Date of Conferral

2018

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Business Administration

Advisor

Mohammad Sharifzadeh

Abstract

The apparent decline in conventional crude oil reserves creates concern about how to meet future global oil demand. The Canadian oil sands industry could help to fill the gap in projected world oil supply; however, the oil sands industry in Canada is operating below capacity because local investors lack the funds needed for sufficient development. Foreign direct investment could enhance the quick evolution of the oil sands industry in Canada. The purpose of this case study research was to explore the effects of foreign direct investment on the development of the oil sands industry in Canada by examining the case of a company in Alberta, Canada where foreign direct investment has occurred. The conceptual framework for this study is foreign direct investment and host country economic growth. A purposeful sampling method was used to select 15 professionals from the case study company and professionals familiar with the case from the oil sands industry and government agencies. The data collection methods involved the review of the case study company financial and production records and the use of face-to-face and telephone interviews. Collected data were analyzed using the thematic analysis and percentage analysis approaches. The participants acknowledged the effects of the oil sands sector in the development of the community in areas such as increased population, infrastructural and real estate development. The participants also viewed the industry as a major contributor to the revenue of the various levels of government and an employer of labor. The benefit of the study includes stimulating more interest to the oil sands industry from the government, investors and other scholars. The study could lead to social change, as it provides opportunities for increased revenue for the government, more jobs, improved infrastructural facilities, and improved standard of living.

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