The Town of Westlock put itself in front of international investors this month, hoping to spark new business interest that could bring lasting growth to the community. Town officials, led by Mayor Jon Kramer, took part in AfriCanada Expo 2026 in Edmonton from June 10 to 12 as a Governmental and Institutional Partner and Showcase Partner.
Mayor Kramer pitched Westlock, a town of about 5,300 people roughly 45 minutes north of Edmonton, as a strategic regional hub. He pointed to its location along Highways 18 and 44, CN Rail service, and the presence of Westlock Terminals as key advantages. The town connected directly with business leaders, investors, entrepreneurs, and trade representatives during the three-day event.
On June 13, just one day after the expo wrapped up, 22 delegates made the trip up to Westlock for a closer look. They toured Westlock Terminals, the Port of Westlock, and Milwest Distillery, with CEO Clifford Bell hosting the visit. The day also included lunch from local caterer C&S Catering and presentations from town council and administration.
The town’s push for outside investment comes as it faces rising infrastructure costs and a need to grow its tax base. Mayor Kramer said that while Westlock continues to seek provincial and federal grants where possible, “grants and existing revenues can only take us so far.” He added that growth must “create lasting value for Westlock and the region.”
Alongside the expo efforts, Westlock is using Alberta’s Rural Entrepreneur Stream immigration program to help fill labour shortages and address business succession challenges. The town also recently received a $125,000 Northern and Regional Economic Development grant to support downtown redevelopment, part of a broader plan to strengthen Westlock as an economic hub for north-central Alberta.
