Business Development Incentive Program

Thank you for your interest in the City of Fort Saskatchewan's Business Development Incentives Program. We are not currently accepting applications, but we will update this site as soon as new information becomes available. The Economic Development team will also share updates through our e-newsletter and social media channels.

For questions or further details, please email ecdev@fortsask.ca.


The City of Fort Saskatchewan Business Development Program offers five unique incentives that were developed, in partnership with local business, to help accelerate the growth and development of small businesses and assist commercial property owners improve their property.

Business Development Incentives Policy and Procedure

List of Available Business Incentives

Incentive

Max Funding

% of Eligible Expenses

Export Development Incentive

The Export Development Incentive is designed to assist Resident Small Businesses gain access to international markets for their products and services.

$5,000 50%

Small Business Education

The Small Business Education Grant helps resident small business owners develop entrepreneurship skills through educational programs, courses, seminars, conferences, or workshops.

$500

50%

Small Business Equipment and Technology

The Small Business Equipment and Technology Incentive encourages resident small business owners to invest in equipment and technology that will increase efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness for their business. 

$5,000

50%

Small Business Marketing

The Small Business Marketing Incentive assists resident small businesses improve the quality and effectiveness of their marketing. 

$5,000

50%

Storefront Improvement

The Storefront Improvement Incentive encourages business owners and commercial property owners to enhance their commercial storefront.

$10,000

50%

Funding

Incentive funding will be allocated on a case-by-case basis subject to the approval of the Business Development Incentive Review Committee, until the budget has been spent or the program year has ended. Submitting an application does not guarantee a funding or a specific funding amount. All project proposals are subject to a comprehensive review of application and required information, and must reflect the spirit and intent of each grant.

Eligibility

Each incentive has its own unique requirements, however generally the incentives are available to business owners with a Resident Business Licence and/or owners of commercial property located in Fort Saskatchewan.

FAQs

Am I required to use local contractors when applying for any of the Business Development Incentives?

No. While we encourage businesses to shop local by using other local business, we want to ensure that applicants have the ability to seek out the most competitive quotations for their projects.

Why aren't advertising fees eligible for the Small Business Marketing Incentive?

The objective of the Small Business Marketing Incentive is to assist small businesses with improving the quality and effectiveness of their marketing not the quantity. Funding is intended for creation and development marketing content, not for advertising fees. As an example, the cost associated with the creation of a website or the development of a promotional video would be eligible however the cost associated with website hosting and maintenance or airtime on television would not be eligible.

For the Storefront Improvement Incentive, I plan on performing some of the work myself. Can I submit my labour as an eligible expense?

No. While you are permitted to perform work yourself, any labour done yourself or provided in-kind is an ineligible expense.

Are software licence fees eligible under the Small Business Equipment & Technology Incentive?

Yes, some software licence fees may be eligible, however the fees would only by eligible for a period of 12 consecutive months.

Are computers eligible for the Small Business Equipment & Technology Incentive?

Computers may be eligible, however it is critical for the applicant to demonstrate how the computers would be specialized for business and how the computers will increase efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness of the business.

Are signs eligible for the Storefront Improvement Program?

Signs may be included as part of an overall storefront improvement, however applications that are exclusively for storefront signs will not be considered.

Note that signs may also be eligible under the Small Business Marketing Incentive as part of a strategic Marketing Project.

I am the owner of home based business. Am I eligible for the Storefront Improvement Incentive?

No. Only commercial property is eligible for the Storefront Improvement Incentive.

I lease space for my business. Am I eligible for the Storefront Improvement Incentive?

Yes, as long as you have the approval of the property owner.

I have a project that would qualify under two Incentives. Can I apply for both?

You are permitted to submit applications for more than one incentive, however you would only be eligible to receive one incentive.

Can I receive more than one Incentive?

Business owners and commercial property owners are only eligible to receive one incentive every three years. If you receive a incentive in 2018, you would not be eligible for another grant until 2021.

The only exception is the Small Business Education Incentive.

Recipients of a Small Business Education Incentive would be eligible for another Business Development Program Incentive, however they would not be eligible for another Small Business Education Incentive for three years.

Program Recipients

2024
2024 Recent Program Recipients
Business NameIncentive CategoryProject DescriptionCity's ContributionPrivate ContributionTotal Cost
Akashic Professional Bookkeepers Equipment and Technology Virus software, scanner, monitor, printer, security, etc.  $5,000.00 $6,120.00  $11,120.00 0
Beyond Diversity Inc. Equipment and Technology PointerPro assessment software.  $3,788.95  $1,711.05 $5,500.00
Creative Canvas Equipment and Technology Kiln Purchase for pottery to allow expansion of services.   $2,479.60 $2,479.59 $4,959.19
CSN Fort Sask Equipment and Technology ATLAS PVL14 - 14,000lbs 4Post Lift to increase efficiency, reduce power requirements and maintenance, and to allow service of electric vehicles.  $5,000.00 $17,235.83 $22,235.83 
Dreyco Equipment and Technology Mobile fire extinguisher refilling/recert equipment to expand service delivery.  $5,000.00 $10,000.00  $15,000.00 
Fort Foundation Equipment and Technology Computers, all-in-one printer, legal software.  $2,644.87 $3,425.10 $6,069.97
Fort Saskatchewan Eyecare Equipment and Technology Lens maker machine.  $5,000.00 $40,045.00   $45,045.00  
Fort Saskatchewan Lion's Club Storefront Improvement New windows, siding, and doors.  $5,000.00 (anticipated) $10,000 
(anticipated)
$15,000
(anticipated)
Gimmes Golf Marketing Website, signage, vinyl for windows to increase their visibility and promotion within the City.  $3,807.00  $7,294.00  $11,101.00
Ingram Custom Homes Equipment and Technology 2016 Southland Dump Trailer to increase productivity by decreasing load/unload times. $5,000.00 $5,900.00 $10,900.00
Miller's Ice Cream Equipment and Technology Shaved ice machine allows addition of products and reducing wait time for customers.  $4,028.44  $4,236.08 $8,264.52
Mind & Body Massage Therapy Equipment and Technology BioFlex Mini Port Profess Laser which will allow greater competitive advantage by offering additional services. $5,000.00 $9,365.00 $14,365.00
OK Tire Fort Sask Equipment and Technology  Larger 1R Compressor 10-HP intended to increase efficiency by increasing utilization time.  $5,000.00   $8,285.00 $13,285.00  
Reset Heating and Cooling Ltd  Equipment and Technology Ridgid SeeSnake Mini Camera Reel for enhanced inspection and  diagnostic times, and increased customer satisfaction. $5,000.00 $6,237.36 $11,237.36
Rose Hope  Marketing Marketing publicity/print.  $5,000.00  $6,854.00   $11,854.00  
The Fort Distillery  Export Development BCB Trade Show New York, intending to engage with liquor companies and distributors. $1,309.07 $2,690.93 $4,000.00
You Renew Wellness Studio   Education Pain Management Course. $199.60    $199.60  $399.20 
Voshell Architecture and Design, Inc.  Equipment and Technology NBS Chorus writing tech.  $3,000.00  $3,000.00  $6,000.00
2023
2023 Recent Program Recipients
Business NameIncentive CategoryProject DescriptionCity's ContributionPrivate ContributionTotal Cost
Dickeys Barbecue Pit Equipment and Technology Unox Combo Oven.  $5,000.00 $23,000.00 $28,000.00
Fort Gasland Equipment and Technology New 2-post 12,000lb hoist & installation.  $5,000.00 $4,583.86 $9,583.46
Karis Law Office Storefront New walkway and accessibility lift.   $3,263.25 $13,088.19 $16,324.44
Maid in Philippines Equipment and Technology Ninja Classic 500PSI Carpet Cleaner.  $2,365.00 $2,904.99 $5,269.99
Nexus Therapeutics Equipment and Technology Traction table, laser unit.  $5,000.00 $8,820.36  $13,820.36 
Simplicity Education Herbalist and Bodywork Course.  $500.00 $610.69 $1,110.69
Sweet K&A Bakery Equipment and Technology Double deck convection oven.  $5,000.00 $6,779.83  $11,779.83 
Switzer Financial Services Storefront Replace windows, updating signs.  $6,800.57  $4,962.53  $11,763.10
Tilted Toes Equipment and Technology ToeFX fungal infection treatment.  $1,485.00  $1,485.00  $2,970.00
Union Pub & Grill Storefront Construct an outdoor patio for 40+ people. $10,000.00 $35,000.00 $45,000.00
You Renew Wellness Studio Equipment and Technology Electric massage table.  $2,750.00 $2,750.00 $5,500.00
2022
2022 Recent Program Recipients
Business NameIncentive CategoryProject DescriptionCity's ContributionPrivate ContributionTotal Cost
AMS Services Equipment Specialty Zero-Turn Mower and Lawn Vacuum.  $3,384.98 $2,214.97 $5,599.95
ASAP Solutions Marketing New website design and platform for ecommerce, two-year detailed marketing plan, and possible rebranding.  $5,000.00 $7,000.00 $12,000.00
Benjamin Moore Fort Saskatchewan Equipment Hero Shaker Mixer to begin selling sample size paint jars. New computer to operate their tinters and shakers for improved reliability and efficiency.   $1,179.83 $1,129.16 $2,308.99
Dreamcatchers Gift & Art Gallery Storefront New signage, column cladding to improve aesthetics of recently purchased building.  $1,365.31 $6,134.69 $7,500.00
Fort Distillery Export Export Event (SIAL Canada Show) with Alberta Ag to showcase products and meet with distributors and importers from other countries to expand reach and market.  $860.41 $1,295.91 $2,156.32
Melanie Doderai - Violin Instruction Equipment Aerial Performance Rig and Speaker System to allow for aerial violin performances at larger venues and festivals.  $1,900.00 $1,989.99 $3,889.99
Pear Beauty Equipment Procell Microchanneling Therapy machine. This is not offered by any other companies in Fort Saskatchewan, giving a competitive advantage and increased business profitability.  $2,021.87 $10,097.68 $12,119.55
R. Tummy Full Restaurant inc. Equipment POS System including iPads, mounts, and software.  $757.93 $757.93 $1,515.85
Three Peaks Contracting Equipment Band Saw, Track Saw, Dust Extractor for custom cabinetry and wood working.  $1,838.98 $2,284.01 $4,122.99
Twice but Nice Storefront Front Façade: New sign with new logo, planters, accent paint.
Back Façade: New shed roof to protect donations and provide cover for volunteers, planters.
Doors: New paint for front and back entry doors. 
$9,794.55 $4,793.45 $14,588.00
1201983 AB. Ltd - M. Friel Agencies Storefront Amounts listed are only earmarked; still waiting on a completed application. $20,000.00 $20,000.00 $40,000.00
2021
2021 Recent Program Recipients
Business NameIncentive CategoryProject DescriptionCity's ContributionPrivate ContributionTotal Cost
Anytime Fitness Marketing Marketing Strategy Implementation & advertising new website $5,000.00 $5,512.00 $10,512.00
Atlantic Kitchen Storefront New awning signage, window trim painting $6,300.00 $6,300.00 $12,600.00
BB Studio Equipment Equipment for recording studio $1,988.78 $1,988.78 $3,977.56
Casilda Beauty Supplies Professional Service Professional service assistance related to application/ reporting for federal/provincial programs $1,000.00 $ - $1,000.00
Crawford Master Stylists Marketing Marketing Strategy Implementation & advertising $5,000.00 $5,485.86 $10,458.86
Eastgate Plaza Storefront New outdoor patio $10,000.00 $16,397.00 $26,397.00
Fine Light Designs Equipment Laser cutting machine $5,000.00 $10,246.00 $15,246.00
Fort Saskatchewan & District Chamber of Commerce Professional Service Professional service assistance related to application/ reporting for federal/provincial programs $1,000.00 $1,000.00 $2,000.00
Fort Saskatchewan Eyecare Professional Service Professional service assistance related to application/ reporting for federal/provincial programs $1,000.00 $3,000.00 $4,000.00
Givens LLP CPA Marketing Rebranding & Marketing Strategy $5,000.00 $50,000.00 $55,000.00
Great Clips Equipment POS & scheduling equipment $2,034.43 $2,034.43 $4,068.86
Handyman Electric Equipment Thermal imaging cameras, computer & software $1,318.88 $1,318.88 $2,637.76
Heartland Psychology Inc. Education Education course for therapy techniques $200.82 $200.82 $401.64
Ingram Custom Homes Equipment Skid Steer $5,000.00 $20,000.00 $25,000.00
Jehad Torbeih Professional Corporation Storefront Repaint, add outdoor lighting to multi-tenant building $11,387.50 $11,387.50 $22,775.00
Larry Morin Farm & Business Planning Equipment New computer $500.00 $500.00 $1,000.00
Legacy Jewellers Equipment Engraving machine & accessories $4,268.86 $4,268.86 $8,537.72
Marino's Plumbing & Gas Fitting Ltd. Professional Service Professional service assistance related to application/ reporting for federal/provincial programs $1,000.00 $1,625.00 $2,625.00
Maxx Physiotherapy Equipment Decompression/traction chair $5,000.00 $7,995.00 $12,995.00
Oakwood Property Management Professional Service Professional service assistance related to application/ reporting for federal/provincial programs $1,000.00 $3,000.00 $4,000.00
Occupational Therapy Assistant Equipment Computer & apps to assist children with little to no verbal speech $2,324.49 $2,324.49 $4,648.98
Pivotal Physiotherapy Equipment Shockwave Therapy Machine $5,000.00 $13,900.00 $18,900.00
Priority Wellness Equipment Specialized massage tables $3,199.96 $3,199.96 $6,399.92
Qualico Commercial Storefront Exterior renovation, new signage and lighting for 2 multi-tenant CRU buildings $15,500.00 $95,580.00 $111,080.00
Royal Catering Inc. Professional Service Professional service assistance related to application/ reporting for federal/provincial programs $1,000.00 $70.00 $1,070.00
Skin Effect Laser & Medical Aesthetics Professional Service Professional service assistance related to application/ reporting for federal/provincial programs $750.00 $ - $750.00
Smilemakers Dental Centre Professional Service Professional service assistance related to application/ reporting for federal/provincial programs $1,000.00 $ - $1, 000.00
Smilemakers Dental Centre Education Training for office staff $500.00 $500.00 $1,000.00
Smilemakers Dental Centre Marketing New awing signage $5,000.00 $5,450.00 $10,450.00
Superior Show Service Professional Service Professional service assistance related to application/ reporting for federal/provincial programs $1,000.00 $3,000.00 $4,000.00
The Barn Door Professional Service Professional service assistance related to application/ reporting for federal/provincial programs $1,000.00 $880.00 $1,880.00
The Fort Distillery Professional Service Professional service assistance related to application/ reporting for federal/provincial programs $1,000.00 $3,000.00 $4,000.00
The Fort Distillery Equipment Fully automatic cocktail bottling machine $5,000.00 $96,725.00 $101,725.00
Vivid Vision Professional Service Professional service assistance related to application/ reporting for federal/provincial programs $530.00 $ - $530.00
Total $115,803.72 $376,862.58 $492,666.30
2020
2020 Recent Program Recipients
Business NameIncentive CategoryProject DescriptionCity's ContributionPrivate ContributionTotal Cost
Alberta Communication Cable Services Marketing Marketing strategy, advertising & website upgrades $5,000.00 $14,000.00 $19,000.00
Alberta Communication Cable Services E-Commerce Social media marketing to promote E-Commerce on their website $999.97 $ - $999.97
Anytime Fitness E-Commerce E-Commerce website to sell memberships online $1,000.00 $221.14 $1,221.14
Associated Telecom E-Commerce Database set-up & online payment service $1,000.00 $6,510.00 $7,510.00
Be Free Fitness Marketing Website creation $500.00 $500.00 $1,000.00
Dominique Digital Equipment Computer equipment to create 4K videos $2,757.43 $7,757.42 $5,514.85
Fake and Bake Suntan Studios Equipment Computer & booking software $4,546.67 $4,546.66 $9,093.33
Fort Distillery E-Commerce Social media marketing to promote E-Commerce on their website $1,000.00 $ - $1,000.00
Fort Saskatchewan Acupuncture E-Commerce Created an online platform for booking and sales $995.85 $ - $995.85
Fort Saskatchewan Autobody Marketing Marketing strategy, advertising & signage $5,000.00 $15,550.00 $20,550.00
Green Pen Writing Services Marketing Marketing strategy, advertising & website upgrades $5,000.00 $9,750.00 $14,750.00
Integrity Land Inc Marketing Marketing Strategy Implementation & Re-branding $5,000.00 $18,500.00 $23,500.00
Little Caesars E-Commerce Local advertising promoting online ordering $1,000.00 $ - $1,000.00
Mackin Quality Construction Equipment Enclosed cargo trailer modified with workbench $3,841.82 $3,841.82 $7,683.63
Marble Slab E-Commerce Local advertising promoting online ordering $1,000.00 $ - $1,000.00
Master Cleaners E-Commerce Website design $1,000.00 $25.64 $1,025.64
Miller's Ice Cream Equipment Freezers and worktables $5,000.00 $5,618.68 $10,618.68
Modo Mio E-Commerce Revamp existing website with online ordering $935.99 $ - $935.99
Parikrama Massage & Wellness Inc. E-Commerce Local advertising promoting online booking $1,000 $100 $1,100
Pita Pit E-Commerce Local advertising promoting online ordering $1,000 $ - $1,000
Primary Heating Education Accounting courses $400 $400 $800
Primary Heating Equipment Box and pan brake $1,393.81 $1,393.81 $2,787.62
Quality Electric Marketing Marketing strategy, advertising & website rebuild $3,710.50 $3,710.50 $7,421
Royal Catering Inc. E-Commerce Website update & social media advertising $1,000.00 $358.75 $1,358.75
Royal Catering Inc. Marketing Marketing Plan development & advertising $4,712.50 $4,712.50 $9,425.00
Switzer Financial E-Commerce Website update to include online booking & associated advertising $1,000.00 $14,800.00 $15,800.00
The Barn Door E-Commerce Website design for online ordering $1,000.00 $145.15 $1,145.15
The Bear's Den Storefront New concrete stairs and patio glass $2,185.00 $2,185.00 $4,370.00
Tummy Full E-Commerce Website creation & app $750.00 $ - $750.00
Unfussy E-Commerce Online advertising for website promotion $1,000.00 $ - $1,000.00
Your Holistic Earth Marketing Marketing strategy, advertising & website upgrades $3,230.00 $3,230.00 $6,460.00
Total $67,959.54 $112,857.07 $180,816.61
2019
2019 Recent Program Recipients
Business NameIncentive CategoryProject DescriptionCity's ContributionPrivate ContributionTotal Cost
Urban Centre Plaza Storefront Improvement Installation of floor-ceiling windows on ground floor commercial space $10,000 $38,690 $48,690
Switzer Financial Services Storefront Improvement New siding for 2 commercial units $19,996 $20,000 $39,996
Vivid Vision Equipment & Technology Equipment to enhance services for children and non-verbal patients. $5,000 $7,000 $12,000
Prairie Fire Landscaping Equipment & Technology Landscaping equipment $5,000 $30,000 $35,000
Serenity Funeral Service Equipment & Technology Computer purchase & associated set-up fees $1,512 $1,512 $3,024
Fort Saskatchewan & District Chamber of Commerce Storefront Improvement Landscaping, sidewalk & outdoor features $7,785 $7,785 $15,570
Voshell Architecture Equipment & Technology Trade specific computer programs $5,000 $9,470 $14,470
Total $54,293 $114,457 $168,750