Alberta’s 2025 budget earmarks billions for workforce training, early learning, and business investment as the province looks to address economic uncertainty and population growth. The spending plan includes new funding for apprenticeship programs, childcare expansion, and incentives to attract corporate investment—key issues for employers, HR professionals, and business leaders.
Workforce training and job creation
The province is allocating $135 million for skilled trade programs, including apprenticeships and adult learning initiatives, aiming to equip Albertans with in-demand skills. Post-secondary education funding will reach $7.4 billion, with $78 million per year over three years to expand apprenticeship seats.
Another $26.1 billion from the Capital Plan will support infrastructure projects expected to generate 26,500 direct and 12,000 indirect jobs annually through 2027-28.
“Budget 2025 carves our path forward in the face of uncertainty,” said Nate Horner, President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance.
Childcare expansion to support workforce participation
To ease access to work and training opportunities for parents, Alberta is committing $2 billion in 2025-26 to expand early learning and childcare. The investment supports the province’s goal of increasing affordable childcare spaces and workforce participation, particularly for women.
Business investment and corporate tax policy
Budget 2025 continues Alberta’s focus on attracting business investment through low corporate tax rates and targeted incentive programs. The corporate income tax rate remains at eight per cent—30 per cent lower than the next lowest province. Additionally, $45 million over three years will go into the Investment and Growth Fund to attract businesses to Alberta.
Support for small- and medium-sized enterprises includes incentives through the Alberta Innovation Employment Grant and funding for research and development in the agricultural and energy sectors.
Economic outlook and fiscal management
The budget forecasts a $5.2-billion deficit for 2025-26, largely due to declining non-renewable resource revenue and increased spending on health care, education, and social programs. While total revenue is expected to decline from $80.7 billion in 2024-25 to $74.1 billion in 2025-26, it is projected to rebound to $80 billion by 2027-28, driven by income tax growth and economic diversification.
Implications for HR professionals and business leaders
For HR professionals, the budget’s focus on workforce development and childcare could ease talent shortages by increasing skilled labour supply and workforce participation. Business leaders may benefit from Alberta’s continued commitment to low corporate taxes and investment incentives.
While the budget includes significant investments in infrastructure, health care, and education, economic uncertainty—particularly potential trade disruptions and declining oil prices—remains a key challenge.
