The Lethbridge business community is being invited to share its outlook through the seventh annual Brighter Together survey.
Economic Development Lethbridge, the Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Lethbridge BRZ have joined forces to gather feedback from local businesses about economic conditions and emerging concerns.
Mike Prociw, workforce program manager with Economic Development Lethbridge, said the survey aims to measure the current economic climate and identify the challenges businesses anticipate facing in the year ahead.
“The insights gained from the survey help us ensure we are addressing issues of consequence for the local business community,” Prociw said.
Responses will help the partner organizations shape their plans for the coming year and determine where businesses are looking for additional support.
The 2025 findings pointed to the importance of Lethbridge’s educational institutions as an advantage for local businesses. However, respondents identified the municipal tax environment as the area’s most significant disadvantage.
Looking ahead to 2026, respondents expressed particular concern about rising insurance expenses, labour costs and the potential effects of tariffs.
Cyndi Crane, CEO of the Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce, said businesses have faced ongoing uncertainty in recent years, with tariffs and elevated energy costs adding to existing pressures.
“It’s not always easy for them, and we know that, and that’s why it’s so important for businesses to let us know how we can best help,” Crane said.
Crane said the feedback gives the partner organizations a clearer picture of where they can direct resources and provide practical support to local businesses.
The survey is available through the Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Lethbridge websites.
