Thanks to Alberta’s highly productive economy, cutting red tape, and business-minded policies, Alberta has become the small business hub of Canada.

With strong, common-sense policies, Alberta is attracting more new business than ever before. Alberta saw an average of 1,945 more active businesses between January and July when compared with the same period last year. This 1.6 per cent increase far surpassed the Canadian average of 0.6 per cent. Alberta is the top destination for business innovation and creation, nationwide.

“Alberta is the economic engine of Canada and thanks to the strength of our business community, we are further diversifying our economy with strong, business-friendly policies that attract job-creating investment and sustain the Alberta Advantage that we are known for.”

Alberta’s active businesses numbers can be attributed to Alberta’s highly skilled and productive workforce, competitive business policies and low tax rates.

Making up 95 per cent of businesses in the province, Alberta’s small businesses employ almost 35 per cent of our private sector workforce and contribute 27 per cent of the province’s GDP.

"Small businesses are the heartbeat of Alberta, driving innovation and community spirit. They create jobs, support local economies and foster a sense of belonging. Investing in these enterprises is investing in a strong economic future for our province. We are proud to see such positive growth in our small business community in Q3."

Many sectors are leading the charge, with Alberta’s world-class tourism industry continuing its strong performance in 2024. Alberta saw a notable increase in the number of active businesses in tourism transportation, travel services, recreation and entertainment, and food and beverage services. In fact, Alberta’s overall tourism businesses increased by 3.2 per cent in the first seven months of 2024 – the second-highest increase in Canada.

“Alberta has the fastest-growing economy in the country right now, with more new businesses starting, and productivity levels significantly higher than the national average. Higher productivity means higher paycheques and better living standards for Albertans. Maintaining and increasing the focus on economic growth and productivity, as well as energizing our key industries, will be critical to ensuring a bright economic future for our province.”

Alberta’s government is taking action to make sure the province remains a place where small businesses can start up, grow and thrive.

Alberta remains the best place to live, work, do business, invest and raise a family. Alberta’s government has a plan for ensuring sustainable provincial growth, supported by productive industries, and an ever-expanding resource extraction sector.

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