EDA Invest In Alberta 2020 by RedPoint Media

BRIGHT FUTURE: Alberta's solar power industry breaks through and begins to shine

INDIGENOUS INCLUSION: First Nations get a boost through economic development

CASH CROP: Plant proteins are big business in Alberta

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THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPERS ALBERTA

Alberta is embracing its entrepreneurial spirit and supporting innovators across the province in making a global impact

I N V E S T I N A L B E R TA 2 0 2 0 | B U S I N E S S A N D I N V E S T M E N T A C R O S S A L B E R TA

INVESTED IN ALBERTA’S NEXT PHASE

This is a transformative time for our province as we strive to strengthen our established industries, boost emerging sectors and integrate new technologies. We’re pleased to be a part of revitalizing Alberta – whether through building infrastructure to provide a safe and reliable system, modernizing our grid to provide real-time restoration, or lighting up a community hockey rink, our focus is on the 240 communities we serve. Our 1,100 employees who live and work in Alberta commit to maintaining a system consisting of more than 124,000 kilometres of power lines, one million power poles, 200,000 transformers and 100,000 street lights in our communities. As an Alberta-based company, we’re here to support you in this journey to build an economically prosperous, diverse and sustainable Alberta. Learn more about how we power — and empower — Albertans at fortisalberta.com. Connect with us at: 310-WIRE (9473) or 1-866-717-3113 (toll-free) BusinessDevelopment@FortisAlberta.com

If it matters to you, it matters to us. 2

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2020

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FORTISALBERTA

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

FORTISALBERTA EXPLAINS the complicated, yet sophisticated system that brings electricity to you

WHEN YOU FLIP THE KITCHEN LIGHT

“That’s availability, and availability is the key factor in electric distribution delivery charges,” Crossman explains. “It has to be there, whether it’s required every day or once a year, and it’s the reason distribution charges don’t vary as much as each customer’s electrical power usage.”

switch in the morning — whether in Lac La Biche or Waterton — the lights come on. But have you thought about what it takes to have a reliable electricity supply? FortisAlberta, the rural distribution company for a large portion of Alberta, thinks about the reliability, availability and safety of electric power — so you don’t have to. “We have 350 lineworkers to ensure power is restored as quickly as possible whenever there’s an outage, sometimes climbing poles in the middle of the night, in the middle of a storm,” says Deb Crossman, director of customer operations. FortisAlberta owns, operates and maintains 60 per cent of Alberta’s electricity distribution network and delivers about 40 per cent of the electricity consumed in the province. It also purchases, installs and verifies power meters, calculates the cost of electrical distribution, and connects and disconnects customers’ supply when required. If a power failure occurs in the middle of the night, many customers will experience inconvenience no greater than having to reset electric clocks in their kitchens, bedrooms and TV recording devices. But for hospitals, some farms, as well as commercial and industrial customers, Crossman says reliable service is vital. “It’s a complex system,” Crossman says of the Alberta power grid. It includes: • Large-scale power generators, who supply the Alberta power pool; • High-voltage transmission systems; • Distributors such as FortisAlberta; and, • Power retailers who buy power from the pool and sell it to end-use customers. FortisAlberta owns and maintains a system consisting of more than 124,000 kilometres of power lines; one million power poles; 200,000 transformers that step power down to household, commercial and industrial voltages; 100,000 street lights in

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

communities such as Vulcan, Airdrie and St. Albert; and remote power meters for each of its customers. Every customer site is affiliated with a rate class. No matter where you live, or how long the power line to your home, every customer within a rate class pays the same rate per kilowatt/hour of delivered power. Despite Alberta’s capricious and frequently violent weather, Crossman says, power outages aren’t the biggest challenge to the distribution system. The key to dependable electrical service is meeting peak demand at each customer location. At the centre of the FortisAlberta system are 1,100 employees based in Alberta, working to make sure power reaches every individual user, regardless of the overall load on the system or the peak demand at any moment. When Albertans arrive home from work, turn on their kitchen ranges and lights, switch on the TV, power up computers, and wash and dry a couple loads of laundry – they expect the electricity to be there. That means the distribution system must be built to handle the maximum energy demand at each home, as well as every business and industrial site. “That’s availability, and availability is the key factor in electric distribution delivery charges,” Crossman explains. “It has to be there, whether it’s required every day or once a year, and it’s the reason distribution charges don’t vary as much as each customer’s electrical power usage.” As technology advances, Crossman says, lots of people in rural areas are looking at saving on electrical bills by installing wind- or solar-power systems. When alternative energy systems are installed, FortisAlberta is able to accurately meter the ups and downs of each customer’s demand for grid power — as well as each customer’s contributions of alternate energy to the Alberta grid. But, while these customers may be buying less power from their retailers, very few are disconnecting from the distribution system. “Wind and solar power are highly variable,” she says, “but most people’s power requirements don’t coincide with the wind or sunshine — and batteries aren’t efficient enough to bridge the gaps. They still want that backup grid power, so their furnaces will run when it’s 20 below and they can count on their lights in the middle of the night.

For more information contact: FortisAlberta 310-WIRE (9473) 1-866-717-3113 (TOLL-FREE) fortisalberta.com

2020

invest in alberta

CONTENTS

2020 THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPERS ALBERTA

109

DEPARTMENTS 7

Alberta's Economic Regions

Messages

12 Alberta By the Numbers 17 City Profiles 121 Member Directory

FEATURES

28 Open for Business Economic development officers with Albertaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Indigenous communities are collaborating to provide opportunity and prosperity to their regions

36 A New Dawn A combination of long sunny days and extensive research is putting Alberta at the forefront of a solar power industry with a bright future

28 52 64 ON THE COVER: Sunrise on the Alberta prairie. PHOTO: Brett Dietterle, Travel Alberta

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2020

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READY TO TALK GROWTH? We’ve heard enough negative press about Alberta. Now is the time to plan for the future and invest. Cultivate your company’s success in Rocky View County.

Rocky View County has grown its commercial and industrial tax base by 379% since 2001. Compare this to 319% growth in Calgary and 343% growth in Edmonton, over the same time period.

THIS IS THE ROCKY VIEW ADVANTAGE.

SECTORS 96 44 ENERGY & PETROCHEMICALS 45 Partnership Pipeline A company’s unique approach to Aboriginal inclusion

is putting pipelines in the ground and people to work

46 A Bright Idea An energy company is partnering with remote Alberta

communities to provide affordable utilities through distributed power generation Fuel for Thought An Edmonton biofuel facility attracts investment as it continues to put the city’s waste to work

112

51 ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY & RESEARCH 52 On the Grid An international tech company finds the perfect home for its

headquarters in a small Alberta town

56 Innovation by Collaboration Unique networks across Alberta are at the

ready to help innovators take their ideas and turn them into successful businesses

63 AGRICULTURE & AGRI-FOODS 64 Budding Opportunity A collaborative effort is underway to push Alberta’s

hemp industry to the forefront of a global movement

116

70 Serving Up an Alternative Opportunity Plant protein popularity is

on the rise and Alberta’s agriculture sector has already sewn the seeds for capitalizing on its success

76 FINANCIAL SERVICES 77 Financing Farms of the Future Farmers and financial institutions in

southern Alberta are teaming up to capitalize on technological advances

78 Capital Connections A new investment forum in central Alberta aims to

draw a diverse crowd to connect entrepreneurs with investment capital

79 AWE-inspiring Non-traditional sources of financing are helping women

entrepreneurs bring their innovative ideas to market

83 ARTS & TOURISM 84 Best of Both Worlds Combining outdoor experiences with the comforts of

104

home is becoming an increasingly popular pastime

90 Raising a Glass Craft breweries across Alberta are tapping into a rich heritage

to capture a unique economic opportunity

95 TRANSPORTATION & LOGISTICS 96 Taxes Not Included Port Alberta is positioning itself as a major

transportation hub and using its Foreign Trade Zone status to attract importexport operations 100 Due North Northern Alberta communities push for infrastructure development to transport value-added products out of the region

103 AEROSPACE & DEFENCE 104 Operation Local Investment Military bases stationed in Alberta provide

108

an economic boost to local communities

108 Up in the Air A software firm provides a unique solution to improve weather forecasts

109 Ground Control Edmonton International Airport is quickly becoming a top

destination for training and research

111 FORESTRY 112 Putting Down Roots An international mill operator invested in Alberta’s

forestry sector with an eye to grow operations and the communities they work in

116 Clearing the Air A research project aims to turn pulp mill waste into

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big business edaalberta.ca investalbertamag.ca

109

ALBERTA'S ECONOMIC REGIONS 2020

Suite 127 #406, 917-85 Street SW Calgary, Alberta Canada T3H 5Z9 Toll Free: 1-866-671-8182 www.edaalberta.ca

Battle River Calgary Capital Central Mackenzie

North Central Northeast Palliser Peace Country Slave Lake

South Central Southwest West Yellowhead Wood Buffalo

This map highlights the exciting stories of economic innovation contained in this edition of Invest in Alberta magazine and where they are taking place, and is not meant to be a representation of the entirety of activity taking place in any specific region of the province or in Alberta as a whole.

PRESIDENT: Jennifer Fossen CEO: Leann Hackman-Carty MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS: Nancy Toombs ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT: Janice Grant

WOOD BUFFALO

MACKENZIE

• High Level

PUBLISHED BY: RedPoint Media & Marketing Solutions #100, 1900-11 Street SE Calgary, Alberta Canada T2G 3G2 Phone: 403-240-9055 www.redpointmedia.ca PRESIDENT AND CEO: Pete Graves EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Jill Foran EDITOR: Steve Macleod ART DIRECTOR: Charles Burke PRODUCTION MANAGER: Mike Matovich PRINT ADVERTISING COORDINATOR: Erin Starchuk ADVERTISING SALES AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIST: Anita McGillis CLIENT RELATIONS MANAGER: Natalie Morrison SALES RESOURCES: Robin Cook, Erin Starchuk AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT: Rob Kelly

•

Fort McMurray ■

PEACE COUNTRY

• Peace River ■

SLAVE LAKE

• Grande Prairie ■

Cold Lake ■

NORTH CENTRAL

•

NORTHEAST

■ Edmonton

Lloydminster ■

CAPITAL

•

WEST YELLOWHEAD

• Jasper

BATTLE RIVER CENTRAL

•

■ Red Deer

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jessica Barratt, Justin Bell, Maggie Bremski, Robin Brunet, Michael Ganley, Lewis Kelly, Tricia Radison, Dawn Smith, Kelley Stark, Theresa Tayler

• Banff

• Calgary

PALLISER

CALGARY

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS AND ILLUSTRATORS Beauchamp Photography, Brett Dietterle, Raymond Reid, Cpl. Amber Stuparyk, William Varvek

SOUTH CENTRAL

SOUTHWEST

• Medicine Hat ■

• Lethbridge ■ AGRICULTURE & AGRI-FOODS

| 63

TRANSPORTATION & LOGISTICS

| 95

ENERGY & PETROCHEMICALS | 44

FINANCIAL SERVICES

| 76

AEROSPACE & DEFENCE

| 103

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY & RESEARCH | 51

ARTS & TOURISM

| 83

FORESTRY

| 111

invest in alberta

SPECIAL FEATURES

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

| 17, 27, 35

2020

MESSAGE from the PREMIER

We Are Open for Business ON BEHALF OF THE GOVERNMENT OF Alberta, it is my pleasure to send greetings to the readers of Invest in Alberta magazine. In 1905, when Alberta joined Confederation, it was described as having “avenue and opportunity for every kind of effort and enterprise.” For 115 years, the people of this province have been making good on that promise. Albertans’ hard work and ingenuity have built one of the most prosperous and generous societies on earth. Our government’s goal is to move Alberta from being the most over-regulated economy in Canada to being the freest and fastest moving. We will create an environment where job creators in our province have one of the lowest tax and red tape burdens in North America. We are working to restore investor confidence that facilitates job creation and the cutting-edge advances that will secure Alberta’s place in the economy of the future. We want to send a loud message to businesses across Canada and around the world: Come to Alberta.

Invest here. Innovate here. We are the free enterprise heart of Canada, and I’m happy to say we are open for business again. Thank you to Economic Developers Alberta and its members for leading the way and helping us build a province that is the best place to live, work, start a business, and raise a family.

The Honourable Jason Kenney Premier of Alberta 2020

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2020

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MESSAGE from the MINISTER

A Spirit of Hard Work and Ingenuity AS MINISTER OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, Trade and Tourism, I am excited to send greetings to the readers of Invest in Alberta magazine. Alberta is an innovative and entrepreneurial province, and the people who live here exemplify the spirit of hard work and ingenuity. Our province is a prime example of how we can build a prosperous and responsible society that provides opportunity and a warm welcome to all. Our government wants the world to know that our province is open for business. We are working to remove the burdens of red tape and regulation that slow our economic growth and stifle innovation. We have reduced taxes on job creators that will give us the lowest tax burdens in Canada and among the lowest in North America. We are working every day to restore investor confidence and create the conditions for job creation, innovation and growth. We want our message to be heard: We are open for business. Alberta has an economic engine that is built on a priceless and unique commodity: the people who live here and the investors who believe in our prov-

ince. So I say to you, believe in Alberta. Invest and innovate here. Thank you to Economic Developers Alberta for always believing in our province and the people who live here. Thank you for always being a leader in building Alberta. Together, we will continue to ensure that Alberta is the best place to invest, start a business and raise a family. The Honourable Tanya Fir Minister of Economic Development, Trade and Tourism 2020

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, TRADE AND TOURISM

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

2020

invest in alberta

MESSAGE from ECONOMIC DEVELOPERS ALBERTA

Welcome to Invest in Alberta WELCOME TO INVEST IN ALBERTA, THE official publication of Economic Developers Alberta (EDA). We invite you to explore the pages of the 2020 edition, and discover a diverse and entrepreneurial province rich with a population that is hardworking and innovative. Without a doubt, Alberta is the best province in which to invest and in the pages of this magazine and its accompanying microsite (www.investalbertamag.ca) you will read why. You will read valuable information on the economic regions of Alberta as well as timely statistics about our varied economy; you’ll learn how an energy company is partnering with remote Alberta communities to provide affordable utilities; you’ll read why an international tech company chose a small Alberta town for its headquarters; and you’ll be inspired by a feature story on the powerful impact Alberta’s Indigenous communities are having on the prosperity of this province. We believe you will find this information valuable and we hope you consider the benefits to you and your business as we offer some of the finest investment opportunities in the world today.

Jennifer Fossen, President Economic Developers Alberta

invest in alberta

2020

For more than 45 years, Economic Developers Alberta has provided its membership with professional development opportunities, resources and networking opportunities. We are the leading professional organization for economic developers in the province. We are proud of our varied membership, who inspires us to find innovative resources they can use in their day-to-day economic development practice. By joining EDA you become part of a network that is equipped to create thriving communities and contribute to fostering sustainable economic prosperity. As we enter into a new decade, the theme that drives our work is “fostering innovation, transformation, and diversification” highlighting our commitment to serve our members by providing valued expertise which is integral to cultivating a prosperous, diverse and sustainable economic base. Choose Alberta. Our province is strong because of its people and their commitment to creating a thriving future. You don’t want to miss the opportunities we have here.

Leann Hackman-Carty, CEO Economic Developers Alberta

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ROCKY VIEW COUNTY

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

ROCKY VIEW: ALBERTA’S BEST PLACE FOR TAXES THE INVESTMENT COMMUNITY HAS beaten a path to Rocky View County. World-class investments in the County include CrossIron Mills, New Horizon Mall, G3 Canada and a growing number of Western Canada warehouses including Walmart, Whirlpool, Sobey’s, Gordon Food Service, Home Depot e-Commerce, Smuckers, Princess Auto and Amazon. What has driven this $2 billion flow of investment over the past decade? How has the Balzac area alone created over 21,000 jobs in the last ten years? There are many reasons but most specifically and more strategically it comes down to Rocky View’s competitive tax rates.

ROCKY VIEW’S TAX RATES ARE A MAGNET FOR INVESTMENT Rocky View County has one of the most competitive municipal tax rates for attracting commercial and industrial development in the Calgary Region and the Province of Alberta. Here are the numbers from Alberta Municipal Affairs (listing mill rates for Rocky View offers from the highest tax jurisdictions to the lowest): City of Lethbridge: 19.9387, City of Edmonton: an impressive 17.4354, City of Grande Prairie: 16.3740, City of selection of fully- Chestermere: 15.3562, City of Calgary: serviced land 15.3243, City of Medicine Hat: 15.3104, City of options, all with Red Deer: 13.7448, City of Airdrie 8.6110, Rocky excellent proximity View County: 7.5420. With municipal tax rates set to increase in to metropolitan many communities and skyrocket in Canada’s Calgary. largest cities, Rocky View County is clearly the best place in Canada for business when it comes to taxes. But it doesn’t end there, Rocky View is looking for ways to save developers time and money through streamlined processes and red tape reduction that will accelerate investment attraction and expedite commercial/industrial development in the County. Without question, Rocky View County is Alberta’s magnet for investment!

ALBERTA IS MORE COMPETITIVE THAN EVER Premier Kenney and the Government of Alberta have launched an ambitious plan for economic growth. They have put Alberta on a clear path of fiscal recovery and job creation. These stalwart and progressive goals include lower corporate taxes, less red tape and more pipelines to bring Alberta energy products to a growing global economy with an ever-increasing appetite for oil, natural gas and refined petroleum products. Long story short, Alberta is being transformed into one of the most attractive jurisdictions on the continent for business. How will Rocky View County lead the Province and the Calgary Region in growth? One word — momentum. There are so many

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

companies — large and small — who have already moved their entire operations to Rocky View. As the tax burden in many communities across Canada and in the United States balloons, even more businesses will move to Alberta and specifically, Rocky View County. With the Government of Alberta’s steady fiscal leadership and commitment to attract high quality jobs, Rocky View will welcome billions of dollars of investment. Our landowners have developed, our developers have created shovelready sites, and our world class network of industrial brokers are talking to prospects as they prepare bids for a wave of site selection inquiries. Rocky View County has everything business and industry needs to prosper — starting with low taxes.

WHY ROCKY VIEW? WHY NOW? Why is Rocky View County such a great place to invest? Why is Rocky View flourishing when so many communities in Alberta are buckling under the weight of low oil prices and a Provincial economy that has been impeded but outside forces? Why do investors continue to flock to Balzac and Rocky View County? Rocky View offers an impressive selection of fully-serviced land options, all with excellent proximity to metropolitan Calgary. Unlike many communities across Canada, Rocky View also has no business tax. That means no business revitalization zone levies, no business licenses, no onerous business tax – period. Rocky View has visionary land owners, confident developers and highly-networked real estate brokers that facilitate major investments: month after month, deal after deal. These people are the foundation of Rocky View’s bright future. Investors demonstrate this by investing in Rocky View. Visionary leadership by Rocky View’s Council has made the County what it is a today — a hub of commercial and industrial growth, a world-class destination for retail and entertainment, a place for investment that is unmatched in Alberta. Rocky View County is looking to the future with a sound fiscal foundation and an unabashed desire to help businesses prosper through low taxes. Come experience the Rocky View Advantage.

For more information contact: David Kalinchuk, Economic Development Manager Rocky View County Telephone: (403) 520-8195 E-mail: dkalinchuk@rockyview.ca Website: www.rockyview.ca

2020

invest in alberta

By the NUMBERS

$116.6 billion MAJOR EXPORTS 2018 Total Merchandise Exports ($ Billions)

$72.1 Crude Petroleum $8.8 Petrochemicals $8.6 Gas and Gas Liquids $5.8 Processed Food & Beverages $5.7 Crops & Livestock $4.7 Metals & Machinery $4.1 Forestry Products $2.3 Refined Petroleum Products $1.1 Electronic & Electrical Products $1.1 Transportation Equipment $2.3 Others

$81.2 billion ENERGY EXPORTS 2018

10.6% Natural Gas & Gas Liquids 0.6% Coal & Sulphur 88.8% Crude Oil

$331.9 billion ECONOMIC DIVERSITY Percentage distribution of GDP in 2017

invest in alberta

2020

16.3% Oil & Gas and Mining 8.3% Manufacturing 6.6% Transportation & Utilities 10.8% Business & Commercial Services 11.8% Real Estate 4.7% Finance & Insurance 5.0% Tourism & Consumer Services 9.3% Retail & Wholesale 5.4% Public Administration 4.1% Education 6.4% Health Care 2.0% Agriculture & Forestry 9.5% Construction

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On average, Alberta’s 4.3 million people are the youngest of all Canadian provinces, with a median age of 36.9 years, and 69.5 percent of the province’s labour force aged 25 years and older has a post-secondary degree, diploma or certificate. In 2018, almost 2.3 million Albertans were employed, international merchandise exports were $117 billion, investment totaled $61 billion, and per capita investment in Alberta was $14,051, more than twice the national average of $6,636. Between 2008 and 2018, Alberta accounted for 19 percent of Canada’s population growth. In fact, Alberta’s population increase of 22 percent over that period was the largest increase of any province or state in North America. Although Alberta’s oil and gas sector remains the largest percentage of the province’s GDP, several non-energy sectors displayed considerable growth from 1987 to 2017, including: Construction – 6.9 to 9.5 percent of GDP Finance, Insurance and Real Estate – 13.8 to 16.5 percent of GDP Business and Commercial Services – 6.6 to 10.8 percent of GDP

GROWTH IN SELECTED INDICATORS

LABOUR PRODUCTIVITY

2017 Real GDP Per Hour Worked (in 2012 constant dollars)

2008-2018 Percent Change Alberta

Canada Newfoundland & Labrador Saskatchewan Alberta

Population

Canada Manitoba Employment

Ontario British Columbia Quebec

GDP

New Brunswick Nova Scotia Merchandise Exports

Prince Edward Island 0

PER CAPITA INVESTMENT

$20

$40

$60

$80

$100

NET FINANCIAL ASSETS/DEBT

2018

2017-2018 Percent of GDP

Alberta

Saskatchewan

Newfoundland & Labrador

British Columbia

Manitoba

Canada

Prince Edward Island

British Columbia

Manitoba

New Brunswick

Nova Scotia

Ontario

New Brunswick

Quebec

Ontario

Nova Scotia

Newfoundland & Labrador

Prince Edward Island

Quebec $0

$3,000

$6,000

$9,000

$12,000 $15,000

*Investment in new housing is not included in these estimates.

-50%

-40%

-30%

-20%

-10%

Sources: Alberta Economic Development and Trade, Alberta Energy Regulator, Alberta Treasury Board, Conference Board of Canada, Department of Finance Canada, Statistics Canada

#EDA2020 @edaalberta www.edaalberta.ca

2020 CONFERENCE & AGM Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge Kananaskis, Alberta

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

2020

invest in alberta

EDMONTON GLOBAL

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

TAXES NOT INCLUDED

Port Alberta is positioning itself as a major transportation hub and using its Foreign Trade Zone status to attract import-export operations

EDMONTON GLOBAL, THE EDMONTON

“Because of Canada’s size, the Edmonton metro region is well situated to be a cargo distribution point in Canada, connecting our European and Asian markets.”

invest in alberta

Metropolitan Region’s new regional economic development organization is helping to revitalize and refresh Port Alberta, its inland port, and bring the economic interests of the region to international markets. Port Alberta, the Edmonton metro region’s inland port, has been active for years, but is now being given new life. Edmonton Global is bringing a more regional view and driving international trade and investment. Edmonton Global brings a wider regional perspective, looking at partners throughout the metro region. Whether it’s the Industrial Heartland near Fort Saskatchewan, manufacturing in Nisku or agricultural producers in Parkland County, Port Alberta can be used to advocate for the whole region and help bring goods to market. “What (Port Alberta) allows us to do is create a story around our integrated supply chain and how it comes together,” said Malcolm Bruce, the CEO of Edmonton Global. “An inland port is a concept that allows land-locked organizations a simple way to describe their integrated and interconnected supply chains. It becomes a compelling narrative to use in markets around the world. In our particular case, we will use Port Alberta to tell the story.” Inland ports, such as Port Alberta, aren’t a single place or location within the region. Instead, the concept is both a marketing tool and a series of programs put in place by the federal government to make importing and exporting simpler and more efficient for importers and exporters. Port Alberta includes a Foreign Trade Zone designation, a program with the federal government that allows companies to bring in goods from outside the country, assemble them and sell to the world market as Canadian-made products. According to the Edmonton Global website, “Investors are eligible for tariff and tax exemptions on the purchase or importation of raw materials, components or finished goods. Materials and goods can generally be stored, processed, or assembled for re-export (taxes and duties generally would not apply) or for entry into the domestic market (taxes and duties would be deferred until the time of entry).” “All of these things enable us to create a very strong narrative

2020

around a business value proposition for our region. That’s compelling to folks whose supply chains form a key part of their competitive advantage,” said Bruce. Port Alberta is one of more than a dozen locations in the country that carry the FTZ designation. Tax and duty deferrals are only one aspect of the Port Alberta concept. Transportation infrastructure also plays a role in Port Alberta. Bringing together rail, road and air transport, import bonding, throughout the region means businesses have the opportunity to bring in goods in one mode, add value to them, and then ship them out through another. It also leads to seamless logistics connections with international markets. “Because of Canada’s size, the Edmonton metro region is well situated to be a cargo distribution point in Canada, connecting our European and Asian markets,” said Traci Bednard, Vice President of Digital and Corporate Communications with the Edmonton Regional Airports Authority. “When you think about Port Alberta, we are not just trading goods from Alberta, but we are connecting goods coast to coast.” The Edmonton International Airport has seen a number of upgrades over the past few years, from a major trucking facility owned by Rosenau Transport to Shell upgrading their fueling facilities, it all comes together and creates fast, efficient, and reliable ways to move goods to and from almost anywhere in the world. “It really is all of those small components,” said Bednard. “It is more than the sum of the parts. We had the vision of Port Alberta years ago. Now we have a number of those structural pieces in place.” Both Port Alberta partners are looking toward expansion and helping to attract business to the Edmonton metro region. The transportation infrastructure and Foreign Trade Zone designation will help to attract new business and grow business in the region. “We have made inroads into building European cargo services and Asia cargo services. Our next step is working with our local producers and adapting their products to take advantage of those relationships. Once we do that, we will expose products made by Edmonton metro region businesses to millions of additional customers,” said Bednard.

For more information contact: info@edmontonglobal.ca Toll-free: 1-800-264-4952

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WE’RE ONE OF CANADA’S YOUNGEST REGIONS. AND WE’RE GROWING FAST.

ROWING. G . D E T A C U YOUNG. ED

THE EDMONTON METRO REGION With over 130,000 post-secondary students, the highest number of engineers per capita in Canada, and ranked as a global top-five for AI research, the Edmonton metro region is where talent and innovation meet. Grow with us. See why our region is a top choice for investment in Canada.

CITY OF AIRDRIE

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

MICRO ACRES MAKES IT EASY TO GO GREEN Airdrie business keeping it simple and sustainable

FOR AIRDRIE RESIDENTS DAVE AND

“People want fresh, and they want to support local.” – Dave Barchard

invest in alberta

Kirstin Barchard, it’s easy being green. In fact, the owners of Micro Acres have modeled their business after their products: simple, sustainable and affordable. The dream began in 2017 after Dave, a veteran of the food service industry, decided it was time for a career and lifestyle change. Having experienced the popularity of fresh local produce first-hand in the restaurant business, as well as the disconnect between what chefs wanted and what they were actually getting from traditional suppliers — and wanting to work closer to home and his young family — Dave started researching how to grow micro greens. It became reality in January 2018, with Micro Acres planting their first crops in 600 square feet of growing space in Dave and Kirstin’s basement. Fast-forward nearly two years and the company has moved into a new 3,200-square-foot facility in the East Lake industrial area. “We’ve been cautious not to grow too fast,” says Dave. “We moved into this space a couple months ago and it’s allowed us to grow our business another 25 per cent since then.” The couple firmly believes in the concept of getting produce from farm to market within 24 hours or less — sometimes even within a couple hours of harvesting — and having the ‘farm’ in a warehouse right in the heart of Airdrie (think Mexico or California for some ‘fresh’ produce) certainly helps. The company has as many as 25 different varieties of micro greens growing in about 700 growing trays at any given time, rotating through the germination, growth and harvest stages in a matter of days and delivering fresh greens to customers three times a week. About 70 per cent of their clients are businesses, says Dave — restaurants, hotels, brewhouses — although they deliver direct to consumers too. “We love doing the deliveries,” says Kirstin, “because it helps us connect with our customers and talk with them about the products, give and take ideas.”

2020

The goal is not just to supply customers with fresh, nutritious, local and affordable product, but to provide them with new and unique colour and flavour options that are part of the meal, not just a garnish. Some of the more popular items coming out of the ‘farm’ on East Lake Road include micro kale and radish, pea shoots, micro arugula and a micro broccoli mix. Micro herbs such as fennel, dill, amaranth and even popcorn shoots which, says Kirstin, are quite a sweet treat. “We love to add the brassica blend — a mix of arugula, mustard, radish, broccoli and rapini — to tacos and burgers.” In addition to arriving fresh, micro greens actually stay that way longer than other vegetable in the fridge, meaning less wasted food and money. Plus, says Dave, microgreens are literally packed with nutrients, up to 40 times more than their fullygrown counterparts. The couple has plans to grow the company further, but has no interest in becoming “just another large producer.” Their goal is to be able to offer unique and fresh local produce year ‘round, with no seasonal fluctuation in prices and delivered within hours of harvest. Indoor farming is still very unique, and incredibly sustainable, says Dave. “It’s an efficient use of space, it extends the growing season, costs are low — we can literally water our entire farm by hand in about a half hour.” As part of their commitment to sustainability, even the leftover plant stalks and roots get repurposed at a local farm as food for chickens and horses and for composting. Literally every inch of every plant is used with zero waste and no chemicals or pesticides used in growing. “People want fresh, and they want to support local,” says Dave. “We probably touch as many as 5,000 people a week with our products, and we take that responsibility seriously.” In the meantime, the company will continue to mirror its products, keeping things simple — “The way nature intended,” says Kirstin — and putting plenty of personal TLC into each and every plant each and every day. “We think of them as our little baby vegetables,” says Kirstin.

For more information contact: Airdrie Economic Development 403-948-8844 | 1-888-AIRDRIE (247-3743) economic.development@airdrie.ca www.airdrienow.ca

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WESTWARD BOUND

BY JESSICA BARRATT

Population growth across Alberta has drawn significant investment and spurred economic growth in a wide variety of sectors and initiatives BETWEEN 2008 AND 2018, ALBERTA ACCOUNTED FOR 19 percent of Canada’s population growth. In fact, Alberta’s population increase of 22 percent over that period was the largest increase of any province or state in North America. And where there’s people, there’s money. In 2018, 2.3 million Albertans were employed and investment totaled $61 billion. That same year, per capita investment in Alberta was $14,051, more than twice the national average of $6,636. Investment is expected to be one of the major drivers of Alberta’s economic growth over the long term, driven by investment in manufacturing

(especially chemicals), infrastructure and business services — it’s already paying off. In 2018, Alberta’s manufacturing exports hit an all-time high of $116.6 billion worth of goods, an increase of 15 percent from 2017. And the province’s population is prepared to support economic development for decades to come. On average, Alberta’s 4.3 million people are the youngest of all Canadian provinces, with a median age of 36.9 years. Here we highlight just one initiative in seven Alberta municipalities that is creating economic opportunity and putting the province’s talented people to work.

CALGARY Opportunity Knocks for Innovative Companies

PHOTO COURTESY: FINGER FOOD ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY

IN TODAY’S UBER-COMPETITIVE WORLD FOR investment attraction and economic development, a city needs world-class business and lifestyle attributes. In some cases, it also takes a final piece of the puzzle to complete a relocation or expansion that will be a catalyst for growth in a key sector. The City of Calgary’s $100 million Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund (OCIF) is an important tool in the vision to

Ryan Peterson, CEO, Finger Food

be the city of choice in Canada for entrepreneurs to embrace technology to resolve global challenges: cleaner energy, safer food, better health and efficient movement of goods and people. Funding is available to companies or institutions with projects that have potential to expand and diversify the economy of Alberta’s largest city. The priority sectors are identified in the economic strategy Calgary in the New Economy and include, agribusiness, energy, health/life sciences, and transportation and logistics. Applications are assessed by a Board of Directors comprised primarily of local business leaders using criteria that includes innovation, as well as economic or social benefits. To date, eight organizations have been approved to earn up to $23.4 million in funding if they achieve pre-set metrics. Finger Food Advanced Technology Group will receive up to $3.5 million in support to accelerate the incubation of advanced new digital technologies and ecosystems. “There were many compelling reasons to open a technology centre in Calgary,” says Finger Food CEO Ryan Peterson, whose company will create more than 200 high-quality tech jobs in Calgary. “With the talent pool, appetite for growth, and partners like the Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund, it was the obvious city to launch our first advanced technology centre.” OCIF support has also been used to retrain workers for careers in tech. NPower Canada opened its first location outside Toronto to provide tech training for underserved youth. “There are few things as transformative for someone who is unemployed and underemployed as a chance to acquire the skills…to start a career in the tech sector,” says Jeff Davison, city councillor and a member of the OCIF Board.

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

CALGARY BY THE NUMBERS • Incorporated as a City: January 1, 1894 • Current Mayor: Naheed Nenshi • Population (2018): 1,267,344 • Population change 2011-2016: 13% • Land Area: 826 sq. km • Major Project Investment: $24.3 billion • Annual GDP per Capita (2018): $83,490 • Median Household Income: $99,583

Sources: Statistics Canada, Calgary Economic Development, Alberta Municipal Affairs

“With the talent pool, appetite for growth, and partners like the Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund, it was the obvious city to launch our first advanced technology centre.” – Ryan Peterson, CEO of Finger Food Advanced Technology Group

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EDMONTON Providing the Building Blocks for a Burgeoning Tech Hub BACK IN 2011, TWO EDMONTON-BASED software developers decided to help a local painter with his business problem. They developed a program to streamline the entrepreneur’s invoicing, client records and scheduling. The result was a product that could easily be used by small business owners in multiple sectors and a company of their very own – Jobber. Today, Jobber is used by more than 70,000 businesses in 43 countries and serves as a symbol of the collaborative spirit that is a hallmark of Edmonton’s tech community. “At Innovate Edmonton, we want to see our city recognized as one of the top cities for technology, innovation and entrepreneurship,” says Cheryll Watson, vice-president of Innovate Edmonton. “That’s why we collaborate to create the best possible environment for tech-enabled start-up and scale-up company growth.” Innovate Edmonton – a division of the Edmonton Economic Development Corp. – has established several partnerships and relationships within the local tech community. The organization has made huge strides in opening doors for tech-preneurs across the province’s capital city to bring

EDMONTON BY THE NUMBERS • Incorporated as a City: October 8, 1904 • Current Mayor: Don Iveson • Population (2018): 932,546 • Population change 2011-2016: 14.8% • Land Area: 685 sq. km • Increase in Passengers at Edmonton International Airport (2018): 5.8% • Median Family Income: $98,900

ground-breaking ideas to market and improving the synergies of these efforts through mutual collaboration. “Whether that be a startup or a high-potential scaleup, we bring the right people, resources and funding together to support an endeavour,” says Watson. “Technology-enabled companies grow quickly and create wealth at higher rates than traditional sectors. They also accelerate our economy’s diversification, and when these companies excel, all Edmontonians benefit.” And there could be plenty of benefits on the horizon. According to a recent report from the non-profit Information and Communications Technology Council, Alberta can expect to gain more than 77,000 digitally-focused jobs by 2023 – and Watson is hoping that most of those will make Edmonton home. “We provide a healthy ecosystem for entrepreneurs to take a risk, and this city has been quietly leading the way in three key sectors: artificial intelligence and machine learning, health and life sciences, and big data and analytics,” notes Watson. “Our evolution into a major tech hub fits this personality of a young, growing, risk-taking city.”

Sources: Statistics Canada, Edmonton Economic Development Corp., Alberta Municipal Affairs

“We provide a healthy ecosystem for entrepreneurs to take a risk, and this city has been quietly leading the way in three key sectors: artificial intelligence and machine learning, health and life sciences, and big data and analytics.”

PHOTOS COURTESY: INNOVATE EDMONTON

– Cheryll Watson, vice-president of Innovate Edmonton

BRIGHT FUTURE: HackEd, Alberta's largest student-run hackathon at the University of Alberta (top) and Innovate Edmonton's Dream Big event at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (right).

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RED DEER Transportation Development for the Long Haul GASOLINE ALLEY HAS LONG BEEN KNOWN AS A hub for much needed pit stops during road trips through Red Deer County. The busy rest stop with several gas stations and restaurants has been a welcome sight for decades by drivers using the Queen Elizabeth II (QE2) Highway – Alberta’s main north-south artery that includes a nearly 300-kilometre route between Edmonton and Calgary, seeing more than 16 million trips annually by automobile. However, recent construction has made the area a little less accessible for commercial vehicles, so Red Deer County is now working to develop a nearby junction specifically for truck drivers and other large vehicles. “Alberta Transportation had recently reconfigured the interchange to make it safer for drivers leaving Red Deer… but at the same time it created a more difficult approach into Gasoline Alley for larger vehicles,” says Sandra Badry, Economic Development Officer with Red Deer County. “We knew that the time was coming for a reconfiguration of that interchange.” Just 10 kilometres south of Alberta’s fourth biggest city,

the new development is located in Red Deer County, which is the municipality that surrounds the City of Red Deer, where the QE2 Highway intersects with Highway 42. Phase one of the Junction 42 project – which included an investment of $2.5 million from the provincial government – opened in November 2018. The “home away from home” development broke ground with five acres of paved parking available for commercial vehicles, recreational vehicles, campers and other large transportation units. Phase one is only a portion of the 270-acre site that’s primed for development. Over the next 50 years, the county plans to bring in highway commercial, agricultural, manufacturing and other medium-sized industrial development to the area, including the potential for a waste-to-energy project. “The QE2 highway corridor that serves Junction 42 and Gasoline Alley is also named the CANAMEX Corridor,” says Badry. “It runs consistent from Edmonton, south to Mexico City, through three countries – Canada, the United States and Mexico – and serves as a major transportation route for many distribution companies.”

RED DEER COUNTY BY THE NUMBERS • Incorporated as a County: January 1, 1963 • Current Mayor: Jim Wood • Population (2018): 19,541 • Population change 2011-2016: 6.7% • Land Area: 3,962 sq. km • Major Project Investment (2018): $513.9 million • Median Household Income: $95,475

Sources: Statistics Canada, Red Deer County, Alberta Municipal Affairs

Queen Elizabeth II (QE2) Highway is Alberta’s main northsouth artery that includes a nearly 300-kilometre route between Edmonton and Calgary, seeing more than 16 million trips annually by automobile.

PHOTOS COURTESY: RED DEER COUNTY

IMPROVED ACCESS: Red Deer County's Junction 42 will make it easier for large vehicles to access services on the busy Edmonton to Calgary transportaion corridor.

BUILDING BOOM: Improved access to Gasoline Alley has resulted in more services being added to the popular stop on QE2. Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

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LETHBRIDGE Canada’s Premier Food Corridor Serves Up Economic Opportunity Through Collaboration

LETHBRIDGE BY THE NUMBERS • Incorporated as a City: May 9, 1906 • Current Mayor: Chris Spearman • Population (2018): 99,769 • Population change 2011-2016: 11% • Land Area: 122 sq. km • Major Project Investment: $1.1 billion • Median Household Income: $90,470

IT’S OFTEN WRITTEN THAT THE FOOD INDUSTRY is recession-proof because, well, people need to eat – and Lethbridge, along with the communities in the surrounding region, have a distinct focus on agriculture and agrifood development that provides support for this idea. With almost 900 farms in the region surrounding Alberta’s third-largest city and generating upwards of $1.1 billion per year (around 20 percent of the city’s GDP), Lethbridge has enjoyed economic success in recent years. “That’s the key piece, as long as trade is good, we can weather that storm. Agriculture typically performs in a very stable, positive way,” says Trevor Lewington, CEO of Economic Development Lethbridge. In an effort to grow those numbers, Lethbridge has partnered with several farmers, food processors, industry associations, supply chain companies and research organizations to establish Canada’s Premier Food Corridor (CPFC). The CPFC region includes Lethbridge County and the Municipal District of Taber, and is being promoted by economic

development professionals across Alberta’s southern region. “We are building on a strength, and on a rising world need for top-quality, sustainable food,” says Martin Ebel, economic development officer with Lethbridge County. “We understand that we are stronger and can have a larger impact when we work with our regional neighbours than if we just go it alone.” The CPFC is home to superior growing conditions with over 906,151 acres of irrigated land in an area just north of the United States border that serves approximately 342,000 people. Already supported by over 30 industry associations, the corridor is proving to be a huge draw for investors looking to tour Alberta’s agricultural initiatives, says Ben Young, economic development officer with the Town of Taber. “Not only is all of the primary production rurally located, but much of the value-added processing is distributed in rural areas across the region,” says Peter Casurella, executive director of SouthGrow Regional Economic Development. “The past, and the future, of southern Alberta is agri-food.”

Sources: Statistics Canada, Economic Development Lethbridge, Alberta Municipal Affairs

“The past, and the future, of southern Alberta is agri-food.”

PHOTOS COURTESY: SOUTHGROW REGIONAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

– Peter Casurella, executive director of SouthGrow Regional Economic Development

FOOD HUB: With more than 906,000 acres of irrigated land, the Lethbridge area has become Alberta's major centre for food production, processing and research.

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WOOD BUFFALO Rebuilding Continues After Canada’s Costliest Natural Disaster BACK IN 2016, THE HORSE RIVER WILDFIRE burned more than 5,800 square kilometres of land as it spread toward Fort McMurray in northeast Alberta. More than 2,500 dwellings were destroyed, earning the incident a reputation as Canada’s most expensive natural disaster. The Conference Board of Canada later estimated $5.4 billion would pour into the region and boost the economy as it rebuilds. The recently formed Wood Buffalo Economic Development Corporation (WBEDC) continues to work to realize that potential investment. The WBEDC was formed in 2018 as an arm’s length organization from the local government, but was spun out from initiatives pursued by the Economic Development branch of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo. “The WBEDC provides continued leadership to the economic growth strategy for the municipality,” says Amanda Haitas, former manager of WBEDC and current senior manager in the Planning and Development Department of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo. “Their main purpose is to increase growth, innovation, prosperity, and resiliency of the regional economy.” The organization continues to manage the Support to Small Business Programs, which were funded by the

Canadian Red Cross, and include a Business Coaching Program, Keyano College Voucher Program and Group Learning Events. “We were fortunate to be able to support Wood Buffalo in its business and economic recovery efforts both during and after the fire,” says Leann Hackman-Carty, CEO of Economic Developers Alberta. “ I am convinced that the short-term and long-term impact would have been far worse had we not been able to support the economic development group through operating the emergency hotline, providing emergency grants, and offering technical business and economic recovery support. It’s great to see how resilient their region really is.” In an effort to further consolidate its economic development efforts, the WBEDC also recently amalgamated with Fort McMurray Tourism. “Tourism is a core driver of the regional economy and thus an essential component of the strategy, structure, and culture of the WBEDC,” says Kevin Weidlich, CEO of WBEDC. “This amalgamation will enhance Wood Buffalo’s tourism sector in areas such as brand, marketing, pursuit, sales, delivery and measurement of initiatives. We are looking forward to continue to work closely with the local tourism operators in the best interests of our region.”

WOOD BUFFALO BY THE NUMBERS • Incorporated as a City: April 1, 1995 • Current Mayor: Don Scott • Population * (2018): 111,687 • Population change 2011-2016: 9.2% • Land Area: 61,778 sq. km • Estimated GDP Increase from 2017 - 2021: 5.5% • Median Household Income: $196,285 * Includes rural service area and temporary residents working in the region for more than 30 days per year Sources: Statistics Canada, Wood Buffalo Economic Development Corp., Alberta Municipal Affairs

“Tourism is a core driver of the regional economy and thus an essential component of the strategy, structure, and culture of the WBEDC.” – Kevin Weidlich, CEO of Wood Buffalo Economic Development Corporation

TOUR STOP: Organizations across Wood Buffalo are teaming up to push tourism as a key driver of the regional economy. Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

2020

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MEDICINE HAT Economic Growth Continues to Move Indoors in Southeast Alberta MEDICINE HAT AND REGION PACKS A TON OF clout as a hub where large-scale agri-businesses can find solid ground with more than 45 percent of Alberta’s total greenhouse production area at almost 40,000 square metres. The southeastern Alberta city is set grow that number after attracting one of the largest producers and distributors of hemp-derived THC-free cannabidiol (CBD) oil in the United States. Folium Biosciences is bringing its water-soluble technology and one-of-a-kind extraction processes north of the border with plans for a 10,200-square-metre facility to support processing, extraction and purification. “We always look for a city that is open, wants us to be there and wants to embrace the opportunity,” says Kashif Shan, CEO of Folium Biosciences. “We want to be welcome in the community and we felt that Medicine Hat was embracing of who we are, what we do, and wanted to make it work for us to be here.” Indeed, Medicine Hat and the surrounding region’s dominance as a greenhouse leader has been a welcome

MEDICINE HAT BY THE NUMBERS • Incorporated as a City: May 9, 1906 • Current Mayor: Ted Clugston • Population (2018): 63,260 • Population change 2011-2016: 5.4% • Land Area: 112 sq. km • Average Annual Days of Sunshine: 330 • Median Household Income: $72,806

mat for economic development. Not only do cultivators benefit from the city’s status as one of North America’s only fully vertically integrated electrical utilities generating their own power and offering lower electricity transmission and distribution costs, but they equally benefit from the area’s large irrigation district, renowned for hemp, canola, and pulse production. This has helped the city draw in nearly $300 million in new investments since 2018, two of which include hemp and cannabis production facilities for Aurora Sun Cannabis, as well as Folium Biosciences. “[We’re] emerging as a global leader in cannabis and industrial hemp production and processing,” notes Sandra Blyth with the City of Medicine Hat’s Economic Development and Land department. “These industries have created a groundswell of new opportunities for our region and with that comes investment confidence that is a drawing card for new investors. The time is now to invest in Southeast Alberta and our door is wide open.”

Sources: Statistics Canada, Invest Medicine Hat, Alberta Municipal Affairs

“These industries have created a groundswell of new opportunities for our region and with that comes investment confidence that is a drawing card for new investors.” – Sandra Blyth, City of Medicine Hat’s Economic Development and Land department

BUDDING ECONOMY: With over $300 million in new investment, Medicine Hat is emerging as a global leader in cannabis and industrial hemp production and processing.

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GRANDE PRAIRIE Cashing In on a Retail Boom WITH A RECORD $4.4 BILLION IN RETAIL spending, there’s no doubt about Grande Prairie’s role as a major retail hub for the more than 285,000 residents living in Alberta’s northwest region. “Grande Prairie has seen immense retail growth with the development of new areas like Trader Ridge and Westgate,” confirms Mayor Bill Given. “We appreciate the challenges and risks that come with visionary, large-scale [retail] development,” adds Given, hinting at the still-new Ford Dealership and Canadian Tire store spanning the outskirts of Grande Prairie’s westend – both the largest of their ilk in Canada. Given the city’s continued economic success and sustained population growth, the province has come to rec-

ognize Grande Prairie as a strategic regional asset (with its large and growing trade area) by expanding their investments to include additions to the community’s existing educational and health-care infrastructure. First on the roster is a $760 million regional hospital project. In addition to a state-of-the-art cancer care centre, the hospital will add an extra 4,000 square metres for nursing and medical career programs at Grande Prairie Regional College, helping to provide greater educational opportunities for graduating students locally. “[The hospital] will support the region and allow northern patients to receive specialized and complex care closer to home,” says Rebecca Leigh, senior economic development officer for Grande Prairie.

GRANDE PRAIRIE BY THE NUMBERS • Incorporated as a City: January 1, 1958 • Current Mayor: Bill Given • Population (2018): 69,088 • Population change 2011-2016: 13.5% • Land Area: 133 sq. km • Median Age: 31.9 • Median Household Income: $118,026 • New Development and Construction: $7.3 billion

Sources: Statistics Canada, City of Grande Prairie, Alberta Municipal Affairs

“We appreciate the challenges and risks that come with visionary, large-scale [retail] development.” PHOTOS COURTESY: BEAUCHAMP PHOTOGRAPHY, WILLIAM VAVERK (RIGHT)

– Bill Given, Mayor of Grande Prairie

PRAIRIE HUB: The new $760 million regional hospital will serve the more than 285,000 residents of what has become a major retail centre in the region. Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT LETHBRIDGE

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

LETHBRIDGE: Brighter Together

small to medium manufacturers and a great option for potential investors. In 2018 the value of Lethbridge region-based exports across all industries eclipsed more than one billion dollars. Cavendish Farms Potato Processing Plant ($430M), Science Commons at the University of Lethbridge ($260M) and the Cor Van Raay YMCA ($150M) were big construction projects completed in 2019. Since 2013 the construction sector has seen a GDP increase of 129.5% and employs 7,300 people in Lethbridge.

AS ALBERTA’S THIRD LARGEST CITY

Our spirit of innovation is more than just the way we do business. It’s a way of life. We recognize that we are a product of our incredible environment, and know we each play a role in weaving the cultural fabric we proudly call our community. We are not afraid to stand apart, but we are brighter together.

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with a population of over 101,000 residents, Lethbridge has been advancing in several ways over the past few years! Southern Alberta is a hub for traditional industries including Agriculture, Manufacturing, Transportation and Warehousing. The city is also home to 2 world-class post-secondary institutions and a strong emerging technologies sector, making Lethbridge a community that is proud of its rich history but is also willing to adapt to a world that is ever-changing. If you were to take a snapshot of the Lethbridge business community you’d find everything from small downtown familyrun businesses and tech start-ups to century old companies and global corporations including some of the biggest names in the world, such as Cavendish Farms, Richardson Oilseed, McCain, PepsiCo Foods, Pratt & Whitney and Maple Leaf. Part of the reason Lethbridge is such a great place for business is the relatively stable economy in the region. By not relying on one specific sector for prosperity, the diversity of the city is one of the driving forces that keep businesses healthy, allow for growth and attract new business and potential investors. With a trading area of over 342,000 people and forecasted growth of 2.6% in GDP this year and an estimated GDP growth of 2.7% in 2020, Lethbridge has shown it is a city that continues to grow while the provincial economy has remained stalled.

INDUSTRIES Agriculture and agri-food are core wealth generating industries for southern Alberta with a substantial number of businesses involved all the way from primary production to value-added processing. Lethbridge also has a thriving technology sector, driven by a well-educated and expanding workforce. A testament to our two post-secondary institutions and other research centres. Lethbridge also has a regional innovation network that includes Tecconnect, a business incubator that provides workshops, resources and business advisors to help technology entrepreneurs grow from ideation through to commercialization. Some of the many benefits allowing for a diversified manufacturing sector in Lethbridge include a competitive tax structure, proximity to markets and a highly educated workforce. These factors make Lethbridge a great home for many

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PEOPLE Lethbridge continues to be a bright choice for not only business and investors, but also students and families. A steady population growth of almost 2 percent for the past 5 plus years makes our city one of the most desirable places to live in the country. For businesses they have access to a skilled workforce of 3,200 graduates every year from Lethbridge College and the University of Lethbridge. Overall Lethbridge has a well-balanced demographic profile and a healthy mix of youth, workforce and seniors in the community. Some of the factors that make Lethbridge a bright choice for people include its location. The mountains are a short drive away and provide a great escape for hiking and nature enthusiasts. Lethbridge receives over 300 days of sunshine per year and has a relatively mild climate compared to most regions in the country. The city has an abundance of natural beauty, a thriving arts and culture scene and many recreational facilities… there’s something for almost everybody to maintain an ideal balance of work and life. The more people get to know Lethbridge, the more they love it!

CHOOSE LETHBRIDGE There are many reasons Lethbridge is a great location to start, grow or expand your business. At Economic Development Lethbridge, we are proud to foster collaboration among industry, business, governments and institutions while helping businesses access the information and support needed to relocate, start and grow. We are Lethbridge. Brighter Together. Contact us at 403-331-0022 or visit chooselethbridge.ca for more information on how we can help you make the bright choice for your business.

Contact us at 403-331-0022 or visit chooselethbridge.ca for more information on how we can help you make a bright choice for your business.

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LETHBRIDGE: A BRIGHT CHOICE FOR BUSINESS

THIS IS LETHBRIDGE. BRIGHTER TOGETHER Lethbridge's economy has fired on all cylinders over the past two years - Conference Board of Canada 4th best place to invest in Western Canada - Western Investor

Population increase of 9% since 2014, outpacing provincial and national rate - Statistics Canada

visit chooselethbridge.ca to learn more

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

CITY OF RED DEER

A NEW APPROACH TO URBAN LIVING Development Opportunities Open in Red Deer’s First Urban Master-Planned Community

THE PLACE WHERE RED DEER was founded, is where its future will unfold. Become part of Capstone, a visionary, masterplanned, riverside community in the heart of downtown Red Deer! This unique redevelopment project will create a vibrant, walkable, mixed-use district in Red Deer’s greater downtown. It will feature a mix of medium and high density residential development, complementary commercial opportunities, beautiful riverfront gathering areas, pedestrian-friendly trail connections, public art, cultural spaces and outdoor amenities. This 20-year Masterplan vision imagines 5,000 new residents living in some 2,000 new townhomes and condos with an additional 2 million square feet of commercial development bringing activity to the streets day and night. To date, The City has invested over $42M in infrastructure improvements in order to prepare

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the Capstone area for development. This includes roadways, servicing, landscaping, parking, site clean-up and public gathering spaces. A new intersection was constructed to improve access into the neighbourhood, servicing has been upgraded, new major public amenities such as the Riverwalk (which is a linear park that spans the entire riverfront area of the community) have been developed and upgraded, and the distinctive Alexander Way was enhanced, providing the gateway into Capstone and acting as the main conduit from the downtown core to the riverfront. In 2019 The City continued these improvements, focusing on items such as sidewalks, bike trails, public parks, plaza spaces, community amenities and the extension of new servicing into undeveloped areas. Red Deer is one of the largest cities in Alberta, with a population over 100,000. Capstone is already home to 300 residents, and over 120

businesses, with a wide variety of services, retail and entertainment. This includes hobby stores, fitness options such as kickboxing and yoga, health care and paramedical services, restaurants, retail stores, beauty shops, a cinema, financial services and childcare centres — giving visitors and residents plenty of reason to love the area!

Capstone Development Manager The City of Red Deer 403-342-8106 capstone@reddeer.ca www.liveincapstone.ca

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SPECIAL FEATURE INDIGENOUS

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Southwest , South Central, Capital | p.28

$1billion

The Alberta government has set aside a $1 billion fund as part of the newly created Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation.

This map highlights a few areas of economic innovation in this particular sector of Albertaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy, and is not meant to be a representation of the entirety of activity in this sector throughout the province.

812,771

There are 45 First Nations in Alberta with reserve land that covers 812,771 hectares. Government of Alberta, Government of Canada

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

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POWER TO THE PEOPLE: The Weather Dancer wind turbine provides enough electricity to power 450 houses on the Piikani First Nation.

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OPEN FOR

BUSINESS Economic development officers with Alberta’s Indigenous communities are collaborating to provide opportunity and prosperity to their regions

PHOTO COURTESY: COMMUNITY FUTURES TREATY SEVEN

BY LEWIS KELLY

LITTLE OVER TWO DECADES into a decorated career and Shawna Morning Bull is still invigorated by her work. “I always say I’ve never worked a day in my life because I love what I do,” says the winner of the 2019 Chief David Crowchild Memorial Award. “I love my job – whoever I can help, I help.” Morning Bull is a member of the Piikani First Nation, which has its administrative office in Brocket, about 200 kilometres south of Calgary and a land mass covering more than 45,000 hectares in southern Alberta – including a town and timber reserve – with approximately 3,600 registered members. She serves as the manager of business development for Community Futures Treaty Seven (CFT7), playing a role in the economic development of several First Nations across southern Alberta, including Piikani. The full economic impact of every project she’s contributed to is practically impossible to measure, but it is surely somewhere in the millions of dollars of GDP. For example, Morning Bull has helped Piikani Resource Development Limited in her role as a Board Member put together numerous alternative energy projects that generate power for the Nation on its own territory. These include the Weather Dancer wind turbine, which provides power for 450 houses; and a hydroelectric plant

nearby that generates enough power for another 25,000 homes. Various solar projects around the Nation provide electricity for the local school, the Elders’ Lodge and office buildings. Another project, which will add 192 solar panels to the roof of the Piikani Nation Hockey Arena, is also in the works. Overall, the Nation’s alternative energy sources save members about $20,000

Considering the economic impact of these projects, it’s no exaggeration to say that Morning Bull has played a meaningful role in raising the standard of those Nations through small business development. No wonder she likes her job. “CFT7 is a hub that helps our member Nations come and see what the other Nations are doing,” says Morning Bull. “We help them

“It makes me proud to live in Treaty Seven. It’s a rush when you’re helping people start their businesses, or helping start big projects like Weather Dancer or a solar project.” – Shawna Morning Bull, manager of business development for Community Futures Treaty Seven

a year – a figure that will rise if fossil fuel costs climb higher. And that’s one set of projects for Piikani First Nation. Morning Bull has also helped to catalyze similar projects on other First Nations covered under Treaty Seven – an agreement signed more than 140 years ago between the federal government and five First Nations in southern Alberta: the Siksika, Kainai, Piikani, Stoney-Nakoda and Tsuut’ina.

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

come together, bounce ideas off each other, build relationships and create formal partnerships. “Communities need to do that to grow.” Multiply the considerable impact of Morning Bull’s career by 48 and you get something approximating the net economic effect of the work from the Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers (Cando). Cando (pronounced “can do”) is an Edmonton-based non-profit. Run by and for Aboriginal 2020

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BRIGHT FUTURE: Solar projects around the Piikani First Nation provide electricity for the local school, the Elders’ Lodge and office buildings. Another project, which will add 192 solar panels to the roof of the Piikani Nation Hockey Arena, is also in the works.

economic development officers, Cando provides training, networking, and education to people like Morning Bull – economic catalysts. Its membership roll currently includes 48 economic development officers in Alberta, Morning Bull among them. Cando was founded for one simple reason: to foster economic growth in Indigenous communities across the country. There can be no doubt that this work is needed. Reports from the National Collaborating Centre for Aboriginal Health, for instance, show that compared with non-Indigenous counterparts, most Indigenous Canadian households earn less money. More than twice the proportion of Indigenous households have annual incomes under $20,000 than non-Indigenous households and almost twice the proportion of Indigenous children under six years old live with low income than their non-Indigenous counterparts. “We were founded by economic development officers working in Indigenous communities, trying to improve the economic situation,” says Paul Macedo, communications officer at Cando. “The economic development of Indigenous communities is behind, so time is of the essence now. “We need to play catch-up.” Cando does this by helping economic devel-

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2020

opment officers with their important work. Sometimes that means training. Sometimes it means networking with other officers. Sometimes it means education. “The first and foremost duty of an economic development officer is the assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the community they’re working in,” says Macedo. “They work

development officer needs is that ability to assess; how can I create success for my community?” Success for Morning Bull and the communities she’s worked with has come in a variety of opportunities. Through her role as a developmental lender, she’s helped kickstart oil and gas projects, landscaping firms, marketing businesses, and heavy equipment operations across southern

“There is no cookie-cutter, one-size-fits-all development solution for all First Nations in all regions.” – Paul Macedo, communications officer at Cando

very closely with chief and council to develop opportunities.” “There’s tremendous pressure on the position to create impact. We try to make that easier.” One of the major challenges economic developers must overcome, of course, is that development is not like widget production. Each project is customized, carefully tailored to the particulars of its situation. “There is no cookie-cutter, one-size-fits-all development solution for all First Nations in all regions,” says Macedo. “One of the skill sets a

Alberta. In Siksika First Nation, for example, Morning Bull has witnessed the opening of a hotel, a gas station and a restaurant. She’s attended the opening of a full-featured grocery store and a farmer’s market complex on Blood Tribe territory, and has also been in attendance for the opening of a casino and store for artisan wares on the territory of the Tsuut’ina Nation. “In some communities it’s baby steps,” she says, “in some it’s leaps and bounds.” Morning Bull has seen the importance firsthand of working with the unique opportunities

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PHOTOS COURTESY: COMMUNITY FUTURES TREATY SEVEN

RENEWABLE RESOURCE: The Weather Dancer wind turbine provides power for 450 houses.

within each Nation, as members of the different First Nations in Treaty Seven brainstorm ideas around the table at CFT7 Resource Group. “The different First Nations I work with all bring different ideas, different strengths to the table,” she says. “Some projects are the same – most Nations have a gas bar, a grocery store. But most are unique, like the Blood Tribe’s marketplace and the travel centre at Stoney First Nation.” And even if we restrict our focus to those popular gas bars, there is no off-the-rack guaranteed success. “We’ve seen some communities that have made multiple attempts at operating gas stations in their communities that were not successful,” says Cando’s Macedo. “Getting to the bottom of why some stations succeed and others don’t is really one of the core skills of the people we train.” One powerful predictor of the success of an economic development officer is how well they know the community they work in. For Cando and the First Nations it works with, that often means seeking out officers who are themselves Indigenous, as is the case with Morning Bull. “If they’ve grown up in an Indigenous community, even if it’s not the one they’re hired to help, it overcomes a lot of obstacles,” says Macedo. “They already have an awareness of culture, of

limitations, of opportunity that a non-Indigenous person might take time to understand.” By focusing on Indigenous development officers, Cando also fosters Indigenous economic development. As Morning Bull’s career shows, these jobs can form the basis of varied, successful, abiding careers that make a real contribution to economic development in their own right.

big projects like Weather Dancer or a solar project.” For almost three decades, Cando has helped First Nations in Alberta and across Canada pursue development – and much more. “Self-sufficiency leads to independence, which leads to self-determination,” says Macedo. “We believe economic development is a means towards that. Isn’t that what reconciliation is:

“Self-sufficiency leads to independence, which leads to self-determination. We believe economic development is a means towards that. Isn’t that what reconciliation is: allowing people to self-determine?” – Paul Macedo, communications officer at Cando

“When I decided to go to school, I didn’t think being a player in economic development was in my future,” says Morning Bull. “I wanted to be a cop.” “But I’m so thankful that I got my foot in the door and I have the chance to build these collaborative efforts,” she adds. “It makes me proud to live in Treaty Seven. It’s a rush when you’re helping people start their businesses, or helping start

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

allowing people to self-determine?” But despite the undeniable impact of the organization’s work, Macedo sounds a bit wistful when he looks back on Cando’s 28 years of work. “In many respects we would like to work our way out of business,” he says. “But there are so many communities that need development assistance or leadership in some capacity. So there’s a huge need that we still need to address.” 2020

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CITY OF GRANDE PRAIRIE

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

GRANDE PRAIRIE

A city with a big investment and even bigger impact

GRANDE PRAIRIE IS THE FIFTH

As a community, Grande Prairie is home to entrepreneurial and resilient people with big hearts.

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largest city in Alberta, home to a population just shy of 70,000 and situated 457 km northwest of Alberta’s capital. Grande Prairie’s location plays a key part in the City’s rapid and expansive growth over two decades. It is located on the CANAMEX corridor, a 4-lane highway from Mexico to Alaska that boosts international trade between Canada, the USA, and Mexico. The City’s proximity to the Montney and Duvernay formations, two of the largest oil and gas plays in North America, has solidified Grande Prairie as an urban hub for residents across the region to access retail, recreation, health care, government, business, and industrial services. The retail market in Grande Prairie is strong, with $4.4 billion spent in 2018. The high spending amount can be attributed to location, as Grande Prairie is the only major city between Edmonton, Alberta and Anchorage, Alaska. Further bolstering the retail strength of the City is a growing regional retail trade area of nearly 290,000 people leading to consumers crossing provincial boundaries to access the stores, restaurants, and entertainment Grande Prairie has to offer. Recently, the Melcor REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) purchased an existing 33.3 acre major retail development for $54.8 million, increasing the company’s portfolio by almost 10%. As a company with considerable retail strength and existing presence across Alberta, Melcor REIT’s investment will boost Grande Prairie’s retail and entertainment sector. “We are excited to enter the Grande Prairie market with its unique niche as a young and growing city,” said Darin Rayburn, President & CEO of Melcor REIT. “We recognize that Grande Prairie draws from a large regional population and provides urban retail opportunities for many regional communities in Northwestern Alberta. It is a market that we’ve been looking to enter for a while and we are pleased with the warm reception Grande Prairie has shown us so far.”

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As Grande Prairie continues to grow, retail spending and demand for new stores will continue to be supported by the young, fast growing city. Looking to the energy sector, Seven Generations Energy is building their $35 million operational headquarters in Grande Prairie that will house 175 offices for their entire current staff and growing workforce. The headquarters will support operations in the region within a single, collaborative working environment, particularly as they develop the world-class Montney resource as part of their Kakwa River Project. “Our new office exemplifies our commitment to Grande Prairie as an important part of our future, the city is a major hub that provides access to specialized services, supplies, and strategic partnerships we need to be successful,” said Brian Newmarch, Seven Generations Energy’s Vice President of Capital Markets and Stakeholder Engagement. “We make local community presence and partnerships a priority, despite the ups and downs that our industry faces. We are proud to be here and do our part in making Grande Prairie a great place to live, work, and play.” Seven Generations Energy is fondly known as Grande Prairie’s energy company and is an example of blending of economic prosperity and community partnership. The company has a strong presence in Grande Prairie and has become a contributing member of the community by providing employment opportunities and contributing locally to the Grande Prairie Regional Hospital Foundation and the Grande Prairie Regional College. Melcor REIT and Seven Generations Energy are key examples of investors who diversify Grande Prairie’s economy with benefits crossing many segments of the economy such as the energy industry, business services, and retail and entertainment. As a community, Grande Prairie is home to entrepreneurial and resilient people with big hearts. The region’s prosperity has sustained a community culture of giving back and has drawn heavy hitting investors who bolster the economy and reflect the dynamic and innovative community.

For more information, contact: Rebecca Leigh Manager, Economic Development City of Grande Prairie ecdevinfo@cityofgp.com | 780.357.4969 cityofgp.com/ecdev

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

JEDI

CULTIVATE MORE

We have all the right tools to help you grow your business at a fraction of the cost JEDI IS A GRASSROOTS municipal partnership between the County of Wetaskiwin and Town of Millet, located just 40 kilometres south of the City of Edmonton. We are a non-profit organization that facilitates strong, sustainable economic growth in our region. Whether you’re an industrial operation relocating to the area, a regional company pursuing international growth, or a foreign business looking to invest in Alberta, we’re here to help, with the resources and vigour to make it a reality. When building your business, comprehensive research is a crucial starting place — and we can provide those vital statistics and data, but we also help you with so much more. From site selection assistance and land development planning, to investment advice and grant applications, we begin with knowledge and follow through with action. We know your bottom line drives where you situate your business. Here in Central Alberta, our

affordable land and efficient economy can support and grow your operations. Compared to nearby urban centres, we offer lower cost options for industrial property. Plus, there’s a central transportation sector, with convenient and highcapacity options for air, rail and highway travel. This includes four high-capacity highways, which go through our region that are part of key North American transport corridors. If you are looking for land close to the City of Edmonton, we are just 40 km south of the Capital City. We have some excellent properties throughout our region, including industrial parks in the Town of Millet and County of Wetaskiwin, as well as prime property located along the QEII Highway corridor suitable to meet your commercial and industrial needs. Acre by acre, we shape our future and enrich our region. Whether you are looking to expand or relocate, we are here to nurture your future

growth, so come check out all we have to offer in the JEDI region. As your partner for industry development, investment and expansion, JEDI is driven to see your business and Central Alberta thrive.

For more information, contact Joan Miller, Director Economic Development Joint Economic Development (JEDI) 780-361-6231 jmiller@jedialberta.com www.jedialberta.com

The JEDI Advantage • Serviced industrial land at ½ the market price of the adjacent capital region

• Located in Central Alberta’s manufacturing and logistics hub

• Access to a labour force of 334,000 focused on skilled trades

• 30 km south of the LeducNisku Industrial Park

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We connect you by road, rail & air The JEDI Region enables you to efficiently and cost-effectively transport your assets anywhere in the world! • The main north/south line of Canadian Pacific Railway (CP) goes through the JEDI region and provides complete services to both Atlantic and Pacific port facilities. • Home to four major high-capacity highway systems and is directly on the CANAMEX Corridor, the central highway corridor connects Canada, the United States and Mexico. • Located only 30 km south of Edmonton International, one of the nation’s fastest growing airports, offering rapid 24-hour customs allowing for quick entry & exit of your shipments within the Port Alberta Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ).

WWW.JEDIALBERTA.COM edaalberta.ca investalbertamag.ca

SPECIAL FEATURE SOLAR POWER Southwest Central, Slave Lake | p.36

South Central

30%

The Alberta government has set a firm target for 30 percent of electricity used in Alberta to come from renewable sources – such as wind, hydro and solar – by 2030.

This map highlights a few areas of economic innovation in this particular sector of Alberta’s economy, and is not meant to be a representation of the entirety of activity in this sector throughout the province.

6,143 MW

Alberta’s 6,143 MW of coal-fired electricity generation will be phased out by 2030. Sources: Alberta Economic Development and Trade, Alberta Energy Regulator

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

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A combination of long sunny days and extensive research is putting Alberta at the forefront of a solar power industry with a bright future

PHOTO COURTESY: KUBY ENERGY

BY MICHAEL GANLEY

HE LIGHT WENT ON FOR JAKE Kubiski when he was on vacation in Costa Rica in 2015. In addition to the beaches and cultural attractions, Kubiski discovered that the small Central American country was a world leader in renewable energy. “On most days, they were getting 100 percent or almost 100 percent of their electrical energy from renewable sources,” he says. “I was pretty inspired by that.” At the time, Kubiski was a journeyman electrician in Alberta’s oil and gas sector, having spent years working for Suncor in Fort McMurray and at the Shell Scotford upgrader on the outskirts of Edmonton near the City of Fort Saskatchewan. On his return from Costa Rica, Kubiski surveyed the market to see how many companies around Edmonton were working in the solar power space. He found only a couple, and thought he saw an opportunity. So, he took additional training in the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and founded Kuby Renewable Energy in Alberta’s capital city. Now, in addition to rooftop and ground solar PV systems, Kuby Renewable installs

battery systems and electric vehicle chargers. Kubiski has as many as 20 employees working for him and, despite some turmoil in the market as governments change the rules around subsidies for electric cars and solar PV, Kubiski says the future is bright. “The industry is on an upward path,” he says. “Solar just makes economic sense now.” The only real question is just how big will the solar PV industry get?

try, and much of North America,” says Peter Casurella, executive director of the SouthGrow Regional Initiative, an economic development alliance supporting 26 communities across southcentral Alberta. That natural resource, combined with constant improvements in technology and the plummeting cost of solar panels, means solar is moving into southern Alberta in a big way. Casurella says there are nine utility-scale

“We’ve gotten to the point where the cost of the technology is so low that it doesn’t make any sense to have a handout from the public purse.” – Peter Casurella, executive director of the SouthGrow Regional Initiative

Despite being at a more northerly latitude than much of Ontario and Quebec, the sun shines long and bright on the southern reaches of Alberta, making it one of the best places in Canada to generate solar electricity. “Southern Alberta gets more sunshine hours per year than any other part of the coun-

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

renewable energy projects being built in southern Alberta between now and 2022, representing $1.5 billion in capital expenditures. “It has become the second largest pillar of the regional economy, after agri-food,” he says, “and the exciting thing is that we don’t see it slowing down.” 2020

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GREENER CAMPUS: The Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre at Red Deer College is part of the largest solar array on a postsecondary institute in Canada – 4,200 solar panels across several buildings, enough to generate 1.6 megawatts of electricity.

The biggest of the projects under construction is the $500-million Travers Solar Project. Calgary-based Greengate Power is behind the 400-megawatt development, which includes 4,700 acres of land near the Village of Lomond approximately 180 kilometres southeast of Calgary. Once fully operational, the Travers Solar Project is expected to power more than 100,000 homes, making it the largest solar PV facility in Canada and one of the largest in the world. Importantly, it is being built without the help of government subsidies and will sell the electricity into the grid at market prices. “That’s ideal,” says Casurella. “We’ve gotten to the point where the cost of the technology is so low that it doesn’t make any sense to have a handout from the public purse.” Indeed, the project will pay into the public purse through an estimated $4 million in annual assessed taxes for the county, $2.8 million in annual land leases to landowners and 300 temporary construction jobs. Ironically, solar power plants – even when they’re as big as the Travers Solar Project – don’t require a large operational staff and the Travers Solar Project is expected to provide only about 10 long-term jobs.

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“They’re very efficient in that sense,” says Casurella, “which is one of the things that makes them competitive with other forms of energy.” While southern Alberta has an immense solar resource, opportunities for solar PV systems stretch well to the north. Red Deer College – a

the generator is used to simultaneously generate useful heat.“We started to save so much in energy costs we wondered if it was possible to push the edge a bit more and achieve net-zero,” says Jason Mudry, director of campus management at Red Deer College.

“Alberta’s solar producing capacity is above that of Germany, which is one of the countries that has adopted solar in large volume. The solar capacity in Western Canada is simply tremendous.” – Joel Gingrich, dean of Red Deer College’s School of Trades and Technologies

public post-secondary institution in the central Alberta city with the same name about halfway between Edmonton and Calgary – has looked for opportunities to make its campus more sustainable for the past decade. The college has been investing in energy efficient, LEED-certified buildings and a 1-megawatt combined heat and power (CHP) plant – it uses a natural gas powered generator to create electricity, and the waste heat from

In an effort to achieve that goal, the college recently had Kuby Renewable install the largest solar array on a post-secondary institute in Canada – 4,200 solar panels across several buildings, enough to generate 1.6 megawatts of electricity. The $4-million project saw panels installed on top of the new Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre, the carpentry and automotive labs, and a new student residence. A solar-covered pedway

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PHOTOS COURTESY: RED DEER COLLEGE

was also built between some of the buildings. Combined with the CHP plant, the solar array generates a significant portion of the electricity required by the campus. Occasionally, Red Deer College actually feeds electricity back into the power grid. Perhaps just as importantly, the college has integrated the solar project into its research and teaching. It has built a 4,000-square-foot alternative energy lab and dedicated a similar amount of roof space to experimental solar arrays so students and teachers can work with different kinds of panels, apply various treatments to them and change their orientation. “The idea is to learn from renewable production across campus,” says Joel Gingrich, dean of Red Deer College’s School of Trades and Technologies. “How can students learn from that and how can we ask some questions and draw some conclusions around relative production efficiencies?” The college is gathering data on which angle is best at which time of year for gathering the most solar energy. It’s gathering data on snow accumulation and how it affects performance, and at which pitch snow will just slide off.

“After we get a couple of years of data, we’ll look at the configurations to see which panels produce the most electricity per square foot,” says Mudry. “We’ll use that data to help us determine what the best configuration for future installations may be, and we may go back and make adjustments to our system.” Combined with other alternative energy initiatives across the campus, the addition of solar gives Red Deer College a production environment as well as a micro-grid where students can learn about solar PV, solar thermal and small-scale wind, geothermal and waste-toenergy production. In essence, the college has become a living laboratory for data management, big data integration of various alternative energy systems and machine learning. Gingrich says the initiative is garnering a lot of interest from electrical apprentices and students in engineering technology, as well as from contractors through continuing education programs. Kubiski says there will be jobs for the students when they graduate, should they want them. In the past, he has hired oil and gas workers who were looking to transfer into a new industry, but more recently he’s

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

been hiring directly from alternative energy programs like the ones at Red Deer College and the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology in Edmonton. “Those have been really good avenues of hiring because they’re people who really want to be in this industry,” says Kubiski. “Some are engineers, some are ex-accountants, it’s everybody really who wants to get into solar.” The industry does face some obstacles. The electrical distribution grid is not built out sufficiently to accommodate the expected growth in renewable production, but that is being steadily improved and some producers are adding battery storage to their facilities to help combat the problem in the meantime. But overall, solar energy is an industry on the rise in Alberta. “The general consensus is that this isn’t going away,” says Red Deer College’s Gingrich, citing growing interest from institutional, commercial and residential customers alike. “Alberta’s solar producing capacity is above that of Germany, which is one of the countries that has adopted solar in large volume. The solar capacity in Western Canada is simply tremendous.” 2020

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TOWN OF WHITECOURT

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

INDUSTRY RICH. COMMUNITY FOCUSED. Home of the DUVERNAY

Whitecourt offers a solid foundation for established, developing, and expanding businesses with a young well-trained workforce.

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WHITECOURT IS READY! With 270 hectares of serviced industrial land available and an additional 450 hectares of raw land identified for industrial use, this area is an industrial heartland. Whitecourt is strategically located and serves as the largest commercial hub in Alberta’s Duvernay Shale Play with a trading area of over 50,000 people and direct access to rail, major highways, and air transportation. Industrial development has been an integral part of planning for Whitecourt. Existing available and raw land can provide for growth of 300% and the potential to triple the current population. Whitecourt has sustained a steady growth rate over the last decade. While most municipalities in Canada are contending with issues associated with an aging population, Whitecourt continues to see a trend of incoming young families and increasing births. The census population in Whitecourt grew by 14% over the past two census periods with 71% of the population within the working age group. A high quality of life for residents is made possible through numerous recreation and cultural opportunities that enhance business and family lifestyles. “The lifestyle opportunities that Whitecourt offers far exceeds that of other Alberta towns and cities,” said Brian Ames, Broker/Owner of RE/MAX Whitecourt and 36-year resident. “Facilities like the Allan & Jean Millar Centre (multi-use facility), Rotary Park, and Eastlink Park (winter park) are real assets that appeal to both families and investors looking to move here. On top of that, our community offers public transit — a service typically only provided in urban centres much larger than Whitecourt.”

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Whitecourt offers a solid foundation for established, developing, and expanding businesses with a young well-trained workforce. With low tax rates, modern infrastructure, available land, and an extensive transportation system with air, road, and rail links across North America, the region is perfect for entrepreneurs looking to begin a new venture as well as established businesses looking to relocate or expand their economic reach. New business development, regional partnerships, and expansion opportunities continue to grow with strong support from Whitecourt. With project ready land, available infrastructure and utilities, high quality of life for residents and employees, and the resources needed to succeed, Whitecourt is where opportunities connect!

For more information, contact: Rhonda Hough, Economic Development Officer Town of Whitecourt | 780-778-2273 rhondahough@whitecourt.ca www.whitecourt.ca

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TOWN OF SUNDRE

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

WORKING HARD PLAYS OFF Business and pleasure by the mountains

NESTLED IN ALBERTA’S FOOTHILLS

Few can resist the beauty of the mountains and the warmth and hospitality of the locals.

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region is the beautiful town of Sundre. Serving approximately 2,800 people within the town limits, nearly 8,000 in the surrounding counties of Mountain View and Clearwater, and an even larger workforce population located within 30 minutes of town, Sundre is a growing destination for families and businesses. “Sundre is a sub-regional hub for the area’s population in terms of amenities, transportation and commerce,” says Jon Allan, Economic Development Officer. The municipality has continuously invested into processes that make the community more competitive, Allan explains. “Sundre has eliminated red tape and streamlined the permit decision-making process, since all decisions are made in-house by the Town’s planning authority. This allows for quick, responsive decisions.” Moreover, the community is graced with ample affordable land, proximity to plentiful resources, and operates a Town-owned gas utility network that ensures low utility costs. Allan continues, in terms of quality of life and workforce attraction, “Sundre’s amenities, especially for a community of our size, are superb.” Indeed, the area is home to over a dozen doctors and health facilities, and maintains a performing arts centre, kilometres of trails, a year-round indoor pool and athletic centre, ample shopping, and other cultural and recreational opportunities. Sundre’s diverse economy supports its high standard of living, and it has allowed the community to grow despite recent downturns in the oil and gas sector. Its economy is also centred, to varying degrees, in forestry, manufacturing, transportation, tourism, retail, agriculture, the public sector, and recently, cannabis production. They all contribute to the area’s resilience and growth. The combination of employment opportunities and great lifestyle have led to steady population growth. He adds,

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“workforce development and resident attraction efforts have helped instigate hundreds of new residential units developed, under construction, or in planning, since 2016 alone.” Sundre and its surrounding mountain countryside are also a hot spot for tourism. Few can resist the beauty of the mountains and the warmth and hospitality of the locals. With over 2000 campsites located within ten minutes of the town, plus an almost unlimited supply of random camping opportunities in the mountainous crown lands a short drive west of town, on any given weekend tens of thousands of people come to the area to take advantage of the great outdoors. “Tourism growth is astounding!” Allan is pleased to report. “Between 2015–2017 there was a 111 per cent increase in stops at the area Visitor Information Centre, versus the previous threeyear period of 2012–2014.” Those that visit, work, or settle in this town are rewarded by its beauty. This year Sundre was awarded five Blooms from Communities in Bloom (an organization that celebrates the enhancement of green spaces in communities). In addition to receiving the highest number of Blooms possible in any given year, Sundre is also celebrating a Marketing Canada Award from the Economic Developers Association of Canada. This award is in recognition of the Town’s development of a new online ecosystem of websites, including its new town site (www.sundre.com), its tourism site (www.exploresundre. com), its economic development website (www.growsundre. com), and its mobile app. People interested in visiting or investing into the local area are encouraged to explore any of these new online products for information gathering. Unspoiled by high living costs, and with direct proximity to nature, land and resources, Sundre is an expanding destination for investment. “The Town of Sundre is a growing community with a dynamic economy that provides a safe place to visit, invest, live, and grow,” concludes Allan.

For information on investing into Sundre, contact: Jon Allan Economic Development Officer economic.development@sundre.com 403-638-3551 ext 111 www.growsundre.com

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Greenwood Distillers Owen and Bronwyn Petersen, Owners. ^ Fast and easy development decisions with our streamlined in-house process. ^

GROW YOUR BUSINESS IN SUNDRE ^ 75 mins northwest of Calgary. Find out how we can help at growsundre.com Diverse economy with forestry, oil & gas, tourism and cannabis production. ^ Low cost utilities via our town-owned gas system. ^

ENERGY & PETROCHEMICALS Capital, West Yellowhead, Mackenzie, Calgary | p. 46 Capital | p. 47

Calgary | p. 45

Energy Revenues 2017 $72.7 billion

21.7% – Natural Gas & Gas Liquids 1.0% – Coal & Sulphur 12.7% – Conventional Crude Oil 64.5% – Oil Sands

This map highlights where a few exciting stories of economic innovation in this particular sector of Alberta’s economy are taking place and is not meant to be a representation of the entirety of activity in this sector throughout the province.

$81.2 billion

Alberta’s energy exports totaled $81.2 billion in 2018. Crude petroleum topped the list of major exports that year with total merchandise exports of $72.1 billion. This accounted for twothirds of the province’s exports, which were sent to 188 different countries.

$8.8 billion

Petrochemicals recorded the second highest value among Alberta’s major exports in 2018 with a total merchandise value of $8.8 billion.

Sources: Alberta Economic Development and Trade, Alberta Energy Regulator, Statistics Canada

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PARTNERSHIP PIPELINE A diversified management company’s unique approach to Aboriginal inclusion is putting pipelines in the ground and people to work BY LEWIS KELLY HE PIONEER PIPELINE MADE its first delivery of natural gas in May 2019 – four months ahead of schedule. The natural gas pipeline in central Alberta stretches 120 kilometres from Tidewater Midstream and Infrastructure’s Brazeau River Complex west of the Town of Drayton Valley to two of TransAlta’s power generation facilities on the outskirts of Edmonton. Approximately 130 million cubic feet per day of gas are pumped through the line to help the power plants transition from coal to natural gas. The Pioneer Pipeline project’s smooth progress is due to many factors, but the most important might be the involvement of Steel River Group, an Indigenous-owned and operated Calgary-based construction management company with a distinct approach to engaging Aboriginal communities with an interest in construction projects. “A lot of construction companies feel they need to partner with First Nations right now,” says Trent Fequet, president and CEO with Steel River Group. “We don’t do it based on need; we do it based on want – we have reimagined how an Indigenous business creates and captures value for our people, and we want to align with partners who share our vision and values.” Fequet, who hails from the indigenous Innu community of Pakuashipi in the eastern province of Quebec, believes strongly in the power of employment to transform communities. After years of working on mega-projects like the Diavik Diamond Mine in the Northwest Territories and the Albian and Horizon oilsands projects around Fort McMurray in northeast Alberta, he founded Steel River Group to bring the idea to life that Indigenous communities and industry can proactively partner for positive natural resource development. The basic idea is simple in principle but hard to execute. Steel River Group forms partnerships with like-minded Indigenous and non-Indigenous businesses. There is a strong emphasis

on long-term thinking and development. “We never want to form relationships based on a single project,” says Fequet. “We look for a longer-term alignment to maximize sustainable opportunities and employment. We always look

example, Steel River Group partnered with the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation – a First Nation with approximately 2,000 members and 145 square kilometres of land in central Alberta – in a jointly owned subsidiary, Backwoods Energy Ser-

“We have reimagined how an Indigenous business creates and captures value for our people, and we want to align with partners who share our vision and values.” – Trent Fequet, president and CEO with Steel River Group

for a multitude of projects we could approach.” Fequet calls this an “ecosystem” approach because it brings different organizations into long-term relationships that are symbiotic and sustainable, like the webs of relationships in ecosystems. The results to date have been undeniable. For

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

vices. The energy services company has grown to sustain between 150 to 200 employees and annual revenues have grown from approximately $5 million to more than $90 million. And with many more partnerships on the horizon, Steel River Group’s ecosystem approach seems to be spreading. 2020

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A BRIGHT IDEA An energy company is partnering with remote Alberta communities to provide affordable utilities with distributed power generation BY JUSTIN BELL

HE MARKET PRICE FOR NATURAL gas in Alberta dipped below $2 per thousand BTUs in June 2017, but the suppressed price is being viewed as an opportunity to bring power and economic prosperity to remote communities in northwest Alberta. Lionstooth Energy is proposing a relatively small modular power facility that could use natural gas from nearby fields in northern Alberta as a feedstock with little to no processing, while generating around five megawatts of power – enough to power approximately 5,000 homes. It’s the type of project Lionstooth Energy specializes in and sees as a growth area in the province. They anticipate working on four to five projects of this size every year for the next five years, using natural gas to fuel distributed power generation plants. “On the one side, it’s really tough for producers to economically sell gas in the province now,” says Geoff Lester, president and CEO of Lionstooth Energy. “On the other hand, electricity prices in Alberta are going up. They are going to keep going

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2020

up for a while in order to support the transition away from coal-fired generation.” The Regional Economic Development Initiative for Northwest Alberta (REDI) has been working with Lionstooth Energy to determine the feasibility of distributed power generation using natural gas. The idea is to allow the region to generate

County. “It kickstarted us to say, how do we help our communities stay viable while using much of the same infrastructure, minimizing footprint and using the resource for the betterment of the residents and businesses in the area.” Mackenzie County is situated approximately 700 kilometres from Edmonton and is Alberta’s

“It kickstarted us to say, how do we help our communities stay viable, while using much of the same infrastructure, minimizing footprint and using the resource for the betterment of the residents and businesses in the area.” – Lisa Wardley, councillor with Mackenzie County

power locally, while creating and maintaining jobs with service companies through sustaining the local natural gas fields. “Our local expertise is in the oil and gas industry, and this complements this knowledge,” says Lisa Wardley, a councillor with Mackenzie

largest county, covering 80,000 square kilometres in the northwest corner of the province. Wardley is also chair of REDI and notes that the community has been hit hard by the slump in natural gas prices. “The last few years have been tough for everyone,” says Wardley.

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FUEL FOR THOUGHT An Edmonton biofuel facility attracts investment as it continues to put the city’s waste to work BY ROBIN BRUNET Enerkem has already met several objectives. In 2017, the Edmonton facility received approval from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to sell the ethanol stateside, making it the first municipal waste-to-cellulosic ethanol plant to be awarded the status. Additionally, Enerkem closed a new round of financing totalling $76.3 million in April 2019, from existing investors as well as from a new investor – Canada’s largest oil producer, Suncor Energy Inc. The additional capital will help continue the development of its projects both globally and in Edmonton, Alberta, and Canada. Enerkem’s advancements are good news for Edmonton city officials. As 2019 drew to a close, the city’s long-term goal of diverting 90 percent – or 100,000 tonnes – of its annual waste from landfills is coming closer to being achieved. The benefits of the diversion plan are substantial. The plant will save the cost of hauling garbage and paying fees at the Ryley Landfill, approximately 90 kilometres east of Edmon-

ton. According to Enerkem, the facility also created over 750 combined direct and indirect construction and permanent jobs, and enabled an increase of $65 million in net economic spending in the local area every year. Alberta’s capital city will also benefit from the project diverting the methane normally produced by waste sent to landfill, further reducing greenhouse gas emissions methane. Additionally, while 35 percent of the carbon in the garbage will be transformed into ethanol at the plant, the other half will be used as heat during the conversion process. Finally, when the ethanol is mixed into gasoline, it will reduce the amount of fossil fuels required to power a vehicle. “The Edmonton plant has already produced and sold commercial-grade methanol, and with our objectives being met and the EPA approval in place, we can state confidently that full conversion capacity is within our reach,” says Chornet. “Exciting times are ahead.”

PHOTO COURTESY:ENERKEN INC.

NE CITY’S WASTE IS ONE company’s treasure. For Enerkem Inc., that treasure was a new round of financing totalling $76.3 million, as the company continues to make steady advances at its Edmonton biofuel facility. The Canadian company partnered with the City of Edmonton and Alberta Innovates to initiate the Enerkem Alberta Biofuels facility project in 2014. The plant, which converts household waste that is non-recyclable and non-compostable into biofuel, was recently expanded to produce 13 million gallons of cellulosic ethanol annually and will ultimately produce 36 million litres of ethanol per year at full capacity. That is enough to fuel 450,000 cars annually. “We’re still in ramp-up mode, but we have a long series of internal objectives to follow and we’re on track to meet each one as scheduled,” says Michel Chornet, Enerkem’s executive vice-president of project execution and plant operations.

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

2020

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CITY OF LEDUC

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

BUSINESS GROWTH A PRIORITY IN LEDUC Leduc offers you the platform to be at the world’s doorstep. Logistics-related enterprises form the third core sector, elevating Leduc as a dynamic centre of sustainable economic growth and a natural hub for globalization. In mid-2019, Wesbell Logistics landed in Leduc, largely to support the Ford Distribution Centre, which opened the doors of its 460,000 sq ft facility in September 2018. Currently under construction is a 48,000 sq ft warehouse for the food packaging products of Conglom Inc., based in Quebec.

LIVING IN LEDUC

LOCATED AT THE CROSSROADS OF AIR, highway and rail transportation, the City of Leduc is strategically positioned for strategic businesses. One of Alberta’s fastest growing cities, now over 33,000 strong, Leduc is situated along the CANAMEX Trade Corridor (Highway 2), and across from Edmonton International Airport (EIA). Leduc is consistently ranked #3 Top Ten Towns & Cities in Alberta by REIN (Real Estate Investment Network).

“We’re just trying to make it easy for people to develop and grow their business in Leduc.” – Leduc Mayor Bob Young

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GROWTH IN LEDUC’S THREE KEY SECTORS

OUR COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE

The economic development efforts in Leduc are primarily focused on three main sectors; oil & gas supply and service, value added agri-business, and logistics. While these three key sectors have grown strong roots in Leduc, timely assistance is given to many growing companies across all sectors. Oil and gas supply and services, a significant sector traditionally, has been challenged greatly over the past few years. A number of companies in this sector located in Leduc continue to thrive, a testament to their focused approach to serving customer needs. Such companies, such as Rapid Design Group and Apollo Clad Laser-cladding, are both investing in major facility expansions in 2019-2020. A new addition to the Leduc Business Park, DeZurik Canada, who supply, repair and refurbish oil sector valves, opened their first Alberta facility this past January. Agri-business continues to attract considerable investment throughout the Edmonton Region. Home to Alberta’s Food Processing Development Centre, as well as the Agrivalue Processing Business Incubator, Leduc has attracted strategic investments from a number of companies in the past few years. This includes the Vertical Growers Network, and its Trusted Freshness brand, as it continues to tap in to the need for fresh, safe produce, including microgreens and herbs. In August 2019, Polar Bear Genome BioPharma announced that it had chosen Leduc for its base of operations, and work continues on their facility through spring 2020, as they work towards nutraceutical production by mid-year.

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With a five-year average growth rate of over 3%, Leduc businesses have access to an ever-growing young and highly skilled workforce. With an average age of 37, the majority of the labour force works locally. As a growing community, construction of new housing continues to be another important economic feature. Leduc’s exceptional community amenities, such as the Leduc Recreation Centre, which just celebrated 10 years, coupled with the large number of hotels, due to our proximity to the airport, has led to increased recognition as a premier host city. In 2019, Leduc placed 3rd in Canada as a sports hosting facility under 50,000 people, and that was before successfully hosting Curling Canada in late November last year.

Leduc’s non-residential tax rate has continued to be lauded by the Annual CFIB Alberta Tax Gap Report. The February 2019 edition noted that “Leduc ranked first in reducing the tax gap over the past 10 years. The municipality decreased the gap by 38 percent”. Leduc’s existing industrial, light industrial and commercial business parks make us one of the most competitive and attractive markets to do business in the province. Region leading permit approval processes were acknowledged by both Ford Distribution and Polar Bear this past year as a distinct advantage. As Leduc Mayor Bob Young stated recently, “We’re just trying to make it easy for people to develop and grow their business in Leduc”. We are ready to talk business expansion with you, and look forward to sharing your success story.

For more information contact: Harold Wilson, Manager, Economic Development 1 Alexandra Park Leduc, Alberta, Canada T9E 4C4 Phone: +1-780-980-8438 E-mail: hwilson@leduc.ca | Website: www.leduc.ca

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...LIVES HERE

OPPORTUNITY “Part come from all corners “Parts of the globe to Leduc to be repaired by us, and then sen back sent ck to those hose districts.” Doug Hamre Apollo-Clad Laser Cladding R&D Manager

INNOVATION “The speedy permit process, better taxation rate and excellent location have been invaluable to t a small sm business like ours.” Jacqueline Shan

GROWTH

Polar Bear Genome BioPharma President & CEO

“The City of Leduc has been fantastic. From the economic development office to the per ting office permitting fice to the fire office, we have had nothing but help.” Curtis Hrdlicka Enerpan Building Systems LTD. General Manager

SCAN THE CODE HEAR THE STORIES To add your story to Leduc, contact Harold Wilson at hwilson@leduc.ca

W W W. L E D U C . C A

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

CITY OF LLOYDMINSTER

LLOYDMINSTER IS LINKED IN Proven Growth | Investment Ready | Shovel-ready Land THE COUNTRY RECOGNIZES Lloydminster as a producer and provider, with oil and agriculture being at the forefront. An attractive target for expansion and investment, Canada’s Border City shows steady growth, despite the recent shift of the economic landscape. The city’s unique bi-provincial location continues to provide economic pathways in each province. Situated between Edmonton and Saskatoon, Lloydminster has an estimated trade area of 150,000 people and is a regional service hub with a workforce of 70,000 within an hour’s commute. The success of businesses in Lloydminster is contributed in part by the full-time access to skilled workers graduating from Lakeland College, which has two campuses serving the Lakeland Region. Furthermore, with the additional savings from no provincial sales tax on goods and services shipped or

invest in alberta

2020

rendered within city limits, shovel-ready land and daily access to WestJet Link flight service to Calgary, Lloydminster is ready for your business. Lloydminster isn’t slowing down anytime soon. In fact, the city received two noteworthy accolades in 2018. First, the city was named one of Canada’s top three entrepreneurial mid-sized cities by Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) while MoneySense ranked Lloydminster the seventeenth fastest-growing city in the country. Further to these reports, based on a 2019 economic development business survey, nearly nine in 10 local business owners would recommend Lloydminster as a place to operate a business. As a business community, and with the assistance of Telus’ $13 million infrastructure commitment, Lloydminster ensures your organization remains linked with industry leaders.

Through local and regional partnerships, Lloydminster continues to position itself as one of the nation’s leaders in economic diversification and entrepreneurial readiness.

For more information, contact: Katlin Ducherer Economic Development Officer 780 871 8330 economy@lloydminster.ca lloydminster.ca/economy

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ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY & RESEARCH Calgary | p. 52 Peace Country,

Central | p. 56

$15 billion

Alberta’s information and communications technology (ICT) industry includes about 4,600 companies and 40,000 employees generating about $15 billion in annual revenues in 2016, making ICT one of Alberta’s key sectors.

Quality Education This map highlights where a few exciting stories of economic innovation in this particular sector of Alberta’s economy are taking place and is not meant to be a representation of the entirety of activity in this sector throughout the province.

2015 Program for International Student Assessment (PISA*) Exams Average = 500 Rank Jurisdiction Score 1 Singapore 556

2 Alberta 541 3 British Columbia 539 4 Japan 538 5 Quebec 537 6 Estonia 534 7 Chinese Taipei 532 8 Finland 531 9 Macao-China 529

10 Canada 528 *PISA tests 15-year-olds in Mathematics, Science and Reading Sources: Alberta Economic Development and Trade, Canadian Results of the OECD PISA Study, Council of Ministers of Education Canada

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

2020

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ON THE GRID An international tech company finds the perfect home for its headquarters in a small Alberta town BY DAWN SMITH

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2020

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PHOTOS COURTESY: GARMIN CANADA

OCHRANE MAY NOT JUMP OFF the map as a likely location for the headquarters of an international tech company, but it was the only choice for Jim Rooney, managing director at Garmin Canada Inc. Located along the winding Bow River in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and just 20 kilometres west of Calgary, the town of about 30,000 people is a paradise for outdoor lovers. The beautiful landscape provides something of a living laboratory for Garmin Canada, which researches and develops outdoor fitness and wireless technologies. “The appeal of Cochrane is so many of the products we build are tested right here,” says Rooney. “You can get on your bike or lace up your shoes and within a few minutes be on the paths.” Rooney’s acquaintance with Cochrane began long before Garmin Canada built its 3,716-square-metre headquarters in the community back in September 2018. Cochrane has been Rooney’s home for two decades, and it’s where he chose to launch his own tech company. Rooney and three founding partners started Dynastream Inc. with the idea of creating a speed and distance monitor for runners. In 1998, they began by tinkering in Rooney’s garage. Dynastream ended up with a pretty innovative product. Innovative enough to make Nike the company’s first customer and, not long after, the founders started seeing their technology in slick ads splashed across the pages of sports magazines. “It was pretty cool,” notes Rooney. Dynastream continued to develop new products, adding wearable technologies and heart monitors to its portfolio. It wasn’t long before the company was competing with the global tech company Garmin International, which developed some of the first GPS watches on the market. The Cochrane-based Dynastream didn’t back down; instead, the partners approached Garmin International with their inertia navigation sensing system. “We told them, ‘you need what we have,’” says Rooney, adding Garmin International quickly went from Dynastream’s biggest competitor to its biggest customer. A few years later, in 2006, Garmin International bought Dynastream for $36 million. As the newly acquired company grew, the founders had to decide whether to stay in Cochrane or move to downtown Calgary. Garmin Canada chose to stay. “We really wanted to grow our roots here in Cochrane,” says Rooney.

Today, Garmin Canada employs more than 100 full-time staff, predominantly engineers who service most of Garmin International’s fitness and outdoor segments. Mike Korman, Cochrane’s economic development manager, says the company has been a boon to the community. “What Garmin means to Cochrane is optimism and opportunity,” he says. With no business tax and one of the lowest non-residential tax rates in the region, Korman says the town works hard to attract innovative businesses.

journey as part of the Dynastream start-up team. “It was a lifestyle choice for us,” says Brilz. “We wanted a small community for raising our children.” The Alberta-born engineers chose to stay in the town and began their own startup after Garmin bought Dynastream. 4iiii Innovations’ first product was an audio-visual display for cyclists and was released in 2012. The Cochranebased company now has a global reach and has continued adding new technology to its product offerings – even branching out and developing

“Cochrane is becoming a tech hub… a number of companies are being attracted here.” – Victoria Brilz, co-founder of 4iiii Innovations

“[The town is] looking to lead the charge from a technology perspective,” adds Korman. “We want to attract people with great ideas and have them stay here.” It seems to be working. The town was recognized as one of the most entrepreneurial communities in Canada from 2012 to 2014 by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business and, according to Korman, 90 percent of the businesses that start in Cochrane stay and a lot of those companies are tech-based, making it known as somewhat of a tech hub. One of those tech companies is 4iiii Innovations. Married couple Kip Fyfe and Victoria Brilz, 4iiii’s founders, were attracted to Cochrane even before they began their entrepreneurial

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

products for other industries, such as the oil and gas sector. Today, 4iiii Innovations employs about 130 people worldwide and is the official powermeter supplier to a number of elite teams, including the British Triathlon Federation. The town still remains the ideal place for growing the company. “[The town] has really gone out of their way to accommodate us,” says Brilz, noting that besides ensuring their technological needs are met, Cochrane’s administration includes business in their plans for the future. “Cochrane is becoming a tech hub… a number of companies are being attracted here,” says Brilz. “And so many of our young families are choosing to stay here. It is a feel-good place.”

2020

invest in alberta

CALGARY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

SPENDING ON DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION in Calgary to top $7.5B through 2022

DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY IS POISED TO

Companies are forecast to spend $7.5 billion on digital transformation across all industries in Calgary through 2022, representing a compound annual growth rate of 20%.

invest in alberta

disrupt virtually every aspect of business as the growing connectivity between people, machines and organizations dramatically alters the business models for companies across all industrial sectors. As business embraces the new economy, the scope of the opportunity is becoming clear and companies are forecast to spend $7.5 billion on digital transformation across all industries in Calgary through 2022 as expenditures steadily ramp up. Spending on digital transformation in the province, much of it driven from Calgary, is forecast to grow at a compound annual rate of 20 per cent over the next three years as disruptive technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) begin reshaping our economy. The forecast on digital transformation, or DX as it is known in the tech sector, was compiled for Calgary Economic Development by the consultancy International Data Corp. Canada. Calgary is the first city in Canada to forecast the digital spend across its key industries in areas such as AI, the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), next generation security, 3D printing, augmented reality/virtual reality (AR/VR), and robotics. Innovation is one of the four pillars of the Economic Strategy, Calgary in the New Economy, for the city that was approved in 2018. The impetus for companies to increase spending on DX is a competitive edge as digitization is poised to disrupt all key industries. The energy industry is expected to account for about onequarter of the total investment in digitization in Alberta. However, most of the spending will occur in diverse sectors including creative industries, manufacturing, logistics, financial services, life sciences and agribusiness.

2020

The data firm IDC Canada forecasts that agribusiness will be the fastest adopter of digitization. The forecast was released by Calgary Economic Development last year during Collision, North America’s fastest growing tech conference, and provided the 25,000 delegates attending Collision more perspective on the growing tech scene in Calgary. The research underscored the employment opportunities in Calgary for top talent looking to resolve real-world challenges in areas such as cleaner energy, safer food, better health and safer transportation of people and goods. With more than 2,000 tech jobs currently open in Calgary, the opportunities for tech workers are here now. “We intend to be disruptors in industry in the new economy, not the disrupted,” Mary Moran, President and Chief Executive Officer of Calgary Economic Development, told journalists attending the conference that attracts top talent and innovative companies globally. Calgary has a fast-growing tech ecosystem and the goal of the study was to quantify the spend for the engines of growth and innovation to ensure companies and top talent realize the scope of opportunity we have to take on global challenges. As the country’s energy capital, Alberta accounts for about onethird of all the spending on digitization of the vast network of energy systems across Canada. About $4.2 billion of the overall spend in the sector nationally is forecast to be by companies in Alberta in oil and gas, electric utilities and power companies, renewables and cleantech. The companies — and the people — that embrace change, adopt new technology and adapt to the new realities will have the best opportunity to succeed in the new economy.

For more information contact: Calgary Economic Development 403-221-7831 info@calgaryeconomicdevelopment.com www.calgaryeconomicdevelopment.com

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CALGARY IS

INTO BIG DATA CALGARY HAS OVER 2,300 AUTONOMOUS TECHNOLOGY COMPANIES. We’re all over AI, blockchain and autonomous technologies. We’re even thinking of changing our name to Silicon Prairie. We think it could really take off.

bepartoftheenergy.ca

INNOVATION BY

COLLABORATION Unique networks across Alberta are at the ready to help innovators take their ideas and turn them into successful businesses

PHOTO COURTESY: RADIX INNOVATION

BY DAWN SMITH

SAND SORTER: Collection tanks used in Sandtinelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s advanced multi-phase particle separation system remove more than 95 percent of produced sand.

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2020

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PHOTOS COURTESY: OLDS COLLEGE

RENT RHEAUME WAS INSPIRED by the power of entrepreneurship at a young age. Growing up in St. Brieux, a small town located in Alberta’s neighbouring province of Saskatchewan, he watched as a local family of agriculture innovators started a business that grew to have a multinational footprint and become the town’s largest employer. “That is what drives me… be innovative, make it work and put people to work,” says Rheaume, an engineer by trade and CEO of Radix Innovation Corp. Rheaume founded Radix Innovation in Grande Prairie, an Alberta city of more than 60,000 people that sits in the midst of a major oil and gas hub about 450 kilometres northwest of Edmonton. Radix Innovation works with oil and gas companies to engineer solutions, and then the company commercializes the products. Radix Innovation found success with Sandtinel Sand Separators, which was patented in 2011, and more recently developed software to detect pipeline leaks with Pipewise Technology. Rheaume notes that his entrepreneurial success can be attributed to more than just a childhood inspiration and innovative products – help from the Grande Prairie Regional Innovation Network (GPRIN) played a big part. “Bob [Hall] became a bit of a mentor to me,” says Rheaume, adding that the help he received from GPRIN with networking, financial support and business planning was invaluable. “The RIN and the fact that Bob sits in Grande Prairie is huge. You can’t beat that regular face-to-face interaction.” Bob Hall is a technology development advisor with GPRIN. The innovation network is one of eight Regional Innovation Networks (RINs) across the province, which are supported by Alberta

OCCI’s greenhouse was used to develop the cold climate floating islands.

Innovates – a provincially funded corporation designed to support research and technology development in the core sectors of health, environment, energy, food and fibre, and platforms such as artificial intelligence and nanotechnology. Alberta’s RINs are collaborations of local organizations, such as chambers of commerce, post-secondary institutes and economic development offices, that help entrepreneurs along the road to success. Each RIN has created their own recipe to support innovation and entrepreneurship, which partly comes from the innovators in

Edmonton, the 16 members of the Central Alberta Regional Innovation Network (CARIN) are the RIN helping to put that puzzle together. CARIN’s greatest success is its ability to collaborate and advise for the benefit of the clients in its region. “Within CARIN, we try to make sure everyone knows what each [member] offers,” says Karla Petersen, who focuses on entrepreneurship and innovation at the Olds College Centre of Innovation (OCCI) and is co-chair of CARIN. “We say every door is the right door.”

“Innovation and entrepreneurship has and continues to create a lot of wealth in northwest Alberta.” – Bob Hall, technology development advisor with Grande Prairie Regional Innovation Network

each region who work with budding entrepreneurs on their unique ideas. Rheaume is one of those innovators within the GPRIN who works with new entrepreneurs tapping into the network, as a way to support his ethos of “be innovative, make it work and put people to work.” “Innovation and entrepreneurship has and continues to create a lot of wealth in northwest Alberta,” says Hall. Using innovation and entrepreneurship to create wealth is a rich tradition right across Alberta. The RINs provide resources, knowledge and connections in an effort to continue that tradition and move innovators from idea to marketplace. It’s an important piece of the economic development puzzle. In the stretch of Alberta between Calgary and

OCCI’s climate floating island demonstration on an actual pond.

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

This collaborative attitude is born out of a passion to see practical solutions for industry problems – the cornerstone of innovation, according to Petersen. CARIN has some success stories, including one involving the OCCI. Ruth Elvestad, a research technician at OCCI, is involved in a program in which the post-secondary institute is working to solve a real-world problem with High Plains Industrial Park in Balzac (a small community a few kilometres north of Calgary’s city limits) and the Alberta Real Estate Foundation. The OCCI is developing an environmentally safe, sustainable way to remediate water. The project, based in an OCCI greenhouse and in the industrial park, is investigating how effective cold climate floating islands (meshlined, floating “mini wetlands” filled with pond bottom soil and planted with native wetland perennials), can be used in filtering nutrients and contaminants from water. The success of the program has sparked interest from others in the region, including agricultural feedlots, golf courses, towns and municipalities, and the oil and gas industry. “It’s a beautiful example of how innovation is based on solving everyday problems in a cost-effective way,” says Elvestad. “For every problem, there is a partner that needs the problem solved.” And for every Albertan entrepreneur, there’s a Regional Innovation Network ready to help. 2020

invest in alberta

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COUNTY OF GRANDE PRAIRIE

WHERE INNOVATION AND OPPORTUNITY CONVERGE post-secondary institutions offer a range of education and training options; and Grande Prairie Regional College has been given degree granting status, further supporting the region’s growth. Major rail, air and highway links provide a gateway to local and international markets. Investments in transportation infrastructure, like the recent opening of the Highway 43X Bypass west of the City of Grande Prairie, are testament to the healthy economy, and the commitment to moving goods, people and ideas more effectively, efficiently and safely.

DRIVING THE ECONOMY RESPONSIBLY, INNOVATIVELY AND COLLABORATIVELY

Photo by Judith Ann Standring

... the County’s approach to managing growth is an innovative blueprint for balancing quality of life with economic and population growth in a way that’s both smart and sustainable...

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WITH ITS STRONG ECONOMIC generators, a reputation for entrepreneurial excellence, and a pro-business attitude, it comes as no surprise that investors and businesses across the globe have their eye on the County of Grande Prairie. Located 460 kilometres northwest of Edmonton, the County of Grande Prairie is home to a robust economic base that includes forestry, energy, agriculture, construction and manufacturing, as well as tourism, hospitality and retail. It’s this diverse economy that has been a stabilizing factor in shaping economic resiliency, even during times of economic uncertainty. A competitive tax structure, plenty of land for development, and an unparalleled quality of life that offers a mix of urban and rural living adds to the appeal of the area. A major draw for business is a trade area of nearly 290,000 people within a 200-kilometre drive, a large young, experienced and educated pool of talent, and a median family income of $134,049. Retail spending in the area in 2018 totalled $4.7 billion. Educational opportunities and healthcare are first-class: construction of the new Grande Prairie Regional Hospital and Cancer Centre is underway; local

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As an economic powerhouse, the County has earned its reputation as a region that supports businesses and entrepreneurs. The County has taken an active role working with the business community and government to facilitate and support the development, attraction, and retention of a skilled talent pool. From June 15 to 19, Business Retention & Expansion International, the world leader in business retention and expansion education, certification and training, will take its 2020 annual conference to Grande Prairie. The event will feature a collection of top-notch business retention and expansion speakers with a mix of tracks to include both educators and practitioners of BRE. For registration details visit www.brei.org.

MORE THAN A BUZZWORD “Innovation,” says Chris King, the County’s Economic Development Manager, “is more than buzzword at the County.” He maintains it’s the County’s out-of-the-box, proactive approach to planning that creates a sustainable, socially responsible and diversified environment. And that, he says, is making the County a destination of choice for people to live, invest and do business. King credits the County’s smart and responsible growth strategy

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Weyerhaeuser - used with permission

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Grande Prairie. Providing alternative transportation options increases rural-urban connectivity, linking residents to jobs; healthcare and educational facilities; and shopping and activities. Take a quick glance around the Grande Prairie area at the newly constructed buildings, and it’s clear that this transit project is timely. Brand new infrastructure in all four corners of the County is a sign of robust growth. More recent projects include a new school, two new culture and recreation centres, and a new modern firehall.

ACTIVE LIFESTYLES ARE PART OF THE LOCAL DNA

Photo by Carolyn Morgan

grounded in collaboration and innovation as one of the drivers turning the areas’ vast natural resources into world-class opportunities. One project gaining global interest is the TriMunicipal Partnership (TMIP), a proposed heavy ecoindustrial district – a partnership between the County, the City of Grande Prairie and the Municipal District of Greenview. The site will be shovel ready for investors, minimizing approval time so industry can focus on capital investment and industrial operations. With its proximity to the prolific world-class Montney-Duvernay shale gas plays, the 335 square kilometre industrial district, located on Highway 40 south of the County, will attract value-added processing in the petrochemical industry. Also shaping the local economy are the forestry and agricultural sectors. The County is located in the province’s Peace Region, an area that’s earned a global reputation for its forest and agricultural products. The Peace is one of the top two Alberta regions for the production of forest products – first for employment in the forestry sector – and is the leading producer of pulp, paper and panelboard. It is also renowned for its high-quality agricultural products.

The County continues to explore the potential of geothermal as an alternative energy source for the development. “I think the County’s approach to managing growth is an innovative blueprint for balancing quality of life with economic and population growth in a way that’s both smart and sustainable,” says King. The Province of Alberta recognized the strategic and economic importance of the Grande Prairie area, funding a two-year public transit pilot project connecting County communities with the City of

Local residents love being active. A diverse arts and culture scene offers a breadth of options ranging from museums, to international entertainers, to a rich and diverse community of local artists. An abundance of recreation facilities provide activity year-round – from soccer and hockey to running and racquet sports. A stunning outdoor landscape right out the back door is especially appealing for those who bike, hike, ski, boat or camp, as well as for those who prefer outdoor adventure on a snow machine or ATV. It’s clear why “quality of life” continually earns top marks in local community satisfaction surveys. The County of Grande Prairie has proven itself as a dynamic hub with a friendly vibe. It’s here where innovation, community values and opportunity converge, growing the County into a successful Canadian and international player.

Clairmont Heights - Downtown

SMART AND SUSTAINABLE GROWTH With population steadily on the rise, the County saw a unique opportunity to develop a greenfield community that incorporates mixed land uses and natural amenities. The design for Clairmont Heights in Clairmont, a small but rapidly growing County community, weaves ingenuity and responsibility to create a vibrant and sustainable lakeshore community.

For more information contact: Christopher King Economic Development Manager 780-513-3956 cking@countygp.ab.ca middleofeverywhere.ca https://countygp.ecdev.org/

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

Hetti Huis Economic Development Coordinator 780-532-9722 ext. 1201 hhuis@countygp.ab.ca

2020

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TOWN OF MAYERTHORPE

NEW OPPORTUNITY THE TOWN OF MAYERTHORPE IS strategically located at the junction of Highway 43 and Highway 22, 130 km (80 mi.) northwest of Edmonton. It is an ideally located community serving a trading area in excess of 46,000 people with a large skilled labour force.

Mayerthorpe offers great long-term potential including new construction, development and tax incentives, an affordable land base, direct access to CN Rail (with nearby secondary access to CP), and highway commercial and light industrial land bases for your business. Residential land is affordable and families have access to outstanding schools offering kindergarten through Grade 12. WHAT’S UNIQUE Mayerthorpe has a large land base with direct access to well-maintained roadways Highway 43 and Highway 22, CN Rail, and a sanitary sewer main

line. The Town offers unique tax incentives for businesses such as new construction, development and infill tax rebate programs, and has an active business support network. At approximately 110 km from the industrial centre of Acheson, Mayerthorpe has the power and gas capacity to meet your business’s needs. LOTS FOR SALE • 22 Highway Commercial/Light Industrial lots fronting onto Highway 43 and Highway 22 currently available for purchase • 8 New Residential lots for sale • 10+ Single Family Residential Infill lots currently available • 5+ Single Family Residential lots in the newest part of town.

Direct Access to CN Rail Direct Access to CN Rail Fully Operational Municipal Airport

For more information contact: Town of Mayerthorpe Box 420 Mayerthorpe, Alberta T0E 1N0 Email: cao@mayerthorpe.ca Phone: 780-786-2416

Utility Infrastructure Capacity Utility Infrastructure Capacity Developer/Subdivision/Tax Incentives

Fully Operational Airport Access to Highway Municipal 43 & Highway 22

Developer/Subdivision/Tax 110+/KM from Acheson/West Incentives Edmonton Access to Highway 43 & Highway 22 Commercial & Light Industrial Land Base 110 +/- Km from Acheson/West Edmonton Commercial & Light Industrial Land Base

mymayerthorpe

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mayerthorpe1

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AGRICULTURE

& AGRI-FOODS

North Central, Slave Lake, Peace Country, Mackenzie, Northeast, West Yellowhead | p. 60 South Central | p. 66

$14.6 billion

2016 sales for Alberta’s processed food and beverage industry reached $14.9 billion, making it Alberta’s second highest manufacturing industry on a revenue basis.

Alberta’s Major Agricultural Products This map highlights where a few exciting stories of economic innovation in this particular sector of Alberta’s economy are taking place and is not meant to be a representation of the entirety of activity in this sector throughout the province.

Farm Cash Receipts for 2017 (in $ billions) $14.1 billion Cattle & Calves – $4.80 Canola – $3.08 Wheat (incl. Durum) – $2.07 Peas, Beans & Lentils – $0.66 Dairy – $0.59 Hogs – $0.43 Poultry & Eggs – $0.38 Oats, Rye & Barley – $0.29 Other – $1.80 Sources: Alberta Economic Development and Trade, Statistics Canada

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

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BUDDING

OPPORTUNITY

PHOTOS COURTESY: BIOCOMPOSITES GROUP

A collaborative effort is underway to push Alberta’s hemp industry to the forefront of a global movement BY MAGGIE BREMSKI

LBERTA IS KNOWN FOR MANY things – beautiful scenery, talented workforce, diverse economy, abundant resources, long summer days – and a concerted effort is underway in the province to add hemp to that list. If successful, abundance and long days will have a lot to do with it. Over the past 20 years, farmers and producers in Alberta have been quietly building the province’s hemp industry from this highly versatile plant, particularly in the unique climate of northern Alberta. More hours of sunshine, acres of fertile soils and cooler nights offer a prime environment to grow tall, healthy hemp. “Plants range from 12 to 15 feet in height,” says Troy Grainger, manager of the Grizzly Regional Economic Alliance Society (GROWTH Alberta), which is a regional economic development alliance of 10 municipalities in north central Alberta. “A tangible portion of Canada’s industry is in Alberta.” Taller plants result in a 20 to 30 percent increase in fibre output, optimal fibre quality and seeds with a higher concentration of hearthealthy omegas. In an effort to help spread that message, GROWTH Alberta teamed up with the other Regional Economic Development Alliances of northern Alberta to form the Hemp Alberta Northern Advantage (HANA). “This area represents the northern-most viable agricultural land in the world, and there’s lots of it,” says Dan Dibbelt, executive director of the Peace Region Economic Development Alliance (PREDA) and the Regional Economic Development Initiative of Northern Alberta (REDI) – both HANA members. In 2017, there were 138,000 acres of hemp planted in Canada and 44,700 of it was in Alberta. The province also holds the highest number of licenses for cultivating industrial hemp of all provinces in Canada, and industry experts agree that this is likely just the starting point.

“Over the next 10 years, we’re going to see an upward growth curve for the hemp industry in this province,” says Diane Chiasson, former lead of HANA and currently working on rural development and entrepreneurship at Conseil de développement économique de l’Alberta (CODA), an organization focused on Francophone economic development in Alberta. Since the introduction of the Cannabis Act in 2018, even more exciting and profitable opportunities have emerged, as farmers and producers are able to utilize the entire plant – beyond the seed and fibre. So much so that the Canadian Hemp Trade Alliance projects that by 2023,

regional economic alliance of 38 communities and a HANA member. The Alberta HUB region is also home to North America’s largest research and development decorticator facility – the Innotech Alberta Vegreville site, which is a division of Alberta Innovates. Decorticators are the machines that process bales of hemp and flax stock into plant fibres. The Vegreville facility was built in 2011 with funding from the provincial government as a pilot project, and this 13,000-square-foot facility works closely with partners to move the industry forward and optimize cultivation practices.

“From a social, economic and environmental standpoint, this is the crop of the future.” – Bob Bezpalko, executive director of the Northeast Alberta Information HUB

hemp will be a $1 billion industry and estimates suggest that for every 10,000 acres of hemp, 150 direct jobs and $70 million would be added to the value chain. Hemp’s versatility and multiple uses are part of the reason the crop is getting global attention. The seeds can be produced for human or animal consumption, the flower buds and leaves can be manufactured into medicinal cannabidiol (CBD), and the stalks can be processed for fibre production. The harvesting process creates virtually no waste, requires little energy, uses a crop rotation that increases soil health and one that also sequesters carbon. The resulting end-product includes everything from quality textiles, strong bioplastics and sturdy building materials to healthy oils, hemp hearts and hemp milk. “From a social, economic and environmental standpoint, this is the crop of the future,” says Bob Bezpalko, executive director of the Northeast Alberta Information HUB (Alberta HUB), a

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

“The reason Alberta is ahead of the curve on hemp is largely due to the Alberta government’s investment by our taxpayers,” says Dan Madlung, president at BioComposites Group. Located in Drayton Valley, a town of about 7,000 people that’s situated approximately 130 kilometres southwest of Edmonton, BioComposites Group began manufacturing several products using hemp fibre in 2017. One line of products, automotive door panels, is being tested in high-end cars including BMW, Audi and Mercedes Benz. The company also develops substrates like microgreens, hydroponics and erosion control. While there are several opportunities for invesment to help the supply chain reach its full potential, the seeds have been planted for a healthy and robust industry. With acres of prime land, experienced farmers and groups like HANA, Alberta is signaling to the world that it’s ready for expansion and already leading this incredible crop into the future. 2020

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BATTLE RIVER REGION (Inclusive of Flagstaff County and Paintearth County)

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BETTER TOGETHER

Regional Collaboration for Economic Prosperity

“Thanks to the communities and people who see the value in supporting local businesses, and to the well-educated work force, the Battle River Railway is the well-established business it is today.” – Matthew Enright, General Manager, Battle River Railway NGC Inc.

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THE BATTLE RIVER ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES COMMITTEE (BREOC) consists of: the Counties of Flagstaff and Paintearth; the Towns of Castor and Coronation; and the Villages of Forestburg, Heisler, and Halkirk. Recognizing that there is strength in unity, they are collaboratively tapping into their individual strengths and competitive advantages to become the place to do business. The Battle River Region has deep roots in Energy. For over 50 years it has been home to energy players competing on a global scale; from the Battle River Power Generator to the Hardisty Tank Farm and the countless local suppliers that support the energy sector. But while deep roots provide stability, growth requires innovation and diversification and the Region’s energy sector has embraced this. As a result, exciting changes are happening here. Some of the many examples of this include: Gibson Energy’s North American Control Centres moving to the Region, the Battle River Generating Stations reinvesting with a conversion to natural gas, and Westmoreland Coal Company diversifying into green energy sources, such as bio-solids. The Region is also the home of the single largest wind-power project in Alberta and continues to capitalize on sustainable energy opportunities. The Battle River Region is also an agricultural powerhouse, with the Region contributing much to the success of Alberta’s agriculture industry. The area boasts strong crop production, significant livestock capacity and is being explored for significant value-added production opportunities. With the Region’s historic rural lifestyle and unmatched beauty, it should be no surprise that tourism is one of Battle River’s key industries. The breathtaking provincial parks, historic resource sites, skiing, golfing, camping, and even themed historic train rides, make it so there truly is a little something for everyone. Because of the Region’s strong base in traditional tourism, its relative access to markets, and its striking beauty, it is now poised to take advantage of the growing agritourism and adventure tourism industries. The Region is as accessible as it is beautiful. Located in

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Eastern Alberta, Canada, Battle River is situated on several key transportation corridors providing easy access to major markets. Highways 12 and 36 form part of the Eastern Alberta Trade Corridor and the Ports-to-Plains Alliance network connecting Canada, USA, and Mexico. Highways 53 and 13 provide an east/ west trade corridor and the Region is serviced by two rail lines: the Battle River Railway Short-Line and the Canadian Pacific Railway, coast-to-coast. Finally, the Edmonton International Airport is only 150 km away and the Region has two of its own Municipal Airports. The Region boasts all of the assets you would expect to find in a thriving business community. It offers proximity to a large affluent market; competitive business costs; a skilled workforce with an innovative, pioneer spirit; and a strong economic growth plan focused on facilitating inbound investment, local business success, and entrepreneurship. “Kal Tire in Sedgewick has been servicing the Battle River Region for the last 30 years and can’t say enough about the tremendous support and loyalty from our clients throughout the region. The Battle River Region has been a great place to live and do business.” – Hal Sparrow, Store Owner To top it all off, the Battle River Region is a great place to live! Boasting an impressive array of amenities including pools, ice rinks, soccer pitches, and golf courses the Region is a comfortable and safe place to call home. Schools 11 Health Care Facilities 26 Libraries 10 Ice rinks 13 Pools/Aquatic Centres 5 Soccer/Baseball Fields 16 Golf Courses 9 The Battle River Region is moving forward. In an era of decline, the Region is capitalizing on change and finding prosperity. The only question is, why aren’t you here?

For more information contact: www.growbattleriver.com Flagstaff Economic Development (780) 384-4152 Paintearth Economic Partnership Society (403) 882-3211

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Grow

Battle River County of Paintearth

Flagstaff County

Town of Castor

Communities Band together for GROWTH

Westmoreland STRENGTHENED by diversifying its operations

Town of Coronation

Village of Forestburg

Village of Heisler

Village of Halkirk

5 to 10 million

barrel storage capacity increase at Gibsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hardisty Terminal

Region Explores Value Added Agriculture

BATTLE RIVER GENERATING STATION CONVERTS TO NATURAL GAS

These stories and more! growbattleriver.com Flagstaff Economic Development

Paintearth Economic Partnership Society

(780) 384-4152

(403) 882-3211

Acknowledgements Grow Battle River wishes to recognize the support from:

TOWN OF WESTLOCK

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A COMMUNITY WITH SPIRIT!

Excellent opportunities for business growth and expansion awaits you in Westlock.

LOCATED JUST 85 KILOMETERS NORTH

Westlock has the space to grow and has a business-friendly environment.

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of Edmonton, at the crossroads of Highway 18 and Highway 44, we offer quick and easy access to major markets and transportation routes. Industrial, commercial and residential lots are available to suit your needs. Prime locations with ample parking are available downtown. Westlock has outstanding medical services and amenities such as a fully serviced hospital, a long term care facility and a wide range of medical service providers. Recreation opportunities are plentiful which includes the Westlock Rotary Spirit Centre housing a standard NHL size arena, walking/running track, fieldhouse and fitness centre. Westlock Aquatic Centre offers a fitness centre, a full indoor six lane pool, a steam room, hot tub and a virtual rec room, featuring a high definition golf stimulator with multi-sport capabilities and is compatible with game consoles for patrons who wish to have a theatre style gaming experience. Westlock Curling Centre has a 4-sheet ice surface as well as an upstairs lounge. With 9.1 km on the Westlock Rotary Trail, a 13,000 sq. ft. skateboard park and the Mountie Park campground, there is something for everyone. Westlock has a diverse economy, excellent transportation connections and Telus Fibre technological infrastructure. Fibre optics has provided a unique opportunity for our entire community with faster internet speeds to be enjoyed by individuals and families. This allows our businesses to compete globally regardless of their size and location because the network

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enables faster uploads, file sharing and online collaboration. The Canadian National Railway runs a secondary main through our Community and has spur tracks available. The Westlock Municipal Airport is located 6 kilometres east and 1 kilometre south of Westlock with a runway of 1036.58m. A community experiencing steady growth with a population of 5,101, we offer an affordable cost of living, fantastic recreational opportunities, friendly people, a rural lifestyle and a community with spirit! Westlock has the space to grow and has a business-friendly environment. We take pride in our community in delivering the highest level of service to both our residents and businesses. The opportunities for supporting business in transportation, information technology, communications, business and manufacturing are tremendous. Now is the time to capitalize on our opportunities and expand your vision.

For further information: Contact the Economic Development Department at 780-350-2109 or visit our website at www.westock.ca

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LIFE IS GOOD HERE

Why Westlock? • Located on two major highways, Highways 18 and 44 • CN runs a secondary main throughout the community and has spur tracks available • 85 KMS to Edmonton • Lower real estate costs than large centres • Streamlined approval process • High quality of life • Fibre Optics • A COMMUNITY WITH SPIRIT!

780-349-4444 www.westlock.ca info@westlock.ca

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2020

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SERVING UP AN ALTERNATIVE

OPPORTUNITY Plant protein popularity is on the rise, and Alberta’s agriculture sector has already sewn the seeds for capitalizing on its success

PHOTOS COURTESY: ROWLAND FARMS

BY KELLEY STARK N MAY 2019, BEYOND MEAT INC. proved that making plant-based proteins is a billion-dollar business. The U.S.-based company went public and listed its shares at $25 each on the Nasdaq, raising $240 million at a valuation of nearly $1.5 billion. Plant proteins are now big business and their rise to prominence has made plant-based protein options common on restaurant menus – and Alberta’s Rowland Farms saw this trend coming. Rowland Farms has about 40,000 irrigated and dryland acres across the sprawling prairies about 275 kilometres south of Calgary. The company is Western Canada’s largest organic producer and has been in the organic food business since 1984. Four or five years ago, Rowland Farms started to see an increasing interest in crops like peas, pulses, beans, chickpeas and even hemp. “The growth in alternative protein products is very, very strong and will likely be strong for a while,” says Keith Jones, general manager and CFO of Rowland Farms. “That’s one of the reasons we got involved fairly early on in Protein Industries Canada, because we could see our customers demanding more alternative plant proteins.” Protein Industries Canada (PIC) is a group of businesses, post-secondary institutions and non-profits working together to make Canada a world leader in the plant protein market. The non-profit organization was awarded $153 million from the federal government in November 2018 through its Innovation Superclusters Initiative – a program designed to create innovation hotbeds in a handful of select sectors with strategic investments that will provide a long-term competitive advantage, global brand recognition, and an outsized positive impact on job creation and economic growth. PIC announced its first funded project in June

2019. Calgary-based Botaneco Inc., which formed in 2014 to commercialize a new oilseed processing technique, will receive a total of $8 million to help commercialize its technology that will yield a variety of new oil and protein products from crops such as canola and hemp. PIC matched industry funding of $4 million, including financial investment from Rowland Farms. “From an investing perspective,” says Rowland Farms’ Jones, “I think plant protein has some legs

Lewington is also a board member of the Plant Protein Alliance of Alberta (PPAA). The alliance is a province-wide initiative to connect producers, processors, investors, retailers, universities and colleges, and the government to work on projects together. The PPAA’s goal is similar to PIC’s goal to develop more processing capabilities in the province and add value to the raw commodities produced by the more than 15,000 crop farmers in the province.

“Anytime there’s a consumer that opens their wallet or purse looking for an alternative, we want to make sure Western Canada is the one to satisfy that market demand.” – Keith Jones, general manager and CFO of Rowland Farms to it. Our expectation is the protein market will grow to be about double of the current organic market penetration. That’s a lot of growth opportunity. Anytime there’s a consumer that opens their wallet or purse looking for an alternative, we want to make sure Western Canada is the one to satisfy that market demand.” It’s a market that is expected to grow in tandem with global population numbers. PIC estimates that by 2050, global food demand will rise by 70 percent. “It’s just not possible to meet that growing demand with animals entirely, so there’s a huge opportunity to feed the world and provide the protein that’s required in plant-based proteins,” says Trevor Lewington, CEO of Economic Development Lethbridge, an organization supporting Alberta’s third largest city that sits in the midst of fertile farmland about 225 kilometres south of Calgary.

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

“There’s all kinds of food processing that happens here in Alberta,” says Lewington, “but in terms of plant protein, we export the raw commodity to another country – in particular, China – where it’s processed. Then we pay more to bring the finished product back.” Through the work of PIC and PPAA, Alberta has the opportunity to change the flow of plant protein production and become a global player in the plant protein market. “Part of the reason that the federal government has invested in this, and part of the reason I think there’s so much energy and attention, is that Canada — Alberta specifically — really has the opportunity to dominate in this category globally,” says Lewington. “Canada is wellrespected and well-positioned for the most part. We’ve got all the right ingredients to dominate in this space; Canada could be a global leader.” 2020

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MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF GREENVIEW

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GREENVIEW:

Expand your vision and invest with confidence

LOCATED IN ALBERTA’S NORTHWEST,

Greenview continues to attract petrochemical investment and is gaining global attention as one of the most productive regions in Canada.

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Greenview is a vast and diverse area rich in oil and gas, fertile farmland, winding rivers, mixed wood forests, and spectacular peaks of the Rockies. As the third-largest rural municipality in the province, Greenview boasts a spectacular diversity in economic activities and an extraordinary range of landscape, making it very unique. Oil and gas, agriculture, forestry, and tourism form the economic foundation of a geographic area that spans more than 32,000 square kilometres. Alberta is the cornerstone of Canada’s energy industry and we are in the heart of it all. Situated in the core of the Deep Basin, Greenview is poised to become Alberta’s centre of energy diversification for the future. Our economy is strengthened by our access to natural resources, which have transformed into world-class industries. Through regional cooperation, Greenview has partnered with neighbouring municipalities to create a world-class heavy industrial park, known as the Tri-Municipal Industrial Partnership. Utilizing the Montney-Duvernay shale gas play, this project will attract value-added processing in the petrochemical industry. The area is estimated to be one of the most prolific natural gas plays within North America. Greenview is one step closer to Alberta’s first geothermal power plant, partnering with Terrapin Geothermics and PCL Construction on an advanced made-in-Alberta renewable-power solution that will continue to diversify our local economy and provide Alberta’s power grid with clean, renewable energy. In the fall of 2019, the province advanced this project, which will be the first conventional geothermal energy project in Alberta. The government granted Terrapin the rights to conduct testing operations and explore the geothermal potential of an area within

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Greenview, south of Grande Prairie. This will allow Terrapin to begin seeking regulatory approvals for its geothermal power project. This advancement means the project is one step closer to operating test wells. Harnessing geothermal energy is a method of creating electricity without coal, natural gas, wind or sunlight. It powers generators using brine from natural reservoirs more than 2000 metres below ground, which are heated by thermal energy from deep inside the Earth. Once the thermal energy has been extracted from the brine and converted to electricity or used for heating, the brine is cycled back underground, where it will heat up again. Terrapin’s geothermal energy facility will produce renewable power that runs 24/7 with zero carbon emissions and minimal ongoing fuel costs. The project has been named “Alberta No. 1”, hinting to Alberta’s status as a leader in oil and gas. Greenview is also part of Alberta’s Peace Region, home to the province’s top ranked employers in the forestry sector and second highest region for production of forest products. The region is Alberta’s leading producer of pulp, paper, and panel board. Long summer days provide an exceptional growing season for Greenview’s agricultural producers. Fed with the pure glacial waters of the Peace River watershed system, the region has unique growing advantages for a wide range of crops, contributing to the province’s agricultural economy. Our region’s extraordinary range of landscape from meadows to mountains, promises an abundance of year-round adventures for outdoor and recreational enthusiasts. Our untamed wilderness provides for a wealth of incredible tourism opportunities. Greenview has the space to grow and a business-friendly environment. Not only do we offer incredible investment opportunities, we also take pride in our communities as a great place to live and play. With one of the lowest commercial and industrial tax rates in Alberta, Greenview has a definite competitive edge. Expand your vision and invest with confidence.

For more information contact: Kevin Keller, Manager, Economic Development 780-524-7623 invest@mdgreenview.ab.ca www.Expandyourvision.ca | www.mdgreenview.ab.ca

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photo credit: Terrapin Geothermics

Municipal District of Greenview

HOME OF ENERGY DIVERSIFICATION

MONTNEY FORMATION BASIN 130,000 sq. km

Grande Prairie

DUVERNAY SHALE BASIN 100,000 sq. km

Situated in the heart of the Deep Basin, Greenview is attracting global attention as one of the most productive regions in the country. Strategically located, with multiple access routes linking business beyond our borders, we offer many diverse investment opportunities within our vast, unique region.

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Edmonton

Grovedale

Valleyview

Calgary Fox Creek

Grande Cache

CO-OPERATIVES FIRST

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THE OFTEN-OVERLOOKED ECONOMIC GEM OF THE PRAIRIES Much of Western Canada was settled with the help of co-ops, but the model remains underutilized. “We also provide consulting services for engineering services that relate to housing or public infrastructure in First Nations communities.” This unique partnership reduces costs and increases quality control for these types of services on First Nations. And it’s just getting started. Soon, Isnana hopes to leverage the co-op’s purchasing power and centralize administration of these services online.

CONSIDER A CO-OP

FOR MUCH OF THE EARLY 20 th CENTURY,

For those looking to improve investment readiness, increase business retention and expansion, and retain vital infrastructure, the co-op model is a solid option. Contact us today to learn more.

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co-ops brought electricity to farms and rural communities in Alberta and helped farmers across the Prairies get fairer prices for their products. Buying co-ops brought goods and fuel to settler communities, making these goods more affordable. And the legacy of these co-ops can still be found throughout the Prairie Provinces.

FUELLING WESTERN CANADA A great example of this legacy is the Co-op Refinery Complex in Regina, Saskatchewan. When fuel prices got too high in the 1930s eight enterprising farmers banded together to build a refinery. Over time, this initial skimming plant grew to become a major refinery, and today produces about 6 billion litres of fuel in a year and can process up to 130,000 barrels of Crude Oil per day. This unique business purchases primarily Western Canadian Crude Oil, directly employs more than 1,000 talented women and men, and continues to be an economic engine that fuels Western Canada and Western Canadian agriculture.

Setting up the business as a co-operative was a natural choice, Isnana said, and he encourages others to consider the model when looking for solutions. “I definitely would recommend the co-op model,” he said. From investment to business succession, the business model can be leveraged to increase revenue for independent businesses, improve a community’s investment readiness, and help retain vital infrastructure in rural areas. Plus, the model works best in small market regions and for local, independent businesses up against large competitors. So, it’s a solid option for farmers and businesses in rural and agricultural settings.

FREE TRAINING AND RESOURCES FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPERS Besides the economic benefits, in western Canada the model comes with supports. Business development organization, Co-operatives First, has a wide variety of supports, tools, and courses available. This includes EDAC accredited training specifically designed for economic developers. “Delivered online or in-person, these unique training sessions take place every month and are made available at no charge,” said Kyle White, Governance and Education Lead at Co-operatives First. “And, to keep things practical, the content is based on case studies, which offers opportunities to explore how the model can be applied in situations economic developers are familiar with.” Every rural community is up against some difficult trends that co-ops can help mitigate. Next time someone approaches you with an opportunity or an idea, consider a co-op. It’s a different – and sometimes better – way to do business.

NATION BUILDING But the business model’s impact on the Prairies isn’t isolated to agriculture and oil and gas. Recently, a technical services co-op was formed by First Nations and Tribal Councils in Saskatchewan. “Essentially the co-op provides technical services for housing inspections for First Nation communities,” said Tim Isnana, Executive Director for Indigenous Technical Services Co-op (ITSC).

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Co-operatives First 306-382-4410 info@cooperativesfirst.com CooperativesFirst.com/Creating-Connections/

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FINANCIAL SERVICES Southwest | p. 73 Capital, Central, Calgary | p. 75

Calgary | p. 74

40%

Between 2007 and 2017, Alberta’s financial services sector GDP rose 40 percent, outpacing financial services sector GDP growth in all other provinces. By comparison, GDP in Canada’s financial services sector rose 26 percent over the same period. This map highlights where a few exciting stories of economic innovation in this particular sector of Alberta’s economy are taking place and is not meant to be a representation of the entirety of activity in this sector throughout the province.

Financial Services Employment Growth 2008 - 2018 Percentage Increase British Columbia 21.2 Ontario 18.8 Alberta 15.4 Canada 14.1 Quebec 3.1 05

Sources: Alberta Economic Development and Trade, Statistics Canada

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2020

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FINANCING FARMS OF THE FUTURE

Farmers and financial institutions in southern Alberta are teaming up to capitalize on technological advances BY TRICIA RADISON

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE: Alex Van Herk, owner of Durango Livestock Ltd. (right), consolidated his financial services with Chinook Financial and saved enough to expand his operations, ensuring the future for his family.

to their needs and developing stronger relationships,” says Locken. “Building a network of stakeholders helps not only in the dissemination of information around new technology, but can

PHOTO COURTESY: DURANGO LIVESTOCK/CHINOOK FINANCIAL

ECHNOLOGY HAS TRANSformed farm operations in recent years, and further innovations in robotics, automation and data analysis will underpin what one of Canada’s largest banks is calling a fourth agricultural revolution. In a report from Canada's largest bank, RBC – Farmer 4.0: How the Coming Skills Revolution Can Transform Agriculture – the bank notes that: “Canada could gain $11 billion in annual GDP by 2030 by closing the agriculture labour gap and accelerating investment in technology.” With over 70 percent of Canada’s irrigated land in southern Alberta, this fertile region of the province will play a key role in taking advantage of this opportunity – if resources are available. “As technology transforms so quickly, it’s vitally important that producers stay abreast of the latest trends and available resources,” says Dale Locken, regional business banking manager with Chinook Financial Credit Union in Claresholm – an agricultural town of around 3,700 people, about 110 kilometres south of Calgary. Chinook Financial is a division of Connect First Credit Union, which is Canada’s seventh largest credit union with a network of 42 branches and $5.4 billion in assets under management. Locken and the Claresholm branch of Chinook Financial are working to create another network to ensure farmers get the investment and financing required to support technological advances. The credit union invited members and non-members within the agricultural and commercial community to attend a focus group, discuss the needs of agri-business, and evaluate if there is a need to establish an Ag Resource Centre. “What we heard is that agri-businesses need more support on the ground. They want us visiting their operations, being more responsive

suppliers to support learning and collaboration to expand regional agri-businesses. “It’s important that we’re working together to generate awareness, identify future trends,

“It’s exciting to see community and business partners come together, listen to farmers, implement new initiatives to support those who invest in southwest Alberta, and help them succeed.” – Bev Thornton, executive director of Alberta SouthWest

also lead to the creation of new technology and processes via roundtables and think tanks.” At the same time that the credit union is looking at options, the 16 communities within the Alberta SouthWest Regional Economic Development Alliance have launched an “Energizing Agricultural Transformation” project to bring together community leaders, producers and

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

attract dynamic partners and continue to grow healthy, prosperous communities and businesses,” says Bev Thornton, executive director of Alberta SouthWest. “It’s exciting to see community and business partners come together, listen to farmers, implement new initiatives to support those who invest in southwest Alberta, and help them succeed.” 2020

invest in alberta

CAPITAL CONNECTIONS A new investment forum in central Alberta aims to draw a diverse crowd to BY TRICIA RADISON connect entrepreneurs with investment capital

PHOTO COURTESY: EDGE INVESTMENT FORUM

ED DEER PLAYED HOST TO THE Canadian Finals Rodeo for the first time in 2018, marking the first of a 10-year run for the central Alberta city as the backdrop for the major national competition. The rodeo brings six days of pancake breakfasts, bucking broncos and live concerts. Along with the cowboys and cowgirls, visitors will now also find a group of eager entrepreneurs and start-ups looking for capital to grow their businesses at the Edge Investment Forum. The inaugural Edge Investment Forum event took place in February 2019. A second event took place in conjunction with the Canadian Finals Rodeo in October 2019, and this new investment forum will coincide with the rodeo for the next eight years. “The ultimate objective is to create a drawing platform for an international audience, so we’ve paired it with an activity that is authenti-

invest in alberta

2020

cally Canadian,” explains Pam Steckler, chair of Central Alberta Access Prosperity, a not-forprofit economic development organization focused on promoting growth in central Alberta. In addition to timing the Edge Investment Forum with the Canadian Finals Rodeo, the

During the Edge Investment Forum, entrepreneurs present a seven-minute pitch to an audience that includes the business community, municipal leaders, angel investors and venture capital firms. Pitches come from a variety of industries and sectors.

“The ultimate objective is to create a drawing platform for an international audience, so we’ve paired it with an activity that is authentically Canadian.” – Pam Steckler, chair of Central Alberta Access Prosperity

location in central Alberta provides an opportunity to draw investors from the province’s two largest cities. Red Deer sits along Alberta’s main north-south highway, approximately equal distance from Calgary to the south and Edmonton to the north.

“There’s anything from agriculture or techbased to commercial and retail businesses. Anything that is unique and different and for which the entrepreneurs are looking for their next step,” says Steckler. The Edge Investment Forum provides another setting for entrepreneurs to connect with resources to help take that next step. Both Startup Calgary and Startup Edmonton – not-profit organizations dedicated to growing the tech sector in their respective cities – put on pitch events; meanwhile the Banff Venture Forum has grown to be one of Canada’s biggest financing events since its beginnings in 1997. In addition to generating investment opportunities, the Edge Investment Forum aims to connect entrepreneurs with resources and connect investors with each other to discover what opportunities are emerging in the province. “The Edge is for businesses, entrepreneurs, municipalities and anybody else who is interested, because you never know who is going to be on that stage and what they may have to offer,” says Maureen Easton, manager of business development for Catapult Entrepreneurs, a business incubator and accelerator serving central Alberta.

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AWE-INSPIRING Non-traditional sources of financing are helping women entrepreneurs bring their innovative ideas to market VELYN ACKAH SAW AN opportunity to expand her business. The Calgary-based founder and managing lawyer of Ackah Business Immigration Law needed capital to realize the opportunity, but she wasn’t interested in pursuing traditional financing. Ackah already has an established immigration law practice and noticed more people having concerns about international and cross-border business, understanding Canada’s cannabis pardons and travel to the United States. She had a desire to share accurate information with a wider audience by establishing an online law firm. So, she approached Alberta Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) with her idea. “They were very supportive,” she says. “They could see I had a viable business already, employing mainly women over the last nine years, and they liked my idea of using technology to make immigration law accessible to more people.” Alberta Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to enabling women to build successful businesses. The organization was established in 1995 and provides training, workshops, business advising, and mentorship opportunities. It also connects women with access to capital, including loans of up to $150,000 to women-run businesses in the province. Marcela Mandeville, CEO at AWE, explains that women-run businesses can have unique needs. For example, if they are service-based, obtaining capital to scale up their business can be a challenge. AWE practices relationship-based lending, working closely with people and businesses to help them achieve success. As a result, it’s

PHOTO COURTESY: ACKAH BUSINESS IMMIGRATION LAW

BY TRICIA RADISON

Evelyn Ackah

worked with some entrepreneurs for its entire 20-year existence. Getting financing from AWE can lead to other opportunities. For example, AWE recently hosted a delegation of women from

have contributed to the economy and the community, it’s clear that the businesses we work with will be a good investment.” Ackah is currently working on launching her online business under its own brand. It

“We have a track record of making good investments and managing our loan portfolio very effectively.” – Marcela Mandeville, CEO of Alberta Women Entrepreneurs Germany interested in investing in Alberta. “We have a track record of making good investments and managing our loan portfolio very effectively,” says Mandeville. “When you look at that, the success rates of the businesses; the breadth of the industries, sectors and sizes; and what those businesses

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

will provide accurate legal information to a global audience interested in immigration and cross-border issues. “They’ll have a chance to start their immigration journey the right way with the right information without spending thousands of dollars,” she says. 2020

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ALBERTA INNOVATES

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

INVENTURES2020

Connect with the best and brightest in global innovation

WHEN YOU’RE ON THE CUSP OF

Alberta is a hotbed for innovation and offers tremendous opportunities for investment and venture funding.

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launching a great concept, the currency that matters most is connection. Inventures2020 is a not-to-be missed creative collision where the most ambitious start-ups, entrepreneurs, savvy angel investors and industry tycoons come together to forge relationships, strike deals and engage in thought-provoking conversations that have the potential to change the world. Inventures2020, held June 3–5th 2020 in Calgary, Alberta brings together the biggest ideas from across the globe to tackle some of the greatest opportunities and challenges that we are facing in Alberta, Canada and around the world. This year, Inventures offers ground-breaking insight on leading-edge themes such as; the role of agriculture in feeding an ever-growing global population; the fintech, blockchain and data revolution that is changing the landscape of business; the fragile balance between energy, economy and the environment; and, the future of personal health, on-demand health tracking and enhanced health outcomes. Inventures isn’t your typical conference — it’s the pulse of the innovation community where the unexpected happens. The real action takes place outside of the conference rooms, with hallways becoming the boardrooms where connections are made, and deals are brokered. “Inventures is fast becoming the hotbed for tech stars with breakthrough ideas,” said Alberta Innovates CEO, Laura Kilcrease. “It’s the place to make global connections, meet investors, and to gain first-hand knowledge of the incredible economic potential this province holds.” Inventures 2019 brought together some 4,000 innovators, investors, industry leaders and thought leaders, as well as innovators

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from 32 countries. With more than 220 speakers, 100 plus program tracks and six primary themes, Inventures concentrated advanced thinking, business-focused opportunities and global leadership in some of the most exciting areas of innovation. Inventures2020 will bring bigger ideas and higher energy, offering a one-of-a-kind innovation experience. Alberta is a global leader in artificial intelligence and machine learning, geospatial and autonomous transport, digital agriculture and responsible energy development. Alberta is a hotbed for innovation and offers tremendous opportunities for investment and venture funding. Alberta has more than 1200 active start-ups, 38% female entrepreneurs (triple the national average) and over 4600 information and technology companies. Alberta’s research and innovation system and its technology commercialization support programs make the province an attractive place for companies to accelerate innovations into the global marketplace. Inventures isn’t just for entrepreneurs and innovators. The 2020 program will feature more than 250 leading thinkers from a range of industry sectors and disciplines. Last year’s speakers included local CEOs alongside keynotes such as Temple Grandin, Michele Romanow, and Dr. Daniel Kraft. You can bet the conditions to support deal-making have been put into place. A survey conducted by PwC following the 2019 event revealed that almost one in six participants taking part in Inventures carried out new business activity that resulted or would result in revenues or investments due to their participation in the event. Based on survey findings, PwC estimates that up to $249 million of GDP footprint in Alberta could be facilitated by the business transactions agreed or under negotiation at Inventures. “Inventures is a great magnet to draw leading start-ups to Alberta and showcase the outstanding support that Alberta provides to innovators,” said Kilcrease. “And it also helps local entrepreneurs connect to capital and a global ecosystem of peers.”

For more information contact: inventurescanada.com

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CAlgArY, ALBERTA, CANADA JuNe 3â&#x20AC;&#x201C;5, 2020 020

SHIFTING THE GLOBAL FRONTIER OF INNOVATION Connect with the best and brightest Calgary is the dynamic setting for inventures 2020, a not-to-be-missed event bringing entrepreneurs, startups, investors and thought leaders from around the world together.

Explore fresh insights into: Innovation of Work Agriculture in the Technology Age The Future is AI Healthier Living, Broader Thinking Smart Cities, Vibrant Communities Data in the Digital World

4,000+

250+

100+

Attendees

Speakers

Sessions

Tracks

For more information and to register visit inventurescanada.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

LETHBRIDGE COUNTY

AGRICULTURAL EXCELLENCE and so much more!

LETHBRIDGE COUNTY HAS A long and productive history in agriculture (over $1 billion in annual gross farm receipts), with hardworking and innovative producers contributing to an important worldwide industry. But there is more to our region than agriculture – Lethbridge County has diversified its economic portfolio over time to include agri-food processing, commercial and industrial parks, road/rail/air transportation services, renewable energy and an emerging bioindustrial sector. We’re excited to leverage our strengths to participate in new initiatives such as Canada’s Premier Food Corridor (CPFC) and the Plant Protein Alliance of Alberta (PPAA) projects! WE KNOW HOW TO GROW – GREAT PEOPLE ARE THE KEY Many businesses have found Lethbridge County to be an ideal location to establish themselves, expand their operations and prosper. A business

retention and expansion (BRE) survey of County businesses conducted by MDB Insight in July 2018 found that more than 91% of businesses surveyed were either ‘satisfied’ or ‘very satisfied’ being in Lethbridge County, and more than half plan to expand their operations within the next two years. A young, educated and diverse regional workforce that is constantly enriched by new graduates from the University of Lethbridge and Lethbridge College, and strong partnerships with these post-secondary and research institutions combine to provide county businesses with the elements they need for continued, sustainable success. A high quality of life, reasonable cost of living and strong local communities help provide stability and a true sense of place for both employers and employees. WE’D LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN US! Do you want to plant the seeds for growing your business in a place that is focussed on sustainability,

stability and continued growth and prosperity? Contact us and see how Lethbridge County could be your company’s next home, and perhaps one of the best decisions you make!

For more information contact: Martin Ebel - Economic Development Officer Lethbridge County Toll-free NA: (855) 728-5525 E-Mail: mebel@lethcounty.ca www.lethcounty.ca

G R OW WITH US Over 90% satisfaction among businesses in Lethbridge County*

Contact Martin Ebel Economic Development Officer (855) 728-5525 mebel@lethcounty.ca www.lethcounty.ca

*based on results of the 2018 Business Retention and Expansion Survey. View it at: www.lethcounty.ca/business/economic-development

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2020

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ARTS & TOURISM South Central, Palliser | p. 78 Central, Calgary | p. 84

127,000

Tourism in Alberta supports more than 127,000 jobs across the province, which boasts vibrant cities, diverse and scenic landscapes, and renowned attractions, including five UNESCO World Heritage Sites, more than 480 provincial parks, 18 provincial historic sites, and five national parks.

Alberta Tourism Expenditures 2016 by Visitor Origin - $8.5 billion Alberta – 54% Rest of Canada – 21% United States – 10% Overseas – 15%

Sources: Alberta Culture and Tourism, Alberta Economic Development and Trade, Statistics Canada

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

2020

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BEST OF BOTH

WORLDS

Combining outdoor experiences with the comforts of home is becoming an increasingly popular pastime

BY THERESA TAYLER

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2020

edaalberta.ca investalbertamag.ca

But Writing-on-Stone is not the only provincially run park in the province with a handful of comfort camping sites available. There are at least four parks across central and northern Alberta that are all within 300 kilometres of Edmonton, and another four parks within 350 kilometres of Calgary across central and southern Alberta that offer cozy cabins, yurts or medieval-themed canvas tents. Dinosaur Provincial Park is one of those parks and it sits about 220 kilometres straight east of Calgary. Shauna Deschamps, business operations coordinator for the Dinosaur District, says the demand for the UNESCO World Heritage site’s wall-tent style units is so high, they book up almost

“Instead of coming in for a day visit, people are extending their stay. They are bringing in money to local restaurants, local grocery stores, shopping and other businesses, and they’re looking for other sources of entertainment,” she says. For Jones and his now fiancée, the appeal is being able to leave the city lightly packed, drive up to a ready-made campsite and jump right into their nature activities without needing to buy all the paraphernalia that is required for traditional camping, load a car or RV, and set up a site. They often spend their mornings hiking and then relax back at their site on the patio or around a fire – just like traditional camping. At the end of their

“There is a lot of market room in this space for people to innovate and make money.” – Peter Casurella, executive director of the SouthGrow Regional Initiative completely for the season in February when reservations become accessible online. “It’s very special to see people come from around the world and camp in Dinosaur Provincial Park,” she says. “For many of our guests, it’s the first time they have experienced camping. For those who arrive from parts of the globe where camping is not necessarily part of their culture, it’s a wonderful thing that we can offer them when they visit.” Deschamps adds that glamping also benefits the local economy when the campsites are located near towns.

stay, they simply get back in the car and head home to the city, no dismantling and packing up required. “It reduces the stress of camping a lot. There’s a permanent wood floor, an electrical hookup, raised bed, fire pit and dining room table, flush toilets nearby,” says Jones. “At different times in my life, I’ve had all the gear and tried all sorts of camping; and right now, this is just so nice. We have busy work lives and to be able to just arrive and wind down in nature is what we’re looking for.”

PHOTO COURTESY: TRAVEL ALBERTA

PHOTOS COURTESY: DINOSAUR PROVINCIAL PARK

HRIS JONES KNEW EXACTLY where he would drop to one knee and pop the question to his lady love. The Calgary-based couple has a favourite “glamping” spot on the edge of a pristine meadow in Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park in southern Alberta, where they go to unwind after a busy work week. So, in September 2019, he proposed in front of their luxury outfitted canvas tent. “It’s a beautiful space where we have watched as a family of deer rest during the day,” says Jones. “She said ‘yes,’ by the way.” Glamping – or comfort camping – pairs the rustic charm of camping and the surroundings of Alberta’s vast landscape with glamourous creature-comfort perks that commonly include things such as running water; a raised bed with linens in a canvas tent, yurt, or the like; and a barbeque, mini-fridge and other conveniences that are more luxurious than traditional tenting amenities. “The demand for prairie camping in southern Alberta is rapidly accelerating. We’ve seen a massive spike for summer camping sites, glamping sites, cabin and RV rental sites, or condo-ized sites across the region,” says Peter Casurella, executive director of the SouthGrow Regional Initiative. “There is a lot of market room in this space for people to innovate and make money.” The Jones’ favourite getaway in Writing-onStone Provincial Park is located about 350 kilometres southeast of Calgary near the Alberta-Montana border and is situated among the 26 communities that make up the SouthGrow Regional Initiative.

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

2020

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TOWN OF FORT MACLEOD

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

FORT MACLEOD You Belong Here

SINCE 2014, FORT MACLEOD HAS BEEN

At the crossroads of Alberta Highways 2 and 3, you will find Fort Macleod, poised and ready for business with new infrastructure, new industrial lots and a streamlined development process.

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seriously focused on attracting business. Recently, a forward-looking attitude has enveloped the town. This quaint community continues to improve and maintain the unique look and feel of the town, so residents, visitors and business people will feel welcomed and be comfortable here. The Town of Fort Macleod is positioned at the crossroads of highways 2 and 3, making transportation easy for products or supplies. Those in the transportation business would benefit from locating here. Just south of town new infrastructure services a 160 acres parcel that is for sale and available for development. On the west side of town, a 44-acre parcel is also available and primed for industry. This sits right on highways 2 and 3. New industrial land has recently been serviced (2016), with infrastructure including fibre optic to much of the town. Many companies are expanding or building new structures, knowing the infrastructure servicing them is sound. The water plant, that sits on the Old Man River, has received updates. The historic Territorial Courthouse (1903), is available for purchase. It spreads its grand presence across a large lot, flanked by trees on the east and west. This two and a half story building (~2500 sq. ft.) has been used by the Town of Fort Macleod as their town offices, but has been outgrown. This architectural beauty is set back from the eastbound highway going through town, and takes you back to the stateliness of the turn of the century. Additions and approved modifications are allowed. The Town of Fort Macleod offers business incentives and has a commitment to improve investment readiness. Red tape and delays can hinder forward movement. Streamlining the development process and updating Land Use Bylaws will help those that bring their business to town. The people that live here are hard-working folks.

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The Town of Fort Macleod has seen success in acting as a major film shooting location. The area around is primarily driven by ranching, agriculture and wind farms. Recreational sites are nearby for those that love the outdoors. Kayaking, canoeing and tubing can happen on the Old Man River, or with a short drive you can get to the numerous lakes in the area or go up to the mountains. Ski resorts are within an hour or two â&#x20AC;&#x201C; depending on your preferences. Waterton National Park is within a couple hours drive and those with a hankering for horses can graze their animals in the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s community pastures or you can buy your own acreage or farmland. This small town has two newly renovated schools, a health care centre, organizations of many interests, senior housing, large residential lots and a small-town feel. You will know your neighbours and likely serve with them on one committee or another. Consider the Town of Fort Macleod for setting up your business. You belong here.

For more information and to discuss special incentives contact either: Keli Sandford - Dev. Officer - Town of Fort Macleod k.sandford@fortmacleod.com or Sue Keenan - CAO - Town of Fort Macleod s.keenan@fortmacleod.com Ph: 403-553-4425 | Fax: 403-553-2426 www.fortmacleod.com

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Businesses & Industries

belong

Your business belongs at the crossroads of Highways 2 and 3. Traffic converges at the crossroads of Highways 2 and 3 – two of Alberta’s major thoroughfares – in Fort Macleod. In addition to the advantage of easy transportation, there are other benefits.

future we are already in the planning phase of additional expansions targeting light industry and commercial growth.

New and updated infrastructure includes upgrades to our electrical distribution system, water treatment plant as well as fibre optic networks being available. That makes Fort Macleod a businessready community for both industrial and commercial developments. We are ready for your business and have an open mind for land sales and future developments. A multitude of varying sized lots are available. This includes residential lots as well as agricultural, industrial and commercial areas of town. With a continued eye on the

So whatever your needs, we would love to have you set up shop where the crossroads meet. Call today for more information, and to enquire about current incentives. You belong here.

If you prefer not to build, there are beautiful structures already in place that can be purchased for your business to move into.

For more information visit our website fortmacleod.com/do-business-and-invest-here/development/ or contact Keli Sandford, Town of Fort Macleod at 403-553-4425 or k.sandford@fortmacleod.com

PEAKS TO PRAIRIES

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

AN INNOVATIVE COLLABORATIVE INITIATIVE Peaks to Prairies supports an acceleration toward vehicle electirification

SOUTHERN ALBERTA IS AN ENERGIZING

Peaks to Prairies is an example of the innovation and collaboration that is driving change in southern Alberta, and the region is now connected for electric vehicle (EV) travel.

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place to be. From agri-food revolutions to incredible tourism and renewable energy projects, the region is rapidly growing and seeing investments in a diversity of sectors. It is no surprise, then, to find innovation even in the transportation sector. The region is supporting an acceleration toward vehicle electrification with an innovative collaborative initiative called Peaks to Prairies. In Alberta, electric vehicle (EV) sales grew by 99% between June 2018 and June 2109. And with similar trends in jurisdictions surrounding southern Alberta, the opportunity presented by EVs was apparent, and it was noticed by leadership in the region. And, to achieve that economic benefit, communities and business, visitors, residents and investors needed to be able to charge their EVs while here. In the spirit of innovation and collaboration that defines the region, Alberta SouthWest Regional Alliance in partnership with SouthGrow Regional Initiative, invited communities to explore the unique opportunity together. The region benefits from a thriving tourism industry and boasts some of the best wind resources in the province — resulting in significant investments in renewable energy projects. These strengths, combined with the ever-expanding EV charging networks in both Montana and British Columbia, position southern Alberta to capture a growing ‘EV tourism’ market. Leveraging their collaborative leadership, Alberta SouthWest and SouthGrow confirmed partnerships with the City of Calgary, the City of Lethbridge, the City of Medicine Hat and Medicine Hat College to design an EV charging network that would facilitate the travel of electric vehicles throughout the regions. Maximizing the co-benefits and economic opportunities for the local communities was of utmost importance. As a result, identifying locations that were in close proximity to amenities,

2020

attractions and culturally significant points of interest was a priority of the network’s design. Working with the Community Energy Association to manage the project, the regional partners designed the “Peaks to Prairies Electric Vehicle Network”, a network of twenty charging sites across the region that is currently (so to speak!) the largest deployment of fast charging stations in Alberta. This represents four years of planning, with seed funding from the partners, and an additional $2 million leveraged through funding partnerships with the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, the Government of Canada and the Government of Alberta. Ensuring a reliable, convenient and connected network of charging stations was critical to the implementation of the Peaks to Prairies project. As it is beyond the capacity of small rural communities to own and operate such a network, through a rigorous competitive process, ATCO was identified as the preferred service provider for the deployment and on-going operations and maintenance for a minimum of 10 years. With a commitment to providing the equivalent of 100% renewable energy, sourced from southern Alberta to power the network, driving an EV in the region would also reduce transportation emissions. ATCO partnered with FLO as the infrastructure manufacturer and network operator for the Peaks to Prairies EV Network. FLO’s equipment is designed and manufactured in Quebec and built to endure the harshest of Canada’s weather. The Peaks to Prairies EV Network connects southern Alberta along major highways 1, 2 and 3, as well as 4, 5, 6, 22, 23, 36 and 501, facilitating reliable EV travel throughout the region. Already, the stations are being frequented by residents and visitors alike. The positive economic impacts of the collaboration initiated by Alberta SouthWest and SouthGrow have only just begun. With dedicated partners, innovative approaches, and a commitment to growth, the future is bright in southern Alberta.

For more information contact: www.albertasouthwest.com www.southgrow.com www.atco.com www.flo.com www.communityenergy.bc.ca

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1 1

2 36

LEGEND 36 3

Desination Level 2 Station

5 6

DCFC/Level 2 Stations

501

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2020

edaalberta.ca investalbertamag.ca

RAISING A

GLASS

Craft breweries across Alberta are tapping into a rich heritage to capture a unique economic opportunity

PHOTOS COURTESY: ORIGIN MALTING AND BREWING CO, ORIGIN FARMS

BY THERESA TAYLER

YLE AND MELEAH GEERAERT have a unique origin story. The married couple are both bornand-raised Albertans and come from a long line of barley farmers – with Meleah’s family (Hilton) supplying husk to a variety of breweries across Alberta, the rest of Canada and the U.S. for several years. When it came time for Kyle and Meleah to begin helping with the Hiltons’ family business, Kyle suggested they start using the sought-after barley from Origin Farms to begin brewing their own unique suds. “The Origin farm itself – a fifth-generation farm – is now harvesting solely to supply to breweries. We supply barley to 80 breweries across Alberta and B.C. and the U.S., as well as our own,” says Kyle, adding that Alberta has some of the best malt barley in the world. The Geeraerts opened the doors to Origin Malting and Brewing Co. in 2017. The craft brewery was set up in Strathmore, a town of about 13,000 people that sits along the Trans-Canada Highway just 40 kilometres east of Calgary. Origin Malting and Brewing also opened a tap house in the town and has a wide selection of brews, including lagers, kettle sours, fruit beers, wheat ales and IPAs. While the selection of beer recipes in stores and local pubs has grown significantly in recent years, so has the number of independent craft breweries in Alberta. In 2016, there were only about 50 small brewery licences issued by the province, and today there are more than 125 existing and pending licences, according to the Alberta Small Brewers Association (ASBA). Several factors contributed to opening the spigot

on the amount of beer being brewed in Alberta. In 2013, the province removed the minimum production requirement of 500,000 litres per year, while Alberta Culture and Tourism provided the ASBA with a $60,000 grant to develop the province’s local beer brand – and there’s also the high-quality malt barley that Origin’s Kyle emphasized. Kimberley Worthington, executive director of Central Alberta Economic Partnership Ltd., says there’s a direct correlation between increased tourism in her region – one of the province’s regional

Sometimes international travellers end up doing more than sampling a few Alberta brews. German-born Jochen Fahr moved to Calgary to complete a PhD in biomedical engineering, but turned a home brewing hobby into a legitimate business when he established Brauerei Fahr in 2017. He set up the craft brewery in Turner Valley, a town of about 2,500 people just 60 kilometres southwest of Calgary. As well as focusing on award-winning German-based brews, Fahr has also made it the

“Local and international tourists love to come experience what we have to offer. I think there’s a lot of room for a craft brewery route tour and I don’t see our market getting oversaturated anytime soon.” – Kimberley Worthington, executive director of Central Alberta Economic Partnership

economic development alliances that encompasses 35 communities in central Alberta – and an increased number of craft breweries. “Economically, the influx of breweries across central Alberta ties right into tourism,” Worthington says. “Local and international tourists love to come experience what we have to offer. I think there’s a lot of room for a craft brewery route tour and I don’t see our market getting oversaturated anytime soon.” “Look at what they’re doing in B.C. and places such as Kelowna with the wineries,” she adds. “There are so many wonderful options to choose from, which helps create a lot of traffic to the area.”

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

company’s mission to be environmentally friendly and a community supporter. He is working with a local company to use the brewery’s wastewater, which is high in salt content, on special grass seed that is biochemically designed to thrive on saltwater. Leftover husk goes to local ranchers as cattle feed, and Fahr plans on lining the ceiling of the brewery in solar panels as soon as possible. “I want to create a sustainable community project. I try to think of how I can help Turner Valley thrive and grow economically,” says Fahr. “You have to support people so that they can remain in their hometowns, so that there are industry and jobs.” 2020

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TOWN OF CROSSFIELD

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

CROSSFIELD IS THE ULTIMATE GATEWAY to the Calgary Metropolitan Region set up operations. The region’s total export sales in 2013 amounted to $6.5 billion dollars. Within 30 minutes to 1.5 million people, shovel-ready land, no business tax, one of the lowest utility rates around and access to unbeatable transportation options, Crossfield is the place to start a business. For more information on Economic Development, please contact: Norma Lang at 403-946-5565 Learn more at crossfield.ecdev.org

FOR A PLACE TO CALL HOME

JUST 30 MINUTES NORTH OF CALGARY along both Highway 2A and the Canadian Pacific Railway mainline – and within sight of Highway 2 – Crossfield provides efficient access to all major amenities, infrastructure and trading centres.

With a vibrant heritage, a strong industrial base, outstanding access to transportation links and solid infrastructure, Crossfield’s growth continues to accelerate – come join the excitement.

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FOR BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY Industry and business in Crossfield enjoy superior access to international markets, an urban work force and municipal services at affordable prices – plus a business tax-free environment. Crossfield offers a strategic location on the doorstep of Highway 2) – one of Canada’s busiest travel corridors and part of the CANAMEX trade corridor, North America’s high priority corridor under the national highway systems designation act. The corridor links Alaska through Canada to Mexico, improving the north/south flow of goods. Located in the Calgary region, Crossfield is a 25-minute drive from the Calgary International airport. For market-seeking industries, Crossfield offers an unbeatable Calgary-area location from which to move products around the province via highway, rail or air, including a six-lane major highway between Calgary and Crossfield. The growth corridor between Highway 2 and 2A is ripe with industrial and commercial development potential. Investors can purchase land and build a facility within the Calgary region to exact operational specifications. Between 2013 and 2018, the total number of jobs increased by eight per cent in Crossfield and area, from 42,209 to 45,459. This is higher than rates in the Calgary Metropolitan Region Board area (two per cent) or Alberta (one per cent). Crossfield is eager to do business and has a proven record of sustained expansion. Whatever the industry, it is an excellent place to

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A charming small-town atmosphere awaits. Boasting beautiful mountain vistas and surrounded by vibrant yellow canola fields, newcomers to Crossfield can expect a warm welcome. The town of Crossfield is in close proximity to both Calgary and Airdrie, providing easy access to all of the big city amenities while maintaining quiet country living at its best. New residents can easily find work opportunities and housing choices, free from big-city congestion. Two new residential developments offer a variety of home styles with semi-detached homes starting from approximately $250,000, and single-family homes available from $355,000. A year-round farmers’ market, annual rodeo and demolition derby, 18-hole golf course and ample housing options make Crossfield a great choice. Crossfield has elementary, middle and high schools, and is a short drive away from post-secondary options in Olds and Calgary. Residents enjoy recreational facilities including an arena, curling club, splash park and an extensive parks and pathways system. The Town of Crossfield hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including Twinklefest in December and Community Day in September, which engage the community and bring visitors to town from neighbouring areas. Crossfield: a little gem on the prairie. Open for business.

THIS is EST 1907

Town of Crossfield 1005 Ross Street | Crossfield, Alta. T0M 0S0 crossfieldalberta.com | crossfieldliving.com town@crossfieldalberta.com | 403-946-5565

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Where opportunity meets possibility. If you’re looking for a new place to do business or to call home, welcome to Crossﬁeld.

Town of Crossfield 1005 Ross Street | Crossfield, Alta. T0M 0S0 crossfieldalberta.com | crossfieldliving.com town@crossfieldalberta.com | 403-946-5565

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

TOWN OF OKOTOKS

WHY OKOTOKS STRATEGICALLY LOCATED ALONG the Canadian-Mexican transportation route, Highway 2, and only minutes away from a major urban centre of more than one million people, Okotoks offers an environment where people are able to pursue their entrepreneurial vision with a lifestyle to match. Featuring thoughtful planning and design, a strong local economy and a vibrant civic culture, Okotoks combines urban amenities with the charm and safety of small town life. Our vision is clearly focused on creating a future where environmental practices and sustainability form an integral part of life and work for the community. A complete review and update of the Municipal Development Plan is underway, which will be completed in 2019. This will be accompanied by a complete Land Use Bylaw review that will foster and encourage growth in an environmentally sustainable way.

High speed connectivity, local amenities and strong business support, combined with access to a highly skilled local labour force, provides the ideal combination for a strong entrepreneurial eco-system. We invite you to become part of our innovative, youthful community. QUICK FACTS: • Fibre Optics broadband is available throughout Okotoks • Competitive Utility Pricing • No business tax • Mid-sized urban centre: average age is 34, highly educated workforce • Population: 30,000 INDUSTRIAL LAND: • For industrial or commercial use, Okotoks has approximately 200 acres of development land available for sale, lease or build-to-suit.

TRANSPORTATION: Highways: 2 (Canada-Mexico route); 7 & 22 (to the west coast and Asian markets) Air: Okotoks Air Ranch Airport (private local, fully certified airport), offers 3,100 foot runway. Bus: On-it Commuter Bus Service weekdays between Okotoks and Calgary’s Anderson LRT station. International Airport: under 40 minutes (56KM)

To learn how to build your business in Okotoks contact: 403.938.8052 ecdevokotoks@okotoks.ca

build. innovate. grow. thrive. With a commitment to environmental stewardship, state of the art connectivity, competitive land costs and a lifestyle that employees find irresistible, there is every reason for your business dream to happen in Okotoks.

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TRANSPORTATION & LOGISTICS Capital | p. 106 Peace Country,

Mackenzie | p. 110

$34.8 billion The Government of Alberta’s $34.8-billion infrastructure program in the Jobs Plan is helping stimulate the economy, keep people working and address the province’s infrastructure deficit.

Manufacturing Sales 2018 Value (in $ billions) $76.4 billion Refined Petroleum $19.1 Food & Beverage $14.9 Chemical Products $14.2 Fabricated & Primary Metals $6.9 Forest Products $6.6 Machinery $6.3 Non-Metallic Construction Materials $2.1 Plastics & Rubber $1.6 Electronic & Electrical Products $1.8 Other Manufacturing $2.7 Sources: Alberta Economic Development and Trade, Statistics Canada

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

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ILLUSTRATION: RAYMOND REID

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TAXES NOT

INCLUDED

Port Alberta is positioning itself as a major transportation hub and using its Foreign Trade Zone status to attract import-export operations

BY JUSTIN BELL ENJAMIN FRANKLIN IS OFTEN attributed with the saying, “nothing is certain except death and taxes.” Of course, those words from one of the founding fathers of the United States were written in the 18th century, hundreds of years before Port Alberta was granted Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) status – where taxes don’t apply. The FTZ designation is a federal program that provides companies with tax and tariff exemptions or deferrals when importing raw materials, components and finished goods. As well, components that are imported and then assembled are eligible to be sold into the world market as Canadian-made products. “All of these things enable us to create a very strong narrative around a business value proposition for our region,” says Malcolm Bruce, CEO of Edmonton Global. “That’s compelling to folks whose supply chains form a key part of their competitive advantage.” Edmonton Global, the Edmonton metropolitan area’s new regional economic development organization, is helping to revitalize Port Alberta and bring the economic interests of the region to international markets. Port Alberta is an inland port concept that has been active for years, but is now being given new life. Inland ports, such as Port Alberta, aren’t a single place or location within the region. Instead, the concept is both a marketing tool and a series of government programs put in place to make importing and exporting simpler and more efficient. Edmonton Global is bringing a more regional view and emphasizing key capabilities of the capital region and surrounding communities to drive

international trade and investment. Whether it’s the Industrial Heartland near Fort Saskatchewan, manufacturing in Nisku or agricultural producers in Parkland County, Port Alberta can be used as a focal point for the whole region and help bring goods to market. “What (Port Alberta) allows us to do is create a story around our integrated supply chain and how it comes together,” says Bruce. “An inland port is a concept that allows land-locked organizations a simple way to describe their integrated and interconnected supply chains. It becomes a compelling narrative to use in markets around the world.”

rate communications with the Edmonton Regional Airports Authority. “When you think about Port Alberta, we are not just trading goods from Alberta, but we are connecting goods coast to coast.” The Edmonton International Airport has seen a number of upgrades over the past few years, from a major trucking facility owned by Rosenau Transport to Shell upgrading their fueling facilities. It all combines to create fast, efficient, and reliable ways to move goods to and from almost anywhere in the world. “It really is all of those small components,” says Bednard. “It is more than the sum of the parts.

“When you think about Port Alberta, we are not just trading goods from Alberta, but we are connecting goods coast to coast.” – Traci Bednard, vice-president of digital and corporate communications with the Edmonton Regional Airports Authority

Tax and duty deferrals are only one aspect of the concept. Transportation infrastructure also plays a role in telling the Port Alberta story. Bringing together rail, road and air transport, as well as import bonding throughout the region, means businesses have the opportunity to bring in goods in one mode, add value to them, and then ship them out through another. It also leads to seamless logistics connections with international markets. “Because of Canada’s size, Edmonton is well situated to be a cargo distribution point in Canada, connecting our European and Asian markets,” says Traci Bednard, vice-president of digital and corpo-

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

We had the vision of Port Alberta years ago. Now we have a number of those structural pieces in place.” With those structural pieces in place, the Port Alberta partners are looking toward expansion and attracting business to the Edmonton region, leveraging the transportation infrastructure and FTZ designation to create an active import-export hub. “We have made inroads into building European cargo services and Asia cargo services,” says Bednard. “Our next step is working with our local producers and adapting their products to take advantage of the air pipelines.” 2020

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TOWN OF STRATHMORE

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

WELCOME TO STRATHMORE A hidden gem with incredible business opportunities! ACTIVE STRATHMORE LIVING We are an active community that has an amazing array of recreational opportunities, including a pool and the new Strathmore Motor Products Sport Centre field house, which features year-round indoor sport courts and a running track. Residents can enjoy activities such as hockey, golf, ringette, baseball, soccer, lacrosse, volleyball, disc golf, rugby, go karting, paintball, horseback riding, bull riding and more. Our community hub is Kinsmen Park and Lake, which offers year-round activities like family skating in the winter and our very popular Farmer’s Market and Splash Park in the summer. Strathmore boasts more than 40 hectares of parks and over 20 kilometres of interconnected pathways, making us a complete and walkable community.

CLOSE TO THE ACTION Any closer and you’d have to saddle up. The Strathmore Stampede is the third largest rodeo in Alberta and includes wellknown competitors. We should mention that you do not have to go to Spain to see or participate in the Running of the Bulls – we have it right here in Strathmore. There are many unique events throughout the year in our town.

MADE IN STRATHMORE — OPPORTUNITY AWAITS! THE TOWN OF STRATHMORE, just shy of 14,000 residents, is a complete community that provides an incredible range of amenities, pathways, schools, housing options, civic amenities and a hospital. Daily necessities and recreational options are all within a five-minute drive. Inviting public spaces, boutiques and coffee shops in a unique, vibrant and walkable downtown setting adjacent to a central park and lake are at your doorstep.

Being one of the most accessible TARGET MARKET, ACCESS & and connected PROXIMITY With an immediate trading area of approximately 45,000, areas in Alberta Strathmore is ideally located along the Trans-Canada Highway, makes Strathmore counting on average 25,000 vehicles passing by Strathmore daily. the perfect The town also has the added benefit of being close to the 1.4 location. million residents who call Calgary home. Strathmore is under 40

minutes east of Downtown Calgary and approximately 35 minutes to the International Airport. Being one of the most accessible and connected areas in Alberta makes Strathmore the perfect location for a variety of industries, including but not limited to manufacturing, light industry, retail, food and beverage and agricultural related industries. Strathmore is a regional service centre and employment hub. Those who work in Strathmore pride themselves on their amazing work/life balance! Whether you work in Calgary and drive against traffic every day, or work locally and can walk or bike to work, less time in the car means more time with the people who matter!

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Our supportive business community works together to elevate an eclectic mix of “Made in Strathmore” offerings. Origin Malting and Brewing Company (a true field-to-glass family-owned business) Cian’s Mustard, The Canadian Buttertart Factory, Waterford Farms Shrimp and Food campus, Sweetsmith Candy, Choice Growers, GS Conveyor, Laser-Fab and Solarkrafte (a 40.5 mega-watt solar farm) all call Strathmore home and are well-known in our region, province and beyond. Our streamlined municipal processes make it quick and easy for businesses to operate. Land availability and affordable real estate, location and accessibility, plus tax rates and the low cost of doing business, make Strathmore extremely competitive and the best place to be. We have many success stories. Could yours be the next?

Visit strathmore.ecdev.org or strathmore.ca for more info or contact ecdev@strathmore.ca

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Quality of Life Land availability Business Opportunities Think of us for your future business needs and enjoyment of “Quality of Life”

If you’re planning on starting or expanding a business in a convenient, accessible, cost-effective location, then Strathmore is the place to be! Strathmore is located along Highway 1— in close proximity to the City of Calgary and the International Airport. In addition of being a regional service centre and employment hub, Strathmore is a complete community with an incredible range of amenities for your family and immense resources for businesses. The town offers a variety of schools

including post-secondary, a hospital, shopping and dining experiences which include an award-winning brewery, beautiful parks and recreation facilities, as well as an Entrepreneurship Centre. The Town of Strathmore’s Economic Development will assist you with your business set up, expansion and relocation, site selection and connect you to all available resources. We’ve streamlined our municipal processes to make it quick and easy for you! When it comes to quality of life for your family and a supporting business environment, things are definitely looking up in Strathmore!

Contact us Today at ecdev@strathmore.ca or check out our websites for more info and video showcases: strathmore.ecdev.org and strathmore.ca

ILLUSTRATION: RAYMOND REID

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DUE NORTH Northern Alberta communities push for infrastructure development to transport value-added products out of the region BY JUSTIN BELL IMOTHY HAY IS ONE OF THE most popular hay feeds for horses and cattle in Japan. The Asian country is Canada’s biggest export market for the crop – in 2016, more than 118,000 tonnes of timothy hay were sent across the Pacific Ocean to supplement Japan’s local supply. Carolyn Kolebaba wants that number to be higher. Kolebaba is the Reeve of Northern Sunrise County – a rural municipality with a population of approximately 2,500 people that sits adjacent to the Town of Peace River about 480 kilometres north and west of Edmonton – and is one of a number of people who view transportation as the key to expanding industry in the northwest corner of the province. “There are a lot of untapped opportunities in the region,” says Kolebaba. “We could do a lot of value-add with better transportation. We have asked for an east-west connector to Prince Rupert. That would be our connection to the west coast.” Kolebaba notes that initiatives such as the Generating for Seven Generations Group feasibility study on a rail connection from northern Alberta to Alaska are the types of infrastructure that would put goods at tidewater and allow for greater access to Asian markets. Increasing transportation links into and out of the province’s northwest region is a key goal of the Northern Transportation Advocacy Bureau (NTAB). The NTAB is a partnership between the Peace Region Economic Development Alliance (PREDA) and the Regional Economic Development Initiative for Northwest Alberta (REDI), two organizations dedicated to enhancing economic growth in the northwest region of Alberta and made up of more than 30 communities, including Northern Sunrise County. The focus of this committee is to highlight the need for transportation infrastructure in Alberta’s northwest to

ensure the region is competitive and efficiently access the global markets. “The biggest challenge for the region is more than growing more and different products, but getting more value-add for our product,” says Dan Dibbelt, general manager for PREDA and REDI. Agricultural production and land are certainly not among those challenges. In fact, with three percent of Canada’s farmland located in northwest Alberta and nearly 5,000 farms in the region, with a 60-40 split between cropland and pasture, it’s a huge and diverse industry. It’s also an industry with huge potential. A recent report from PREDA, Northwest Alberta Agricultural Commodities, collected export data for the vast industry, examining what is shipped out of the country, how and to where. From beef, pork and chicken to canola, wheat, alfalfa and creeping red fescue (a type of grass used in sod), the Peace Region has a huge breadth of agricultural production. While the United States is an important trade partner and a major importer of Canadian agricultural products, the report identifies some alternative regions for market growth. This could include sending canola seed to Japan and the Middle East or the importance of selling organic oats and timothy hay into Asia. While the report identifies some opportunities to explore, the bigger focus for PREDA is identifying export opportunities and using it to make the case for increased transportation infrastructure in the province’s northwest. “The purpose of this report is so that we can work on value-add and transportation infrastructure,” says Mary Joan Aylward, research and operations staff with PREDA and the author of the report. It could be the link needed to help northwest Alberta realize its full economic potential.

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

ENERGIZING SOUTHERN ALBERTA TRANSPORTATION

After more than two years of development, the “Peaks to Prairies” electric vehicle charging network went live with the first few fast charging stations being energized in 2019. Once complete, the $2 million project will include 20 fast charging installations across southern Alberta, creating a “backbone” of charging stations that will enhance tourism and economic development, providing a network of connectivity for electric vehicle travel along nine different highways across southern Alberta. Peaks to Prairies was a collaborative effort from the SouthWest Regional Alliance, an economic development region that includes 16 rural communities in the province’s southwest; the SouthGrow Regional Initiative, a neighbouring economic region that comprises 26 communities across south central Alberta; and the cities of Lethbridge, Calgary and Medicine Hat. This project is powered by Calgarybased ATCOenergy – a corporation with a diverse portfolio of businesses that includes electricity generation and distribution – and will represent a true clean energy network, as the charging stations will be powered by renewable energy.

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RESIDENTS

FAMILY INCOME

ST. ALBERT

MILLION

1.3

66,082

MARKET AREA POPULATION

67.1

$130,600

cultivate business success $90

AVERAGE

2700 Number of businesses that call st. Albert home (2019)

Billion

pERCENTAGE OF RESIDENTS (AGE 25+) WITh POST-SECONDARY EDUCATION

market area ANNUAL GDP

Learn more about St. Albert and how we can grow your business from the ground up at cultivatebusiness.ca. cultivatebusiness.ca

Economic Developers Alberta is the provinceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading professional organization for economic developers. Our Commitment? To serve our members with the expertise they need to help them cultivate a prosperous, diverse and sustainable economic base. What Do We Do? For more than 45 years we have been Albertaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading economic development network. We advance the economic development profession by providing resources, professional development and networking opportunities. We are a nonprofit organization governed by a volunteer board of directors. Why Join? Become an EDA member and get the inside scoop on our professional development and networking opportunities. They are designed to help you advance your economic development practice and support Alberta communities in fostering sustainable economic prosperity.

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Visit our website at www.edaalberta.ca to learn more. Follow us on social media

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AEROSPACE & DEFENCE Northeast, Battle River Capital | p.98 Calgary | p.102 Capital Calgary | p.103

Palliser

$1.3 billion

Annual revenues from Albertaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Aerospace and Defence industry are over $1.3 billion, with 40 percent of production destined to export markets.

This map highlights where a few exciting stories of economic innovation in this particular sector of Albertaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy are taking place and is not meant to be a representation of the entirety of activity in this sector throughout the province.

6,000

Alberta is home to 170 aerospace and aviation companies, and employs more than 6,000 highly skilled workers. The province is globally recognized for its expertise in niche areas, such as robotics and unmanned vehicle systems, defence electronics, and space science and geomatics. Source: Government of Alberta

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OPERATION

LOCAL INVESTMENT Military bases stationed in Alberta provide an economic boost to local communities

HE FOUR MILITARY BASES IN Alberta collectively generate over $10 million in local procurement and services annually, and more opportunities could be on the way. “The bases definitely contribute to the growth of our communities, by doing everything from buying bottled water to building new facilities and upgrading infrastructure,” says Carley Herbert, economic development officer for the Town of Wainright, which is home to Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Wainwright. Wainwright is a town approximately 200 kilometres east of Edmonton and it’s not the only community in the province benefiting from being home to a CFB. Cold Lake, a city in northeast Alberta that’s situated less than 20 kilometres from the Saskatchewan border, is home to CFB Cold Lake. In the southeast corner of the province on the outskirts of Medicine Hat sits CFB Suffield, and CFB Edmonton makes its home in Sturgeon County, which is the municipal district adjacent to the northern city limits of Alberta’s capital city. Playing host to these CFBs has been a huge driver of the local economies – regions that combine to include more than 1.1 million people – and each region could be in line for greater investment. “That’s because the federal government requires any aerospace or defence-related company working with the Canadian military – such as Lockheed Martin or L3 Mas, to name a couple – to engage the local private sector business community,” says Bob Bezpalko, executive director of the Northeast Alberta Information HUB (Alberta HUB), a regional economic alliance made up of 38 communities, including Cold Lake.

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BY ROBIN BRUNET

Development of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) – commonly known as drones – is an area primed for growth. It’s estimated that 30 percent of the UAV companies in Canada have their headquarters in Alberta. In addition to the actual UAVs, related software and spe-

ics and scientific research, plus manufacturing, maintenance, and repair are all part of the profile too – and are areas that could tap into regional talent pools. “While a lot of opportunities in the high-tech sector, research, robotics realm exist for Alber-

“The bases definitely contribute to the growth of our communities, by doing everything from buying bottled water to building new facilities and upgrading infrastructure.” – Carley Herbert, economic development officer for the Town of Wainright

cialized services are expected to dominate military spending growth over the next decade. UAVs are only a part of Canada’s aerospace and defence profile that will become increasingly evident in Alberta’s four CFB bases. Bezpalko notes that robotics, defence electronics, geomat-

ta’s urban areas, the resource base and investment opportunities in outlying areas are considerable too,” says Bezpalko. “We’re uniquely positioned to take advantage of them, and to facilitate and expand economic diversification in the region.”

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STETTLER REGIONAL BOARD OF TRADE

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

WE’RE GOOD WITH OUR HANDS

The Stettler workforce is complemented with skilled workers and tradespeople ready to get to tradespeople and workers. With Red Deer College THE PEOPLE ARE WHAT MAKE Stettler stand out. Our community is complemented only 60 minutes away and Olds College 90 with passionate go-getters ready to get to work. Be it minutes, we’re centrally located for apprentices and workers to update their education while on the job or volunteering after-hours, the residents maintaining their home and work in Stettler. The are here to make things happen. Our community Stettler Learning Centre values taking care of one another continues to work with employers and ensuring a prosperous and to bring education opportunities sustainable future for generations to Invest and be a part that can help them fill gaps in come. It is not uncommon to see of a community you their own workforce and enhance business owners, managers and and your staff are their employees’ skills. families collectively work towards proud to call home. Stettler has trading access updating equipment in the Stettler across the province and Hospital and Care Centre, building worldwide. Just 1 hour east of the new playgrounds, hosting large Red Deer Airport, 1 hour, 45 events like the Alberta Scotties Tournament of Hearts, or banding together to help a family who has minutes from the Edmonton International Airport, and 2 hours from the Calgary International fallen on tough times. We get the big picture. Airport, Stettler is situated at the intersection of Our workforce is comprised of many skilled

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

highways 12 and 56. Land has been identified for the creation of new development. We encourage you to visit our website to view opportunities and the properties available. With access to continued education, technology and great logistics; make strides in a community where people make the difference and you’re proud to call home.

Stacey Benjamin Executive Director 403-742-3181 s.benjamin@stettlerboardoftradecom www.stettlerboardoftrade.com/invest

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TOWN OF VERMILION

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

NEW IDEAS FOR BUSINESS

THE TOWN OF VERMILION PLACES A

With new developments in industrial, highway commercial and residential areas, the Town of Vermilion is experiencing an increase in business investment.

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high priority on economic development. The town boasts the best of both worlds – big city amenities with small-town friendliness and security. Strategically located along the picturesque Vermilion River at the main intersection of Yellowhead Highway 16 and Buffalo Trail Highway 41, Vermilion is a hub within the Alberta Eastern Trade Corridor. Two hours east of Edmonton and the Edmonton International Airport, and only 30 minutes from Lloydminster, Vermilion is recognized as a strong and effective service centre. The town’s local economy is based primarily on two key sectors – agriculture and the oil and gas industry. Agriculture is the foundation on which the Vermilion region was built. The industry includes grain, oil seeds, beef, hogs, specialized livestock and dairy products, and the region plays host to numerous trade shows, seminars and sales related to the agriculture industry. On the crossroads of Highway 16 and 41, Vermilion is strategically located between the oil fields in Wainwright, Lloydminster, Elk Point and Cold Lake. Located within the Alberta HUB region, Vermilion benefits and has access to the Cold Lake oil sands area, as well as a major part of the Athabasca oil sands – Vermilion is experiencing economic growth. Vermilion offers quality parks including the Vermilion Provincial Park, recreational and cultural facilities and programs complimented by well-designed neighborhoods and crescents, along with a mix of commercial and industrial businesses. The town also offers outstanding medical services. Residents say that the quality of life in Vermilion is second to none, thanks to great amenities and services, growth and development,

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established businesses, a good variety of new businesses, lots of parks and green spaces, various activities, a good economy, good health care and a very family-oriented community. Vermilion is a great place to purchase or build a home – the town has everything from mature neighbourhoods with majestic tree-lined boulevards to brand new subdivisions bustling with family activity. There are also single family dwellings, condominiums and seniors-focused housing complexes. Our newest residential subdivision will feature housing for various markets, great builders and wonderful communities. Whether you move to raise a family or to retire in a beautiful, safe and friendly community, Vermilion is a great place to find your dream home. Its residents are outstanding citizens donating their time, talents and finances to local boards, cultural groups, committees and sports teams. Vermilion is so active it is hard not to get involved. There are plenty of opportunities to shop locally in Vermilion, where familiar faces greet customers within an array of businesses including pharmacies, clothing, furniture, hardware and lumber, agricultural dealerships, oilfield companies, boutiques and restaurants. With new developments in industrial, highway commercial and residential areas, the Town of Vermilion is ready for business.

For more information contact: Mary Lee Prior, Economic Development 5021 – 49 Avenue, Vermilion, AB T9X 1X1 Phone: 780-581-2419 Fax: 780-853-4910 Email: economic@vermilion.ca Twitter: @NewIdeas4Living Facebook: /TownofVermilion Instagram: ExploreVermilion

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UP IN THE AIR Canadian government taps Alberta software firm to help improve weather forecasts BY ROBIN BRUNET LYHT AEROSPACE SOLUTIONS IS set to help the Canadian government predict the future. Or, more specifically, the Calgarybased software provider to the aerospace sector is set to help Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) create more accurate weather forecasts. FLYHT’s enterprise-based solutions to deliver real-time, flight-deck, satellite connectivity for tracking, monitoring, and streaming of operational, maintenance and weather data have been used by airlines, leasing companies and original equipment manufacturers around the globe for more than 20 years. Recently, ECCC contracted FLYHT to use its innovative software and collect upper air meteorological data from Canadian commercial aircraft for quality testing purposes. “Because commercial aircraft fly all over – both vertically through the atmosphere and long distances at altitudes where rain, snow, and other events occur – this type of data gathering is superior, and the better the data and the greater the sampling area of that data, the more accurate Environment Canada’s weather forecasts will be,” says Jeff Rex, vice-president of sales and marketing with FLYHT. Typically, ECCC uses several inputs to build its weather models. One of the more common inputs comes from weather balloons, but the practice is expensive and, by nature, limited to the areas from which the balloons are launched. The project with FLYHT is attempting to overcome that challenge. The first phase of the $166,000 project was undertaken in the summer of 2019 and saw specialized aircraft meteorological data relay (AMDAR) software tied into FLYHT’s Automated Flight Information Reporting System (AFIRS) satellite communication system. The AMDAR data is collected from sensors such as air speed indicators and temperature probes, which are part of the aircraft when it is manufactured. FLYHT’s AFIRS system accessed

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information from the aircraft data bus and prepared specially encoded AMDAR messages for transmission to the ECCC-Meteorological Service of Canada.

(TAMDAR) – would be to use sensors installed on aircraft to capture additional data such as relative humidity, icing, and turbulence. “FLYHT’s unique ability to capture, process,

“This could supplement the overall weather balloon program, increase forecast accuracy, and reduce overall program costs in the long term.” – Thomas Schmutz, CEO of FLYHT

“The data is currently being analyzed and assessed, and Environment Canada will likely make a decision by year-end how many aircraft will be involved in this project moving forward and for how long,” Rex says. Additional service options for the AMDAR data – and potentially introduction of FLYHT’s Airborne Meteorological Data Reporting

and transmit weather data in real-time should be very useful, and we hope to ultimately augment our services with the TAMDAR reporting system,” noted Thomas Schmutz, CEO of FLYHT. “This could supplement the overall weather balloon program, increase forecast accuracy, and reduce overall program costs in the long term.”

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GROUND CONTROL Edmonton International Airport is quickly becoming a top destination for training and research BY ROBIN BRUNET plan) and future economic development efforts. “We are proud to have a partnership with Clear Flight Solutions that allows us to actually translate innovation into value,” said Tim Bibby,

place for research and innovation. The training centre was established by a consortium that included EIA and Edmonton Economic Development Corp., along with aviation companies

“We’re like the last piece of the puzzle that makes AATC the destination for transportation training.” – Chris Nash, president of the Alberta Motor Transport Association

vice-president of corporate and business development at Aerium, when the project was announced in 2017. The AATC opened its doors in 2015 and is a training hub dedicated to improving flight safety through synthetic flight training, as well as a

PHOTO COURTESY: AERIUM ANALYTICS

ERIUM ANALYTICS IS PUSHing Alberta’s unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) industry to new heights and is taking advantage of the airspace above Alberta’s capital city to do it. The Calgary-based UAV services provider booked time with the Alberta Aerospace and Technology Centre (AATC) at the Edmonton International Airport (EIA) to focus on the growth and development of UAV technologies in the province. For one research project, Aerium has partnered with Netherlands-based Clear Flight Solutions to help EIA safely integrate UAV services into its daily operations. Specifically, Aerium and Clear Flight Solutions provide mapping and inspections to support the airport’s maintenance programs (including its wildlife management

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

Canadian North and Canadian Helicopters. In addition to establishing the AATC as a place for simulator training and research, the consortium also hoped to diversify Edmonton’s economy and create a knowledge-based cluster of economic activity. It didn’t take long for that mission to take off and draw other organizations to the AATC. In 2017, construction began on a state-of-theart 20,000-square-foot educational facility for the Alberta Motor Transport Association. The centre is now fully operational and includes an adjacent five-acre test-driving track, as well as a driving simulator for training that enables AMTA to conduct complete training for commercial drivers, all in one location. “Our simulator provides group training for a wide variety of transportation, from driving a school bus to aggregate hauling,” says AMTA president Chris Nash. “We’re currently working on a program for cement haulers, and many more programs will be considered in the future.” The AMTA facility is the third component of the AATC: Calgary-based airline Canadian North operates a 737 training simulator in the airport’s Cargo Village and HNZ Topflight operates a helicopter training simulator in the main terminal building. “We’re like the last piece of the puzzle that makes AATC the destination for transportation training,” says Nash. “This not only benefits Albertans, but the transportation sector as a whole.” 2020

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

TOWN OF ROCKY MOUNTAIN HOUSE

ROCKY MOUNTAIN HOUSE A strong community working together THE TOWN OF ROCKY MOUNTAIN HOUSE fosters growth and development. We continue to promote our region as a great place to invest and live. Oil and Gas, Agriculture, Forestry and Tourism are our economic drivers, with an increased demand for Tourism. Rocky Mountain House is in West Central Alberta on the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and is home to one of Canada’s National Historic Parks. We are “Where Adventure Begins” with a rich culture and natural beauty adjacent to the North Saskatchewan River along with some wonderful lakes within a short distance from town. In 2019, 58 new business licenses were issued to new and home-based businesses. We aim to help businesses thrive through a new joint economic development initiative with our

neighbours Clearwater County. Visit www.strongertogether.ecdev.org to see what our region has to offer to developers. The Town of Rocky Mountain House is committed to collaborating with and engaging residents and business-owners about town initiatives and strives to lead the province in communicating with its community. The Town of Rocky Mountain House endeavours to provide excellent amenities and services to its residents and businesses. The new Christenson Sports and Wellness Center, along with the newly renovated Credit Union Co-op Aquatic Center will be enjoyed for decades and the Town continues to invest in municipal infrastructure, outdoor recreation facilities and trails. Rocky Mountain House hosted the 1st Alberta Masters Games, this Sports Tourism

initiate was very successful. Other notable amenities include our award-winning Main Street and the Rocky Mountain House Airport.

For more information contact: Jeff Hartling Economic Development Officer Town@rockymtnhouse.com www.rockymtnhouse.com 403 847 5260

A DESTINATION OF CHOICE, TO INVEST, PLAY, STAY AND GROW. town@rockymtnhouse.com | www.rockymtnhouse.com | 403-847-5260 110

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FORESTRY Peace Country | p. 90 Capital, North Central, Peace Country | p. 94

$6.6billion

In 2018, shipments of Albertaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s forest products reached a record $6.6 billion, and exports were $4.1 billion. Forest products include pulp, paper and wood products such as lumber and oriented strand board.

2.2billion m

Alberta's commercially productive timber land base of 26.1 million hectares covers 40 percent of Alberta's total area, and includes in excess of 2.2 billion cubic metres of growing stock. Sources: Alberta Economic Development and Trade

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FOREST STEWARDS: For every tree that is harvested, Mercer plants an average of two new conifers. Over the last 20 years, this has added up to nearly 2 billion new trees in Albertaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s boreal forest.

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PUTTING DOWN

ROOTS

An international mill operator invested in Alberta’s forestry sector with an eye to grow operations and the communities they work in

PHOTOS COURTESY: MERCER PEACE RIVER PULP

BY MAGGIE BREMSKI HE FORESTRY INDUSTRY IN Alberta is vast. Scattered across 70 communities, it employs 40,000 skilled workers whose “offices” cover approximately 38 million hectares – 60 percent of the province’s total land area – an area slightly larger than the size of Germany. It’s an area that caught the attention of Mercer International. In early 2019, the American company – which operates pulp mills and sawmills in Germany, Australia and Canada – entered the Alberta forestry industry by acquiring Daishowa-Marubeni International’s Peace River Pulp Division. As a result of this transaction, Mercer International’s annual production capacity for pulp was set to increase by approximately 41 percent to 2.2 million air dry metric tons (ADMTs). As an added bonus, steam generated from processing lumber into pulp at the newly christened Mercer Peace River Ltd. facility produces clean power at 65 megawatts per hour, which is enough to help the mill be self-sufficient for its electricity and export power back to the grid. Along with the pulp mill near Peace River, which is a town of more than 6,500 people in the treed landscape of northwest Alberta and approximately 500 kilometres northwest of Edmonton, the acquisition included the rights to two Forest Management Areas (FMAs) that cover 2.9 million hectares of forest. “Northern Alberta offers many advantages for companies,” says Dan Dibbelt, executive director of the Peace Region Economic Development Alliance (PREDA), which is a partnership of 47 communities

and organizations guiding economic development in Alberta’s northwest region. “Our colder climate allows for trees of strong, quality wood with long fibres,” says Dibbelt. “And the region’s terrain provides easy access to transportation pipelines.” Managing such a vast landscape in a manner that facilitates sustainability and growth is no small feat, and maintaining them is key. These forests

Not only has the mill been recognized for using sustainably harvested wood with numerous certifications, they’ve done so without compromising quality, as seen with their ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certifications, and by giving back to the community. Mercer International has continued a partnership agreement with the Woodland Cree First Nation to provide competitively priced, ecological-

“Collaborating with the community and Indigenous stakeholders is simply part of the way we operate.” – Lindsay Grundy-Kish, human resources manager at Mercer Peace River Pulp capture carbon, maintain the watershed and are home to thousands of wildlife species. In Alberta, any company that is granted stewardship of an FMA is also responsible for its regeneration. Forestry companies like Mercer are obligated to replace each tree, but often go beyond just replanting what was there. In fact, for every tree that is harvested, an average of two new conifers are planted. Over the last 20 years, this has added up to nearly 2 billion new trees in Alberta’s boreal forest. Now, less than a year into the purchase of the mill that first opened in 1990, Mercer International continues to elevate the standard. “From the start, Mercer’s focus has been to continue supporting the community and the environment, and also to optimize and innovate our operations,” says Lindsay Grundy-Kish, human resources manager at Mercer Peace River Pulp.

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

ly-based harvesting, chipping and delivery services for Peace River. The mill operator has also partnered with local high schools and post-secondary institutions to support a dual-credit power engineering program that connects students with industry, and provides the skills and training they need for a career upon graduation. Mercer International’s operational success and commitment to community serves as an example of how partnerships can work to the benefit of both the economy and the environment – a regeneration mechanism for forests and for the industry for years to come. “It’s not just about business. We live and work in this community and want to see it thrive,” says Grundy-Kish. “Collaborating with the community and Indigenous stakeholders is simply part of the way we operate.” 2020

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CITY OF SPRUCE GROVE

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

ROADMAP FOR REDEVELOPMENT SIGNS OF SUCCESS

THE CITY OF SPRUCE GROVE AND

The CCARP is intended to provide the framework for identifying redevelopment parcels and sites into a modern contemporary design and feel, with a comfort level that exudes elements of pedestrian-friendly place-making with active community spaces.

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local business owners have taken the next step towards City Centre revitalization by creating a plan for redevelopment! The City Centre Area Redevelopment Plan (CCARP), created through a partnership involving the City and the City Centre Business Association, was presented in spring 2019 to help inform decision-makers and guide future investment. In addition to a major transformation to McLeod Avenue, a re-envisioned Columbus Park and creating four distinct precincts within the City Centre, the CCARP outlines the following objectives: • Rehabilitate aging infrastructure, including water lines, sidewalks, traffic controls and roadways; • Enhance street-front vibrancy; • Amend the Land Use Bylaw to encourage redevelopment and revitalization; • Increase residential densities in the city core by introducing new housing options; and • Create a city core that better reflects the ambitions of a growing urban centre. Focused on enhancing the City Centre from King Street to Calahoo Road and from First Avenue to King Street Mall, the CCARP addresses key infrastructure enhancements, design standards, and redevelopment opportunities. The CCARP is intended to provide the framework for identifying redevelopment parcels and sites into a modern contemporary design and feel, with a comfort level that exudes elements of pedestrian-friendly place-making with active community spaces.

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The City of Spruce Grove works with various groups within the community to ensure that the City Centre has a wide array of activities and events taking place. Year-round programming is really designed to be the start of a more in-depth process to re-energize the City Centre as a gathering place, a focal point for the community, and a place where businesses want to locate. Aside from kick-starting the programming aspect, we know that confidence is building when we see redevelopment projects taking place in our City Centre core. For example, the new Main Street Law LLP building just celebrated the grand opening of their new location. This redevelopment attracted both Creekside Massage Therapy and Power’s Medical Aesthetics Inc. to relocate their businesses to this site. These adjacent businesses are of particular importance because including Main Street Law LLP, the image represents three businesses that chose to relocate and expand operations within the City Centre zone. The City Centre will be a place where people of all ages come to shop, dine, work, live, socialize and participate in a variety of community, arts and cultural experiences. It is transforming into a welcoming, family-friendly City Centre brimming with year-round activity, events, shopping, dining and inviting green, open and public spaces with revitalized buildings and enhanced storefronts in a walkable environment. A high quality city core better reflects the ambitions and status of a rapidly growing mid-sized urban centre. Spruce Grove is forward thinking in its approach to economic development, reflecting both the needs of its citizens and its business community and a desire for a sustainable approach to growth and development. The quality of life that Spruce Grove offers its citizens distinguishes it as a community of choice for residents, business and new investment. Spruce Grove recognizes the need to support City Centre revitalization efforts as a vital component of future economic growth, as well as, building an identity for the community. Spruce Grove is proud to support its vibrant business community and looks forward to welcoming both new and continued growth within the City Centre!

For more information contact: Dave Walker, Manager Economic & Business Development Phone: 780-962-7608 investsprucegrove.ca

edaalberta.ca investalbertamag.ca

Time to

SPRUCE IT UP!

CITY CENTR

BUSINESS IMPR

MORE FOR THE CORE... The City of Spruce Grove and local business owners have taken the next step towards City Centre revitalization by creating a plan for redevelopment! • Rehabilitate aging infrastructure, including water lines, sidewalks, traffic controls and roadways

• Increase residential densities in the city core by introducing new housing options

• Enhance street front vibrancy

• Create a city core that better reflects the ambitions of a growing urban centre

• Amend the Land Use Bylaw to encourage redevelopment and revitalization CONTACT:

DAVE WALKER Manager Economic & Business Development

780.962.7608

@SpruceGrove_EcD @InvestSpruceGrove

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CLEARING THE AIR PHOTO COURTESY: NORTHERN ALBERTA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

A research project aims to turn pulp mill waste into big business BY THERESA TAYLER

GROUP OF INNOVATIVE scientists and engineers at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) want to clear the air of that rotten-egg-smelling gas from industrial sites across the province. Paolo Mussone, a chemical engineer and the Applied Bio/Nanotechnology Industrial Research chair at NAIT, and his team at the Edmonton-based post-secondary institution might just have cracked the code as to how to remove the gas safely, while also making use of one of Alberta’s pulp mill by-products. About 60,000 tonnes of fly ash produced as a by-product of pulp mills ends up in Alberta landfills annually and Mussone’s research team has found a way to turn this material into a potentially low-cost, environmentally safe solution for removing noxious hydrogen sulphide – a common by-product at natural gas wellheads, water treatment plants and pulp mills themselves – from the air. “The mills are very good about disposing of it properly and finding ways to safely redistribute it to the land. But there’s a limit to how much you can apply back to the forest because it does change the pH of the soil,” Mussone says. “Landfill use is running out … so (the mills) need to look at what to do with this stuff, and that’s where we come in.” NAIT prides itself as a hands-on, technology-based education and applied research institu-

tion that supports the productivity and prosperity of Alberta. Mussone’s research project has resulted in a technology that’s designed to transform fly ash into tiny pellets that can absorb and

site. We are not shipping the ash great distances, but it’s still filling up our landfills. And in the greater scheme of things, it’s unlikely that the province will approve many more landfills,” says

“I haven’t seen anything like it before. It’s a cool project that’s unique to Alberta.” – Gordon Giles, business development manager at Alberta Pacific Forest Industries filter stinky hydrogen sulphide from the atmosphere. The fly ash pellets that are being developed at NAIT are 10 times more effective at absorbing hydrogen sulphide than the activated carbon filters currently used by industrial operations. “Ash is relatively non-toxic and non-invasive environmentally,” says Gordon Giles, business development manager at Alberta Pacific Forest Industries (ALPAC). “But anytime you don’t have to contribute waste, that’s a good thing.” ALPAC is based in Boyle – a town of approximately 845 people that sits a little more than 160 kilometres north of Edmonton – and operates Canada’s newest, and North America’s largest, single-line bleached kraft pulp mill. The company produces nearly 650,000 air dried metric tonnes of elemental-chlorine free pulp annually and is seeking new ways to use by-products of the pulping process to develop new products. “In our case, we do have our own landfill on

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

Giles, adding that using the ash to supply this service is another opportunity for the Alberta pulp industry to diversify off of pulp production in general. ALPAC is just one of the forestry sector companies that has stepped in to help fund the research project led by Mussone. Mercer International in Peace River and International Paper in Grande Prairie are also co-funding the project, while natural gas producer Encana and Alberta Innovates round out the financial support. Giles says the benefit to industry across the province comes from both cost savings and environmental impact, and notes that the work being done at NAIT is ground-breaking. “I haven’t seen anything like it before. It’s a cool project that’s unique to Alberta,” he says. “The research and development show a lot of potentials, and we’re happy to be part of helping it to come to fruition.” 2020

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PARKLAND COUNTY

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

PARKLAND COUNTY Open For Business

“THERE IS NO QUESTION THAT

Parkland County has a wealth of options to offer prospective investors

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Parkland County is open for business,” explains Robert Fernandez, Director, Economic Diversification. Fernandez joined Parkland County in summer of 2019 and brings with him extensive national and international experience in both the public and private sectors. Now, he is pleased to bring that knowledge to the fast-growing, progressive, Parkland County, a rural municipality located immediately west of the City of Edmonton. “My first impression with this organization is very positive,” he says from his view in this new role. “The teams in the planning and engineering departments are aligned and motivated, and clearly understand the importance of growing and diversifying our economic base for the benefit of all citizens in the region. Because of this exemplary service and open for business attitude that is shared across all of administration, Parkland County is known to attract investors and entrepreneurs from all of North America.” Parkland County has a wealth of options to offer prospective investors, including the Acheson Industrial Area, which is uniquely positioned on a major transportation corridor with major highways and active rail connectivity. There is major opportunity in the agricultural sectors, as well as heavy industrial and logistics with both serviced and raw land availabilities. “Parkland County continues to evolve with the ever-changing business community, as proven by the solution-based changes to our land use bylaw. While looking through the lens of innovation and open-mindedness, we address challenges and opportunities we face while staying focused on increasing the well-being of Parkland

2020

County economically, socially and environmentally. In doing so, we have become very business-centric in our approach to how we work with all businesses and community partners,” Fernandez says. Plans are in place to launch a major business attraction initiative in 2020. Investment attraction requires intentional and active outreach and the development of trusting relationships. “Many jurisdictions have developable and serviced land in one shape or another. Those are table stakes. The real difference to investors and decision-makers comes from the knowledge to be working with committed and entrepreneurial officials who are aligned in the mission to see the county grow, develop and expand.” The initiative will support Parkland County’s key sectors of food and agriculture, AgTech, manufacturing, energy and technology. “Another key element of our go-forward strategy is BRE – Business Retention and Expansion,” he adds. “BRE will help existing businesses grow, which is critical to the County’s priorities. We have many established and long-standing businesses in Parkland County. They have operated successfully for many years through the booming and strong Alberta economy. Now, some of them are looking to expand, diversify, export, partner or sell. The county is often in an ideal position to broker and network among industry partners and investors and takes an active role in this field. “We are here to help existing companies to take full advantage of the supports and information that exist in the ecosystem to compete beyond Alberta, Canada and even globally.”

Robert Fernandez can be reached at Robert.fernandez@parkland.com or Twitter @RobRegion Learn more about this dynamic region by visiting www.parklandcounty.com.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

CITY OF CAMROSE

ALBERTA’S HOME FOR AGRI-BUSINESS CAMROSE IS A CITY WITH agriculture at its roots and is surrounded by some of the most productive farmland in the country. It is a great time for agricultural manufacturing investment, with federal and provincial governments committed to harnessing the potential of Canadian crops through funding and research, and with emerging industry and business partnership opportunities. Located in the heart of the agricultural lands that feed this thriving Alberta industry, the City of Camrose is pushing to attract new, value-added industries — such as agri-processing and manufacturing businesses — to invest and develop here. The opportunities are plentiful. Being centred in a region with over 962 farms,

620,000 acres of cropland, and $342 million in gross farm receipts means that Camrose is a hub for the agriculture industry, especially in agri-business support and agri-processing. As the importance of the agriculture sector grows, so does the opportunity for businesses to capitalize on the City’s access to inputs and markets, and a community and labour pool that is already knowledgeable and competent in this sector. Investors in this sector have access to that qualified and skilled labour pool with 49% of residents having a post-secondary certificate, diploma or degree. The University of Alberta Augustana Campus offers degree programs in the sciences, technology and management, and the NAIT poly-technical campus is only an hour away.

With competitive land, construction, and tax costs, as well as an efficient development and building permit process, Camrose has made it easy for investors to enter the agri-business and manufacturing industry.

CITY OF

2019 For more information contact: Patricia MacQuarrie Economic Development Officer (780) 878-8273 pmacquarrie@camrose.ca www.camrose.ca

ANNUAL REPORT

CONTACT

Industry is thriving in Camrose. Prime industrial lots are available!

Economic Development I City of Camrose

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(780) 878-8273

From 1 to 160 acres: contact us to see where your

www.camrose.ca

business can thrive in Camrose.

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MEMBERS ALLARICE ABRAHAM Economic Development Director Frog Lake First Nation General Delivery Frog Lake, AB T0A 1M0 p: 780-943-3737 ext.117 e: allarice.quinney@froglake.ca GEORGE ADDAI Montana Cree Nation Box 186 Maskwacis, AB T0C 1N0 OMOBOLANLE AKPAN Buyer Customer Support Tophatter Inc. Dennis Otiotio Estate, R.K Wodu Avenue, Opolo Yenagoa, Bayelsa 560214 p: 806-223-3468 e: akpan.omobolanle@gmail.com RODERICK ALEXIS Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation Box 7 Glenevis, AB T0E 0X0 p: 780-977-7581 e: wica-wazhi@hotmail.com JON ALLAN Economic Development Officer Town of Sundre 717 Main Avenue West, Box 420 Sundre, AB T0M 1X0 p: 403-638-3551, ext. 111 f: 403-638-2100 e: jon.a@sundre.com www.sundre.com DAWNA ALLARD Manager, Central Region Alberta Economic Development, Trade and Tourism 201, 4920 - 51 St Red Deer, AB T4N 6K8 p: 403-340-5302 f: 403-340-5231 e: dawna.allard@gov.ab.ca DIANNE ALLEN Manager, Planning & Economic Development Town of Bon Accord Box 779 Bon Accord, AB T0A 0K0 p: 780-921-3550 e: dallen@bonaccord.ca MEHDI AMOUI Chief Technology Officer Localintel #501, 237-8 Ave SE Calgary, AB T2G 5C3 p: 403-401-4656 e: mehdi@localintel.co JOHN ANDERSEN Manager of Marketing & Economic Development Thorhild County P.O. Box 10, 801 - 1 St Thorhild, AB T0A 3J0 p: 780-398-2828 e: john.andersen@thorhildcounty.com SACHA ANDERSON Marketing & C.E.D. Coordinator Community Futures Crowsnest Pass Box 818 Blairmore, AB T0K 0E0 p: 403-562-8858 e: sanderson@albertacf.com LEE ANDERSON Product Manager Localintel #501, 237-8 Ave SE Calgary, AB T2G 5C3 p: 403-888-0035 e: lee@localintel.co

JOSH ANDERSON Coordinator, Good Life Institute Town of Vermilion 5022 - 49 Ave Vermilion, AB T9X 1X2 e: goodlife@vermilion.ca MICHAEL ANSARA Account Manager Export Development Canada Ottawa, ON e: mansara@edc.ca ALLISON ARBIC FortisAlberta Inc. 100 Chippewa Road Sherwood Park, AB e: Allison.Arbic@fortisalberta.com MAGGIE ARMSTRONG Past President EDA 54 Thorndale Close Airdrie, AB T4A 2C1 p: 403-948-4471 e: maggiearmstrong@shaw.ca HOLLY ATJECOUTAY Team Lead Indigenous Services Business Link 500-10150 100 St NW Edmonton, AB T5J 0P6 e: holly@businesslink.ca SANDRA BADRY Economic Development Officer Red Deer County 38106 Rge Rd 275 Red Deer County, AB T4S 2L9 p: 403-357-2395 f: 403-357-2395 e: sbadry@rdcounty.ca www.growrdcounty.ca SARAH BARCELO Repsol Oil & Gas Canada Suite 2000, 888 - 3 St SW Calgary, AB T2P 5C5 e: sbarcelo@repsol.com GREG BARR Councillor Town of Vermilion 5027 - 49 Ave Vermilion, AB T9X 1X7 e: gbarr@vermilion.ca RICK BASTOW Regional Economic Development Specialist Alberta Economic Development, Trade and Tourism 10155 - 102 St Edmonton, AB T5J 4L6 p: 780-644-9822 e: rick.bastow@gov.ab.ca CURTIS BAUER City of St. Albert 29 Sir Winston Churchill Ave St. Albert, AB T8N 0G3 p: 780-459-1631 e: cbauer@stalbert.ca MARK BAXTER President Outlook Market Research & Consulting Ltd. 1455 Toshack Road West St. Paul, MB R4A 8A6 p: 204-229-8190 e: mark@outlookmarketresearch.com www.outlookmarketresearch.com READE BEAUDOIN Economic Development Officer City of Fort Saskatchewan 10005 - 102 Street Fort Saskatchewan, AB T8L2C5 p: 780-912-2167 e: rbeaudoin@fortsask.ca www.investfortsask.ca

STACEY BENJAMIN Executive Director Stettler Regional Board of Trade & Community Development 6606 50 Ave Stettler, AB T0C 2L2 p: 403-742-3181 f: 403-742-3123 e: s.benjamin@stettlerboardoftrade.com www.stettlerboardoftrade.com ADAM BENTLEY Land Use Planner Alberta Economic Development, Trade and Tourism 10155 - 102 St, 6th Floor Edmonton, AB T5J 4L6 p: 780-644-4515 e: adam.bentley@gov.ab.ca SHANE BESTON Sunchild First Nation Box 747 Rocky Mountain House, AB T4T 1A5 p: 403-989-3740 ext 2172 e: shanebeston@outlook.com BOB BEZPALKO Executive Director Regional Economic Development Northeast Alberta Information HUB 5015 - 49 Ave St. Paul, AB T0A 3A4 p: 780-645-1155 e: bobbezpalko@albertahub.com www.albertahub.com HEATHER BISHOP Economic Development Officer Cold Lake First Nations P.O. Box 1769 Cold Lake, AB T9M 1P4 p: 780-815-0932 f: 780-594-3577 e: heather.bishop@clfns.com PAUL BLAIS Executive Vice-President MDB Insight 993 Princess Street, Suite 201 Kingston, ON K7L 1H3 p: 855-367-3535 x 241 f: 416-367-2932 e: pblais@mdbinsight.com www.mdbinsight.com SEAN BLEWETT Manager Community Futures Chinook 5324 - 48 Ave Taber, AB T1G1S2 p: 403-388-2923 e: sblewett@albertacf.com www.chinook.albertacf.com HUGH BODMER Past President EDA 6102 - 46 St Olds, AB T4H 1M5 p: 403-556-3006 f: 403-556-3664 e: hugh@hughbodmer.com SUE BOHAICHUK CEO AUMA Alberta Municipal Place, 300 8616-51 Ave Edmonton, AB T6E 6E6 p: 780-433-4431 e: sbohaichuk@auma.ca www.auma.ca MATTHEW BOSCARIOL GM Economic Development & Planning Brazeau County Box 77, 7401 Twp Rd. 494 Drayton Valley, AB T7A 1R1 p: 780-542-2667 e: matthew.boscariol@gmail.com www.brazeau.ab.ca/

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DIANNA COOK Manager, Proposals and Project Development Beaver Lake Cree Nation P.O. Box 960 Lac La Biche, AB T0A 2Co p: 780-623-4549, Ext. 1019 f: 780-623-4523 e: d.cook@blcn.ca beaverlakecreenation.ca

JENNY BRUNS EDO County of Barrhead 5306 - 49 Street Barrhead, AB T7N 1N5 p: 780-674-3331 e: jbruns@countybarrhead.ab.ca ELAN BUAN Senior Consultant Schollie Research & Consulting 4819C - 48 Avenue Red Deer, AB T4N 1Z9 p: 403-346-9849 e: elan@schollie.com www.schollie.com

CYRIL COOPER Principal Invest Cooper Consultants P.O. Box 27005 Gardiners Kingston, ON K7M 8W5 p: 613-888-0108 e: investcooper@outlook.com

JACQUELINE BUCHANAN Economic Development Officer Town of Three Hills P.O. Box 610 Three Hills, AB T0M 2A0 p: 403-443-5822 f: 403-443-2616 e: jbuchanan@threehills.ca www.threehills.ca

MATTHEW CORNALL Technology Development Advisor Alberta Innovates Room 2915-100, 100 College Blvd. Red Deer, AB T4N 5H5 p: 403-342-3475 e: matthewd.cornall@albertainnovates.ca www.albertainnovates.ca KIM COSTA Municipal World 42860 Sparta Line Union, ON N0L 2L0 e: kim@municipalworld.com

ROBERT BUCKLE Tourism/Economic Development Change Collaborative 501, 8728 Gateway Boulevard Edmonton, AB T6E 6K3 p: 780-893-6371 e: rbrtbuckle@gmail.com

ERIN CRANE Director, Investment Attraction Economic Development Lethbridge 308 Stafford Drive South Lethbridge, AB T1J 2L1 p: 403-331-0022 f: 403-331-0202 e: erin@chooselethbridge.ca www.chooselethbridge.ca

RICK BURDEN FortisAlberta Inc. 100 Chippewa Road Sherwood Park, AB e: Rick.Burden@fortisalberta.com TAMMY BURKE Councillor Town of Rocky Mountain House Box 1509, 5116 - 50th Avenue Rocky Mountain House, AB T4T 1B2 e: councillorburke@gmail.com

TANYA CROFT FortisAlberta Inc. 100 Chippewa Road Sherwood Park, AB e: Tanya.Croft@fortisalberta.com

VIVIAN CALIO-WILLIER Economic Development/HRD Director Sucker Creek First Nation Box 65 Enilda, AB T0G 0W0 p: 780-523-0442 e: economicdev@scfn.ca

KAMIE CURRIE Manager, North West Region Alberta Economic Development, Trade and Tourism 3rd floor, 10320-99 Street Grande Prairie, AB T8V 6J4 p: 780-296-4986 e: kamie.currie@gov.ab.ca http://communityeconomicdevelopment. alberta.ca/

VINCENT CAMPBELL FortisAlberta Inc. 100 Chippewa Road Sherwood Park, AB e: Vincent.Campbell@fortisalberta.com

LINDSAY DANILLER Director Community Initiatives and Development REACH Edmonton Edmonton, AB e: lindsay.daniller@reachedmonton.ca

PETER CASURELLA Manager SouthGrow Regional Initiative P.O. Box 27068 Lethbridge, AB T1K6Z8 p: 403-394-0615 e: peter.casurella@southgrow.com

LARRY DAVIDSON Town Manager Town of Redwater 4924 - 47 St, Box 397 Redwater, AB T0A 2W0 p: 780-942-3519 e: cao@redwater.ca

SARA CHAMBERLAIN Economic Development Officer Airdrie Economic Development 400 Main Street SE Airdrie, AB T4B 3C3 p: 403-948-8800 ext 8455 f: 403-948-6567 e: sara.chamberlain@airdrie.ca www.airdrienow.ca

TREVOR DAVISON Managing Principal O2 Planning + Design 510, 255 - 17 Ave SW Calgary, AB T2S 2T8 p: 403-228-1336 f: 403-228-1320 e: trevor.davison@o2design.com www.o2design.com

LISA CHRISTENSEN Business Centre Manager Business Development Bank of Canada Airdrie, AB p: 403-292-6834 e: lisa.christensen@bdc.ca

JODI DAWSON Manager, Economic Development Town of High River 309B Macleod Tr SW Town of High River, AB T1V 1Z5 p: 403-603-3431 e: jdawson@highriver.ca

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MEMBERS TARA DE MUNNIK Small Business & Tourism Specialist Strathcona County 2001 Sherwood Drive Sherwood Park, AB T8A 3W7 p: 780-416-6737 e: tara.demunnik@strathcona.ca Strathcona.ca

MIKE ERICKSON Economic Development Officer City of Fort Saskatchewan 10005 - 102 Street Fort Saskatchewan, AB T8L 2C5 p: 780-992-6278 e: merickson@fortsask.ca www.fortsask.ca

TODD DETTLING FortisAlberta Inc. 100 Chippewa Road Sherwood Park, AB e: Todd.Dettling@fortisalberta.com

LINDA ERICKSON Regional Manager Alberta Economic Development, Trade and Tourism 105, 200 - 5 Ave South Lethbridge, AB T1J 4L1 p: 403-393-2614 f: 403-381-5741 e: linda.erickson@gov.ab.ca www.southgrow.com

WANDA DIAKOW Economic Development Officer Special Area No. 4 Box 220 Consort, AB T0C1B0 p: 403-577-3523 f: 403-577-2446 e: wanda.diakow@specialareas.ab.ca www.specialareas.ab.ca DAN DIBBELT Executive Director Peace Region Economic Development Alliance 10128 95 Avenue Grande Prairie, AB T8V 0L4 p: 780-527-6232 f: 780-628-0771 e: dandibbelt@hotmail.com EIBLIS DOHERTY Student Edmonton, AB e: eiblisd@gmail.com GARY DUFFETT Economic Development Officer Town of Provost Box 449 Provost, AB T0B 3S0 p: 780-753-2261 f: 780-753-6889 e: edo@townofprovost.ca townofprovost.ca MAUREEN EASTON Business Development Manager Catapult Entrepreneurs #120 5009 50 Avenue Red Deer, AB T4N 4B2 p: 587-818-6050 ext 7004 e: maureen.easton@catapultentrepreneurs.ca MARTIN EBEL Economic Development Officer Lethbridge County #100, 905 - 4 Avenue South Lethbridge, AB T1J 4E4 p: 403-317-6052 f: 403-328-5602 e: mebel@lethcounty.ca www.lethcounty.ca SUZANNE EBELHER Partner Intellidig, People Intelligence Calgary, AB p: 403-988-4121 e: sebelher@intellidig.com JODIE ECKERT CED Coordinator Community Futures Centre West 3209, 101 Sunset Drive Cochrane, AB T4C 0W7 p: 403-464-5734 e: jeckert@albertacf.com http://centrewest.albertacf.com/ COURT ELLINGSON Vice President Research and Strategy Calgary Economic Development 731 - 1 St SE Calgary, AB T2G 2G9 p: 403-221-7892 f: 403-221-7828 e: cellingson@calgaryeconomicdevelopment. com

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MICHELE EVANS Assistant Deputy Minister Alberta Economic Development, Trade and Tourism 10155-102 Street NW, 5th Floor Edmonton, AB T5J 4L6 p: 780-644-7175 e: michele.evans@gov.ab.ca MARIE EVERTS Events, Marketing & Economic Development Officer Town of Pincher Creek Box 159 Pincher Creek, AB T0K 1W0 p: 403-627-3156 f: 403-627-4784 e: economic@pinchercreek.ca www.pinchercreek.ca DAVID FAIRBANKS Plains Midstream Canada 1400, 607-8 Ave SW Calgary, AB T2P 0A7 p: 587-233-7624 e: david.fairbanks@ plainsmidstream.com YOYIN FAMILUSI Team Lead Business Facilitators Business Link 500-10150 100 St NW Edmonton, AB T5J 0P6 p: 403-710-2759 e: yoyin@businesslink.ca www.businesslink.ca DAWN FEDORVICH Economic Development Officer City of St. Albert 29 Sir Winston Churchill Ave St. Albert, AB T8N 0G3 p: 780-459-1743 e: dfedorvich@stalbert.ca JULIA FIELDING Economic Development and Communications Officer Town of Drumheller 224 Centre Street Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y4 p: 403-823-1320 e: jfielding@dinosaurvalley.com www.dinosaurvalley.com JEFF FINKLE President & CEO IEDC Suite 900, 735 - 15 St NW Washington, DC 20005 p: 202-223-7800 f: 292-223-4745 e: jfinkle@iedconline.org www.iedconline.org

CARRIE FISCHER Okotoks 58 Cimarron Way Okotoks, AB T1S1M8 p: 403-370-2726 e: carriefischer21@gmail.com BRE FITZPATRICK Economic Development Officer City of Red Deer 1, 5000 51 Avenue Red Deer, AB T4N 4H5 p: 403-406-8807 e: bre.fitzpatrick@reddeer.ca

SHAUN GREEN Business Development SG Consulting 4411 - 41 Avenue Smoky Lake, AB T0A3C0 p: 780-271-1111 e: sgconsultingbiz@gmail.com www.smokylakeregion.ca

KEVIN GIRARD FortisAlberta Inc. 100 Chippewa Road Sherwood Park, AB e: Kevin.Girard@fortisalberta.com

ANGELA GROENEVELD Economic Development Manager Town of Okotoks 5 Elizabeth Street, PO Box 20, Stn. Main Okotoks, AB T1S 1K1 p: 403-938-8052 e: agroeneveld@okotoks.ca

JENNIFER FOSSEN Marketing and Communications Advisor Wild Rose Co-operative Association Suite 900, 735 - 15 St NW Camrose, AB T4V 2R8 p: 780-679-7516 e: j.fossen@wildrosecoop.ca

JOHN R. GIROUX Economic Development Officer Driftpile Cree Nation Box 30 Driftpile, AB T0G 0V0 p: 780-536-7202 e: ecdev@dpcn.ca

STUART FULLARTON Manager of Economic Development & Communications Town of Innisfail 4943 53 St Innisfail, AB T4G 1A1 p: 403-227-3376 f: 403-227-4045 e: stuart.fullarton@innisfail.ca www.innisfail.ca

BRIAN GLAVIN Manager, Economic Development & Land City of Grande Prairie 10205 98 St Grande Prairie, AB T8V 6V3 p: 780-538-0475 e: bglavin@cityofgp.com investgrandeprairie.ca

GERRY GABINET Director Strathcona County 2001 Sherwood Drive Sherwood Park, AB T8A 3W7 p: 780-464-8257 f: 780-464-8444 e: gerald.gabinet@strathcona.ca MARK GALLANT Manager of Economic Development Leduc County 2nd floor, 1101 - 5 Street Nisku, AB T9E 2X3 p: 780-770-9278 e: mark@leduc-county.com www.leduc-county.com/ PENNY GARDINER CEO EDAC 1100 South Service Rd, Suite 205 Stoney Creek, ON L8E 0C5 p: 289-649-1771 e: gardiner@edac.ca www.edac.ca DAVIN GEGOLICK Planning & Development Officer County of Minburn No. 27 Box 550 Vegreville, AB T9C 1R6 p: 780-632-2082 f: 780-632-6096 e: dgegolick@minburncounty.ab.ca minburncounty.ab.ca WENDY GERBRANDT Community Economic Development Coordinator Community Futures Wild Rose 101, 331 - 3 Ave Strathmore, AB T1P 1K2 p: 403-934-8888 e: wendy@cfwildrose.ca ROB GIBB Repsol Oil & Gas Canada Suite 2000, 888 - 3 St SW Calgary, AB T2P 5C5 e: rgibb@repsol.com NATALIE GIBSON President InnoVisions & Associates #115, 203 - 304 Main St Airdrie, AB T4B 3C3 p: 403-948-2110 e: natalie@innovisionsandassociates.com www.innovisionsandassociates.com

2020

PETER GINGRICH Managing Director eSolutionsGroup Ltd. 179 Colonnade Road, Suite 400 Ottawa, ON K2E 7J4 p: 613-219-7067 e: pgingrich@esolutionsgroup.ca www.esolutionsgroup.ca

JOAN GOLDHAWK Past President EDA 439 50 Ave SW Calgary, AB T2S 1H4 p: 403-389-6392 e: joan.goldhawk@gmail.com VICTOR GOODMAN Independant Camrose, AB e: victorbgoodman@gmail.com KARLA GOULD Economic Development Specialist The City of Spruce Grove 315 Jespersen Avenue Spruce Grove, AB T7X 3E8 p: 780-962-7634 ext 293 e: kgould@sprucegrove.org CATHY GOULET President Killick Leadershp Group 5528 - 43 St, P.O. Box 405 Lamont, AB T0B 2R0 p: 780-618-4967 e: cathy.goulet@killickleadership.com www.killickleadership.com CARLEY GRAHAM Economic Development Officer City of Leduc 1 Alexandra Park Leduc, AB T9E 4C4 p: 780-980-1555 e: cgraham@leduc.ca LORI-JO GRAHAM Program Lead - Senior Development Officer Alberta Agriculture and Forestry 2nd Floor, 5030 - 50 Street Olds, AB T4H 1S1 p: 403-556-4244 f: 403-556-7545 e: lori-jo.graham@gov.ab.ca www.agriculture.alberta.ca/bio-industrial JANICE GRANT Administrative Assistant Economic Developers Alberta Suite 127, #406 917 - 85 St SW Calgary, AB T3H 5Z9 p: 1-866-671-8182 e: janice@edaalberta.ca www.edaalberta.ca

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SHELLEY GROLLMUSS Vice President, Industry Development Travel Alberta 400, 1601 - 9 Avenue SE Calgary, AB T2G 0H4 p: 403-648-1014 e: shelley.grollmuss@travelalberta.com www.industry.travelalberta.com DEIDRE HACKMAN Owner Permit Experts Inc. 10250 - 176 street Edmonton, AB T5S 1L2 p: 855-737-6489 e: info@permitexperts.ca permitexperts.ca LEANN HACKMAN-CARTY Chief Executive Officer Economic Developers Alberta Suite 127, #406 917 - 85 St SW Calgary, AB T3H 5Z9 p: 403-214-0224 f: 403-214-0224 e: leann@edaalberta.ca www.edaalberta.ca DEBBIE HAGMAN Community Development Officer Alberta Economic Development, Trade and Tourism Box 1209 Mayerthorpe, AB T0E 1N0 p: 780-554-0725 f: 780-968-7009 e: debbie.hagman@gov.ab.ca www.culture.alberta.ca DEANA HALEY Vice President, Business Retention & Expansion Calgary Economic Development 731 - 1 Street SEE Calgary, AB T2G 2G9 p: 403-221-7888 f: 403-221-7828 e: dhaley@calgaryeconomicdevelopment.com www.calgaryeconomicdevelopment.com ANN HALL Economic Development Officer Town of Redwater P.O. Box 397 Redwater, AB T0A 2W0 p: 780-942-3519 ext. 330 e: ecdev@redwater.ca www.redwater.ca THOMAS HANSEN Director of Administrative & Strategic Services Town of Strathmore 680 Westchester Road Strathmore, AB T1P 1J1 p: 403-361-1202 e: thomas.hansenyyc@gmail.com www.strathmore.ca

MEMBERS JENNIFER HARTIGH Economic Development Officer Town of Blackfalds Box 220, 5018 Waghorn St. Blackfalds, AB T0M 0J0 p: 403-885-6246 f: 403-885-4610 e: jhartigh@blackfalds.com www.blackfalds.com STEVE HARTLEY FortisAlberta Inc. 100 Chippewa Road Sherwood Park, AB e: Steve.Hartley@fortisalberta.com JEFF HARTLING Economic Development Officer Town of Rocky Mountain House Box 1509, 5116 - 50 Avenue Rocky Mountain House, AB T4T 1B2 p: 403-847-5260 f: 403-845-1835 e: jhartling@rockymtnhouse.com www.rockymtnhouse.com MALCOLM HARVEY Past President EDA Cobble Hill, BC e: mehassociates@shaw.ca RACHAEL HEMMONS Tourism and Economic Development Officer Athabasca County 3602 48 Avenue Athabasca, AB T9S 1M8 p: 780-675-2273 f: 780-675-5512 e: rachaelhemmons@yahoo.com www.athabascacounty.com CARLEY HERBERT Economic Development Officer Town of Wainwright 1018-2 Avenue Wainwright, AB T9W 1R1 p: 780-842-3381 f: 780-842-2898 e: cherbert@wainwright.ca www.wainwright.ca CHRIS HESELTINE Assistant Deputy Minister Alberta Economic Development, Trade and Tourism 6th Floor, 10155-102 St Edmonton, AB T5J 4L6 p: 780-643-1997 f: 780-422-1759 e: chris.heseltine@gov.ab.ca CORINA HOLLINGWORTH Executive Director, Planning and Development Services Enoch Cree Nation Box 29 Enoch, AB T7X 3Y3 p: 780-481-1418 ext. 114 e: corina.hollingworth@enochnation.ca www.enochnation.ca KEN HOLMES Business Centre Manager BDC 4900 - 50 St, Suite 200 Red Deer, AB T4N 1X7 p: 403-340-4209 f: 403-340-4243 e: ken.holmes@bdc.ca LARRY HORNCASTLE, Ec.D. Strategy Builder Keystone Strategies Inc. 109 Keystone Crescent Leduc, AB T9E 0J4 p: 780-217-5995 e: larry@keystonestrategies.ca www.keystonestrategies.ca

YOUR TIME IS NOW RHONDA HOUGH Economic Development Officer Town of Whitecourt 5004 - 52 Ave, Box 509 Whitecourt, AB T7S 1N6 p: 780-778-2273 e: rhondahough@whitecourt.ca www.whitecourt.ca

DIANE JENKINSON Marketing and Communications Manager Municipal District of Bonnyville 4905-50 Ave, Bag 1010 Bonnyville, AB T9N 2J7 p: 780-826-3171 f: 780-826-3775 e: djenkinson@md.bonnyville.ab.ca

LISA HOULE Manager, Calgary Region; Regional Economic Development Services Alberta Economic Development, Trade and Tourism 3rd flr, 639 - 5 Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2P 0M9 p: 587-297-5729 e: lisa.houle@gov.ab.ca

PAUL JOHNSON Samson Cree Nation P.O. Box 159 Hobbema, AB T0C 1N0 e: qikdraw@samsoncree.com

BRENT HOYLAND Assistant CAO Flagstaff County Box 358 Sedgewick, AB T0B 4C0 p: 780-384-4104 e: bhoyland@flagstaff.ab.ca DON HUGHES FortisAlberta Inc. 100 Chippewa Road Sherwood Park, AB e: Don.Hughes@fortisalberta.com HETTI HULS Economic Development Coordinator County of Grande Prairie 11101 - 84 Avenue Clairmont, AB T0H 0W0 p: 780-532-9722 f: 780-539-9880 e: hhuls@countygp.ab.ca DAVE HUNKA Manager, Key Accounts and Municipalities North FortisAlberta Inc. 100 Chippewa Road Sherwood Park, AB T8A 4H4 p: 780-464-8311 e: Dave.hunka@fortisalberta.com www.FortisAlberta.com RYLEY IVERSON CEO Townfolio 129 - 116 Research Drive Saskatoon, SK S7N 3R3 p: 306-716-4070 e: ryley@townfolio.co https://townfolio.co KRISTY JACKSON Economic Development Officer Flagstaff County Box 358 Sedgewick, AB T0B 4C0 p: 780-384-4121 e: kjackson@flagstaff.ab.ca www.flagstaff.ab.ca EVELYNA JAMBROSIC Economic Development Consultant E3 Strategies Inc. Suite 2078, 3-9899 112 Ave Grande Prairie, AB T8V 7T2 p: 780-830-8735 e: e@e3strat.ca www.e3strat.ca SHAUN JANVIER Chipewyan Prairie First Nation General Delivery Chard, AB T0P 1G0 p: 780-559-2259 e: janvier.management@gmail.com

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MIKE JOHNSTON Swan Hills Economic Development Board Swan Hills, AB p: 780-312-0749 e: buck75@telus.net DOUG JONES Chairman Special Areas and Oyen Development Corporation P.O. Box 360 Oyen, AB T0J 2J0 p: 403-664-0560 f: 403-664-3712 e: badlandscharters@gmail.com LEANNA JOSUE Plains Midstream Canada 1400, 607-8 Ave SW Calgary, AB T2P 0A7 p: 403-451-1015 e: leanna.josue@plainsmidstream.com www.plainsmidstream.com DAVID KALINCHUK Economic Development Manager Rocky View County 262075 Rocky View Point Rocky View, AB T4A 0X2 p: 403-520-8195 f: 403-520-1659 e: dkalinchuk@rockyview.ca www.thinkingalberta.com ROBERT KALINOVICH Economic Development Officer Town of Cochrane 101 RancheHouse Rd Cochrane, AB T4C 2K8 p: 403-851-2285 e: robert.kalinovich@cochrane.ca AZAR KAMRAN CEO Horse Lake First Nation P.O. Box 303 Hythe, AB T0H 2C0 p: 780-356-2248 ext.103 e: Azar@horselakefn.ca

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ELVIN KARPVICH Director IBI Group 3rd Floor, 227-11 Ave SW Calgary, AB T2R 1R9 p: 403-470-9920 e: EKarpovich@IBIGroup.com TIM KEATING President Keating Business Strategies Ltd. #101, 4 Cuendet Industrial Way Sylvan Lake, AB T4S 2J7 p: 403-864-6369 f: 844-316-5327 e: tkeating@kbsl.ca www.kbsl.ca KEVIN KELLER Economic Development Officer MD Greenview No. 16 4806-36 Ave, Box 1079 Valleyview, AB T0H 3N0 p: 780-524-7623 e: kevin.keller@mdgreenview.ab.ca www.mdgreenview.ab.ca

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MEMBERS SUHAIL KHOURY Owner Permit Experts Inc. #203, 4103 - 97 Street Edmonton, AB T6E 6E9 p: 780-951-1871 e: khoury@permitexperts.ca permitexperts.ca

MIKE KORMAN Economic Development Manager Town of Cochrane 101 RancheHouse Rd Cochrane, AB T4C 2K8 p: 403-851-2502 f: 403-932-2935 e: mike.korman@cochrane.ca

AUDRA KRUEGER Executive Director Co-operatives First 4, 1810 - 8 St E Saskatoon, SK S7H 0T6 p: 306-382 4410 e: audra@cooperativesfirst.com cooperativesfirst.com

CHRISTOPHER KING Economic Development Manager County of Grande Prairie 10001-84 Avenue Clairmont, AB T0H 0W0 p: 780-532-9722 ext 1156 e: cking@countygp.ab.ca countygp.ab.ca

PAULA KOT FortisAlberta Inc. 100 Chippewa Road Sherwood Park, AB e: Paula.Kot@fortisalberta.com

VICKI KURZ Economic Development Officer Town of Sylvan Lake 5012 48 Ave Sylvan Lake, AB T4S 1G6 p: 403-887-1185 ext 226 f: 403-887-3660 e: vkurz@sylvanlake.ca www.sylvanlake.ca

SCOTT KOVATCH Economic Development Officer Town of Hinton 2nd Floor, 131 Civic Centre Road Hinton, AB T7V 2E5 p: 780-865-6075 e: skovatch@hinton.ca

PERRY KINKAIDE Founder, Past President and CEO Alberta Council of Technologies Society 45 Windermere Crescent St. Albert, AB T8N 3P1 p: 780-990-5874 e: Pkinkaide@shaw.ca www.ABCtech.ca

ROGER KRAMERS Executive Director, Destination Development Alberta Economic Development, Trade and Tourism 6th Floor, 10155 - 102 Street NW Edmonton, AB T5J 4L6 p: 780-643-1368 e: roger.kramers@gov.ab.ca www.alberta.ca

STEVE KIRBY VP Sales Localintel #501, 237-8 Ave SE Calgary, AB T2G 5C3 p: 206-326-9319 e: steve@localinel.co

NEIL KRELL Account Manager Export Development Canada Suite 2403, 308-4 Ave SW Calgary, AB T2P 0H7 e: nkrell@edc.ca

JESSE KIRILLO External Relations Repsol Oil & Gas Canada Edson, AB e: jkirillo@repsol.com PAT KLAK Past President EDA Edmonton, AB e: epklak@telus.net

JASON KRIPS Deputy Minister Alberta Economic Development, Trade and Tourism 13th Floor, 10155 - 102 St Edmonton, AB T5J 4G8 p: 780-415-0900 e: jason.krips@gov.ab.ca

KEVIN KOE Surface Landman Repsol Oil & Gas Canada Suite 2000, 888 - 3 St SW Calgary, AB T2P 5C5 e: kkoe@repsol.com

GREG KRISCHKE KrisKEY Ventures 4601 - 43 St Leduc, AB T9E 5T8 p: 780-719-4701 e: gkrischke1@shaw.ca

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CAYLEE LABRANCHE Economic Development Coordinator Town of Canmore 902 - 7 Avenue Canmore, AB T1W 3K1 e: ClaBranche@canmore.ca HEATHER LALONDE CEO EDCO 24 Barry Street East Long Sault, ON K0C 1P0 p: 613-362-3722 f: 613-931-9827 e: edco@edco.on.ca www.edco.on.ca NORMA LANG Economic Development / Projects Manager Town of Crossfield P.O. Box 500 1005 Ross Street Crossfield, AB T0M 0S0 p: 403-946-5565 f: 403-946-4523 e: norma@crossfieldalberta.com www.crossfieldalberta.com

LOTS OF TRAFFIC AT OUR LOTS.

CROWFOOT CROSSING.CA

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BRIAN LABERGE Town of Hinton 131 Civic Centre Rd Hinton, AB T7V 2E5 e: laberge.brian@gmail.com

2020

WINSTON LAPATAK EDO Saddle Lake Cree Nation P.O. Box 100 Saddle Lake, AB T0A 3T0 p: 780-726-7612 e: winstonlapatak@saddlelake.ca GUY LAPOINTE Community Economic Development Manager City of Lacombe 5432 56 Avenue Lacombe, AB T4L 1E9 p: 403-782-1263 e: glapointe@lacombe.ca lacombe.ecdev.org/ KAYLA LAW Stakeholder Relations Advisor FortisAlberta Inc. 100 Chippewa Road Sherwood Park, AB T8A 4H4 p: 780-464-8816 e: kayla.law@fortisalberta.com SHAWNA LAWSON Senior Economic Development Consultant McSweeney & Associates 121 Crystal Green Bay Okotoks, AB T1S 2N4 p: 587-890-8828 e: shawna@mcsweeney.ca www.mcsweeney.ca MONIQUE LEBLANC Community Services and Business Development Manager Town of Turner Valley Box 330, 514 Windsor Avenue Turner Valley, AB T0L 2A0 p: 403-933-6206 e: moniquel@turnervalley.ca www.turnervalley.ca DANIEL LECKIE Senior Economic Marketing Advisor The City of Edmonton 9th floor, 10111-104 Avenue NW Edmonton, AB T5J 0J4 p: 780-442-1516 e: dan.leckie@edmonton.ca

4,998 VEHICLES A DAY.

36 ACRES AVAILABLE.

61+ LOCATIONS SERVED.

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REBECCA LEIGH Senior Economic Development Officer City of Grande Prairie 10205 98 St Grande Prairie, AB T8V6V3 p: 780-357-4969 e: rleigh@cityofgp.com investgrandeprairie.com SANDRA LEMMON Indigenous, Local and Regional Inclusion Lead Worley Suite 200, 8516 - 51 Avenue NW Edmonton, AB T6E 6A8 p: 780-377-1254 e: sandra.lemmon@worleyparsons.com www.worleyparsonscord.com/ MICHELLE LEVASSEUR Economic Development Officer Town of Calmar 4901 - 50 Avenue Calmar, AB T0C 0V0 p: 780-863-5466 e: mlevasseur@calmar.ca www.calmar.ca TARA LEVICK Economic Development Officer City of Airdrie Economic Development 400 Main St SE Airdrie, AB T4B3C3 p: 403-948-8844 e: tara.levick@airdrie.ca www.airdrienow.ca TREVOR LEWINGTON CEO Economic Development Lethbridge 308 Stafford Drive S Lethbridge, AB T1J 2L1 p: 403-331-0022 e: trevor@chooselethbridge.ca www.chooselethbridge.ca DORA Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;HEUREUX FortisAlberta Inc. 100 Chippewa Road Sherwood Park, AB e: Dora.Lheureux@fortisalberta.com ROB LITZENBERGER FortisAlberta Inc. 100 Chippewa Road Sherwood Park, AB e: Rob.Litzenberger@fortisalberta.com

ALBERTA TO ANYWHERE. RED DEER TO SASKATOON. FT MAC TO FT WORTH. FARM TO FACTORY. INDUSTRY TO INDUSTRY.

MEMBERS MARK LIVINGSTON Regional Vice-President, Western Canada Export Development Canada Suite 2403, 308-4 Ave SW Calgary, AB T2P 0H7 p: 403-817-6700 e: mlivingston@edc.ca DENISE LUSSIER Research Officer Alberta Economic Development, Trade and Tourism 201 - 1 Street East, Box 326 McLennan, AB T0H 2L0 p: 780-536-7107 e: denise.lussier@gov.ab.ca

PHYLLIS MAKI Executive Director Community Futures Network of Alberta Box 753 Cochrane, AB T4C 1A9 p: 403-851-9995 e: pmaki@albertacf.com http://albertacf.com

DAN MATTHEWS Manager, Strategy and Communications Co-operatives First 1810 - 5 Street East Saskatoon, SK S7H0T6 p: 306-382-4422 e: Dan@cooperativesfirst.com www.cooperativesfirst.com

SANDRA MCINTOSH Economic Development Officer Brazeau County Box 77, 7401 TWP RD 494 Drayton Valley, AB T7A 1R1 p: 780-542-7777 e: smcintosh@brazeau.ab.ca https://www.brazeau.ab.ca/

LEE MALLEAU Founder m+a globalnomics 101-905 McKinnon Drive Calgary, AB T2E 4R5 p: 587-899-4211 e: lee@maglobalnomics.com

CAROLINE MCAULEY Mayor Town of Vermilion 5025 - 49 Ave Vermilion, AB T9X 1X5 p: 780-581-1028 e: cmcauley@vermilion.ca www.vermilion.ca

MELODY MCKNIGHT Research Specialist City of Red Deer 1, 5000 51 Avenue Red Deer, AB T4N 4H5 p: 403-342-8105 e: melody.mcknight@reddeer.ca

RICHARD MACDONALD Design and Media Specialist Strathcona County 2001 Sherwood Drive Sherwood Park, AB T8A 3W7 p: 780-416-6757 e: richard.macdonald@strathcona.ca

ADENA MALYK Economic Development Officer Airdrie Economic Development 400 Main Street SE Airdrie, AB T4B 3C3 p: 403-948-8800 ext. 8248 e: adena.malyk@airdrie.ca

PAUL MACEDO Marketing and Communications CANDO 9635 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 45 Avenue Edmonton, AB T6E 5Z8 e: paul.macedo@edo.ca

TOM MANSFIELD ERP Readiness Team Lead Alberta Economic Development, Trade and Tourism 5th floor, 10155 - 102 Street Edmonton, AB T5J 4L6 p: 780-427-6483 e: tom.mansfield@gov.ab.ca www.albertacanada.com/metalfab

GORDON MACIVOR Past President EDA e: gordonmacivor@gmail.com ROB MACKIN Director, Economic Development & Communications City of Beaumont 5600 - 49 Street Beaumont, AB T4X 1A1 p: 780-929-1364 e: rob.mackin@beaumont.ab.ca www.beaumont.ab.ca PATRICIA MACQUARRIE Manager of Economic Development and Communications City of Camrose 5204 - 50 Ave Camrose, AB T4V0S8 p: 780-878-8273 f: 780-672-2469 e: pmacquarrie@camrose.ca camrose.ca

AASA MARSHALL Co-operatives First 15, 95 - 115 St East Saskatoon, SK S7N 2E1 p: 306-382-4410 e: aasa@cooperativesfirst.com STEPHANIE MARTIN FortisAlberta Inc. 100 Chippewa Road Sherwood Park, AB e: Stephanie.Martin@fortisalberta.com PATRICK MATTERN Executive Director - Policy, Business Development & Research Alberta Economic Development, Trade and Tourism Suite 300, 639 - 5 Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2P 0M9 p: 403-297-8900 e: patrick.mattern@gov.ab.ca

LEANNE MCBEAN Economic Development Coordinator Sturgeon County 9613 100 St Morinville, AB T8R 1L9 p: 780-939-8296 f: 780-939-2076 e: lmcbean@sturgeoncounty.ca sturgeoncountybounty.ca SHAWN MCCAULEY Economic Development Officer Town of Stony Plain 4905 - 51 Ave Stony Plain, AB T7Z 1Y1 f: 780-963-2197 e: s.mccauley@stonyplain.com http://choosestonyplain.com/ PETER MCGEE Economic Development Officer The City of Red Deer PO Box 5008, #1 5000, 51 Avenue Red Deer, AB T4N 3T4 p: 403-356-8981 e: peter.mcgee@reddeer.ca http://www.reddeer.ca/ CORINNE MCGIRR General Manager Community Futures Lloydminster & Region #5 4010 50 Avenue Lloydminster, AB T9V 1B2 p: 780-875-5458 e: cmcgirr@albertacf.com http://lloydminsterandregion.albertacf.com/

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

KELLY MCTAGGART Community Engagement Advisor CAPP #2100, 350 - 7 Ave SW Calgary, AB T2P 3N9 p: 403-267-1116 e: kelly.mctaggart@capp.ca ELEANOR MICLETTE Manager of Economic Development Town of Canmore 902 - 7 Avenue Canmore, AB T1W 3K1 p: 403-678-1505 f: 403-678-1524 e: eleanor.miclette@canmore.ca www.canmore.ca

SELENA MCLEAN-MOORE Manager, SE Region, Regional Economic Development Services Alberta Economic Development, Trade and Tourism 1810 - 5 Street East Medicine Hat, AB T1A 0G7 p: 403-529-3113 e: selena.mclean-moore@gov.ab.ca

JOAN MILLER Director of Economic Development Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI) Box 6357 Wetaskiwin, AB T9A 2G1 p: 780-361-6231 e: jmiller@jedialberta.com www.jedialberta.com

KENT MCMULLIN Senior Business Strategist- Industrial Development City of Edmonton 9th Floor, Edmonton Tower, 10111 104 Ave NW Edmonton, AB T5J 0J4 p: 780-442-7150 e: kent.mcmullin@edmonton.ca

KAYLA MINA eSolutionsGroup Ltd. 179 Colonnade Road, Suite 400 Ottawa, ON K2E 7J4 p: 519-340-3739 e: jnuba@esolutionsgroup.ca BENJAMIN MISENER Student University of Alberta Box 5 Site 18 R.R.#1 Didsbury, AB T0M 0W0 e: bsmisene@gmail.com

SEAN MCRITCHIE Manager, Industrial Development Strathcona County 2001 Sherwood Drive Sherwood Park, AB T8A 3W7 p: 780-410-8511 e: sean.mcritchie@strathcona.ca www.strathcona.ca

ANN MITCHELL CAO Lethbridge County #100, 905 - 4 Avenue South Lethbridge, AB T1J 4E4 e: amitchell@lethcounty.ca

ERIC MCSWEENEY President McSweeney & Associates 900 Greenbank Road, Suite 201 Ottawa, ON K2J 1S8 p: 613-825-2896 e: eric@mcsweeney.ca www.mcsweeney.ca

SHIRLEY MOERMAN Director of Planning and Economic Development Athabasca County 3602 48 Avenue Athabasca, AB T9S 1M8 p: 780-675-2273 e: planning@athabascacounty.com www.athabascacounty.com

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MEMBERS CHRIS MONTGOMERY Manager, Exploration and Production Communications CAPP #2100, 350 - 7 Ave SW Calgary, AB T2P 3N9 e: chris.montgomery@capp.ca MARY MORAN President & CEO Calgary Economic Development 731 - 1 St SE Calgary, AB T2G 2G9 p: 403-221-7831 e: mmoran@calgaryeconomicdevelopment.com CHASE MORIN Enoch Cree Nation Box 29 Enoch, AB T7X 3Y3 p: 780-481-1418 e: chase.morin@enochnation.ca MARK MORRISSEY Director of Economic Development City of Fort Saskatchewan 10005 - 102 Street Fort Saskatchewan, AB T8L 2S5 p: 780-992-6231 e: mmorrissey@fortsask.ca www.fortsask.ca ALEXIS NELSON Tourism Development Officer Alberta Economic Development, Trade and Tourism 6th Floor, 10155 - 102 St Edmonton, AB T5J 4L6 p: 780-427-6677 e: alexis.nelson@gov.ab.ca CARMELLE NEPOOSE Certification Coordinator (Western Region) CANDO 9635 – 45 Avenue Edmonton, AB T6E 5Z8 p: 780-990-0303 ext. 237 f: 780-429-7487 e: carmelle.nepoose@edo.ca RICK NEUMANN Development Officer County of Barrhead No. 11 5306-49 St Barrhead, AB T7N 1N5 p: 780-674-3331 f: 780-674-2777 e: rneumann@countybarrhead.ab.ca

JIM NEWMAN Manager, Economic Development Lamont County 5303-50 Ave Lamont, AB T0B 2R0 p: 780-895-2233 ext. 216 f: 780-895-7404 e: jim.n@lamontcounty.ca PATRICIA NICOL Economic Development Officer Town of Devon 1 Columbia Avenue West Devon, AB T9G 1A1 p: 780-987-8306 f: 780-987-4778 e: pnicol@devon.ca www.devon.ca

AMY OSHANYK Economic Development Coordinator Sturgeon County 9613 100 Street Morinville, AB T8R 1L9 e: aoshanyk@sturgeoncounty.ca MARY ANNE OVERWATER Chairperson Mountain View Regional Waste Mgmt P.O. Box 2130 Didsbury, AB T0M 0W0 p: 403-556-6981 f: 403-335-2061 e: maoverwater@olds.ca www.mountainviewwaste.ca

EMILY OLSEN Communications and Strategic Advisor Town of Hinton 131 Civic Centre Rd Hinton, AB T7V 2E5 p: 780-865-6087 e: eolsen@hinton.ca www.hinton.ca SHANE OLSON Manager, Commercial Development Strathcona County 2001 Sherwood Drive Sherwood Park, AB T8A 3W7 p: 780-464-8259 e: shane.olson@strathcona.ca www.strathcona.ca STAN ORLESKY FortisAlberta Inc. 100 Chippewa Road Sherwood Park, AB e: stan.orlesky@fortisalberta.com ANDREW O’ROURKE Economic Development Officer Mackenzie County P.O. Box 640 Fort Vermilion, AB T0H 1N0 p: 780-928-3983 f: 780-928-3636 e: aorourke@mackenziecounty.com www.mackenziecounty.com

SEEK BETTER DAYS

PATTI PALMER Business Licensing Town of Cochrane 101 Ranchehouse Road Cochrane, AB T4C 2K8 p: 403-851-2573 f: 403-932-6032 e: patti.palmer@cochrane.ca JANE PALMER Aboriginal Relations Advisor Devon Canada 60 Meadowview Point Sherwood Park, AB T8H 2E8 p: 587-227-8317 e: pelicanplace@hotmail.com ANDREW PALMIERE O2 Planning + Design 510, 255-17 Ave SW Calgary, AB T2S 2T8 e: andrew.palmiere@o2design.com JAKE PAPINEAU Research Officer Alberta Economic Development, Trade and Tourism 5 Floor Commerce Place Edmonton, AB p: 780-422-0241 e: jake.papineau@gov.ab.ca DAVE PARSELL Co-founder & CEO LocalIntel #501, 237-8 Ave SE Calgary, AB T2G 5C3 p: 403-554-0982 e: dave@localintel.co

RICHARD PAULS Vice President, Service Delivery Integral Strategy Network Inc. 153 - 1581h Hilside Avenue Victoria, BC V8T 2C1 p: 403-874-4943 e:richard.pauls@integralstrategy.net TODD PAWSEY Director of Community Services County of Paintearth No. 18 Box 509 Castor, AB T0C 0X0 p: 403-882-3211 f: 403-882-3560 e: tpawsey@countypaintearth.ca countypaintearth.ca DARRYL PEDERSON FortisAlberta Inc. 100 Chippewa Road Sherwood Park, AB e: Darryl.Pederson@fortisalberta.com JEFF PENNEY Manager of External Relations Shell Albian Sands Fort McMurray, AB T9H 2K4 e: jeff_penney@hotmail.com BYRON PETERS Director of Planning & Development Mackenzie County P.O. Box 640 Fort Vermilion, AB T0H 1N0 p: 780-928-3983 e: bpeters@mackenziecounty.com www.mackenziecounty.com TRISTA PEWAPISCONIAS Co-operatives First 15-95 115 St. E. Saskatoon, SK S7N 2E1 p: 3063824410 e: trista@cooperativesfirst.com DAN PLANTINGA FortisAlberta Inc. 100 Chippewa Road Sherwood Park, AB e: Daniel.Plantinga@fortisalberta.com

invest in alberta

2020

TAMMY POWELL Senior Director, Regional Economic Development Services Alberta Economic Development, Trade and Tourism 5th Floor Commerce Place Edmonton, AB T5J 4L6 p: 780-712-1601 e: tammy.powell@gov.ab.ca RONNIE PRASAD Business Centre Manager BDC #250, 28 Quarry Park Blvd Calgary, AB T2C 5P9 p: 403-292-4030 e: ronnie.prasad@bdc.ca JERELD PRATT Economic Development Officer Clearwater County 5016 54 St Rocky Mountain House, AB T4T 1E7 p: 403-845-4444 f: 403-844-1850 e: jereldpratt@gmail.com clearwatercounty.ca ALYSHIA PRETULAC Stakeholder Relations Specialist Plains Midstream Canada 1400, 607-8 Ave SW Calgary, AB T2P 0A7 p: 587-293-8392 e: alyshia.pretulac@plainsmidstream.com www.plainsmidstream.com/ SHANNON PREUS Regional Manager Partnerships, Prairies Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) Suite 110, 444 - 7 Ave SW Calgary, AB T2P 0X8 p: 403-407-9170 e: shannon.preus@bdc.ca www.bdc.ca

Get your business started in the hub of the West Yellowhead and take advantage of our competitive tax rates, skilled workforce, and office space. Minutes from National and Provincial parks, Hinton has a friendly mountain community feel, with the lifestyle and views to impress.

Business Development Made Easy

Unparalleled Quality of Living

For more information contact: Scott Kovatch, Economic Development Officer skovatch@hinton.ca, 780-865-6075

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ERHARD POGGEMILLER Town of Didsbury Box 790, 1606-14 St Didsbury, AB T0M 0W0 e:epoggemiller@didsbury.ca

edaalberta.ca investalbertamag.ca

MEMBERS MARY LEE PRIOR Community Economic Development Officer Town of Vermilion 5026 - 49 Ave Vermilion, AB T9X 1X6 p: 780-581-2419 f: 780-853-4910 e: mlprior@vermilion.ca www.vermilion.ca ROB PULYK Councillor Town of Vermilion 5021 - 49 Ave Vermilion, AB T9X 1X1 e: rpulyk@vermilion.ca STEPHEN RAUSCH Strathcona County 2001 Sherwood Drive Sherwood Park, AB e: stephen.rausch@strathcona.ca CLIFF REILING Ec.D(F) Past President EDA Box 1435 Blairmore, AB T0K 0E0 p: 403-563-5572 f: 403-563-0576 e: cliff.reiling@shaw.ca MICHAEL RICHARD Senior Business Development Specialist Sturgeon County 9613 100 Street Morinville, AB T8R 1L9 p: 780-939-8356 f: 780-939-3003 e: mrichard@sturgeoncounty.ca www.startinsturgeon.ca/ JOHN RICHTER Volunteer Member Village of Beiseker Economic Development Committee Box 267 Beiseker, AB T0M 0G0 p: 403-947-3814 f: 403-947-3814 e: richterjohn014@gmail.com

BRANDY RIMNEY Senior Surface Land Coordinator Repsol Oil & Gas Canada Suite 2000, 888 - 3 St SW Calgary, AB T2P 5C5 p: 403-693-2262 e: brimney@repsol.com

KATRINA ROSSOL Economic Development Officer City of St. Albert 29 Sir Winston Churchill Avenue St. Albert, AB T8N 0G3 p: 780-459-1724 e: krossol@stalbert.ca

BERT ROACH Economic Development Coordinator Woodlands County #1 Woodlands Lane Whitecourt, AB T7S 1N3 p: 780-286-5774 f: 780-778-8402 e: bert.roach@woodlands.ab.ca www.woodlands.ab.ca

JANA ROWE Tourism & Economic Development Lac La Biche County Box 1679 Lac La Biche, AB T0A 2C0 p: 780-623-6750 f: 780-623-6737 e: jana.rowe@laclabichecounty.com www.laclabichecounty.com

NANCY ROBBINS Manager Community Futures West Yellowhead 221 Pembina Avenue Hinton, AB T7V 2B3 p: 780-864-1224 f: 780-865-1227 e: nrobbins@albertacf.com

DAN RUDE Chief Executive Officer Alberta Urban Municipalities Association #300, 8616-51 Ave Edmonton, AB T6E 6E6 p: 780-433-4431 f: 780-433-4454 e: drude@auma.ca

GREG ROBINSON Director of Community & Economic Development Town of Raymond 15 Broadway S. Raymond, AB T0K 2S0 p: 403-752-3322 f: 403-752-4379 e: robinson@raymond.ca www.raymond.ca

KENT RUPERT Executive Director International Blue Zones Project Airdrie, AB T4B 2Z6 p: 403-614-3201 e: contactkentrupert@gmail.com www.bluezonesproject.com

GEORGE ROGERS CAO Town of Vermilion 5023 - 49 Ave Vermilion, AB T9X 1X3 p: 780-581-2419 f: 780-853-8410 e: economic@vermilion.ca www.vermilion.ca ALEXANDRA ROSS Economic Development Officer Town of Strathmore 680 Westchester Road Strathmore, AB T1P 1J1 p: 403-361-1669 f: 403-934-4713 e: alexandra.ross@strathmore.ca www.strathmore.ca

DONAVON SALTVOLD FortisAlberta Inc. 100 Chippewa Road Sherwood Park, AB e: Donavon.Saltvold@fortisalberta.com PAUL SALVATORE CEO Municipal Experts Inc. 403 - 15 Street East Drumheller, AB T0J0Y5 p: 403-334-4922 e: psalvatore@municipalexperts.ca www.municipalexperts.ca

Fostering Innovation, Transformation & Diversification

JENELLE SASKIW Senior Associate Alberta Counsel 800-9707 110 St NW Edmonton, AB T5K 2L9 p: 780-652-2519 f: 780-652-1312 e: js@albertacounsel.com www.AlbertaCounsel.com

LESLIE SHIER Manager, Real Estate Calgary Economic Development 731 - 1 St SE Calgary, AB T2G 2G9 p: 403-767-1318 e: lshier@calgaryeconomicdevelopment.com www.calgaryeconomicdevelopment.com HARRY SHNIDER Senior Planner IBI Group 300, 227 - 11 Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2R 1R9 p: 403-270-5600 f: 403-270-5610 e: harry.shnider@ibigroup.com ibigroup.com

GORD SAWATZKY Executive Director Business Link #500, 10150 - 100 Street NW Edmonton, AB T5J 0P6 p: 780-422-7774 f: 1-800-272-9675 e: gord@businesslink.ca BRADY SCHNELL Economic Development Officer Town of Claresholm Box 1000 Claresholm, AB T0L 0T0 p: 403-489-0762 f: 403-625-3869 e: edo@claresholm.ca www.townofclaresholm.com

VANESSA SIMONIN Community Futures Network of Alberta 5006 - 50 St, Box 3175 Stony Plain, AB T7Z 1Y4 p: 780-257-7379 e: vsimonin@cfcapitalregion.ca

JAMIE-LYNN SCOBIE Economic Development Specialist â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Commercial City of Spruce Grove 315 Jespersen Avenue Spruce Grove, AB T7X 3E8 p: 780-962-7634 ext.139 e: jlscobie@sprucegrove.org NOVA SEKHON Economic Development Officer Brooks Region P.O. Box 879, 201 - 1 Avenue West Brooks, AB T1R 1B7 p: 403-362-3333 ext. 1135 e: nsekhon@brooks.ca

DARLENE SINCLAIR General Manager Community Futures Lethbridge Region 2626 South Parkside Drive Lethbridge, AB T1K 0C4 p: 587-800-8431 e: dsinclair@albertacf.com www.lethbridgeregion.albertacf.com ALISSA SKLAR PH.D VP Marketing GIS Planning Inc. 730 Avenue Upper Roslyn Westmount, QC H4W 1V1 p: 514-560-8559 e: asklar@gisplanning.com www.gisplanning.com/ KAYLA SMITH Marketing Specialist City of Red Deer 1, 5000 51 Avenue Red Deer, AB T4N 4H5 p: 403-342-8105 e: kayla.smith@reddeer.ca

JOHN SENNEMA Manager, Land & Economic Development The City of Red Deer P.O. Box 5008 Red Deer, AB T4N 3T4 p: 403-342-8106 f: 403-342-8260 e: john.sennema@reddeer.ca

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MEMBERS NICOLE SMITH FortisAlberta Inc. 100 Chippewa Road Sherwood Park, AB e: Nicole.Smith@fortisalberta.com CAM SORENSON Communications CAPP #2100, 350 - 7 Ave SW Calgary, AB T2P 3N9 e: cam.sorenson@capp.ca HOLLY SORGEN General Manager Community Futures Grande Prairie & Region 325, 9909 102 Street Grande Prairie, AB T8V2V4 p: 780-814-5340 f: 780-532-5129 e: holly.sorgen@albertacf.com grandeprairie.albertacf.com DANIELLE STANLEY Special Projects Coordinator CANDO 9635 – 45 Avenue Edmonton, AB T6E 5Z8 p: 780-990-0303 ext. 233 f: 780-429-7487 e: danielle.stanley@edo.ca CYNTHIA STEWART Director, Community Relations International Council of Shopping Centers 555 - 12 St NW, Suite 660 Washington, DC 20004 p: 1-864-968-9324 f: 1-732-694-1734 e: cstewart@icsc.org TONY STOLZ Community Futures Network of Alberta P.O. Box 753 Cochrane, AB T4C1A9 p: 587-433-6060 e: tstolz@albertacf.com JESSICA SURGENOR Economic Development Officer Brooks Region 201 - 1 Avenue West Brooks, AB T1R 1B7 p: 403-362-3333 f: 403-362-4787 e: jsurgenor@brooks.ca www.brooksregion.ca

CINDY SUTER Economic Development Lac Ste Anne County P.O. Box 219 Sangudo, AB T0E 2AO p: 780-785-3411 f: 780-785-2985 e: csuter@lsac.ca BRUCE TANNAS Director, Business Development & Investment Attraction Alberta Economic Development, Trade and Tourism 10155 102 Street Edmonton, AB T5J 4L6 p: 780-427-6485 e: bruce.tannas@gov.ab.ca https://investalberta.ca/industry-profiles/ tourism/ KERRIE TAYLOR Economic Development Coordinator Municipal District of Greenview P.O. Box 404 Grovedale, AB T0H 1X0 p: 780-228-2165 f: 780-538-1221 e: kerrie.taylor@mdgreenview.ab.ca JAMES TESSIER Regional Economic Development Specialist Alberta Economic Development, Trade and Tourism P.O. Box 8074, Bonnyville Provincial Bldg., #207 4904 50 Street Bonnyville, AB T9N 2J6 p: 780-815-4036 e: james.tessier@gov.ab.ca KELSEY THEN Plains Midstream Canada 1400, 607-8 Ave SW Calgary, AB T2P 0A7 p: 403-298-2100 e: community.investment@plainsmidstream. com VERONA THIBAULT Executive Director Saskatchewan Economic Development Association Box 113 Saskatoon, SK S7K 3K1 p: 306-384-5817 f: 306-384-5818 e: verona.thibault@seda.sk.ca www.seda.sk.ca

REAL SAVINGS. REAL CHANGE.

CAROL THOMSON Economic Development Officer Paintearth Economic Partnership Society Box 509 Castor, AB T0C 0X0 p: 403-882-3211 f: 403-882-3560 e: cthomson@countypaintearth.ca www.paintearth.ab.ca

TANYA TOURANGEAU First Nation - Municipal CEDI Program Coordinator CANDO 9635 – 45 Avenue Edmonton, AB T6E 5Z8 p: 780-504-1537 e: tanya.tourangeau@edo.ca www.edo.ca/cedi

MITCH THOMSON Executive Director Olds Institute for Community & Regional Development Box 4210 Olds, AB T4H 1P8 p: 403-556-1105 e: mthomson@oldsinstitute.com www.oldsinstitute.com

KEVIN TURNER Regional Director Office of Small and Medium Enterprises 5th Floor, 10025 Jasper Avenue Edmonton, AB T5J 1S6 p: 587-783-9099 e: kevin.turner@pwgsc-tpsgc.gc.ca

LOGAN THOMSON FortisAlberta Inc. 100 Chippewa Road Sherwood Park, AB e: Logan.Thomson@fortisalberta.com BEV THORNTON Executive Director Alberta SouthWest REDA Box 1041 Pincher Creek, AB T0K 1W0 p: 403-627-0244 e: bev@albertasouthwest.com www.albertasouthwest.com JORDAN TIDEY MDB Insight Winnipeg, MB e: jtidey@mdbinsight.com

WALTER VALENTINI Executive Director Palliser Economic Partnership Box 1046 Medicine Hat, AB T1A 7H1 p: 403-526-7552 e: walter@palliseralberta.com MARK VANDENBERGHE Manager, North Central Region, Regional Economic Development Services Alberta Economic Development, Trade and Tourism 5th Flr, Commerce Place, 10155-102 St Edmonton, AB T5J 4L6 p: 780-427-6450 f: 780-422-5804 e: mark.vandenberghe@gov.ab.ca JOHN VANDERMEER Reeve Clearwater County P.O. Box 550 Rocky Mountain House, AB T4T 1A4 p: 403-845-4444 f: 403-845-7330 e: divisionfour@clearwatercounty.ca www.clearwatercounty.ca

LORI TODD Controller Business Link 500-10150 100 St NW Edmonton, AB T5J 0P6 p: 780-415-2582 f: 780-422-0055 e: lori@businesslink.ca www.businesslink.ca NANCY TOOMBS Marketing / Communications Economic Developers Alberta Suite 127 #406, 917-85 Street SW Calgary, AB T3H 5Z9 p: 1-866-671-8182 e: nancy.toombs@edaalberta.ca www.edaalberta.ca

GLEN VANSTONE Vice-President, Research & Strategy Edmonton Economic Development Corporation World Trade Centre, 9990 Jasper Ave Edmonton, AB T5J 1P7 p: 780-917-7634 e: gvanstone@edmonton.com

BRAD WAGNER Director Business Restructuring BDC #250, 28 Quarry Park Blvd Calgary, AB p: 403-382-3147 e: brad.wagner@bdc.ca TONY WALKER General Manager Community Futures Alberta Southwest PO Box 1270, 436 Col. Macleod Blvd. Fort Macleod, AB T0L 0Z0 p: 403-553-0264 f: 403-553-3080 e: tony@cfabsw.com www.southwest.albertacf.com DAVE WALKER Manager, Economic & Business Development City of Spruce Grove 315 Jespersen Avenue Spruce Grove, AB T7X 3E8 p: 780-962-7608 f: 780-962-0149 e: dwalker@sprucegrove.org www.sprucegrove.org RAY WANUCH Executive Director CANDO 9635 – 45 Avenue Edmonton, AB T6E 5Z8 p: 780-990 0303 e: ray.wanuch@edo.ca MAUREEN WARD-CAISSE VP Operations Ermineskin Cree Nation Box 1320 Maskwacis, AB T0C 1N0 p: 780-585-3000 Ext. 34 f: 780-585-0721 e: Maureen@ngcinc.ca JENALEE WARING Economic Development Coordinator Flagstaff County Box 358 Sedgewick, AB T0B 4C0 p: 780-384-4152 e: jwaring@flagstaff.ab.ca

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MEMBERS LESLIE WARREN Economic Development Specialist Community/Business Builder Okotoks, AB T0L 0R0 p: 403-485-5694 e: leswarren78@gmail.com LORIE WATSON Economic Development Officer Town of Fox Creek 102 Kaybob Drive, Box 149 Fox Creek, AB T0H 1P0 p: 780-622-7889 e: loriewatson@live.ca DEANNA WEDER Town of Okotoks P.O. Box 20, Station Main Okotoks, AB T1S 1K1 p: 403-938-8907 e: dweder@okotoks.ca GENE WESLEY General Manager Community Futures Lac La Biche Box 2188, 10106 - 102 Avenue Lac La Biche, AB T0A 2C0 p: 780-623-2662 ext 1 f: 780-623-2671 e: gmwesley7@gmail.com www.cfllb.com TYLER WESTOVER Economic Development Manager Sturgeon County 9613 - 100 Street Morinville, AB T8R 1L9 p: 780-939-8358 f: 780-939-3003 e: twestover@sturgeoncounty.ca www.startinsturgeon.ca VICKIE WETCHIE Economic Development Officer Montana Cree Nation Box 186 Maskwacis, AB T0C 1N0 p: 780-585-3744 f: 780-585-3264 e: vawetchie@yahoo.com DALE WHEELDON President & CEO British Columbia Economic Development Association 102-9300 Nowell Street Chilliwack, BC V2P 4V7 p: 604-795-7119 f: 604-795-7118 e: dwheeldon@bceda.ca www.bceda.ca BRAD WHITE Director Planning and Economic Development Town of Morinville 10125 100 Ave Morinville, AB T8R 1L6 p: 780-939-7622 e: brad.white@morinville.ca KYLE WHITE Education and Engagement Lead Co-operatives First 15, 95 - 115 Street E Saskatoon, SK S7N 2E1 p: 306-203-4484 e: kyle@cooperativesfirst.com cooperativesfirst.com SIMONE WILEY Director of Development Services Town of Westlock 10003 - 106 Street Westlock, AB T7P 2K3 p: 780-349-4444 f:780-349-4436 e: swiley@westlock.ca www.westlock.ca

BILL WILLIAMS Executive Director Nunavut Economic Developers Association P.O. Box 1990 Iqaluit, NU X0A 0H0 p: 867-979-4620 f: 867-979-4622 e: exdir@nunavuteda.com www.nunavuteda.com HAROLD WILSON Manager, Economic Development City of Leduc #1 Alexandra Park Leduc, AB T9E 4C4 p: 780-980-8438 f: 780-980-7127 e: hwilson@leduc.ca www.leduc.ca DANIELLE WOOLNOUGH Economic Development Officer Town of Morinville 10125 100 Ave Morinville, AB T8R 1L6 e: info@morinville.ca KIMBERLEY WORTHINGTON Executive Director Central Alberta Economic Partnership 5013 49 Avenue Red Deer, AB T4N 3X1 p: 403-357-2237 e: kimberley@caepalberta.com www.caepalberta.com

LARRY WRIGHT Strategy & Technology Officer (Chairman Olds Economic Development Secretariat ) Town of Olds 4512 46 St Olds, AB T4H 1R5 p: 403-507-4803 f: 403-556-6537 e: larry.wright@olds.ca www.olds.ca

Product Solutions for Agriculture, Agri-Foods, Forestry, Transportation & Petrochemicals Specialized/Custom Hose Assembly Design & Engineering Solutions Custom Manufacturing Capabilities Consulting, Training & Support

BEN YOUNG Economic Development Officer Taber Economic Development A, 4900 - 50 Street Taber, AB T1G 1T1 p: 403-308-5877 e: ben.young@taber.ca

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TARA ZELLER Economic Development Officer Municipal District of Greenview Box 214 Grande Cache, AB T0E 0Y0 p: 780-524-6092 e: tara.zeller@mdgreenview.ab.ca www.expandyourvision.ca VIVIAN ZITTLAW Economic Development Officer Town of Westlock 10003 - 106 Street Westlock, AB T7P 2K3 p: 780-350-2109 f: 780-349-4436 e: vzittlaw@westlock.ca www.westlock.ca

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS................................................................... PAGE Alberta Innovates..............................................................................................................................80 Battle River Region............................................................................................................................66 Calgary Economic Development........................................................................................................54 City of Airdrie.............................................................................................................................16, 132 City of Camrose...............................................................................................................................120 City of Grande Prairie........................................................................................................................32 City of Leduc......................................................................................................................................48 City of Lloydminster...........................................................................................................................50 City of Red Deer.................................................................................................................................26 City of Spruce Grove........................................................................................................................114 City of St. Albert...............................................................................................................................102 Co-Operatives First............................................................................................................................74 County of Grande Prairie....................................................................................................................58 Crowfoot Crossing...........................................................................................................................124 Economic Developers Alberta..........................................................................................................102 Economic Development Lethbridge...................................................................................................24 Edmonton Global...............................................................................................................................14 Fortis Alberta.......................................................................................................................................2 Joint Economic Development.............................................................................................................34 Lethbridge County.............................................................................................................................82 Municipal Climate Change Action Centre.......................................................................................128 Municipal District of Greenview.........................................................................................................72 New Line Hose and Fittings.............................................................................................................129 Parkland County..............................................................................................................................118 Peaks to Prairies................................................................................................................................88 Rocky View County.........................................................................................................................5, 11 Stettler Regional Board of Trade......................................................................................................105 Strathcona County...........................................................................................................................130 Stratus.............................................................................................................................................123 Sturgeon County..............................................................................................................................123 Thorhild County................................................................................................................................127 Town of Calmar................................................................................................................................125 Town of Crossfield..............................................................................................................................92 Town of Fort Macleod.........................................................................................................................86 Town of Hinton.................................................................................................................................126 Town of Mayerthorpe..........................................................................................................................62 Town of Okotoks.................................................................................................................................94 Town of Rocky Mountain House........................................................................................................110 Town of Strathmore............................................................................................................................98 Town of Sundre..................................................................................................................................42 Town of Vermilion.............................................................................................................................106 Town of Westlock................................................................................................................................68 Town of Whitecourt............................................................................................................................40

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STRATHCONA COUNTY

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

IN STRATHCONA COUNTY, YOU CAN.

Amazing investment opportunities in petrochemical, food processing and logistics

Here are some quick facts and statistics you should know about Strathcona County.

DEMOGRAPHICS • • • •

Population of 98,381 Average age of 39 Average household income of $160,655 Average home resale price of $457,704

LEADING INDUSTRIES

STRATHCONA COUNTY IS A COMMUNITY

“Strathcona County enables the success and growth of business and industry. Supporting a strong, diversified and resilient economy, which contributes to a better quality of life and place.”

showcasing a high quality of life, well-paying jobs, strong real estate values, and excellent infrastructure. Industry has been a major partner as we’ve developed into a thriving community and part of Canada’s largest hydrocarbon processing region. Numerous competitive advantages have driven expansion of this economic engine in Alberta and for Canada. These include a skilled and specialized workforce, access to petrochemical feedstock, cluster of world-class industrial facilities, availability of zoned land, excellent road, rail and pipeline connections to regional and global markets, and globally competitive tax rates. There are many opportunities for growth and diversification from both within and outside of the petrochemical and hydrocarbon industries found in Strathcona County. Some highlighted growth opportunities include advanced manufacturing, transportation and logistics, agriculture and food processing. When you invest here, you will join other leading companies like Shell, ATCO, Imperial, Inter Pipeline, Meg Energy, Pembina, Plains Midstream, Suncor, Maple Leaf Foods, Alta Steel, and Lehigh Hanson.

• • • • •

Hydrocarbon processing Manufacturing Engineering & Scientific/Technical Construction Transportation & Logistics

BUSINESS • No business licencing required • Over 11,000 businesses (3,527 with employees) • Tax split of 64% non-residential, 36% residential

WE ARE HERE FOR YOU Strathcona County is the perfect community for you to do amazing things. We are home to innovative entrepreneurs, business leaders, a strong local Chamber of Commerce, and boundless opportunity. Contact our dynamic group of economic development professionals to start or grow a business, gain market intelligence, resources or support. A dedicated team is here for you every step of the way.

A BETTER QUALITY OF LIFE Strathcona County is one of the most prosperous and educated communities in Alberta and close to Edmonton – providing an ideal environment for a career and family. The community is safe, friendly and vibrant. Enjoy easy access to schools, public transit, recreation, restaurants and shopping. With over one million people in the region, Strathcona County’s location is the perfect place to live, work and explore.

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For more information, contact: Strathcona County Economic Development and Tourism (780) 464-8095 scedt@strathcona.ca strathcona.ca/youcanbusiness

edaalberta.ca investalbertamag.ca

From argitech to energy, this is the place where you can experience amazing investment opportunities. Discover why Strathcona County is the right choice.

strathcona.ca/youcanbusiness

Love STARTING-UP HERE. We do!

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