[3][4][5] The Alberta Centennial Medal Act established a process to award medals to outstanding Albertans who had made a significant contribution to society and to honour their contributions.

[3][4] Eligibility for the medal was restricted to living men, women and youth who made significant contributions to their fellow citizens, their community and to Alberta, and were Canadian citizens that had resided in Alberta.

Representatives from provincial organizations, governments and other groups were asked to make the nominations.

[8] The colours of the medal's ribbon symbolize Alberta's spirit and strengths.

Blue and gold, Alberta's provincial colours, are most prominent in the ribbon.