Funding Programs for Alberta Businesses in 2026

Calgary businesses looking to invest in technology - whether that is ERP, ecommerce, digital operations, or export infrastructure - have several active government programs that can help offset the cost. Here are the most relevant ones as of 2026.

Note: The Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP) closed to new applications in February 2024. If you see other sites still listing it, the information is outdated. The programs below are currently active.

BDC (Business Development Bank of Canada)

BDC offers the most directly relevant financing for Calgary businesses investing in business software and technology.

Technology Equipment Loan

  • Finances the entire cost of technology purchases including ERP software, cloud computing, AI tools, business intelligence, and ecommerce platforms
  • Covers extras like shipping, installation, and training
  • Interest-only payments available for the first 24 months
  • Up to 8 years to repay
  • Eligible investments include ERP systems, collaboration tools, cybersecurity, and custom software

Technology Financing (up to $350,000)

  • Covers up to 100 percent of the cost of information and communications technology - hardware, software, and related consulting services
  • Flexible repayment terms
  • Business should have been generating revenue for 12 to 24 months

Data to AI Program

  • BDC’s recommended replacement for the closed CDAP program
  • Expert guidance and preferential rate financing for AI, automation, and cybersecurity adoption
  • Designed for businesses ready to move beyond basic digital adoption

General eligibility: Business must be registered in Canada, have recorded sales, and have personal and business credit in good standing. BDC interest rates typically range from prime + 2 percent to prime + 6 percent. As of early 2026, that translates to roughly 7.5 to 11.5 percent.

More information: bdc.ca/en/financing

Alberta Innovates

Alberta Innovates runs several programs relevant to technology adoption, particularly for businesses with an innovation or R&D component.

Voucher Program (up to $100,000)

  • Non-dilutive funding for Alberta-based tech SMEs to accelerate commercialization
  • Covers new product R&D, prototype development, product testing, patent development, and advanced market assessments
  • Requires a minimum 25 percent cash contribution from the applicant
  • Eligibility: For-profit SME with fewer than 500 employees and under $50M in annual revenue, incorporated in Alberta

R&D Associates Program (up to $105,000)

  • Covers up to 75 percent of the salary of a professional hired to work on proof of concepts, prototyping, or feasibility assessments
  • One-year project duration
  • Applications accepted on a continuous basis - no fixed deadline
  • Same size requirements as the Voucher Program

These programs are more R&D-focused than standard business software adoption. They work best for companies building proprietary technology or doing significant customization work, not for straightforward ERP implementations.

More information: albertainnovates.ca | Contact: intake@albertainnovates.ca

Calgary Economic Development

Calgary Economic Development provides resources for local businesses including advisory services, trade programs, and connections to the local technology ecosystem.

Trade Accelerator Program (TAP)

  • Helps Calgary businesses prepare for international expansion with expert mentorship, tailored export strategies, and market insights
  • Received a $2.8M boost from the Government of Alberta in 2026
  • Has supported over 550 Alberta-based companies since launching in 2018
  • Best suited for companies looking to expand beyond domestic markets

Levelling Up Program (New in 2026)

  • Designed for TAP alumni taking their exporting further
  • Includes sector-specific and market-specific trade programming
  • Focused on helping Alberta businesses navigate complex global trade dynamics

Talent Ready Program

  • Pilot initiative helping businesses access the talent they need to grow
  • Works through direct engagement to identify hiring needs and workforce gaps

More information: calgaryeconomicdevelopment.com

Export Development Canada (EDC)

If your Calgary business exports or is considering exporting, EDC has expanded its offerings significantly in 2026.

$5 Billion Trade Impact Program

  • Additional financial support for Canadian exporters and their suppliers to manage global economic uncertainty
  • Enhanced access to insurance, financing, and risk mitigation solutions
  • Available to businesses of all sizes - from SMEs to large enterprises
  • Designed to address challenges related to global market shifts and working capital needs

Export Guarantee Program

  • Helps Canadian exporters secure bank financing to expand internationally
  • Guarantee coverage up to US$25 million
  • Available to small and medium businesses with an export contract or firm order from a foreign buyer

More information: edc.ca | Contact: 1-800-229-0575

How to Get Started with These Programs

  1. Start with BDC if technology adoption is the goal. The Technology Equipment Loan is the most directly applicable program for Calgary businesses looking at ERP or business software. It covers the full cost including implementation consulting.

  2. Apply early. Many programs have limited funding. Do not wait until you have made your technology decision to start the application process.

  3. Get your paperwork in order. Most programs require financial statements, business plans, and documentation of your current technology state. Having these ready speeds up the process significantly.

  4. Talk to businesses that have used these programs. Calgary’s business community is well connected. Ask around at industry events or through Calgary Economic Development to find companies that have gone through the application process.

  5. Understand which programs stack. Alberta allows combining multiple programs - for example, an Alberta Innovates voucher alongside federal SR&ED tax credits. Ask each program administrator about compatibility with other funding sources.

  6. Keep the technology decision separate from the funding decision. Apply for funding based on business needs, not the other way around. The funding should support the plan - the plan should not be shaped by what a grant covers.

Additional Resources

This page was last updated March 2026. Program details and availability change frequently. Always verify current eligibility and terms directly with the program administrators.