OLDS — Seven municipalities have so far joined a coalition to spur economic growth in central Alberta.
And it could get bigger – much bigger – because business owners and entrepreneurs in the region have been invited to join Central Alberta First (CAF) as well.
Partnering communities include the towns of Olds, Innisfail and Penhold as well as the City of Red Deer, plus Mountain View County, Red Deer County and Kneehill County.
The vision is to also include other partners in the coalition, like learning institutions.
The creation of CAF was spurred by Business Retention Expansion and Workforce Development (BREWD), an initiative of the Town of Olds. BREWD is Phase 1 of a larger economic growth strategy, according to Olds economic development manager Sandra Blyth.
“The goal of the BREWD initiative is to create a thriving business environment that supports existing enterprises while attracting investment and talent,” a news release issued recently says.
“Central Alberta First will gather insights directly from business owners and entrepreneurs across the region to better understand the challenges they face and the opportunities they see.”
Business owners and entrepreneurs are being urged to get involved with the coalition, as they’re “best positioned to identify the region’s strengths and challenges,” the news release says.
“Participating business owners will contribute to discussions about key topics such as workforce development, rising operational costs, accessing capital, emerging market trends, and more,” the release says.
“Whether you run a small local shop or manage a larger enterprise, your input matters,” the release adds.
It says business owners who get involved in the coalition will not only shape the plan to address their concerns but also help oversee its implementation.
Their efforts will be supported through access to workforce development programs, funding opportunities, and business support networks.
“Our focus is on making sure the ideas generated by our business community are supported by action,” Blyth said in the news release. “We’re forming partnerships now that will ensure the solutions we develop are sustainable and effective.”
“This is a chance to create solutions that reflect the unique needs of Central Alberta,” Town of Penhold Mayor Mike Yargeau said in a prepared statement.
“By bringing together perspectives from across the region, we can develop a practical plan that helps businesses of all sizes grow and succeed.”
