When it comes to business, our local government is extremely progressive. With measures and incentives put in place to help established businesses thrive and to encourage new business start ups, we pride ourselves on giving all types of business owners the support they need to be successful. With a collaborative and customer-focused approach, we work together as a team to understand and meet the needs of those interested in investing, establishing or relocating their business to Cranbrook, as well as supporting those currently investing in our city.
Spirit of collaboration
We work directly with local and neighbouring business leaders to expand our market reach and promote strategic growth. For instance, the Cranbrook-Kimberley Development Initiative (CKDI) established in 2015, presents the cities of Cranbrook and Kimberley as one economic region working together to bring new business to the area. Furthermore, the two cities have developed a joint business license for companies looking to expand their local market.
Our team, local industry and partners are committed to strengthening our city’s role as the regional service centre.
And with our total tax rate (5.29%) on major industry significantly lower than other B.C. cities, including those in the Lower Mainland and the Okanagan, we present a solid case for large enterprise expansion.
Advantages
Hydro electricity, green, renewable, sustainable & cost effective
Preferred Access to major markets
Competitive tax environment
Fiscal Incentives
Global hub for natural resources
Low land acquisition cost
Municipal leadership and vision
Growth potential
Value of Building Permits Issued
Air
The Canadian Rockies International Airport (YXC) makes travelling to and from Cranbrook a breeze. YXC is only 10 minutes away from the city, which means your time will be spent in Cranbrook, not getting to it. Over 20 flights from three major airlines depart from YXC daily and because of our fair weather, cancellations are extremely rare.
With direct flights to key Canadian business centres, including Vancouver, Calgary, and Toronto as well as international hubs, YXC has further opened Cranbrook to commerce, trade, and tourism opportunities and brings in a steady flow of business year-round. Offering stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges, YXC is unofficially and rightfully known as the world’s most beautiful runway.
- 2nd fastest growing airport in Canada (2018)
- 134,000+ passengers on average
- 10-minute drive to Cranbrook
- $10 million+ invested over 10 years
- 52 acres available for aerospace development
- 20+ flights a day
Rail
Cranbrook is fortunate to be in a major transportation nodal point where a variety of transportation modes are available to allow cargo to move regionally, interprovincially and internationally. As a central point between many origins and destinations, Cranbrook is an attractive place for collection and distribution of goods and services of various industries.
Established as a railway and resource town, Cranbrook has a long history with the Canadian Pacific Railway. Trains travel to and through Cranbrook daily from the Lower Mainland, the Okanagan, and other key B.C. locations.
Cranbrook is also one the few locations in the province with an international railway port. This means that US bound cargo spends significantly less time in transit than it would leaving from elsewhere and that Cranbrook can deliver its business to the world.
Our local government is committed to fostering a thriving business community. We offer a range of measures and incentives to help established businesses grow and to encourage new startups. Our goal is to provide all business owners with the necessary support to succeed. Our collaborative and customer-focused approach involves working as a team to understand and meet the needs of those interested in investing, establishing, or relocating their business to Cranbrook. We also provide support for those already investing in our city, to ensure their continued success.
Spirit of Collaboration
We collaborate closely with local and neighboring business leaders to expand our market reach and drive strategic growth. One recent example is the development of the Tourism Master Plan 2023 in partnership with Cranbrook Tourism, the Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce, and the Ktunaxa Nation Council. This plan will serve as a guide for the city’s decision-making on tourism initiatives, while also providing a clear vision and mission to enhance current tourism assets in the city and surrounding region. Find out more about our Tourism Master plan.
Our team, local industry and partners are committed to strengthening our city’s role as the regional service centre.
Value of Building Permits Issued – over the last 5 years
- $300M
- $897 family dwelling units built
- $50M + Invested in Infrastructure
- Find out more one our data portal
Talent and Workforce
Our labour force is dedicated and diverse with extensive experience in the city’s prime industry sectors of education, health care, construction, transportation, mining, and retail trade. These individuals are motivated by their desire to live, work, and play here.
Cranbrook is the Kootenay’s talent destination. As home of the College of the Rockies Main Campus, our talent pipeline is strong and diverse with COTR consistently investing in new programming.
