Calgary Economic Development along with eight municipalities surrounding Calgary have launched a new Invest Greater Calgary (IGC) pilot to create a hub for economic activity, job growth, and investment opportunities.
The goal of the IGC is to help develop a stronger Calgary and area regional identity, by speaking with one voice to global investors.
The partnership is being hosted by Calgary Economic Development, alongside Calgary, Airdrie, Chestermere, Cochrane, Foothills County, High River, Okotoks, and Rockyview County.
“Invest Greater Calgary represents the future of economic development. This partnership shows the power of municipalities working as one to compete globally and act locally. By sharing data, aligning outreach and presenting a unified vision, we’re signalling to investors that the Calgary region is ready for bold ideas, major projects and long‑term investment,” said Bonnie Nunnari, Interim Lead of the IGC Secretariat, at Calgary Economic Development.
The IGC reflects a growing trend internationally for regional collaborations to be created.
“By pooling expertise and aligning economic priorities, municipalities can strengthen their position to draw investment. This includes better positioning the region as an industrial hub, where shared infrastructure, talent pipelines and supply chains are essential to long-term success,” said CED.
“IGC doesn’t replace local economic development—it strengthens it. Municipalities keep their own priorities while gaining shared data, regional marketing and broader investor reach. By collaborating instead of competing, they can pursue regionally significant opportunities and bring more investment home.”
The pilot program is set to focus on four key areas, including regional research and analysis, regional marketing and promotion, investor support, and program development.
As part of the IGC, municipalities are working together to create a shared business plan and a regional study.
Participating municipalities in the pilot have agreed to annual contributions defined by a cost-sharing formula that accounts for differences in population sizes and assessment values.
Funding has also been provided for the pilot program by the Government of Canada, and the Government of Alberta.
“The City of Airdrie is proud to be part of this collaborative partnership. Working together with our regional neighbours is essential to driving economic success. By joining forces to attract, retain, and grow businesses, we can better support investors and highlight the many advantages of doing business in the Calgary region,” said Sara Chamberlain, Team Leader of Economic Development for the City of Airdrie.
