The provincial government announced Thursday that millions would be provided to the Enhanced Innovation Voucher and Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Support program to help technology-based businesses.
Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Deron Bilous, made the announcement at NAIT in Edmonton Thursday morning – and said the additional $5 million would help technology-based businesses get access to services and expertise needed to get ideas and products to market.
“Our government is committed to making Alberta the best place in Canada to start a new business, build on innovation and get a new idea off the ground,” Bilous said in a statement. “This investment comes at the right time for Alberta’s high-tech researchers and entrepreneurs as we work together to build a more divers and resilient economy.”
The support program helps businesses obtain services including marketing, planning, and product development. The program is also expected to double the number of technology development advisors to help with product development and business expertise.
The funding was included in Budget 2015; the program is delivered by Alberta Innovates – Technology Futures (AITF).
The province said its estimated programs through AITF have led to the creation of 555 new jobs in Alberta in 2014-2015.
More information on the program can be found online.
