hiring consultants, attending workshops, and accessing specialized training programs.

Economy Sustainability Through Technical Services

Supporting the economy's sustainability through technical services is a core goal of Alberta's digital transformation grants. By enabling businesses to adopt innovative practices and technologies, these programs contribute to long-term economic growth and resilience.

18 opportunities available

Grant and FundingClosed

Accelerating Innovations into CarE (AICE) – Validate

Alberta Innovates

Supports Alberta SMEs to validate health tech innovations

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 300,000 $
Up to 25% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Health care and social assistance

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONTECHNOLOGYINNOVATIONDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta Innovates — Summer Research Studentships

Alberta Innovates

Paid experiential learning for Alberta's undergraduate health students

Eligible Funding

From $50,000 to $1,900,000

Eligible Industries

Health care and social assistance

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONTECHNOLOGYINNOVATIONDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Grant and FundingClosed

Alberta Innovates — Digital Innovation in Clean Energy (DICE)

Alberta Innovates

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

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 250,000 $
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

Grant and FundingClosed

Digital Health Sandbox

Alberta Innovates

Accelerates digital health technology adoption in Alberta clinical settings

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 300,000 $

Eligible Industries

Professional, scientific and technical services
Educational services
Health care and social assistance
Public administration

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONTECHNOLOGYINNOVATIONDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Grant and FundingOpen

Enhanced Capacity Advancement Program (ECAP)

Government of Alberta

Supports Alberta non-profits in advancing sector-wide capacity building

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 150,000 $

Eligible Industries

Other services (except public administration)
Public administration

Types of eligible projects

HUMAN RESOURCESDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

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 Innovates — Health Innovations

Alberta Innovates

Funding for health solutions in Alberta

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 200,000 $
Up to 75% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Health care and social assistance

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)INNOVATIONDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Grant and FundingOpen

PrairiesCan — Regional Economic Growth through Innovation — Regional Innovation Ecosystems (RIE)

Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan)

Funding to support business growth in the Prairies

Eligible Funding

Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

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

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONTECHNOLOGYHUMAN RESOURCESINNOVATIONDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta Manufacturing Productivity Grant (AMPG)

Government of Alberta

Funding for Alberta manufacturers to enhance productivity through technology adoption

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 30,000 $
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

All industries

Types of eligible projects

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)TECHNOLOGYDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Grant and FundingClosed

Alberta Media Fund — Project Script Development Grant

Government of Alberta

Grant for Alberta film script development

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 55,000 $

Eligible Industries

Information and cultural industries

Types of eligible projects

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Grant and FundingOpen

Canada-Alberta Productivity Grant (CAPG)

Government of Alberta

Supports employer-led training to enhance workforce productivity skills

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 100,000 $
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

All industries

Types of eligible projects

TECHNOLOGYHUMAN RESOURCESDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Find tailored funding for your business

Discover more funding opportunities on the helloDarwin platform

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

Other Initiatives Program (OIP)

Government of Alberta

Supports urgent, community-focused projects benefiting the public interest

Eligible Funding

No Condition

Eligible Industries

Educational services
Health care and social assistance
Arts, entertainment and recreation
Other services (except public administration)

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)TECHNOLOGYENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATECONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION HUMAN RESOURCESBUSINESS BUYOUTINNOVATIONDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Expert AdviceClosed

Business Link — Digital Economy Program

Business Link

Digital transformation support for small businesses in Alberta

Eligible Funding

No Condition

Eligible Industries

All industries

Types of eligible projects

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Grant and FundingClosed

Accelerating Innovations into CarE (AICE) – Concepts

Alberta Innovates

Accelerates Alberta health innovation with digital solutions

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 600,000 $

Eligible Industries

Health care and social assistance

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONTECHNOLOGYINNOVATIONDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta Innovates — Alberta Digital Traction Program

Government of Alberta

Money for digital technologies and products

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 50,000 $
Up to 75% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Information and cultural industries

Types of eligible projects

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Grant and FundingOpen

Alberta Export Expansion Program (AEEP)

Government of Alberta

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

Expert AdviceOpen

Business Link — One-on-one advice

Government of Alberta

Expert advice to help your Alberta business

Eligible Funding

No Condition

Eligible Industries

All industries

Types of eligible projects

BUSINESS BUYOUTDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Grant and FundingClosed

Alberta Media Fund — Post-Production, Visual Effects and Digital Animation Grant

Government of Alberta

Grant for Alberta post-production labour costs

Eligible Funding

From $500 to $200,000
Up to 18% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Information and cultural industries

Types of eligible projects

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Grant and FundingClosed

Accelerating Innovations into CarE (AICE) – Tech for Healthy Aging

Alberta Innovates

Accelerates the commercialization of innovative technologies to enhance healthy aging

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 300,000 $
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Health care and social assistance

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONTECHNOLOGYDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Have any questions about digital transformation grants available in Alberta

Learn more about obtaining grants for digital transformation

What is the eligibility criteria for Digital Transformation Grants in Alberta?

To qualify for Digital Transformation Grants in Alberta, businesses must meet specific eligibility criteria, including being registered and operating within the province. Typically, applicants must demonstrate a clear plan for technology adoption that aligns with the objectives of the grant program. Additional criteria may include the size of the business (small or medium-sized), the potential for innovation, and the expected economic impact of the proposed project.

What types of technology adoption are supported by the Digital Transformation Grants?

The Digital Transformation Grants support various types of technology adoption, including software implementation, hardware upgrades, data analytics, automation tools, and cloud computing solutions. The focus is on technologies that can streamline operations, improve customer engagement, and foster innovation within the business. Eligible projects may also include the development of new digital products or services.

What are the maximum grant amounts available for tech adoption projects in Alberta?

The maximum grant amounts available for tech adoption projects in Alberta can vary depending on the specific program and the nature of the project. Typically, grants can cover a percentage of the project costs, with maximum amounts ranging from a few thousand dollars to several hundred thousand dollars. Businesses should consult the details of the grant program they are interested in to understand the specific funding limits.