Small businesses are the backbone of Alberta’s economy, driving innovation, creating jobs, and strengthening community growth. To support these vital enterprises, Business Link has been a beacon of guidance and resources for entrepreneurs across the province for over 25 years.
Established in 1996, Business Link is a non-profit organization funded provincially by the Government of Alberta and federally through PrairiesCan. Its inception was spurred by the recognition of the challenges faced by small business owners in accessing the necessary tools and information to succeed. Over the years, Business Link has evolved into a comprehensive support system, offering a wide array of services tailored to the needs of Alberta’s entrepreneurs.
First and foremost, Business Link serves as a knowledge hub providing entrepreneurs and business owners with a wealth of information and guidance on various aspects of running a business. From start-ups trying to navigate business registration, permits and licensing to an established company looking to expand or introduce a new product or service, Business Link provides an abundance of support and resources to help small businesses thrive.
One of its core offerings is personalized one-on-one support with a Business Strategist. These advisors are seasoned professionals with extensive business experience, many of them still operating their own small business. Through in-person and virtual consultations, strategists address specific challenges and provide actionable solutions. These consultations cover a wide range of topics, from financial matters to marketing strategies and operational efficiency. The advice you receive is not just theoretical but practical and based on real-world experience.
In addition to personalized consultations, Business Link hosts a variety of workshops, webinars, and networking events designed to educate and connect entrepreneurs. These events cover a wide range of topics, including marketing strategies, financial management, and sourcing funding opportunities, providing invaluable insights to help businesses succeed.
In addition to these services, Business Link also offers access to market research tools, business templates, and online resources to help entrepreneurs make informed decisions and stay ahead of the competition. Business Link is an essential resource for accessing funding opportunities. They can help entrepreneurs navigate the complex world of grants, loans, and incentives available for businesses in Alberta.
With team members throughout the province and the use of multiple modalities to connect with clients (telephone, video conference, or in-person meetings), Business Link aims to be accessible to all Albertans, no matter where they are in the province. The organization assists around 5,000 clients a year. Roughly 10% of Business Link’s clients are Indigenous, and 20% are new to Canada. Geographically, about 1/3 of Business Link’s clients are from Edmonton, 1/3 from Calgary, and 1/3 from rural Alberta.
Business Link is not just an organization; it is a lifeline for many businesses in Alberta, providing knowledge, guidance, and support that are essential for success in today’s competitive environment. The organization’s commitment to providing personalized support and fostering a supportive community has made it a valuable asset to the province’s business ecosystem. As Alberta’s small businesses continue to navigate the challenges of today’s economy, Business Link stands ready to support them every step of the way.
Find out more about Business Link on their website here and see how they can assist your business today.