Overview
Level Up is an Alberta-wide trade program launched in 2026 to support growing businesses expanding into more markets. Through expert-led workshops, personalized coaching, and a blend of virtual and in-person programming, participants gain the tools, knowledge and confidence to scale domestically and internationally.
Level Up is designed for companies that are ready to grow across Canada and throughout the world. Apply to access hands-on strategic support, scale operations and expand into more markets.
The Government of Alberta and Calgary Economic Development are collaborating to develop and deliver the Level Up program for all of Alberta. Level Up also brings together experts from across government, industry and the private sector to provide companies with practical, well-rounded trade support all in one place.
The Government of Alberta is proud to be the founding anchor sponsor of Level Up. Level Up is a key part of how government supports companies to expand their exports, along with the Trade Accelerator Program, trade missions and the Alberta Export Expansion Program.
The Trade Accelerator Program is an in-person four-day workshop designed for companies starting their export journey and involves development of a market entry plan. Level Up builds on TAP by offering more sector and market-specific connections and resources, with a flexible mix of virtual and in-person options that make the program accessible to companies across Alberta.
Eligibility
Level Up serves Alberta companies that are:
- seeking practical supports and coaching to navigate trade challenges and opportunities
- targeting new or more complex markets
- aiming to reduce risk and be more prepared for international and domestic promotion and expansion
- seeking business-friendly trade resources and connections
- wanting to get the most out of trade missions
Alberta businesses meeting at least one of the following criteria are encouraged to apply:
- participation in a trade mission (led by the Government of Alberta, Calgary Economic Development, Global Affairs Canada and/or Edmonton Global)
- referral from government staff or a partner organization (Calgary Economic Development, Alberta Chambers of Commerce, Business Development Bank of Canada, Edmonton Global, Global Affairs Canada, JORI Logistics, Make More Creative and Top Draw)
- completion of the Trade Accelerator Program
- at least $250,000 in revenue during the most recent fiscal year
Alberta businesses not yet eligible for Level Up are encouraged to check out the Trade Accelerator Program.
The program experience
Level Up offers resources specific to target markets and sector opportunities for Alberta companies, as well as general topics to support many types of trade-related activities.
Level Up makes it easier to find the support needed to grow into more markets, including:
- step-by-step export guides and how to do business in key markets
- export funding and financial support programs
- trade mission details and coordination
- connections with other businesses and expert advisors
Level Up is delivered through multiple methods including:
- online self-directed learning
- small group workshops with companies interested in similar topics, sectors and regions
- direct coaching and hands-on practical support
- timely support for inquiries, referrals and troubleshooting
- hub of trade-related intel, events, contacts and resources
Following the initial launch in September 2026, the Level Up export resource hub will continue to expand, bringing in new content, expertise and resources to help Alberta businesses navigate trade challenges and opportunities.
Subscribe to the quarterly Trade Navigator newsletter to receive updates on Level Up and more trade supports for Alberta companies.
Find your community. Find your markets.
Then level up on the world stage.
News
- Putting Alberta-made businesses on the map (June 25, 2025)
- Levelling up local business for global success (September 22, 2026)
Contact
To be connected with the Level Up delivery team:
Email: [email protected]