Alberta isn’t just growing businesses — we’re launching global contenders.
With a $2.8 million boost from the Government of Alberta, more small- and medium-sized enterprises will gain the tools, mentorship and market access they need to scale internationally through Calgary Economic Development’s Trade Accelerator Program (TAP).
Amidst ongoing trade uncertainty, it’s a bold bet on Alberta-made innovation — and it’s set to deliver big returns in jobs, exports and economic growth.
Building on TAP’s success
Launched in Alberta in 2018, TAP helps local businesses prepare for international expansion by providing expert mentorship, tailored export strategies and critical market insights. Administered by Calgary Economic Development, the program has supported over 550 Alberta-based companies to date — many of which have grown to become global competitors in industries from clean tech to consumer products.
With this new five-year investment, TAP is expected to reach up to 650 additional Alberta companies, equipping them with the tools, networks and confidence to pursue international markets and drive long-term growth.
“With global markets shifting rapidly, Alberta’s small and medium-sized businesses need every advantage to stay ahead,” said Brad Parry, President and CEO, Calgary Economic Development.
“This support from the Government of Alberta invests in entrepreneurs’ big ideas and helps ensure that local businesses can access the tools and expertise they need to scale globally. Stronger trade capacity means stronger businesses — and a stronger, more resilient Alberta.”
Business owners report a stronger revenue stream following graduation from the program, with alumni reporting over 60 per cent revenue growth within 24 months of graduation.
In 2024 alone, TAP alumni generated 42 trade deals — amounting to over $11 million in revenue for Alberta businesses — with almost two-thirds sending products beyond North America, underscoring the program’s global impact.
“Increasing trade is a priority for our government, which is why we are helping small- and medium-sized businesses grow,” said Joseph Schow, Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration.
“More than ever, we need to diversify our global trade and give businesses the tools they need to succeed. In return Alberta will see more jobs, more investment, and a stronger economy with programs like this.”
Taking export to the next level
As part of this expanded support, Calgary Economic Development is also launching a new program in 2026 called Levelling Up — designed to help TAP alumni take their exporting ambitions even further.
Building on TAP’s foundation, Levelling Up will include:
- Sector-specific and market-specific trade programming
- Online tools and curated resources
- The ongoing Global Trade Classroom Series
This advanced stream will provide targeted, high-value support to help Alberta businesses navigate the increasingly complex global trade landscape.
Trade support is ‘pivotal’: TAP alumni
Local companies like naturemary, Rok Water Livestock Water Recycling and Zeno Renewables began as grassroots startups. With support through TAP, these businesses gained global exposure and successfully expanded into new markets such as China, the UA and Japan.
“Calgary Economic Development and the Government of Alberta have been pivotal in accelerating naturemary’s growth, innovation and global reach,” said Kapil Kalra, President and Co-Founder, naturemary.
“Their support empowers us to thrive, create jobs and elevate pain relief and wellness from Alberta to the world.”
Supporting local companies in their expansion plans is central to Calgary’s economic strategy, Uplook. While TAP is an accessible tool for companies to gain insights, support for their growth doesn’t end there.
After the program, alumni can gain access to a growing network of resources and opportunities that support continued growth. This includes trade missions with Calgary Economic Development, educational trade events, industry meetups and annual Export Awards – all designed to foster global competitiveness and new partnerships.
Whether it’s wellness products, sustainable energy or smart technology, Alberta-made businesses are gaining ground worldwide — and initiatives like TAP and Levelling Up are critical to sustaining that momentum.
Learn more about TAP and upcoming TAP cohorts here, and other ways Calgary Economic Development can support your business’ global goals here.
Calgary Economic Development doesn’t only help Alberta companies grow globally — we help global companies grow in Calgary. Discover why leading businesses choose to invest in the Blue Sky City here.
(Left to right) Kapil Kalra, President & Co-founder, naturemary; Brad Parry, president and CEO, Calgary Economic Development; Joseph Schow, Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration; and Sonia Mary Kalra, CEO & Co-founder, naturemary