Lethbridge businesses optimistic for 2026, according to Brighter Together survey

The latest Brighter Together Business Survey shows a majority of local businesses are optimistic about 2026.

Downtown businesses also feel the area is starting to shed its negative reputation.

Sixty-four per cent of businesses surveyed said they feel optimistic.

Businesses also pointed to the presence of post-secondary schools and proximity to complementary industries as positives.

Downtown businesses felt more positive about programs for the downtown, with the Clean Sweep Program and the growing number of events in Festival Square topping the list.

“(The) survey does ask some downtown-specific questions, so we can get a better read on what the health of the downtown is, and we scored better on every aspect in terms of level of satisfaction with downtown programs and attributes,” said Sarah Amies, Downtown Lethbridge BRZ executive director.

High insurance and labour costs were listed as some of the top obstacles for businesses this year.