Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS)

Building Westlock's Economic Future

The Town of Westlock is pleased to announce the development of a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) — a forward-looking initiative designed to guide Westlock’s economic growth, resilience, and prosperity over the next five years from 2025 to 2030.

The CEDS will provide a coordinated and actionable roadmap to strengthen the local business environment, attract investment, support workforce development, diversify the economy, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents and visitors. This initiative reflects Council and Administration’s commitment to proactive planning, broad community engagement, and sustainable economic development.

What is the CEDS?

The Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) is a widely recognized planning tool used by municipalities and regions across North America. It will allow Westlock to:

Assess current economic conditions and market trends
Identify community strengths, challenges, and opportunities
Engage businesses, residents, and regional stakeholders
Develop a clear, evidence-based strategy with measurable goals
Provide an implementation framework to guide public and private investment.

The CEDS will focus on the following target sectors:

Agriculture and agri-business
Manufacturing and light industry
Healthcare and wellness services
Tourism and hospitality
Potential academic partnerships

Project Timeline and Phases

The Westlock CEDS will be developed in four steps between May and October 2025, with a planned launch in November 2025.

Step 1: Explore Perceptions (May 2025)

Purpose: Establish a clear, data-informed understanding of Westlock’s current economic landscape and gather insights from local stakeholders.

View or download the Socio-Economic Benchmark Report.

Step 2: Future Scenarios and Implications (June–August 2025)

Purpose: Explore future scenarios, assess potential opportunities and challenges, and define a shared community vision.

Step 3: CEDS Draft (September 2025)

Purpose: Translate research and engagement results into an actionable draft strategy that aligns with local priorities.

Step 4: Strategic Roadmap (October 2025)

Purpose: Deliver a complete and polished strategy with practical tools to guide implementation and measure progress.

Step 5: Next Steps & Launch (November 2025)

Purpose: Approval and endorsement by Town Council, and implementation of action plan.

Community Engagement

Community engagement is a cornerstone of this project. Throughout the process, residents, businesses, community organizations, students, and regional partners will be invited to participate through surveys, interviews, and workshops. This approach will ensure that the final strategy reflects the needs, aspirations, and priorities of the Westlock community.

Socio-Economic Benchmark Report

More Connected

Project updates, event announcements, survey opportunities, draft documents, and engagement invitations will be shared regularly on this page and through the Town’s social media and other communication channels.

Together, we can chart a course for a resilient, competitive, and prosperous Westlock.