Lloydminster‘s economy registered 240 new businesses in 2025 – but the City says not all of them represent brand-new commercial activity.
In response to questions from BorderPulse, the City broke down the figure: roughly 7.83 per cent are short-term licences, 3.9 per cent are existing businesses that recently came into compliance, and 2.17 per cent are not-for-profit organizations. The remaining majority reflect new economic activity.
The clarification matters for readers trying to gauge the health of the local business environment. Even accounting for those categories, the numbers point to meaningful growth.
A retail gap analysis originally planned for 2026 has been pushed to 2027. Economic development staff say the delay is deliberate – not a setback.
The City points to $38,020,260 in permitted new commercial development in 2025, alongside $20,902,693.10 in permitted commercial improvements. Officials say they want those developments built and operating before completing the analysis, so the data reflects current conditions rather than a construction snapshot.
Restoring commercial air service has been a stated priority since WestJet exited the Lloydminster market. The City completed an updated Airport Master Plan, a feasibility study, and carrier pitch materials, and began direct engagement with airlines by early 2024.
Those discussions were then paused – at the request of the Government of Alberta, which was pursuing a broader regional approach at the provincial level.
The City continued internal preparations during that period, including policy updates, airport improvements, and setting aside marketing funding. But no provincial programs or funding have been announced.
As a result, the City says it has resumed direct engagement with carriers. Any viable opportunities will go to council for consideration.
The Economic Development Advisory Committee, formed in September 2025, is preparing to present a draft strategic plan to council in May. The committee met April 30 and May 12 to review the draft. No significant updates were available at the time the City responded to BorderPulse’s questions.
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