Administered by Government of Alberta · Last verified: July 2026
This grant rewards small and medium-sized Alberta companies that spend on research and development, regardless of industry. It pays 8% on R&D spending up to your base level and an enhanced 20% on spending above your two-year average, on up to $4 million of annual R&D spending. It is claimed through the corporate tax system rather than a separate application.
You claim this on your tax return, so the money comes back as a lower tax bill or a refund after you file. If you missed it in a past year, you can often still recover it by adjusting a prior return.
Take the 3-minute quiz to find out, and see every other Canadian program you qualify for at the same time.
Check my eligibilityAlberta Innovation Employment Grant (IEG) is generally open to incorporated businesses, in Alberta, that carry out research and development. Confirm the full criteria on the official program page before applying.
The estimated value is 8% to 20% of eligible R&D spending, on up to $4 million per year. The actual amount depends on your eligible costs, the program's budget, and approval.
Claimed on a return, so a missed year can usually be recovered by amending. How far back depends on whether you file personally or as a corporation; confirm the eligible years with your accountant.
1. Confirm your firm has under $50 million in taxable capital 2. Track eligible R&D expenditures that also qualify for federal SR&ED 3. File Schedule 29 with your AT1 corporate return 4. Wait for CRA verification of qualifying expenses
3.5% to 30% of eligible R&D costs
TAX CREDIT12% of eligible capital costs, up to $175 million per project
TAX CREDIT22% or 30% refundable credit on eligible Alberta production costs