As the world faces shifting trade dynamics and tariff threats, businesses are seeking new avenues to get their products and services to market. In Alberta, innovators and entrepreneurs are looking beyond cities — and borders — to secure long-term growth.
Amidst uncertainty comes opportunity, and local companies are capitalizing on this push for diversification through initiatives like the Trade Accelerator Program (TAP) Alberta and trade missions to international markets.
“With our biggest trade partnership under stress, it’s more important than ever that local companies expand into new markets,” said Shona Reilly, Director of Trade, Calgary Economic Development.
“Diversifying our trade relationships is a huge opportunity — one that will mitigate risk and make our economy stronger and more resilient. Whether you’ve never considered exporting or you're ready to break into new regions, our team is here to help you expand your business with purpose and ease.”
Launched in 2018 in partnership with the Government of Alberta, TAP prepares Alberta businesses for international expansion with expert mentorship, tailored export strategies and critical market insights.
“Alberta is a place where small businesses can grow, and our government is proud to support them along the way. Congratulations to each business who has succeeded thanks to the Trade Accelerator Program and seen growth in their businesses,” said Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration at the Government of Alberta, Joseph Schow.
“Thank you to Calgary Economic Development for the work they have done to deliver this valuable program. Because of them and the hard work of business owners, Alberta is reaching more international markets and growing the economy and workforce here at home.”
How local companies can find national and international success
Through trade services offered at Calgary Economic Development (CED), local companies can access programming beyond the TAP classroom, joining targeted trade missions and events like the recent Trade Talks to unlock opportunities in new markets.
According to the Government of Canada, Canada’s current 15 free trade agreements cover 61 per cent of the world’s GDP and open markets to 1.5 billion consumers worldwide. This strategic advantage gives Calgary and Alberta access to more export opportunities and a growing consumer base.
In 2024, TAP generated 42 trade deals — amounting to more than $11 million in revenue — with almost two-thirds sending Alberta products beyond North America.
This year alone, local companies have landed over $50 million in trade deals in markets ranging from the UAE and India, to Italy, Australia and Chile.
Celebrating the best in the export business
At the Fifth Annual Calgary Economic Development Export Awards on Nov. 27, six local companies were celebrated for their export success in 2025. These winners — and their fellow nominees — represent the best of Alberta’s entrepreneurial spirit, driving innovation and growth across industries and borders.
Here’s a look at this year’s winners and nominees:
Exporter of the Year: To an Alberta company that demonstrated significant international market penetration.
Winner: ZeroSound Systems Inc.
ZeroSound Systems Inc. expanded rapidly with noise cancellation technology deployed in Chile, Australia, Germany and Italy, securing high-value contracts and global partnerships.
Nominees include: Naturemary, ZeroKey, DatFrame
Export Innovation Award: To a company that displayed outstanding innovation in their business plans and export strategies.
Winner: Sultech Global
Sultech Global was recognized for commercializing patented micronized sulfur technology and rapidly scaling global partnerships, including a major UAE manufacturing facility.
Nominees include: Techjutsu, LCO Technologies, Upzoids
Exporter of the Year - Beyond YYC: To an Alberta company, outside of Calgary, that demonstrated outstanding export growth in bringing Alberta products and services to global markets.
Winner: MWDPlanet and Lumen Corporation
MWDPlanet and Lumen Corporation turned Alberta expertise into international success, signing contracts across multiple European markets and deepening global relationships.
Nominees include: Bumby Wool, Bukwildz Distillery
Export Plan of the Year: To an Alberta company who established the most comprehensive export plan of the year.
Winner: ResVR
ResVR built a comprehensive, actionable export strategy that sets a benchmark for Alberta businesses expanding internationally.
Nominees include: Jasper PIM, Big Guns Energy Services Inc., Guardian Telecom LTD.
Most Engaged Alumni: To a TAP graduate who has remained actively involved in the program, and continues to contribute to the growth of international Alberta businesses.
Winner: Naturemary
Naturemary continues to demonstrate an ongoing commitment to the TAP community, serving as an alumni speaker, hosting major events and championing Alberta exports.
Nominees include: Summit Dogwear, MRO Electronics Supply LTD., Memory Anchor
Trade Mission Champion: To an individual or company that has leveraged international trade missions to open new markets, build strategic relationships and created lasting economic impact for Alberta.
Winner: ZeroKey
ZeroKey leveraged trade missions to drive real export growth, winning the Innovation World Cup and building strategic partnerships across North America, Europe and Asia.
Nominees include: Righteous Gelato, GLJ Inc., Absolute Imaging Inc.
Across all award categories, every nominee has made a significant impact in their sectors, demonstrating Alberta’s strength in innovation, strategic planning and global engagement.
Local access to export resources to level up in 2026
Earlier this year, the Government of Alberta provided a $2.8 million boost to TAP, ensuring that Alberta companies have the tools, networks and confidence to pursue international markets and drive long-term growth.
TAP is expected to reach up to 650 additional Alberta companies with this five-year investment and has supported over 550 companies to date.
As part of this expanded support, CED is launching a new program in 2026 called Level Up — designed to help TAP alumni take their exporting ambitions even further.
Level Up will include:
- Sector-specific and market-specific trade programming
- Online tools and curated resources
- The ongoing Global Trade Classroom Series
This advanced stream will provide targeted, high-value support to help Alberta businesses navigate the increasingly complex global trade landscape.
With help from initiatives like TAP, Alberta companies are proving they have what it takes to compete in the global market.
Learn more about Calgary Economic Development’s trade services – including the Trade Accelerator Program (TAP) and upcoming trade missions.
