Self-Employment Program - FAQ

What financial assistance is available to help me become self-employed?

The Self Employment Program does not provide start-up financing to purchase equipment, buildings, inventory or working capital ... but you may apply for business financing under our loan program.

If you are accepted into the Self Employment Program, you may be eligible to receive financial assistance to help cover living expenses, although financial assistance may vary and depends on the availability of funds as well as your EI status.
If you have a current EI claim (with 26 weeks or more left in the claim), you may be able to collect EI up to 6 months during the start-up of your business.
If your EI claim runs out during the 6 month period, you will need to apply for funding through Alberta Employment & Immigration.*
If you do not have a current EI claim, but have had an EI claim in the past 3 years or a Parental claim in the past 5 years, you can apply for funding through Alberta Employment & Immigration.*
If you are currently receiving Income Support Benefits, you will need to have your case worker refer you to the Self Employment Program.

*The funding program through Alberta Employment & Immigration is for living expenses and not business start-up costs and is based on your total family income, need, and the number of family dependents. This funding is not guaranteed to each participant, is taxable, and will be repayable if you leave or are terminated from the Self Employment Program.

Why should I participate in the Self Employment Program?

The majority of small businesses fail for two main reasons:

1. Not writing a business plan; and

2. Not receiving assistance from professionals in the start-up of their business.

Start right and learn what it takes to run a successful small business!

Community Futures Wild Rose

Self-Employment Program - FAQ

Self-Employment Program