When two Alberta-based organizations come together with a shared purpose—to support businesses and strengthen our province’s economy—the result is more than a transaction; it’s a collaboration built on common values and complementary strengths.
That’s the foundation of the new partnership between Essex Lease Financial Corporation and ATB Financial, following Essex’s acquisition of ATB’s Capital Asset Financing Division and ATB’s acquisition of a small minority, non-voting ownership stake in Essex. Together, both organizations support each other’s ongoing success while continuing to meet the evolving needs of businesses across Canada.
Shared Alberta Roots and a People-First Mindset
ATB and Essex both started with a mission to help Albertans succeed—particularly in times of challenge and change.
Founded in 1938, ATB Financial was created to help Albertans through tough economic times. Today, it’s Western Canada’s largest financial institution, with more than $100 billion in assets under management and a deep commitment to community, inclusion, and opportunity.
Essex, while newer in comparison but still about to enter its 40th year, was built on that same Albertan spirit—supporting businesses often underserved by traditional banks. From transportation and construction to oil & gas, manufacturing, and forestry, Essex provides flexible, tailored equipment financing and asset-based lending solutions that help businesses grow on their own terms.
Both organizations believe in putting people first, building genuine relationships, and doing what’s right for their clients—values that made the transition a natural fit.
Growing on a Strong Foundation
ATB built a solid platform for supporting equipment operators and business owners, and Essex is proud to build on that foundation. By combining what ATB established with Essex’s expanded capabilities, we’re able to offer even more support to businesses across Canada.
- Deep specialization in equipment financing and asset-based lending. Essex brings focused expertise in these areas, allowing us to enhance and grow the work that started under ATB’s program.
- Added flexibility through independent lending. As an independent financer, Essex can build on ATB’s customer-first approach by offering highly adaptable, customized solutions that reflect each client’s unique circumstances.
- Expanding the regional footprint. What began with a strong Alberta base can now reach further. Essex’s footprint across Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario allows us to grow the groundwork laid under ATB and support clients across a wider national market.
These differences made Essex the ideal successor to ATB’s Capital Asset Financing Division—ensuring clients continue to receive the same trusted service while gaining access to an even wider range of financing options and industry expertise.
A Partnership That Powers Possibility
This partnership ensures both organizations share in each other’s future success. ATB’s ownership stake in Essex represents confidence in Essex’s continued growth and reinforces a shared commitment to serving Alberta businesses.
For Essex, acquiring ATB’s Capital Asset Financing Division enhances capacity, scale, and service capabilities—cementing Essex’s position as Canada’s largest independent equipment financing provider. For ATB, it ensures their business clients continue to receive best-in-class support from a trusted Alberta-based partner.
Together, both organizations are empowering businesses to invest, grow, and succeed—no matter the industry or province.
Looking Ahead
The collaboration between ATB and Essex marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter— one that strengthens Alberta’s financial ecosystem while expanding opportunities for businesses across Canada.
By combining the institutional strength and community focus of ATB with the entrepreneurial agility and specialized expertise of Essex, this partnership brings out the best of both worlds—helping Canadian businesses keep moving forward, even in challenging times.
Because when local businesses thrive, so does Alberta—and so does Canada.
