For more than 60 years, Alberta’s government has used the Northern Alberta Development Council (NADC) to strengthen and develop northern Alberta and its contributions to the provincial economy. The province’s economic growth and prosperity could not be achieved without the work done in northern Alberta to develop natural resources and diversify the economy. A recent report submitted to Alberta’s government by the NADC highlights opportunities to further grow Alberta’s north and ensure it continues its role as the economic engine of Canada.

“Northern Alberta plays a vital role in Alberta’s economy, which is why our government is keen to see it succeed. We appreciate the hard work of every member on the NADC and each contributor to the Northern Development Report. Working together with the NADC and our northern partners, we can ensure the region’s contributions remain a vital part of our province’s economic success.”

Joseph Schow, Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration

“Alberta’s government is committed to strengthening northern communities through strategic investments in post-secondary education and health care. By supporting students and expanding training opportunities, we’re helping ensure more professionals choose to live, work and build their futures in the north.”

Myles McDougall, Minister of Advanced Education

In development of the Northern Development Report, the NADC engaged with municipalities, chambers of commerce, economic development organizations, First Nations, Métis communities, small businesses, post-secondary institutions and business organizations. Discussions included topics such as natural resources, agriculture, tourism and recreation, nuclear energy development and future opportunities for the NADC. Challenges were also discussed and identified, leading to several recommendations, all of which Alberta’s government accepts in principle.

Recommendations in the report include:

  • Redefining the boundary of northern Alberta (Northern Alberta Development Council boundary) by considering the characteristics typical of northern communities.
  • Developing the workforce by enhancing marketing and advocacy opportunities to attract skilled workers and investment, and increasing access to high-quality education and training, particularly for Indigenous learners and youth.
  • Supporting northern recognition and investment through creating a comprehensive strategy to advance northern development.
  • Strengthening economic corridors, infrastructure, connectivity, transportation and utilities by continuing to invest in infrastructure and addressing affordability challenges, including electricity distribution and transmission costs.

“With an abundance of natural resources, the development of Alberta’s north will play a crucial role in ensuring the long-term prosperity of Albertans. Investments in projects like Highway 686 will open opportunities for industry to support growth and future economic corridor developments in northern Alberta.”

Devin Dreeshen, Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors

“I would like to thank all the northern Albertans who took the time to participate in last year’s northern development engagement sessions. Your input has been instrumental in shaping the recommendations in the Northern Development Report, ensuring they reflect the true priorities, challenges and opportunities of the region. Together, we are building a stronger, more vibrant north.”

Tany Yao, parliamentary secretary for Small Business and Northern Development, NADC chair and MLA for Fort McMurray-Wood Buffalo

Through Budget 2025, Alberta’s government invested almost $5 billion to strengthen Alberta’s northern communities and improve economic development, education, transportation, health and more.

“Throughout our engagement, we heard many perspectives from across the northern region. However, the one common theme is ensuring that the NADC continues to support the growth and contributions of the north to Alberta’s economy. We look forward to further strengthening northern Alberta, and ensuring it remains a place of economic opportunity.”

Melonie Doucette, NADC vice-chair  

Quick facts

  • The Northern Alberta Development Council has six members:
    • Tany Yao, chair, NADC and MLA for Fort McMurray
    • Craig Copeland, mayor, City of Cold Lake
    • Melonie Doucette, director, Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Economic Development and Tourism
    • Tony Shmyruk, dean of Skilled Trades, Fairview Campus, Northwestern Polytechnic
    • Terry Ungarian, reeve, County of Northern Lights, councillor, Ward 6 (Hotchkiss/Hawk Hills)
    • Reva Jaycox, councillor, East Prairie Metis Settlement
  • Other initiatives aimed at supporting Alberta’s north include:
    • Investing $9 million over the next three years through the Northern and Regional Economic Development Program for projects to spur economic growth.
    • Allocating more than $1.5 million per year over three years for the Northern Alberta Development Bursary to attract and retain skilled professionals to grow and diversify northern economies.

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