27th August 2024
A Guide to Coworking in Calgary
A Guide to Coworking in Calgary
For businesses of all types, coworking in Calgary offers the benefits of a thriving metropolitan city in a safe, friendly, and relaxed environment.
Combining this with its booming economy, desirable location, low taxes, and entrepreneurial spirit, it’s no wonder many businesses are calling the largest city in Alberta home.
Recently, there has been a significant shift towards more flexible and collaborative work environments. Thanks to evolving work trends, such as remote and hybrid working schemes, there is a growing demand for coworking spaces in Calgary.
The city has embraced this shift, offering alternative office spaces that accommodate changing work patterns and an increase in professional collaboration.
Along with the advantages of living in a city like Calgary, more people are choosing to embrace shared workspaces to start or grow their businesses in these modern and fast-moving times.
In this article, we look at why Calgary is an ideal location for shared office options. We also share details of some of the best office spaces that Regus offers.
Geography of Calgary
Calgary was ranked as the third most liveable city in the world in 2022. The city is unique, thanks to opportunities, low cost of living, low taxes, as well as its proximity to the Rockies.
Calgary is a city booming with job potential. It’s home to 118 of Canada’s largest corporate headquarters, a growing film industry, and is the center of Canada’s oil and gas industry.
The city’s also becoming known as a tech hub, with big names such as Amazon, Google, and IBM setting up shop.
Some of the top employers in Calgary include:
Calgary West Central Primary Care Network
Imperial Oil Limited
Suncor Energy
Canadian Pacific Railway
University of Calgary
Shaw Communication
Enbridge Inc.
Western Financial Group Inc.
Calgary’s neighborhoods are connected via an extensive urban pathway and bike network. This makes it convenient to explore the city by walking, cycling, or even jogging.
For public transport, affordable and accessible options include a light rail train system and plenty of bus routes.
The innovative Plus 15 Skywalk is great for traveling around the city during winter. This impressive indoor walkway spans almost 10 miles and is the largest covered skywalk in the world.
There are also close to 20,000 acres of parks and green spaces to discover. This allows for lots of opportunities to enjoy a spot of nature without having to leave Calgary itself.
7 Benefits of establishing your company in Calgary
According to a report by Statistics of Canada, Calgary is among the top five cities in the country for business optimism. It’s suggested that business expectations are rising, thanks to provincial growth and fewer closures.
Other factors include increased access to the capital, fewer business closures, and a growing consumer base. The results show the city is transforming into an exciting business hub, as it’s being seen as a magnet for investment, talent, and opportunity.
A report by Calgary Economic Development conducted in 2023 found that 61% of workers agreed it’s a good place to build a career.
Below, we’ll explore some more of the benefits of establishing your company here, and why coworking in Calgary could be the solution you’ve been looking for.
1. Stable economy and low taxes
Low tax rates are among the main factors driving business owners and entrepreneurs to start or grow a business in Calgary. Canada in general boasts one of the lowest tax rates globally at 15%.
Alberta also has the lowest corporate income tax rate in Canada at 8% and only 5% Federal Goods and Services Tax. This makes coworking in Calgary attractive to both locals and foreigners.
Calgary has a lower cost of living compared to most other cities in Canada, with the biggest factor being the cheaper housing and rental prices.
Not only that, it also ranks among the top cities across Canada for healthcare, entertainment, culture, and stability.
2. Supportive business environment
Calgary offers a supportive business environment for companies of all sizes, with access to a cost-competitive market and improved capital.
The SME market is thriving, and the concentration of these businesses in the city has increased over the last five years. Alberta in general offers one-to-one business support programs, which offer business owners a dedicated point of contact.
This assistance provides entrepreneurs access to a wealth of benefits, resources, and expert guidance.
It’s a city that embraces small businesses. Around 95% of enterprises, from agriculture and tech to financial services and the energy sector, are classed as such.
3. Growing digital transformation
If you want to expand your tech business, Calgary is a great place to help make it happen.
More than $2.5 billion in venture capital funding has been invested in Alberta companies since 2019, according to data from the Canadian Venture Capital & Private Equity Association.
Over the past five years, Alberta technology companies have secured more than $2.7 billion in venture capital funding across 350 deals. This has led to the creation of thousands of jobs and opportunities within the tech industry.
The city’s digital transformation is expected to grow, indicating a strong investment in technology and innovation within the business community.
4. Diverse and varied economy
Although branded an oil and gas town, Calgary has grown across various industries. These include real estate, agribusiness, financial services, and the creative sectors.
Thanks to Alberta’s hub as an agricultural leader, agribusiness is an expanding industry in Calgary.
It’s becoming a leader in several aspects, such as primary production, protein development, animal health, agriculture technology innovation, and food safety. As such, Calgary is a leader in Canadian and global food and technology suppliers.
The strong financial sector is also driving the growth of fintech firms across the city. Due to its capital-intensive companies, high-deal velocity, foreign investments, and individual wealth, it’s an attractive market for businesses that specialize in finance.
5. Economic growth leader
Calgary offers opportunities for all to build the career of their dreams. This is due to industry-leading companies and a diverse economy that promotes a stable and growing business environment.
According to the Conference Board of Canada, Calgary remains an economic growth leader, which experienced resilient economic growth in 2023.
This was supported by robust crude oil production, exports in the province, strong energy sector cashflows, solid consumer spending, and residential investment.
Calgary is expected to experience notable GDP growth over the years, underlining its economic vitality.
6. Entrepreneurial spirit
Calgary is also a hub of entrepreneurial spirit, making coworking a great option for any start-up.
It’s an innovative city and is the first and only municipality in Canada to allow small businesses to start entirely online. Despite the challenges of the pandemic, the city has retained high levels of business that have begun locally.
Calgary also has one of the highest rates of self-employment in Canada, making it a top destination for entrepreneurs.
The city also champions the growth of new businesses. The Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund was set up to distribute $100 million to companies supporting innovation in critical sectors.
7. Entertainment and culture in Calgary
When it comes to looking for a shared office in Calgary, you couldn’t find yourself among friendlier people.
According to Conde Nast Traveler’s 2023 Reader’s Choice, Calgary is the friendliest city in the world, coming ahead of places like Dublin and even Quebec. It’s also the third most diverse city in Canada, with 120 languages spoken.
The city’s eclectic and vibrant mix of restaurants, galleries, museums, and theaters enriches Calgary’s cultural scene, attracting creative enthusiasts from across the globe.
With renowned festivals and events, including the Calgary International Film Festival, Calgary Folk Music Festival, and the Calgary Stampede, it's a city packed with plenty of entertainment events throughout the year.
If you’re a food lover, then Calgary is the place to be, thanks to its variety of award-winning restaurants and multicultural dining spots. There are also more than 40 unique breweries scattered throughout.
This, combined with the wealth of parks, bars, and other networking hotspots, makes it a great city for those looking to set up a business, entertain clients, and get to know other professionals.
How much are coworking memberships in Calgary?
Coworking space in Calgary depends on several factors. Due to Calgary's low cost of living, you can expect to pay less for these spaces than in other major cities.
A shared office in Calgary can start as low as CAD 255 to CAD 385 per month, whereas in larger cities like Toronto and Montreal, these can cost up to CAD 545.
With flexible terms and amenities included, such as WiFi and furniture taken care of, coworking in Calgary is a strong choice for anyone looking to improve their business productivity.
The best coworking spaces in Calgary
At Regus, we have a wide variety of shared office space for rent in Calgary, available in prime areas of the city.
Enjoy working alongside other professionals and using state-of-the-art facilities via hot desking options, open-plan workspaces, or renting a desk in a shared office.
Below, we discuss some of the best workspace solutions in Calgary, so you can choose what’s right for you.
Best coworking space for startups in Calgary - 903 8th Avenue SW
Located in the heart of Calgary’s business district, 903 8th Avenue SW offers coworking in Calgary in a contemporary location that’s also conveniently close to nearby bus stops.
The sleek and modern style of this business center boasts break-out areas, meeting rooms, and shared office space.
The floor-to-ceiling windows allow natural light to flood in, and the on-site café and gym offer the opportunity to take a break and reflect on your work.
When you’re finished for the day, you can head out into Downtown Calgary and enjoy the vibrant culture, entertainment, and restaurant scene.
Highlights include:
Break-out areas
Major transport links
Meeting rooms
Information about 903 8th Avenue SW
Location: 903-8th Ave SW, Calgary, AB, T2P 0P7
Starting costs: From CAD 255 per month
Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Offices and Dedicated Desks; Memberships access during reception hours
Nearby transport links: NB 8 St SW Bus Stop (a one-minute walk away), EB 9 AV SW Bus Stop (a four-minute walk away), 8th Street SW Light Rail Station (a six-minute walk away)
Best coworking space for networking in Calgary - Bankers Hall
Connected to other major offices through the Plus 15 skywalk network, Bankers Hall is an ideal spot for enjoying the perks of coworking in Calgary.
Network with multinationals in the energy industry and beyond with break-out areas, meeting rooms, and a stylish business lounge.
The modern, well-lit office allows you to rub elbows with other professionals or meet up with clients, thanks to its excellent location close to bus and train links.
When you need a little downtime, you can take advantage of the on-site gym or go for a walk in Prince’s Island Park on the Bow River.
Highlights include:
Vending machines
Break-out areas
Business park location
Information about Bankers Hall
Location: 888 3rd Street, Calgary, AB, T2P 5CS
Starting costs: From CAD 349 per month
Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Offices and Dedicated Desks; Memberships access during reception hours
Nearby transport links: EB 3 St SW Train Station (a one-minute walk away), EB 9 Av SW Bus Stop (a two-minute walk away), NB 1 St SW Bus Stop (a six-minute walk away)
Best coworking space for remote workers in Calgary - TELUS Sky
Impress clients, network with other professionals, and make your mark from TELUS Sky. This stunning, modern office located within a 59-storey skyscraper is a focal point of Downtown Calgary.
As you work, you’ll find inspiration from the beautiful views of the city, thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows.
This is the ideal shared office space for remote workers, as you can rent a dedicated desk, opt for day coworking, or enjoy a coworking membership.
Enjoy patios on each floor, an 11-story living wall, health food vendors on-site, and an exclusive fitness facility.
Highlights include:
Major transport links
Business lounge
Break-out areas
Information about TELUS Sky
Location: 685 Centre Street SW, Calgary, AB, T2G 5P6
Starting costs: From CAD 385 per month
Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Offices and Dedicated Desks; Memberships access during reception hours
Nearby transport links: EB 7 Ave SW Bus Stop (a one-minute walk away), WB 1 Street SW Train Station (a one-minute walk away), WB 6 Ave SW Bus Stop (a two-minute walk away)
Best coworking space for small teams in Calgary - 6815 8th Street
If you want a professional, convenient, and stylish shared workspace in Calgary for your small team, look no further than 6815 8th Street.
Just a five-minute commute from Calgary International Airport and close to several public transport links, this contemporary office space is great for meeting up with co-workers and clients.
The bright and modern design of 6815 8th Street offers fully equipped meeting rooms, break-out areas, coworking spaces, and private offices, so you can work together or independently.
Away from the hustle and bustle of Downtown Calgary, you’ll find relaxing spots in the office when you need a little downtime.
Take a break in the inner atrium and garden, complete with plants, natural light, and furniture so you can recharge before getting back to what’s important.
Highlights include:
Major transport links
Meeting rooms
Break-out areas
Information about 6815 8th Street
Location: 6815-8th Street NE, Calgary, AB, T2E 7H7
Starting costs: From CAD 339 per month
Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Offices and Dedicated Desks; Memberships access during reception hours
Nearby transport links: NB 8 St NE Bus Stop (a one-minute walk away), SB 8 St NE Bus Stop (a two-minute walk away), WB 64 Av NE Bus Stop (an eight-minute walk away)
Best coworking space for entrepreneurs and freelancers in Calgary - Calgary Place
For freelancers and entrepreneurs, a shared office in Calgary offers the opportunity to work on your business, network with other professionals, and be free from the distractions of working from home.
Calgary Place, situated in the buzzing business district, is a dynamic location set within two towers. You’ll find a bright interior with an on-site coffee shop, client parking, and a comfortable lounge area for relaxed meetings.
When you’re finished for the day, head outside and enjoy the wide range of restaurants, bars, and cafés that are just a short walk away.
Highlights include:
Meeting rooms
Parking
On-site lunch restaurant
Information about Calgary Place
Location: 330 5th Avenue SW, Calgary, AB, T2P 0L4
Starting costs: From CAD 349 per month
Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Offices and Dedicated Desks; Memberships access during reception hours
Nearby transport links: EB 5 Ave SW Bus Stop (a one-minute walk away), WB 4 Av SW Bus Stop (a three-minute walk away), EB 3 Street SW Train Station (a four-minute walk away)
Most accessible coworking space in Calgary - Canada Trust
Canada Trust is located in the heart of the Core, the city’s commercial hub. This iconic 53-storey skyscraper offers stunning views across the city.
Inside, you’ll find light and contemporary offices, break-out areas, and coworking spaces. All are fully equipped so you can concentrate on growing your business with everything you need.
You’ll also find excellent transport links right outside, with the nearby C Train station and plenty of bus stops running throughout.
This allows quick and easy access to and from your office space, while local shopping and dining hot spots make for ideal post-work activities.
Highlights include:
24-hour CCTV monitoring
Business lounge
Disabled facilities
Information about Canada Trust
Location: South West, Calgary, AB, T2P 4K9
Starting costs: From CAD 309 per month
Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Offices and Dedicated Desks; Memberships access during reception hours
Nearby transport links: NB 4 St SW Bus Stop (a one-minute walk away), WB 4 Street SW Train Station (a one-minute walk away), SB 5 St SW (a four-minute walk away)
Coworking space with the best transport options in Calgary - Crowfoot Centre
If you’re looking for coworking space in Calgary that offers some of the best transport options, the environmentally-friendly Crowfoot Centre offers just what you need.
Catch up with co-workers, hold meetings, and take advantage of the impressive videoconferencing studio in this certified green office. You’ll find accessible road, bus, and rail links to the city center, as well as the Crowfoot Mall across the street.
You can relax and recharge on the private terrace when you’re not working in the many office and hot desk spaces that are available.
Highlights include:
Business lounge
Break-out areas
Secure underground parking
Information about Crowfoot Centre
Location: 600 Crowfoot Crescent North West, Calgary, AB, T3G 0B4
Starting costs: From CAD 349 per month
Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Offices and Dedicated Desks; Memberships access during reception hours
Nearby transport links: NB Crowfoot CR Bus Stop (a one-minute walk away), WB Crowfoot CR Bus Stop (a two-minute walk away), Crowfoot Train Station (a 12-minute walk away)
Coworking space with the best parking in Calgary - One Executive Place
One Executive Place is a flexible working hub minutes from the city’s university and is ideal if you’re commuting to your shared office in Calgary by car.
Set within a business park, the modern blue glass of the building’s exterior sets the tone for the internal environment. If you’re entertaining clients or investors, there’s a convenient on-site restaurant and coffee bar.
When the weather is on your side, head to the outdoor patio for something more informal. There is also a comfortable lounge, break-out areas, and meeting rooms to work in.
Once you’ve finished for the day, or if you need a break, there’s a nearby park to take a stroll around.
Highlights include:
24-hour CCTV monitoring
Business lounge
Business park location
Information about One Executive Place
Location: 1816 Crowchild Trail North West, Calgary, AB, T2M 3Y7
Starting costs: From CAD 299 per month
Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Offices and Dedicated Desks; Memberships access during reception hours
Nearby transport links: Banff Trail Train Station (a seven-minute walk), WB 16 Av NW Bus Stop (an 11-minute walk)
Discover coworking offices in Calgary with Regus
With the boom of remote jobs and the rise of flexible working arrangements, coworking spaces in Calgary have never been so popular.
If you’re keen to explore the benefits of working in this thriving city, now is a great time to explore the many options of a shared office space in Calgary.
To discover more about how Regus could help you find what you need, contact our expert team today, who will be happy to answer any questions you have.
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