CANADA'S MOST INNOVATIVE COMMUNITIES
Building a Prosperous Future in Woodlands County
Winding its way through the heart of Alberta is the picturesque, fluid, and powerful Athabasca River. Woodlands County encompasses over 250 kms of the river and has established itself as picturesque, fluid, and economically powerful.
Woodlands County is located 180 km northwest of Edmonton. The municipality is approximately 7,600 km 2 in area and located within Treaty 6 and Treaty 8 territories. Woodlands County features a large variety of landscapes including large forest reserves, rivers, resource extraction areas, agriculture, recreational areas, wildlife habitats, and settlement areas.
A strategic vision for growth
Central to the County’s strategic goals, their mission statement reads, “We are a diverse and welcoming rural community that strives to provide exceptional opportunities for our families, businesses, and industries for the benefit of current and future generations.” Local action supports this statement. The County is reviewing its key land use documents with the desired outcome of streamlining local development and reducing red tape so that projects can be completed with the proper authorizations as quickly and affordably as possible.
Reeve Dave Kusch commented, “Our Council is very aware that our local economy will evolve and change. We are actively looking for economic projects that not only grow our local economy, but that fit strategically into our existing community and add to our stability and sustainability. Our land use tools, including our newly adopted Municipal Development Plan, and our current review of our Land Use Bylaw create great
local opportunities for all levels of new investment.”
Empowering economic opportunities
Woodlands isn’t just focused on itself; the spotlight is regional. Partner ships are key to the regions ongoing success. While there are several hamlets and the Town of Whitecourt, located within the County, surrounding towns and counties are an important part of the local economy. The workforce, and of course tourists, aren’t focused on municipal boundaries. Peter Kuelken stated, “As a Coun cillor, I have been appointed to chair our regional economic development alliance. This entity is examining how we can address both the economic and socio-economic needs of residents in our region. Building strong partnerships is our path forward and we are actively working towards this goal because we know we can get further together.”
power plant, further details will be announced in 2025.
Advancing energy and industry
Woodlands County is a proven location for industrial development. Home to numerous forestry processing facilities, electrical generation plants, natural gas processing plants and a wide variety of agricultural operations. The County continues to work with site selectors and others to draw the interest of other industrial projects. An announced carbon storage hub will sequester the emissions of a proposed natural gas
cycle
Forestry, Agriculture, Tourism, and Energy are the pillars of the local economy and each of these industries is dynamic and opportunistic. As a rural area, living in the presence of nature is the way of life. This includes respecting the environment in all we do. All current industrial entities, large and small, in the County understand this concept and work purposefully to ensure they are excellent stewards of our environment. Woodlands County is Naturally Economic!
Greenview: A Decade of Vision, Innovation, and Opportunity Lands Wonder Valley
Imagine a region where bold ideas meet unwavering commitment, where strategic planning transforms vision into reality, and where the future is being built today. This is Greenview’s story — a decade of foresight, risk-taking, and investment culminating in the historic Wonder Valley project, the world’s largest AI data center industrial park.
Wendy Unger
Located within the Greenview Industrial Gateway (GIG), this groundbreaking development is more than a local achievement; it is the result of years of dedicated effort by the Municipal District of Greenview to establish itself as a leader in innovation, sustainability, and economic diversification. Greenview has successfully created a unique industrial environment where all the necessary resources for industry and major developments are readily available — from proximity to water and large natural gas reserves to the ability to sequester carbon. Coupled with an existing fiber network, the GIG has become one of the most strategically positioned industrial hubs in the world. Greenview’s visionary planning has removed traditional barriers and red tape, creating an environment that’s as forward-thinking as it is efficient.
The path to progress: Greenview’s strategic journey
Greenview’s journey began in 2013 with the approval of the Area Structure Plan (ASP) on 18,660 acres of crown land, signaling the district’s intent to develop a world-class industrial hub. By 2015, Greenview had secured a Memorandum of Understanding with the Province of Alberta, paving the way for a special boundary designation. These early steps were critical in setting the foundation for what would become a transformative project for the region.
The following years saw Greenview taking bold steps to bring their vision to life. These steps included: First Nations Consultation
Obtained water license and completed outtake design
• Determined sub-surface carbon capture sequestration ability through a detailed study of geographical formations below the GIG.
Established a utility corridor with electricity, natural gas, and fiber optics
Achieved certified rail designation
Completed alternative energy source study resulting in a “A” rated designation for available biomass in immediate area
• Comprehensive analysis of natural gas availability including localized stranded gas
All of these steps confirmed the GIG’s advantages and have cut red tape and required research to build industrial developments by several years.
Under
tion through intentional planning that reduces habitat fragmentation.
These efforts have not only positioned Greenview as a destination for global investment but also ensured long-term benefits for residents, including job creation in energy, technology, and support industries, workforce training programs with local educational institutions, a growing and diversified tax base, and new opportunities for existing local businesses and service providers.
This vision also underscores Greenview’s commitment to sustainability. By prioritizing clean energy solutions and leveraging the region’s natural resources responsibly, the GIG is a model of how economic growth can align with environmental stewardship.
The Wonder Valley Milestone
In December 2024, Greenview’s planning resulted in a groundbreaking 70-billion-dollar partnership with O’Leary Ventures to establish Wonder Valley. This off-grid, natural gas-powered facility will support the largest AI data center industrial park globally, setting new standards for sustainable innovation. The first phase of development will produce 1.4 GW, with full build out expected to provide up to 7.5 GW. By being able to leverage Greenview's work to date, O’Leary Ventures has a significant head start because of the critical infrastructure and completed associated studies in place.
Located near Grande Prairie, Alberta, the Greenview region is now positioned to diversify its traditional revenue source from oil and gas to include the home of the world's largest data centre, creating economic diversity while enhancing a rural municipality’s sustainability.
Greenview’s visionary planning has removed traditional barriers and red tape, creating an environment that’s as forward-thinking as it is efficient.
Wonder Valley symbolizes Greenview’s ability to lead on a global stage. Its innovative design, near-zero carbon footprint, and significant economic impact reflect the district’s commitment to excellence. It also highlights Greenview’s ambition to be at the forefront of emerging industries, attracting the attention of global investors and positioning the region as a hub for technological advancement.
Greenview’s Moment Greenview’s leadership and investments over the past 12 years made the Greenview Industrial Gateway — and the Wonder Valley announcement — possible. By staying the course, taking calculated risks, and committing resources year after year, Greenview Council has transformed bold ideas into reality.
The GIG and Wonder Valley are not just projects; they are legacies of Greenview’s vision for a thriving, resilient, and innovative community. As the region continues to grow, the opportunities created by these developments will inspire further progress. This is Greenview’s story, this is Greenview’s moment, and it’s only just begun!
O’Leary Data Centre Development Concept Plan
The Future of Innovation and Business Growth
When it comes to launching or expanding a business, access to top-tier infrastructure, a skilled workforce, and robust support system are essential. But what if your business could also thrive in a location that offers a superior quality of life? Welcome to Caledon — where innovation meets opportunity.
Amanda St. John, Manager, Business Attraction and Investment
Caledon is a hidden gem within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), providing businesses with everything they need to succeed, alongside a vibrant mix of urban and rural communities, stunning natural landscapes, and an arts and culture scene that's gaining global attention. Whether you're starting out or scaling up, Caledon is the place to be.
A thriving hub for innovation and growth
Home to nearly 80,000 residents and 4,000 businesses, Caledon is already an economic powerhouse, contributing significantly to the GTA's growth. But that’s just the beginning. With a projected population of 300,000 and 125,000 jobs by 2051, Caledon is poised to become one of Ontario’s fastest-growing communities. For forward-thinking businesses, this makes it an exciting destination for expansion and investment.
"We are committed to innovation and forward thinking; we provide businesses with the resources and infrastructure they need to grow and succeed. Caledon is not just a place to do business — it's a place to thrive.”
said Nathan Hyde, CAO.
Caledon is not just about growth—it's about smart, strategic growth. Located at the heart of the GTA, businesses here have unparalleled access to world-class transportation networks, including roads, rail, and air. Plus, Caledon’s commitment to development includes 3,800-acres of greenfield dedicated to future employment lands. This means more space for businesses to grow, and an influx of new construction jobs, boosting the local economy.
A skilled workforce ready to innovate
With over one million people in the surrounding labour pool, Caledon offers a talent-rich environment for businesses, offering a highly skilled and educated workforce ready to meet the demands of the future.
And Caledon’s proximity to the Toronto Pearson Economic Zone, Canada's second-largest employment hub, further strengthens its position as a business magnet. Major employers like Husky Injection Molding, Mars Canada, Amazon, and Canadian Tire have already established a strong presence here, driving local economic vitality.
One of the most exciting developments in Caledon is its increasing international profile. In 2025, the world-famous RBC Canadian Open will be held at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley in Caledon. This high-profile event will not only draw attention to Caledon on a global scale, but also provide tremendous economic benefits to local businesses, from hospitality to retail.
Innovation drives Caledon’s growth Caledon understands that innovation is key to driving economic growth and attracting investment. That’s why the town is committed to supporting businesses with cutting-edge resources and facilities. A prime example is the Humber River Centre (HRC), located in downtown Bolton. This 10,000-square-foot facility is more than just a workspace — it's a hub for business support services, entrepreneurship programs, and arts and culture events. It also offers free coworking space, networking opportunities, and advisory services to help businesses grow. In 2025, the Town will launch a new business incubator program, offering scale-up and commercialization support for early-stage companies.
The HRC has already received recognition for its economic impact, winning a 2024 Excellence in Economic Development Award from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).
Sustainability and growth go hand-inhand
As Caledon grows, it remains committed to sustainable development. The town’s Strategic Plan (2023–2035) prioritizes environmental leadership and climate action through innovative land use planning. Caledon is actively rezoning areas to allow for more density and mixed-use development, creating a balanced approach to growth that benefits both businesses and the community.
Caledon is already a key economic player in the GTA, but our potential is just beginning to unfold. We’re on track to become one of Ontario’s fastest-growing communities. Now is the time for businesses to invest.
– Nathan Hyde
In addition to its own sustainability initiatives, Caledon encourages businesses to embrace eco-friendly practices through the GreenBiz Caledon Resource Hub. This free, one-stop-shop offers resources and workshops to help businesses of all sizes implement sustainability strategies.
The time to invest in Caledon is now!
As one of Ontario’s most dynamic and rapidly growing communities, Caledon is an exciting place to launch or expand your business. The town’s strategic location, skilled workforce, innovative resources, and commitment to sustainability make it an ideal environment for business success.
Ready to take your business to the next level? Reach out to Caledon’s Economic Development team today to explore the many opportunities that await.
Join the wave of innovation in Caledon—where business thrives, and the future is being built today.
Nathan Hyde CAO, Town of Caledon
URBAN INNOVATION MAKING AN IMPACT: Building a Future-Ready City
As one of Canada’s fastest-growing and most diverse municipalities, advancing cutting-edge urban innovation is crucial to quality of life in Vaughan.
City of Vaughan
The City of Vaughan takes a design-thinking approach to solving complex urban challenges — a problem-solving framework that prioritizes user-centred solutions and creativity. It does this through a three-step process. First, the City identifies and defines key challenges across municipal services and operations. Next, it scans for best practices, technologies, and solutions that address key problems by engaging in partnerships, conducting market research, or launching initiatives like the Transportation Innovation Program/Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN) Demonstration Zone. Finally, it rigorously tests these technologies to ensure that they’re tailored to Vaughan’s specific needs.
“In Vaughan, innovation is in our DNA,” says Mayor Steven Del Duca. “Whether it’s our ambitious Vaughan Healthcare Centre Precinct, with a vision to create an epicentre of health excellence, or the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network Demonstration Zone, which showcases the future of transportation innovation, we’re committed to elevating Vaughan’s quality of life through innovation.”
From improving infrastructure and roads to advancing recreation and healthcare, this approach is central to maintaining a high standard of living and quality of life for our residents.
“As Mayor, I'm proud to lead our collective efforts in building a community that accommodates our growing population while laying the groundwork for success for our future as a city,” says Mayor Del Duca. “Our economy is strong, our community is vibrant, and we have no intention of slowing down.”
Here are five standout examples of Vaughan’s innovative city-building efforts:
1. Transforming the way we move The Transportation Innovation Program/OVIN Demonstration Zone positions Vaughan as a testbed for smart mobility innovations. Funded by the OVIN, the initiative provides companies with real-world environments to test and demonstrate automotive and smart mobility solutions, including electric vehicle technologies, shared and integrated mobility solutions, robotics, and connected and autonomous vehicle technologies. By leveraging access to City assets and infrastructure, as well as municipal support and stakeholder feedback, companies can validate and refine their solutions to address current and future mobility challenges. Six companies were selected to demonstrate their mobility solutions within the City of Vaughan in the first cohort.
2. Enhancing the sustainability of winter operations using AI
The City of Vaughan uses an innovative AI-driven Maintenance Decision Support System to optimize winter
road maintenance. The technology integrates weather forecasts, real-time road condition data, and Vaughan’s operational best practices to recommend effective road treatment and optimal salt usage. Since adopting this innovative AI technology in 2020, the City has reduced salt usage by 30 per cent and saved approximately $400,000 annually — all while enhancing road safety and environmental sustainability.
3. Making City facilities more accessible In partnership with CNIB Access Labs, the Wayfinding Pilot Project uses innovative technology to increase accessibility with the help of a free specialized app called GoodMaps: Indoor Navigation, which helps accommodate people with vision-related disabilities and other diverse visitors, including people using wheelchairs or mobility devices. This pilot project will make it easier for people who are blind or partially sighted to navigate their way independently around six City facilities, prioritizing inclusivity and setting a new standard for creating welcoming, accessible spaces.
4. Enhancing road quality using automated detection
We’re committed to elevating Vaughan’s quality of life through innovation.
The City of Vaughan uses Iris’ Road Patrol Manager, an AI-powered tool installed on City vehicles, to streamline the identification of road-related issues. As staff drive around and work throughout the community, the system detects road deficiencies like potholes and automatically opens work orders in the City’s system using the data it collects. Quick detection of road deficiencies means the City can complete repairs faster, extending the lifespan of local road infrastructure and freeing up resources to be used elsewhere. Since launching the Road Patrol Manager in 2021, crews have been able to detect 10 times more signs obstructed by branches compared to manual road inspections. Additionally, road crack detection has increased by 300 per cent.
5. Saving water using Smart Hydrants
The Smart Hydrants kits provide the City with useful insights into the water system, such as drops in pressure, acoustic data, temperature information, and more. These devices have real-time system monitoring, data storage, and analytics to identify potential leaks within infrastructure and their locations while generating alerts to operations staff for follow-up actions in the field.
Steven Del Duca Mayor, City of Vaughan
Photo Credit: GoodMaps App