A collaborative business needs survey conducted earlier this year has revealed that Drumheller’s business community is thriving and optimistic about the future. The 2025 Drumheller and Region Business Survey collected insights from 100 local businesses representing more than 1,200 employees, equating to approximately one-quarter of the region’s workforce.

Jointly delivered by the Town of Drumheller Economic Development team, Community Futures Big Country, Drumheller & District Chamber of Commerce, Travel Drumheller, and MH Enterprises, the survey helps public and private sector partners better understand the region’s economic landscape and business climate.

“This data gives us a clear picture of where we are and where we’re going as a business community,” says Reg Johnston, Manager of Economic Development for the Town of Drumheller. “The insights are invaluable in helping us develop informed strategies to support and grow our local economy.”

Key Findings from the 2025 Report Include:

• $957 million in estimated total annual sales across all sectors in 2024.
• $116 million in total tourism-related economic impact, supporting nearly 1 in 4 jobs in the region.
• 89% of businesses report being either thriving (36%) or sustaining (53%).
• 81% of local businesses have fewer than 10 employees, underscoring the importance of small business in the region.
• 51% of businesses plan to hire at least one employee in the next 12 months.
• A 9% overall employment growth is projected between 2024 and 2030.

The survey also highlights Drumheller’s shifting tourism patterns, with April, May, and October now considered peak business months for many local businesses, which positively extends the traditional tourism season. Local sentiment toward tourism is overwhelmingly positive, with 92% of respondents identifying it as a benefit to the region.

Businesses also noted key advantages of operating in Drumheller, including strong community ties and supportive relationships with residents and organizations. While optimism was high, the survey also identified challenges such as seasonality, labour shortages, and limited access to capital.

The full report, compiled by McSweeney & Associates, also draws some comparisons with the 2022 survey, showing continued recovery and growth post-pandemic. The full 2025 Drumheller and Region Business Survey Results and Analysis is available at www.drumheller.ca and through participating partner organizations.

For inquiries related to Drumheller’s economic development and investment opportunities, please contact:

Reg Johnston
Manager of Economic Development
403-823-1316
regjohnston@drumheller.ca