This release was issued under a previous government.

The province has launched a new series of stakeholder consultations with small business owners throughout Alberta with the aim of launching a small business strategy.

Entrepreneurs and small business owners are encouraged to help shape Alberta’s new strategy for small business success by providing input online or attending a community session.

“Small business is the lifeblood of Alberta’s economy. These consultations are about listening and learning how we can assist and understand when government needs to get out of the way. What we hear will confirm whether we are on the right track and will help us shape a vibrant strategy in the new year. Alberta has the strongest small business community in the country. We are committed to working together to build on those strengths.”

Thomas A. Lukaszuk, Deputy Premier and Minister of Enterprise and Advanced Education

“We at the Calgary Chamber know that small businesses are a critical element of Alberta's economy and vitality, and entrepreneurship is a core part of Alberta's DNA. Recognizing small businesses can’t do it alone, I am thrilled that the Government of Alberta is working with them to identify factors that will drive their future health and success.”

Adam Legge, President and CEO, Calgary Chamber of Commerce

The engagement sessions will be led by Dave Quest, MLA for Strathcona-Sherwood Park and will be held over the next couple of months. The sessions will take place in Calgary, Edmonton, Fort McMurray, Grande Prairie, Medicine Hat, Lethbridge, Lloydminster and Red Deer.

Small businesses make up 95 per cent of all businesses in the province and the number of small businesses has grown at more than double the national rate over the past decade. Current information about the big economic impact of small business is available in the new edition of the Alberta Small Business Profile.

Related information

Attend an engagement session

Take the online survey