(Cochrane, AB) — Following the February 2, 2026, Committee of the Whole meeting, the Town of Cochrane is getting ready to launch public engagement for its Economic Development Strategy (2026–2036), a 10-year plan to guide how Cochrane grows its economy, supports local business and attracts new opportunity.
Cochrane is focused on strengthening the local economy by supporting business retention and expansion, attracting new employers, and encouraging long-term investment to provide and sustain economic opportunities for all Cochranites.
This strategy is intended to help identify the actions and priorities that can position Cochrane as business-ready, competitive, and resilient over the next decade.
“I’m excited to launch the community engagement phase of Cochrane’s new Economic Development Strategy, building directly on the momentum of Envision Cochrane 2050 and its Economic Vitality vision,” said Mark Krysinski, Director, Community Growth – Development & Infrastructure Services. “This work moves us from long-term aspiration into action, translating our shared vision into a clear, actionable strategy for Cochrane’s economy that prioritizes activities with the greatest potential to create economic opportunity for Cochranites.”
The Town is inviting input from residents, business owners, employers and key partners to better understand Cochrane’s economic strengths and the opportunities; where lies the greatest impact in supporting local businesses and attracting future investment.
Engagement opportunities will run from March through June 2026 and will include:
- A community-wide survey
- Pop-up conversations at local events this spring
- Targeted discussions with business and community interest holder groups
- A community open house planned for May
“Our engagement approach is intentionally tailored to different interest holder groups, from residents and small businesses to major employers, Indigenous partners, and regional collaborators,” said Krysinski. “By meeting people where they are and listening deeply, we’re ensuring fulsome, meaningful input to help craft a 10-year strategy that creates economic opportunity, resilience, and shared prosperity for all Cochranites.”
What the Town hears throughout this process will help inform the final Economic Development Strategy and future business-support and investment priorities.
To stay informed and participate, residents are encouraged to register on Let’s Talk Cochrane to receive updates when participation opportunities open and when the survey goes live.
A summary of community input will be shared later in the process to demonstrate how feedback helped shape the final Strategy.
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MEDIA CONTACT
Communications
403-851-2503
communications@cochrane.ca