'I ❤️ SG' Conversation Series Topic #6- Economic Opportunity
- Erin Stevenson
- Aug 13
- 3 min read
Spruce Grove Councillor Erin Stevenson is proud to launch her campaign for a third term under the banner “I ❤️ SG”—a positive, community-focused message reflecting her deep commitment to the people, places, and possibilities that make Spruce Grove special.
Driving Economic Growth and Opportunity in Spruce Grove
Spruce Grove is more than a great place to live—it’s a city that’s creating space for businesses to start, grow, and thrive.Erin Stevenson is highlighting the economic development strategies, economic opportunity and investments that are setting the stage for long-term prosperity.
Watch the video:
LOVE: Supporting Businesses, Growing the Local Economy
One of the most significant steps forward came in October 2024, when Spruce Grove launched its Start-up and Early-Stage Business Support Program during Small Business Week. The program was developed following a November 2023 study on business support, which led to new local initiatives like the SMARTstart Program, helping entrepreneurs turn ideas into viable businesses.
Economic growth has been guided by the Economic Development Strategy and Action Plan, approved in January 2023. This plan builds on past successes while balancing quality of life with economic diversification—ensuring that as Spruce Grove grows, it remains both vibrant and livable.
Stevenson and Council continue to work with the Economic Development Advisory Committee (EDAC), which provides recommendations and insight into how best to foster local business and attract investment.
Investments in public spaces have also been key. McLeod Avenue from King Street to Queen Street has been completely rebuilt, and the newly revitalized Columbus Park is now a destination for community events and markets. The City Centre Storefront Improvement Program has encouraged property and business owners to make exterior upgrades, while collaboration with the City Centre Business Association has strengthened shop-local initiatives, community markets, and revitalization projects. “These programs and investments aren’t just about economics—they’re about making Spruce Grove a place where people want to live, work, and spend time,” Stevenson says.
IMPROVE: Attracting the Right Mix of Businesses
As Spruce Grove grows, Stevenson wants to see a stronger focus on attracting a variety of businesses that draw people to key districts—not just to shop, but to gather. “That means entertainment centres, restaurants, and unique shops,” she explains. “We should be concentrating these in high-growth areas like the City Centre, the Baseball district, Westwind, and even west of Superstore in Creekside Commons as we expand in that direction.”
With Costco likely coming to the region in the next couple of years, Stevenson sees an opportunity to leverage that growth to attract complementary businesses to Spruce Grove. “There’s so much potential—we just have to go after it.”
NEXT: Finding Spruce Grove’s Niche in the Tech Economy
While Spruce Grove may not be an oil, gas, or hydrogen hub, Stevenson believes the city is well-positioned to develop a technology sector. “We’re fully fibred out, including in our industrial park,” she says. “A tech park doesn’t require a huge footprint, and with Alberta attracting AI and data centres, we can compete if we invest strategically.”
Proximity to Parkland County’s data infrastructure via TransAlta could be a major selling point. Stevenson envisions Spruce Grove as a destination for AI companies and technology firms, creating a niche in the regional economy. “I’ve been advocating for this for eight years,” she says. “And I’m ready to keep pushing for four more if I have to.”
Share your thoughts with Erin and connect with her on social media and don't forget to use the hashtag #IHeartSG. Show Erin support in her re-election campaign by requesting a lawn sign (request form is at the bottom of every webpage).
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