Business Experience Program

The Business Experience team is  a one-stop shop for people interested in opening a small business.

Everyone who applies for a business licence is assigned a Business Experience file manager. They review the initial application and make sure the appropriate permits are applied for. They help ensure all parts of the application are submitted, creating faster and more predictable outcomes.

The Business Experience file manager are your main point of contact to help you through the business licencing process. Guiding you through each step of the application and answering any questions you may have along the way.

Things to consider before starting your business: 

• What permits will you need?
• What information do you need to apply for a business licence?
• What City of Calgary inspections may be needed before opening your business? 
• Will you need special permissions from Alberta Health Services (AHS), Alberta Motor Vehicle Industry Council (AMVIC) or any other agencies? 

We’ve answered the most frequently asked questions about starting a business in Calgary for you.  

Interested in opening a small business? We have several home and small business webinars  available that answer many of the questions that you may have about opening a small business in Calgary. We recommend that you watch any webinars that we have available for the type of business you want to open before you submit your application. 
 
Throughout the year we host new webinars and post them online afterwards. Keep an eye on Calgary.ca/webinars for upcoming topics that we’ll be covering or to watch pre-recorded webinars.

Once you have gathered all required documents, you can apply for your licence in person at the Planning Service Centre, or online at apply.calgary.ca.

After submitting your business licence application, you will get a confirmation email summarizing your application. The confirmation email will include your Business Identification number (BID) and next steps. If you do not receive this email, please contact the Planning Services Centre.

Once we’ve reviewed your application, a file manager from the Business Experience team will be in touch to verify the information provided. This includes ownership, location and business activity, and will advise you on next steps.

The Business Experience team is a one-stop shop for people interested in opening a small business.  

Everyone who applies for a business licence is assigned a Business Experience file manager. They review the initial application and make sure the appropriate permits are applied for. They help ensure all parts of the application are submitted, creating faster and more predictable outcomes.

The Business Experience file manager are your main point of contact to help you through the business licencing process. Guiding you through each step of the application and answering any questions you may have along the way.