Small Businesses in Alberta: The Heart of Every Community

If there’s one thing Alberta knows, it’s how to build something from the ground up. Whether it's a ranch, a tech startup, a coffee shop, or a service-based side hustle, this province is full of people with big dreams, practical know-how, and a whole lot of grit.

Small businesses in Alberta are doing more than just staying afloat. They’re creating jobs, building community, and bringing character to every corner of the province.

From the mountains to the prairies and everywhere in between, Alberta’s small businesses are showing us what it means to work hard, lead with heart, and keep showing up — no matter what.

Why Small Businesses Matter in Alberta ❤️

When you think of the heartbeat of a town or city, it’s rarely the shopping malls or big-box stores that come to mind. It’s the local bakery that knows your name. It’s the family-run mechanic who fits you in last minute. It’s the creative studio that turns ideas into reality.

Small businesses do more than just sell products or services. They keep our communities strong and connected.

Here’s what they bring to the table:

✔️ Local jobs that build real livelihoods

Small businesses account for more than 95 percent of all businesses in Alberta. That means when you support a local shop, you’re helping someone pay their mortgage, hire a team, or keep food on the table.

✔️ Personality and presence in every community

From Calgary’s Beltline to Red Deer’s downtown core to a family-run farm store in rural Alberta, small businesses give each place its unique feel.

✔️ Generosity in action

Small business owners are often the first to sponsor the local hockey team, donate to a silent auction, or stay open late for a customer in a pinch. They show up for their communities every single day.

The Reality Behind the Scenes 💬

Running a small business in Alberta is rewarding, but let’s not sugar-coat it — it’s also tough.

• Many business owners are facing real challenges, including:

• Rising costs and tight margins

• Finding and keeping great people

• Adapting to tech and digital demands

• Balancing family life with business needs

• Navigating economic uncertainty

And still, they keep going. They keep showing up early, staying late, and figuring it out one decision at a time.

That kind of resilience deserves more than recognition. It deserves support.

How You Can Support Local (Even in Small Ways) 🛍️

You don’t have to spend big to make a big difference. Every little bit of support helps local businesses thrive.

Here are a few simple things you can do:

⭐ Leave a positive review

Takes five minutes, costs nothing, and means everything to a small business owner.

📱 Share a post or tag them on social media

Help them reach new customers just by showing love online.

💬 Tell your friends and family

Word of mouth is still one of the most powerful marketing tools.

🧾 Choose local when you can

Whether it’s your morning coffee or your next service provider, look locally first.

To Alberta’s Small Business Owners: We See You 🙌

If you’re reading this and you’re one of the amazing humans behind a small business, here’s your reminder:

You’re doing something incredible.

You’re solving problems, supporting your team, building something meaningful, and contributing to the soul of your community.

Yes, it’s hard. But it’s also important. What you’re doing matters more than you know.

There’s something special about Alberta’s small business community. It’s full of makers, doers, creatives, tradespeople, visionaries, and leaders who believe in doing good work and taking care of their people.

If you’re a business owner, keep going. You’re not alone. And if you’re someone who wants to support local, keep showing up. Your support goes further than you think.

We’re proud to be part of this community and even prouder to support the people who make it so strong.

Need help growing your small business in Alberta? Whether it’s team planning, HR support, or workplace culture, we’re here to help. People-first, always. Let’s build something great — together.