The Voice: May 19th, 2026
Government of Alberta Spring Session Concludes, 2025 Economic Spotlight, Emissions Reduction Alberta Releases Its Three-year Plan, Riverside Corridor Enhancement Project Engagement Opportunities, City of Medicine Hat Launches Open Data Portal and more all in this week's edition of The Voice.
Business News
GOVERNMENT OF ALBERTA SPRING SESSION CONCLUDES
This spring session, Alberta’s government delivered a legislative agenda that included 17 bills. Building on Alberta’s reputation as Canada’s economic engine was another major focus of the spring session. This included legislation to speed up major project approvals, expand interprovincial trade opportunities and reduce barriers that slow down business growth and investment.
The Expedited 120-Day Approvals Act created faster, more predictable timelines for major project approvals, helping attract investment and create jobs across the province. The Interprovincial Trade Mutual Recognition Act will help Alberta businesses access markets across Canada more easily by reducing unnecessary trade barriers. Also, through the Red Tape Reduction Statutes Amendment Act, 2026, Albertans will no longer have to change their clocks twice a year for daylight saving time, reducing frustration for families and businesses
ECONOMIC SPOTLIGHT: 2025 YEAR IN REVIEW
Alberta’s economy posted solid growth in 2025 even though tariffs, trade uncertainty and lower oil prices slowed momentum as the year progressed. Strong oil production, record levels of residential construction, and continued job gains supported overall activity throughout the year. Public-sector investment also emerged as a key source of strength, helping to offset headwinds from lower energy prices and trade uncertainty, which weighed on exports and business investment. Population growth slowed sharply, contributing to more balanced housing and labour market conditions. While the removal of the federal consumer carbon tax reduced inflation, higher prices for many goods and services continued to weigh on households’ discretionary spending.
EMISSIONS REDUCTION ALBERTA RELEASES ITS THREE-YEAR PLAN
The ERA released its 2026–2029 Business Plan, outlining how they will continue supporting technologies that reduce emissions, strengthen competitiveness, and create economic value for Alberta and Canada. As ERA looks ahead, the focus remains clear:
- Accelerate the commercialization and adoption of emissions-reducing technologies
- Support innovation across sectors, including agri-food, energy, electricity and grid optimization, digital solutions, resource efficiency, and critical minerals processing
- Continue responsible stewardship of public funds while delivering measurable outcomes
- The plan also reflects ERA’s growing national role, including the addition of the new Fuel Innovation Fund and continued delivery of investments supported through Alberta’s Technology Innovation and Emissions Reduction (TIER) fund.
Over the next three years, we will deepen our understanding of what helps technologies scale successfully — and apply those insights to how we design programs, engage partners, and deploy capital. We’re proud of the impact achieved to date and excited about what comes next.
Medicine Hat-Cypress News
RIVERSIDE CORRIDOR ENHANCEMENT PROJECT ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
The Riverside Corridor Enhancement Project page is now on the Shape Your City website. You can find out more about:
- Roadway history
- A 50% design document and fly-through video
- Why this project is being considered
- Project goals
- What was heard and revised after Phase 1 of engagement
- How design decisions are informed, and how decisions are made
You can also attend an open house at the Elks Hall (305 Third Street NW). City staff and project team members will be available to answer questions and discuss elements that are still being refined, as all current design documents on the project page are not the final design and staff are seeking feedback. You can attend a public open house on one of the following dates/times:
- Wednesday, May 27 – 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Tuesday, June 2 – 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Tuesday, June 2 – 4 to 6 p.m.
The City also has a survey is available for residents to complete and formally record their feedback, which will remain open until June 15. All questions are optional and anonymous. Survey results will be summarized and shared publicly after the survey closes. Take the survey
CITY LAUNCHES OPEN DATA PORTAL
The City of Medicine Hat launched an open data portal today – another step in the journey to provide convenient access to public municipal information.
An open data portal is an online platform that hosts and provides public access to downloadable datasets such as transportation, infrastructure, or environmental information – all free from restrictions like copyright or patents.
TOWN OF REDCLIFF APPROVES TAX INCREASE AND HEARS DELEGATION ON BACKYARD CHICKENS
Redcliff Town Council approved a 2.34 per cent municipal tax increase during May 11th meeting. This will translate to about a $36.74 increase for the average assessed property in the town compared to 2025.
The School tax rate the town is required to collect for the Alberta government is up 9.42 percent, translating to an additional $75.56 for the average property owner than in 2025.
A 2.2 per cent increase to the Cypress View Foundation Levy will amount to an increase of $1.06 for the average homeowner compared to the prior year.
Overall, the average homeowner in Redcliff can expect an overall increase of about $113.36 compared to 2025.
Brooks-Newell News
Two projects added to city’s 2026 street works
The City of Brooks is able to add a couple of new projects to the 2026 street improvements.
This year’s projects were tendered and the lowest tender was $956,000 which was awarded to Brooks Asphalt and Aggregate. That leaves $948,000 in the budget.
This year’s project focused on overlays with road base and concrete work where needed as well as replacement of the cast iron water line the vitrified clay tile sanitary sewer line and services up to each residential property line as well as a new water street valve and a replacement water hydrant.
The construction priority as presented in December to council were 3A Street West from 4th Ave West to 5th Ave West and 4th Ave. West from 2nd Street West to 3rd Street West.
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.
Bring a friend, bring your family, or just swing by on your way home. Join us for the 2nd Sip and Sample at Indian Pan Flame.
Date: Thursday, May 28
Time: 4 PM – 6 PM
Location: Indian Pan Flame | 1131 2 St. W Brooks AB T1R 0N9
Come hungry! We can’t wait to see you there! | REGISTER HERE
Local Unlocked at Sweet Tooth
Join us for Local Unlocked at Sweet Tooth where we will bring you a family‑friendly evening where you’ll get an inside look at how Sweet Tooth creates their handmade candy right here in Brooks!
During this exclusive event, attendees will have the opportunity to watch hard candy being made from start to finish. You’ll watch the candy being made and even try a hands‑on step if you’d like. It’s a great experience for all ages.
To make the evening even more special, participants will enjoy a private shopping experience after the demonstration, complete with a 10% discount on all in‑store‑made products.
Event Highlights
- Live hard‑candy making demonstration
- Optional hands‑on participation
- Family‑friendly atmosphere
- Private shopping experience with an exclusive 10% discount
- A behind‑the‑scenes look at one of the community’s sweetest local businesses
- Maximum 20 participants
- Free for Chamber Members
Come connect with a local maker, learn something new, and experience the sweet side of community discovery. We can’t wait to unlock something special with you!
Advocacy in Action
Aligning Climate Policy with Competitiveness: Alberta–Canada Deal Moves Pipeline Forward
The Alberta Chambers of Commerce and Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce welcome today’s Alberta–Canada announcement as a pragmatic step toward aligning climate policy with competitiveness and advancing long‑delayed trade infrastructure.
Clearer direction on industrial carbon pricing provides businesses with greater certainty, but certainty alone is not the outcome. The value of today’s announcement lies in the shared commitment to move a new west coast pipeline forward as a project of national interest, routed through a strategic port, with defined milestones and accountability on both sides of the federation.
Expanding market access is essential to Alberta’s economy and Canada’s energy security.
Pipeline capacity is critical to diversifying exports, attracting investment, and supporting emissions‑reduction projects at scale. Getting this balance right is fundamental to positioning Canada as a credible destination for long‑term industrial and energy investment.
With the policy framework established, the priority is execution and disciplined follow‑through. The Alberta Chambers of Commerce will continue working with both governments to advance infrastructure projects essential to Canada’s economic growth and sovereignty.
FEDERAL INVESTMENTS SIGNAL PROGRESS ON LAND BORDER CROSSINGS, INCLUDING WILD HORSE
Recent federal actions to modernize Canada’s land border crossings represent a meaningful step forward for trade-enabling infrastructure, including at the Port of Wild Horse, a critical gateway for Southeast Alberta and businesses along the Eastern Alberta Trade Corridor. Through the Canada Border Services Agency’s (CBSA) Land Border Crossing Project (LBCP), the federal government is rebuilding and modernizing select ports of entry that are at or near the end of their lifecycle.
The objective is to improve the border crossing experience for travelers, enhance safety and security, and provide border services officers with modern, fit-for-purpose facilities designed to adapt to future operational needs. Wild Horse, Alberta is identified as one of the ports currently in the planning and design phase of this national program, alongside locations in British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Quebec, and New Brunswick. [cbsa-asfc.gc.ca]
GOVERNMENT OF CANADA PREPARING FOR THE 2027–2029 IMMIGRATION LEVELS PLAN
The 2027–2029 Immigration Levels Plan will be announced in the fall of 2026 and they are seeking your views and input.
The survey focuses on open-ended questions, giving you more space to share your views in your own words. You may want to prepare your answers in advance. You can review the questions before completing the online survey.
You can learn more about this year’s engagement initiative and complete the online survey before June 14: Take our online survey
Next Level Events
Redcliff Business Collective: Digital Roundtable
This virtual session will offer practical insights and timely information for anyone supporting or operating a rural or small-town business. Jordan will provide an overview of Community Futures Entre-Corp and how their team supports business growth and resilience across our region.
You’ll learn more about:
- Financing options, including business loans and eligibility considerations
- Business advisory, mentoring, and coaching services
- Programs supporting start-ups, self-employment, and business transitions
- Training opportunities, workshops, and digital support services
- Workforce initiatives and upcoming opportunities
- How businesses and community partners can best engage with Community Futures and access supports
Wednesday, May 20, 2026 | 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Learn about the Canada-Alberta Workforce Resilience Initiative
Shifting global trade environments are creating uncertainty and higher costs for Alberta businesses, making it harder for them to plan, invest, and keep their workforce stable during unpredictable conditions. The Government of Alberta, in partnership with the Government of Canada, is launching initiatives across multiple ministries as a response to trade and tariff impacts.
Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration (JETI) is pleased to announce the Canada-Alberta Workforce Resilience Initiative. This initiative provides financial support to eligible organizations for building a resilient workforce through the following two streams:
- Workforce Planning - supports sectors and communities to develop strategies for workforce transitions and transformations.
- Employer-led Training – supports employers and industry associations operating in shifting global trade environments to train impacted employees.
Visit alberta.ca/WorkforceResilience to learn more about the Canada-Alberta Workforce Resilience Initiative and register for an online information session on May 26 or May 28, 2026.
Member 101 & Community Connections Committee
Whether you're a new member looking to learn about the key benefits and supports available through the Chamber, or a long-time member looking for a refresher, this session is for you.
You'll hear firsthand from engaged Chamber Members who will share how they've leveraged their membership to grow their businesses and build meaningful connections. This is also a great opportunity to explore potential mentorship and deepen your involvement in our vibrant Chamber community.
The objective of the Community Connections Committee is to work with and on behalf of the Chamber Board and its members to assist with opportunities for membership growth, retention and engagement.
Tuesday, June 2, 2026 | 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
5 Things Your Board Can Do to Elevate Your Co-op’s Governance
Good governance is the best predictor of a co-operative’s success. And, over the past two decades, there have been some notable failures among some of Canada’s most recognizable co-ops.
Let’s learn from their mistakes and build systems that protect our co-ops. In this session, Director of Education, Kyle White, will share five things your co-op can work towards to build better processes, plan for the future, and ensure you’re meeting the needs of your co-op’s members. In this informative session, he’ll cover important concepts like stakeholder governance, director diversity, and a quintuple bottom line.
This session takes place on Wednesday, May 20th at 1:00 p.m
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 Fast Times Courier & Delivery, The Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA) and Nextvia Inc. 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!
TALENT PIPELINE MANAGEMENT (TPM) NATIONAL TRAINING
Alberta is building momentum in Talent Pipeline Management (TPM), with a growing network of trained practitioners and national interest expanding.
On June 4, ACC will convene employers and partners to strengthen demand-driven talent pipelines, align workforce strategies, and support the development of a national TPM network.
Mental Health Coverage: Chambers Group Insurance Plan
Did you know that the Chambers Group Insurance Plan has benefits that include mental health coverage?
May marks Mental Health Awareness Month, so this is a great time to explore the mental health programs available to you through my benefits:
- my benefits health – tools and information to help you understand mental health concerns and find community supports
- myStrength – self-guided online programs designed to support your mental wellbeing
- Mental Health Navigator – virtual access to experts who can recommend appropriate care
- Employee Assistance Program – 24/7 access to professional counselling, plus guidance for stress, finances, relationships, and more
Already on the plan, visit the Health & Wellness Tab in my-benefits to explore what's available. Not on the Chamber Plan? Find out more here.
BDC: CANADIAN CONSUMERS: IS THE LAST PILLAR STILL STANDING?
The Canadian economy is growing, but barely. With real GDP projected to rise by 1.7% in 2025—the slowest annual pace since the 2020 contraction—and our forecast of 1.0% for 2026, there is little room to maneuver. In this context, one player stands out: the Canadian consumer. Year in and year out, household spending accounts for about 60% of GDP and is the main driver of growth.
In 2025, household consumption alone contributed +1.4 percentage points to real GDP growth, while net exports subtracted −0.45 points and private investment remained virtually flat.
Fill Up On Funding
BDC Small Business Loan
Whether you need speed or breathing room, BDC has got you covered. Choose a faster approval process with minimal paperwork for loans under $100K, or go big with flexible terms and tailored support for loans up to $350K. Your business, your pace.
Worker Retention Grant for Work-Sharing Employers
The Worker Retention Grant provides funding to employers with an approved and implemented Work-Sharing agreement. Employers can use this funding to provide a weekly income top-up to workers who have reduced hours and are taking training while receiving Work-Sharing Employment Insurance (EI) benefits. Learn more and apply here
Alberta Blue Cross Built Together Fund: Opened May 12, 2026 - helps Albertans build spaces for active living in their community. Whether it be a skate park, playground, outdoor gym or sports court
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.
Applications are due by June 10, 2026, 5 p.m. Mountain Daylight Time | Learn more here.
Crossword Puzzle
Crossword Puzzle Answers
Did you figure it out? Here are the answers for the May 12th 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 Resources
Other Events
Non-profit learning webinars | Alberta.ca
May 21 | Webinar: Indigenous Innovation & Knowledge Exchange
May 21 | Webinar: Launch or Grow Your Dream Business
May 26 | Virtual Pitch Competition
June 11 | Understanding the Funding Landscape in Canada
June 16 | Strategic Planning For Your Co-op's Future
June 23 | Building Resilient Supply Chains
Useful Links
Follow us on social media for up-to-the-minute updates
The Voice: May 19th, 2026
Government of Alberta Spring Session Concludes, 2025 Economic Spotlight, Emissions Reduction Alberta Releases Its Three-year Plan, Riverside Corridor Enhancement Project Engagement Opportunities, City of Medicine Hat Launches Open Data Portal and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News GOVERNMENT OF ALBERTA SPRING SESSION CONCLUDES This spring session, Alberta’s government delivered a…
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