From small business growth to major job creation, Surrey positions itself as B.C.’s next economic powerhouse
Surrey isn’t just growing — it’s transforming.
In a forward-looking message, Mayor Brenda Locke outlined the City of Surrey’s ambitious path to becoming British Columbia’s first municipality to reach one million people, a milestone that reflects both the city’s rising appeal and the urgency of strategic planning.
“The future of Surrey is bright,” Locke says. “We’re building a city where families and businesses can thrive — today and tomorrow.”
300,000 Jobs, 1 Vision: Surrey’s 20-Year Economic Blueprint
At the heart of Surrey’s growth strategy is a powerful economic goal: creating 300,000 new jobs over the next two decades, ensuring one job per resident worker as the population climbs.
The city’s newly launched 2024 Surrey Economic Strategy lays out a five-year roadmap focused on:
- Attracting high-quality investments
- Supporting small businesses and employment lands
- Streamlining permits and development approvals
- Encouraging innovation across sectors
It’s all part of Surrey’s mission to shift from regulation to facilitation — cutting red tape and accelerating housing and commercial projects.
Fast-Tracking Growth: Making Development Easier
One of the city’s biggest moves? A major overhaul of how development is processed.
“We’re modernizing and simplifying how we issue permits,” Mayor Locke explains. “By reducing downtime, we’re keeping Surrey attractive to investors and innovators.”
This fast-tracked approach is designed to boost commercial development and housing availability, making Surrey more accessible to both growing families and growing enterprises.
A City for Business, Built for People
Surrey’s strategy isn’t just about economics — it’s about building community.
From revitalizing employment zones to supporting local entrepreneurs, City Council is focused on shaping a city that’s livable, resilient, and opportunity-rich. Whether it’s a family-owned café or a future-facing tech startup, Surrey is laying the groundwork for every type of success story.
Why Surrey? The Economic Hub of Tomorrow
Already known as one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities, Surrey is quickly emerging as a regional economic engine, thanks to its:
- Diverse workforce
- Expanding infrastructure
- Business-friendly environment
- Commitment to innovation and sustainability
“Surrey’s reputation as an economic powerhouse reflects our collective ambition,” says Mayor Locke. “Now, we move forward — together — to shape a future of prosperity for all.”
