CFIB’s Key Priorities Ahead of Alberta's 2026 Budget

Small businesses are central to Alberta’s economy and local communities, providing essential services across the province and accounting for 61% of the private sector workforce. CFIB data shows that while business confidence has begun to recover from historic lows triggered by the Canada–U.S. trade war, optimism remains below levels associated with a healthy economy due to cost constraints and limitations on growth 

That’s why CFIB is calling on the Alberta government to use Budget 2026 to restore confidence and improve affordability for small businesses.  

Key solutions include: 

• Reducing the small business tax rate to 0% and increasing the threshold to $700,000, indexed to inflation; 

• Rebalancing the education property tax so businesses only pay their fair share 

• Lowering insurance premium taxes from 4% to 2%; 

• Avoiding increases to the minimum wage 

• Maintaining low and predictable WCB premiums; 

• Limiting municipal property tax increases and reigning in spending 

• Coordinating action on crime and community safety from all three levels of government , including practical support such as security rebate programs 

Alberta’s small businesses need a policy environment that supports growth, investment, and long-term stability. Looking at CFIB’s Business Barometer® Insurance, taxes, regulatory costs, and wages continue to squeeze margins, forcing many business owners to raise prices or delay investment. On the municipal side, property taxes remain a heavy burden. Because they are profit-insensitive, rising municipal taxes place added strain on businesses already grappling with higher operating costs. Many owners feel they are not receiving fair value for the municipal property taxes they pay, and this is a concern CFIB is raising at the provincial level.  

CFIB is also asking for continued leadership on red tape reduction, renewed action to eliminate interprovincial trade barriers, and labour policies that are predictable and affordable for small employers. Labour shortages remain a major barrier to growth, with nearly half of businesses citing labour costs as a serious concern. 

Crime and community safety are adding further pressure. Nearly half of Alberta small businesses report an increase in crime in their area, and a majority are concerned about the safety of staff and customers. These issues are driving higher security costs and operational changes that small firms can ill afford. 

CFIB will continue to push the government of Alberta to reduce costs, cut red tape, and create conditions where small businesses can succeed. 

Join CFIB today and add your voice to the fight for a stronger, more affordable future for Alberta’s small businesses.