Participating businesses can look forward to two key deliverables: an industry profile and a comprehensive state of the industry report. Our inaugural phase will focus on aerospace, aviation and defence, as well as manufacturing, distribution and warehousing, with future studies planned for industries like agriculture.
Business Retention and Expansion
Industry Specific
At Medicine Hat Economic Development, we believe in the resilience of our community and the strength of our businesses.
We are taking a wholistic approach to community growth with a focus on four key pillars: workforce development, business and industry development, investment and growth readiness, and investment attraction. A critical underlying factor of the department and region’s success is the prioritization of data driven decision making. The BREIS initiative was developed to gather industry specific data to help support MHED programming.
That's why we're excited to introduce Business Retention and Expansion - Industry Specific, also known as BREIS, along with our regional partners the Town of Redcliff, Cypress County, County of Forty Mile, Town of Bow Island, Village of Foremost, the Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce, Careers: The Next Generation, Palliser Economic Partnership, Verge Economic Development, Medicine Hat College and C4i.
How is BREIS Different?
The BREIS program marks a departure from traditional business retention and expansion assessments. Instead of taking a broad approach, we're diving deep into one industry at a time. But BREIS is more than just an acronym; it's a new approach to fostering growth and prosperity in our region.
Our intention with BREIS is to gain a deeper understanding of the current state of key sectors in our region by gathering data through surveys and business visitations as we aim to achieve several different goals.
Build relationships and stronger ties with our business community
Cultivate industry specific benchmarking and actionable data
Reduce industry and region-specific barriers to business growth and development
Ensure the business community feels heard, taken care and supported
Support the industry’s sustained growth and success over the long term
These goals will be accomplished through a multi-phase research process that will be tailored to the unique needs and challenges faced by each industry we study. Check out the information below for a quick breakdown of our research process.
BREIS Program Structure & Process
Phase 1
Community Assessment and Project Preparation
The first phase of each BREIS involves taking a high-level look at the industry in our region. Together with our program partners, we will dig into the opportunities and challenges experienced by businesses in the region. This information will act as the foundation for the development of a survey that will dig deeper into the individual experiences of businesses.
Phase 2
Survey Development & Business Visitation
The second phase will see members of Medicine Hat Economic Development, along with regional program partners, connecting one-on-one with businesses to collect data through a survey.
Phase 3
Data Analysis & Issue Identification
Largely an internal process, this includes compiling all the data collected and analyzing to find trends, gaps, and opportunities.
Phase 4
Report, Recommendations & Action Planning
The penultimate step is the creation of a report that will include recommendations and action plans. These will be measurable and based on industry recommendations from the study.
Phase 5
Action Plan Implementation
Each BREIS will culminate with an action implementation plan that will result in a clear positive outcome for the businesses in that industry.
What can you expect from BREIS?
Your participation is crucial to the success of BREIS. We invite all interested businesses to reach out to our Economic Development department to join the study. Rest assured, all involvement is voluntary, and our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Supporting our existing businesses isn't just good practice; it's essential for economic development. These businesses are the backbone of our community, driving employment and investment. By focusing on aerospace, aviation and defence, as well as manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution, we're laying the groundwork for a thriving future for Medicine Hat.
Join us as we embrace innovation, foster growth, and build a stronger, more resilient community together. Together, we're shaping a future where every business has the opportunity to thrive.
Contact Us
533 First Street SE
Medicine Hat, Alberta
T1A 0A9
403-977-0146
Email Us
Address
533 First Street SE
Medicine Hat, Alberta
T1A 0A9
Contact Us
Email: opportunity@medicinehat.ca
Phone: 403-977-0146