Business & Investment
How can we help?
A Place to Build, Grow & Invest
The County of St. Paul is home to businesses of all sizes, from farms and family-run operations to companies working in energy, manufacturing, tourism, and other industries.
Whether you’re turning an idea into a business, growing an established operation, or looking for a place to invest, you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Local and regional organizations can help connect you with information, advice, funding opportunities, and the right people to talk to.
The County also works with regional partners to help strengthen the local economy and create new opportunities for businesses and communities.
Business & Investment
Start & Grow a Business
Starting a business comes with plenty of questions. From choosing a business structure and registering your business to finding permits, financing, and other support, there are resources available to help you get started.
Already in business? These resources can also help as you plan your next step, work through a challenge, or look for opportunities to grow.
Invest in the St. Paul Region
Looking for your next place to build, expand, or invest?
The County works with the St. Paul / Elk Point Economic Development Alliance (STEP) to support economic development across the region. STEP brings together the County of St. Paul, Town of St. Paul, Town of Elk Point, and Summer Village of Horseshoe Bay.
STEP provides regional information and resources for businesses and investors, including investment opportunities, site-selection information, transportation and infrastructure information, industry profiles, regional data, and community profiles.
Whether you’re exploring the region for the first time or already have plans taking shape, STEP can help connect you with the information you need.
Funding & Business Support
You don’t have to build your business alone. Local, provincial, and national organizations offer advice, mentoring, financing, training, and other resources for entrepreneurs and business owners.
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 Business Connections
Strong local connections can make a big difference when you’re running a business. Chambers of Commerce help bring businesses together through networking, advocacy, promotion, and involvement in the communities they serve.
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 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.
