Aerial view ofdowntown

Supporting made-in-Edmonton ideas that help innovative companies start and grow.

The City as a Lab program supports the local innovation ecosystem by helping businesses test their technology within a real-world setting using City-owned assets.

We’re looking to work with Edmonton-based businesses that want to test an innovation, technology or process that is not widely available in Edmonton and has the potential to improve the work of the City. Businesses will gain access to City sites, infrastructure, data and subject-matter experts.

Please note: All projects under this program are unpaid, and the participating business is responsible for covering implementation costs.

Building evidence that your solution works on a City scale

Validate your innovation in a real-world, operational environment and create a case study to be used in marketing to future clients or investors.

Developing key relationships to help your pilot succeed

Access to subject-matter expertise helps businesses get tailored feedback, gain understanding of client needs and build connections that can be vital for long-term sales strategies.

Learning how to work with large public-sector clients

Our team guides you through approvals and logistics to keep pilots moving quickly and predictably while giving you insights into municipal procurement policies.

"Technology North Digital Services (TNDS) owes much of its growth and national recognition to the early support and vision of the City of Edmonton’s City as a Lab program. Their collaborative and forward-thinking approach created the bridge between TNDS and the Edmonton Police Service, a connection that became the foundation for one of Canada’s most innovative public-private partnerships in digital inclusion."

— Ling Huang, CEO, Technology North Digital Services

Interested in learning more about the program eligibility and requirements?

We are currently accepting applications to the City as a Lab program. Check out our program guide to learn more. 

Ready to Get Involved?


Contact the program team at cityasalab@edmonton.ca.