The economy in Chilliwack is diverse, with several key industry sectors leading the way in terms of economic impact and employment. New business investment in these sectors is creating opportunities for ongoing growth of the local economy.
Agriculture is essential to Chilliwack’s economy and community. Chilliwack is home to one of the largest concentrations of farmland in BC, with approximately 17,300 hectares dedicated to agricultural production. Agriculture accounts for nearly 30% of local economic activity and supports a diverse network of growers, processors, suppliers, and service providers.
Chilliwack’s moderate climate, fertile soils, and reliable water resources support a wide range of farming activities including dairy, poultry, greenhouse, and nursery operations. Chilliwack also produces berries, vegetables, floriculture crops, specialty crops, and livestock.
Why Chilliwack?
Manufacturing is a key driver of Chilliwack’s economy, producing goods that are sold across Canada and around the world. Chilliwack supports a diverse range of manufacturing businesses, from advanced technology companies to traditional industrial operations.
Local manufacturers operate in sectors such as machinery, transportation, equipment, metal fabrication, wood products, aviation and aerospace, energy services, and food and beverage production. Businesses benefit from access to skilled workers, industrial land, transportation infrastructure, and regional supply chains.
Chilliwack offers manufacturers the opportunity to grow in a business-friendly environment with access to major markets and supply chains throughout western Canada and the Pacific Northwest. The sector continues to attract investment from companies seeking a cost-effective alternative to Metro Vancouver with the ability to compete in a global economy.
Why Chilliwack?
Chilliwack is one of BC’s leading food and beverage processing locations. Situated in a highly productive agricultural region, processors have direct access to high-quality local ingredients, including dairy, poultry, meat, berries, vegetables, grains, and specialty crops.
The city is home to a growing cluster of food and beverage companies ranging from specialized processors to internationally recognized brands like Molson Coors and Red Bull. Businesses benefit from proximity to suppliers, transportation infrastructure, and major consumer markets.
The Chilliwack Food and Beverage Processing Park has helped attract significant investment and provides room for future expansion. The sector continues to grow as companies look for efficient locations to manufacture, package, and distribute products throughout North America.
The Food and Agriculture Institute (FAI) at the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) is an interdisciplinary research centre that focuses on issues, challenges, and sustainability solutions related to food and farm systems. FAI partners with researchers, industry leaders, and governments to build knowledge and tools for moving toward sustainable, resilient food systems for communities and regions in British Columbia, Canada, and across the globe.
Why Chilliwack?
The aviation and aerospace sector continues to grow in Chilliwack, supported by the Chilliwack Airport (YCW) and a strong community of aviation-related businesses.
The airport supports flight training, aircraft maintenance and repair, charter services, aircraft painting, specialty aviation services, and private aircraft operations. Its strategic location in the Fraser Valley provides convenient access to the Lower Mainland while offering lower operating costs than major metropolitan airports.
Chilliwack provides aviation businesses with the space to grow, access to a skilled workforce, and a business-friendly environment that supports long-term success.
Why Chilliwack?
Tourism plays an important role in Chilliwack’s economy and continues to grow as more visitors discover the area’s natural attractions, outdoor recreation opportunities, and unique experiences.
Located between mountains, rivers, and lakes, Chilliwack offers year-round activities including hiking, fishing, paddling, camping, agritourism, sightseeing, and cultural experiences. Visitors are drawn from across British Columbia, Canada, and international markets.
Tourism supports local accommodations, restaurants, retailers, transportation providers, recreation operators, and event organizers. Continued investment in tourism infrastructure and experiences is creating new opportunities for business development throughout the sector.
Why Chilliwack?
Chilliwack is a strategic distribution and logistics location for companies serving markets across British Columbia, Western Canada, the United States, and the Pacific Rim.
Chilliwack provides efficient access to Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, major border crossings, rail networks, and the Port of Vancouver.
The community offers industrial development opportunities, competitive operating costs, and access to a growing regional workforce. These advantages continue to attract warehousing, distribution, transportation, and logistics companies looking to expand their operations.
Why Chilliwack?