If your Alberta-based business is developing a high-impact clean technology, waiting for the next competitive funding call can slow you down. The Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA) Continuous Intake Program offers an always-open pathway for strong projects that don’t fit neatly into a scheduled call. ERA can fund strategic emissions‑reduction projects as they arise, rather than on fixed deadlines.
The Continuous Intake Program is different from ERA’s competitive funding rounds. There are no posted deadlines or fixed funding caps. Instead, ERA reviews projects as they are submitted. Promising projects may move forward through a staged assessment process.
ERA supports technologies that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Alberta and help the province’s economy grow. Each project is assessed individually. ERA usually looks for:
Funding priorities can change over time. This is why ERA keeps this intake open.
ERA does not publish a strict eligibility checklist for the Continuous Intake Program. Based on program guidance, applicants are usually:
Projects must show clear benefits to Alberta. Some partners can be outside the province, but the main impact must be in Alberta.
There is no fixed funding amount under the Continuous Intake Program. ERA decides funding on a case-by-case basis, depending on:
ERA funding is usually structured as non-repayable grants. Cost-sharing is expected, so you should be ready to show how your business or partners will pay for the rest of the project.
This program is not a standard call. The process is more about building a relationship with ERA than filling out forms.
Prepare a strong project concept
Describe your technology, the emissions reduction potential, and why your project is important now. ERA looks for projects that are urgent, strategic, or time‑sensitive.
Engage with ERA early
ERA encourages you to connect before sending detailed materials. This helps you confirm if your project is a good fit for continuous intake instead of a future funding call.
Submit information as requested
ERA may ask for a concept summary, technical details, budget, and emissions modelling. The requirements depend on your project.
Go through staged review
If ERA is interested, your project may move through more review steps, including technical and financial checks.
Negotiate and finalize funding
Approved projects move to funding agreements, milestones, and reporting requirements.
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter Alberta clean technology programs and see if continuous intake is the right choice, or if a competitive call would suit you better.
Show clear Alberta impact
Make sure your project delivers real emissions reductions in Alberta. Projects without strong local benefits are unlikely to move forward.
Plan for cost-sharing
ERA rarely funds 100% of a project. A weak or unclear co‑funding plan can slow down your application.
Act quickly if your project is time-sensitive
The Continuous Intake Program does not have deadlines. If your project is urgent, apply as soon as you are ready.
Communicate early with ERA
Early conversations with ERA matter more than submitting a standard proposal. Be ready to answer questions and adjust your plan if needed.
Waiting for a posted deadline
The Continuous Intake Program is always open. Waiting can cause you to miss an opportunity if your project is time‑sensitive.
Submitting without Alberta impact
ERA funding must benefit Alberta. Projects without clear in‑province emissions reductions are unlikely to move forward.
Overlooking cost-sharing expectations
ERA expects you to share costs. Not having a solid co‑funding plan can hurt your chances.
Treating it like a standard grant application
This program is flexible and strategic. Early conversations with ERA are more important than just filling out a form.
Q: Is the ERA Continuous Intake Program always open?
Yes. The Continuous Intake Program is open all the time and does not have set deadlines.
Q: Can early-stage or pilot projects apply?
Yes. ERA is interested in pilot, demonstration, and early commercialization projects, especially where emissions reductions can be shown in Alberta.
Q: How long does the review process take?
Timelines vary. Each project is assessed individually. Reviews can take weeks or months, depending on the project’s complexity.
Q: Is ERA funding taxable in Canada?
Grant funding is usually considered taxable income. Check with your accountant about your business structure and how you use the funds.
Q: Can I stack ERA funding with other grants?
Often yes, but stacking rules depend on total government assistance limits. ERA will review other funding sources during assessment.
The ERA Continuous Intake Program is a good option if your clean technology project is ready and will deliver strong emissions reductions in Alberta. GrantHub tracks active ERA funding options and other Alberta clean technology programs—check which ones match your business profile and timing. You may also want to explore related guidance like Innovation Vouchers vs Traditional Grants for Alberta Startups and How to stack grants and loans without violating funding rules.
Was this article helpful?
Rate it so we can improve our content.
Canada Proactive Disclosure Data
The Canadian government has funded over 400,000 businesses through 1.27 million grants and contributions. Check your eligibility in 60 seconds.