Strathcona County launches Go Strathco to grow tourism and support businesses

Strathcona County has launched Go Strathco, a tourism initiative intended to attract visitors and support economic growth as the County implements a ten-year strategy. The effort promotes local experiences and businesses through a tourism website, guide and digital campaigns.

Sherwood Park News has reported:

Strathcona County has launched Go Strathco, a tourism initiative aimed at attracting visitors and supporting economic growth as the County carries out a ten-year tourism strategy. The initiative builds on the County’s existing experiences, events, natural landscapes and entrepreneurial spirit, while seeking to strengthen local businesses and create a destination residents are proud to share.

The County has long been recognized for a diverse economy supported by industry, agriculture, retail and small businesses. Local leaders saw tourism as an opportunity to build on those strengths as Alberta communities compete for investment, talent and visitors. The decision to diversify is based on visitor spending: travellers use local accommodations, restaurants, retailers, events and attractions, circulating money through the economy and creating opportunities for businesses of all sizes.

Tourism can bring new customers to existing businesses and encourage entrepreneurs to invest in new experiences and services. Go Strathco offers local businesses regional promotion through tools including the Go Guide, digital marketing campaigns, social media channels and the dedicated website, gostrathco.ca. Bringing attractions, retailers, hospitality providers and service businesses together under one recognizable identity is intended to help the County market the destination more effectively and reach new audiences.

The initiative is part of the County’s ongoing implementation of its ten-year tourism strategy. Residents can explore visitor offerings at gostrathco.ca, which also provides resources and industry information for entrepreneurs considering diversification or a new business.

Strathcona County Economic Development and Tourism is available to support business development in the tourism industry. The County says entrepreneurs looking to create a new product or expand an existing one can contact the department for assistance. The column describing the initiative was written and provided by Strathcona County.