WELCOME TO WETASKIWIN
Dear New Business Owner,
Welcome to Wetaskiwin, The City We Share! We are happy that you decided to locate your business in our City. Wetaskiwin is a diverse and vibrant community with cultural, institutional, and entertainment amenities that often come as a surprise to first time visitors, considering the size of our community.
At the heart of healthy and vibrant communities is a strong business climate that serves the needs of our diverse population. We look forward to seeing your success as you bring your unique energy and talent to our community.
Let me be the first to welcome you to our community on behalf of City Council and Staff. Welcome to the City We Share.
Sincerely,
Mayor Joe Branco
MEET YOUR COUNCIL
Pictured left to right: Councillor Mark Elder, Councillor Laura White, Councillor Dean Billingsley, Councillor Karen Aberle, Councillor Wendy Hoyle, Mayor Joe Branco, Councillor Wayne Neilson
Welcome to Wetaskiwin: The City We Share
The City of Wetaskiwin, located just 35 minutes south of Edmonton International Airport, is one of Alberta’s oldest cities with a proud history and a bright future. Known as “the place where peace was made,” Wetaskiwin is a growing community of over 13,000 residents that blends small-city charm with big opportunity.
With affordable housing, a strong local workforce, excellent schools, modern healthcare, and a thriving arts and culture scene, Wetaskiwin offers both residents and businesses a high quality of life. Our historic downtown, diverse local economy, and supportive business environment make Wetaskiwin an ideal place to start, grow, or invest in a business.
Why Start a Business in Wetaskiwin?
Strategic Location: Easy access to Edmonton, Calgary, and international markets via Highway 2 and Edmonton International Airport.
Affordable Costs: Competitive land, housing, and operating expenses compared to larger urban centres.
Skilled Workforce: A growing population supported by marketing, immigration streams and local training opportunities through NorQuest College.
Supportive Community: City-led programs, business networks, and collaborative partnerships designed to help entrepreneurs succeed.
Quality of Life: A welcoming, family-friendly city with strong schools, healthcare, and recreational amenities.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT MEET
Our team provides complementary and confidential support services for individuals and businesses interested in locating, growing or starting a business in Wetaskiwin.
Single point of contact for businesses interested in locating to Wetaskiwin; Provide advice and resources for business support and success including the Business Checklist and Business Visitation Program; Assist in site selection, navigate development and building approvals; Develop partnerships to promote, support and sustain economic prosperity; and Create programs and initiatives to support the business community such as the Façade Improvement Grant.
STRATEGIC PLAN 2023/2024
Committing to the community vision and delivering on council’s strategic plan, the 2023/2024 Economic Development Strategy will focus on:
Land
Investment Attraction
Business Development
Downtown Vitality
Workforce Development
Tourism
Working
BUSINESS SUPPORT
The City of Wetaskiwin and its community partners offer a wide range of programs and resources to support your business. Whether you are starting or expanding, you will find assistance with grants, funding, and incentive opportunities, as well as guidance on business development applications, permits, and licenses. Networking opportunities, community support, and resources for attracting and retaining employees are also available to help your business succeed.
Starting a Business Checklist: We know that starting your own business can be an intimidating process, and we are committed to working alongside you every step of the way on the road to business success.
Business Visitation Program: Through the Business Visitation Program, we will learn more about your organization, explore your areas of concern and target areas where we may be able to help.
Monthly Economic Development E-Newsletter: Stay up to date with the latest news from the city, business celebrations, resources and supports. To sign-up, visit: http://www.wetaskiwin.ca/875/Newsletter
MARKETING IS KEY
Grand Opening Celebration
Launching a new business or marking an anniversary is the perfect time to create excitement and connect with the community. To book your grand opening or anniversary event, contact raelene coffey@wetaskiwin ca
Your checklist to making a great first impression:
• Host a ribbon cutting
• Get listed in the City’s Business Directory
• Share your story on social media and with local press (Pipestone Flyer and Wetaskiwin Times)
Get Digital
Your customers are online, make sure they can find you From your Google Business Profile to your website and social media, a strong digital presence is key.
Business Link’s Digital Marketing Program offers free support, including help with Google Business setup, website development, social media strategy, and expert-led webinars. Businesses can join four free virtual sessions and access ongoing training on topics like ecommerce and customer engagement. Learn more: Business Link Digital Marketing Program
Chamber of Commerce Support provides one-on-one strategies and learning events tailored to local entrepreneurs. Contact Amber Cook at acook@yourchamber.ca for details.
MARKETING TIPS
Google Business Profile (Google My Business) Set-Up
Your Google Business Profile is a free tool that helps customers find you on Google Search and Maps.
How to Set Up Your Profile:
1.Create a Gmail Account: You need a Gmail email to set up your profile Suggested to use your business name in the email.
2.Sign In: Go to https://www.google.com/business and sign in with your business Gmail.
3.Create Your Profile: Enter your business name, choose your main business category, and add your service area if needed.
4.Add Your Location: Enter your physical address if customers visit you. If not, select the option for delivering goods or services.
5.Add Contact Details: Include your phone number and website. If you don’t have a website, you can use your Facebook page link.
6.Verify Your Business: Google will ask you to verify by postcard, phone, or email. Complete this step to activate your listing.
7. Improve Your Profile: Upload a logo and photos, add business hours, list your services, write a short description, and post updates to increase visibility
Business Facebook Page Set-Up
A Facebook Business Page helps customers find your services, contact you, and follow your updates A business page also allows people to follow, tag and mention your business
How to Set Up Your Page
1.Create Your Page: Go to https://www.facebook.com/pages/create and select “Business or Brand.”
2.Enter Your Information: Add your business name, category, and a short description.
3 Brand Your Page: Upload your logo as the profile photo and choose a cover image
4 Add Your Details: Include your address, hours, website, phone number, and email Add a call-to-action button such as Call Now or Message.
5.Add Content: Post 3–6 updates and pin a “Welcome” post.
6.Turn On Messaging: Set up automated greetings, FAQs, and appointment options if needed.
7.Invite People to Follow: Invite contacts to like your page and share it in local groups where allowed.
Local Newspaper & Media Contacts
Getting featured locally builds awareness and credibility, especially for new businesses.
Wetaskiwin & Region Local Newspapers Contact for Print Advertising: Wetaskiwin Times Email: skhedekar@postmedia.com
Wetaskiwin Pipestone Flyer Email: daren.gawron@centralweb.ca
Partner with Neighbouring Businesses
Leave business cards or brochures
Offer cross-promotions (e.g., “Show your receipt from to save 10% here!”)
KEY CONTACTS
As a business owner there are steps to take to ensure you are operating your business legally. That means requesting the appropriate permits and licenses as well as be aware of the City of Wetaskiwin's By-Laws
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
The Planning and Development Department reviews and processes applications related to to development. Follow the links below for more information on development services.
Business License: The City of Wetaskiwin requires all new and existing businesses to obtain and maintain a business licence in order to operate within the City.
Compliance Certificates: A Compliance Certificate is a confirmation from the City of Wetaskiwin that the location of the building(s) on a site complies with the requirements of the Land Use Bylaw.
Land Use Bylaw and Zoning Amendments (Rezoning): The Land Use Bylaw regulates how and where development happens through Land Use Districts, or zones.
Development, Sign or Building Permits : Developments and signs required approval through city permits.
Contact
780.361.4432 | permits@wetaskiwin.ca
SERVICES AND UTILITIES
CONNECTIONS ARE IMPORTANT
Learn more about our business support services and community partners. We can assist you with your business needs or answer any questions you may have.
BUSINESS SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS
EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS
Moyra Kennedy
Workforce Consultant
Government of Alberta
moyra kennedy@gov ab ca Horizons Centre supports individuals with disabilities to prepare and find employment www.horizonscentre.com
Directions for Wellness: Helping employers find the right people to fill vacant positions www.dfwi.ca
LEARNING FOR BUSINESSES
Stay on top of key trends, technologies, best practices and access resources by signing up for the City of Wetaskiwin Economic Development E-Newsletter: www.wetaskiwin.ca/875/Newsletter
