Barriers to Technology Commercialization in Alberta

Résumé du livre

The 1996 report "Barriers to technology commercialization in Alberta" identified critical financing issues faced by emerging technology companies in the province, and outlined some prospective tax- and fiscal-related remedies. This report reviews those findings in the context of the August 1997 status of the Alberta advanced technology sector. Two overarching issues are the growth and diversification of the provincial economy and competitiveness with other jurisdictions. Specific issues discussed include shortage of financing for small to medium sized enterprises, lack of financing options related to commercialization and early growth, and lack of tax-related incentives to stimulate investment. Changes in investment initiatives since the 1996 report are described, including the use of venture capital, the emergence of new funds, mezzanine financing, public offerings, and federal and provincial government programs such as tax incentives. Recommendations are presented, complementary to those in the 1996 report, which address different needs of investees at various stages of growth while also being attentive to the differing needs of investors.