Why FMWB

Economic Outlook

As an ambitious community, our doors are open to ambitious innovators, entrepreneurs and growing businesses. We’ll welcome you here and help create opportunities for your success. If you want to make something happen, this is the place.

ECONOMIC OUTLOOK & FUTURE

Whether it’s this year, or 30 years from now, the economic outlook in Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo is stable. And that’s because our sustaining capital remains stable. And so does the long-term oil sands outlook. We are also working on new business models, new ways to partner and work together, and championing energy transformation.

A great example of this is Suncor’s partnership with eight Indigenous communities from Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo. They’ve worked together to buy 15% of the Northern Courier Pipeline Limited Partnership.

The competitiveness of our region stands out. That’s because we are nurturing some of the best talent in the world, both in industry and in our communities. Partnerships flourish—together we uncover new pathways forward.

Aerial view of Fort McMurray in the summer

Infrastructure

Our regional success is on purpose. It is a direct reflection of the innovative industries that operate here. For their success to happen, key infrastructure needs to be in place. We are actively cultivating the right mix of roads, highways, rail and air transport systems—including an international airport—along with power and other critical supports. We can’t always predict the future, but we can build the roads to get us there.

LIFE ON THE HIGHWAYS

Highways 63 and 881 continue to be top priorities in our region. In March 2020, the Government of Alberta committed $50 million in upgrades to Highway 881. These upgrades will include passing lanes, a new staging and rest area, improved intersections and roadside turnouts.

Key Sectors

Our industries are as rich and diverse as the landscape we inhabit.

Oil Sands

The oil sands industry is a cornerstone of the Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo economy. It’s also a driving force for Canadian prosperity.

CleanTech & Environmental

Our region’s commitment to innovative solutions for the environment is spurring on advancements as we move towards our shared goal of being net zero by 2050.

TOURISM

From dancing Northern Lights to thrilling landscapes, festivals, restaurants and activities, our home—and its big backyard—is yours to explore.

RETAIL & SMALL BUSINESSES

Those who live in Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo love to spend in Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo. Retail and small business in our region is booming.

AGRICULTURE, FISHING & FORESTRY

From the shores of our mighty rivers and lakes to the plains and forests beyond, agriculture, fishing and forestry are thriving industries in the Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo region.

CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT & CONTRACTORS

There’s always work to be done in Alberta’s north. We’ve got the right equipment and skilled people to make it happen.

INNOVATION

From ESG performance to community initiatives, alliances and beyond—innovation and a shared determination to build better live here.

Contact

WE ARE NATURALLY ENRICHED, GLOBALLY COMPETITIVE.

Contact us about the unique opportunities available in Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo.