The Voice: June 9th, 2026
Steel and Aluminum Tariff Measure Extended, IRCC's Online Survey on Immigration Levels, CCC 2026 Retail Sales Update, Canada Renews Support for the Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program, June OHS Updates, and more all in this week's edition of The Voice.
Business News
Steel and aluminum tariff measures extended
Canada is extending key steel and aluminum tariff measures for another year, including tariff-rate quotas and relief provisions, to provide certainty for producers and protect against global trade disruptions. Learn more
IRCC’s online survey on immigration levels
The Government of Canada is delivering on its commitment to return to sustainable immigration levels. Focusing immigration on where it has the greatest impact – filling labour gaps, strengthening key sectors of the economy, and supporting communities across the country. Every year, the Government of Canada engages with a wide range of stakeholders and partners from across the country to help shape Canada’s next Immigration Levels Plan.
Preparing for the 2027–2029 Immigration Levels Plan, which will be announced in the fall of 2026, this is your chance to share your the online survey. Review the questions before completing the online survey.
Please submit your responses by June 14, 2026. If you have any comments or questions, email us at IRCC.Engagement-Engagement.IRCC@cic.gc.ca.
2026 RETAIL SALES UPDATE: CANADIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Retail sales posted another strong month of nominal sales, growing 0.9% in March. The headline gain was driven by gasoline stations and fuel vendors, where sales jumped 12.4% in March as higher gasoline prices were felt across the country. Though in volume terms, sales fell 1.9%, meaning households paid more but bought less fuel.
Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s Principal Economist, Andrew DiCapua, says that Canadian consumers showed some resilience in the first quarter, but the key question is how long this resilience can last as higher gasoline prices increasingly show up in household budgets. See the full update
GOVERNMENT OF CANADA RENEWS SUPPORT FOR THE ENTREPRENEURS WITH DISABILITIES PROGRAM IN THE PRAIRIE PROVINCES
Five-year renewal will support eight Prairie organizations providing business support services to entrepreneurs with disabilities in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. Entrepreneurs with disabilities often encounter barriers accessing capital, specialized business services, mentorship and tailored supports needed to start, grow and scale successful businesses. The Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP), unique to Western Canada, delivers business information, training and development, mentoring, and one-on-one counseling services to entrepreneurs with disabilities. Continue Reading
What Employers Need to Know - June OHS Updates and Seasonal Safety Tips
With summer underway, the June OHS update focuses on young worker safety, flood-related workplace hazards, and vehicle safety as part of June’s awareness campaign. Additional highlights include the release of the Prevention Initiative Annual Report, upcoming employment standards webinars, and tools designed to support Indigenous workers and employers across Alberta.
Visit the full edition for detailed guidance, tools, and upcoming training opportunities.
Medicine Hat-Cypress News
Arts and Culture Legacy Award
Do you know someone who’s made significant arts and cultural contributions in Medicine Hat? Don’t forget to nominate them for the newly created Arts and Culture Legacy Award!
The award was created to serve as a visual memory of arts and culture contributions and achievements, and to ensure the individuals behind them receive due recognition.
The nomination period closes July 15 annually. Visit our website to submit a nomination and learn more about the award and its criteria.
MEDICINE HAT POLICE SERVICE: DPU DOWNTOWN INFORMATION NIGHT
What’s being done to support safety and confidence in downtown Medicine Hat? This recap from the recent MHPS Downtown Information Night highlights the work of the Downtown Patrol Unit, key trends they’re seeing, available supports for businesses, and practical steps property owners can take to help create a safer, more welcoming downtown.
Water Management and Adaptation Strategy survey
The City is developing a long-term Water Management and Adaptation Strategy to help plan for future water challenges. With pressures like extreme weather, population growth, and aging infrastructure, long-term planning is more important than ever and we want to know what matters to you.
Head over to medicinehat.ca/waterstrategy before June 19 to complete a short online survey that seeks to understand:
- which water challenges matter most to you
- how urgent you think action is, and
- your level of support for different approaches
When filling out the form, you can enter to win a $75 prepaid credit card.
Brooks-Newell News
Brooks-Newell Member Appreciation Night
It's been 2 years since the Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce expanded into the Brooks-Newell area - and oh how have we grown!
Join us for a special Member Appreciation Evening on June 17th at Wellings of Brooks - an evening dedicated to celebrating our Brooks-Newell Chamber members! Indulge in a "Taste of Brooks" featuring some local food & beverage members, go through a short member appreciation program, and end with some time to connect together.
We would love to see you there, member or not, to celebrate business in Brooks!
Wednesday, June 17th | 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM | Learn more and register here.
Tax Payment Deadline - Secure 2.5% Discount
Who doesn’t love a deal? Secure a 2.5% discount on the municipal portion of your taxes by paying before June 15, 2026 at 4:30 pm. If you’re ready to make a payment to the COUNTY OF NEWELL head over to the Making Payment page and choose your payment option > https://countyofnewell.ab.ca/making-payments
Contact the County of Newell if you have any questions about your taxes at 403-362-3266.
Rural Beautification Awards
Join us for a celebration of local charm and eco-conscious gardening with the Rural Beautification Awards offered by the County of Newell. If you or someone you know has a yard over one acre that's not just big, but also beautiful, it’s time to step into the spotlight! Nominate a yard that captures the essence of Newell’s natural beauty.
Call the Agricultural Services Department at 403-794-2311 or go online and nominate on the form: Rural Beautification Nomination Form
Advocacy in Action
Building Code Permits - Presented by: Penella Zollner, City of Medicine Hat Building Safety Codes Officer
On May 27, 2026, Penella Zollner, City of Medicine hat Building Safety Codes Officer presented to the Medicine Hat Construction Association and provided valuable information about Professional Involvement. See what we found out.
ALBERTA CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE: SHARE YOUR PERSPECTIVE
What are your economic and fiscal priorities?
Last year, 1 in 4 Alberta businesses said federal policies were the top issue facing the province. Share what you are seeing in your business today. What has changed, what has not, and where The Alberta Chambers of Commerce should focus next.
Advocacy for the Inclusion of Veterinarians into the Canada Student Loan Forgiveness ProgramÂ
Access to rural veterinarians and animal health technicians is vital to the safety, sustainability, and success of agricultural producers across the country.
The Government of Canada has implemented the Canada Student Loan Forgiveness Program to attract and retain essential professionals in rural and underserviced areas. Examples of eligible occupations include family doctors, nurses, teachers, social workers, and pharmacists. However, veterinarians and animal health technicians are not included in the list of occupations eligible for student loan forgiveness.
The exclusion of veterinarians and animal health technicians from this federal incentive is a missed opportunity to support a critical service in rural communities that has a direct impact on the economic stability of the country.
To support further advocacy for the inclusion of veterinarians and animal health technicians into the Canada Student Loan Forgiveness Program, a survey has been created to show the economic value of veterinary access in Alberta. The survey is intended to gather input from Albertan farmers and ranchers about the importance of veterinary services to agricultural productivity, animal health, and business viability. All responses are anonymous and the deadline to complete the survey is June 30, 2026.
Next Level Events
Ribbon Cuttings Galore!
BrokerLink Open House
3257 Dunmore Rd SE, Medicine Hat AB | Wednesday, June 10th at 4:00 PM
Starting with a ribbon cutting and networking at 3:30 PM, followed by Mike's Meats food, light refreshments, and tours - don't forget to grab some swag before heading out!
Blush & Ivory Bridal Grand Opening
451 3rd St SE, Medicine Hat AB | Friday, June 12th at 2:00 PM
Happening from 2:00 PM - 7:00 PM, with a ribbon cutting at 5:00 PM. Explore the new collections, mix & mingle with wedding vendors, enter to WIN a $500 Gift Basket, and any dresses purchased will come with a complimentary veil!
Heart of the Horse
Experience the Art of Horsemanship this August 21st–23rd at the Cypress Centre in Medicine Hat, Alberta! Experience horsemanship through competitions, demonstrations, and more!
Learn more about the event here:Â https://www.theheartofthehorse.ca/
Your First Customers Are Closer Than You Think
Finding your first customers can feel like one of the hardest parts of starting a business. This webinar on Thursday, June 18 at 12 p.m. will walk you through how to identify who is most likely to buy from you, start conversations that lead to useful feedback, and test demand through simple strategies like pilots, pre-sales, and direct outreach. Learn how to move from ideas to action by connecting with real potential customers. Register to learn how to find and engage your early audience.
Get Your First Customers Tickets, Thursday, June 18  • 12 PM - 1 PM MDT | Eventbrite
Webinar for Business Leaders without HR Support
Designed for business leaders without dedicated HR support, this session will show how to use the toolkit to remove common hiring and onboarding barriers, support young employees, and build a stronger, sustainable team—without adding operational complexity.
If you’re looking for practical hiring and retention strategies you can apply right away, this session is for you.
June 16, 2026 | 12:00–12:30 PM (MDT) | Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/3617781791246/WN_3M1xl9QyQLSSPkrSa9W8Jw
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 SoftMoc, Copperhead Electric & Controls Ltd, and STITCH FXÂ 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!
Medicine Hat JazzFest 2026
Celebrating its 30th anniversary, Medicine Hat JazzFest returns June 16–21, 2026, with six days of outstanding live music and community celebration. Since 1996, the festival has become one of southeastern Alberta’s premier cultural events, bringing acclaimed artists and music lovers together in unique venues throughout the city.
This milestone edition features an exceptional lineup of Canadian and international talent, including Grammy-winning vibraphonist and drummer Jason Marsalis, bassist and vocalist Kristin Korb, pianist and composer François Bourassa, trumpeter Ron DiLauro, The Ostara Project, MA:Q featuring Mary Ancheta, and bassist Robert Lee.
From straight-ahead jazz to contemporary and cross-genre performances, the festival offers something for seasoned fans and curious newcomers alike.
Festival favourites return throughout the week, concerts on the Esplanade Terrace and on-stage in the main theatre, workshops and jams on the front lawn, and the return to Medalta Potteries for the Dance Party, so audiences can enjoy live music in two of Medicine Hat’s most distinctive cultural spaces.
JazzFest continues to offer a mix of free and ticketed events, along with affordable youth pricing for attendees 25 and under, making the festival accessible to a wide range of audiences. Beyond the music, JazzFest delivers significant cultural and economic benefits, attracting visitors from across the Prairies while supporting local restaurants, hotels, retailers, and attractions.
For 30 years, Medicine Hat JazzFest has showcased the power of live music to bring people together. Find the full schedule and tickets at medicinehatjazzfest.com and experience this landmark celebration for yourself.
SAFETY BUZZ CAMPUS: WHEELS OF OPPORTUNITY
An Industry Advancement Grant was received from the Government of Alberta, in February 2026 to train 240 Class Three Drivers, with a direct focus on the agriculture relate industry in Southeast Alberta. Applications are now being accepted. This program is a bridge to Class 1: $3,500 towards your class 3 license and pathway grant funds up to $25,000 through the Careers Next Gen program.
Alberta Ag employers report shortages in:
- Farm support services
- Livestock and feeding operations
- Grain hauling and seasonal transport
WOO enhanced grant will open to other areas towards Taber and Lethbridge, Brooks and Special Areas in the next 2 years.
30% of participants are underrepresented groups with over $3,600 invested per person with Class-3 air brakes, Ag safety, career counselling and professional development. Each participant will receive 7-10 days of dedicated training per participant (depending on need and schedule).
Eligibility:
- Career in agriculture or an ag related industry
- Must turn 18 by December 2027
- Have a valid Alberta class 5 licence
- Looking for employment within 6 months and plan to be emp for a minimum of 60 days
Challenges and Solutions:
- Participants must pass a written exam
- Working on solutions with training programs and translator.
- High Insurance costs
- Working with brokers, AB chamber of commerce and government
Call-out for industry collaboration:
- Mentorship, field trips and job shadowing
- Industry informed curriculum
- Agricultural employers looking to hire
- Building SE Alberta’s skilled workforce
- Wage subsidy opportunities with Careers Next Gen
Fill Up On Funding
Expanding training opportunities for skilled trades workers
Alberta’s government is investing $4 million in a two-year pilot with the Christian Labour Association of Canada (CLAC) to expand on-the-job training for skilled trades workers, supporting faster certification through an adaptive, personalized learning platform. This initiative is open to individuals who are registered and meet the criteria of the Trades Qualifier Program.
CIP Organizational Development and Collaboration Grant
The CIP Organizational Development and Collaboration Grant Supports a stronger, more sustainable non-profit sector through updated program design. Closes June 15 | Apply for:
- Individual Organizations Grant: Funding up to $50,000 to single non-profit organizations for organizational development activities.
- Collaboratives Grant: Up to $100,000 to address regional or sector-wide needs. Updated program approach following stakeholder engagement and research.
Industrial Transformation ChallengeÂ
Applications for ERA’s $50 million Industrial Transformation Challenge are due by June 17. The annual funding opportunity supports projects that strengthen Alberta’s competitiveness through technologies that reduce emissions, improve efficiency, and advance innovation across sectors, including energy, electricity, manufacturing, agriculture, forestry, and resource management. The competition is open to applicants from across Alberta’s industrial and natural resource sectors, including agriculture, forestry, manufacturing, electricity, oil and gas, and more. Successful applicants are eligible for up to $10 million per project. The minimum request is $500,000. The maximum ERA contribution to a single project will be no more than 50 per cent of the project’s eligible expenses.
Applications are due June 17, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. MDT. Learn more and apply today
United States Climatetech Canadian Technology Accelerator      Â
Are you looking to grow your climatetech business in the United States (US)? There is a significant demand for climatetech solutions in the US driven by both policy and market forces. The Canadian Technology Accelerator (CTA) for climatetech will help you find venture investors and customers in three of the largest American climatetech markets including Boston, Denver and San Francisco.
Investors, partners, and customers are looking for high impact solutions to help combat climate change and meet emerging needs for markets like:
- buildings, materials, and construction
- transportation and infrastructure
- energy storage
- grid resilience and modernization
Deadline to apply: June 15, 2026. Apply today
Crossword Puzzle
Crossword Puzzle Answers
Did you figure it out? Here are the answers for the June 2nd 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
Clean Economy Investment Tax Credit (ITC) webinars
June 11 | Startup Women - Understanding the Funding Landscape in Canada
June 11 | Understanding the Funding Landscape in Canada
June 16 | Strategic Planning For Your Co-op's Future
June 16 | Calgary | Startup Global Pop-Up Pitch Competition
June 23 | Building Resilient Supply Chains
Useful Links
Follow us on social media for up-to-the-minute updates
The Voice: June 9th, 2026
Steel and Aluminum Tariff Measure Extended, IRCC’s Online Survey on Immigration Levels, CCC 2026 Retail Sales Update, Canada Renews Support for the Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program, June OHS Updates, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Steel and aluminum tariff measures extended Canada is extending key steel and aluminum tariff…
Read More The Voice: June 2nd, 2026
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Read More The Voice: May 26th, 2026
Alberta Rural Health Week, Changes to Provincial Cabinet, Canadian Small Business tax Deadlines, and Canada’s 2026-2028 Levels Plan, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Alberta Rural Health Week 2026 celebrates the people bringing care closer to home Alberta Rural Health Week (ARHW) returns May 25 to 29, 2026, celebrating…
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