Invest in Whitecourt

Welcome to Whitecourt, a vibrant and dynamic community, combines rural charm with urban amenities to create a pro-business climate, a thriving economy, and an exceptional quality of life. Whether you’re seeking investment opportunities, business growth, or a welcoming place to call home, Whitecourt has it all.

Whitecourt is strategically located 170 kilometres northwest of Edmonton, offering easy access to Alberta’s capital and its infrastructure. Just a two-hour drive from Edmonton International Airport, with over 60 domestic and international routes, Whitecourt ensures seamless connectivity. Positioned along Highway 43 and the Canamex Corridor, businesses benefit from major trade routes, a full-service local airport, and CN rail access, making it a logistics hub for diverse industries.

Whitecourt’s dynamic economy is built on strong resource markets in forestry, oil and gas, and emerging technologies. Major companies like Millar Western, Canfor, and Alberta Newsprint support the forestry sector, while the town’s proximity to Alberta’s energy corridor positions it as a regional hub for oil and gas services. Emerging projects in renewable energy and technology, such as carbon capture and bio-energy initiatives, showcase Whitecourt’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.

Whitecourt fosters a pro-business environment through strong municipal partnerships, incentive programs, and targeted support for new and existing businesses. Whitecourt’s economic development initiatives are designed to attract investment, encourage innovation, and ensure long-term success for all stakeholders.

Whitecourt is a youthful and prosperous community, with a median age of 34.8 years, noticeably younger than Canada’s average. Home to 10,300 residents, over 65% are in their prime working years. A strong median family income of $117,000, significantly higher than the provincial average, highlights economic strength. With a growing population and family-friendly environment, Whitecourt offers the energy, opportunity, and stability to live, work, and succeed.

Whitecourt boasts a young and highly skilled workforce, with a median age of just 35. The community has seen a 44% increase in apprentice registrations over the past year, reflecting its commitment to professional development and training. Residents are employed across key sectors such as manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and hospitality, ensuring businesses have access to top talent.

As the largest commercial hub between Edmonton and Grande Prairie, Whitecourt serves a trading area of over 50,000 people and a broader market of one million within a 90-minute drive. Its strategic location and market access make it a vital player in Alberta’s economy.

Whitecourt offers a high quality of life with modern recreational facilities, cultural attractions, and excellent health and education services. The Allan & Jean Millar Centre provides fitness, aquatic, and sports facilities, making it a hub for family and community activities. Residents benefit from a variety of healthcare services at the Whitecourt Healthcare Centre and local clinics, along with exceptional education options through public and Catholic schools. Affordable housing, vibrant events, and extensive parks and trails enhance Whitecourt’s appeal as an ideal place to live, work, and raise a family.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Whitecourt is a paradise. Known as the “Snowmobile Capital of Alberta”, it features hundreds of kilometres of trails, including the iconic Golden Triangle Trail. Summer activities include hiking, mountain biking, and tubing on the McLeod River, while winter brings opportunities for skiing, ice fishing, and hunting. Parks like Carson Pegasus Provincial Park showcase the natural beauty of the region year-round.

Experience Whitecourt’s exceptional blend of opportunity, connectivity, and quality of life. Whether you’re looking to invest, expand, or settle in, Whitecourt welcomes you to join its vibrant and thriving community. Contact our Economic Development Team at ecdev@whitecourt.ca or call the Town Office at 780-778-2273 to start your journey to success!

There are numerous government incentives, support programs and funding available to help set up and grow your business. Check out the Investment Incentive Directory for more details.