Highlights from the 2025 Business Breakfast and Economic Update

AIRDRIE’S 2025 BUSINESS BREAKFAST & ECONOMIC UPDATE: A CELEBRATION OF GROWTH, VISION, AND COMMUNITY SPIRIT

Airdrie’s 2025 Business Breakfast & Economic Update marked a major milestone - 15 years of bringing together the city’s brightest minds and boldest leaders. With over 200 entrepreneurs, business owners and community champions in attendance, the sold-out event was more than just a morning of coffee and conversation - it was a showcase of Airdrie’s momentum and its vision for the future.

City Leaders Share Vision for Airdrie’s Future: Growth, Connection and Resilience

Mayor Heather Spearman set the tone with a vision of intentional growth rooted in community connection. “You are the ones who make Airdrie the thriving community that it is,” she said, emphasizing that people remain at the heart of every decision.

City Manager Horacio Galanti shared highlights from the City’s Operational Plan, including expanded infrastructure funding, a 3D land use model and over $90 million in provincial support. These efforts support a population goal of 180,000 and smarter, more efficient service delivery.

Strategic Growth Manager Jamal Ramjohn outlined streamlined development processes and sustainability goals as Airdrie grew by 160 acres, with a population expected to reach 110,000 by 2029.

Community Services Director Brad Anderson introduced projects that enhance quality of life, such as the Inspire facility, new recreation spaces and regional parks - all designed to foster wellness and connection.

Capital Projects Team Leader Adam Carroll detailed infrastructure upgrades, including a new fire station, traffic improvements and expanded wastewater and road systems to support long-term growth and safety.

Together, these initiatives reflect Airdrie’s commitment to building a connected, resilient and people-focused future.

2025 Economic Update from Sara Chamberlain, Team Lead, Airdrie Economic Development

Airdrie’s population surpassed 90,000 in 2025, with steady growth and a youthful workforce. Construction investment reached $588 million in 2024, including record residential spending and major public projects.

Nearly 1,400 housing permits were issued, with a shift back to single detached homes. Non-residential development included Inspire, school expansions and private sector projects like Fortis Alberta and Global Citrus Fruit. Despite adding 200,000 sq ft of space, vacancy remains low, creating challenges for expanding businesses.

The City welcomed 77 net new businesses, creating over 600 jobs. Home-based enterprises employ nearly 4,000 people, contributing to Airdrie’s estimated 27,000 jobs.

Retail spending totals $1.9 billion annually, but only 47 per cent is captured locally. A consumer survey of over 800 responses showed 68 per cent shop locally weekly, driven by convenience and community support. Residents expressed interest in a movie theatre, upscale dining and fashion retail. The City is working with partners to boost local shopping and investment, supported by provincial grant funding.

Industrial attraction remains a priority, with inquiries for 1,500 acres of land. Airdrie joined the Invest Greater Calgary partnership to strengthen regional efforts and address the shortage of shovel-ready sites.

Downtown revitalization continues with Inspire’s opening, incentive programs and the Community Revitalization Levy, which has raised $1.2 million for public space improvements.
The Economic Development team remains committed to supporting Airdrie’s business community and fostering a vibrant, resilient economy.

Economic Realities & Opportunities: Keynote by Mark Parsons

ATB Financial’s Chief Economist, Mark Parsons, delivered a compelling keynote on the global and local economic landscape. He described a “new era of protectionism,” shaped by trade wars and shifting international agreements.

Canada, while benefiting from trade deals, still faces sector-specific tariffs. Alberta, however, is a standout - adding a million people in just over a decade, thanks to affordability and opportunity.

Parsons emphasized the need for Canada to diversify exports, accelerate major projects and focus on domestic opportunities. With Alberta branching into hydrogen, food manufacturing and data centers, the province is proving that economic resilience is possible beyond oil and gas.

The 2025 Airdrie Business Breakfast was more than a celebration - it was a rallying call for smart growth, community connection and bold economic vision. As Airdrie continues to evolve, one thing remains clear: its heart beats strongest through the people who live, work and lead here.

Airdrie Economic Development is proud to host this annual event every November.