About the Alberta Business Family Institute

Alberta Business Family Institute - More Than Advising Services

The Alberta Business Family Institute (ABFI) was conceived through the collaborative efforts of a group of Alberta business families, members of the Alberta School of Business at the University of Alberta, and founders of the Business Families Foundation. These motivated parties identified the need to offer research-based educational programs to family-owned businesses in Alberta.

Built on the principle that family enterprise is the heart of the Alberta economy, this unique partnership provides knowledge and skill enhancement opportunities that foster the continued success of family-based organizations. ABFI supports family business advising –by families and for families. It creates a direct link between business families and the research and study of family-owned business at an international level, as well as at the Alberta School of Business at the University of Alberta, Centre for Entrepreneurship and Family Enterprise.

This video was co-produced in partnership with the Business Families Foundation


The University of Alberta School of Business offers student courses and a major/minor directly related to Family Enterprise. These courses are offered out of the Department of Strategic Management and Organization in conjunction with the Centre for Entrepreneurship and Family Enterprise (CEFE).

Generously endowed by an anonymous donor and supported by RBC Financial Group, the Centre for Entrepreneurship & Family Enterprise pursues a mandate to develop and disseminate knowledge regarding the management of family enterprise through research, teaching and service.

CEFE also works closely with the Alberta Business Family Institute, which provides outreach educational programs for business families.

Family Business Consulting Services from Experts in the Field

Supported by respected and accomplished family business owners and experts, the Alberta Business Family Institute provides business education programs and family business consulting services designed specifically for family members engaged in private enterprise.

In addition to promoting dialogue among peers in a supportive and trusting environment, ABFI assists professionals in gaining a better understanding of the challenges unique to business families. Through alliances with the Family Enterprise XChange (FEX), the Business Families Foundation, and other organizations worldwide, ABFI provides direct access to essential tools and resources, as well as outreach programs for families and advisors.

Family-Owned Business - The Heart of the Alberta Economy

The Alberta Business Family Institute recognises the importance of family-owned businesses to our communities and our economy. Family business owners and operators are essential the business climate of our province, and ABFI is committed to securing the future of Alberta business families through specialized resources, education, and support services.

We thank the generosity and vision of our patrons

  • Ron Mannix
  • Sandy Mactaggart
  • Stanley Milner