Community Economic Development Opportunities in Alberta

Abstract

The Canadian Community Economic Development Network (CCEDNet) and Momentum, a Calgary, Alberta based community economic development (CED) organization, have issued this brief in Alberta. The brief is directed to the Alberta government. The Government of Alberta is committed to investing in job creation, economic diversification, renewable energy, and being the best place to start and grow a small business. The innovative tools of community economic development (CED) can amplify these economic initiatives by enabling the creation of more social and co-operative enterprises, providing jobs for disadvantaged Albertans, and advancing community-owned renewable energy. The following three strategies can most benefit Albertans given the current economic challenges and opportunities in Alberta: Investing in a Community and Coop Business Secretariat, supported by the Ministry of Economic Development, and hosted at a community based agency. A focus on technical support and connecting businesses to capital and resources. Providing technical, regulatory, and financial support to community-owned start-ups and projects focused on renewable energy development. Creating a market exemption for everyday Albertans (unaccredited investors) to invest in local businesses, social enterprises and co-operatives, and ensuring they benefit from the Alberta Investor Tax Credit.