FMWBEDT Newsletter insights - December 2024

It's been busy here at FMWBEDT as we finalize 2024 and plan ahead for 2025. I typically use this section to talk about specific economic development and tourism items we're working on each month but for this edition I want to say two things.

First, I want to introduce and welcome our new Board which will be in effect January 1st (read our blog post here). Board member Keith McGrath expressed his excitement for the oncoming members:

"We are thrilled to introduce our new Board members. They bring a wealth of experience and dedication to driving business and social prosperity in the region. With lessons learned from the past, this new team, alongside our CEO, is committed to fostering sustainable relationships with the community and Council. Together, we aim to build a brighter future, laying the foundation today for the prosperity of tomorrow. Here's to a journey of innovation, collaboration, and growth!"

Second, I want to say just how grateful I am to the community and the staff here at FMWBEDT. There were lots of changes to and within our organization this year. There was a lot to learn, and a lot to balance stepping into this Interim CEO position. I'm proud of what we've done for business and investment attraction, entrepreneurship and innovation, and tourism.

We're excited for 2025 and look forward to helping shape an FMWB you align with.

From myself and all of us here at FMWBEDT- Merry Christmas and have a happy New Year!

- Lisa Sweet, Interim CEO,
Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Economic Development & Tourism

FMWBEDT awarded NRED grant from Government of Alberta

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. View News Release

FMWB Mobile Visitor Information Center

We have strategic channels set-up for marketing FMWB to visitors across Canada. To accompany this strategy, we wanted a local asset to directly capture the attention of visitors when they're here. We used to have a visitor information center but in 2016 we lost this asset to the wildfire. FMWB's new MVIC replaces the need for a static tourism information center and allows us to showcase tourism across the region in an interactive and memorable way. Read Full Blog Post

[Call for Artists!] YMM Digital Art Exhibit

The Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) is seeking artists to submit their work for the 2025 YMM Digital Art Exhibit, to be showcased on the airport’s prominent digital screens. This exciting opportunity invites artists to contribute their creativity and talent to enhance the airport experience for travelers to enjoy. YMM is looking for captivating artwork that is appropriate for all ages and demonstrates respect for all cultures and identities.

More Details and Application

Photo by Robert Coppard,view the original and his full exhibit

Startup YMM Events Calendar

Empower your business journey with events and workshops tackling key challenges—from financial management to legal insights and website building, we've got you covered. Check Events

State of the Region Address by Mayor Sandy Bowman

Be sure to attend the State of The Region Address Luncheon with Mayor Sandy Bowman, hosted by the Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce on January 29th at Fort McMurray Golf Club. Network with fellow community members and seize the opportunity to ask Mayor Bowman about the exciting future of our beautiful region.Tickets and More Info

Employable: Recognizing the contributions of persons with disabilities to our economy

The Government of Alberta recently released a report that measures the contribution to Alberta’s economy by persons with disabilities. In 2022 that figure was about $50 billion – or 13 percent of the province’s total. But the potential is even more and this talented labour pool is eager to find fulfilling roles in every sector of Alberta’s labour market.Read More

We had a blast at the Santa Clause Parade! More festivities to come...

The RMWB does an incredible job at hosting this whimsical event. Our team had a blast celebrating with the community. There's still so much to do this holiday season! Nominate Your Neighbor for their wonderful lights display and plan your holiday lights drive with this Holiday Lights Map.Nominate Neighbor and Holiday Lights Map

Anzac Business Resource Stand offers startup resources

We’ve grown strong digital channels that allow us to reach many residents in FMWB. As part of Startup YMM’s Indigenous and Rural Business Support Program, we have introduced our second Business Resource Stand (BRS) in Anzac at the Anzac Recreation Centre directly beside the guest services desk. We currently have one in Fort Chipewyan at the Makerspace (located within the high school). And there will soon be one installed at the Conklin Multiplex. Made possible through our partnership with the Regional Recreation Corporation of Wood Buffalo (RRCWB), this program aims to enhance accessibility of business resources and support of Indigenous and Rural communities in our region.Visit Startup YMM Website

Celebrate Christmas at Heritage Village!

Heritage Village is a Christmas must in FMWB. Bundle up with the family and go get in the holiday spirit. Festive activities including Santa visits, crafts and letter writing, an elf-scavenger-hunt, Christmas stories, Christmas movies, and free hot chocolate. Partake in the events this weekend! Visit their Facebook Page