OLDS - Central Alberta First launched a survey Thursday to help the public/private collaboration decide on strategies to help shape the region's economic landscape.
Central Alberta First (CAF) is a regional collaboration of business, municipalities and provincial and federal agencies and governments who are committed to growing business in central Alberta.
Participation in the survey is crucial for gathering the data needed to develop effective strategies, the group said in press release announcing the survey kick-off.
"Active participation from our business community is essential," said Kelly Kierluk, Community Futures Central Alberta general manager. "The more input we receive, the better we can tailor our efforts to meet the specific needs of our local economy."
Community Futures Central Alberta is one of Central Alberta First’s 16 funding partners, which also includes the municipalities of Olds, Mountain View County, Red Deer County, Kneehill County, Innisfail, Red Deer and Penhold, the federal government, and corporations like Atco and FortisAlberta.
Together, the entities are advancing the Next Generation Economy Initiative (NGEI), a three-year plan designed to foster business growth and development.
The first phase of the NGEI strategy is the Business Retention and Expansion Workforce Development (BREWD) project to foster a more competitive business environment that provides business and industry the economic support system they need to grow and succeed.
The survey launched Jan. 23 is a BREWD initiative.
To ensure a robust response, more than 60 community volunteers have been trained to reach out to more than 600 businesses throughout the region.
"We believe that the insights and experiences of our local businesses are invaluable," said John Powell, an economic development officer with the Town of Innisfail. "The BREWD initiative is an opportunity for business owners to voice their needs and contribute directly to the creation of an action plan that will benefit the entire community."
From Jan. 23 to Feb. 28, businesses across Central Alberta are encouraged to participate in the comprehensive online survey available at www.centralalbertafirst.ca.
