New Funding Announced to Explore a Creative Industries Hub in Southern Alberta

Lethbridge, AB… Economic Development Lethbridge (EDL) is pleased to announce funding support from the Government of Alberta’s Northern and Regional Economic Development (NRED) Program to explore the creation of a Creative Industries Hub in Southwest Alberta. This pivotal feasibility study—supported by 16 community and industry partners—will evaluate the potential for a regional hub that supports growth in film, digital media, e-sports, and game development.

This initiative represents a significant step in diversifying the local economy, amplifying Indigenous and BIPOC creative voices, and fostering industry collaboration that can stimulate cultural tourism, talent retention, and job creation. The study will examine infrastructure needs, workforce development opportunities, and the broader economic impact of a future-ready hub rooted in innovation and inclusion.

“Building a hub that supports creative industries is a bold step toward strengthening our cultural economy, retaining local talent, and ensuring that Southwest Alberta is seen as a destination for innovation and storytelling,” said Renae Barlow, VP of Entrepreneurship & Innovation at EDL. “This project will lay the foundation for a thriving ecosystem that elevates diverse voices and empowers our region’s creative entrepreneurs to succeed.”

How to Participate:

Creative professionals, entrepreneurs, and organizations working in film, digital content, gaming, or e-sports are invited to participate in upcoming engagement sessions. These sessions will help shape the vision and design of the hub, ensuring it meets the real needs of those working within the sector. Interested stakeholders can fill out the form by visiting the creative industries section of our website.

Specific details on dates and opportunities for input will be released in the coming weeks and can be found on the Choose Lethbridge website and on EDL’s social media channels

Call for Contractor Proposals:

EDL is currently seeking a qualified consultancy or firm to lead this groundbreaking study. The Request for Proposals (RFP) is now open and outlines a comprehensive scope that includes industry analysis, stakeholder engagement, and an implementation roadmap.

• Ideal applicants will have:
• Proven experience conducting feasibility studies in creative and digital industries
• A track record of inclusive community engagement with Indigenous, rural, and underrepresented populations
• Familiarity with emerging technologies such as Generative AI
• Capacity to deliver a robust strategic plan that includes infrastructure needs, economic projections, and investment attraction strategies

Contractors will also be supported by two graduate assistants from the University of Lethbridge, contributing to outreach, research, and community engagement efforts.

The deadline for proposal submissions May 2, by 4:00 PM MST.

For full RFP details and submission guidelines, please click here or email: info@chooselethbridge.ca with subject line: Creative Industries Hub Feasibility Study Proposal – [Company Name].

This initiative will run until March 2026, with results and recommendations expected to shape long-term strategies that uplift creative economies in Southern Alberta.