Like any grassroots movement, our Alliance began with a small group of concerned citizens. In our case, these citizens were Mayors who wanted to strengthen the voice of our rural communities - a voice that would resonate with greater potency throughout the province of Alberta and beyond.  After all, these communities represent one of the most beautiful geographic areas in the country, sweeping from the prairies straight into the Rocky Mountains.  This beauty is complemented by a very rich history and culture. 

These Mayors recognized that there was strength in numbers. By combining resources and information, they could shine a light on this region that would do two things:

1. Draw more tourism to the area.
2. Consolidate efforts to get the government support needed to allow these communities to grow and prosper.

The first shared success came in the late 1990's with a marketing campaign that played upon two unique features of the region - the history of the North West Mounted Police and the stunning Rocky mountains.  This gave rise to a new name for the region: "Mounties to Mountains".

Other Historical Highlights

2003
A joint-venture agreement was signed by 11 communities and formed the "Mounties to Mountain Economic Regional Initiative". 

2005
The activities expanded far beyond tourism marketing and now included 14 communities.  After many months of collaboration, the name Alberta SouthWest emerged with a bright new "signpost" logo showing the region's openness to business opportunities, and welcoming visitors to experience its historic sites and recreational attractions.

2007
Alberta SouthWest Regional Alliance Ltd. was incorporated as a non-profit corporation under Part 9 of The Companies Act (Alberta).  The Municipal District of Ranchland No. 66 became the 15th member of the allilance.