Alberta Innovates — Alberta Scaleup and Growth Accelerators Program
Highlights
The Alberta Scaleup and Growth Accelerator Program is designed specifically for businesses like yours that are ready to scale and grow. This program offers end-to-end services to help you navigate the challenges of expanding your business, from developing your business plan to securing investment for global growth. By participating, you gain access to mentorship, investors, and other critical support through global accelerators, all at no cost to you.
Key Benefits:
- No fees or equity taken: Unlike other accelerators, this program is fully funded by a consortium of government partners, making it free for you.
- Global network: Connect with industry leaders, investors, and other startups to create valuable partnerships.
- Continued support: Join the Fellowship Alumni Network for ongoing mentorship and resources even after completing the program.
Applying to this program can significantly boost your business's growth potential, helping you overcome hurdles and achieve long-term success. The application process is straightforward, and with your business already qualifying, it's an opportunity you don't want to miss.
Financing Details
Type of Financing: Grant
Repayment Terms and Interest Rates:
- This program offers a grant, which means there is no repayment required.
- No interest rates apply as the funds do not need to be repaid.
Eligible Expenses:
- Funds can be used for:
- Business development activities
- Market expansion efforts
- Research and development (R&D)
- Technology upgrades
- Hiring skilled personnel
- Marketing and promotional activities
Ineligible Expenses:
- Funds cannot be used for:
- Debt repayment
- Real estate purchases
- Personal expenses
- Any non-business-related activities
Fees:
- There are no fees associated with applying for or receiving this grant.
Qualifications
- Must be a startup or small business.
- Business must be located in Alberta.
- Must be a tech company or have a focus on innovation.
- Must be looking to scale and grow.
Must be involved in one of the following sectors:
- Sector agnostic tech companies.
- Sustainable innovations.
- Digital health innovations.
- Social enterprises using artificial intelligence and machine learning.
- Early-stage tech startups.
- Agri-food companies.
Disqualifications:
- Businesses not located in Alberta.
- Businesses not focused on technology or innovation.
- Businesses not looking to scale and grow.
Description
This program is designed to help your business grow and succeed. You can access free mentorship, investment opportunities, and other support to make your business stable and self-sufficient.
The program offers end-to-end services. Whether you are just starting out or looking to expand globally, you will find the guidance and resources you need. This includes connections to global accelerators that specialize in different sectors, such as tech, agriculture, and community wellness.
No fees or equity are required to participate. This means you can take advantage of all the program's benefits without any financial burden. Additionally, after completing the program, you can join the Fellowship Alumni Network for ongoing support and connections. This network helps ensure your business continues to thrive long after the initial program ends.
By participating, you can overcome the challenges of scaling up, diversify your business, and contribute to Alberta’s economic growth.
Program Steps
Identify the Appropriate Accelerator: Choose the accelerator that best fits your business needs from the following options:
- Alberta Accelerator by 500: For sector-agnostic tech companies.
- Plug and Play Alberta: For tech companies focused on sustainable innovations, digital health innovations, and sector-agnostic innovation.
- Community Safety and Wellness Accelerator powered by Alchemist: For tech companies, including social enterprises, using AI and machine learning for social, community, or wellness benefits.
- Alberta Catalyzer: For early-stage tech startups preparing to advance to the scaleup/acceleration stage.
- SVG Thrive Canada Accelerator: For agri-food companies needing an end-to-end roadmap.
Prepare Required Documentation: Gather the necessary documents to support your application. These may include:
- Business Plan
- Financial Statements (Income Statement, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow Statement)
- Pitch Deck
- Market Analysis
- Details of your product or service
- Information on your team and their qualifications
- Any relevant patents or intellectual property details
Complete the Online Application: Visit the accelerator portal for your chosen program and fill out the online application form. Ensure all required fields are completed accurately.
Submit Supporting Documents: Upload the prepared documentation as part of your application. Make sure all files are correctly formatted and clearly labeled.
Review and Confirm Application: Double-check all information and documents before submitting your application. Confirm that everything is accurate and complete.
Submit the Application: Once you are satisfied with your application, submit it through the accelerator portal.
Follow Up: After submission, monitor your email for any communication from the accelerator program. Be prepared to provide additional information or clarification if requested.
Prepare for Interviews or Presentations: If your application is shortlisted, you may be invited to participate in interviews or presentations. Prepare thoroughly to present your business case effectively.
Await Decision: Wait for the final decision from the accelerator program. Successful applicants will be notified and provided with the next steps for participation in the program.