Banding together with neighbouring municipalities could give southwestern Alberta a stronger voice at the provincial level, a regional economic development representative told Pincher Creek town council March 23.

“We can be considered a middle power if we kind of band together,” said Sean Miles of the Alberta SouthWest Regional Alliance.

The alliance works across 15 communities in the region, serving a population of roughly 40,000, and has operated for about 25 years. It is one of the few economic development organizations in Western Canada to receive international accreditation.

Miles said much of the alliance’s work happens behind the scenes, including working with companies exploring opportunities in the region, often under non-disclosure agreements, and helping connect them with provincial resources and local municipalities.

He added that while attracting new businesses is important, about 80 per cent of investment typically comes from existing businesses. As a result, the alliance also focuses on helping local companies with expansion opportunities and connecting them to grants and other resources.

The alliance is exploring value-added agriculture, manufacturing, energy and tourism, and more specific initiatives such as a regional aerospace cluster, critical minerals development and the potential for medical tourism.

The aerospace concept would look at defining specialized roles for airports across the region, while medical tourism discussions have emerged following changes that allow physicians to provide both public and private services.

Miles also highlighted emerging opportunities tied to broader economic pressures, including food security and defence-related supply chains, which are generating new funding streams and investment potential.

Looking ahead, Miles said the organization is placing greater emphasis on regional collaboration and identifying shared economic strengths rather than competing between communities, noting that stronger collaboration could help amplify the region’s voice at the provincial level.