The Voice: July 22nd, 2025
Building Business Resilience, City of Medicine Hat - Procurement Opportunities, County Approves Solar for Farm Efficiency and more all in this week's edition of The Voice.
Business News
Building Business Resilience
Alberta Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to supporting businesses across Alberta to swiftly respond and adapt to disruptions or unplanned changes affecting operations, people, assets, or reputation.
Alberta Launches Fourteen Regional Health Councils
Alberta has launched 14 regional advisory councils, made up of 150 members from 71 communities, to enhance local involvement in health care planning and delivery. The councils will advise Alberta’s four health ministries and newly restructured health agencies: Primary Care Alberta, Acute Care Alberta, Assisted Living Alberta and Recovery Alberta. Additionally, the province is working to establish an Indigenous Advisory Council, which will focus on improving health care services for Indigenous communities across the province.
Learn more | View the members of region 14 in Southeast Alberta
Alberta's Heritage Fund reaches new heights
By investing in the Heritage Fund, by 2050 Alberta will be on the path to energize its economy, create new opportunities and fund projects that make life better for all Albertans. Alberta’s government invested $2.8 billion from the 2024-25 surplus cash in the Heritage Fund, growing the fund to $30 billion from $27.2 billion in 2024-25. This contribution marks a new record for the fund and keeps the province on track to reach its goal of $250 billion by 2050. The goal is to grow the fund to the point where, after 2050, Alberta would be able to withdraw some of the income the fund earns each year while still allowing it to grow over time. Those withdrawals could help cover fluctuations in resource revenue, invest in important infrastructure and keep taxes low.
Alberta to become first province to regulate health care aides
Alberta’s 40,000 health care aides play a vital role in the health system, providing hands-on support to Albertans who need a high level of care, including seniors and those with chronic or acute illnesses. Starting Feb. 2, 2026, health care aides in Alberta will be regulated under a professional college – just like many other front-line health professionals.
Medicine Hat-Cypress News
City of Medicine Hat - Procurement Opportunities
- Supply and Delivery of New Transit Buses - Bid Closing Date: Tue Jul 22, 2025
- Procurement Support Services for Operations and ERP System Integration - Bid closing Date: Thu Jul 31, 2025
- Stormwater System Flushing and CCTV Inspection Program - Bid closing Date: Thu Jul 31, 2025
- Water Management and Adaptation Strategy - Bid closing Date: Thu Aug 14, 2025
- Supply & Delivery of Switchgear & Control Buildings - Bid closing Date: Tue Aug 26, 2025
Medicine Hat Neat to Know: Why vote?
Over the coming weeks, we’ll explore some of the compelling reasons why participating in your local municipal election is crucial.
Municipal governments shape your daily life.
In Alberta, local governments are responsible for services that have a direct and immediate impact on your daily lives, such as roads, public transit, waste management, water services, emergency response, parks, and recreation facilities. By electing local school board trustees, your vote can also influence our community’s youth on a daily basis. These are the services closest to you, and often those that matter most, so have your say by voting for candidates you believe in.
Medicine Hat’s municipal election is Monday, October 20, 2025.
Brooks-Newell News
Burn Barrel Ban in growth hamlets
The County of Newell has officially banned the use of burn barrels in the growth hamlets of Lake Newell Resort, Rolling Hills, Scandia, and Tilley.
This measure is to reduce the risk of fires and help protect homes, properties, and air quality.
Looking for news in the Brooks-Newell Region?
Check out the Chamber's website for municipal resources containing more information on the Brooks-Newell area. The "Communities we serve" tab highlights recent activity in the region. Learn more.
Advocacy in Action
What IS Advocacy and Why Does it Matter?
When you hear the word advocacy, you might think of politics, but in the business world advocacy is something much more practical—and powerful. It’s about making sure your voice is heard when decisions are being made that affect your business, your industry, and your community.
So, What Exactly Is Advocacy?
At its core, advocacy is speaking up on behalf of a cause, issue, or group. For Chambers of Commerce and business owners, that means working to influence public policy, regulations, and laws that impact the local business environment.
Advocacy can take many forms:
- Meeting with government officials to discuss business-friendly policies
- Writing letters or signing petitions about proposed legislation
- Attending city council meetings or public hearings
- Partnering with other businesses to raise awareness about key issues
Why Should Business Owners Care?
You’re busy running your business—so why should advocacy be on your radar? Here are a few key reasons:
1. Protect Your Interests
Laws and regulations can have a direct impact on your bottom line. Whether it’s rising regulatory taxes, fees and charges, zoning issues, labour laws, or environmental regulations, staying informed and involved helps ensure that new rules support—not hinder—your ability to succeed.
2. Shape the Future of Your Community
Advocacy isn’t just about saying “no” to policies—it’s also about saying “yes” to opportunities. Want better infrastructure, more development, or a stronger workforce? Advocacy helps bring those ideas to life.
3. Amplify Your Voice
When you work with your Chamber of Commerce, you’re not alone. The Chamber represents a collective voice that carries more weight with decision-makers than any one business can on its own.
4. Stay Ahead of the Curve
Being involved in advocacy helps you stay informed about upcoming changes and trends. That means fewer surprises—and more time to prepare and adapt.
How the Chamber Helps:
Your Chamber of Commerce is your partner in advocacy. We monitor local, provincial, and federal news to keep you informed and take action on your behalf when issues affect you. We also provide opportunities for you to get involved—whether that’s attending events like our Leadership Breakfast, joining a committee, or simply sharing your story.
Final Thought:
Advocacy isn’t just for big corporations or political insiders. It’s for every business owner who wants a say in the future of their business and their community. By staying engaged and working together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant local economy—one voice at a time.
Resources:
- Advocacy Insights
Business advocacy is more than just representing interests—it’s about shaping policies that propel our entire region forward. Informed, collaborative advocacy is a pillar of a thriving business ecosystem.
- Our Active Policies
Our active policies are the backbone of our advocacy efforts, addressing key issues that impact our local economy. These policies reflect the needs and concerns of our diverse business community, from startups to established enterprises.
- Submit an Issue to the Chamber
Use the form to share your municipal, provincial, or federal business issue.
Next Level Events
Skechers Grand Opening
Join us in welcoming Skechers to Medicine Hat! Celebration happening August 1st from 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM before the store opens for the day; ribbon cutting at 9:30 AM. Activities and contests happening on this special day!
Location: Medicine Hat Mall | 3292 Dunmore Road SE, Medicine Hat
Skechers went public in 1999 and has since expanded to become the third-largest footwear brand globally. Skechers is known for its diverse range of athletic and casual footwear, apparel, and accessories for men, women, and children. We look forward to continue to expand in Canada as we’re now opening a Skechers for the first time in Medicine Hat, Alberta Canada.
Medicine Hat Stampede
Medicine Hat Stampede happening July 23-26, 2025!! Experience the rides, entertainment, rodeo, culture and excitement! Come out and show your western spirit.
Learn more here: https://www.mhstampede.com/the-stampede/
Over 50% SOLD: Be a part of the Brooks Fall Home & Leisure Tradeshow
The Brooks tradeshow is happening October 3rd-5th, and there are multiple opportunities to be a part of it! Book a booth space to showcase your business to thousands of attendees over the weekend, or sponsor a part of the show to get your business name out there.
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
Fuelling the Business Community
New Chamber Members
We would like to welcome Beryl's Bloomers Florist and Skechers Medicine Hat 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!
Your Canadian roots are showing—and so are ours.
As Canadians, it’s in our roots to lend a helping hand and support each other. For over 85 years, Doane Grant Thornton has been proudly supporting businesses and communities across Canada and Southern Alberta—helping them grow, succeed, and thrive. Being Canadian shapes how we do business, and we’re excited to help shape your legacy. Connect with one of our team members in Medicine Hat or Brooks to get the conversation started today.
July & August Evalon Promo
Throughout the month of July and August, any new member who signs up through our Chamber Referral Program will receive $150 statement credit! Promotion Period: July 1st ~ August 31st, 2025.
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 August 31st, 2025, and members will be qualified to receive $150 Statement credit
Fill Up On Funding
AWE Loan Programs for Women-Owned Businesses
AWE is committed to empowering women entrepreneurs by providing access to capital, as well as business supports like specialized training, advising, and mentorship. AWE will get to know your unique business needs, help you understand your options, and guide you to financing solutions that are right for you. We want to support your success by offering a flexible approach to capital. Let's work on this together and unlock the potential of your business.
ATB Entrepreneur Center
The ATB Entrepreneur Center offers Alberta small businesses free tools, templates, expert advice, and resources to help entrepreneurs navigate each stage of their business journey, streamline operations, and fuel growth. Your one-stop hub for funding, guidance, and essential services. Whether you’re starting out or scaling up, this directory connects you with the resources and expertise to drive your success.
Financial Opportunities
Alberta Manufacturing Productivity Grant | Up to $30,000 | Deadline: October 31, 2026
- To support small and medium-sized manufacturers across any sector looking to improve productivity and competitiveness
Strengthening the Canadian Supply Chain Program | Up to $150,000
- To support small or medium-sized Canadian-owned manufacturers and processors in creating or reformulating products for the Canadian market using Canadian ingredients
Tourism Student Work Placement Program | Up to $7,000
- Wage subsidies for tourism employers hiring post-secondary students for work-integrated learning opportunities.
Crossword Puzzle
Crossword Puzzle Answers
Did you figure it out? Here are the answers for the July 15th 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.
Unfortunately, there will be no crossword puzzle this week. Please keep an eye out for future editions. Sorry for the inconvenience.
Other News
OHS News | June 2025
Canada is the top preferred oil supplier among G7 allies
Alberta’s government is decentralizing decision-making to the hospital level
ERA Project Map: Learn about ERA funded projects in your region.
Other Events
Marketing Strategies in Foreign Markets
Unlocking Indo-Pacific Markets
Grow your business with AI-powered tools by Google | On Demand
August 20 | Grant Writing 101 | Info here
Useful Links
Follow us on social media for up-to-the-minute updates
The Voice: July 22nd, 2025
Building Business Resilience, City of Medicine Hat – Procurement Opportunities, County Approves Solar for Farm Efficiency and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Building Business Resilience Alberta Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to supporting businesses across Alberta to swiftly respond and adapt to disruptions or unplanned changes affecting operations, people,…
Read More The Voice: July 15th, 2025
Monthly Labour Force Statistics for June 2025, Advancing Interprovincial Trade & Labour Mobility Across Canada, and Directories of Canadian Companies all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Monthly Labour Force Statistics, June 2025 The LABOUR FORCE SURVEY (LFS) reports for June 2025 have been released. KEY HIGHLIGHTS: There were 2,594,100 people employed…
Read More The Voice: July 8th, 2025
Strong Year-End Surplus for a Stronger Alberta, Important Updates on the Canada Carbon Rebate for Small Businesses, and New Alberta Police Service to Support Community Safety all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Strong year-end surplus for a stronger Alberta Alberta’s $8.3-billion surplus sets a solid foundation for the uncertain times ahead.…
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