The Voice: April 28th, 2026
National Day of Mourning, Turning Alberta Innovation into Economic Gold, Alberta Northern Lights Volunteer Recognition Program, Government of Canada Launches Domestic Trade Commissioners Network, Alberta Secures Major South Korean Partnership, and more all in this week's edition of The Voice.
Business News
April 28th is National Day of Mourning
Marked annually in Canada on April 28, the National Day of Mourning is dedicated to remembering those who have lost their lives, suffered injury or illness on the job, or experienced a work-related tragedy. It's also a day to collectively renew our commitment to improving health and safety in the workplace and to preventing further injuries, illnesses and deaths.
In 1991, eight years after the day of remembrance was launched by the Canadian Labour Congress, the Parliament of Canada passed the Workers Mourning Day Act making April 28 an official Day of Mourning. Today, Day of Mourning has since spread to more than 100 countries around the world and is recognized as Workers’ Memorial Day, and as International Workers' Memorial Day by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC).
You can learn more and access resources on the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety's website (CCOHS), and on the Workers' Compensation Board (wcb) - Alberta's website.
REMINDER: Chamber Board Nominations Now Open
As part of the Board of Director’s succession planning for the Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce, nominations are held each year to actively seek out dedicated, community-minded individuals whose common goals and principles coincide with the Chamber of Commerce and the organization’s mandate.
The Board of Directors assist in stimulating a strengthened and vibrant economy in our region through our connections, support & influence and help further our mission in Southeast Alberta.
We are looking for energetic, enthusiastic and progressive Board members who have the desire to sustain and grow a strong business environment in our community. Successful candidates should be prepared to assist the Chamber of Commerce in accomplishing its goals and objectives and be willing to contribute to formulating policies for the betterment of our business community and advocating for those positions on behalf of our region.
The Board is looking for individuals who are keenly aware of local, provincial and federal issues that affect our business climate and are able to respond to them in a reasonable, professional and discreet manner.
If you or someone you know is interested in working with the Chamber of Commerce Board to accomplish our vision and mission and would like to submit their name for election to the Board, please fill out the online nomination form or download the nomination package HERE.
All nominations are due by Friday, May 1, 2026 at 12:00 noon.
Should you have any questions, please contact the Chamber office at 403.527.5214 or president@southeastalbertachamber.ca.
TURNING ALBERTA INNOVATION INTO ECONOMIC GOLD
Alberta is staking a claim in the IP economy by helping Alberta innovators protect and commercialize their ideas, to create new Alberta-owned companies, more jobs and economic growth. Alberta is home to world-class researchers and innovators. But too often, the ideas they create end up owned by companies in other jurisdictions, generating jobs and opportunities outside of Alberta.
Under Alberta Innovates, the Alberta IP Office will serve as a dedicated IP hub for Alberta’s innovation ecosystem, filling a critical gap that is currently not being addressed. The Alberta IP Office will provide leadership, expertise and support across the IP life cycle to turn Alberta-made innovations into commercial products, new ventures and sustained economic growth. Read more
ALBERTA NORTHERN LIGHTS VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION PROGRAM
Every day, volunteers across the province are helping to improve the lives of Albertans and make our communities stronger. Volunteers are the heart of our community, whether they’re supporting recreation and cultural programs that enhance our daily experiences or working on the frontlines to deliver services to those in need or during times of crisis.
The Alberta Northern Lights Volunteer Program gives these volunteers the recognition they deserve – and a chance for you to say ‘thank you.’
Individuals and groups from across the province can be nominated for the program if they:
- contribute unpaid service to the community through formal or informal volunteering
- demonstrate community spirit
- serve as a role model for others in their community
GOVERNMENT OF CANADA LAUNCHES DOMESTIC TRADE COMMISSIONERS NETWORK TO PROMOTE INTERNAL TRADE & OPPORTUNITIES TO BUSINESSES
A Network of representatives from Canada’s Regional Development Agencies, and provinces and territories will come together to promote internal trade and build a stronger economy.
The Network will help support domestic trade and enhance opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This business-to-business (B2B) strategy will help facilitate partnerships and increase trade, and by opening doors for Canadian businesses to explore domestic trade promotion opportunities, like domestic trade missions and events.
The Network builds on the ongoing work of the RDAs to help businesses adapt to changing trade realities. This includes support through the Regional Tariff Response Initiative and the Regional Economic Growth through Innovation programs, as well as support for local chambers of commerce across the country, provincial and territorial agencies, and industry associations to prepare for and engage in domestic trade missions.
ALBERTA SECURES MAJOR SOUTH KOREAN PARTNERSHIP
Alberta’s government has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Hanwha Group to establish a framework for investment across key sectors where Alberta has proven strengths, including energy and natural resources, manufacturing and defence industrial capabilities.
The agreement sets a clear path for investment and long-term partnerships that support economic growth, expand market opportunities and strengthen the province’s role in critical supply chains.
Medicine Hat-Cypress News
PLANNING FOR A POTENTIAL NEW RECREATIONAL FACILITY HAS BEGUN IN CYPRESS COUNTY
Cypress County Council has directed administration to begin preliminary planning for a potential new recreational facility in Dunmore Junction, a move officials say is aimed at supporting long-term growth and modernizing local infrastructure.
The proposed concept may include twin sheets of ice and up to six sheets of curling ice, as staff have been directed to prepare a conceptual plan, a site plan, and a high-level budget estimate for the council’s consideration. Cypress County Mayor Dan Hamilton said the decision reflects a forward-looking approach to recreation planning in the region. Hamilton said council is taking a thoughtful, long-term approach to planning, recognizing the importance of recreation facilities and the opportunity to explore a modern solution that supports regional growth.
2026 TAX RATES
On April 20, 2026, Council passed the 2026 property tax bylaw with a 4.9% increase. Originally proposed at 6.1%, Council directed staff to reduce the increase to 4.9% and use $1.1 million from the Tax Rate Stabilization Reserve to address the funding shortfall. Staff are expected to exhaust all options to find the $1.1 million in savings from existing budgets before pulling from reserves.
At 4.9%, the median single-family home valued at $359,500 will see an increase of $115 per year (less than $10 per month) on the municipal portion of their tax bill. The City is also legislated to collect the provincial education tax, which has seen a higher than normal increase of 8.7%, and the Cypress View Foundation levy to fund accommodations and operations for seniors at the Cypress View Foundation. You can see the breakdown of each levy on your tax notice.
Tax notices will be mailed May 21 and taxes are due June 30. If you prefer to skip the paper bill, you can sign up for tax eBilling at medicinehat.ca/etax. Learn more at medicinehat.ca/tax.
2026 COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS NOW AVAILABLE
The 2026 Medicine Hat Community Survey shows 93 per cent of residents report positive quality of life in Medicine Hat. Survey results are now available on the City's website.
The survey, conducted by global market research company Ipsos from Feb. 2 to Feb. 16, 2026, targeted Medicine Hat residents aged 18 and older to gain feedback around a wide range of topics from what residents feel is the most important issue affecting the community, to levels of satisfaction with specific municipal services.
Brooks-Newell News
PROPERTY TAX CALCULATOR NOW AVAILABLE
Residents can now estimate their 2026 property taxes using the City of Brooks Property Tax Calculator.
This online tool allows property owners to:
- Estimate their property taxes based on assessed value
- See a clear breakdown of the municipal portion, Provincial School Requisition, and Newell Housing Foundation
- Explore how the municipal portion is distributed across City services
The Property Tax Calculator is provided for educational purposes only and is not an official tax bill. Actual tax amounts may vary based on individual property assessments and specific levies. Official property tax notices will be mailed in May.
Residents who do not know their assessed property value can use the built‑in property search tool within the calculator. Access the Property Tax Calculator
Sip and Sample - A Taste of Indian Pan Flame!
Get ready to eat well! 
We’re hosting Sip & Sample at Indian Pan Flame on May 28 from 4–6 PM, and it’s a great excuse to stop in, try some free food, and check out a local spot that puts real care into what they cook.
Come and go as you like, grab complimentary samples, and get a feel for their menu - curries, tandoori and rice dishes, veggie options - all made in-house. PLUS taste an exclusive Sip & Sample food special, available only on the day of the event. See the event here.
Advocacy in Action
CANADIAN CHAMBER PRESIDENT AND CEO TO SERVE ON PRIME MINISTER’S ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON CANADA-U.S. ECONOMIC RELATIONS
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that its President and Chief Executive Officer, Candace Laing, will serve as a member of the Prime Minister’s new Advisory Committee on Canada-U.S. Economic Relations.
To tackle the fight for North American economic security, the Advisory Committee brings together leaders from business, labour and public policy to provide strategic advice to the Prime Minister and Cabinet on the Canada–U.S. relationship — the most productive and competitive economic zone in the world.
“I am honoured to be asked to contribute the expertise and perspectives of Canadian businesses of all sizes from every region as we face a pivotal time for our economy,” said Laing. “The North American economic partnership has been central to the success of many of the over 200,000 businesses we represent.”
SAAMIS SOLAR PROJECT OVERVIEW AND COUNCIL CONDITIONS
Recently, Chamber members had the opportunity to meet with the City of Medicine Hat’s Energy, Land, and Environment team. The session offered clarity around the Saamis Solar project and the broader direction of the City’s Energy Transition efforts. Members were able to engage and ask direct questions and discuss what this major new project means for existing and new local businesses.
Saamis Solar presents a significant opportunity for the City of Medicine Hat to harness its greatest natural advantages: abundant sunshine, available land, and the city’s unique ability to generate, distribute, and market electricity locally—without having to incur provincial transmission and connection fees.
CCC POLICY MATTERS: CO-CREATING CANADA’S ECONOMIC FUTURE
The private and public sectors are co-creators and shared stakeholders in Canada’s economic success and a better life for all. The stable quality of life so many of us enjoy is thanks to the risk comparatively few entrepreneurs have taken. Canadians may not intuitively see business growth as something positive, but in addition to our jobs depending on a thriving and growing business community, the social programs and services we value also rely on the public revenues generated by the private sector.
GOVERNMENT OF CANADA ANNOUNCED CONSULTATIONS TO STRENGTHEN LABOUR RELATIONS
Earlier this month, the Government of Canada announced consultations to modernize federal labour relations framework. Employers and employer representatives, unions and employee groups and other key stakeholders will be asked to provide feedback on measures to strengthen labour relations and ensure workers are better protected and supported. Some of the measures the government is seeking feedback on include:
- adjusted timelines for collective bargaining;
- strengthening training supports for workers impacted by artificial intelligence and automation;
- updating workplace health and safety protections; and
- strengthening protections against misclassification and wage theft, and exploring options to ensure union rights carry over when contracts are retendered.
Consultations will happen in targeted virtual and in-person roundtables, and interested parties will be able to submit written feedback until May 18, 2026. The input gathered through this process will be published in a “What We Heard” report and carefully analyzed to inform policy decisions.
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce provided their reaction to the announcement.
“The consultations announced today come at a key moment for our economic prospects. While we can endeavour to invest in major projects and expand our trade capacity, none of it will matter if we fail to address the repeated labour stoppages that have damaged Canada’s reputation as a reliable trading partner.
If we truly want to become a superpower in the global economy, ensuring prosperity for both Canadians and businesses, we need to make the changes that signal to the world that Canada is country that will always deliver the goods.”
- Pascal Chan, Vice President, Strategic Policy and Supply Chains, Canadian Chamber of Commerce
Next Level Events
FOUNDER FRIDAYS
Founder Fridays is more than a series-it’s a launchpad for Alberta’s founders, mentors, investors, and ecosystem builders. It’s about upskilling, building connections, and accelerating startups through every stage.
May 1st, 2026 | Online | More info here.
DEFENCE DISCUSSION FOR MANUFACTURERS
Join EMC on May 12 for an important virtual leaders event focused on how Alberta manufacturers can begin exploring opportunities in the defence sector. This session will introduce EMC’s new Defence Initiative in Alberta, supported through the Government of Alberta, and open the conversation on what it takes to innovate for this growing and strategic market. Attendees will also hear from the Cyber/AI lead from the CARDD-TECH program at the University of Alberta as they discuss local resources, innovation pathways, and practical first steps for companies looking to better understand the needs and opportunities tied to Canadian defence.
May 12 | 10:00 AM MDT | Virtual | Register Here
AI THAT PAYS OFF: WHERE TO START FOR REAL RESULTS | FREE BDC WEBINAR
No matter your industry, sign up for our free webinar to learn practical ways to move forward with AI to deliver real value, whether you’re just getting started or looking to sharpen what you’re already doing. You’ll also hear how Canadian companies are using AI and leave with use cases you can apply right away. This webinar will feature:
- An entrepreneur using AI in their day‑to‑day business.
- An AI expert working directly with Canadian companies to implement practical solutions.
- BDC’s Chief Economist, sharing the broader economic context.
Together, they’ll show entrepreneurs how to move forward with AI in practical, low‑risk ways that deliver real value. Register Here
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 Warkat Hot Oil Ltd, Bee Well Counselling, and Town of Bassano 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!
PILLAR & STONE: CONNECTING FEMALE LEADERS
Pillar & Stone is a private connection group for women in leadership, business ownership, and executive roles seeking meaningful connection beyond traditional networking — a space where you can truly let your hair down.
Built on the belief that strong women don’t compete — they support, elevate, and strengthen one another — Pillar & Stone offers a trusted environment to share experiences, exchange insights, and navigate leadership in a relaxed, enjoyable setting. Think:
• Great meals
• Honest, thoughtful conversations
• Shared experiences — both wins and challenges
• A space to talk shop without adding to your to-do list
This is intentionally not a formal association or working group. It exists to support women who are often the pillars within their organizations but may lack their own network or sounding board. It’s lonely at the top — we get it.
There is no expectation to sell, pitch, or promote. The focus is on connection, reflection, and growth alongside peers who understand the realities of leadership.
Pillar & Stone is an invitation-based group, designed to remain intentional and aligned. You can join by:
• Receiving a direct invitation
• Being recommended by a current member
• Applying via the Red Rock HR website
All applications are reviewed to ensure alignment and manage potential conflicts of interest. Applications are now open via the link below, with our first gathering launching soon: https://www.redrockhrltd.ca/pillar-stone
BDC - HOW CONSUMERS FEEL ABOUT BUYING CANADIAN
The results of a recent BDC survey of nearly 1,500 Canadian consumers show that while price is the dominant factor in people’s purchasing decisions, value perceptions and country of origin also strongly influence what Canadians choose to buy. For entrepreneurs, these insights offer practical information about how to position, price and market what they sell. Read the full article.
66% - of Canadians base most purchasing decisions mainly on price. Quality, durability, special offers and reviews are the other most-mentioned criteria.
57% - say they’re willing to pay more for Canadian-made goods. 37% say it is difficult to identify Canadian products.
32% - make most of their purchases online. This is especially true for Ontarians, people aged 35 to 44 years, urban residents, and those with household incomes of $150,000 or more
Elavon April Promotion
During April, any new member who signs up through our Chamber Referral Program will receive a $150 statement credit. This exclusive offer is available for a limited time! How Members Can Participate:
- Submit a web inquiry through the Elavon Chamber landing page: https://join.paymentstart.com/cachamber
- A dedicated Elavon sales representative will contact them within 24–48 hours.
- Complete the sign-up process by April 30, 2026 to qualify for the $150 statement credit. Click the link for full details.
Fill Up On Funding
COMMUNITY FACILITY ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM LARGE
The Community Facility Enhancement Program (CFEP) Large provides over $125,000 to $1 million in financial assistance to upgrade, expand, purchase or build arts, cultural, heritage, recreational, sport or other related public-use community facilities.
Deadline: May 15, 2026 | More information and to apply
Rural Education and Advanced Learning (REAL) Program
RhPAP’s REAL Program helps rural health professionals access continuing professional development and education opportunities that help them enhance the healthcare services they offer in their communities.
This initiative is aimed at nurses, midwives, nurse practitioners, and allied health professionals working in rural Alberta in one of the following contexts:
- a primary care network
- an out-of-scope or non-union position
- in independent or private practice
- as a clinical nurse educator, clinical resource nurse, clinical nurse specialist, or hospital department lead
Applications open on May 6 | Deadline: June 17 | More information and to apply
THE FUTURE FUELS CHALLENGE
The Future Fuels Challenge is a flagship initiative under the Fuel Innovation Fund, administered by ERA, designed to accelerate the development and deployment of innovative low-emission fuel technologies.
This annual competitive funding call supports projects that deliver measurable greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions, enable the commercialization of novel solutions, and strengthen Canada’s clean energy economy. The Challenge focuses on technologies that can significantly reduce the lifecycle carbon intensity of transportation fuels and contribute to Canada’s Clean Fuel Regulations objectives.
Successful applicants may request between $1 million and $10 million per project, with funding covering up to 50 per cent of eligible expenses.
Deadline: June 10, 5pm MST | More information and to apply
Crossword Puzzle
Crossword Puzzle Answers
Did you figure it out? Here are the answers for the April 21st 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
April 28 | Succession Planning in Non-profit Organizations
April 29 | Indigenous Founders Circle: Fund It
April 30 | Unlock Viral Engagement: Stop Broadcasting, Start Connecting
May 5 | Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Non-Profit Voluntary Sector
May 5 | Calgary | Beyond Aid vs. Trade: How Canada Can Align Development and Economic Partnerships in a Changing World
May 7 | Succession as strategy: Preparing your business and family for what’s next - MNP
Useful Links
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The Voice: April 28th, 2026
National Day of Mourning, Turning Alberta Innovation into Economic Gold, Alberta Northern Lights Volunteer Recognition Program, Government of Canada Launches Domestic Trade Commissioners Network, Alberta Secures Major South Korean Partnership, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News April 28th is National Day of Mourning Marked annually in Canada on April…
Read More The Voice: April 21st, 2026
National Volunteer Week, National Tourism Week, Expedited 120-Day Approvals Act, New Provincial Cybercrime Task Force, Temporary Federal Tax Relief, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK National Volunteer Week (April 19-25, 2026) is a nationwide celebration led by Volunteer Canada every April that recognizes, celebrates, and promotes volunteerism across the…
Read More The Voice: April 14th, 2026
Alberta-China Advisory Committee Launches, Federal Minimum Wage is Now $18.15/Hour, Alberta Commits $247M to Strengthening the Workforce, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News ALBERTA-CHINA ADVISORY COMMITTEE LAUNCHES The committee will provide targeted insight on trade and investment opportunities with China, supporting government efforts to focus on partnerships that deliver…
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