Excerpt: “Navigating the grant application process begins with understanding how it all works. There are many types of grants, each with their own eligibility criteria and application procedures. Governments at various levels offer support, as do private and non-profit organizations. Grants can be sector-specific, focusing on industries like technology, healthcare, or agriculture, or designed for specific types of businesses, such as woman-owned or minority-owned enterprises.

The key to success in applying for small business grants lies in identifying the right opportunities for your specific business needs and goals. Take the time to research and understand the available grants and the organizations offering them. Look for grants that cater to your industry, your business model, and your future trajectory.”

Find help: Contact Okotoks Economic Development at ecdevokotoks@okotoks.ca to get connected to grant supports.

Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/melissahouston/2024/02/08/unlocking-the-power-of-small-business-grants/

This month's spotlight:
Boost Your Business with the Business Visitation Program

Why Join?

1. Tailored Support: Get personalized advice and resources specific to your business needs.
2. Access Resources: Connect directly with grants, training, and networking opportunities.
3. Make Your Voice Heard: Share your challenges and help shape local economic policies.
4. Stay Informed: Gain insights into trends and opportunities to keep your business ahead.
5. Build Connections: Strengthen relationships with local economic developers and other businesses.

How It Works

1. Schedule a Visit: We work around your schedule for a quick, hassle-free meeting.
2. Share Your Insights: Discuss your business goals, challenges, and ideas.
3. Get Tailored Support: Receive a customized plan with resources and follow-up support.
4. Stay Connected: Ongoing updates and opportunities to ensure your business thrives.

Get Started Today!

Call us at 403-938-8052 or email us at ecdevokotoks@okotoks.ca to schedule your business visit! Let’s work together to grow your business and strengthen our local economy!

We are thrilled to welcome The Aisle Bubble Tea & Cafe to the Okotoks business community! They are located at 1300 Village Lane unit 10 (Village Lane mall). This new locally-owned businesses offers bubble tea, coffee, desserts and snacks. Check it out today! 

Log in to your social to earn more: Facebook & Instagram

Check out our new "eco-nomic" section for tips on how to integrate eco-friendly practices into your business to save money and benefit the environment! This month, let's learn about air quality!

Tips to Enhance Okotoks’ Air Quality!

Check out the following actions your business can take to positively impact our community’s air quality:

• Encourage your staff to use active transportation when possible. This includes walking, biking, shared e-scooters, carpooling or using Okotoks Transit!
• Learn more about the energy efficiency of your building by borrowing a Do-It-Yourself Home Energy Audit Kit from the Town! Get yours at okotoks.ca/energykits
• Save money and reduce emissions by making your business fleet more fuel efficient. This includes regular maintenance, properly inflated tires and not leaving vehicles idling.
• Keep up with proper maintenance on your air handling and exhaust systems.

For more information on Okotok’s Air Quality visit okotoks.ca/our-air

Check out Okotoks’ Air Quality in real time!

Okotoks has a new Portable Air Monitoring Laboratory Truck located in the bus loop between Okotoks Junior High School and Percy Pegler School. The truck will be on-site until July 2025, and will monitor and report on outdoor air quality in Okotoks in real-time using the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI). Monitoring data from the truck can be found at craz.ca/monitoring

Okotoks is Idle Free!

Is idling a problem in front of your business? We have new “Our Community is Idle Free” signage available free of charge for your business to remind Okotoks residents to turn off their engines. If you’re interested in obtaining a sign, please email environment@okotoks.ca.