You might be surprised to learn that many iconic Canadian food brands and restaurant chains got their start right here in Alberta. That’s right, some of the most well-loved names in food, both in grocery aisles and on menus across the country, are Alberta-born.
When you think about your favourite places to eat (maybe it’s a pizza night with the family, your go-to coffee shop, or the perogies you always keep stocked in your freezer), do you ever stop and think, “Where did this all begin?”
Let’s talk about a few…
Alberta: Where Food Giants Get Their Start
First, let’s take a moment to recognize just how deep Alberta’s roots run in the food and hospitality industry.
- Boston Pizza, now a household name nationwide, began in Edmonton in 1964.
- Earls, another Canadian favourite, was founded in Edmonton in 1982.
- Original Joe’s was founded in Calgary in 1998 and became known for its laid-back, neighbourhood vibe.
- Good Earth Coffeehouse started brewing in Calgary in 1991.
- Cinnzeo, famous for its gooey cinnamon rolls, opened its first bakery in Calgary in 1987.
- Even fast food favourites like Edo Japan (founded in 1979 by Reverend Susumu Ikuta), OPA! of Greece (first opened by Niko Tiginagas in Calgary’s Market Mall in 1998), and Buster’s Pizza (founded in Edmonton in 2001) started in our province.
These businesses didn’t start out as giants. They began as dreams… dreams backed by passion, grit, and a whole lot of hard work. And those dreams found fertile ground right here in Alberta.
Homeground Brands in Your Local Grocery Store
It’s not just the restaurant scene that’s thriving. Alberta is also home to food producers whose products now line grocery store shelves across the country.
- Cheemo, the classic perogie brand beloved across the Prairies, was launched in Edmonton in 1972 by Walter and Eileen Makowecki.
- Siwin Foods, founded in 2004 and based in Edmonton, produces some of your favourite potstickers and dumplings, along with marinated meats and a variety of sausages. Not only do they feed Canadian families, but they also export to the U.S. and Japan, bringing Alberta flavour to the world.
- The Little Potato Company, now a household name for spud-lovers, was founded in 1996 by Angela Santiago and her father, Jacob Vander Schaaf.
- Crave Cupcakes, which opened its first bakery in Calgary in 2004, now sells cake mixes and frosting in major grocery chains.
- Inspired Greens, which first opened in Coaldale, and Pik-n-Pak Produce Ltd. in Lacombe/Gull Lake, are just two examples of Albertan greenhouses that help feed not only Albertans, but Canadians from coast to coast.
Alberta isn’t just keeping up, it’s leading. And it’s doing it with fresh ideas, innovative minds, and a strong entrepreneurial spirit.
Alberta: A Place for Dreamers and Doers
All of this proves one thing: Alberta is a great place to start a food business. We have the passion, the land, the resources, and the community support to grow something real and lasting.
Community Futures Wild Rose is proud to serve the entrepreneurs who are bringing flavour and innovation to our region. Whether you’re dreaming of launching a rural bakery, food truck, greenhouse, catering business, specialty food product, or dine-in destination, we believe in your vision.
That’s why we offer:
- Low-interest, flexible loans up to $300,000
- Free business coaching and personalized guidance
- Hands-on support from people who understand rural business realities
We’re not just lenders, we’re your partners.
Think Big. Shop Local. Start Here.
We all know the importance of shopping local. It strengthens our economy, supports our neighbours, and keeps our communities vibrant. But what’s equally important is encouraging local entrepreneurs.
So if you’ve got a recipe, an idea, a flavour, or a vision you’ve been holding onto, this is your sign: Take the leap.
Alberta has always been a place where small ideas become big names. Who’s to say your product, food brand, or restaurant won’t be the next household name people are surprised to learn started right here?
Let’s make it happen.
Connect with our team at Community Futures Wild Rose and let’s grow your business together.
