Calgary Economic Development and the Alberta government have launched a new province-wide program aimed at helping businesses expand internationally and reduce their reliance on individual markets amid ongoing trade uncertainty.
The free Level Up program combines online learning, expert-led workshops and one-on-one mentorship to provide Alberta businesses with market intelligence and support as they pursue opportunities in international markets.
Program builds on existing export support
Funded by the Alberta government and delivered by Calgary Economic Development, Level Up builds on the Trade Accelerator Program, which helps companies assess their export readiness and develop export plans. While the existing program provides a foundation for companies looking to export, Level Up is intended to provide more market-specific knowledge, sector expertise and guidance for businesses entering more complex international markets.
The program also brings resources from government and organizational partners together through a single platform, with the aim of making it easier for companies to identify and access trade-related support as they expand internationally.
"Businesses today are being asked to navigate a much more complex trade environment than they were even a few years ago. Level Up was built to give Alberta companies a clearer path forward to accelerate their international expansion – which also strengthens our economy here at home. When local businesses secure new customers, enter new markets or grow their exports, that translates into new investment, stronger revenues and more jobs in our community," said Brad Parry, president and CEO of Calgary Economic Development and CEO of Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund.
The program comes as Alberta businesses face what the organizations describe as continued global trade volatility and uncertainty. Level Up is intended to help companies build relationships with customers in multiple countries and reduce dependence on any single market.
Calgary businesses expanding beyond U.S.
The launch follows growth in Calgary exports to markets outside the United States. According to the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, Calgary had the largest increase in exports to non-U.S. markets among major Canadian cities between 2024 and 2025.
Calgary Economic Development said businesses supported through its trade services secured 45 trade deals in 2025, generating $60 million in trade revenue across 21 countries on six continents. It said the share of trade deals involving the U.S. was the lowest on record for the organization.
"Alberta competes on the global stage, and it is thanks to the innovation, expertise and ambition of entrepreneurs who call our province home. Our government wants to see these businesses succeed because they are the job creators who keep Alberta the best place to live and work. That's why we are investing in programs that help Alberta businesses reach new markets, grow their exports and unlock new opportunities. Thank you to our delivery partner, Calgary Economic Development, for helping businesses across Alberta take their next step toward global growth," said Joseph Schow, minister of jobs, economy, trade and immigration for the Alberta government.
Level Up is available to Alberta businesses across all sectors. Partners supporting the program include the Business Development Bank of Canada, Jori Logistics, Alberta Chambers of Commerce, Make More Creative and Top Draw.
Businesses and trade organizations cite international growth
The program is also being positioned as a continuation of trade support that has helped Alberta companies pursue customers outside Canada.
"Building industry-leading indoor location technology right here in Calgary was only half the battle. Earning the trust of a plant manager on the other side of the world was the other half. The Trade Accelerator Program (TAP) opened doors in Europe and Asia, helping us reach international customers faster than we could have on our own. Today, our technology runs on factory floors in more than 40 countries. Level Up is an exciting program that will help more Alberta companies bring local innovation to the global stage," said Matthew Lowe, CEO and founder of ZeroKey.
Edmonton Global said the program is intended to provide companies with sector-specific programming, tools and training as they pursue international expansion.
"Level Up reflects Edmonton Global's commitment to working alongside ecosystem partners across Alberta to deliver consistent, high-quality trade support. Through targeted sector programming, practical tools and expert-led training, the program gives local companies a clear path to scale into international markets," said Daryn Edgar, CEO of Edmonton Global.
Stephanie Gross, founder and CEO of Bumby Wool, said programs such as the Trade Accelerator Program and Level Up have supported the company's international growth.
"Bumby Wool has served customers across six continents, and a significant part of that growth traces back to programs like these. Through TAP and Level Up, Alberta entrepreneurs get access to each other, to education, to real tools for connecting and communicating, and to a team that genuinely shows up," said Gross.
The Alberta Chambers of Commerce said it is partnering with Calgary Economic Development on the initiative and welcomed the provincial government's investment in the program.
"The Alberta Chambers of Commerce is proud to partner with Calgary Economic Development on the Level Up initiative and welcomes the investment from Alberta's government into the program. Alberta businesses thrive when they have access to the right connections, resources, and opportunities to grow beyond their local markets. Together, we are strengthening pathways for businesses to expand across provincial borders, develop new partnerships and access new markets. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to supporting Alberta businesses as they grow, flourish, and contribute to a stronger and more connected Canadian economy," said Shauna Feth, president and CEO of the Alberta Chambers of Commerce.
