Northern Alberta is a growing region that is creating more and more opportunity for Albertans across multiple industries. Alberta’s government recognizes our northern and regional communities face unique challenges to their local economies. Alberta’s government is committed to supporting our northern and regional communities and is making considerable investments to ensure businesses across Alberta thrive.

As part of that support, Alberta’s government is providing $91,000 to the Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Economic Development and Tourism’s Business Connections Program, a strategic initiative aimed at fostering growth and diversification for more than 100 small- and medium-sized enterprises across the region.

"Investing in the growth and success of small- and medium-sized enterprises is essential to building a resilient and diversified economy. This program will provide critical support to businesses in Fort McMurray and all across the Municipality of Wood Buffalo, helping them scale operations, improve competitiveness and create jobs for families."

Matt Jones, Minister of Jobs, Economy and Trade

Investment in the Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Economic Development and Tourism’s Business Connections Program provides vital economic and employment opportunities in the region by offering supports to businesses for innovative marketing, financial management, workforce recruitment and retention, customer service and operational efficiency. The Business Connections Program is projected to provide vital employment opportunities in the region, viability and opportunity for increased profitability.

The Business Connections Program, supported by the government’s Northern and Regional Economic Development (NRED) program, is designed to deliver targeted training and coaching to strengthen local businesses. The NRED program supports Alberta municipalities, non-profit organizations and Indigenous communities in establishing projects that help support and retain businesses, increase investment attraction, develop key sectors of the local economy and build capacity for economic growth.

“Supporting small businesses in northern Alberta is key to unlocking the region’s full potential. The Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Business Connections Program is helping local entrepreneurs grow, create jobs and strengthen our communities for the future."

Tany Yao, parliamentary secretary for northern development and small business

"The Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Business Connections Program is a critical part of our efforts to help small businesses thrive and adapt to changing market conditions. By building stronger businesses, we're also building a stronger community."

Melonie Doucette, director, Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Economic Development and Tourism

With small- and medium-sized enterprises helping to drive Alberta’s economy, the Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Business Connections Program will play a pivotal role in ensuring the long-term stability and prosperity of Fort McMurray and the Municipality of Wood Buffalo.

As part of the Alberta Advantage, Alberta’s government is ensuring communities in all corners of the province can attract job-creating investments that support economic opportunities for all Albertans.

Key facts:

  • The Business Connections Program is projected to support the creation of 25 full-time and 17 part-time jobs, providing vital employment opportunities in the region.
  • The NRED program was established in 2022 and to date has supported a total of 144 projects, with funding for feasibility studies and planning and economic strategies such as investment attraction.
  • Through Budget 2024, Alberta’s government will continue to invest $3 million annually over the next three years in the NRED program.

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