The Voice: February 10th, 2026
Canada's Ag Day, New Automotive Strategy Signals Big Change, Red Tape reduction Office Consultation, BDC Study, and more all in this week's edition of The Voice.
Business News
FEBRUARY 10TH IS CANADA’S AGRICULTURE DAY!
On February 10, 2026, we’re celebrating Canada’s Ag Day, marking the 10th official anniversary of this national day of recognition. While Canada’s agriculture legacy goes back generations, this milestone highlights ten years of formally honouring the hardworking individuals who bring food to our tables and the incredible contributions of agriculture to our nation’s prosperity, health, and well-being.
Join the celebration by using #CdnAgDay on social media to connect with others across the country. Let’s celebrate ten years of recognizing the people, the passion, and the pride behind Canadian agriculture
PRIME MINISTER CARNEY NEW AUTOMOTIVE STRATEGY SIGNALS BIG CHANGE ACROSS ALL MANUFACTURING SECTORS
Prime Minister, Mark Carney, announced new measures to position Canada as a global leader in electric vehicle production and reduce Canada’s carbon footprint. Some of the highlights include:
- A five-year EV affordability program to help to lower EV costs for Canadians
- A plan to harness the Productivity Super-Deduction and reduced corporate tax rates for zero-emission technology manufacturers.
- Investments to enhance national EV charging network.
- Counter-tariffs on auto imports from the US will remain in place to keep Canada competitive.
Even if you never touch a car or an electric vehicle, this matters to Canadian business owners. These changes signal a major shift in Canada’s economic and industrial policy, with ripple effects well beyond just automakers. At its core, it tells our business owners three important things:
- Canada is actively reducing dependence on the U.S. market.
- Government money, procurement, and incentives are being realigned around EVs, clean tech, and domestic production.
- Trade rules, taxes, and workforce programs are about to change in meaningful ways.
This is just the beginning of diversification pressure, and it has already spread beyond the automotive industry. Manufacturing industries like agri-food, energy, and tech have already seen the shift through new incentives to sell to Asia and Europe and reduce our dependency on US buyers, suppliers or cross-border logistics.
RED TAPE REDUCTION OFFICE CONSULTATION
As part of the red tape review, the Red Tape Reduction Office is conducting several horizontal red tape reviews, focusing on ways to simplify regulations and reduce costs for Canadians and businesses.
Feedback is requested by February 28, 2026. We encourage interested stakeholders to participate.
More details and information on how to share feedback is available here.
HISTORIC $300-BILLION WAVE OF BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS SET TO RESHAPE CANADA'S ECONOMY: BDC STUDY
Canada’s business landscape is on the brink of a major transformation. A new study by the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) reveals thousands of SMEs are expected to change hands in the next five years, creating a $300-billion opportunity for entrepreneurs and investors.
Key findings:
- 61% of small- and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) are led by owners aged 50+; nearly one in five plan to exit within five years
- Companies that acquire other businesses earn four times the profits of non-acquirers
- For every 10 buyers, only seven are sellers—competition for strong businesses is fierce
Why it matters
Small- and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) generate about 50 percent of Canada’s GDP, with medium-sized firms driving export growth and competitiveness. This wave of acquisitions will help smaller businesses scale up faster, mitigating succession risks and enhancing Canada’s productivity, boosting GDP per capita, creating high-quality jobs, and strengthening global trade performance. Read More
Medicine Hat-Cypress News
MEDICINE HAT CITY COUNCIL APPROVES 75-MEGAWATT SAAMIS SOLAR PROJECT WITH CUSTOMER CONTRACT REQUIREMENT
Medicine Hat City Council has approved a budget of $131.5 million to move forward with the 75-megawatt (MW) phase of the Saamis Solar project, contingent on securing a power purchase agreement with a committed customer before breaking ground.
Read this article on their website. | February 2nd Council Highlights
MEDICINE HAT RFP: PKRC - STRATEGIC REVIEW OF RECREATION FEES & CHARGES
The City of Medicine Hat Parks and Recreation Department requires a comprehensive review of its fees and charges framework.
The review will cover all Parks and Recreation fees, including memberships, admissions, facility and equipment rentals, service and administrative fees, and fees for goods, and will involve engagement with Council, senior management, partners, user groups, and the public.
MEDICINE HAT HEALTH FOUNDATION PROVIDING FINANCIAL BOOST TO STUDENTS PURSUING HEALTH AND COMMUNITY SERVICES
The Medicine Hat Health Foundation (MHHF) is giving a financial boost to students pursuing an education in health and community services at Medicine Hat College (MHC).
The health foundation is doubling its support for students in the Yuill School of Health & Community Services. Funds will be distributed through bursaries, with the awarded value per student, between $1,000 and $2,000, according to a news release from MHC.
The College states that the increased commitment from the MHHF allows for continued support to students in Health Care Aide, Occupational/Physical Therapist Assistant, Speech Language Pathologist Assistant, Practical Nurse, Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Paramedic programs, while also extending support for those enrolled in new programs, including the Addictions Counselling, Kinesiology, and Pharmacy Technician diplomas. Read More
CITY INVITING APPLICATIONS FOR INDIGENOUS ADVISORY CIRCLE
The City of Medicine Hat is inviting Indigenous community members living or working in Medicine Hat to submit expressions of interest for participation on an Indigenous Advisory Circle. Individuals who identify as First Nations, Métis, or Inuit are encouraged to submit an expression of interest. Read this article on their website.
Brooks-Newell News
County of Newell COUNCIL HIGHLIGHTS | January 29, 2026
- Financial support requested and approved for the Rolling Hills Agricultural Academy’s Barn Project.
- Director of Agricultural Services, Todd Green presented his report. He touched on concerns with staff and a team shortage, a surge in equipment repairs and inspections, and noted that last season had been one of their busiest years for EFP completion in recent memory.
- A Recommendation for Decision was approved to include the Division Four, Five, and Seven Councillors on the Rural Brooks Area Recreation Board who will serve together with three members at large one each residing within the boundaries of Division Five and Seven and that portion of Division Four that is located within the Rural Brooks Recreation Area.
COUNTY OF NEWELL FEATURED IN ALBERTA SEED GUIDE
Recently, a major County of Newell initiative was featured in the Alberta Seed Guide. The Crop Diversification Centre South, once known for its reputation as a cornerstone of agricultural research in our region, is now being highlighted for a locally led effort to secure its future.
When the Government of Alberta exited direct agricultural research in 2019, the future of the Crop Diversification Centre (CDC) South near Brooks became uncertain. With aging infrastructure, limited staff, and no long-term plan, a historic research facility that has supported irrigated agriculture since 1935 was at real risk.
In 2024, the County of Newell stepped in, assuming full operational responsibility for the site and introducing a cost-recovery model that attracts researchers, ag organizations, and seed companies, while reinvesting revenue back into the facility.
Today, CDC South is seeing renewed activity, welcoming new tenants, and attracting growing interest from across the agricultural sector.
Read the full article (Page 16)
RFP: DEVELOPMENT OF A RECORDS MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE IN SHAREPOINT
The County of Newell has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) seeking a qualified consultant to help implement a standardized digital records management system within its existing Microsoft 365 environment.
This project focuses on putting those policies into practice by configuring SharePoint Online and related tools to support defensible record-keeping, legislative compliance, and operational efficiency across all departments. Once complete, the system will support clearer information management, improved accountability, and better long-term preservation of municipal records.
Black History Month Celebration
Honoring heritage and embracing the shared future, join BCIS and Global Village in this celebration. There will be a panel discussion and keynote speakers.
February 13th from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM | JBS Centre - West Room
Advocacy in Action
CANADIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NOVEMBER 2025 RETAIL SALES REPORT
November retail sales rebounded, but the pickup was driven by discounts rather than stronger consumer confidence. Spending rose in everyday categories like food, while autos and e-commerce remained weak.
Canadian Chamber of Commerce Economist, Jasleen Trehan notes that Canadians are still spending but cautiously and selectively. With card spending growth slowing and early data pointing to a pullback in December, the rebound looks deal-driven and unlikely to signal a sustained acceleration in demand.
HAVE A SAY ON ALBERTA’S PRIVATE-SECTOR PRIVACY LAW
Consultation on Alberta’s private-sector privacy law closes Feb. 17
Albertans and private-sector organizations are invited to share their views on modernizing the Personal Information Protection Act. Proposed updates will explore ways to strengthen privacy rights, align with global standards and support innovation, while ensuring personal information is respected and protected.
CANADIAN CHAMBER RECOMMENDATIONS FOR LABOUR DISRUPTION REFORMS
On January 30, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce (CCC) submitted recommendations to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities (HUMA) as part of its study on the definition of “work” and the use of section 107 of the Canada Labour Code.
In December, they also appeared before the Committee to underscore the importance of reliable supply chains to Canada’s trading economy, highlight the growing impact of labour disruptions on businesses and workers and call for targeted reforms.
Next Level Events
Art Room on 2nd Gallery Grand Opening
WHEN: Friday, February 13th at 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
WHERE: Art Room on 2nd | 621 2nd St. SE, Medicine Hat, AB
More artists! Handcrafted gifts! Unique artistry! Celebrate the LOVE of art at the Grand Re-Opening of the Art Room on 2nd Gallery. Join us for an evening of chocolate, refreshments, art and community. From 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and the ribbon cutting will be at 6:00 PM. Learn more here.
NEW BOOTHS RELEASED - 2026 Home & Leisure Tradeshow
The Home & Leisure Tradeshow is March 6th - 8th and we just added MORE booths!
The personal connections you can make with thousands of consumers and clients is unmatched. Trade Shows are a GREAT marketing investment! The positive impact of exhibiting at a trade show isn’t confined just to the event, as 87 percent of attendees will pass along some of the information they obtain, and 64 percent will tell at least six other people about it!
Book your booth now by emailing Brad at events@southeastalbertachamber.ca, calling him at (403) 527-5214 ext.224 or by visiting our site mhtradeshow.ca
ALBERTA AVIATION AEROSPACE & DEFENCE SUMMIT
May 3rd-5th | Edmonton Convention Center
Join industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders at the Alberta Aerospace & Defence Summit to gain unparalleled insights into the evolving defence and aerospace sectors.
Women in STEM Industry Roundtable
You’re invited to the first Startup Women Industry Roundtable of 2026! On February 25, connect with fellow women in STEM for an interactive, small-group session featuring peer discussion, shared insights, and founder perspectives.
Wednesday, February 25 at 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MST | Zoom
Register for free now
Navigating Inter-Provincial Trade in Canada
Thinking global? Start national! On March 19, join Startup Global for Navigating Inter-Provincial Trade in Canada, a practical webinar covering trade barriers, tax considerations, and key resources to help you grow coast to coast to coast.
Thursday, March 19 at 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM MDT | Webinar
Register for free now
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 Susie Pond for Mary Kay Cosmetics, Art Room on 2nd Gallery, and Maple Lounge & Grill 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!
Doane Grant Thornton's Western Canada Business Insights
Western Canada’s business landscape is evolving—and understanding what’s ahead is critical for success.
Doane Grant Thornton's Western Canada Business Insights Report brings together perspectives from more than 130 business leaders across BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. These conversations reveal the realities of operating in today’s economy: rising costs, talent shortages, and the push for digital transformation.
But they also highlight opportunities—collaboration, innovation, and strategies to future-proof operations. This report isn’t just about trends; it’s about actionable insights that can help businesses navigate uncertainty and seize growth.
Whether you’re a small business owner or part of a larger organization, these findings offer valuable guidance for planning and decision-making. Read the full report now
THE MUSTARD SEED LAUNCHES NEW PUBLIC EDUCATION AND AWARENESS CAMPAIGN
The Mustard Seed is launching a three-year public education and awareness campaign called “More Than You Think.” The organization stated that it is designed to challenge common misconceptions about homelessness and deepen public understanding of the layered supports required to create lasting change.
The campaign will invite the public to look beyond surface-level assumptions and recognize that homelessness is not simply about the absence of housing. The group states that it is often caused by intersecting challenges such as trauma, job loss, health concerns, and social isolation. READ MORE
10 MARKETING MISTAKES YOU NEED TO AVOID
Launching a project is super exciting, but getting your first customers through the door (physically or digitally) is a big challenge. Marketing is often the difference between a brilliant idea that thrives and one that ends up collecting dust. Too many early-stage businesses fall into common marketing traps that kill growth before it even begins. So let’s start strong! Here are the top marketing mistakes Canadian entrepreneurs and small businesses make, and how to avoid them. KEEP READING
Need Help with your marketing? Contact these Chamber Member businesses!
WORK INTEGRATED LEARNING
Fuel your business growth or launch your career by participating in Work Integrated Learning programs. Learn more on our WIL page, along with how to get started and what opportunities there are locally.
The Chamber is pleased to have a program, Powered by Magnet, where job seekers and businesses can access a free-to-use digital platform that uses intelligent matching technology to connect employers with talent and make recruitment efforts easy and efficient. Sign up here.
Register now for Magnet’s upcoming free webinar Unlock Talent & Growth Opportunities for Your Organization | February 12th at 10:00 AM | Register here
New Year. New Savings: Elavon Promotion
From invoicing and managing inventory to staff scheduling, and analytics we have solutions to help your business run efficiently and securely accept payments, from anywhere that your customers are located – at the counter, in the aisle, online, or curbside.
To get you started we will give you a $150 statement credit* when you open a new payment processing account for your business by February 28, 2026. Learn more and get started today!
* To qualify for the promotion, you must sign up for a new payment processing account with Elavon Canada between January 1 and February 28, 2026. Merchant accounts must be activated and actively processing payment transactions by March 15, 2026 for a minimum of one week and be in an open status at the time of the incentive credit. A one-time $150 credit will be applied to your Elavon statement within 90 days after the first deposit date. Limit one credit per customer. Cannot be combined with another offer. Elavon reserves the right in its sole discretion to modify, suspend or terminate the promotion at any time without additional notice. Restrictions may apply. Services provided by Elavon Canada Company.
Copyright © 2026 Elavon Canada Company. All rights reserved. Elavon is a trademark in the United States and/or other countries. All rights reserved. All features and specifications are subject to change without notice. This document is prepared by Elavon as a service for its customers. The information discussed is general in nature and may not apply to your specific situation.
Fill Up On Funding
2026 WCB-ALBERTA RESEARCH PROGRAM GRANT COMPETITION
WCB-Alberta’s Research Program collaborates with the research community to find solutions for workers’ compensation issues, develop research in the areas of work-related injuries and illnesses and improve the administration of injury compensation systems.
Researchers specializing in occupational or clinical medicine, epidemiology, population health, psychology, rehabilitation medicine, kinesiology, sciences, law, economics and other social sciences are encouraged to apply for funding. Researchers do not need to be physically located in Alberta or associated with an Alberta research institution to be eligible.
Deadline: March 20, 2026 | More information and to apply
THE OFF-SITE CONSTRUCTION CHALLENGE: GOVERNMENT OF CANADA
Challenging Canada’s residential construction sector to modernize the ways it builds energy efficient homes using off-site construction (OSC) solutions.
The Challenge, delivered under the Energy Innovation Program (EIP), drives the industry to design and demonstrate how innovative OSC methods can be used to build more energy efficient and resilient multi-unit residential buildings. Finalists will receive up to $180,000 in grant funding for the planning and development of their design. The winner will receive up to $10 million in contribution funding to help bring the design to life.
DEADLINE: March 27, 2026 | More information and to apply
EMISSIONS REDUCTION ALBERTA: ENERGY MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS
The Energy Management Information Systems (EMIS) activity offers funding for participants to implement recognized energy management systems (EnMS), including ISO 50001-compliant and ISO 50001-certified systems.
Deadline: March 31, 2026 | More Information and to apply
TENPEAKS CASE COMPETITION
Are you a teacher in search of an innovative science project for your 7th-12th-grade students? Join other educators throughout Alberta and challenge your students to build the most effective fuel cell powered by microbes! Ten Peaks is sending microbial fuel cell (MFC) kits to eligible classrooms and schools throughout Alberta. The most recent round of MFC kits were sent out in December, 2025.
Sign your class up today for the chance to participate, learn about innovative cleantech opportunities, and win prizes! We will also consider different types of eco-friendly and energy innovation project proposals for micro-grants.
Deadline: May 2026 | More information and to apply
Crossword Puzzle
Crossword Puzzle Answers
Did you figure it out? Here are the answers for the February 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 Events
Events — APEX | Regional Innovation Network of SE AB
Non-profit learning webinars | Alberta.ca
February 11 & 24 | UPCOMING EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS WEBINARS
February 26 | StrikeUP 2026: Canada's Conference for Women Entrepreneurs
March 3 | Grant Writing 101
March 25 | Southern Alberta Economic & Tourism Summit
Useful Links
Follow us on social media for up-to-the-minute updates
The Voice: February 10th, 2026
Canada’s Ag Day, New Automotive Strategy Signals Big Change, Red Tape reduction Office Consultation, BDC Study, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News FEBRUARY 10TH IS CANADA’S AGRICULTURE DAY! On February 10, 2026, we’re celebrating Canada’s Ag Day, marking the 10th official anniversary of this national day of recognition. While Canada’s…
Read More The Voice: February 3rd, 2026
February is Black History Month, Stay Ahead with Alberta’s New Labour Market Info Portal, Alberta’s Corporate Income Tax Year in Review, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News February is Black History Month Each February, people across Canada participate in Black History Month events and celebrations that honour the legacy…
Read More The Voice: January 27th, 2026
Competition Bureau Report Public Feedback on Algorithmic Pricing, Canada Diverges from US on Chinese EV Tariff Policy, Alberta Business Awards of Distinction Nominations Now Open, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News COMPETITION BUREAU REPORT PUBLIC FEEDBACK ON ALGORITHMIC PRICING AND COMPETITION Algorithmic pricing is on the rise worldwide. In…
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