Alberta Innovates — Land and Biodiversity Program

Eligibility for this grant is determined by specific requirements related to the applicant's profile and proposed activities.

• The applicant can be from among technology developers, industry, industrial associations, small and medium-sized enterprises, research and development (R&D) organizations, post-secondary institutions, municipalities, not-for-profit organizations, government research labs, or individuals.
• Applicants are not required to be based in Alberta but must demonstrate a clear value proposition for the province.
• Applicants must be legally able to execute the Investment Agreement.
• Projects must be advancing technology development within a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) range of 3-7.

Who is eligible?

This grant is open to a wide range of applicants aiming to develop sustainable practices in natural resource development and biodiversity in Alberta.

• Technology developers working on innovative environmental solutions.
• Industry players looking to reduce their environmental footprint.
• Industrial associations interested in sustainable practices.
• Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) advancing in technology readiness levels 3-7.
• Research and development organizations conducting environmental innovation related work.
• Post-secondary institutions focusing on environmental research and innovation.
• Municipalities aiming for sustainable development practices.
• Not-for-profit organizations engaged in environmental conservation.
• Government research labs facilitating biodiversity and sustainability.
• Individuals or sole proprietors innovating in environmental practices.

Eligible expenses

There are eligible expenses for this grant, which include costs directly attributable to the performance of the agreed-upon projects. These expenses must be critical to the project's execution as outlined in the application.

• Labour: Salary and benefits for individuals working specifically on the project
• Materials: Reasonable material costs
• Capital Assets & Software: Capital improvements, capital equipment, software or information databases
• Travel: Travel expenses including mileage, low economy airfare, meals, and accommodation for project purposes
• Sub-contractors: Services or products of another entity
• Other: Costs which Alberta Innovates pre-approves in writing as eligible

Eligible geographic areas

This grant does not restrict eligibility to specific geographical areas. Companies from any location can apply, provided they align with the program priorities and demonstrate benefits for Alberta.

• Open to all geographical areas worldwide as long as they provide clear value to Alberta.

The evaluation and selection of projects for this grant are based on specific criteria in three major categories that ensure alignment with the program’s objectives.

• Innovation: Assessment of the innovation and originality of the project proposal.
• Execution: Evaluation of the feasibility and clarity of the implementation plan.
• Impacts: Analysis of the alignment with the grant’s strategic goals and potential impact on the targeted environment or sector.

• Ensure biodiversity is maintained or enhanced in Alberta.
• Projects must show a clear value proposition for Alberta.
• Applicants must register on SmartSimple to apply.
• Alberta Innovates provides project management and funding based on milestone achievement.
• Projects funded up to $2 million, typically 25-50% of project costs.
• Engagement with Alberta’s post-secondary and research institutions is encouraged.
• Focus on economic, environmental, and GHG emission reduction impacts.
• Project proposals undergo a review process involving internal and external evaluators.
• Public reporting of final project outcomes is required, with confidentiality maintained.