Following a summer of unprecedented wildfires that severely impacted local businesses and tourism, the Government of Canada is providing $3.9 million to aid Jasper’s economic recovery, focusing on helping small businesses and revitalizing the tourism sector.
Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, announced the funding on behalf of Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan), emphasizing the government’s commitment to helping Jasper’s small businesses rebuild. The announcement includes a $3.45 million investment in the Jasper Business Recovery Program and an additional $500,000 to support Tourism Jasper’s efforts to encourage visitor engagement.
“Our government is listening to the residents and businesses of Jasper about how to help them recover from the devastating impacts of last summer’s unprecedented wildfires,” said Dan Vandal, Minister for PrairiesCan. “These initiatives directly respond to the needs of local businesses, ensuring they can continue offering the services and experiences that make Jasper a renowned destination for visitors from across Canada and beyond.”
The Jasper Business Recovery Program
The Jasper Business Recovery Program will provide non-repayable funding to small businesses with 50 or fewer employees in Jasper and Jasper National Park. Sole proprietors in tourism, construction, and events industries will receive up to $5,000, while incorporated businesses can access up to $10,000. The program, administered by Community Futures West Yellowhead, also offers coaching and business development services, aiming to reach 325 small businesses and support over 500 jobs.
“Helping small businesses find their footing again is the quickest way to get Jasper’s tourism sector back up and running,” Boissonnault stated. “This funding will help 325 businesses reopen, support 500 tourism jobs, and allow the town to fully welcome back tourists and residents.”
Local leaders have expressed gratitude for the federal support, recognizing that Jasper’s economic stability relies heavily on small businesses and tourism. “We are deeply grateful to the Government of Canada for today’s funding announcement,” said Richard Ireland, Mayor of Jasper. “This support is critical to our recovery, and it strengthens our community’s resilience as we rebuild together.”
In addition to business grants, the federal funding for Tourism Jasper will support seasonal events and cultural experiences to draw visitors back to the region. With initiatives such as light installations, ice sculptures, performances, and the expansion of the Dark Sky Festival in 2025, the funding aims to bolster foot traffic for downtown businesses throughout the winter, spring, and fall.
Open and ready to welcome visitors
“Jasper is open and ready to welcome visitors,” said Tyler Riopel, CEO of Tourism Jasper. “A busy winter season is essential to our revitalization and sustaining our community’s vibrant local shops, restaurants, and service providers. This announcement highlights the collaboration that’s making Jasper’s economic recovery possible.”
The Jasper Park Chamber of Commerce, which has been a steadfast advocate for business support, welcomed the new funding. “PrairiesCan funding will be invaluable for the many businesses affected by the wildfires,” said Paul Butler, Executive Director of the Chamber. “The robust recovery of our business community is key to Jasper’s economic and social rebound, and together we’ll rebuild stronger than ever.”
Community Futures West Yellowhead, which has served rural businesses across Alberta for years, is proud to take a leading role in administering the recovery program. “With PrairiesCan’s funding, we’re here to support Jasper’s businesses through recovery, helping to lay a foundation for long-term economic health,” said Tyler Olsen, Board Chair of Community Futures West Yellowhead.
The funding aligns with other federal recovery efforts, including investments in rent relief, tourism, and the transfer of development authority to the municipality. As the area rebuilds, the collective efforts of local, provincial, and federal partners are helping the community emerge stronger and ready to welcome visitors back to this iconic Alberta destination.
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