Business & local economy

Business services and information Business & local economy

Running your own business is challenging, even at the best of times. We’re here to make it easier for you. Here’s the information you need to enable your business success.

Youth Hiring Fair 2026

March 26, 1:30 – 6 p.m., Big Four Building, Stampede Park

Explore thousands of job opportunities and meet 80 employers at Calgary’s largest youth hiring event. If you are an employer looking for youth to hire, register at the link below. Free for all youth 15-24.

Learn more and register

Services for local businesses

  • Open a business in Calgary

    Opening a business in Calgary: This page provides general information on what you need to open a business in Calgary.

  • Business Experience Improvement Program

    The Business Approvals file managers are a one-stop shop for people interested in opening a small business.

  • Calgary's 5G Discovery Zone

    Enabling researchers, developers, and companies to develop and test new applications and technologies that leverage the benefits of 5G networks.

  • Support Local campaign

    Supporting the business community by making connections, sharing resources, and highlighting positive stories.

  • Planning tips for businesses

    Before you sign a lease or buy a property for your business, check the land use to make sure your business can operate there.

  • Support tech businesses

    A webinar about the programs in place to help businesses grow and thrive.

  • Home and small business webinars

    We have a variety of webinars to teach you about home renovations and opening businesses in Calgary.

  • Film friendly

    Being film friendly boosts our economy, creates jobs for local talent, and attracts more film and TV productions to Calgary.

  • Business Improvement Area

    Business Improvement Area (BIA): A BIA is a group of businesses, within a defined geographic area, that work together on local improvements and promote local economic development.

  • Recruit local young talent

    The Youth Employment Centre (YEC) offers free recruitment support to employers hiring youth aged 15–24.

  • Living Labs

    Living labs offer a simple process to make public spaces, transportation corridors and land more accessible.

Popular business license applications

  • Contractor

    Including builders, landscapers, general contractors and specialty trades

  • Restaurant or brewery

    Including breweries, restaurants and eateries

  • Retail

    Including retail goods stores, clothing, farmer's markets

Business Perspectives Panel

We do regular research with businesses to better understand the outlook and viewpoint of the business community. If you are a business owner, leader or manager, join our online business research panel, Business Perspectives.

Join the Business Perspectives Panel

Contact us