FMWBEDT Newsletter

What's on the horizon for the FMWB economy?

I’m looking forward to several upcoming events to get a deeper perspective on the regional economy. The Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce AGM is tonight, FMCA Construction Industry Golf Classic is Friday, and BILD Wood Buffalo’s AGM is June 5. Our own SiteLink Forum will host international site selectors and business leaders from June 4 -6. These events offer insights on how the Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo economy is responding to tariffs, interest rates, population shifts and other forces.

All these factors are reasons why the RMWB Census 2025 is so important. The data from the census helps to illustrate the opportunities in our region. Once combined with economic data from the Government of Alberta, Statistics Canada, and private sector sources we highlight market demand to drive new investment. If you’re an RMWB resident you can get started on your census here.

The economic dashboard is showing generally positive signs. Residential real estate inventory is almost under three months of supply with prices continuing their gradual improvement. Rental prices remain among the most affordable in the country, delivering a valuable incentive for new residents to move into the region. And regional unemployment rates remain below provincial and national levels. We have work to do – construction investment is low and tourism benchmarks are still recovering. Our team is focused on initiatives and efforts to grow our region.

We shared highlights of these efforts during Economic Development Week from May 12 -16. Open houses focused on our specific business units each day and provided a forum for the public to ask questions or share feedback. Thank you to everyone who attended!

Lisa Sweet | Interim CEO

Veterinary Opportunities in FMWB

Our team is working to attract more veterinary care to Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo. We know that factors like veterinary services contribute to quality of life, and we want to make sure that our pets have access to the best care.

Through our digital campaign and landing page we’re reaching people across the country – inviting them to relocate to FMWB. Want to help? Share the landing page with your network and help us to spread the word about the benefits of starting a practice in FMWB.

Thoughts or feedback? We’re always listening. Send us an email – we’d love to hear from you.

[Virtual Info Sessions] WISP Employer Information Session

Over the past two years the Workforce Immigration & Support Program (WISP) has been Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo’s approach to the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) Rural Renewal Stream. Hundreds of local employers who have faced challenges filling labour needs have gained a valuable edge in international recruitment and have helped to attract and retain skilled talent in our region.

We’re making improvements to the WISP based on feedback from AAIP, program partners, and employers. Employers who are interested in applying for WISP endorsements should attend our upcoming online Employer Information Sessions on May 22 and June 9 at 11:00am.

Regional strength in a softer national market

FMWB remains in a stronger labour market position than key comparisons. Unemployment is below the provincial (7.1%) and national (6.9%) averages. This is in line with long-term labour trends for the region.

Gain insights on local real estate, hotels, rentals, traffic, and more with our economic dashboard - updated monthly. View Dashboard

Launch Wood Buffalo is a collaborative annual entrepreneurship conference by BrainSTEM Alliance, Keyano College, and Wood Buffalo Regional Innovation Network. The Wood Buffalo region is a key contributor to the Canadian economy and is known for the implementation of new technologies within the Oil Sands. Wood Buffalo has much more to offer, and this event will act as a ‘launchpad’ for new ideas and innovations in our region. Learn more

[Updated] Eight Funding Opportunities for Indigenous Entrepreneurs

The 2025-26 application intake for the Indigenous Reconciliation Initiative is now open - it closes September 15, 2025. Read more about this funding program and several others that are seeking applications. Learn more

Wonder Valley - A $70 Billion Development

Deals this big don’t happen overnight. Kyle Reiling has been moving the Greenview Industrial Gateway (GIG) forward for over a decade. The announcement that it would be the home of Wonder Valley, the world’s largest data centre complex, caught global business attention and underscored the work of Kyle and his team. Join us at Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo SiteLink Forum from June 4 – 6 to hear insights on the GIG project. Learn More

Welcoming Technology Investments in FMWB

Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo has shovel-ready sites for data center projects. High quality connectivity paired with cool-climate savings and reliable energy are a smart investment. There’s a compelling case for building data centres in FMWB.
Data cetres are just one of our investment attraction efforts. Our team is working to bring new projects to FMWB and grow our economy. New commercial developments are coming – stay tuned for more announcements in 2025. Learn more

Friendly faces are smart business

Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo is a friendly, welcoming community – and that shows in our customer service. We’re always excited to hear stories of customer service heroes!
To help your team to succeed at customer service we’re sharing six actions you can take. Read more

RMWB News: Canada Day float registration is open

Showcase your community spirit with a float or walking group in the Canada Day Parade on July 1 at 10:30 a.m. Whether a thriving local business, a social nonprofit, sports team or community group, it’s a great way to connect with residents and be part of the fun.

Hello Summer Festival 2025 at MacDonald Island Park! Get Tickets Today

Get ready for Fort McMurray’s two-day music festival at MIP! Set against the backdrop of long, sunlit evenings, Hello Summer will take over SMS Equipment Stadium at MIP on July 5 and 6, 2025 offering an unforgettable experience of music, food, and fun. Come for the music, stay for the vibes - and make memories that’ll last all summer long. Full Event Details and Tickets