Alberta launches Premier’s Investment Council to fast-track major projects

The Alberta government has created a new council aimed at accelerating major investment projects and strengthening coordination across ministries and agencies.

The Premier’s Investment Council will bring together senior government officials and leaders from key provincial agencies to streamline decision-making, reduce barriers and attract large-scale investment, the province said in a March 26 news release.

Premier Danielle Smith said the council is designed to improve how government works with investors and ensure Alberta remains competitive globally.

“Alberta is open for business, and we are done working in silos,” Smith said in the release. “This council brings the right people to one table to move faster, cut through barriers and land the kind of investment that creates jobs and grows our economy.”

The council will focus on aligning government efforts, sharing market intelligence and tracking high-impact opportunities. It will also provide strategic advice to guide Alberta’s overall investment strategy and coordinate action on complex, cross-sector projects.

Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration Minister Joseph Schow said the province’s economic potential depends on strong coordination and clear leadership.

“Together, this council will take what Alberta has to offer to the world, ensuring we can remain and strengthen our position as a global economic leader and investment hub,” Schow said.

The advisory body will include representatives from ministries responsible for finance, energy, agriculture, innovation and tourism, along with leadership from agencies such as Alberta Investment Management Corporation, ATB Financial, Invest Alberta Corporation and Travel Alberta.

Former prime minister Stephen Harper, now board chair of AIMCo, said the organization is positioned to provide insight into how global investors assess opportunities across jurisdictions.

The council will serve in an advisory capacity and will not alter the mandates of participating agencies. Members will not be paid.

The government said the initiative supports its broader effort to review Alberta’s approach to investment and develop a roadmap for growing and diversifying trade and investment opportunities.