Four municipalities convene supply-chain players

Strathcona County, Sturgeon County, the City of Fort Saskatchewan, and Lamont County will host the Regional Supply Chain Forum on Nov. 3, aiming to help local businesses access new supply chain and procurement opportunities. Businesses will learn about purchasing processes, supplier requirements, industry trends, and strategies for positioning themselves for future contracts. "Regional collaboration is essential to building a stronger, more competitive business environment," said Reade Beaudoin, senior economic development officer for Strathcona County. "By bringing together four municipalities and industry partners under one roof, we are creating opportunities for local businesses to establish relationships, better understand procurement pathways, and compete for work across the region."

The municipalities say this event highlights the growing importance of collaboration in economic development. "Rather than working independently, the four municipalities are leveraging their collective strengths to create a larger, more connected marketplace where businesses can access information, expand networks, and pursue new opportunities," a news release reads. Strathcona County, Sturgeon County, and Fort Saskatchewan are among the municipalities that left the regional economic development agency Edmonton Global, but all four are still members of Alberta's Industrial Heartland Association. Edmonton Mayor Andrew Knack told Taproot in December that Edmonton Global's dwindling membership — down to nine municipalities from its original 14, with three more on their way out — could mean the various forums for sub-regional collaboration can focus on their strengths.

Strathcona County said the supply-chain event will feature presentations from industrial partners who will share insights about procurement and purchasing processes, followed by dedicated networking opportunities that allow attendees to engage directly with industry and procurement representatives. ATCO, Clark Builders, Keyera, PCL, North West Redwater Partnership, and Inter Pipeline are expected to have representatives in attendance.