Northern and Regional Economic Development Program

Organizations can apply for funding for projects that support economic development and diversification.

Important dates

Open for applications: Fall 2025
Application deadline: To be announced
Funding decision notification: To be announced

Overview

The Northern and Regional Economic Development (NRED) Program funds initiatives led by Alberta municipalities, Indigenous communities and non-profit organizations that promote regional economic development and diversification.

Funding

Approved applicants are eligible to receive between $10,000 to $300,000 to support eligible project costs. While there is no maximum total project cost under the program, grant funding will not exceed $300,000 per project.

  • For Indigenous applicants

    • The NRED Program will provide up to 75% of total eligible project costs.
    • Total eligible project costs must be a minimum of $13,333.
    • Applicants must be able to match the funding requested at a minimum of 25% of the total project cost.
  • For all other applicants

    • The NRED Program will provide up to 50% of total eligible project costs.
    • Total eligible project costs must be a minimum of $20,000.
    • Applicants must be able to match the funding requested at a minimum of 50% of the total project cost.

Eligibility

Review the NRED Program Application Guidelines for further information on eligibility.

  • Eligible applicants

    Entities eligible to apply for funding under the NRED Program include:

    • incorporated non-profit organizations that have an economic development mandate
    • municipalities
    • Indigenous communities, including First Nations or Métis Settlements

    Refer to the NRED Program Application Guidelines for further details on entities that are eligible to apply.

    Applications from project-based partnerships are permitted provided the application is submitted by an eligible entity (listed above). This entity will be considered the ‘lead’ and, if successful, will enter an agreement with the Alberta government on behalf of their organization and their partner(s).

  • Eligible projects

    The NRED Program funds initiatives that support economic development and will achieve tangible and impactful results in one or more of the following priority areas:

    • Increase investment readiness and regional attractiveness for private investment.
    • Support planning and feasibility studies that lead to economic development enabling investments to boost regional growth.
    • Support local and regional business and industry, business retention and expansion.

    Projects must not take more than 3 years to complete and must be ready to begin immediately at the start of the grant. An eligible project must identify with one of these project types:

    • Planning/feasibility studies: This includes market analyses, feasibility studies for new ventures, and other planning activities that lay the groundwork for future development projects.
    • Training or events: Projects that focus on enhancing skills and capacity through conferences, webinars, or other training events.
    • Marketing and investment/regional promotion: Initiatives aimed at attracting investments, promoting the region, and improving its appeal to private investors through targeted marketing campaigns and strategies.
    • Business retention and expansion projects: Projects that support the growth and expansion of local businesses, including initiatives that provide direct support to businesses to help them scale and become more competitive.
    • Other: Projects that align with program priorities but do not fit into the above categories. There include innovative initiatives, pilot projects, research and development, and unique approaches that support investment readiness, economic development, and business supports.
       

2022-23 Grant recipients

  • Northern Alberta

    Arts Council Wood Buffalo
    Arts Incubator Project is a plan to transform the Arts Council Wood Buffalo (ACWB) property in downtown Fort McMurray into a creative hub to drive economic opportunities.

    • Grant amount: $200,000

    Athabasca County
    Athabasca County Regional Branding Strategy and Initiatives will support a regional branding strategy for the Athabasca Region.

    • Grant amount: $102,750

    City of Grande Prairie
    The City of Grande Prairie will develop its Investment Attraction Action Plan.

    • Grant amount: $75,000

    Cold Lake First Nations
    PDEMS Fire Training Centre will deliver training and labour skill development for the fire department that address gaps in the local labour force.

    • Grant amount: $72,150

    Community Futures Lakeland
    The Power Up North 2023 Conference will deliver training sessions, networking and growth opportunities for entrepreneurs and businesses in the northeast region.

    • Grant amount $41,000

    County of St. Paul, No 19
    The Regional Tourism Development project will support a feasibility study to identify tourism opportunities and assets that can be further developed to build capacity in regional and provincial tourism.

    • Grant amount: $70,000

    Frog Lake First Nation
    The Developmental Indigenous Sustainable Hemp Ecosystem Strategy (DISHES) will develop a business feasibility study and an investment outreach strategy for Indigenous landowners, which will determine the viability of a hemp facility in the region.

    • Grant amount: $25,000

    Lac La Biche County
    The Main Street Revitalization project will improve the existing main street in order to increase business attraction and improve the visitor experience in Lac La Biche County.

    • Grant amount: $200,000

    Town of Westlock
    Heritage Building HVAC Energy Efficiency and Exterior Upgrade project modernize the Heritage Building in order to increase tourism traffic and bring more economic development opportunities to downtown Westlock.

    • Grant amount: $200,000

    County of Grande Prairie No. 1
    The County of Grande Prairie will implement its Industrial Investment Attraction Strategy and develop investment marketing.

    • Grant amount: $37,000

    High Level Native Friendship Centre Society
    The Friendship Park and History Walk project will enhance and upgrade the High Level Native Friendship Centre's amenities.

    • Grant amount: $114,000

    Mackenzie County
    Mackenzie County will develop an outdoor recreation and tourism plan.

    • Grant amount: $55,800

    Municipal District of Peace No. 135
    The Recreation and Tourism Development Signage project will help increase tourism to the Municipal District of Peace.

    • Grant amount: $24,500

    Northern Sunrise County
    Sunrise Gateway Busines Park Business Attraction Strategy will support a marketing package to attract new development in the Sunrise County Business Park.

    • Grant amount: $20,000

    Regional Economic Development Initiative for Northwest Alberta
    Northwest Alberta Investment Attraction and Business Development project will support the creation of business cases and undertaking activities, such as feasibility studies, workshops and conferences, to support local entrepreneurs and investors in the Northwest region.

    • Grant amount: $83,200

    The Village of Berwyn
    The Berwyn Main Street Beautification project will support the development of a highway-commercial and multi-family residential structure plan.

    • Grant amount: $33,000

    Town of Fox Creek
    The Fox Creek Wayfinding Signage project will enhance wayfinding signage in Fox Creek.

    • Grant amount: $199,300

    Town of Grimshaw
    The Social Media Readiness and Development project will provide business supports and marketing within the Town of Grimshaw.

    • Grant amount: $30,000

    Town of High Level
    The High Level Business Attraction project will support proactive attraction of new businesses and services that fill existing commercial, industrial, and services gaps.

    • Grant amount: $99,500

    Town of Peace River
    The Town of Peace River will develop the Investment Attraction Strategy for a Northern Hub.

    • Grant amount: $32,500

    Town of Slave Lake
    The Industrial Land Market and Fiscal Impact Analysis project will develop an investment attraction action plan for the Town of Slave Lake.

    • Grant amount: $35,500

    Town of Spirit River
    The Town of Spirit River will upgrade and revitalize the Chepi Sepe Campground.

    • Grant amount: $30,475

    Village of Donnelly
    The Hemp Decortication, Economic Development Strategy and Infrastructure Improvements Project will support a strategy to develop a new agricultural and processing industry within northern Alberta's largest agricultural area.

    • Grant amount: $100,000

    Willmore Wilderness Preservation and Historical Foundation
    The Rocky Mountain Traditions Moving Forward project will support marketing, tourism awareness and capacity building in the guide and outfitting sectors.

    • Grant amount: $149,000
  • Central Alberta

    Camrose County
    The Choose Camrose Region Marketing Campaign will promote rural communities and businesses in Camrose County to bring awareness and infuse economic growth.

    • Grant amount: $21,900

    Camrose Regional Exhibition and Agricultural Society
    Camrose Regional Exhibition Economic Impact Study will evaluate the economic benefits of the Camrose Regional Exhibition.

    • Grant amount: $25,000

    City of Camrose, Tourism Development
    The project will help build capacity in economic development, and create a trail master plan and a destination and events attraction plan for the City of Camrose.

    • Grant amount: $54,750

    Flagstaff County
    The Flagstaff Business Support Hub Program will provide business supports and capacity building for small business owners in the Flagstaff region.

    • Grant amount: $84,700

    Go East Regional Tourism Organization
    The Go East RTO Regional Tourism Development and Industry Support Initiative will provide business support and training for entrepreneurs northeast, east and southeast of Edmonton aimed to retain and create new jobs in the tourism industry.

    • Grant amount: $40,000

    Lamont County
    Lamont County's Integrated Heartland Infrastructure Planning project will support infrastructure planning in Lamont County's heavy industrial area in order to facilitate client needs aiming to locate their projects in Lamont County.

    • Grant amount: $200,000

    Samson Cree Nation
    The National Final Rodeo Tourism Project will assist in building tourism capacity for Samson Cree Nation and area.

    • Grant amount: $35,925

    Town of Drumheller
    CN Rail to Trail Wayfinding Signage project will improve the trail network and pedestrian connectivity to allow better access to town businesses, gathering places, and natural amenities.

    • Grant amount: $38,000

    Town of Provost
    Provost and Region Tourist Revitalization Partnership will create a cohesive tourism plan for economic impact in Provost and throughout the region.

    • Grant amount: $34,000

    Town of Sedgewick
    The Connect Mobility Project will make upgrades to provide better connectivity for underserved businesses in Sedgewick.

    • Grant amount: $50,000

    Town of Vegreville
    The Town of Vegreville will develop a wayfinding signage master plan and signage standards that tailor to Vegreville's brand and identity, which will create easy navigation for residents and visitors to the community.

    • Grant amount: $20,075

    Town of Wainwright
    The Wainwright Economic Development 2023-2024 Project will create and implement business support and marketing campaigns for the Town of Wainwright.

    • Grant amount: $24,000

    Alberta Information and Communications Technology Council
    The Technology Alberta Connected Growth Program will facilitate a robust, pan-provincial network to unleash economic potential in municipal districts through stronger relationships and connections.

    • Grant amount: $100,000

    Alberta's Industrial Heartland Association
    The Economic Competitiveness Benchmarking project will develop a study for economic competitiveness benchmarking of capital cost and other variables that impact final investment decisions for petrochemical facilities.

    • Grant amount: $100,000

    City of Edmonton
    The Improving Downtown Edmonton's Urban Forest project will support the beautification of Downtown Edmonton's core as part of the implementation of the Downtown Vibrancy Strategy.

    • Grant amount: $200,000

    City of Fort Saskatchewan
    The Fort Saskatchewan Downtown Action Plan Expansion project will revitalize Downtown Fort Saskatchewan by redesigning and rehabilitating 104th Street to better serve local businesses.

    • Grant amount: $200,000

    Digital Media Association of Alberta
    The Alberta Game Series Expansion project will implement a conference that will bring together the Alberta game development industry.

    • Grant amount: $54,100

    Parkland County
    The Parkland County will implement its Tourism Blueprint project.

    • Grant amount: $100,000

    Spruce Grove City Centre Business Association
    Spruce Grove City Centre Business Association will host an event to bring high visitor traffic to the city centre of Spruce Grove.

    • Grant amount: $20,000

    Central Alberta Economic Partnership Ltd.
    The Building Local Economic Development Capacity through Regional Economic Diversification and Growth project will support a strategic plan for business retention, expansion and attraction.

    • Grant amount: $30,000

    City of Lacombe
    The Downtown Area Redevelopment Plan Priority Projects will upgrade the downtown core to make it more accessible and welcoming.

    • Grant amount: $200,000

    Lacombe County
    The Success Grows Here: Building Capacity for Regional Economic Development in Lacombe County project will help build capacity to retain and attract business investment in Lacombe County.

    • Grant amount: $30,000

    Town of Blackfalds
    The Regional Economic Development Initiative - Vehicular and Pedestrian Wayfinding Signage Updates/Bike Skills Park Signage project support wayfinding signage upgrades and enhancements throughout the Town of Blackfalds.

    • Grant amount: $21,615

    Town of Innisfail
    The Innisfail Cultivating Investment Program will support a strategy and marketing plan to attract investment in Innisfail.

    • Grant amount: $59,750

    Town of Sylvan Lake
    The Town of Slave Lake will use funding to support research, planning and strategy development, and marketing for labour force attraction in Sylvan Lake.

    • Grant amount: $90,000

    Downtown Canmore Business Improvement Area
    The Canmore Downtown Study will support the development of a restructure plan for the Town of Canmore.

    • Grant amount: $23,700

    Edson Friendship Centre
    The Willow River Lodges project will upgrade and enhance the Willmore Campground.

    • Grant amount: $25,000

    Hinton and District Chamber of Commerce Association
    The Destination Management Organization project will build capacity to enhance visitor services.

    • Grant amount: $70,000

    Municipal District of Bighorn No.8
    The Harvey Heights Area Redevelopment Plan will support consulting services to address and remove barriers to coordinated redevelopment hotel lots at the border of Banff National Park.

    • Grant amount: $50,000

    Town of Drayton Valley
    The Labour Market and Industry Gap Analysis project will create a comprehensive industry and labour report and an implementation plan.

    • Grant amount: $37,500

    Town of Hinton
    The Trails Tourism Initiative will enhance the outdoor adventure tourist experience in Hinton.

    • Grant amount: $40,000
  • Southern Alberta

    Alberta Southwest Regional Alliance Ltd.
    The Alberta Southwest Regional Alliance Ltd. conduct a feasibility study for the Manufacturing, Energy, Construction, Agriculture Processing (MECAP) Network Development Project.

    • Grant amount: $25,000

    BIPOC Foundation
    The Building Longevity in Alberta's Rural Black Business Communities project will provide the “Done For You" guided business plan to 10 entrepreneurs in order to accelerate their ability to finalize or strengthen their business models.

    • Grant amount: $40,000

    City of Medicine Hat
    The City of Medicine Hat will develop a regional economic development strategy aiming to improve the regional capability to attract and retain economic growth in southeast Alberta.

    • Grant amount: $200,000

    Community Futures Lethbridge Region
    The Blackfoot Morphology Project will support wayfinding signage for the Lethbridge region.

    • Grant amount: $27,500

    Community Futures Wild Rose
    Funding will help building capacity for entrepreneurs by providing access to training and mentorship throughout the Community Futures Wild Rose Region.

    • Grant amount: $76,270

    Lethbridge Destination Management Organization
    The Southern Alberta Market Readiness Training will build capacity for new and existing tourism businesses to increase revenues and profits through market readiness training.

    • Grant amount: $76,000

    Lethbridge Economic Development Initiative Society
    Funding will support infrastructure capacity building and increase the online presence of Canada's Premier Food Corridor.

    • Grant amount: $100,000

    Southgrow Regional Initiative
    The Regional Economic Development Solar Project will support a feasibility study to explore the potential for developing the Southgrow Solar Project.

    • Grant amount: $21,250

    Town of Claresholm
    The Development by Design project will develop an area structure plan for highway-commercial and multi-family residential development.

    • Grant amount: $52,430

    Town of Raymond
    The Economic Development Capacity Building and Sports Tourism Readiness project will upgrade and market the Victoria Sports Park in the Town of Raymond to attract more economic activity.

    • Grant amount: $21,540

    City of Airdrie
    The Advancing Airdrie’s Economic Strategy will implement the Airdrie's downtown revitalization plan, identifying opportunities and potential in the sport tourism sector, and providing local business supports.

    • Grant amount: $195,000

    E.D.A. Alberta (An Association of Economic Developers)
    Phase 2: Building Community Economic Development Capacity through Professional Development Training and Certification Opportunities will launch three educational modules for the E.D.A Alberta Learning Platform.

    • Grant amount: $81,250

    Foothills Tourism Association
    The Foothills Tourism photo asset social media promotional project will help promote tourism to Alberta’s foothills region through social media.

    • Grant amount: $23,000.00

    Inglewood Business Improvement Area
    Inglewood Gateway AR Mural will help beautify Calgary's historic main street.

    • Grant amount: $21,500

    Town of Okotoks
    Okotoks Economic Development Strategy will support the completion of the Town of Okotoks Economic Development Strategy.

    • Grant amount: $40,000

2023-24 Grant recipients

  • Northern Alberta

    Alberta HUB
    Funding will support a feasibility study for the Northeast Alberta Sector Development Strategy

    • Grant amount: $86,830

    Big Lakes County
    Funding will support the establishment of a website for county business supports.

    • Grant amount: $22,000

    Chard Métis Community Association
    Funding will support the recruitment of an economic development officer.

    • Grant amount: $132,020

    City of Cold Lake
    Funding will support hosting the 2025 Aerospace Industry Symposium, which promotes unmanned aerial vehicle technology in collaboration with defence and industry sectors.

    • Grant amount: $30,000

    City of Grande Prairie
    Funding will support the creation of the “Starting a Business in Grande Prairie” resource guide by Invest Grande Prairie.

    • Grant amount: $36,000

    Cold Lake First nations
    Funding will support a feasibility study to see how the Casino Dene's expansion will drive local economic activity.

    • Grant amount: $108,600

    Community Futures Lesser Slave Lake Region
    Funding will support the creation of a strategic plan to enhance the regional growth team.

    • Grant amount: $62,000

    Community Futures Wood Buffalo
    Funding will support the establishment of a technology centre in Fort McMurray, Wood Buffalo.

    • Grant amount: $200,000

    County of Grande Prairie
    Funding will support an investment attraction initiative.

    • Grant amount: $188,500

    Elizabeth Métis Settlement
    Funding will support the enhancement of economic activities in the community.

    • Grant amount: $63,000

    Grande Prairie Chamber of Commerce
    Funding will support the chamber's regional workforce development partnership.

    • Grant amount: $155,000

    Growth Alberta (Grizzly Regional Economic Alliance Society)
    Funding will support the implementation of the Growth Regional Economic Development Association (REDA), and Growth Regional Emissions Education Taskforce Symposium (GREETS) projects.

    • Grant amount: $33,000

    Lac La Biche County
    Funding will support the McArthur Park redevelopment project.

    • Grant amount: $200,000

    Loon River First Nation
    Funding will support a feasibility study for a business infrastructure development project.

    • Grant amount: $150,000

    Municipal District of Bonnyville
    Funding will support the creation of an investment attraction action plan through an Airport Development Economic Impact Assessment.

    • Grant amount: $75,370

    Municipal District of Opportunity
    Funding will support the rebranding and enhancement of community entrance signs.

    • Grant amount: $200,000

    Oosita Group – Fort Chipewyan Métis Nation
    Funding will support the recruitment of an economic development officer.

    • Grant amount: $150,000

    Prairie Gallery Society
    Funding will support an indigenous programming and exhibitions project.

    • Grant amount: $57,220

    Town of Bonnyville
    Funding will support upgrading main street decorative lights in the downtown core to drive retail traffic.

    • Grant amount: $138,035

    Town of High Level
    Funding will support a wayfinding signage strategy and implementation plan.

    • Grant amount: $81,200

    Town of Peace River
    Funding will support a wayfinding and tourism signage project to increase awareness of tourism destinations and local businesses.

    • Grant amount: $200,000

    Town of Sexsmith
    Funding will support community capacity building to grow the local economy.

    • Grant amount: $56,730

    Town of Spirit River
    Funding will support a feasibility study for the Pleasant View Lodge through an infrastructure condition assessment.

    • Grant amount: $20,860

    Town of Wembley
    Funding will support a strategic re-branding project to increase tourism.

    • Grant amount: $200,000

    Wood Buffalo Economic Development Corporation
    Funding will support training and coaching for entrepreneurs and small and medium businesses.

    • Grant amount: $91,000

    Woodlands County
    Funding will support county re-branding to attract and retain business and workforce

    • Grant amount: $62,500
  • Central Alberta

    Brazeau County
    Funding will support a feasibility study for sector strategy development regarding emerging commodities.

    • Grant amount: $48,510

    Central Alberta Economic Partnership Ltd.
    Funding will support workshops that create and enhance economic development capacity.

    • Grant amount: $23,450

    City of Edmonton
    Funding will support a feasibility study on retention and an expansion survey for launching shop-local campaigns.

    • Grant amount: $200,000

    City of Leduc
    Funding will support the creation of an economic development strategy to strengthen business attraction, leverage emerging sectors and drive sustainable growth.

    • Grant amount: $37,500

    City of Lloydminster
    Funding will support a feasibility study on downtown revitalization through an area redevelopment plan.

    • Grant amount: $165,100

    City of Red Deer
    Funding will support a feasibility study on joint economic development and regional transportation with Red Deer County.

    • Grant amount: $100,000

    City of Spruce Grove
    Funding will support a feasibility study for a business incubator and startup support strategy.

    • Grant amount: $20,520

    County of Paintearth
    Funding will provide business supports and training for the County.

    • Grant amount: $68,020

    County of Two Hills
    Funding will support the establishment of a County tourism and marketing plan

    • Grant amount: $122,450

    County of Vermilion River
    Funding will support the establishment of business supports and training for the County.

    • Grant amount: $26,000

    Digital Media Association of Alberta
    Funding will support hosting the Alberta Games Series Conference.

    • Grant amount: $62,020

    Flagstaff County
    Funding will support the establishment of business supports for the County.

    • Grant amount: $113,000

    Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI)
    Funding will support the implementation of the JEDI Rural Industrial Land Development Opportunity Assessment plan.

    • Grant amount: $22,000

    Leduc County
    Funding will support the Drink, Food & Tourism Capacity Development project.

    • Grant amount: $200,000

    Paintearth Economic Partnership Society
    Funding will support a feasibility study on how to attract and establish a local class 1 driving school.

    • Grant amount: $20,000

    Samson Cree Nation
    Funding will support a feasibility study and strategic tourism plan, including conceptual design and costing of a Cree Cultural Powwow Centre.

    • Grant amount: $119,500

    Spruce Grove City Centre Business Association
    Funding will support the establishment of business supports to boost regional tourism and highlight small businesses for the region.

    • Grant amount: $23,040

    Sustainable Red Deer Society
    Funding will support a feasibility study to explore the employment opportunities in Red Deer through Indigenous perspectives.

    • Grant amount: $27,500

    Town of Mayerthorpe
    Funding will support a main street rehabilitation project, including the enhancement of the primary business corridor.

    • Grant amount: $100,000

    Town of Onoway
    Funding will support the development of a marketing strategy and action plan focused on business retention, growth and attraction of new businesses.

    • Grant amount: $36,050

    Town of Two Hills
    Funding will support the economic development capacity building project to revitalize the local economy.

    • Grant amount: $80,000

    Town of Vermilion
    Funding will support a pylon sign implementation project to increase visibility of the town to highway traffic.

    • Grant amount: $56,490

    Westerner Park and Exposition Association
    Funding will support a wayfinding signage strategy to increase tourism and retail traffic.

    • Grant amount: $200,000

    Westlock County
    Funding will support the attraction and development of low-carbon industrial facilities.

    • Grant amount: $200,000
  • Southern Alberta

    Biohubx
    Funding will support the enhancement of Alberta's sciences sector.

    • Grant amount: $171,250

    City of Airdrie
    Funding will support a feasibility study on sector analysis for foreign direct investment strategy development, urban modelling to attract new businesses, and realign the tax base.

    • Grant amount: $200,000

    City of Medicine Hat
    Funding will support the development of a strategic airport master plan for Medicine Hat Regional Airport.

    • Grant amount: $125,000

    County of Newell
    Completion of the Kinbrook Connection Pathway that links the Kinbrook Island Provincial Park to Brooks.

    • Grant amount: $200,000

    Danish Canadian National Museum
    Funding will support the creation of a marketing campaign for the Danish Canadian National Museum.

    • Grant amount: $25,420

    Didsbury & District Chamber of Commerce
    Funding will support the enhancement of the Didsbury Food Processing Hub.

    • Grant amount: $21,875

    E.D.A. Alberta (An Association of Economic Developers)
    Funding will support the expansion of the Economic Disaster Resiliency Program through business supports and workshops.

    • Grant amount: $72,020

    Kananaskis Improvement District
    Funding will support the creation of a tourism and destination development resiliency plan.

    • Grant amount: $52,500

    Lethbridge Economic Development Initiative Society
    Funding will support the development of a Market Intelligence & Investment Infrastructure Enhancement plan.

    • Grant amount: $155,000

    Municipal District of Pincher Creek
    Funding will support the administration of the renewable energy analysis and review project.

    • Grant amount: $25,000

    Palliser Economic Partnership
    Funding will support a feasibility study for an investment attraction strategy.

    • Grant amount: $70,000

    Rocky View County
    Funding will support a feasibility study to define tourism-driven growth prospects, focusing on hospitality, food services and retail within the region.

    • Grant amount: $200,000

    SouthGrow Regional Initiative
    Funding will support planning and management for an electric vehicle charging stations project.

    • Grant amount: $22,950

    Starland County
    Funding will support a feasibility study for the economic development strategy of a mixed use commercial and light industrial business park.

    • Grant amount: $93,580

    Stoney Nakoda Nations
    Funding will support a sustainable economic growth strategy.

    • Grant amount: $200,000

    The Badlands Amphitheatre
    Funding will support the creation of a tourism strategy and implementation plan for the Canadian Badlands.

    • Grant amount: $131,200

    The Banff/Lake Louise Tourism Bureau
    Funding will support a feasibility study for Indigenous tourism strategies to generate demand for winter overnight stays.

    • Grant amount: $156,400

    Town of Crossfield
    Funding will support a feasibility study for business retention and attraction to enhance investment readiness.

    • Grant amount: $41,000

    Town of Okotoks
    Funding will support a tourism strategy and action plan.

    • Grant amount: $37,250

    Town of Olds
    Funding will support a feasibility study for business retention, expansion, and sector gap analysis.

    • Grant amount: $75,000

    Town of Sundre
    Funding will support the Mountain View Regional Film Office (MVRFO) strategic plan for the enhancement of the workforce attraction in the screen industry.

    • Grant amount: $50,000

    Village of Foremost
    Funding will support optimizing the beyond visual line of sight smart agricultural project to boost productivity and sustainability.

    • Grant amount: $200,000

    Western District Historical Society
    Funding will support the creation of an agricultural tourism destination targeting recreational vehicle tourists.

    • Grant amount: $56,575

    Wheatland County
    Funding will support a feasibility study that facilitates, attracts and secures the development of low-carbon industrial facilities.

    • Grant amount: $45,900

2024-25 Grant recipients

  • Northern Alberta

    Chard Métis Community Association

    Funding will support a business plan for a nitrogen production facility to drive Indigenous-led economic development and strengthen local industry in the Wood Buffalo region.    

    • $200,400

    City of Grande Prairie

    Funding will support a strategic land use and economic development plan to enhance the commercial potential of the Grande Prairie Airport.

    • $41,000

    Cold Lake First Nations

    Funding will support a feasibility study for a culturally immersive and sustainable campground to promote tourism, reconciliation, and regional economic development.

    • $225,000

    Community Futures Grande Prairie & Region

    Funding will support a regional incubator space to provide entrepreneurs with affordable workspace, coaching, and resources in the Grande Prairie region.

    • $125,600

    Community Futures Wood Buffalo

    Funding will support entrepreneurship training and business development in rural and Indigenous communities to promote job creation and economic diversification in the Wood Buffalo region.

    • $300,000

    Community Futures Yellowhead East

    Funding will support a regional marketing strategy and training to improve investment readiness, attract private investment, and support business growth in the Yellowhead East region.

    • $109,700

    County of Grande Prairie No. 1

    Funding will support investor engagement and international marketing activities to attract investment and promote long-term economic growth in the Grande Prairie-Greenview Corridor.

    • $272,500

    County of St. Paul No. 19

    Funding will support a feasibility study to repurpose the Windsor Salt Plant for new industrial uses and attract investment to diversify the local economy.

    • $35,000

    Dene Tha' First Nation

    Funding will support shovel-ready plans for a permanent store to improve access to goods, create jobs, and strengthen economic opportunities in Dene Tha' communities.

    • $300,000

    Grande Prairie Chamber of Commerce

    Funding will support workforce development and data tools to address labour shortages and strengthen small business growth in the Grande Prairie-Greenview Corridor.

    • $300,000

    Heart of the Lakeland Marketing Association

    Funding will support a tourism development strategy to enhance Alberta’s Lakeland region, strengthen local businesses, and attract private investment.

    • $183,000

    Lac La Biche Regional Community Development Corporation

    Funding will support a regional event to strengthen economic partnerships, promote collaboration, and attract investment to support local businesses.

    • $10,000

    M.D. of Bonnyville No. 87

    Funding will support a feasibility study to evaluate water infrastructure expansion to enable industrial, agricultural, and aviation growth in the Aurora Borealis region.

    • $25,000

    Metis Nation of Alberta Association - Fort McMurray Local Council 1935

    Funding will support strategic and operational planning to launch the McMurray Métis Cultural Centre as a hub for Indigenous tourism and economic development.

    • $239,600

    Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130

    Funding will support marketing, branding, and investment tools to position the Smoky River region as a hub for growth and attract residents and investors.

    • $107,500

    Northeastern Alberta Aboriginal Business Association (2000)

    Funding will support an assessment of Indigenous business capacity in the Wood Buffalo region to identify growth opportunities and support long-term sustainability.

    • $83,300

    Oosita Group of Companies (Assoc. Fort Chipewyan Métis Nation)

    Funding will support a feasibility study and business plan for a community-led ecotourism initiative to promote cultural heritage and economic opportunities in Fort Chipewyan.

    • $215,000

    Regional Economic Development Initiative For Northwest Alberta

    Funding will support marketing and packaging efforts to boost value-added agriculture and food production in Northwest Alberta.

    • $75,000

    Slave Lake Region Tourism Society

    Funding will support tourism marketing and regional collaboration to promote the Lesser Slave Lake region and boost economic growth.

    • $38,400

    Smoky Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce Association

    Funding will support the development of a 10-year strategic plan to strengthen business support and attract investment in the region.

    • $10,000

    Town of Bruderheim

    Funding will support a feasibility study to develop an economic development strategy focused on investment readiness and business attraction.

    • $20,000

    Town of High Level

    Funding will support planning work to prepare residential land for development and address housing needs in High Level.

    • $200,000

    Town of Peace River

    Funding will support a retail gap and destination assessment to enhance business attraction and investment readiness.

    • $52,500

    Town of Slave Lake

    Funding will support a marketing campaign to attract private investment and promote the Slave Lake region.

    • $28,400

    Town of Spirit River

    Funding will support a planning study to prepare land for development and address infrastructure needs in Spirit River and surrounding municipalities.

    • $50,000

    Town of Whitecourt

    Funding will support the development of a utility master plan to enhance investment readiness and support business attraction.

    • $150,000

    Whitefish Lake First Nation #128

    Funding will support a feasibility study to explore the expansion of cattle ranch operations and strengthen Indigenous-led agriculture.

    • $78,900

    Willmore Wilderness Preservation and Historical Foundation

    Funding will support training and promotion to grow Alberta’s guiding industry and attract investment to the Grande Cache region.

    • $290,900

    Wood Buffalo Economic Development Corporation

    Funding will support a business retention and expansion strategy with training and supports for small and medium enterprises.

    • $158,100

    Woodland Cree First Nation

    Funding will support a feasibility study to assess the development of a resort and gathering space in Northern Alberta.

    • $96,800

    Woodlands County

    Funding will support regional marketing and infrastructure planning to attract corporate investment and boost economic growth.

    • $255,000

    Metis Settlements General Council

    Funding will support the development of economic strategies for all eight Métis Settlements to enhance opportunities, explore emerging industries, and ensure long-term sustainability.

    • $150,000
  • Central Alberta

    Alberta Community and Co-operative Association

    Funding will support a province-wide co-op sector tour, conference, and marketing campaign to promote investment readiness and regional collaboration.

    • $81,200

    Battle River Alliance for Economic Development

    Funding will support workshops for tourism and agriculture operators to strengthen business retention and boost rural investment in the Battle River region.

    • $20,000

    Brazeau County

    Funding will support the development of an economic strategy, including branding, marketing, and business retention efforts to attract investment and support regional growth.

    • $75,000

    Central Alberta Economic Partnership Ltd.

    Funding will support regional investment promotion at the SiteLink Conference to attract international interest and strengthen economic development in Central Alberta.

    • $95,000

    City of Fort Saskatchewan

    Funding will support updates to the city’s wastewater and transportation masterplans to enable sustainable growth and attract future investment.

    • $212,500

    City of Leduc

    Funding will support investment attraction and marketing plans to promote Leduc’s strategic advantages and attract high-value investment to the region.

    • $72,500

    City of Lloydminster

    Funding will support marketing and investment initiatives to address service gaps, attract businesses, and boost regional competitiveness in the Lloydminster area.

    • $27,000

    City of St. Albert

    Funding will support the development of a tourism strategy and destination plan to enhance visitor experiences and strengthen St. Albert’s local economy.

    • $35,000

    Digital Media Association of Alberta

    Funding will support mentorship, events, and investor engagement to grow Alberta’s gaming industry and boost visibility for local studios.

    • $22,500

    Edmonton Chamber of Commerce

    Funding will support a feasibility study and business plan to revitalize the World Trade Centre Edmonton and expand international trade opportunities for local businesses.

    • $53,400

    ELIXR Simulations Association

    Funding will support internships and prototype development to help Alberta businesses explore extended reality (XR) technologies and strengthen the tech ecosystem.

    • $140,000

    Kneehill County

    Funding will support an Area Structure Plan to guide tourism, retail, and residential development in Horseshoe Canyon and attract future investment.

    • $85,700

    Leduc County

    Funding will support marketing and investment campaigns to position Leduc as a global logistics hub and attract private investment to the region.

    • $79,100

    Leduc Regional Chamber of Commerce

    Funding will support training, coaching, and feasibility programming to strengthen small businesses and promote economic development in the Leduc and Wetaskiwin regions.

    • $119,100

    Metis Settlements General Council

    Funding will support a tourism feasibility study and asset assessment to promote cultural preservation and economic growth across Alberta’s eight Métis Settlements.

    • $138,800

    and

    Funding will support the development of economic strategies for all eight Métis Settlements to enhance opportunities, explore emerging industries, and ensure long-term sustainability.

    • $150,000

    NeurAlbertaTech Neurotechnologies Ltd.

    Funding will support innovation and talent development in neurotechnology and AI through workshops, hackathons, and startup support across Alberta.

    • $250,000

    Central Alberta Tourism Alliance (CATA)

    Funding will support a tourism economic impact study to help businesses and municipalities in Central Alberta adapt, grow, and attract investment.

    • $133,200

    Society for Joint Economic Development Initiatives

    Funding will support the development of a regional tourism strategy to promote Indigenous heritage, boost visitor traffic, and support small businesses in Wetaskiwin County and Maskwacis.

    • $40,000

    Sustainable Red Deer Society

    Funding will support a feasibility study on agrivoltaics to explore inclusive employment and renewable energy opportunities.

    • $15,000

    The Banff/Lake Louise Tourism Bureau

    Funding will support marketing initiatives to promote winter tourism experiences in Banff National Park.

    • $76,000

    Town of Stony Plain

    Funding will support planning and marketing work to prepare land for commercial and industrial development in Stony Plain.

    • $300,000

    Travel Drumheller Marketing Assoc.

    Funding will support workforce development and tourism business training to strengthen Drumheller’s visitor economy.

    • $164,100

    Village of Breton

    Funding will support branding, website development, and marketing to attract investment and promote local businesses.

    • $60,100

    Walkthrough Entertainment Society for the Interactive Arts in Alberta

    Funding will support training and marketing to help diverse founders in Alberta’s games industry become investment ready.

    • $86,000
  • Southern Alberta

    Alberta Farm Fresh Producers Association

    Funding will support agri-tourism training and marketing initiatives to strengthen rural businesses and promote sustainable growth across Alberta’s agricultural communities.

    • $300,000

    Alberta Small Brewers Association

    Funding will support technical training and education to strengthen Alberta’s craft brewing sector and expand market opportunities for small brewers.

    • $63,000

    Alberta SouthWest Regional Alliance Ltd.

    Funding will support feasibility studies and marketing initiatives to strengthen investment readiness and promote regional growth across 15 municipalities.

    • $77,300

    Calgary Economic Development Ltd.

    Funding will support a collaborative initiative across eight municipalities to develop shared economic strategies, enhance investment readiness, and strengthen business retention in the Calgary region.

    • $300,000

    Chiniki First Nation

    Funding will support infrastructure planning for a workforce housing development to strengthen regional labour capacity and support economic growth in Banff, Canmore, and surrounding areas.

    • $281,300

    City of Airdrie

    Funding will support economic strategy updates, feasibility studies, and entrepreneur support initiatives to drive long-term growth and investment in Airdrie.

    • $245,800

    Cochrane Tourism Association

    Funding will support tourism sector development in Cochrane through training, data tools, and visitor services to foster sustainable growth and support local businesses.

    • $38,300

    Community Futures Highwood

    Funding will support a tech incubator in Okotoks that offers workspaces, mentorship, and training to help startups grow and diversify the local economy.

    • $52,800

    Community Futures Treaty Seven

    Funding will support workshops, mentorship, and networking opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs in Treaty Seven to build business and digital skills.

    • $41,300

    Community Futures Wild Rose

    Funding will support training, trade awareness events, and business support to address workforce shortages and strengthen small and medium enterprises in the region.

    • $132,200

    Cypress County

    Funding will support the development of a 10-year investment strategy to attract private investment in agriculture, tourism, and renewable energy.

    • $30,000

    E.D.A. Alberta (An Association of Economic Developers)

    Funding will support strategy development and capacity building to enhance regional economic resilience in Jasper, Edson, Hinton, and Yellowhead County.

    • $36,000

    Foothills County

    Funding will support a marketing campaign and economic development plan to attract investment, support local businesses, and strengthen the regional economy.

    • $29,500

    Generate Canada Inc.

    Funding will support feasibility studies and strategy development to attract investment in critical minerals and clean electricity, supporting Alberta’s low-carbon economy.

    • $300,000

    Innovate Cochrane

    Funding will support the digital transformation of a rural innovation program to provide training, reduce barriers for small businesses, and promote scalable economic growth.

    • $172,100

    Langdon & District Chamber of Commerce

    Funding will support the development of a business support website to enhance visibility, networking, and investment readiness for local small and medium enterprises.

    • $14,300

    Lethbridge Economic Development Initiative Society (LEDI)

    Funding will support a feasibility study to explore the creation of a Creative Industries Hub in Southern Alberta, supporting growth in film, digital media, and interactive arts.

    • $50,000

    Lethbridge Economic Development Initiative Society (LEDI)

    Funding will support training, mentorship, and digital tools to grow agrifood businesses and promote innovation in Canada’s Premier Food Corridor.

    • $97,600

    Momentum Community Economic Development Society

    Funding will support training, mentorship, and pitch events to help Indigenous and purpose-driven businesses become investment-ready and scale their operations.

    • $70,000

    Siksika Nation Tribal Administration

    Funding will support a small business incubator to provide training, mentorship, and resources for entrepreneurs in the Siksika Nation.

    • $300,000

    SouthGrow Regional Initiative

    Funding will support tailored economic development plans for 30 municipalities in Southern Alberta to address capacity gaps, improve investment readiness, and promote long-term regional growth.

    • $128,000

    The Calgary Chamber of Commerce

    Funding will support a series of sector-specific events to strengthen business growth and economic resilience.

    • $70,400

    Town of Cochrane

    Funding will support an updated economic development strategy to guide investment readiness and sustainable growth.

    • $75,000

    Town of Strathmore

    Funding will support the development of an online business hub and marketing platform to attract investment and support local businesses.

    • $91,000

    Town of Taber

    Funding will support a targeted marketing campaign to attract foreign direct investment to Taber’s key industries.

    • $17,500

Contact

Connect with the NRED Program:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 1-833-JET-NRED (1-833-538-6733)