Jasper – Residents and businesses in Jasper and Jasper National Park are working hard to recover from the devastating effects that summer wildfires had on the community and the local economy. The Government of Canada is taking action to help Jasper rebuild its economy and re-emerge stronger and more resilient.
Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, on behalf of Dan Vandal, Minister for PrairiesCan, announced over $3.9 million in federal funding to help small businesses in Jasper rebound.
Grants for small businesses
A total of $3.45 million will be invested to launch the Jasper Business Recovery Program, a new grant initiative for small businesses located in Jasper. The program will provide non-repayable funding directly to businesses with 50 or fewer employees that are licensed in either the Municipality of Jasper or Jasper National Park. Sole proprietors in the construction, tourism or events industries will be eligible for up to $5,000 while incorporated businesses can receive up to $10,000. In addition to the funding, the program also includes coaching and business development services. The program will be administered by Community Futures West Yellowhead.
The Jasper Business Recovery Program was created after listening to small businesses that were directly impacted by wildfires. It reflects the need for non-repayable funding to businesses so they can meet financial obligations and directly address the reduction in revenues that resulted from the closure of Jasper National Park during the summer season—when many Jasper businesses are at their busiest. The program strengthens the capacity of small businesses to maintain or restart operations as Jasper rebuilds for residents and welcomes visitors back to the community.
This program is expected to assist 325 small businesses, support more than 500 jobs, and provide business services to 275 clients.
Revitalizing tourism
An additional $500,000 is being provided for Tourism Jasper to encourage visitors to return to Jasper, aiding economic recovery in the community. Funding will enable Tourism Jasper to market and deliver programming—including light installations, ice sculptures, artistic performances, nature-based tours, culinary sampling and activities that highlight Indigenous culture. Activities will take place throughout the winter, spring and fall seasons to attract visitors to downtown Jasper, increasing foot traffic into local businesses. Funds will also be used to expand the 2025 Dark Sky Festival, attracting more overnight visitors outside of the peak season.
“Our government is listening to the residents and businesses of Jasper about how to help them recover from the devastating impacts of last summer’s unprecedented wildfires. These two initiatives we’re announcing today directly respond to the needs of local businesses and will help ensure they can once again provide the services and offerings that are at the heart of this community’s reputation as a destination for visitors from across Canada and around the world.” – Dan Vandal, Minister for PrairiesCan
“Helping small businesses find their footing again is the quickest way to get Jasper’s tourism sector back up and running. That’s why, today, we’re delivering more than $3.9 million in federal grants and business support services to the town’s world-famous destinations. This will help 325 businesses get the funding they need to reopen, it will support 500 good tourism jobs and allow the town to reopen its doors to tourists and residents alike.” – Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages
“From mountain guides to hospitality providers and so many others, small businesses are vital to Jasper’s future. Today’s announcement will provide needed relief and support to hundreds of residents and businesses as they welcome visitors back to Jasper.” – Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada