The Government of Alberta has awarded $29.5 million in small business grants to support 12 cleantech projects. The investment will help accelerate innovative technology development projects that aim to reduce methane gas emissions. The contribution has been provided through the Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA) program, which supports the development of innovative technologies that can significantly…
When considering what foods to buy, more consumers are seeking products that cater to a balanced diet. In fact, when given the choice, 59% of consumers prefer to ‘eat clean’ and are more likely to purchase foods that are less processed. Today consumers are demanding greater access to whole foods such as fruits and vegetables,…
The Alberta Export Support Fund has helped small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) access new international markets. Since being launched in 2016, more than 80 Alberta-based companies have been awarded export grants to help reduce the costs of attending or participating in international trade shows and missions. The program provides up to 50% of project costs…
In recent years, the Government of Manitoba has been dedicated to identifying ways to improve the province’s waste disposal practices. According to Statistics Canada’s 2015 report, Manitoba produces an average of 1,026,522 tonnes of waste per year. Although actions have been taken to support waste management solutions, businesses and municipalities require the government’s support to…
As spring approaches, business owners and executives should continue looking for growth opportunities in 2017 and beyond. A great way to stay up-to-date on current industry news and network with other thought leaders is by attending Ontario small business events. Industry focused events provide an outlet for professional networking and access to expert knowledge. Throughout…
The Canadian Federal Budget 2017 was released last week to much interest from business and industry analysts. There was significant speculation surrounding the budget to see what direction Prime Minister Trudeau will be taking. Shortly after Minister Bill Morneau presented the budget to the House, it became clear that the Liberal government will continue investing…
Honda of Canada was recently awarded with $48.1 million in Canadian government grants through the Automotive Innovation Fund (AIF). This is the first time that the program has provided grants; previously the program only offered repayable funding. Through the announcement, further details were provided on the types of projects that will now qualify for automotive…
The Government of Canada is investing in agricultural technologies that increase farming productivity. As recently announced by the Canadian federal government, up to $425,000 in repayable government funding has been committed through the Western Innovation Initiative (WINN). This funding will assist a British Columbian technology developer to create a system that will help farmers reduce…
After 52 years in business, Cambridge Towel is expected to close its doors on November 30, 2016. The closure means that 120 unionized and 40 non-unionized jobs will be lost. After losing a major contract with Walmart in March 2016, the textile manufacturer faced financial pressure and has recently entered bankruptcy protection. Cambridge Towel understood the difficulties…
Developing value-added products and services is critical to Canada’s knowledge economy and competitiveness. More than ever, startups and early-stage businesses are being called on to support innovation and respond to new consumer/market preferences. Because of the rising demand for new consumer products, Canadian startups should focus on finding and establishing themselves within this market. Thankfully,…