by Morinville News Staff
Alberta small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) entering new international markets may benefit from a new suite of programs the government is launching under the Alberta Export Expansion Package banner.
The package consists of three new programs and up to $9 million in funding over the next three years.
The first fo the three offerings, the Export Support Fund, provides eligible Alberta companies with money to ease the costs of exporting to new international markets.
The Global Buyers and Investors Program helps export-ready companies connect with international investors by bringing business delegations to the province.
The last of the three, the Export Readiness Program, helps familiarize Alberta SMEs with the business of exporting and helps get them ready for the export market.
“Alberta is a trade province, and we’re setting Alberta companies up to succeed in the world market,” said Deron Bilous, Minister of Economic Development and Trade. “When Alberta companies export their products and services around the world, it creates jobs and generates economic growth and diversification here at home.”
Darryl Nelson, CEO of Nelson Environmental Remediation, says he sees the benefits of the program.
“Many of us Alberta SMEs have developed world-class skill sets, yet struggle with the cost and complexity of delivering this home-grown, hard-earned value abroad,” he said. “Support from our province is crucial for us to overcome the risks and challenges of the export market and reap the rewards that follow. This is a win-win-win for SMEs, the Alberta government, and all Albertans.”
Mike Holden, Chief Economist and Acting Vice President of Alberta, Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters also sees the three program as beneficial to making small companies big companies.
“The key to long-term economic growth and diversification in Alberta is for companies to have the tools and assistance they need to expand into new markets,” he said. “We want to see Alberta’s small companies become large companies and this program will help drive that success.”
The new export programs are expected to launch in the fall of 2016, with applications for the Export Support Fund opening on Oct. 1.
Contact edt.aeep@gov.ab.ca for more information about the Alberta Export Expansion package.
