Your Weekly Tune Up
Market Power Mitigation Regulations
The Market Power Mitigation Regulation, that took effect on July 1, prevents power price spikes for Albertans’ on variable rate contracts. Within weeks of being implemented, the regulation protected Albertans on variable rate contracts from price spikes when a summer heat wave drove up demand, at a time when access to power was critical. Independent reports have estimated this regulation will save Albertans more than $8 billion over the next decade. Find out more.
Interested in Serving on the Employment Insurance Board of Appeals?
The Employment Insurance Board of Appeal has the responsibility of hearing and deciding first-level Employment Insurance appeals with respect to eligibility for benefits under the Employment Insurance program. It is replacing the existing Social Security Tribunal Employment Insurance Section for first level Employment Insurance appeals. The Board of Appeal’s mandate is to provide simple, quick, fair, and client-centric quasi-judicial services to employment insurance claimants and employers. If interested, candidates must apply online by October 14 11:59 pm EST. Find out more.
Local Employer Survey: Help Shape the Future
Employers in Medicine Hat and Region! We need your help. Medicine Hat Economic Development, along with our partners, is working on a Labour Market Profile. Your input will provide us with the information needed to better support businesses and job seekers. Please take a few minutes to complete our survey by mid-September!
Survey Link: https://bit.ly/3XrVeiJ
Advocacy in Action
Lisa Dressler, executive director of the Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce, says Medicine Hat city council should push back confirmation of the off-site levy bylaw. Eli J. Ridder/CHAT News
Offsite Levy Request for Postponement and Consultation – Approved!
Since our last correspondence and presentation to Council in 2022, we had the opportunity to meet with City staff in December 2022 to discuss the next steps for the off-site levy consultations with consultations and discussions in 2023 and 2024.
Since that time, there have continued to be outstanding questions and concerns from the development community around the model and cost accounting used.
Through the MGA Off-Site Levy Amendments 2021 Implementation Fact Sheet, it states: “Municipalities must make the following information publicly available:
• Any information or data the municipality relied upon and any assumptions the municipality made in calculating the levy, including, without limitation, any information, data or assumptions the municipality used in models to complete calculations. s.648.2(6)(a).
• The calculations that were performed in order to determine the amount of the levy. s.648.2(6)(b)”.
You can view the Chamber’s letter and submission to City Council online. Watch the offsite levy hearing: https://www.youtube.com/live/GFSLzaReL1Q?si=F4LTOodICEzxr0m8&t=3308 and the interview with Chat TV: https://chatnewstoday.ca/2024/09/05/noon-interview-lisa-dressler-sept-5/ as well as the coverage from Chat News Today: https://chatnewstoday.ca/2024/09/03/medicine-hat-city-council-delays-approval-of-new-off-site-levy/. We are pleased that City council voted to postpone the decision until further consultation with the development community occurred.
Advocacy is not a job, it is a responsibility. Without it, Canada would fail
Mac Van Wielingen, the immediate past chair of the Business Council of Alberta, offered remarks upon recently completing his term as chair of the Business Council of Alberta on the essential role of advocacy.
“Advocacy is a responsibility, in some way or form, and to some degree, for each of us, for all citizens, in order to be healthy as individuals and to create strong communities. The resources and platforms we have as leaders in business offer the opportunity to amplify the influence of our advocacy and have greater impact. This is highly relevant for all of us as leaders in Alberta and similarly for leaders in our neighbouring provinces.”
“To describe advocacy as a responsibility is not to imply a burden. It is an opportunity to build deeper meaningful relationships with others within our community and to gain the positive satisfaction that comes from contribution. Personally, I feel a great deal of satisfaction, and even gratitude, for having the privilege of advocating for Albertans and to have been so involved in the development of the Business Council of Alberta. It has been one of the most enriching and fulfilling experiences of my career. “
The Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce has been pleased to be able to work with the Alberta Business Council and their goal of making life better, tapping into their knowledge, resources and thought leadership, particularly in relation to their report on Defining the Decade. At the Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce, we believe deeply in the influence that advocacy can have and the powerful impact of unifying voices for creative solutions for our region and community. Check out more about us and our vision here: https://www.southeastalbertachamber.ca/aboutus/
Doing Business with Municipalities
Did you know that municipalities work with companies such as Kinetic GPO or Canoe for group purchasing opportunities?
Group purchasing is used for goods to create a buying advantage and we know there are some local companies that are vendors in the group purchasing agreements, but it would be great to have more local companies become aware of these options available. Local companies can bid on these opportunities, which is the same process as other bidding. Opportunities are often available to bid on through APC and Merx, but more recently Canoe posted on Bids and Tenders.
Canoe is inviting all vendors interested in becoming a Canoe Approved Supplier to register for their free Zoom webinar about
Doing Business with Canoe presented by Tony De Sciscio, Contract Manager at Canoe. Interested vendors must register at https://rmalberta.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEpd-GtqTgrGt0expzfASKGxx7tFrKPsjHF
Webinar Date: September 24, 2024 9:00 MT. For additional information about our Canoe, please visit our website https://canoeprocurement.ca/suppliers/get-approved/
Find out more:https://canoe.bidsandtenders.ca/Module/Tenders/en/Tender/Detail/35538c9c-93cd-4bb3-b931-108b053c879c
The Southeast Alberta Chamber has been working with the City of Medicine Hat procurement department over many years about procurement and how to improve the opportunities for local businesses to be more successful in these opportunities. From hosting Selling to Government seminars, to regular meetings with City Purchasing, there have been improvements made in policies and practices and there is ongoing updates and changes. You can find out more about City of Medicine Hat purchasing here: https://www.medicinehat.ca/en/government-and-city-hall/purchasing-and-procurement.aspx
If you’re in the Brooks-Newell region, you can sign up for bid notifications from the City of Brooks here: https://www.brooks.ca/Bids.aspx. Opportunities such as group purchasing with Canoe are open to any vendor.
Next Level Events
September Grand Openings!
Come and celebrate the milestones of these businesses with us. A chance to network, get out and support local! Check out the grand opening calendar here.
Sept. 12th | Diaz Osteopathy & Massage | More info here
Sept. 21st | Gott Garage Door Services | More info here
Sept. 23rd | Southern Gas & Safety | More info here
Coffee & Conversations
Join the Chamber Thursday, September 19th at 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM to enjoy coffee and conversations about your business, our business, or life in general! This is a great opportunity to connect in the mornings if your afternoons and evenings are too busy. You can stop by for a quick hello or stay and chat for a while; everyone is welcome! This month's location... Station Coffee Co. downtown!
Free registration (let us know you're coming) and more info here
Employment Law Training Webinars
Community Futures invites you to an upcoming session on Job Protected Leaves, featuring HR expert Tina Leisle and Godwin Doo from Alberta Standards. This free webinar will take place on September 18th, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM.
Key topics include essentials for maintaining compliance and protecting both your employees and your business. With Tina's expertise in HR and Godwin's knowledge of Alberta Standards, this webinar will provide valuable insights into how job-protected leave policies can be effectively implemented in your workplace. To register, follow this link!
Did you know, Tina Leisle from Red Rock HR is a Chamber member and provides other Chamber members with discounts on her services? Check out more here.
Celebrate Alberta Culture Days this September
During the month of September, Albertans are encouraged to take part in events across the province to learn more about the cultures that shape Alberta’s unique identity. Artists, cultural groups, writers, dancers, filmmakers and musicians will be displaying their works of art and culture all month long, reflecting Alberta’s rich cultural fabric. Alberta Culture Days is also a time to highlight and celebrate all the amazing cultures that make our province so vibrant. Alberta Culture Days is a great way to celebrate the diversity that makes our province one of the best place to live, work and raise a family. Check out local events for Alberta Culture Days in:
Bassano on September 13th-14th,
Brooks has various dates including Taste of Nations on September 21, Flatland Music Festival on September 27 & 28 and the Sagebrush Art Show on September 27th & 28th,
and Medicine Hat has various dates including Culture Days on September 15, Celebrating our Indigenous Culture on September 21, the Metis Kitchen Party on September 22 and Art in Motion on September 28th.
Enriching Your Business
There's a reason Chambers Plan is Canada's #1 plan.
JoAnne Letkeman, Exclusive Chamber Group Advisor
Medicine Hat & District | (403) 504-2166 ext 1.
Scott Walls, Exclusive Chamber Group Advisor
Brooks-Newell Region | (403) 892-9675
Fueling the Business Community
• NEW MEMBERS •
We would like to welcome Grizzly Ridge Electrical Ltd, the City of Brooks, and Brooks & District Museum & Historical Society to the Chamber Family!
We continually look forward to helping our members during their business journey and wish each the best in all future endeavors. We are extremely happy to have such amazing members, and are very glad that we can serve a part in that journey! Keep your eye out for more new member posts moving forward!
Master your business exit strategy with Grant Thornton
Exiting a business is a pivotal decision for business owners and understanding the entire process—from preparation to negotiation—is crucial.
Our expertise supports business owners in gathering essential information and tools for the journey ahead. If you’re currently considering an exit, see how Grant Thornton can help here.
The Aerial Evolution Association of Canada (AEAC) to host 2025 Annual National Student Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Competition in Medicine Hat
Community Futures Entre-Corp announced that Southeast Alberta has been selected to host the Aerial Evolution Association of Canada’s 16th Annual Student UAS Competition! This event will take place in Medicine Hat May 9th-11th, 2025.
This exciting event marks a significant milestone for the region, known for its rich history in aerospace and UAS, including the unique Foremost UAS Test Range and the renowned DRDC Suffield Research Centre.
The Aerial Evolution Association of Canada National Student UAS Competition has been a cornerstone event for 15 years, advancing Canada's position as a global leader in autonomous aerial systems technologies.
This competition offers students from across Canada the opportunity to address real-world challenges, develop innovative solutions, and gain hands-on experience in simulated Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations. The event is a crucial stepping stone for future leaders in the commercial drone sector. Find out more.
Elavon Limited Time Promotion: $100 Statement Credit Offer for New Chamber Members
Accept payments, any time from anywhere! Elavon offer a variety of point-of-sale solutions that make it easy for your business to securely and efficiently accept payments the way that your customers want to pay. Open a new payment processing account for your business by October 31, 2024 and you will be eligible to receive a $100 statement credit.*
How Members Can Participate:
- Submit a web inquiry through the Elavon Chamber landing page (https://join.paymentstart.com/cachamber).
- Our dedicated sales representatives will promptly reach out for a consultation within 24- 48 hours
- Complete the sign-up process by October 31st, 2024, and members will be qualified to receive $100 Statement credit
Visit join.paymentstart.com/cachamber to learn more.
Fill Up On Funding
Empowering women through scholastic support
For four years, Alberta has offered the Women in STEM Scholarship, which helps women enter Alberta’s thriving STEM industries. In addition, Alberta has offered the Persons Case Scholarship for 45 years, which helps students enter fields that advance gender equality. Alberta’s government awarded $225,000 through these scholarships in 2023-24, supporting 90 students across Alberta with scholarships of $2,500 each.
Alberta’s government is creating a new scholarship to help break down barriers for women in growing Alberta industries like film, television and music through the creation of the Women in Technical and Applied Arts Scholarship.
This scholarship is the first provincially funded scholarship of its kind in Canada, and will support the development of Alberta-based talent among women pursuing careers in the technical arts, music production, film and television. This new scholarship will provide successful applicants $2,500 toward their post-secondary education. Find out more
Female Founder World x VistaPrint Grant
Female Founder World connects a rising generation of small business owners with the people and resources you need to build your dreams. Now, thanks to partners at VistaPrint, they are offering a one-time $15,000 cash grant to one business in our ecosystem to help fuel your growth PLUS marketing support from VistaPrint.
Apply now | Applications close September 17, 2024
CFSEA Launches Fall Grant Cycle
All registered charities, qualified donees, and non-profit groups are welcome to apply. The Community Foundation of Southeastern Alberta has four rural community funds – Cypress County Community Fund, Brooks & District Community Fund, the Rural Community Fund of Forty Mile, and the Prairie Crocus Community Fund (including Special Areas 2, 3, 4 and the MD of Acadia. Grant applications from these regions will be reviewed by local advisory committees familiar with the area and needs within their community.
All applications will be reviewed by the Grants Committee which is comprised of Board Members and knowledgeable community members. The committees consider all eligible applications and make recommendations to the Board of Directors. CFSEA prioritizes impact and equitable regional support. If you want to learn more about CFSEA’s Community Grants, email grants@cfsea.ca and visit the Community Grants page at www.cfsea.ca. Deadline to submit an online application is September 16th at noon.
Brooks-Newell Region News
Brooks Municipal Meeting
Our next Municipal Planning Commission Meeting will be held on September 18th at 8:30 am.
You can view it streaming live on Facebook.
Agenda: https://www.brooks.ca/AgendaCenter
Business Beautification Program
Do you want to give your business a makeover? Regional businesses can apply for up to $10,000 in funding of which 80% would be an interest free loan and 20% would be a grant. Successful applicants could receive up to an $8,000 loan and a $2,000 grant!
The purpose of this program is to encourage and provide Brooks Newell Region businesses with an opportunity to improve the appearance of their business.
Any business within the defined boundaries of the City of Brooks, County of Newell, Town of Bassano and Villages of Duchess and Rosemary may apply. Learn more on our website, or visit Community Futures Chinook!
2024 Brooks Home + Leisure Tradeshow
We are excited to bring Southeast Alberta's largest and longest running tradeshow to Brooks this fall. Booths are still available and selling fast, Oct 4,5,6 at JBS Canada Centre. Booths start at just $625 (members get 10% discount) and included pipe and drape, table, 2 chairs and dedicated power outlet. Limited bulk space is available for anyone wanting a larger show presence and more square footage. Food vendors are welcome. Artisan and home based business's can purchase space in our dedicated artisan market for a reduced price.
Learn more and Register here: https://chamber.southeastalbertachamber.ca/chambercalendar/Details/2024-brooks-home-leisure-tradeshow-1094191?sourceTypeId=Website
Crossword Puzzle
Crossword Puzzle Answers
Did you figure it out? Here are the answers for the September 3rd crossword puzzle.
Remember that subscribing to our weekly email gets you access to the crossword puzzle. Anyone who sends us their answers will get their name put into our quarterly draw.
The prize? Receive 5 promotional credits with us (for members) or credit towards a membership (for non-members)! Oh and bragging rights that you're a crossword master.
Other News
Other Resources
Alberta Economy - Indicators at a Glance
August Economic Trends
Labour Market Notes – Unemployment rate jumps despite job gains
BDC: How to Get a Business Loan
BDC: Create a Leaner More Profitable Business
BDC: Fall focus: Strategies to grow your business
14 Onboarding Best Practices (Forbes Advisor)
Onboard New Hires (The Inclusive Workplace)
21 tips for creating an Instagram marketing strategy
How does your financial literacy compare to that of other business owners? Complete the BDC quiz to answer the same 10 questions we asked business owners in our report.
Other Events
Alberta Employment Standards Webinars | Register
BDC Financial Fundamentals | Register
September 17 | Web Presence 101 - Ensuring Your Foundation is Set | Register
September 24 | Introduction to Disability Management and Occupational Health & Safety | Register
October 8 | Protecting Our Future: Health, Safety, and Employment Standards for Young Workers | Register
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