Why Invest Here? The Northern Sunrise County Business Advantage

Investment Attraction

New business investment is key to creating employment opportunities and enhancing prosperity in Northern Sunrise County (NSC). Our mission is to attract new investments that align with our community's needs and growth objectives, particularly within the Sunrise Gateway Business Park, which focuses on non-industrial business opportunities.

Key Initiatives:

Sunrise Gateway Business Park Strategy: We have conducted a strategy study to position the Sunrise Gateway Business Park as a hub for non-industrial businesses. The study confirmed the park’s potential to support such businesses, and our next step is to engage with potential investors. We will dedicate significant time and marketing resources to attract new businesses to this area.
Business Meetings and Socials: We coordinate and host meetings and business socials to explore expansion opportunities within the Sunrise Gateway Business Park and other areas in Northern Sunrise County.
Trade and Investment Viability: We assess the viability of trade and investment opportunities to attract new businesses or industries to the region.
Collaboration with Partners: We work closely with partners such as the Peace Region Economic Development Alliance (PREDA), Northern Transportation Advocacy Bureau (NTAB), and other alliances. We also offer tours of the county for foreign and new industries to showcase the potential of Northern Sunrise County.
Fostering a Business-Friendly Environment: By collaborating with local municipalities, industry stakeholders, and businesses, we aim to create a supportive and business-friendly environment in NSC.
Business Ready Plan for Sunrise Gateway Business Park: We are developing a business-ready plan for new investors, offering affordable land and essential services, such as high-speed internet, to ensure a smooth start for new businesses.

Grants Available:

Entrepreneur Grant: This program provides County residents or existing County businesses with access to a business coach for mentorship and assistance in developing a business case for development, diversification, and growth within Northern Sunrise County.
Value-Added Agricultural and Tourism Grant: This $20,000 grant offers financial assistance to landowners looking to develop or expand their business in the value-added or tourism industry. Two $20,000 grants are available each year, with an intake period from May 15 to June 15. For more information, contact Lynn.

Contact Information: For more details or to discuss investment opportunities, please reach out to:

Lynn Florence
Economic Development Officer
780-625-3288
lflorence@northernsunrise.net

Assist in presenting a business case for locating in Northern Sunrise County

Development and Building Permit Support Services

Northern Sunrise County is committed to supporting businesses throughout the development and building permit process. Our services include:

Linkage to Development and Building Permit Process: We provide clear guidance and resources to help you navigate the development and building permit process in Northern Sunrise County.
Identification of Issues and Needs: We work closely with you to identify any issues or needs, and provide background information to facilitate a smooth development process.
Assistance with Development Permits: Our team offers direct assistance with obtaining development permits, ensuring that you have the support needed to move your project forward.
No Business License Required: Operating a business in Northern Sunrise County does not require a business license, simplifying the setup process.
Joint Meetings Coordination: We arrange joint meetings between County representatives and business clients to discuss projects, address concerns, and streamline communication.

For more information or assistance with your development needs, please contact the Economic Development Office. We're here to help make your business journey in Northern Sunrise County as smooth as possible.

Market research data for business plans, including

Work-Sharing Program

The Work-Sharing Program is an adjustment program offered by the Government of Canada designed to help employers avoid layoffs during temporary reductions in normal business activities that are beyond the employer’s control. This program allows employers to retain skilled employees during challenging times by sharing available work among staff, with income support provided through Employment Insurance.

For more information on eligibility and how to apply, visit the Work-Sharing Program page on the Government of Canada’s website.

Alberta Innovates

Alberta Innovates enhances research capacity, fosters an innovation culture, builds talent supply, and develops research infrastructure across the province. We offer competitive funding opportunities and support that help clients move ideas from concept to commercialization or practical use.

Our industry growth funding and grant programs are designed to address the industry's demand for practical solutions to their most pressing challenges. By providing these solutions, Alberta Innovates plays a key role in establishing, sustaining, and growing industries within Alberta.

For more information on available funding and grant programs, visit the Alberta Innovates Funding and Grants page.

Canadian Agricultural Partnership

In Alberta, the Canadian Agricultural Partnership is a federal-provincial initiative representing a $406 million investment in strategic programs and initiatives for the agricultural sector. Developed in consultation with stakeholders, these programs are designed to support the industry under five key themes:

Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change
Products, Market Growth, and Diversification
Science and Research
Risk Management
Public Trust

This partnership aims to enhance the competitiveness, innovation, and resilience of Alberta’s agricultural sector.

For more information on the programs and funding opportunities, visit the Canadian Agricultural Partnership page.

Agriculture Financial Services Corportation has statistical data on annual crop yields in Alberta.

Alberta Enterprise Corporation

Alberta Enterprise Corporation promotes the growth of Alberta’s venture capital industry by investing in venture capital funds that finance early-stage technology companies. Our focus is on funds that demonstrate a strong commitment to Alberta, including maintaining a full-time presence in the province.

Beyond providing capital, we actively support Alberta’s venture capital ecosystem by connecting investors, entrepreneurs, and experienced technology executives who share our vision of building a bright and innovative Alberta.

For more information, visit the Alberta Enterprise Corporation website.

Innovation Employment Grant

The Innovation Employment Grant encourages economic growth by supporting small and medium-sized businesses that invest in research and development (R&D). Businesses can receive a grant worth up to 20% of qualifying expenditures. For more information, visit the Innovation Employment Grant page.

Tax Incentives

Northern Living Allowance: Businesses and residents qualify for Canada's Northern Living Allowance, providing additional financial benefits.
2023 Tax Rates in Northern Sunrise County:
- Non-residential tax rate: 13%
- Residential tax rate: 3%
- Farm tax rate: 7.6%
Sunrise Gateway Business Park Tax Incentive for New Development:
- 75% off non-residential municipal tax for the first year
- 50% off non-residential municipal tax for the second year
- 25% off non-residential municipal tax for the third year

Transportation Infrastructure

Highways and Roads: Northern Sunrise County is well-served by key north-south and east-west highways. Highway 2 is the primary route, connecting the County to the Town of Peace River, Grande Prairie, and Edmonton. In 2017, Hwy 2 saw daily traffic counts of 3,372 commuting passenger vehicles and 1,038 transportation trucks.
Air Traffic Network: The Peace River Airport, located minutes from the Town of Peace River, offers charter services.
Rail Connection: The CN rail network services Northern Sunrise County with access points in the Village of Nampa and two transloading stations in Reno and off Highway 683.

Utilities

Northern Sunrise County, the Village of Nampa, Lubicon Lake Band #453, and Woodland Cree First Nation have partnered to build a new energy-efficient regional water system aimed at delivering safe, reliable drinking water across the region. The County also offers abundant water resources, natural gas availability, and larger electricity providers with capacity reserves suitable for major users.

Community Experience and Strengths

Spectacular Scenery and Wildlife: Enjoy breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife, alongside the rich cultural heritage of Francophone, Ukrainian, and Aboriginal communities.
Welcoming Communities: The County offers a variety of recreational opportunities including public parks, fishing lakes, hiking trails, outdoor ice rinks, and maintained campgrounds.
Facilities: The area boasts well-maintained community halls, centers with playgrounds, co-op housing in St. Isidore with low rentals for seniors, and a 9-hole Heart River Golf Course.
Strategic Location: A population of 17,000 resides within a 45-minute drive, with a well-developed highway system and nearly 5,000 vehicles passing daily on Highways 2 and 688.
Economic Development Support: Northern Sunrise County has an established Economic Development Committee and Economic Development Officer dedicated to fostering a business-friendly environment and sustainable economic growth.
Council Commitment: The County Council is deeply committed to building a sustainable economic future, with positive feedback from existing businesses and strong partnerships with regional municipalities.

Why Invest in Northern Sunrise County?

Northern Sunrise County is renowned in northwest Alberta for its highly desirable quality of life, vibrant and welcoming communities, and expansive countryside. We invite new partners, investors, and entrepreneurs to discover the many opportunities for business development, supported by a robust network of resources and incentives.

Here's why...

Northern Sunrise County offers a diverse and robust economic environment with numerous advantages for businesses and investors. Here are the key reasons to consider investing in our region:

Diverse Economic Portfolio: The County boasts a strong and diverse economic base supported by multiple pillars, including energy, agriculture, forestry, and tourism.
Rich Natural Resources: Abundant natural resources such as natural gas, natural gas liquids, oil, lumber, and fertile agricultural land provide ample opportunities for growth and development.
Skilled Workforce: Northern Sunrise County and its surrounding areas offer a diverse and skilled workforce, with opportunities for training and development to meet the needs of various industries.
High-Speed Internet Access: The Sunrise Gateway Business Park is equipped with high-speed internet, ensuring businesses have the connectivity they need to operate efficiently.
Fully Serviced Lots: Lots in the Sunrise Gateway Business Park are fully serviced with power, natural gas, water, and sewer infrastructure, making it easier for businesses to set up and thrive.
Excellent Land Availability: The County offers a variety of land parcels at extremely competitive prices, making it an attractive option for new developments.
Business-Friendly Environment: A supportive and business-friendly Council is dedicated to fostering a positive business climate and assisting companies in their growth and success.
Strategic Location: With 17,000 people within a 45-minute drive, Northern Sunrise County is strategically located near other agricultural municipalities, including the MD of Smoky, Big Lakes County, MD of Peace, Northern Lights County, and Mackenzie County.

Northern Sunrise County provides a prime location, rich resources, and a supportive community for businesses looking to grow and succeed. Join us and discover the vast opportunities available in this vibrant and dynamic region.

Sunrise Gateway Business Park

Alberta Advantage...

Alberta offers a range of benefits that make it a prime location for businesses and investors. Here are some key advantages of operating in Alberta:

Lowest Corporate Tax Rate in Canada: Alberta has the lowest corporate tax rate in the country at 23%, making it an attractive destination for businesses seeking to maximize their profitability.
No Additional Taxes: Alberta does not impose payroll taxes, sales taxes, or capital taxes, providing significant savings for businesses.
Red Tape Reduction: The province is committed to cutting red tape and regulations, saving time and supporting job creators by simplifying processes and reducing bureaucratic barriers.
Rat-Free Province: Alberta is the only rat-free province in Canada, thanks to effective pest control measures that protect agriculture and urban areas alike.
Support for Agriculture: Alberta funds agricultural departments that work closely with all landowners to eliminate noxious weeds, crop pests, and diseases, ensuring healthy and productive land.
Global Market Access: Alberta has access to 51 foreign countries through 14 free trade agreements, covering a market area of over 1.5 billion potential consumers. This extensive access to international markets provides businesses with unparalleled opportunities for growth and expansion.

With these advantages, Alberta offers a business-friendly environment, a supportive regulatory framework, and access to vast markets, making it an ideal location for companies looking to thrive and expand.