Bitumen Partial Upgrading Program

For companies working with Alberta’s oil sands, the cost and complexity of moving raw bitumen to market can be a major constraint on competitiveness. Large volumes of diluent are often required just to transport bitumen by pipeline, and additional processing is needed before it becomes usable fuel or materials. The Bitumen Partial Upgrading Program addresses this challenge by supporting technologies that increase the value of each barrel while also reducing emissions and reliance on diluent.

Delivered by Alberta Innovates, this program focuses on partial upgrading solutions that improve bitumen quality earlier in the value chain. These technologies can lower transportation costs, create better feedstocks for downstream uses, and open the door to non-combustion applications such as asphalt binders or advanced materials like carbon fibre. Projects typically sit in the mid-stages of technology development, where ideas are moving beyond the lab and toward real-world validation. Funding is non-repayable and varies by project, helping offset the cost of development, piloting, and collaboration with industry or research partners.

With a continuous intake and a strong emphasis on innovation, execution, and measurable impact for Alberta, the program can be a fit for energy companies, technology developers, and organizations advancing cleaner, higher-value bitumen solutions. Businesses considering partial upgrading as part of their long-term strategy may want to explore whether this opportunity aligns with their technical and commercial goals.