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Digital Economy Program
The Digital Economy Program (DEP) aims to assist small businesses in going online. This program, a collaboration between Business Link and Digital Main Street, will assist small companies in Alberta with digital transformations and eCommerce adoption. DEP is open to home-based or commercial small enterprises with less than 50 employees in Alberta. Supporting small businesses in a competitive environment is crucial when over 95 percent of enterprises in Alberta are small businesses. Joining the Digital Economy Program will allow you and your company to transform your online presence.
Small businesses that participate will receive FREE training on using and managing digital technologies critical to success in today’s competitive climate. The Digital Economy Program will provide you with the knowledge and skills you’ll need to develop your company’s digital footprint. Sign up now to take advantage of this opportunity for your small business! You’ll be assigned a Digital Service Squad consultant to assess your needs and create a work plan for you. Then it’s time for the magic to happen.
The Program is divided into two sections: Digital Service Squads, which assists businesses with digital transformation, and Shop Here powered by Google, which assists businesses with developing and managing online stores. Small firms can apply for free to join one or both programs.
What Are the ‘Eligible Businesses’?
Businesses must meet the following criteria to be eligible for the Digital Economy Program:
1. Small enterprises, whether they are home-based or commercial.
2. Alberta-based small enterprises with less than 50 employees (exceptions apply to some Indigenous businesses) (including self-employed business owners with no employees). Under this scheme, non-profits, charity trusts, and franchisees are not considered qualifying firms.
How Much Does it Cost to take Part? Who Is Responsible for the Program’s Funding?
Participation in the Program is free of charge for businesses. However, participating firms will be required to devote time to the Program, which may vary depending on your services. Your active participation is critical to your success. The Alberta government is funding this Program.
Who Pays for the Program?
Once approved, qualified businesses can join the Digital Economy Program for free. Participation is free of charge.
What Is the Overall Procedure for the Program?
Fill out an application for the Program that you believe best meets your needs. You will perform a digital assessment with a squad member once you have been accepted for the Digital Service Squad program to identify technologies for your digital adoption. Squad members will collaborate with you to set up and implement such technologies and solutions. If you’re interested in starting an online store with ShopHERE, fill out the form below. Once your application has been approved, you will work remotely with an eCommerce coordinator to construct your new site, which Google powers.
Who Is in Charge of the Program?
Business Link, an Alberta-based non-profit that assists small businesses in starting and growing, runs the Program. The awards are administered by Business Link and Digital Main Street, who also assist with program execution. Business Link will collaborate with Digital Main Street to support local Digital Service Squads to help give on-the-ground Squad support for the Digital Service Squad activations across the province.
When will I find out Whether I’ve been chosen?
The team will evaluate your eligibility once your application has been submitted. An eCommerce Coordinator will contact you within three business days about the ShopHERE powered by Google Program. After your eligibility has been assessed and a squad has been established in your location, a Digital Service Squad will contact you.
Why do I need to Register my Business in Alberta?
One of the funding arrangement’s prerequisites is that you have a registered business. Please contact the DMS Program Manager ([email protected]) for further information on business registration requirements for small enterprises in Indigenous areas.
What Are Legal Structures included in the Business? Is it necessary for me to be Incorporated to Apply?
The type of business you have (incorporated, single proprietorship, partnership, etc.) has no bearing on your eligibility. You are eligible to apply if your company has less than 49 employees and is registered in Alberta. This Program does not apply to non-profits, charitable trusts, or franchises.
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