Supporting economic growth in rural communities

Alberta’s government is providing Indigenous and small communities with an additional $3 million in grants to maximize opportunities in rural areas.

Indigenous and small communities play a vital role in the province’s economy. Working together with non-profits, they tap into opportunities and address unique challenges to help rural Alberta grow its economic footprint.

To support local projects that promote innovation and sustainable economic growth across the province, Alberta’s government is providing the second round of grants through the Small Community Opportunity Program. The program has awarded grants between $20,000 and $90,000 for 41 community-led projects that build capacity in agriculture, small-business supports and local economic development.

“Indigenous and small communities are vital to Alberta and its long-term economic prosperity. For the second year, the Small Community Opportunity Program is financially backing Indigenous and small communities. These grants help to build capacity in small businesses and the agriculture industry. When rural communities succeed, all of Alberta thrives.” — RJ Sigurdson, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation

“Indigenous communities are vital partners in building a prosperous province. These investments empower local leaders, foster innovation, strengthen local economies and help build vibrant, self-sustaining communities.” — Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Indigenous Relations

Each of the successful projects aligns with the Economic Development in Rural Alberta Plan, which works to ensure rural Albertans and Indigenous communities have economic opportunities where they live. Grant recipients have two years to complete their projects and make a measurable impact supporting, improving or enhancing economic development in rural and Indigenous communities and/or the agriculture industry.

Quick facts

Small Community Opportunity Program projects align with one or more of these strategic directions in the Economic Development in Rural Alberta Plan:

• rural business supports and entrepreneurship

• support for labour force and skills development

• marketing and promoting rural tourism

• rural economic development capacity building

Each project also addresses one or more of these priority areas:

• entrepreneurship and mentorship

• skills development

• small business supports

• partnerships, interconnectivity and collaboration

The Small Community Opportunity Program is made possible through Budget 2023 to provide up to $3 million per year in 2023-24 and 2024-25.