CALGARY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT RELEASES SURVEY RESULTS EXAMINING BUSINESS AND MARKET CONDITIONS IN THE CALGARY REGION

2010 business survey shows improved confidence for 2011

(CALGARY) - The cost of doing business and general economic issues are top of mind for Calgary businesses according to the results of Calgary Economic Development's 2010 business survey, released today. Survey responses demonstrate that Calgary's business community has a more tempered and realistic look forward including a growing intent to hire in 2011.

Calgary Economic Development's (CED) annual business survey is designed to examine business and market conditions in the Calgary region to assist CED in performing its mandate to lead, facilitate and advance Calgary's economic development efforts to attract and retain business investment. Conducted by Research & Insights Consulting Inc., an independent Calgary-based market research firm, the Calgary-wide survey of 403 businesses took place in June 2010. Respondents included companies working in a variety of industry sectors in Calgary with a business size ranging from one to 500+ employees.

"We heard from all a variety of roles from all sectors of the economy, giving us a strong sample for the survey," said Katie Emond, Research Manager, Calgary Economic Development. "The survey results will help shape our business planning and priorities as we prepare for 2011 and determine how we can best influence the economic vitality and well-being of Calgary".

The measured optimism of survey respondents confirms business confidence for upcoming years as also presented by both Craig Alexander (TD Bank Financial Group) and Mario Lefebvre (Conference Board of Canada) at the Calgary Economic Development 2011 Economic Outlook on September 23.

For full business survey results and to view keynote presentations from the 2011 Economic Outlook, please visit www.calgaryeconomicdevelopment.com.

View the Calgary Economic Development 2010 business survey.