The number of small businesses in Calgary is growing steadily, and entrepreneurship in the city is rising. Sole proprietorships make up 70% of the companies in Calgary, and with the pandemic shifting the way people work, that number may climb.
As the fourth largest city in Canada, Calgary offers numerous opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs to thrive. While many different types of businesses succeed in this city, the leading professional sectors in Calgary include:
- Aerospace & Logistics
- Agribusiness
- Creative Industries
- Energy & Environment
If you're an aspiring entrepreneur, looking to find a side hustle, or are seeking a new place to grow your business, keep reading to learn the benefits of working for yourself in Calgary.
Resources For Small Businesses
One reason small businesses and entrepreneurs thrive in Calgary is the support and resources available through the government. Assistance through incubators like Startup Calgary and Innovate Calgary gives small business owners the help they need to get their businesses up and running. These programs offer co-working spaces, financing, networking, training, and other vital aspects of business ownership.
Calgary is a city that embraces innovation and creativity and is the gateway to local and global markets. The median age in Calgary is 36, which means it is a city bustling with millennial professionals looking to make their mark on the world. Calgary's tourism industry also contributes heavily to the success of many of the city's small businesses, including transportation, travel, food, and consumer products.
The Canadian government constantly works on action plans to support local businesses and entrepreneurs. Including providing land for those in the production and processing sectors, tax breaks and incentives for growing companies, and loans and grants for start-ups.
Living (and Working) In Calgary
In a place like Calgary, where taxes are low, the cost of living is reasonable, and the job market is thriving, it's no surprise that the demand for apartments is also rising. Living close to the downtown hub is critical for small business owners, as it lets them authentically network and connect with their community. Calgary is ranked in the top ten of Canada's most walkable cities, which means many apartment residents can walk from their homes to their offices and co-working spaces.
Apartments like 3600 Brentwood Apartment Homes in Calgary offer spacious, open-concept floor plans that make working from home comfortable and easy. Many renters convert sunny corner alcoves or a second bedroom into a home office, so they can create and plan in a professional environment without ever leaving home. These apartments also make it easy for business owners to get to local libraries, cafes, restaurants, and other public spaces to hold meetings and network. People who live in popular apartment communities like 3600 Brentwood are also close to public transportation stops, making it even easier to move through the city for business. 3600 Brentwood is just minutes from the University of Calgary, making it a popular option for college students who want to live in the same city. They eventually plan to start their careers.
Starting a new business is no small feat and requires careful planning and execution. One of the most critical factors in starting a new business is the location and understanding the demand and local market of the area. Calgary is a great place to create a new business and a better place to live.
If you're planning to move to Calgary, schedule a 3600 Brentwood Apartment Homes tour today. These pet-friendly apartments in Calgary are just minutes from the heart of downtown and one of Canada's most vibrant business districts. Contact our leasing office today to learn more about Calgary, our availability, or to schedule a tour. We can't wait to help you find your new home where you can launch your career at 3600 Brentwood Apartment Homes in Calgary, AB!