Immigration Isn’t Charity, It’s Strategy: The Economic Case for Newcomers in Alberta

Hot Dogs & Hot Takes on History

What if one of Alberta's greatest economic assets isn't oil, technology, or capital, but talent?
As Alberta grapples with labour shortages, an aging population, housing pressures, and growing competition for skilled workers, immigration remains one of the province's most debated issues. But are we asking the right questions?

At Hot Dogs & Hot Takes on History this October, CEO of the Centre for Newcomers Nketti Johnston-Taylor challenges conventional thinking and makes the case that immigration is not primarily a social policy issue. It is an economic strategy. Drawing on evidence from business, government, and economic research, she explores how newcomers drive growth, innovation, entrepreneurship, and workforce sustainability, while highlighting Alberta's greatest untapped opportunity: better utilizing the talent already here.