The Town is working with Colliers Project Leaders to develop an Economic Development Strategy that will help guide the direction of our local economy over the next 10 years.

This strategy builds on Envision Cochrane 2050 (EC2050), the community’s long-term plan that guides how Cochrane evolves over time. The Economic Development Strategy will focus on identifying economic opportunities that build on Cochrane’s strengths and support a strong and resilient local economy.

The strategy will provide direction on:

• supporting local businesses
• strengthening job opportunities
• identifying investment opportunities for the community, and
• supporting economic development in ways that benefit the community

Why this matters

Cochrane’s economy affects many parts of everyday life — from local jobs and businesses to the services and amenities available in the community.

The Economic Development Strategy will help guide how the Town supports businesses, plans for economic opportunity, and prepares for the future. Hearing from residents helps ensure the strategy reflects the priorities and values of the community.

Purpose

We are inviting residents, businesses and community partners to share your perspective on Cochrane’s economy today and ideas for the future.

Through this engagement, we are seeking input on:

• Economic priorities and opportunities: Understanding community perspectives on Cochrane’s economic strengths, challenges, and opportunities.
• Community and business supports: Identifying what types of infrastructure, services, or policies may help support local businesses and economic opportunity.
• Vision and values for the future: Ensuring the strategy reflects what residents and businesses value most about Cochrane’s character, lifestyle, and economic future.
• Community readiness for investment and development: Understanding perspectives on different types of economic activity and how they align with community priorities.

Get involved

Share your ideas and perspectives through the online survey, pop-up events, and a community open house. Dates and times provided under 'Key Dates'.

Take the survey below and share your thoughts (Open until April 17, 2026) - must be a registered user of Let's Talk Cochrane.
The survey will take 10-12 minutes to complete. Optional: enter for your chance to win a $150 gift card to a local business of your choice.

What happens next

Once engagement activities are complete, the project team will review and analyze the feedback collected through the survey, events, and other engagement opportunities.

The “What We Heard” report will be shared summarizing the key themes and insights from the engagement process. These insights, along with economic research and analysis, will help inform the development of Cochrane’s Economic Development Strategy.

Updates on project milestones and timelines will continue to be shared on Let’s Talk Cochrane - you can sign up for "Follow Project" for more immediate notifications.