Economic Development Week: Joint statement

May 12, 2025

Minister of Jobs, Economy and Trade Matt Jones and Parliamentary Secretary for Small Business and Northern Development Tany Yao issued the following statement in celebration of Economic Development Week (May 11-17):

“Economic development is what turns potential into progress and productivity into prosperity. It’s how we attract investment, grow businesses and create good jobs in communities across Alberta. That’s why Economic Development Week matters – it highlights the work being done every day to build a stronger, more resilient economy for all.

“Thanks to the efforts of economic developers and Alberta’s business-friendly policies, our province continues to lead the country in growth. In 2024, our per capita investment was 67 per cent higher than the national average. Our province incorporated more than 58,500 new businesses – up 5.5 per cent from the year before – and created almost one-third of all private-sector jobs in Canada. Our employment growth hit three per cent, the highest among provinces.

“We’re seeing the results of targeted supports like the $15 million Investment and Growth Fund, which is helping secure major projects and permanent jobs from companies like S3 Group, Lufthansa Technik Canada and Structural Truss Systems Ltd.

“Through the province’s other programs like the Northern and Regional Economic Development grant and the Site Selector Tool, Albertans can access more economic development opportunities close to home in municipalities, Indigenous communities and regions across the province.

“With strong economic development, Alberta will remain a place where ambition turns into opportunity – where families can put down roots, businesses can thrive and every community, big or small, has the strongest foundation to achieve lasting success.

“To all those who contribute to our province’s economic development, thank you for the important work you do. You’re helping shape Alberta’s future for the better.”

Relevant information:

• Northern and Regional Economic Development Program
• Regional economic development resources
• Biz Connect
• Workforce Partnerships Grants

NT5