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In the heart of the Kootenays, Cranbrook is rapidly becoming a beacon for entrepreneurs and innovators seeking a vibrant community to launch and grow their startups. With a robust support system tailored to nurture new businesses, Cranbrook provides an ideal environment for economic development and innovation.

Empowering Entrepreneurs with Dedicated Resources

Cranbrook’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment for startups is evident in the comprehensive network of resources available to local entrepreneurs. This ecosystem is designed to streamline the journey from idea to execution, providing the tools and guidance necessary to ensure business success.

Community Futures East Kootenay

This organization delivers critical financial and strategic support, helping local entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of starting and managing a business. Learn more about their services.

Columbia Basin Trust – Columbia Basin Business Advisors

The trust enhances this ecosystem through the Basin Business Advisors program, providing essential business counseling to help firms strengthen and expand. Discover how they build a sustainable economic base.

Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce
Plays a crucial role in networking, advocacy, and providing resources to businesses in Cranbrook. They offer a platform for business owners to connect, share ideas, and collaborate. Explore the Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce.

Choose Cranbrook

Choose Cranbrook actively promotes and supports the economic development of the city. It serves as a central hub for entrepreneurs and investors, providing extensive resources, including detailed market analysis, investment opportunities, and comprehensive demographic data. Explore the potential that Cranbrook has to offer and learn how this organization drives business growth and innovation at Choose Cranbrook.

ʔaq̓am Community Enterprises

ʔaq̓am Community Enterprises champions Indigenous entrepreneurship by providing targeted support and development opportunities. This organization enhances economic diversification through community-led projects and partnerships that harness local resources and talents. Explore how ʔaq̓am Community Enterprises fosters sustainable business growth and cultural vitality.

Kootenay Association for Science & Technology (KAST)
Supports Kootenay businesses with programs and workshops aimed at boosting tech and science-driven enterprises. They also provide networking opportunities and funding resources. Learn more about KAST’s initiatives.

Kootenay Employment Services

Kootenay Employment Services (KES) supports the local workforce by providing comprehensive employment services and resources. They assist job seekers with career advice, training, and job matching, and help businesses create inclusive work environments. KES also offers specialized programs like the Rural Entrepreneurship Development (RED) Program, which supports new business ventures in the region. Learn more about their initiatives at KES.

These resources represent just a portion of the comprehensive support available in Cranbrook, which together foster a thriving community where collaboration and innovation lead to substantial business growth. With its strategic location and extensive network of support, Cranbrook is an ideal place for entrepreneurs aiming to make a significant impact.

Join the Cranbrook Business Community

Seize the opportunities in Cranbrook and discover why it’s quickly becoming a favored destination for dynamic business growth. With a community deeply committed to your success, Cranbrook is the place where your business can flourish.

Cranbrook, BC, a gem nestled in the heart of the Rockies, offers more than just breathtaking landscapes—it presents a lifestyle that’s both enriching and surprisingly affordable. For those yearning for the quintessential mountain living without the hefty price tag, Cranbrook might just be your next destination.

Affordable Living in Nature’s Backyard

Imagine residing where the cost of a home leaves you with enough to enjoy life’s pleasures. Cranbrook is making this a reality through its commitment to affordable housing. 

According to the 2024 BC Property Assessments, compared to other BC markets, a typical single-family home in Cranbrook costs around $468,000, which is much more affordable than nearby Fernie at $848,000, Kelowna at around $953,000, Victoria at approximately $1.1 million, and significantly less than Vancouver, where prices often exceed $2.2 million. This positions Cranbrook as a highly attractive option for those seeking both value and beauty in their living environment. (2024 BC Assessment) (2024 BC Assessment) (2024 BC Assessment)  

The city has also recently seen the development of numerous housing units designed to be budget-friendly for families and seniors, reflecting a community-focused approach to growth.​ (BC Gov News)​​ (BC Gov News)​

These efforts ensure that residents can enjoy both comfort and affordability. Whether it’s a cozy apartment or a spacious suburban home, Cranbrook’s real estate market offers diverse housing options at prices that won’t break the bank.

Thriving Community and Economic Opportunities

Cranbrook isn’t just about living affordably; it’s about living well. The city is bustling with initiatives aimed at fostering innovation and sustainability. With provincial support, local projects are enhancing community services, boosting the local economy, and creating a nurturing environment for both new and established businesses​ (East Kootenay News Online Weekly)​.

This proactive community development helps keep living costs low while enriching residents’ lives. Entrepreneurs find a welcoming business climate here, where lower operational costs drive greater profitability and sustainability.

Outdoor Adventures Without the Expense

In Cranbrook, the great outdoors is your playground. Situated in a region famed for its majestic settings, the city offers endless opportunities for adventure—from hiking trails that weave through expansive forests to serene lakes perfect for fishing. The best part? Engaging in these healthy, fun activities comes with minimal expense.

Living here means your backyard adventures require little more than stepping outside. This accessibility to nature, combined with Cranbrook’s community amenities, crafts a lifestyle that celebrates both adventure and relaxation.

Cranbrook encapsulates the ideal blend of affordability, community, and natural beauty, making it a top choice for those looking to enhance their quality of life without stretching their finances. Explore what it means to live the Rocky Mountain dream—affordably, joyfully, and sustainably.

In Cranbrook, the sun doesn’t just visit; it practically lives here. With over 300 days of sunshine each year, Cranbrook proudly holds the title of BC’s sunniest city. This abundant sunshine not only bathes the city in a warm glow but also warmly invites newcomers and tourists alike to bask in its endless opportunities.

Living Under Cranbrook’s Clear Skies

Imagine waking up nearly every day to clear, sunny skies. That’s the daily reality in Cranbrook, where the generous sun enhances a lifestyle that many can only dream of. The city’s exceptional weather is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, families seeking a vibrant community, and businesses looking to thrive in a dynamic environment.

Whether it’s hiking through the expansive, sunlit trails or enjoying a leisurely afternoon at one of the local parks, the weather here supports an active, healthy lifestyle all year round.

Economic Growth Fueled by Sunshine

It’s not just the natural beauty that shines bright; Cranbrook’s economic landscape is equally radiant. The sunshine supports a flourishing tourism sector, with visitors drawn to the area’s natural splendor and extensive outdoor activities. Local businesses thrive with the influx of tourists and the high quality of life, making Cranbrook a hotspot for entrepreneurial ventures and economic opportunities.

A Hub for Solar Energy Innovation

Cranbrook’s microclimate isn’t just good for the soul; it’s powerful for the grid too. The city is becoming a hub for solar energy projects, tapping into its most abundant natural resource to power homes and businesses sustainably. This initiative not only highlights Cranbrook’s commitment to green energy but also positions the city as a leader in ecological innovation, harnessing each day’s sun for a brighter future.

Come for the Climate, Stay for the Community

What makes Cranbrook truly special is how its sunny disposition translates into a warm community spirit. The city’s weather fosters a welcoming, vibrant community where each sunny day brings new opportunities to connect and grow.

Interested in making Cranbrook your new home or just planning a visit? Check out the Newcomers Guide for everything you need to know about living, working, and playing in BC’s sunniest city. Here in Cranbrook, the future looks bright, and we can confidently say the weather agrees!

This summer, Cranbrook introduces an exciting new way to navigate its vibrant streets and scenic paths: the Bird e-scooter pilot program. Launched in partnership with Bird Canada, this initiative is not just about enhancing urban mobility but also about offering a cost-effective and environmentally friendly transportation alternative that aligns with Cranbrook’s forward-thinking approach to urban planning.

Enhancing Commuter and Tourist Experiences

The e-scooter program caters to both locals commuting daily and tourists seeking leisurely explorations. With these scooters, everyone can enjoy the ease of zipping through the city, visiting local shops, parks, and attractions without the hassle of car parking or the constraints of public transit schedules. It’s a fun, fast, and flexible way to experience Cranbrook, whether you’re rushing to a meeting or cruising by the stunning local landscapes that define this beautiful region.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

A key feature of the e-scooter program is its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Unlike the hefty upfront costs associated with purchasing personal electric bikes or scooters, the Bird e-scooter rental system allows users to pay per ride. This pay-as-you-go approach makes sustainable transportation accessible to a broader demographic, ensuring that more people can participate in Cranbrook’s active, outdoor lifestyle. It democratizes access to mobility solutions, fostering a more inclusive community environment.

Embracing a Sunny Disposition

Cranbrook’s status as the sunniest city in BC naturally complements outdoor activities like e-scooting. The favorable weather invites residents and visitors alike to enjoy extended daylight hours exploring all that the city has to offer, comfortably and sustainably. This microclimate not only enhances the e-scooting experience but also contributes to the city’s reputation as a prime destination for those seeking an active and eco-friendly lifestyle.

For more details on the program and to make the most out of your e-scooter experience in Cranbrook, check out the Newcomers Guide. This guide provides additional insights into navigating the city efficiently and is an essential resource for both residents and visitors looking to explore Cranbrook in an environmentally conscious manner.

The City of Cranbrook is excited to announce the redevelopment of Choose Cranbrook and the release of four new Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) attraction videos designed to showcase the vibrant opportunities and strategic advantages of investing in Cranbrook. The videos highlight the City’s key attributes, development prospects, and partnerships, underlining Cranbrook’s commitment to economic growth and sustainable development.

1. This Is Cranbrook / ʔa·kisk􀹂aqⱡiʔit This video introduces viewers to the City of Cranbrook, showcasing key stats, infrastructure, and high quality of life. This video underscores why Cranbrook is not just a place to live, but a strategic location for business growth and innovation.
2. ɁamakɁis Natanik This video showcases the land development opportunities at the Canadian Rockies International Airport, highlights the proposed Natanik Renewable Energy Project, and illustrates how Cranbrook’s proactive development policies and supportive business environment make it an ideal destination for investors seeking new opportunities.
3. ʔaq̓am Community Enterprises In collaboration with ʔaq̓am, this video emphasizes Cranbrook’s strong commitment to Indigenous partnerships and reconciliation. The partnership with ʔaq̓am is showcased through various joint initiatives, demonstrating a shared vision for sustainable growth and mutual prosperity.
4. Natanik Renewable Energy Highlighting ʔaq̓am’s forward-thinking approach to sustainable development, this video introduces the Natanik Renewable Energy project. It teases developers with our plans to harness local renewable resources, reduce carbon emissions, and create green jobs, reinforcing Cranbrook’s position as regional hub.

“These videos have allowed ACE to share our stories far and wide, engaging a wide network of people as we fulfil our mandate for the ʔaq̓amnik􀹂 people,” says Craig Campbell, General Manager of ʔaq̓am Community Enterprises (ACE). “We are grateful for the support and look forward to our bright future.”

“We are thrilled to unveil our new series of FDI attraction videos showcasing the City’s development opportunities and strategic advantages for investors,” says Darren Brewer, Economic Development Officer for the City. “ʔaq̓am Community Enterprises and the City of Cranbrook’s economic development office are working together with a shared vision and goals to create generational wealth for its surrounding communities. Furthermore, the videos shine a spotlight on the important community to community work we are doing in our efforts for reconciliation with our local First Nation.”

The videos are part of Cranbrook’s broader economic development strategy, which includes recent initiatives such as participation in BC Hydro’s Load Attraction Program. The City’s efforts have been recognized nationally with awards from the Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC) for excellence in community economic development.

To view the new FDI attraction videos and learn more about Cranbrook’s investment opportunities, visit

This Is Cranbrook (youtube.com)

 ɁamakɁis Natanik (youtube.com)

 ʔaq̓am Community Enterprises (ACE) (youtube.com)

 Natanik Renewable Energy (youtube.com)

On top of offering an idyllic slice of Rocky Mountain paradise, the City of Cranbrook occupies an area of significantly untapped potential, presenting investors with a unique and compelling offer to pave the way toward reconciliation while also turning them onto renewable energy opportunities for high-draw power users.

Supporting the progressive efforts of the ʔaq̓am community, a member community of the Ktunaxa First Nation, the city is working on an ambitious economic development strategy that is primed with development possibilities for businesses in the industrial, manufacturing or hospitality sectors.

Natanik, which translates into “sun,” is a renewable energy project and land development that represents truth and reconciliation in action. The project has two main elements: a utility-grade renewable energy project and the development of more than 100 acres of lease-only land adjacent to the Canadian Rockies International Airport.

ʔaq̓am Community Enterprises (ACE) and the City of Cranbrook’s economic development office are working together with a shared vision and goals to create generational wealth for its surrounding communities. This is a historic opportunity, a vision of Indigenous clean energy that’s ready to power business and economic reconciliation.

“ACE was created to generate revenue and create economic opportunities through sound business practices and strategic relationships,” says Ktunaxa Nation elder and ACE board member Marty Williams. “It’s important we develop relationships to develop businesses that are sustainable, and we welcome anyone who has a business and is looking to expand to work with us.”

This is a project that offers a myriad of opportunities highlighted by two main selling points: electricity supplied through a First Nations-led green energy project and an airport that is on the doorstep of Rocky Mountain gems.

“It’s our airport and our city that makes the experience for the hotels and the traveller truly unique,” says City of Cranbrook economic development officer Darren Brewer. “Instead of flying into a busy airport in Calgary or Vancouver to get to Jasper or Banff, we can offer a gateway that makes a memorable connection to the Rockies.”

The land is ideally suited for light industrial, manufacturing or hospitality opportunities: think hotels, aerospace, logistics, supply chain, tech start-ups and high-draw power users, among others.

Available electricity can be scarce in large swaths of Canada, not to mention the need to navigate lengthy wait times with local governments.

“Cranbrook is a great location for companies looking to establish clean and sustainable operations in B.C.,” Brewer adds. “Close collaboration between government and municipalities along with leading climate policies, critical infrastructure, and top talent all help companies to get established and grow. In addition, streamlined regulations make registering a business easier and applying for permits and licenses easier.”

And because Cranbrook is B.C.’s sunniest city, the solar power component makes sense. 

“Natanik represents more than just a renewable energy project and employment lands; it embodies economic reconciliation in action,” says ACE general manager Craig Campbell. “It offers a historic opportunity to partner with a First Nation community, fostering sustainable development while creating generational wealth for our community.”

Cranbrook, BC (January 25, 2024) – Just over $38.4 million dollars in total construction value was reported to have occurred in the City of Cranbrook over the course of 2023, with a total of 198 building permits issued during that time. Administration provided Council an overview of both construction values and development permit figures for 2023, at Council’s regular meeting on Monday, January 22, 2024. The breakdown by quarter is reported as follows:

Quarter # Of Permits Issued Total Construction Value
• 1st Quarter (January – March 2023) 47 $7.3 million
• 2nd Quarter (April – June 2023) 46 $11.1 million
• 3rd Quarter (July – September 2023) 53 $11 million
• 4th Quarter (October – December 2023) 52 $9 million

“Based on the number of subdivision approval applications we received in 2023, I am optimistic that we will see an increase in housing development,” says Mayor Wayne Price. “We should also see a number of high density residential projects, which are now in the permit stages, commence this building season.” A total of 21 single family dwelling starts, and 8 mobile home placements were reported over the year, helping to add to the City’s housing inventory. Several significant building and renovation projects were also on the books for 2023 including:

• Superstore interior alterations for construction value of $800,000.00
• Substantial renovation @ 32 – 9th Avenue South to accommodate the future Ktunaxa Nation Council Health Centre for a value of $2.57 million.
• New Odor Control building serving Shadow Mountain Sewer line extension valued at $1.58 million.
• $1.3 million renovation to 6th Street North Plaza (beside 7-Eleven) for future relocation of Symmetry Dental
• Demolition and subsequent new construction of a two-story infill unit including façade upgrades to the Furniture Store along Baker Street (Hush Home Furnishings) for a value of $1.2 million.
• 3 City of Cranbrook permits: Elizabeth Lake Viewing Platform; Elizabeth Lake Picnic Shelter; and the replacement of the Balment Stairs.
• Renovation of the former Harley Davidson Dealership for the new CENTEX gas & convenience store on Cranbrook Street valued at $800k.
• Bank of Montreal modernization renovation valued at $1.8 million.
• An Overflow Shop serving the Nissan dealership for a value of $845k.
• Renovation of Staff Area for the ER Department at the East Kootenay Regional Hospital for a construction value of $455k.
• A building permit issued for the roof system upgrades to the Memorial Arena for a construction value of approx. $2.9 million.

“We are excited to see the continued investment in residential housing, commercial, and industrial properties throughout the City. Our building and business community deserve a lot of credit,” says Mike Matjeka, Director of Engineering and Development Services. “2024 is shaping up to see continued growth, with the City placing a strong focus on adding to the housing inventory with the potential creation of over 150 new lots as well as two new apartment buildings looking to break ground with an additional 146 units.”