As Alberta moves through the mid-2020s, early signs indicate that 2026 and 2027 could be transformative years for small, locally owned businesses across the province. After several cycles of economic adjustment, digital adoption, and evolving consumer expectations, Alberta’s entrepreneurs are entering a period defined less by recovery and more by opportunity.
On the Edge of Local Business Renaissance
Across Alberta’s 8 largest cities — Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer, Lethbridge, Airdrie, Fort McMurray, Medicine Hat, and Grande Prairie — data shows small businesses make up approximately 95% of all enterprises, employing more than a third of the private-sector workforce (1). Recent trends suggest that growth will continue, particularly in sectors such as hospitality, personal services, and specialty retail, as urban populations expand and consumer spending increases.
Forecasts from ATB Financial predict continued annual business growth of around 1.5% in Alberta over the next two years, suggesting that 2026–2027 could see record numbers of new small-business openings (2). Combined with a rise in consumer interest in local shopping, these trends point toward strong opportunities for visibility-driven growth.
Three Trends Shaping 2026–2027
- Consumers are prioritizing local spending.
A 2024 survey by the Calgary Chamber of Commerce found that 70% of Albertans actively seek to support local businesses whenever possible (3). Younger adults, in particular, increasingly view local shopping as an ethical and community-focused choice. - Digital visibility is essential.
Alberta’s Digital Economy Program has already helped over 8,700 small businesses improve their online presence, with many reporting increased sales and customer engagement as a result (4). Businesses that optimize discoverability now will enter 2026 with a significant advantage, especially in competitive urban markets like Calgary and Edmonton. - Entrepreneurial growth is strong.
According to Business Link and provincial reports, Alberta continues to attract new business registrations at a steady pace across Calgary, Edmonton, and emerging markets like Fort McMurray and Grande Prairie (5). This ensures a competitive, dynamic small-business landscape — but also increases the need for platforms that connect businesses with local customers efficiently.
Looking Ahead: Opportunity for 2026–2027
By 2026, residents in Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer, Lethbridge, Airdrie, Fort McMurray, Medicine Hat, and Grande Prairie will expect streamlined ways to explore local offerings. Rapidly growing cities such as Calgary and Edmonton may see new cafés, boutiques, and service providers go unnoticed for months without proper visibility. Platforms like Alberta’s Best help ensure these businesses are discovered quickly, connecting them with communities eager to support them.
Entering 2027, Alberta’s small businesses that invest in visibility, reputation, and digital tools will likely see measurable advantages:
- Greater customer loyalty
- Increased foot traffic and online engagement
- Stronger competitive positioning
- Long-term sustainable growth
Communities that support local businesses now are not only strengthening neighborhood economies but also helping ensure Alberta’s entrepreneurial sector thrives for years to come.
Sources:
1. https://everythinggp.com/2024/10/29/business-booming-in-alberta-province-says/
2. https://www.atb.com/company/insights/the-twenty-four/number-of-active-businesses-in-alberta-december-2024/
3. https://calgarychamber.com/whats-new/release-calgary-chamber-releases-small-business-big-impact-policy/
4. https://digitalmainstreet.ca/digital-economy-program-wrap-up-over-8700-small-businesses-supported-across-alberta/
5. https://lethbridgenewsnow.com/2025/06/25/province-announces-investment-for-small-and-medium-sized-businesses/
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