Alberta SouthWest Business and Investment Marketplace

This unique region is an ideal location to live in, invest in and grow a business in. Businesses profit from:

• Low Business Costs – affordable land and housing; competitive water and energy utility rates; low property, corporate and personal income tax; no sales tax; no machinery and equipment tax;
• Entrepreneurial Spirit – a skilled, young and productive workforce and “can do” problem-solvers;
• Strategic Location and Access – unique advantages and partnerships due to bordering on British Columbia and Montana
• Export Capacity – well situated to take advantage of the trade corridors;
• Collaborative Communities – collaborative regional partnerships and personal connections between private business, government and educational institutions;
• Charming small towns and stunning landscapes – social, cultural, and recreational opportunities right outside your door!
• AlbertaSW is the only internationally Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO) in western Canada.

This distinctive landscape is where the prairies meet the Rocky Mountains.

• Over 37,000 residents (2021), living in 15 vibrant communities, call southwest Alberta home. The major centres, ranging from 2,100 to 5,500 in population are Cardston, Claresholm, Crowsnest Pass, Fort Macleod, Nanton, and Pincher Creek.
• Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park is one of 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites within 2 hours of each other.
• Two ski hills, national and provincial parks, outdoor adventure activities and a rich culture that is celebrated in museums and interpretive centres. Landscapes and historic communities are attracting film projects from around the world.
• The region boasts one of the highest quality of life standards in the world, with recreational settings, strong community values and an average household income of over $85,000 (2022).
• Each year, since 2018, the region has been listed by Green Destinations International as a Top 100 Global Sustainable Destination, with clean, fresh water, more hours of sunshine than anywhere else in Canada, clear starry nights, a bounty of natural resources.
• Over 3,500 businesses operate in our diverse rural economy. Local companies benefit from a skilled and educated workforce. In 2022, 51.1% of the labour force is reported to hold a university degree or post-secondary diploma. Our high schools are innovating dual credit programs to accelerate students into trades and applied studies.