City Releases Updated Business Retention and Expansion Strategy

The City of Abbotsford is pleased to release an updated Business Retention and Expansion Strategy and action plan, designed to support and grow local businesses and reinforce Abbotsford’s position as the economic Hub of the Fraser Valley.

The strategy was developed through extensive engagement and focused consultation and helped identify key priorities and actionable steps to enhance Abbotsford’s vibrant and diverse economy while supporting the growth of over 7,700 businesses currently operating in Abbotsford.

Key areas of focus and goals of the new strategy and supporting action plan include:

• Enhanced support for Abbotsford businesses navigating municipal processes;
• Enhanced and new online resources for businesses centralized in one location through the creation of a “one-stop shop” webpage;
• Strengthened relationships and communications with the businesses through an enhanced business visitation program and regular surveys;
• Facilitated collaboration between businesses and education/training providers to share workforce needs and develop marketing initiatives to support employee recruitment and retention; and,
• Facilitated and enhanced collaboration and information sharing with local First Nations on economic development matters.

All Things Business - One-stop Shop

As part of the strategy, the City has launched an updated webpage, which includes a new Business Hub and online Business Resource Guide, to create a one-stop shop for all things business within Abbotsford.

The City of Abbotsford has a robust range of resources for your business needs:

2024 Economic Impact for Corporate Partnership in Abbotsford

The City’s Corporate Partnerships program works with Abbotsford businesses and organizations to enhance and reduce costs for City activities and programs.

In 2024 these partnerships provided over $90,000 of in-kind services that made our programs even better! We had incredible partnerships this year. McDonalds supported our Summer in the Park day camps with free fishing lessons to campers with help from Fred’s Custom Tackle. Choices Market partnered with us to support our Beyond the Bell program with monthly snack deliveries all year. And Fortis BC brought free public swims to Centennial Pool for the Abbotsford community to enjoy.

Be sure to check out partnership opportunities for Volunteer Appreciation Day, Canada Day and other City events for 2025. See how your business can bring a positive impact, and get recognition at City of Abbotsford programs and events.

The Indigenous Businesses Working Group is Seeking Your Creative Vision

The Indigenous Businesses Group has an exciting opportunity for Indigenous videographers in early 2025. 

• Connect and interview Indigenous businesses and artisans in Abbotsford
• Produce a short video/short video series that showcases the authenticity, culture and history of Indigenous-made products, and reveals their challenges
• Get paid for your work!
• All applicants will receive mentorship and access to entrepreneurship/training activities in 2025

The Indigenous Businesses Working Group is a sub-group of the Economic Development Table. It is Chaired by Stό:lō Community Futures, and members include Sema:th Xo:tsa Developments LP/LTD, Leq’á:mel First Nation, the Fraser Valley Métis Association and the City of Abbotsford.

Be sure to stay tuned for more details coming soon!

January 2025 - Get to Know the Zero Carbon Step Code Workshop Series

The City of Abbotsford is offering a series of three Zero Carbon Step Code workshops in January 2025. These 4-hour sessions are delivered through a blend of lectures and workshop activities to ensure participants stay engaged and maximize their understanding of the BC Building Code’s Zero Carbon Step Code. Sessions are suitable for builders, architects, designers, building inspectors, energy advisors, contractors, trades, real estate agents, and those interested in high performance building systems, processes and best practices. 4 CPD credits are available for each session. In partnership with BCIT, Canadian Homebuilder's Association Fraser Valley, City of Chilliwack and City of Mission, and funded by BC Hydro. 

• January 14 - Introduction to the Zero Carbon Step Code
• January 21 - Zero Cabron Step Code in Practice
• January 29 - Zero Carbon Step Code Applied to Your Practice

View the workshop series flyer and register!

Business Community Events

1. Dismantling Barriers - Access to Capital, a WLC event: Save the date for January 22, and join the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce's Women's Leadership Council in dismantling barriers and accessing capital.

2. Pacific Agriculture Show: The annual Pacific Agriculture Show is back at Tradex, January 23-25. Be sure to purchase your tickets to discover the latest trends, innovative equipment and technology in the agriculture industry.

Mayor and Council Updates

Mayor and Council are actively involved in our community representing the City at local events, openings, tours, and meetings with senior levels of government and other stakeholders. View some of the important work being done by your City Council by checking out the most recent council briefs and blogs as well as photos of Council in the city!

• Council Brief
• Blog Posts
  • The City of Abbotsford is proud to share our Top 24 of ’24 achievements, highlighting a busy year of progress, innovation and community-focused projects, initiatives, and services aimed at enhancing the quality of life for current and future residents. From securing record-breaking grants to advancing sustainability and supporting housing, this work emphasizes the City’s dedication to building a brighter future for all. Make sure to check out the full list of the City's Achievements!

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Table Talk

Table Talk offers a forum to promote and share news focused on economic development including business resources and grants, programs, updates and events for the business community. The mission of Table Talk is to cultivate and grow economic development relationships.

We want to hear from you! Email us at econdev@abbotsford.ca to learn more about the Table or to share your news via Table Talk.