Alberta

The New Engine of Canada’s Economic Growth

Over the past decade, Alberta has had Canada’s highest annual rate of economic growth at 3.5%—fuelled by its abundant oil and natural gas reserves, traditional strengths in agriculture and forestry and a rapidly-growing manufacturing base. From its natural resources to its skilled work force and booming economy, Alberta offers a great environment for business and families and is a magnet for skilled workers from around the world.

Business Environment

• Lowest overall taxes in Canada—no provincial sales tax, no general capital or payroll taxes
• No provincial debt and a business-friendly government committed to reducing red tape
• A record 500,000 new jobs created between 1998 and 2008
• A consistently higher investment per capita among Canadian provinces—In 2008, investment per capita was $24,267, more than double the Canadian average, with total investment reaching $87 billion
• Exports of goods and services have increased 250% between 1998 and 2008, reaching $117.6 billion
• Increased investment in oil sands, utilities, information and communications technologies, manufacturing and business services is expected to remain steady for the foreseeable future

Workforce

• Highly skilled and educated workforce that boasts the lowest unemployment rate in Canada at 3.6%
• Highest labour force participation rate among the provinces at 74.7%, 6.9% higher than the national average

Other Key Advantages

• At 3.5 million, Alberta has the fastest-growing population nationally
• Strong R&D advantage supported by world-class universities and award winning research facilities including the Alberta Research Council, Edmonton Research Park and the Advanced Technology Center
• Publicly administered and funded health care system that guarantees universal access to necessary hospital and medical services
• Lowest tax on gasoline among provinces and among the lowest property taxes in Canada

Sector Strengths

Look Who's Investing in Alberta

Visit the Competitive Advantages page for more information on the Centres of Excellence and Innovation found in Alberta.

Major Cities

• Calgary (AB)
• Edmonton (AB)

Publications

• Alberta Provincial Profile
• Alberta Investment Newsletter
• Help Viewing Alternate Formats

Provincial Incentives

• Taxes/Rebates

For More Information

• Investing in Alberta
• Government of Alberta
• Canada Business Services