Closed
Alberta Self-Employment Program
Self-employment training for Albertans
Last Update: March 4, 2026
Funding available
Varies by project
Timeline
- Receipt of requests is now closed
Location
Alberta, Canada
Overview
Self-employment training that offers unemployed individuals formal instruction, business plan development, one-to-one business counselling, coaching, guidance and follow-up during business plan implementation.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Start a business
- Launch or market a product/service
Eligible Funding
- Varies by project
Timeline
- Receipt of requests is now closed
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Alberta
Legal structures
- Sole proprietorship
- For-profit business
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Newcomers to Canada
- Canadians
- Startups
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Development and launch of a new business by unemployed or under-employed individuals.
- Creation of a comprehensive business plan with structured support and guidance.
- Participation in formal training focused on developing and operating a business.
- Implementation of a business strategy with ongoing counselling and mentorship.
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- New businesses established by eligible individuals
- Existing businesses being taken over by eligible individuals (where they did not have prior ownership)
Eligible expenses
- Formal training and learning materials for starting and operating a business.
- Business plan development support, including market research, marketing plans, operational details, and financial planning.
- One-to-one business counselling, coaching, and guidance related to capital and business implementation needs.
Eligible geographic areas
- Alberta
- City of Lloydminster (Alberta address required for duration of training)
Selection criteria
- Viability of the business concept, as determined through a business viability assessment.
- Participant's strategic analysis of the industry and alignment with current and future labour market trends.
- Strengths and weaknesses of the business and potential plans of action for mitigating weaknesses.
- Estimates of required capital for start-up, operation, and business growth.
- Clear, reasonable timelines to accomplish pre-set goals and to measure progress.
How to apply
1
Review Eligibility
Check the to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria.
2
Enrolment Preparation
- Review the .
- Determine the organization offering Self-Employment Program training near you.
3
Connect with Training Providers
- Contact a local training provider offering this program to discuss your eligibility.
- Consider setting up an appointment for any required assessments or consultations.
4
Complete Assessments
Undergo Employability Assessment to evaluate if the Self-Employment Program is suited for your business and employment goals.
5
Apply for the Program
Once your eligibility is confirmed, apply for the Self-Employment Program through the provider.
Additional information
- All program participants are expected to work full-time (minimum 30 hours per week) on their business after completing the program.
- Program providers are required to conduct ongoing support and mentoring, including a follow-up approximately 90 days after program completion.
- Instructor-led training and one-to-one business counselling are tailored and may be delivered in person, through workshops, or via synchronous online learning.
- Program guidelines and requirements are subject to updates by Alberta Labour and Immigration.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Alberta Self-Employment Program Program
What is the Alberta Self-Employment Program?
Self-employment training that offers unemployed individuals formal instruction, business plan development, one-to-one business counselling, coaching, guidance and follow-up during business plan implementation.
Who is eligible for the Alberta Self-Employment Program program?
To be eligible for the Alberta Self-Employment Program program, you must:
The business must be located and operational in Alberta.
The applicant must own a minimum of 51% of the proposed business.
The business must comply with all applicable legislation and regulations.
What expenses are eligible under Alberta Self-Employment Program?
Development and launch of a new business by unemployed or under-employed individuals.
Creation of a comprehensive business plan with structured support and guidance.
Participation in formal training focused on developing and operating a business.
Implementation of a business strategy with ongoing counselling and mentorship.
Where is the Alberta Self-Employment Program available?
The Alberta Self-Employment Program program is available the province of Alberta.
Is the Alberta Self-Employment Program a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Alberta Self-Employment Program is a Grant and Funding
Who are the financial supporters of the Alberta Self-Employment Program?
Alberta Self-Employment Program is funded by Government of Alberta, Ministry of Labour and Immigration (AB)