The Alberta government is helping Red Deer create jobs and diversify its local economy through the Community and Regional Economic Support (CARES) program.
Four organizations in the Red Deer area will benefit from $248,250 in funding through the first CARES intake.
Red Deer-South MLA Barb Miller, made the announcement today on behalf of Economic Development and Trade Minister Deron Bilous.
“So much of Alberta’s economic strength and entrepreneurial drive is centered in our province’s smaller cities and towns,” said Bilous. “Last year, we launched the two-year CARES program to help communities with common interests but limited resources tackle economic development projects that they might not be able to on their own. Through these projects, local leaders are working together to grow and diversify our economy and make life better for Alberta families.”
The funding includes $10,250 to the City of Red Deer for the Downtown Residential Attraction Study; $50,000 to the Red Deer Visitor and Convention Bureau for the Central Alberta Tourism Alliance Accommodation Study; $88,000 to Central Alberta: Access Prosperity for their International Business Development Program and $100,000 to the Central Alberta Refugee Effort Committee for their Alberta Global Talent – Equip to Employ Immigrants program.
The projects will encourage higher-density residential development opportunities in downtown Red Deer, identify potential for fixed-roof and non-fixed roof accommodation, coach innovative local companies to do business on a global scale and help central Alberta employers attract and retain skilled immigrants.
“I am pleased with all the funding announcements today but especially with the allocation of funds to the Central Alberta Refugee Effort for their Equip to Employ Immigrants program,” said Miller. “I couldn’t be happier – the immigrant community in Red Deer is thriving and growing. Giving these new Albertans resources to help make a meaningful impact in the labour force and business community is going to bring results and continued economic growth to the region.”
Following the first CARES application intake in 2016, the program evaluated 88 applications from regions and communities, representing approximately $10.5 million in requested grants. These projects are among many throughout the province planned to receive support through the first intake of the CARES program.
The second intake for the CARES program will run from April 1st to May 31st. Eligibility criteria and more information on how to apply are available at www.jobsplan.alberta.ca.
– Fawcett
