Starting a wellness business in Alberta presents a promising opportunity, given the province’s increasing focus on health and well-being. Here are some tips to help you in the wellness entrepreneurial journey.
Disclaimer: Regulations are subject to change. Always consult the latest resources from the Government of Alberta to stay compliant.
Understanding the Wellness Industry Landscape
The global wellness economy reached $6.3 trillion in 2023 and is projected to grow to nearly $9.0 trillion by 2028. In Canada alone, this market was valued at USD 128 billion in 2022. This upward trend reflects a significant opportunity for new entrepreneurs in Alberta’s wellness sector.
Key Steps to Starting Your Wellness Business
- Research and Planning: Begin by identifying your niche within the wellness industry—be it a yoga studio, nutrition coaching, or a holistic wellness center. Conduct thorough market research to understand your target audience and assess the competitive landscape in Alberta. Business link can help you with our free secondary market research services.
- Business Registration and Legal Requirements: Register your business name with the Alberta government and obtain a Business Number from the Canada Revenue Agency. Depending on your services, you may need specific licenses or permits, such as health and safety certifications. For example, if your wellness business involves personal services—such as esthetics, tattooing, or body piercing— you must notify Alberta Health Services (AHS) before commencing operations. AHS provides a checklist to help you meet health and safety standards, including proper sanitation, equipment sterilization, and facility requirements.
- Certification and Training: Ensure you have the necessary qualifications for your region or city. For instance, massage therapists in Calgary must be registered with a Massage Practitioner License and be a member in good standing with one of the recognized provincial massage associations.
- Location and Setup: Decide whether to operate from a physical location or offer online services. Consider factors like accessibility, visibility, and proximity to your target market when choosing a location.
- Financing Your Wellness Business: Explore various financing options, including personal savings, bank loans, or government grants. Check out Business Link’s helpful article about Financing Your Business.
Leveraging Local Resources
Alberta offers numerous resources to support entrepreneurs:
- Business Link: We provide free advisory services, market research, and training programs tailored for new business owners.
- Grants and Funding: The Business Benefits Finder is a great place to start. We also have a helpful article about Financing your Business to get you started.
- Networking Opportunities: Engage with local chambers of commerce and industry associations to build connections and gain insights. For example, a yoga studio owner could attend an event hosted by the Yoga Association of Alberta.
Navigating Challenges and Embracing Trends in Wellness
The wellness industry is dynamic, with trends such as mental wellness, healthy eating, and fitness gaining prominence. Staying informed about these trends can help you tailor your services to meet evolving consumer demands. The Global Wellness Institute has some great data to get you started, along with the Government of Canada’s Industry Statistics.
Learning from Success Stories
Consider the journey of HOM of Well Being in Daysland, Alberta. Utilizing Business Link’s free resources, Shirley Damberger, a registered massage therapist and educator, transformed her expertise into a thriving wellness center during the challenges of the 2020 pandemic. By offering services like oncology massage, reflexology, and locally made wellness products, Shirley has built a community-focused space that empowers clients to take control of their health. Her success showcases the power of adaptability, community engagement, and leveraging local resources to create a meaningful and impactful business.
Taking the Next Step
Embarking on this entrepreneurial journey requires careful planning and support. Business Link’s Business Launch Program offers personalized guidance, helping you define your business concept, conduct market research, and develop a robust business plan.
By leveraging available resources and staying attuned to industry trends, you’re well on your way to establishing a successful wellness business in Alberta.
Sources
Global Wellness Institute, 2024 Global Wellness Economy Monitor [2024]
Grand View Research, Canada Corporate Wellness Market [2023]
Alberta Health Services, Opening Personal Services Business Checklist [2020]
Government of Alberta, Licensing and Registering Your Business [2022]
City of Calgary, Massage Practitioner Licensing [2024]
Yoga Association of Canada, Yoga Association of Alberta [2024]
Global Wellness Institute, Wellness Economy Sectors Performance 2019-2023 [2024]
Global Wellness Institute, The Global Wellness Economy: Canada [2023]
