Strategically located in East-Central Alberta, the County of Stettler No. 6 offers a unique combination of robust traditional industries, a rapidly diversifying economic base, and a highly collaborative business ecosystem. Backed by exceptional transportation connectivity (including major provincial corridors like Highway 12 and Highway 56), affordable land, and a resilient workforce, our region is primed for sustainable economic growth.
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Whether you are an established corporation or a visionary entrepreneur looking for the perfect place to invest, launch and scale, you will find a proactive partner in the County of Stettler. Explore the core sectors driving our economy and discover why the County of Stettler is the ideal destination for your next investment.
Our Sectors
Agriculture and Agribusiness
Agriculture is the foundation of the County of Stettler’s economy and heritage. With over 470,000 acres of highly productive cropland and a robust inventory of livestock, including more than 130,000 head of cattle, the region is an absolute powerhouse in primary agricultural production.
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View our Success Stories in Agriculture and Agribusiness.
The Logistics & Infrastructure Advantage
Our agricultural sector is anchored by major industrial-scale infrastructure. Featuring a high-efficiency loop track system for rapid rail transport and fast, high-capacity truck unloading, these assets provide local producers and agribusinesses with seamless, direct access to global export markets.
Backed by proactive municipal support, including a dedicated Agricultural Service Board, robust rural water networks, and strategically placed agricultural water tank loader stations, the County actively ensures local producers and ag businesses have the infrastructure needed to scale.
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The Shirley McClellan Regional Water Services Commission (SMRWSC) consists of 13 partner municipalities (including the County of Stettler) that are working to supply potable water access to the member communities. Formed in 2007, the SMRWSC has coordinated and built nearly 400 kilometres of freshwater pipeline to residents, communities, farms and ranches. It is believed to be the longest regional potable water line in western Canada, stretching across hundreds of kilometres to connect farms, ranches, and small communities.
A Complete Agricultural Ecosystem
Operating in the County of Stettler means you are never isolated. The region boasts an incredibly dense network of dedicated agricultural service providers, including trusted local crop inputs, agronomy consultants, veterinary clinics, specialized equipment dealerships, and custom hauling services. This immediate availability of local expertise ensures producers can source vital supplies and support right at their doorstep.
The Opportunity
Our massive local output of high-quality crops and livestock creates a lucrative environment for value-added agricultural processing, specialized agri-tech development, and regional distribution networks.
Furthermore, the County’s development-friendly bylaws make it an ideal environment for agricultural entrepreneurs and small-scale, specialized producers such as organic market gardens, craft beverage ingredients suppliers, and niche livestock ventures to launch and scale with ease.
Our Sectors
Energy: Traditional Excellence & Renewable Innovation
Traditional Energy
The region maintains a steady baseline of natural gas and oil production supported by deep local supply chains, specialized oilfield services, and an experienced technical workforce.
Renewable Energy
Capitalizing on our wide-open spaces, big blue skies, and accessible grid infrastructure, the region has emerged as a premier hotspot for renewable energy investment in Alberta.
The Opportunity
Businesses can tap into an integrated energy ecosystem, pairing traditional manufacturing and servicing capabilities with emerging green energy tech, carbon mitigation, and infrastructure layout.
Our Sectors
Manufacturing
The Advantage
With low municipal taxes, development-friendly bylaws, and a deep pool of reliable, highly capable local talent, establishing your operations in the County is a highly lucrative move for forward-thinking industrial leaders looking to escape the high real estate costs and congested logistics of major metropolitan centres.
Innovative Solutions
Driven by a culture of practical problem-solving, our local manufacturers and industrial entrepreneurs specialize in pioneering custom, field-tested solutions for everyday challenges in agricultural production.
The Capability
The County of Stettler’s manufacturing landscape has evolved far beyond basic assembly. Today, the region is home to progressive facilities utilizing high-quality laser cutting machinery and computerized numerical control (CNC) systems. This advanced infrastructure allows local manufacturers to deliver extreme precision, tighter tolerances, and rapid prototyping for components across the agricultural, energy, and commercial sectors.
Our Sectors
Tourism & Outdoor Recreation
Positioned as the "Heart of Alberta," our unique natural landscape and deep-rooted rural heritage draw a steady stream of regional and international visitors annually.
The Landscape
Anchored by the pristine waters of Buffalo Lake, the County is a major draw for summer water sports, camping, and cabin life. Beyond the water's edge, the region is highly regarded as a premier outdoor destination, offering excellent sport fishing and hunting opportunities across our diverse wetlands and prairies.
The Culture
From the iconic Alberta Prairie Railway steam train excursions (running between Stettler and Big Valley) to competitive rodeos, pheasant hunting festivals, and historical landmarks, our cultural tourism is thriving.
The Opportunity
Our robust tourism market creates immediate space for investment and commercial growth. Entrepreneurs can capitalize on this year-round demand by investing in hospitality, accommodations, experiential tourism, and expanded recreational services designed to cater to outdoor enthusiasts.
