Alberta Provincial Funding Allocation map for Economic Development and Innovation Background Information to accompany the map

WED, Community Futures Program Description: Community Futures organizations are comprised of volunteers and staff who are actively engaged in helping to develop and implement community-based economic development strategies with a focus on rural economic diversification. Core Services include: Small Business Loans eight different product loans, designed for particular business need. Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program Designed to make it easier for entrepreneurs with disabilities to pursue their business goals and contribute to economic growth. Small Business Training business training, business planning assistance and counsel for startup or expansion. Streaming web video available through partner GoForth Institute. Community Economic Development working alongside community leaders to develop strategic vision for the communitys future. Self Employment Program provides business training and financial assistance to new entrepreneurs. GoForth Institute Education for Entrepreneurs comprehensive training program delivered through web streaming. Clients served: Rural, non-sector based SMEs and individual entrepreneurs

RABC, EAE Program Description: Rural Business Centres provide services to entrepreneurs, small business owners, and managers at all stages of the business life cycle from the start-up to expansion to succession planning. Each rural business centre is staffed by a small business advisor who assists in providing one-on-one business advice, seminars, workshops, and access to relevant information about small businesses and business opportunities. Most services are free, though small fees may apply to educational offerings. This pilot program was launched in January 2012 and will run until December 2014. Clients served: Rural, non-sector based SMEs, entrepreneurs

REDA, EAE Program Description: Regional Economic Development Alliances are autonomous, not-for-profit regionals organizations with grassroots membership comprised of municipalities. REDAs include post-secondary institutions, Chambers of Commerce, Community Futures, School Boards, and federal/provincial programs and agencies. Each region has their own key initiatives, investment opportunities, and successes. Clients served: Rural Municipalities, some post-secondary facilities, counties/MDs

AITF RIN Technology Development Advisors (TDAs)

Program Description: Technology Development Advisors are industry, technical, product development and business experts who can provide you with information on current product development issues, sourcing of inputs, key business contacts, customer potential and first-hand experience in what makes good products work. Assistance may include:

Business advice competitive intelligence, market foresight, marketing and distribution, intellectual property, strategy and management Technology validation, development and scale-up, demonstration and deployment Financial access to capital, improving investment readiness People management capability and financial skills

Clients served: Rural, technology-based entrepreneurs and startups, SMEs, and local colleges.

Independent Entrepreneur/Tech Comm Service Providers URBAN focus Program Description: A list of companies who are independent of the Government of Alberta who provide a variety of services, programs and funding for entrepreneurs. They also provide networking events, training, access to mentors, etc. Clients served: Urban clientele including entrepreneurs, SMEs, youth.

EAE AITF Programs and Services Program Description: A list of centres and programs sponsored by EAE, some administered through AITF. Funding programs offered varied amounts of grant money and support. Clients served: Sector-specific entrepreneurs, start-up companies, established SMEs