The office was established through a partnership involving Industry Canada, the National Research Council of Canada, Environment Canada, Alberta Environmental Protection and Alberta Economic Development and Tourism, Alberta Research Council, the Calgary Economic Development Authority, the Canadian Environmental Technology Advancement Corporation West, the Canadian Council for Human Resources in the Environmental Industry, Economic Development Edmonton, the Environmental Services Association of Alberta, Western Economic Diversification, the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, and the Canadian International Development Agency. The Internet site is designed like an office, complete with front door, nameplates on desks, halls and personnel. Featuring direct e-mail access to virtual office staff, the office will save money, eliminate duplication and provide a streamlined source of information. The Alberta Environment Industry Virtual Office brings together, on one electronic site, the ingredients necessary to support corporate success - people, information, and partnership between the private and public sectors. The Virtual Office enables environment companies to quickly locate information and obtain advice on research and development, domestic and international markets, investment and financing, and human resources, including training.
Information is centralized, low-cost and easily accessible.