The Council of the Town of Lacombe and I are extremely pleased that you are considering the establishment of your business venture in our community. I would like to take this opportunity to welcome you and extend to you our best wishes for a successful endeavor. Working together we can continue to ensure that Lacombe is one of the most pleasant places in our province in which to live, raise our families and create a healthy business environment.

As well as being a clean, quiet and safe place to live, Lacombe is a caring, friendly, family oriented community. You will find that Lacombe offers a wide variety of services and amenities. Recreational facilities, parks and playgrounds, schools, churches, cultural opportunities, tourist attractions, and health care services are all located here to contribute to a great lifestyle for our citizens. Service clubs and the Chamber of Commerce are pleased to accept new members and offer an outlet for newcomers to get involved in the community and contribute to the well being of the residents and the business community.

If there is any way in which the Town of Lacombe can be of assistance as you get your business established, please feel free to contact me, our Economic Development Officer, or any other member of our Town Office staff, and we will be happy to lend whatever assistance we can.

Again, a hearty welcome to Lacombe, the Oasis in the Parkland, and our very best wishes for every success in your business venture.

W.J. (Bill) McQuesten, Mayor

Town of Lacombe

MESSAGE FROM THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOARD

Our Lacombe community offers many amenities to our citizens. With its central location. Lacombe has attracted interest in new business ventures. This is a positive attraction as it contributes to continuous growth for residential, commercial and industrial development.

Lacombe shows potential and promise for future enterprise and it is hoped that this booklet “Your Guide to Doing Business in Lacombe” will provide its readers with the needed information to facilitate success in this ever growing community.

The Economic Development Board is always working on your behalf and is open to suggestions for making the Town of Lacombe the “best it can be”. The Town’s Economic Development Officer is continuously working to promote the town and its corporate citizens.

On behalf of the Economic Development Board, I would like to thank you for considering the Town of Lacombe for your enterprise and wish you much success in your endeavors.

Lori Hellofs, Chairman

Lacombe Economic Development Board

TOWN PLANNING REQUIREMENTS

PURCHASING TOWN OWNED PROPERTIES

The Town of Lacombe sells town owned industrial and commercial property and may have a property you require in a location suited to your business venture. For information on industrial, commercial or residential land, please contact:

Economic Development Department

Town of Lacombe

5432 – 56 Avenue

Lacombe, Alberta T4L IE9

Phone: (403) 782-1263

Fax: (403) 782-5655

E-mail: mail@town.lacombe.ab.ca

Web Site: http://www.town.lacombe.ab.ca

DEVELOPMENT APPROVALS

The Inspections and Licensing Department of the Town of Lacombe is responsible for administering all required zoning, subdivision and development approvals. For further information, contact:

Planning and Development Department

Town of Lacombe

5432 – 56 Avenue

Lacombe, Alberta T4L IE9

Phone: (403) 782-6666

Fax: (403) 782-5655

E-mail: mail@town.lacombe.ab.ca

Web Site: http://www.town.lacombe.ab.ca

ZONING - THE LAND USE BYLAW

The Land Use Bylaw divides all land in the Town into land use districts or zones. “Permitted” or “discretionary” uses are allowed in each district, and are subject to specific standards, with respect to setbacks from property lines, parking, building size, height, etc. The intent of the Land Use Bylaw is to ensure uses are compatible with their neighbors, and are developed attractively. Check to determine if the property you wish to buy or lease is located in a zone that allows the type of business you wish to establish. If your site is in the right district, you may apply for development approval.

If your property is not in a district that would allow your type of business, you may wish to discuss a re-zoning application with the Development Department. To approve re-zoning, Town Council must adopt an amendment to the Land Use Bylaw. Town Council must advertise the proposed amendment and hold a public hearing to allow others affected by the amendment to express their views. An outline plan or area structure plan may be required prior to re-zoning. Council may approve or refuse an application to amend the bylaws.

It takes approximately eight weeks from the date of application to re-zone a property.

To apply for re-zoning and information on fees, please contact:

Town of Lacombe

5432 – 56 Avenue

Lacombe, Alberta T4L IE9

Phone: (403) 782-6666

Fax: (403) 782-5655

E-mail: mail@town.lacombe.ab.ca

Web Site: http://www.town.lacombe.ab.ca

SUBDIVISIONS

It may be necessary to subdivide a parcel to create a property that is the appropriate size for your business. Subdivision is the process of dividing a larger parcel of land into smaller parcels, so that a separate Certificate of Title can be registered by the Land Titles Office. In order to subdivide, you must make application to the Town of Lacombe Administration Office. All applications are referred to the Town’s Municipal Planning Commission for a decision. There is a 19 day appeal period which must expire before the Provincial Land Titles Office will issue new titles.

Fees and deposits are assessed for the initial application and again at final approval for each new lot created. It takes approximately two months to process a subdivision application, assuming it is not appealed, plus processing time by the Land Titles Office.

For more information, contact:

Town of Lacombe

5432 56 Avenue

Lacombe, Alberta T4L IE9

Phone: (403) 782-6666

Fax: (403) 782-5655

E-mail: mail@town.lacombe.ab.ca

Web Site: http://www.town.lacombe.ab.ca

DEVELOPMENT APPROVALS UNDER THE LAND USE BYLAW

In order to carry out any development or change of use on the proposed site, you must apply for a development permit from the Town.

Please note that Home Occupations also require development approval.

Uses which are “permitted” by the Land Use Bylaw can be approved by the Development Officer. “Discretionary” use or uses which require a relaxation of the Bylaw requirements can only be considered by the Municipal Planning Commission. Four to six weeks should be allowed for approval. Following notification of the decision by the Municipal Planning Commission or the Planning and Development Officer, there is a 14 day appeal period, during which anyone affected by the development may appeal a decision or condition to the Development Appeal Board.

An application fee is required.

Permitted Uses

Residential $50.00

(over 4 units $80.00)
Commercial/Industrial/Residential Over 4 Units $100.00

Discretionary Uses

Residential 100.00
Commercial/Industrial/Residential Over 4 Units $200.00

For further information regarding land use regulations and approvals, please contact:

Town of Lacombe

5432 – 56 Avenue

Lacombe, Alberta T4L IE9

Phone: (403) 782-1264

Fax: (403) 782-5655

E-mail: lacombe§cnnet.com

Web Site: http://www.town.lacombe.ab.ca

INSPECTIONS

Building, Electrical and Mechanical Inspections

The Inspections Group Inc., on behalf of the Town of Lacombe, carries out regular inspections of work under all building, electrical and mechanical permits to be issued, to ensure that the work meets the standard of the Alberta Building Code. It is strongly recommended that you consult with the inspectors with regard to your building and mechanical plans.

Contact:

The Inspections Group Inc.

13124 St. Albert Trail

Edmonton, AB T5L 4P6

Telephone: (780) 454-5048

Fax: (780) 454-5222

PERMITS

The Town Office issues all building, electrical, plumbing and gas permits needed for building occupancy, moving and demolition.

Building Permits

Building permits are required for the construction of new buildings and the demolition, repairs, alterations or additions to existing buildings. Building permits are not required for painting and maintenance work that does not affect electrical or mechanical work. Interior non-structural alterations of less that $1,000 in value, driveways, or fencing do not require a permit, however, there are some height restrictions.

Plumbing and Heating Permits

Permits are required for the installation of plumbing fixtures, water lines, furnaces and duct work, as well as alterations to waste, vent lines and duct work.

Electrical Permits

Permits are required prior to construction of new buildings or the alterations of existing buildings. Fees are required for all permits, with the amount varying depending on the type of work being performed.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOARD

MISSION STATEMENT

Economic Development must remain an important function for the Town of Lacombe. To remain a vital community in our own right, we must continue to grow. To improve the fiscal capacity of the Town in the future, it is desirable to increase the non-residential taxable assessment base. A deliberate and organized effort from within the community, through the direction of the Economic Development Board, is therefore needed.

OBJECTIVES

Offer activities and programs which would:

· Assist those who are interested in developing and investing by providing information and encouragement and by assisting them in securing needed financial resources.

· Identify business opportunities in the community and seek out those who might seize those opportunities.

· Promote Lacombe at home and abroad.

Broaden the support for and involvement in economic development initiatives to encompass all sectors of the community including the Chamber of Commerce and other business organizations, key provincial and federal government services in the community and the municipal and other local governments.

GOALS

To facilitate the Board’s objectives, the goals are to focus on:

· Light industrial development including oil, gas and petrochemical related businesses, value added opportunities for existing businesses and agricultural related processing and manufacturing.

· Tourist attractions, including special events and activities and the development of permanent attractions and facilities including a major agricultural interpretive centre.

Retail services with the objective of widening local shopping variety, enhancing the agriculture service sector and becoming a distinctive shopping destination with specialty shops and unique businesses.

STARTING A BUSINESS

The prospect of starting a business is an exciting and demanding time for entrepreneurs. A proven and effective method of assisting successful business starts is the development of a business plan. By completing a business plan, you will better understand markets, costs and competitive factors that will influence the future success of your new business. You will have increased confidence and will be better armed to obtain necessary financing and resources that will be required to start a successful new venture. All new businesses should consider the development of a business plan as their first step.

CHECKLIST FOR STARTING A BUSINESS

- Develop a business plan.

- Complete your market research.

- Obtain financial commitment before proceeding with start-up costs.

- If you intend to operate as a sole proprietor or partnership, register your business name with Corporate Registry

- If you are going to incorporate your business, contact Corporate Registry - Contact the Town of Lacombe for appropriate licenses and permits

- Obtain proper provincial and/or federal licenses. For most businesses this would mean contacting the licensing section of Housing and Consumer Services Division of Alberta Municipal Affairs or local licensing offices

- Some businesses require special licenses or permits. Contact the appropriate authority.

- Contact Revenue Canada to open an account for installment payments of income taxes

- All commercial businesses with more than $30,000 in gross annual taxable sales and revenues must register with Revenue Canada - Excise to collect and remit the Goods and Services Tax .

- Register your company with the Workers’ Compensation Board.

- Contact Revenue Canada - Source Deductions Section to obtain an employer’s account number for Employment Insurance and Canada Pension Plan deductions .

- If you employ five or more people, register with the Alberta Health Insurance Plan.). Ensure that you comply with the pertinent labour regulations by contacting the Labour Relations Board of Alberta Labour .

- Contact Advanced Education and Career Development and the Human Resources Development Centre if assistance is required to locate and/or train new employees.

- Ensure that all health regulations that relate to your business have been investigated.

- Obtain appropriate insurance, leases and other operating needs.

- Ensure that all environmental issues that affect your business have been investigated .

For Additional information on Starting a Business contact The Business Link at www.cbsc.org/alberta

(refer to following pages for addresses and contact numbers for articles in this checklist)

KEY ORGANIZATIONS

ALABERTA ADVANCED EDUCATION AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT

Alberta Advanced Education and Career Development (AECD) has valuable information on the labour market, careers and training opportunities. The method of delivery is through the Labour Market Information Centre which houses numerous information materials for entrepreneurs and businesses.

AECD’s mission is to ensure that all Albertans have skills to actively participate in the labour market. Services offered include:

free job vacancy advertising through Alberta Jobs at 1-800-999-1546
counseling and information on the labour market job trends
information on human resource issues for employers
apprenticeship information
advice, counseling and training for individuals unable to access the labour market.

Labour market trends information assists individuals and companies to note areas of growth in the economy and analyze their ability to participate in this new and changing economy.

Resources include publications such as the departmentally produced "The Competitive Race: A Guide to Human Resource Practices for Business" as well as the training guide and video "The Winning Edge - Alberta Success Stories." All videos, print materials and articles focus on how people make the difference in business. Information on the full range of human resource issues employers face from recruitment to methods of right sizing to determining the cost benefit ratio of employer based training for employees is available. Numerous magazines and books focus on becoming an entrepreneur.

AECD is committed to working in partnership throughout the community to ensure central Albertans have the skills to access the labour market.

For more information, please contact:

Labour Market Information Centre
Alberta Advanced Education and Career Development
205 Provincial Building
4920 - 51 Street
Red Deer, Alberta T4N 6K8
Phone: (403) 340-5366
Fax: (403) 340-7086
Web Site: http://www.aecd.gov.ab.ca/

ALBERTA AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT

Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development develops and delivers agriculture information and management systems that are competitive today, and environmentally and economically sustainable for tomorrow. Key customers are those producers and agriculture related businesses who adopt leading edge technology in production, marketing and value-added processing. Alberta Agriculture bridges the gap between research and applied technology.

Global markets, value-added, diversification, intensification, vertical integration and processing offer new economic development opportunities. They expanded their networks and services to focus on market development and adding value to agriculture commodities.

Call on Alberta Agriculture’s specialists: agricultural engineers, farm management, agri-food, rural development-business, beef, forages, pork, cereals, oilseeds, special crops, soil management, range management, commodity marketing, conservation resource specialists, intensive livestock, horticulture, food scientists and rural development-organizations. These people are located in offices across Alberta. Over sixteen different disciplines deliver information through one-on-one consultations, education programs, publications, videos, media, newsletters, regulatory services and research.

Alberta Agriculture works in partnership with agribusiness, colleges, universities, farm and community organizations and other government departments to provide better business solutions to Alberta’s growing agriculture and food processing industry.

Alberta Agriculture links people, ideas and resources in rural Alberta. Drop in to view the large publication display and use the resources in the business and diversification centers. Access services and information on the Internet at http://www.agric.gov.ab.ca or e-mail questions to: duke@gov.ab.ca

Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development offices in the Town of Lacombe:

AGRICULTURE DISTRICT OFFICE

The first contact for information and services of department specialists and programs.

Agriculture Building
5030 - 50 Street
Lacombe AB T4L 1W8
Phone: (403) 782-4188
Fax: (403) 782-5514

Email: david.dyson@gov.ab.ca

Pasture Management - Forages Unit

A joint venture between the federal and provincial governments, providing research and information support on forage production and utilization.

6000 C&E Trail
Lacombe AB T4L 1W1
Phone: (403) 782-8028
Fax: (403) 782-6120

Field Crop Development Center

This group of research scientists and technicians co-ordinate and support the field crop services across the province. They also lead the provincial barley and triticale breeding research programs.

Agriculture Building
5030 - 50 Street
Lacombe AB T4L 1W8
Phone: (403) 782-4641
Fax: (403) 782-5514

Alberta Crops Research Farm

This research facility is responsible for developing new varieties of barley and triticale that will meet world market needs and value-added processing demands. The Research Farm is located across from the Agriculture Canada Research Station on Highway 2A just south of Lacombe.

Agriculture Financial Services Corporation

The Agriculture Financial Services Corporation (AFSC) offers direct and guaranteed lending to farmers, and agri-business loans and financial services to value-added processors in Alberta.   AFSC’s portfolio reflects the growing strength of agri-business in Alberta. Clients include food manufacturers, seed cleaning plants, sunflower processors and many others.

The services of Farm Credit Corporation (FCC) and the Agriculture Financial Services Corporation (AFSC) are available at some one stop service centers throughout the province. AFSC account managers are also agents for FCC. That means, they act like any other branch office - managing the complete lending and monitoring process.

For further information, contact:

Agriculture Financial Services Corporation (AFSC)
4910 - 52 Street
Bag 5000
Camrose, Alberta     T4V 4E8
Phone: (780) 679-1311
Fax: (780) 679-1714

or for Farm Lending contact:

Farm Lending
Agriculture Financial Services Corporation
5110 - 49 Avenue
Ponoka, AB     T4J 1S1
Phone: (403) 783-7072
Fax: (403) 783-7925

ALBERTA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT DIVISION

Through the regional offices, Alberta Economic Development provides services and information on programs that are designed to enhance regional economic activity.

Specifically, the regional office offers information services for new and existing businesses. Information available includes statistical, demographics and financial performance indicators for specific business opportunities, and a wide range of business guides. The regional office also provides referrals to other service providers who can assist clients with their business start up needs.

The regional office acts as a key liaison to the Department's Industry Development and International Markets Division. These departments provide a wide variety of services to key sectors of Alberta's economy such as investment attraction, technology development and exporting.

Services are rendered to the entrepreneur on a principle of self help. The department and its regional office network provide accessibility to a broad range of potential information sources and assistance awareness. Most services are provided on a no fee basis.

The Red Deer regional office is part of a partnership agreement with over thirty municipalities in the central Alberta region. The Red Deer office hosts the partnership known as the Central Alberta Economic Partnership (CAEP). The agreement was formed to enhance the service delivery of the economic development in the region.

For more information, please contact:

Alberta Economic Development
International Markets and Regional Development
305, Provincial Building
4920 - 51 Avenue
Red Deer, Alberta T4N 6K8
Phone: (403) 340-5300
Fax: (403) 340-5231
E-mail: edtrd@telusplanet.net
Web Site: http://www.alberta-canada.com

ALBERTA OPPORTUNITY COMPANY

Alberta Opportunity Company (AOC) is a crown corporation that serves as an alternative source of financing for small businesses across the province. Along with providing vital support to Alberta’s entrepreneurs through financial assistance, it also contributes to the success of private enterprise by supplying crucial business advice.

AOC is committed to fostering Alberta business through:

term loans and guarantees
export financial assistance
mainstreet improvement financing
student business loans
consulting services.

Whether planning to start, purchase or expand a business, Alberta Opportunity Company may be able to help you.

For more information, please contact:

Ken Huston, Branch Manager
Alberta Opportunity Company
5110 - 49 Avenue
P.O. Box 4040
Ponoka, Alberta T4J 1R5
Phone: (403) 783-7011
Fax: (403) 783-7079
E-mail: aocponoka@aoc.gov.ab.ca
Web Site: http://www.gov.ab.ca/aoc

ALBERTA RESEARCH COUNCIL

The Alberta Research Council (ARC) works with customers and partners to bring technology developments into commercial use for the benefit of all Albertans. ARC performs applied research and development, and provides expert advice and technical information to a diverse range of clients from small start-up firms to large multinational corporations, and government departments and agencies.

ARC provides a full spectrum of research, development and advisory services that effectively bridge the gap between basic research and market development. The corporation works closely with industry, universities and other groups in a variety of arrangements, including strategic alliances, contract research, joint ventures, consortia and licensing arrangements.

Today, ARC is widely recognized for its capability in seven market sectors. These include the key economic drivers of Alberta's economy, or the natural resource-based sectors: agriculture, energy and forestry. They include the emerging or supporting technologies: biotechnology, environment, information technology and manufacturing.

For more information, please contact:

Alberta Research Council
250 Karl Clark Road
Edmonton, Alberta T6N 1E4
Phone: (780) 450-5111
Fax: (780) 450-5333
E-mail: referral@arc.ab.ca
Web site: http://www.arc.ab.ca/

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT BANK OF CANADA

The Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) is Canada's small business bank. It offers a unique range of flexible and innovative financial products that includes term loans, quasi-equity financing and venture capital, designed to help small business grow.

BDC supports businesses in many sectors, placing a particular focus on Exporters, Knowledge-Based Industries (KBIs) and high-growth companies. Small businesses in those target sectors often lack hard asset security to obtain complete financing from conventional sources. BDC works in concert with financial institutions to add to or help complete the financing a business needs at each stage of growth.

BDC provides term loans for a wide variety of purposes, including acquiring fixed assets, upgrading or expanding facilities, acquiring an existing business or replenishing working capital.

Venture loans provide quasi-equity financing for businesses with a high-quality management team, a clear market niche and a strong potential for growth. Funds assist with expansion or market development projects. Repayment terms are flexible and the pricing structure combines interest payments with a royalty on sales.

Venture capital is available for high-tech companies. BDC invests in projects at any stage of a company's life cycle from seed through to development, expansion, acquisition or initial public offering.

With the launch of BDC Connex, BDC 's virtual bank, BDC offers on-line access to a complete range of financial services, including loans and lines of credit. The new line of credit card responds to urgent needs for short-term financing.

In support of the management needs of small business, the new BDC Consulting Group (formerly Management Services) offers an affordable nationwide network of high-quality consultants. BDC provides "total solutions" to Canadian small business, combining financing with management expertise. BDC helps clients to acquire the skills to keep pace with their growing business by providing a range of services from one-on-one consulting services in quality management (ISO; HACCP), to strategic planning, export development and human resource areas.

For more information, please contact:

Business Development Bank of Canada
Suite 107, 4815 - 50th Avenue
Red Deer, Alberta T4N 4A5
Phone: (403) 340-4203 or 1-800-782-9263
Fax: (403) 340-4243
Web Site: http://www.bdc.ca

THE CENTRE FOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

The Centre for Business Development (CBD) was created to encourage, facilitate and actively support the development of employment opportunities in west central Alberta by providing financial and management assistance to small and micro enterprises. The CBD has an investment fund - a source of risk capital for entrepreneurs who require flexible financing; and information - contacts, sources, networks.

The Centre assists and guides its clients. It assumes the role of business development facilitator.

Counseling assistance is available in all areas of business management and operates on a fee for service basis with the initial consultation free. The CBD also offers marketing and financial planning assistance to maximize the chances of getting financial support from lending institutions.

The Centre for Business Development also hosts a number of informative workshops and seminars.

For more information, please contact:

Centre for Business Development
4815 - 48 Street
Red Deer, Alberta T4N 1S6
Phone: (403) 342-2055
Fax: (403) 347-6980
E-mail: cbd@telusplanet.net

EAST PARKLAND COMMUNITY AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

East Parkland provides services to assist businesses, create employment and develop the communities in east central Alberta. Services include small business loans. East Parkland also administers programs targeted at providing loans to Youth Entrepreneurs and Entrepreneurs with Disabilities.

The Self Employment Assistance Program (SEA) is a program sponsored though the Human Resources Development Centre. East Parkland has delivered this program in the central Alberta region since 1988. SEA helps people on Employment Insurance to start businesses. People selected for this program receive training allowances for one year while they run their businesses. They also offer workshops for clients on such topics as bookkeeping, taxes, marketing, media advertising and time management. To offer greater support for clients, they have also set up a networking group called "Business Links."

BOSS is a five-week self-employment training course also sponsored thought HRD. Participants develop a business plan and gain skills in researching, marketing, bookkeeping, getting financing and operations through hands-on experience and listening to many guest speakers.

For more information, please contact:

East Parkland Community and Business Development Corporation
5020 - 50 Avenue
Box 250
Mirror, Alberta T0B 3C0
Phone: (403) 788-2212 or 1-888-788-2829
Fax: (403) 788-2199
E-mail: eparklan@telusplanet.net

HUMAN RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT CENTER

Canada Alberta Service Center
4911 - 51 Street
Box 5050
Red Deer, Alberta T4N 6A1

Employment Insurance

Employment Insurance offers support to the following programs and the phone numbers listed below:

Inquiries

Phone: 1-800-206-7218 (English) or 1-800- 808-6352 (French)

Social Insurance Number Application

Inquiries may be made either in person or by mail.

Phone: (403) 341-7156

Local Labour Market Information

Web Site: www.ab.hrdc-drhc.gc.ca/lmi/

Record of Employment Ordering

Phone: 1-800-561-3992
Fax: 1-800-829-6891
Phone: (780) 495-4722
Fax: (780) 495-2394
Web Site: http://www.ab.hrdc-drhc.gc.ca

Electronic Labour Exchange

Web Site: http://www.ele-spe.org

Job Bank

Web Site: http://jb-ge.hrdc-drhc.gc.ca/index.html

Youth and Persons with Disabilities

Several programs are available for youth and persons with disabilities. These programs include: Summer Career Placement, Youth Services Canada, Youth Internship Canada and the Opportunities Program.

Phone: (403) 341-7127

Labour

Information is available regarding the following programs: Federal Mediation and Conciliation, Labour-Management Partnerships, Occupational Health and Safety, Fire Protection, Federal Workers Compensation, Labour Standards, Workplace Equity. The Canada Labour Code covers air, interprovincial rail, road and pipeline transportation, banking, broadcasting, uranium mining, shipping and related services, telecommunications and crown corporations.

Phone: (403) 292-4566 or 1-800-559-7789
Web Site: http://labour.hrdc-drhc.gc.ca.

Income Security Programs

Information is available for either of these programs: Canada Pension Plan, Old Age Security and Guaranteed Income Supplement.

Phone: 1-800-277-9914

RED DEER COLLEGE

Industrial Research Assistance Program

The Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP) is a service in cooperation with the National Research Council Canada. The aim of IRAP is to help Canadian firms effectively adapt technology to stimulate productivity, profitability and international competitiveness. Small and medium-size companies are eligible for support from IRAP for feasibility studies, research, development and adaptation of new technology.

Firms can access the family of services offered by IRAP through the Industrial Technology Advisor located at Red Deer College. The advisor visits companies in central Alberta to define technical needs, identify technical opportunities and to link firms to sources of appropriate scientific and engineering expertise.

Extension Services

The Extension Services Department, formerly Community Education, offers a variety of continuing education courses tailored to meet both professional and personal development goals. These open enrollment courses are delivered by professional facilitators on campus, at the work site and in international settings. Depending on the amount of interest in a course, they will consider delivering the program at a designated location in your community. Examples of courses include: Successful Money Strategies, Quality Customer Service, Effective Time Management, Welding, Project Management for New Home Construction, Conservatory of Music, Introductory Drawing and National Coaching Certification Programs.

For further information, please contact:

Phone: (403) 357-3663
E-mail: cssar@rdc.ab.ca

Best Business Practices Group

This service is targeted at business owners committed to moving their business operations to a higher benchmark. Acting as a training broker, they will explore custom training solutions that maximize your investment in people. Working with a team of college professionals, businesses will have an opportunity to bridge and package resources deemed necessary to achieve the contract’s targeted outcome. The college is also open to creating programs and offering training support to a group of businesses that have an identified common need.

IKON LITE Centre

The Learning Innovation and Teaching Excellence (LITE) Centre is a state-of-the-art computer training facility. The Centre houses two labs that give learners access to the latest hardware and software tools. Courses offerings are designed to meet a wide range of skill levels and provide hands-on experience with office software applications, Internet browsers and today’s latest multimedia production software. If you are seeking a custom training program or need assistance with a multimedia production project, please call and explore the scope of services available.

For more information, please contact:

Red Deer College
Box 5005
Red Deer, Alberta T4N 5H5
Phone: (403) 342-3205
Fax: (403) 343-1033
Web Site: http://www.rdc.ab.ca

LACOMBE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Lacombe & District Chamber of Commerce has its roots deeply embedded in the history of Lacombe. In 1904, the first Board of Trade was established and its purpose, much like today’s Chamber, was to promote the area’s economy and encourage business and industrial development. The Chamber endeavors to work closely with the Town Council, the Economic Development Board, David Thompson Tourism Council and other local organizations and public officials to achieve its goal of benefiting the community.

The Chamber of Commerce provides a unique forum for companies of all sizes, regardless of location or political affiliation, to come together to work in the best interest of business. Members enjoy the benefits of the Chamber’s government advocacy services and share in a host of "saving-oriented" programs designed especially for Alberta firms. Monthly meetings allow members to network with others and participate in discussions regarding business concerns.

The Chamber helps to organize community events such as, the Farmer’s Bonspiel Breakfasts, Celebrate Lacombe Days and Moonlight Madness to name a few. The Chamber is extremely proud of the annual Sports and Trade Show, which showcases our local business community to approximately 10,000 people over two days.

The Chamber, is a volunteer-driven organization and invites everyone to join in building a stronger and more vibrant business community in Lacombe.

For more information, please contact:

Lacombe & District Chamber of Commerce
6005 - 50 Avenue
Lacombe, Alberta T4L 1K7

Phone: (403) 782-4300
Fax: (403) 782-4302
E-mail: chamber1@telusplanet.net

INFORMATION SOURCES

Each of these organizations will work with clients to search their data sources and may act as a referral agent to other more appropriate sources. A fee may be attached to certain services.

Lacombe Public Library has developed a substantial reference area for small businesses. Their reference staff has experience in assisting with any inquiries.

Advanced Education and Career Development has a specialized library known as the Labour Market Information Centre for entrepreneurs and businesses as well as for individuals seeking information about jobs and training. Materials about human resource management can help companies develop strategies for recruitment and training.

Alberta Economic Development and Tourism has a library of reference books on business and industry. Included in this library are the Thomas Register of American Manufacturers and the Fraser’s Canadian Trade Directory, which are essentially the “yellow pages” of all the companies in North America listed by the services and products they provide.

Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development offers a Business and Diversification Resource Centre at the Lacombe Agriculture office. It is a place to start researching or expanding your agri-business centre idea. Alternative livestock, agri-tourism, horticulture, organics, food processing plus business planning and market development information can be borrowed free of charge. The office has an extensive publication and video listing, home study courses and information on programs and special events. The Ag Venture industry profiles and The Packaged Goods on Food Processing are new resources for rural entrepreneurs.

Other valuable sources of information, services and contacts may be found on the internet at http://www.agric.gov.ab.ca

BUSINESS REGISTRATION

BUSINESS NAME

The adoption of a business name through the registration of a trade name or partnership does not have any restrictions, nor does it offer any right of ownership of the name. What It does offer is proof that the business name is in use by a particular business. It also provides consumers with information on the identities of the operators of sole proprietorships and partnerships.

This does not mean that choosing a business name is an unimportant task that needs little consideration. In fact, the opposite is true. Although there is little by way of restriction on a business name, the poor choice of a business name could bring unwanted legal complications. For example, if the name chosen is the same as, or similar to, an existing trade name, corporate name or trademark, an offended party could take the business to court and ask a judge to stop the use of the name and to award damages.

There are no guarantees when selecting a business name. However, some potential problems can be reduced. One of the best ways is to obtain an Alberta business name search on the proposed business name and assess it before filing the Declaration of Trade Name or Partnership.

An Alberta Incorporated Name Search Report or a Business Name Search Report may be obtained from any of the search houses appearing on the Search House List.

CORPORATE LINK

Corporate Link is Corporate Registry’s automated telephone information service. This is a direct link to Corporate Registry information 24 hours a day from the convenience of a touch tone telephone. The link provides information via Corporate Link Codes on Alberta and extra-provincially registered corporations, trade names, partnerships, limited partnerships and non profit organizations.

There is also information on office hours, locations, processing times, current fees and step by step assistance to complete the most frequently requested forms. Orders can be placed for forms, photocopies and certified photocopies.

For further information, please contact: Phone: (780) 427-2311

RITE line within Alberta 310-0000

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS

Sole Proprietorship

The sole proprietorship or trade name is the simplest type of business formation. The proprietor assumes all responsibilities for the business (including financing, operation and taxes) and accepts all profits or losses. If the business fails, the owner assumes total liability. This means all of your assets, whether business or personal, can be legally taken and used to discharge the liability. Individuals who operate a business under a name other than their own name, must register the business name with Corporate Registry.

PARTNERSHIPS

General Partnerships

In a general partnership, each partner is jointly and severally liable for the debts of the partnership. This means that one partner can be held responsible for all debts and obligations incurred in the name of the business by another partner. As a partner, you can also be held responsible for any wrongful act or omission by other partners acting in the ordinary course of the firm’s business. All partners must be registered at Corporate Registry.

Limited Partnership

This is an arrangement that lets a person contribute to a business without being involved in the affairs of the partnership. As a limited partner, your liability to the firm or its creditors is limited to the amount you invest in the firm. To remain a limited partner, you must take no part in the management of the firm or act on behalf of the company, or you become a general partner. The declaration for a limited partner must be filed with Corporate Registry.

Register the name of your new business. This registration alerts other potential users of your business name and makes the ownership known to the public if it is not apparent from the name. Everyone who fails to comply with The Partnership Act is guilty of an offence and may be fined.

Limited Companies

The terms “corporation,” “incorporated company” and “limited company” are synonymous.

An incorporated company forms a distinct legal entity separate from its owners (shareholders). Therefore, no member of the company can be held personally liable for the debts, obligations or acts of the company. A shareholder is only liable for the unpaid portion of shares owned. Financial institutions may ask for extra security on business loans by asking for personal guarantees that circumvent the advantage of limited liability to shareholders.

You may file for incorporation yourself, however, it is a fairly complicated procedure so legal advice is recommended. Companies may be incorporated either federally under the Canada Corporations Act or provincially under the Business Corporations Act. While the procedures are very similar, there are slight differences that should be taken into consideration. A company incorporated federally may have to register in each province in which it does business. An company incorporated in Alberta can operate in the province but would have to register as an extra-provincial company if it wished to expand into other provinces.

For more information, please contact:

Corporate Registry Offices

John E. Brownlee Building

10365-97 Street

Edmonton, Alberta T5J 3W7

Phone: (780) 427-2311

Fax: (780) 422-1091

E-mail: Alberta.Registries~gov.ab.ca

Web Site: http://www.gov.ab.ca/ma/reg/cr/service_delivery. htm

COOPERATIVES

A cooperative is a form of business organization different from an ordinary corporation; a cooperative is still able to enter into contracts under its corporate name. Liability for the individual members of a cooperative is limited to the extent of the value of shares held.

Cooperatives must be incorporated and contain the word “cooperative” in their name. It is an offense to carry on business under the name of a cooperative if you do not comply with the regulations put forward in the Cooperative Associations Act. Applications are available at and approved by the Cooperative Program and then forwarded to Corporate Registry for incorporation.

For cooperative program information and applications, please contact.

Alberta Municipal Affairs

Housing and Consumer Affairs

16th Floor, Commerce Place

Mail Station 16-B

10155- 102 Street

Edmonton, Alberta T5J 4L4

Phone: (780) 427-8525

Fax: (780) 427-3033

E-mail: question~censsw.gov.ab.ca

Web Site: http://www.gov.ab.ca/mal

FRANCHISES

Generally, franchising is an ongoing contractual arrangement between a franchiser and a franchisee. The franchiser grants the franchisee the right to market a product or service, to use its trademark, and provides a tested system of operating the business. The franchisee is required to pay a fee(s) and to conform to the standards set by the franchiser.

Alberta is the only province in Canada that has franchise legislation. If you are considering trading in franchises in Alberta (this includes selling a franchise), you are required by law to give every prospective franchisee a disclosure document in legal form. You should consult your legal advisor before entering into any arrangement that may be a franchise.

For more information contact:

The Director of Franchising

Alberta Securities Commission

₂₁st Floor, 10025 Jasper Avenue

Edmonton, Alberta T5J 3Z5

Phone: (780) 427-5201
Fax: (780) 422-0777

Web Site: http://www.sedar.com

LICENSING

MUNICIPAL LICENCES

Resident Businesses

Business licensing (including Home Occupations) is required prior to starting any business in

Lacombe and must be renewed yearly. An annual fees is assessed at a flat rate.

Non-Resident Businesses

Depending on the nature of the business, you shall require a Town of Lacombe business license to conduct business in Lacombe.

In order to determine whether you require a business license, you should contact the Licensing Department with a description of your intended business activities. If it is determined that you require a business license, you will be advised of the class within which your business falls, as well as the steps required to obtain the license. You will also be advised of the license fee.

Home-Based Businesses

Generally, people living in a residential area expect the residential character of the neighborhood and the visual amenities to be protected from intrusion by commercial business. However, under the Land Use Bylaw, the Town allows small-scale businesses. Such businesses are called Home Occupations which are discretionary and require a development permit.

For more information on municipal licensing requirements and fees, please contact:

Town of Lacombe

5432 - 56 Avenue

Lacombe, Alberta T4L IE9

          Phone:                    (403) 782-6666
          Fax:                       (403) 782-5655
          E-mail:           mail@town.lacombe.ab.ca

Web Site: http://www.town.lacombe.ab.ca

Provincial Special Licenses

Some businesses need provincial special licenses that may include examinations, bonding, zoning approvals, fire safety inspections, on-highway permits, trade qualifications or trust provisions. Examples of these businesses include automotive businesses, cemeteries, employment agencies and contractors, who require a deposit or front fee before work is undertaken.

For assistance in this regard, contact:

Alberta Municipal Affairs

Housing and Consumer Affairs Division

₁₃th Floor, Commerce Place

10155 - 102 Street

Edmonton, Alberta T5J 4L4

Phone: (780) 427-5782

Fax: (780) 422-9106

E-mail: nfield~ma.gov.ab.ca

Web Site: http://www.gov.ab.ca/~ma

Federal Licenses

The federal government has wide licensing powers within the fields of agriculture, manufacturing, communication, and interprovincial and international transportation. The following lists some of the more pertinent federal licensing requirements related to Alberta businesses:

· The federal Department of Agriculture controls the manufacture of fertilizers and pesticides and issues permits for importing and exporting agricultural products.

· Certain materials and equipment are classified as strategic; a permit is required from Industry Canada, Science and Technology Canada for export. Exports to certain countries also require permits.

· The Civil Aviation Branch of Transport Canada controls the licensing of all pilots and aircraft.

· Broadcasting stations, ham radios, two-way radios and citizen band radios require broadcasting licenses from Communications Canada.

· Fish processing companies and companies or individuals operating fishing vessels may obtain information on licensing from Fisheries and Oceans Canada.

To access federal government telephone numbers and addresses, please call:

Revenue Canada

Client Assistance for Businesses

Phone: (403) 341-7047

UTILITIES AND SERVICES

UTILITY SERVICE APPLICATIONS, BILLING AND COSTS

A signed utilities contract is required to obtain utilities services (water, sewer and garbage). This contract can be completed at the Town Utilities Department. A two year security deposit IS required for all new accounts. The deposit will be refunded to your account when twelve consecutive payments by the due date are received. Meters are Town owned and water is billed on metered consumption and a flat rate.

Utility Bills may be paid by mail, at the Town Office cashiers, at most chartered banks, credit unions, trust companies and Treasury Branches. The Telpay bill payment service is available to pay water bills and taxes using your telephone or computer.

For further information on utility billing, please contact:

Town of Lacombe

5432 - 56 Avenue

Lacombe, Alberta T4L IE9

Phone: (403) 782-1265

Fax: (403) 782-5655

E-mail: mail@town.lacombe.ab.ca

Web Site: http://www.town.lacombe.ab.ca

WATER, SANITARY AND STORM SEWER

Fees are charged for service connections from the Town utility mains to the property lines of the development. Estimates of these costs can be obtained from the Engineering Department. Final locations and sizes of water, sanitary and storm services must be confirmed by the developer’s mechanical/plumbing contractor and submitted to the Engineering Department for approval, whereupon application for installations can be made. Total payment is required prior to scheduling.

Installation dates are normally scheduled seven to ten days after payment:

For more information, contact:

Town of Lacombe

5432 - 56 Avenue

Lacombe, Alberta T4L IE9

Phone: (403) 782-6666

Fax: (403) 782-5655

E-mail: mail@town.lacombe.ab.ca

Web Site: http://www.town.lacombe.ab.ca

ELECTRICAL SERVICE

For temporary or permanent electrical service connections, contact Epcor as early as possible before installation is required. In order for Epcor to prepare a cost estimate, they need to have a site plan showing the building location and electrical service locations as well as the size of electrical service required, as determined by the applicant’s electrician or electrical engineer. Fees are charged for service connections and they are payable before connection is made.

For more information on electrical service connections, contact:

Epcor

Customer Service Centre

Phone: 310-4300

GARBAGE

Fees are based on volume and frequency of service required.

For more information on garbage pick-up, contact:

Town of Lacombe

5432 - 56 Avenue

Lacombe, Alberta T4L IE9

          Phone:                    (403) 782-6666
          Fax:                       (403) 782-5655
          E-mail:            mail@town.lacombe.ab.ca

Web Site: http://www.town.lacombe.ab.ca

TRANSPORTATION

HIGHWAYS

For information on major or secondary routes and connections throughout Alberta, contact:

Regional Transportation Office

Alberta Transportation & Utilities

4th Floor, Provincial Building

4920 - 51 Street

Red Deer, Alberta T4N 6K8

Phone: (403) 340-5166

Fax: (403) 340-4876

E-mail: weditor@tugov.ab.ca

Web Site: http://www.tu.gov.ab.ca

RAILWAYS - FREIGHT SERVICES

A complete package of freight services to anywhere in the world is provided in Red Deer by CP Rail and CN Rail.

For further information, please contact

CP Rail Systems

Carload Rate: 1-888-406-5347

Carload Freight: (403) 346-2189

Yard Office: (403) 346-2182

Roadmaster: (403) 347-6102

CN Rail

Carload Rate: 1-888-668-4626

Carload Freight: 1-800-601-7630

Roadmaster: (403) 346-4015

AIRPORT

The Town of Lacombe owns the airport. The Lacombe Airport is located north-east of town on highway 2A. Facilities include: terminal, club house, non-directional beacon (NBD), medium intensity lights, Avgas 100LL, ARCAL -122.8 Unicom and asphalt runways.

Runway - #16/34 north-south – 3,000 feet Elevation 2,783 feet A.S.L.

The Calgary International Airport is located 165 km. south of Lacombe via Highway #2.

The Edmonton International Airport is located 100 km north of Lacombe via Highway #2.

TAXATION

All businesses operating in Alberta are subject to three levels of taxation: municipal, provincial and federal. Alberta is the only province in Canada that does not have a retail sales tax. Furthermore, Alberta has no succession duties and has one of the lowest corporate tax rates in Canada.

MUNICIPAL TAXATION

The property tax is based on the market value of the land plus buildings, times the mill rate established by Town Council. Assessments, and the resulting tax, reflect a twelve month period (January 1 - December 31). Tax notices are mailed in May and must be paid prior to June 30 to avoid late payment penalties. 2002 mill rates: residential 13.876, non-residential 15.91.

For more information, please contact:

Town of Lacombe

5432 - 56 Avenue

Lacombe, Alberta T4L IAl

Phone: (403) 782-6666

Fax: (403) 782-5655

E-mail: mail@town.lacombe.ab.ca

Web Site: http://www.town.lacombe.ab.ca

PROVINCIAL AND FEDERAL CORPORATE TAX

All corporate residents in Canada are subject to income tax levied upon income earned within the taxation year from all sources, worldwide.

The owners of proprietorships and partnerships are required to record earnings as self-employed income in their personal income tax return. Corporations are required to file a return separate from the owner’s personal tax return.

Corporations located in Alberta must submit separate income tax returns to the Federal government and to the Alberta government.

Foreign companies with individual or branches operating in Canada are liable for Canadian income tax on profits derived from their Canadian business operations. For further information on Alberta Corporate Tax, contact:

Alberta Treasury

Tax and Revenue Administration

Sir Frederick W. Haultain Building

9811 - 109 Street

Edmonton, Alberta T5K 2L5

Phone: (780) 427-3044

Fax: (780) 422-3770

E-mail: WebMaster@treas. gov. ab.ca

Web Site: http://www.treas.gov.ab.ca/tra

The Income Tax Division of Revenue Canada provides free booklets to help small businesses with their taxation responsibilities. They include: Starting a New Business; Books and Records; Filing Requirements; Taxpayer Services; Taxpayer Rights and Obligations; as well as supplementary guides for business income tax and Revenue Canada services. Revenue Canada also provides free seminars on varied tax topics at different times throughout the year.

For further information on federal taxes, remittances, deadlines, etc., contact:

Revenue Canada, Business Window

Main Floor, 9700 Jasper Avenue

Edmonton, Alberta T5J 4C8

Phone: (780) 495-3200 or 1-800-959-5525

Web Site: http://www.rc.gc.ca

GOODS AND SERVICES TAX

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a multi-level tax on consumption. It replaces the old Federal Sales Tax, which was levied at the manufacturer’s level, generally at the rate of 13.5%. The GST will apply to the majority of goods and services sold or provided in Canada at the rate of 7%. Some goods and services, such as basic groceries or exports are zero rated. Others, such as daycare and health care services, are exempt from the GST.

For detailed information on the GST, contact:

Revenue Canada

Client Tax Services

4996-49 Avenue

Red Deer, Alberta T4N 6X2

Phone: (403) 341-7006

Fax: (403) 341-7053

Web Site: http://www.rc.gc.ca

CUSTOMS SERVICES

Imported goods are subject to customs requirements and possible payment of customs duties and taxes.

For detailed information regarding the tariff classification of goods, invoicing requirements, import control and documentation requirements, contact:

Revenue Canada

Customs Border Services

Bay 32, 3033 - 34 Avenue, N.E.

Calgary, Alberta TIY 6X2

Phone: 1-800-461-9999

Fax: (403) 292-4840

Web Site: www.rc.gc.ca/vco

MANPOWER AND LABOUR

CANADA PENSION, INCOME TAX, EMPLOYMENT INSURANCE

Federal law requires that all employers collect and remit Canada Pension Plan contributions, Employment Insurance premiums and personal income tax, to the Government of Canada. Deductions for Employment Insurance premiums and Canada Pension Plan contributions are shared by the employee and employer.

For further information, contact:

Revenue Canada - Tax Service Office

2nd Floor, 4996 - 49 Avenue

Red Deer, Alberta T4N 1X8

Phone: (403) 341-7006

Web Site: http://www.rc.gc.cal

WAGES, HOURS OF WORK

Employment Standards of Alberta Labour is responsible for administering the labour standards provision under the Employment Standards Code. For information regarding wages, hours of work, vacations and general holiday pay, maternity leave, termination of employment and the employment of adolescents and young persons, contact:

Alberta Labour Client Services Division

Employment Standards

₂nd Floor, Provincial Building

4920 - 51 Street

Red Deer, Alberta T4N 6K8

Phone: (403) 340-5153

Fax: (403) 340-5210

Web Site: http://www.gov.ab.ca/Iab/whatlemplstd.html

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION

The majority of industries in Alberta are covered by the Workers’ Compensation Act, which provides for the compensation of workers who are injured during the course of their employment. Employers covered by the Act are responsible for assessment payments to the Workers’ Compensation Board. It is important that contact be made within 15 days of hiring workers/subcontractors in order to avoid possible penalties.

Some industries are exempt from Workers’ Compensation Insurance. Employers who operate in exempt industries may voluntarily apply to have Workers’ Compensation Insurance protect their workers. Employers and workers covered by voluntary accounts may be eligible for all of the benefits of Workers’ Compensation Insurance.

Before opening a WOB account, a complete description of your operation is required to determine the correct classification. The WCB classifies employers according to the industry(ies) in which they operate, not the occupations of workers. Please have this information available when contacting the WCB to open an account.

For further information, contact:

Workers’ Compensation Board

Employer Services

9912 - 107 Street

Edmonton, Alberta T5K I G4

Phone: (780) 498-4000

E-mail: employerwcb.ab@e-mail. com

Web Site: www.wcb.ab.ca

ALBERTA HEALTH INSURANCE PLAN

All employers with five or more eligible employees, owners and partners included, are required to form a group plan for payroll deduction of health care premiums. Once the group has been formed, it is the employers responsibility to cover all eligible employees and make the necessary payroll deductions on a monthly basis.

For further information, contact:

Alberta Health Insurance Plan

Head Office

10025 Jasper Avenue

Edmonton, Alberta T5J 2N3

Phone: (780) 427-1432

Fax: (780) 422-4482

Web Site: http ://www. health.gov. ab . ca/ahcip/index. htm

LABOUR DIVISION (ALBERTA)

The Mediation Services Branch of Alberta Labour is responsible for assisting in the prevention and resolution of labour/management disputes. It also administers a preventive mediation program designed to improve labour/management relations and promote the understanding and implementation of responsible collective bargaining policies and procedures.

For information regarding arbitration, or mediation, contact:

Mediation Service Branch

Alberta Labour

702, 10808 - 99 Avenue

Edmonton, Alberta T5K OGS

Phone: (780) 427-8301

Fax: (780) 427-6327

Web Site: http :Ilwww. gov. ab.ca/lab/whatlmediat. html

The Labour Relations Board is responsible for the interpretation and enforcement of the Labour Relations Code (statute regulating labour relations and collective bargaining in Alberta).

For information about the establishment of bargaining relationships between trade unions, employers and employees in the collective bargaining process, contact:

Labour Relations Board

Alberta Labour

3rd Floor, Deerfoot Junction , Tower 3

1212-31 Avenue, N.E.

Calgary, Alberta T2E 7S8

Phone: (403) 297-4334

Fax: (403) 297-5884

E-mail: alrbinfo@lab.gov.ab.ca

Web Site: http://www.gov.ab.ca/alrb

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS

There are six types of intellectual property in Canada:

· Patents are for inventions, that is, new kinds of technology.

· Copyrights are for literary, artistic, dramatic and musical works.

· Trademarks are words, symbols or pictures - or combinations of these - used to distinguish the goods or services of one person from those of another.

· Industrial designs are for the shape, pattern or ornamentation of an industrially produced object.

· Integrated circuit topographies refer to the three-dimensional configuration of the electronic circuits embodied in integrated circuit products or layout designs.

· Plant breeders¹rights apply to certain new plant varieties.

The Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) of Industry Canada is responsible for patents, copyrights, trademarks, industrial design and integrated circuit topographies. Plant breeders’ rights are the responsibility of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.

The CIPO has a network of partners, or intermediaries, across Canada. These innovation centers, provincial research organizations, industrial associations, universities, and other provincial and federal agencies can help you learn more about intellectual property. They assist researchers and small and medium-sized businesses by arranging lectures and information sessions. They also make arrangements for technological information searches. The CIPO can provide you with a list of these partners.

For more information on patents, copyrights, trademarks, industrial design or integrated circuit topographies, contact:

Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO)

Industry Canada

Place du Portage, Phase I

50 Victoria Street, I ₀th Floor

Hull, Quebec KIA 0C9

Phone: (819) 997-1936
Fax: (819) 953-7620

For more information on plant breeders’ rights, contact:

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

59 Camelot Drive

Nepean, Ontario KIA 0Y9

Phone: (613) 952-8000
Fax: (613) 992-5219

LABELLING

INDUSTRY CANADA, CONSUMER PRODUCTS

Consumer Products ensures factual product labeling information, accuracy of net quantity declarations and validity of claims on a wide variety of non-food products, textile articles and Precious Metals articles at all levels of trade. The objective is to provide the marketplace with sufficient accurate information to allow for informed choices. This is accomplished through inspection, investigation, product analysis and consumer and trader education.

The following Acts and Regulations are administered and enforced by Industry Canada, Consumer Products Directorate:

· The Consumer Packaging and Labeling Act and Regulations

· The Precious Metals Marking Act and Regulations

· The Textile Labeling Act and Regulations

· The Principles and Guidelines for Environmental Labeling and Advertising.

For further information, contact:

Industry Canada

Consumer Products

#400, 639 - 5 Avenue, S.W.

Calgary, Alberta T2R 0H3

Phone: (403) 292-6183

Fax: (403) 292-6175

Website: strategis.ic.gc.ca

UNIVERSAL PRODUCT CODE (UPC)

The Universal Product Code (UPC) is a 12-digit, all numeric machine readable code that identifies the consumer package. The code consists of a number system character, a five-digit manufacturer identification number, a 5-digit item code number and a check character.

The Grocery product Manufacturers of Canada will assist in assigning UPC codes for use in Canada and the United States. Products exported to the United States uses an identical UPC code.

Contact:

Electronic Commerce Council of Canada

Suite 301, 885 Don Mills Road

Don Mills, Ontario M3C 1V9

Phone: (416) 510-8039 or 1-800-567-7084

Fax: (416) 510-8043

E-mail: infor~eccc.org

Web Site: http://www.eccc.org

CANADIAN STANDARDS ASSOCIATION

The Canadian Standards Association is an autonomous non-governmental body established for the purpose of developing uniform nation-wide standards on products, processes and procedures. For application for CSA certification or further information, contact:

Western Region Office

CSA Testing Laboratory

1707 - 94 Street

Edmonton, Alberta T6N 1 E6

Phone: (780) 450-2111
Fax: (780) 435-0998

Web Site: http://www.csa.ca

HEALTH REGULATIONS

Environmental Health Services, David Thompson Health Region, is an approving authority to the following types of businesses: waste management facilities, land treatment facilities, pet stores, food establishments (all operations involving food), personal care facilities (hair salons, aesthetics and massage studios), recreational facilities (swimming pools, whirlpools and fitness clubs), institutions (jails, schools, group homes, acute and long-term care facilities), child care facilities and home occupations.

For more information on regulations, policies and approvals, contact:

Environmental Health Services

David Thompson Health Region

2845 Bremner Avenue

Red Deer, Alberta T4R 152

Phone: (403) 341-2155

Fax: (403) 341-2188

CANADIAN FOOD INSPECTION AGENCY

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is an agency of the Canadian government who works with consumers, industries and other government agencies to build one of the safest food systems in the world. Their goal is to help build a thriving and competitive agri-food and seafood industry by monitoring the health, safety and quality of Canada’s agricultural, fish and food products.

Canada’s safety standards protect human, animal and plant health. Health Canada sets the human health and safety standards, CFIA’s job is to enforce those standards. They work with both provincial and municipal governments to ensure that food growers and producers are complying with the safety standards.

CFIA has over 4,500 employees including inspectors, veterinarians, agrologists, scientists, laboratory technicians and support staff to Canadians at border crossings, in laboratories, at production facilities, in processing plants and at over 200 offices across in the country.

For further information, contact:

Canadian Food Inspection Agency

Alberta Regional Office

220 - 4th Avenue S.E., Room 654

Calgary, AB T2G 4X3

Phone: (403) 292-4301 or 292-5823

Fax: (403) 292-5707

E-mail: cfiamaster@em.agr.ca

Web Site: http://www.cfia-acia.agr.ca/

HEALTH CANADA, HEALTH PROTECTION BRANCH

The Health Protection Branch of Health Canada enforces the Food and Drug Act and regulations (pertains to all food manufactured and sold in Canada).

They investigate food safety, including food additive levels, microbiological quality and other potential health hazards. Health Canada is also responsible for the inspection of food manufacturing facilities, investigating consumer/trade complaints, monitoring and sampling of food products and imports.

For further information, contact:

Health Canada

Health Protection Branch

840, 9700 Jasper Avenue

Edmonton, Alberta T5J 4C3

Phone: (780) 495-2626
Fax: (780) 495-2624

Web Site: http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca

ALBERTA AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT

MARKETING SERVICES DIVISION

The Marketing Services Division of Alberta Agriculture Food and Rural Development inspects and registers abattoirs in accordance with provincial meat hygiene regulations. They also inspect processed meat and poultry products for sale in Alberta.

For further information, contact:

Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development

Marketing Services Division

Livestock Marketing Services Branch

300, 7003- 113 Street

Edmonton, Alberta T6H 5T6

Phone: (780) 427-4241
Fax: (780) 422-9746

Web Site: http://www.agric.gov.ab.ca

ALBERTA AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT, DAIRY PROCESSING SECTION

The Dairy Processing section of Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development administers regulatory functions pertaining to the Dairy Industry Act and references other government agencies. This section tests pasturizer units within processing plants on a yearly basis, monitors finished product quality and issues provincial licences for plants, bulk milk haulers, pasturizer operators, and milk and cream graders and testers. They also assist the federal government with yearly federal plant in-depth inspections.

For further information, contact:

Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development

Food Quality Branch

Dairy Processing Section

6909- 116 Street

Edmonton, Alberta T6H 4P2

Phone: (780) 427-4054

Fax: (780) 436-9454

Web Site: http://www.agric.gov.ab.ca

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

Environmental Protection legislation and regulations cover waste management, air and water pollution, water management, pesticide use and land disturbances and reclamation. Any firm planning to move or establish a company in Lacombe that may have an impact on the air, water or land environment should contact:

Alberta Environmental Protection

Environmental Impact Assessment Review Branch

11th Floor, 9915- 108 Street

Edmonton, Alberta T5K 2G1

Phone: (780) 422-5136

Web Site: http://www.gov.ab.ca/dept/env. html

LACOMBE FACTS

Population Trends Municipal Government

1990 6,471 Town of Lacombe

1992 7,056 5432 – 56 Avenue

1994 7,580 Lacombe, AB T4L 1E9

1997 8,200 Phone: 403 782-6666

1998 8,500 Fax: 403 782-5655

2001 (census) 9,384 E-mail: mail@town.lacombe.ab.ca

Web Site: www.town.lacombe.ab.ca