City secures provincial funding for workforce attraction and growth

The City of Medicine Hat has secured funding through Alberta’s Northern and Regional Economic Development (NRED) program to support a new, multi-year workforce attraction initiative. 

The project – known as Opportunity is Calling in Medicine Hat – is a coordinated marketing campaign designed to attract skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and remote workers to the city while addressing critical gaps in the local workforce.  

In total, the provincial grant will contribute 50% – the maximum allowable contribution under the NRED program – of the $222,000 budget for the initiative with the rest funded by the City of Medicine Hat and Tourism Medicine Hat via cash and in-kind contributions.

“This investment allows us to take a more strategic, collaborative approach to workforce attraction,” said Selena McLean-Moore, Director of Economic Development with the City of Medicine Hat. “By aligning our messaging, amplifying our strengths, and leveraging regional partnerships, we are positioning Medicine Hat as an attractive destination for talent and investment.” 

Running through Q2 of 2027, the initiative is a partnership between the City of Medicine Hat, Tourism Medicine Hat, and Community Futures Entre-Corp and expands existing efforts of the Move to Medicine Hat website and the Talent Ambassador Program. Meanwhile, it also introduces a new Leadership Ambassador Program to help local leaders and employers promote the community. 

The campaign will highlight Medicine Hat’s competitive advantages, including affordability, quality of life, and opportunities across key sectors such as agriculture, aerospace, and healthcare. By connecting prospective workers with real job opportunities and showcasing the region’s lifestyle benefits, the initiative aims to reduce barriers to relocation and strengthen long-term economic resilience. 

“Businesses follow talent,” added McLean-Moore. “By attracting and retaining a skilled workforce, we’re not only supporting our existing industries and addressing workforce gaps – we’re also creating the conditions for future growth, investment, and diversification.”