Closed
Source verified July 23, 2026
Emerging Innovators Challenge
SME-led clean technology funding in Alberta
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Funding available
$ 250,000 - $ 5,000,000
Deadline
Unspecified
Location
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Overview
This program provides up to CAD 5 million per project, with total funding of up to CAD 40 million. It supports SME-led field trials, demonstrations, and first-of-kind implementations that reduce emissions in Alberta.
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At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase performance through digital transformation
- Develop strategic partnerships
- Implement environmental initiatives
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 5,000,000 $
- Minimum amount : 250,000 $
- Up to 50% of project cost
Funds Providers
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Calgary
- Alberta
Legal structures
- Non-profit
- Sole proprietorship
- Public or Parapublic institution
- For-profit business
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- 499 employees maximum
Audience
- Startups
Non-profit candidates
Sector of operation
- Research
- Environment
- Economic, Social and Community Development
Target groups
- Indigenous peoples
- Rural / Remote communities
- Business owners / entrepreneurs
Revenue structures
- All structures
Scope
- Provincial
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Availability timeline
2024
Periods: 1
Activities funded
- Technology scale-up, pilot demonstration, and first-of-kind implementation
- Field testing and operational piloting of novel technology
- Commercial demonstration of new emissions-reduction solutions
- First-of-kind deployment of technology in Alberta
Documents Needed
- Expression of Interest document
- Proof of legal ownership and corporate structure
- Letters of support, if available
- Online project information in ERIMS
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Small and medium-sized enterprises
- Indigenous-owned enterprises
- Not-for-profit organizations
Who is not eligible
- Large corporations
- Government labs
- Municipalities
- Post-secondary and research organizations
- Commercialization accelerators and incubators
Eligible expenses
- Project labour and employee benefits
- Equipment and capital assets
- Materials, supplies, and consumables
- Consulting and subcontractor costs
- Eligible travel, overhead, and GHG verification costs
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Standalone pre-construction studies such as FEED or detailed engineering
- Costs incurred before the FPP submission deadline
- Product marketing, patenting, licensing, and copyright protection
- Land purchase or lease costs
- GST/PST and regulatory approval costs
Eligible geographic areas
- Alberta
Selection criteria
- Innovation opportunity, 20%
- Implementation plan, 20%
- GHG benefits, 30%
- Non-GHG benefits, 15%
- Market and value proposition, 15%
How to apply
- Step 1: Create an ERIMS account
- Register on the ERA online portal.
- Access the EOI template in ERIMS.
- Step 2: Prepare the submission
- Complete the required EOI document.
- Compile proof of legal ownership and any letters of support.
- Enter the required online project information.
- Step 3: Submit online
- Upload all required content in ERIMS.
- Finalize the submission through the online system.
- Submit before the deadline.
- Step 4: Await confirmation and review
- Check for the automated receipt email.
- Monitor email for ERA’s decision and next-step instructions.
Processing and Agreement
- EOIs are reviewed and shortlisted by ERA.
- Selected applicants are invited to submit a Full Project Proposal.
- Successful applicants must sign a Contribution Agreement before funding is released.
- Funding is then paid on a milestone completion basis.
- Applicants are notified of the decision by email.
Additional information
- Applicants may submit multiple EOIs.
- ERA may share submissions with trusted funding partners, with applicant permission.
- Successful applicants may receive a formal project advisor at the FPP stage.
- Funded projects must provide public reporting of outcomes and learnings.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Emerging Innovators Challenge Program
What is the Emerging Innovators Challenge?
This program provides up to CAD 5 million per project, with total funding of up to CAD 40 million. It supports SME-led field trials, demonstrations, and first-of-kind implementations that reduce emissions in Alberta.
How much funding can be received?
Emerging Innovators Challenge Funds up to 50% of admissible expenses, capped at $5,000,000 per project.
Who is eligible for the Emerging Innovators Challenge program?
To be eligible for the Emerging Innovators Challenge program, you must:
Lead applicant must be an SME.
Project must be in Alberta.
Project must involve pilot or demonstration work.
What expenses are eligible under Emerging Innovators Challenge?
Technology scale-up, pilot demonstration, and first-of-kind implementation
Field testing and operational piloting of novel technology
Commercial demonstration of new emissions-reduction solutions
First-of-kind deployment of technology in Alberta
Who can I contact for more information about the Emerging Innovators Challenge?
You can contact Government of Alberta by email at applications@eralberta.ca or by phone at 780.417.1920.
Where is the Emerging Innovators Challenge available?
The Emerging Innovators Challenge program is available the province of Alberta.
Is the Emerging Innovators Challenge a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Emerging Innovators Challenge is a Partnering and Collaboration