The Rural Alberta Advantage: Business in the County
The County of St. Paul is open for business. Below is information that may be helpful when looking to start a business, grow a business, learn more about tax cuts or even look into what major projects are happening.
Business Information and Articles
St. Paul/ Elk Point Regional Economic Development Alliance (STEP) is a regional economic development partnership that identifies, plans, manages, and advocates for projects and initiatives. STEP represents several communities from the County of St. Paul, located northeast region of Alberta, 200 km east of Edmonton. The region is very diversified with a strong Agriculture industry complemented with Tourism, Oil/Gas and Manufacturing. The Town of St. Paul is the major business center in the County, which also includes the Town of Elk Point, and the Summer Village of Horseshoe Bay. Link to website
What's in the County of St. Paul? -- This short video will show why it's a great place to work, invest, live and play.
Starting a Business (Canada Government Guide)
Starting a Business (Alberta Government information)
Small Business Resources (Alberta Government link)
The value of Major Projects in the Region was $29,221,000,000 in 2017. Learn more about our regional major projects here.
The Alberta Small Business Tax Advantage
Alberta maintains the lowest overall tax regime in Canada, with no provincial sales tax, health premium or payroll tax. Albertans across all income ranges will continue to pay the lowest overall taxes when compared to other provinces.
Alberta's Small Business Tax Rate
Alberta’s general corporate income tax rate is currently 8%, the lowest among Canadian provinces. The rate was reduced from 12% by the Job Creation Tax Cut. Alberta's small business tax rate is 2% (July 2023).
Funding & Financing
Starting and growing a business is both a rewarding and challenging experience. These funding options are available for business owners to create opportunity.
Community Futures
Community Futures provides a variety of customized, affordable loan options for small business owners and entrepreneurs in rural Alberta, ranging from $500 to $150,000. They also provide free business advice and counseling, low-cost business coaching and business development programs and exceptional tips and tools.
Futurpreneur Canada
The only national, non-profit organization that provides financing, mentoring and support tools to aspiring business owners aged 18-39.
Economic Development Funding & Grants
The Alberta Government has funding opportunities and programs that you may be eligible for. Find out more about publicly funded grant programs related to agribusiness, workforce development, innovation and commercialization, cultural industry and export support grants.
Local Chambers of Commerce
Our region is a thriving and welcoming place ripe with opportunity for business. See more from our local Chambers of Commerce.
St. Paul & District Chamber of Commerce
A board-governed, not-for-profit that believes free enterprise and ethical business practices are the foundation of economic well-being in our community.
Elk Point & District Chamber of Commerce
Helping to enhance growth in the community through positive advocacy and networking.
Mallaig Chamber of Commerce
Encouraging growth in the Mallaig community through networking, promotion and encouraging local investment.
