The Voice: August 4th, 2026
Small and Medium Businesses Tax Web Page, Canada Launches Public Consultations on Measures to Strenghten Canada's Fight Against Forced Labour, Strategic Exports Office to Strenghten Canada's Global Competitiveness, and more all in this week's edition of The Voice.
Business News
Small and Medium Businesses Tax Web Page
Looking for business tax information? The CRA has made it easier. The newly updated Resources for small and medium businesses web page has been reorganized so you can quickly find the information, online services, and tools you need in one convenient place.
Whether you’re starting a business, managing day-to-day operations, or planning for growth, you’ll find resources to help you understand your tax obligations, access CRA digital services, and stay up to date.
Visit the updated Resources for small and medium businesses web page today.
Business Registration Online is now only available through your CRA account
As of July 14, 2026, you must sign in to your CRA account to access Business Registration Online (BRO). Once signed in, you can register for a business number (BN) or CRA program accounts, such as GST/HST.
This change enhances security, better protects your information, and makes the service more reliable and easier to use.
For more information on registering for a BN and CRA program accounts, refer to: Business Registration Online (BRO)
Canada launches public consultations on measures to strengthen Canada’s fight against forced labour in global supply chains
Global Affairs Canada’s consultations will seek stakeholder feedback on the approach, evidence, criteria, and methods for identifying goods suspected of being produced with forced labour. The goal is to ensure the approach is well designed before any goods are listed. Views are being sought, together with the Canada Border Services Agency, on the information importers of listed goods would be required to provide under Bill C-35.
The consultations will remain open from July 27 to August 21, 2026 on the Consulting with Canadians platform. Canadians are encouraged to share their perspectives and expertise to help strengthen Canada’s response to forced labour in global trade.
Minister Sidhu establishes Strategic Exports Office to strengthen Canada’s global competitiveness
To support and guide Canadian businesses to grow and expand into global markets, the Honourable Maninder Sidhu, Minister of International Trade, today announced the creation of Canada’s Strategic Exports Office (SEO). Established within Global Affairs Canada and led in close collaboration with Export Development Canada, the new office will strengthen Canada’s ability to secure international business opportunities and coordinate senior-level commercial engagement in strategic sectors, including aerospace and defence, infrastructure and energy.
The SEO will bring together Canada’s diplomatic, commercial and financial expertise to remove trade barriers and open more doors for Canadian companies looking to succeed in markets worldwide. By combining Canada’s diplomacy efforts, market intelligence and financial know-how, the SEO will support Canadian businesses pursuing strategic export opportunities by:
- identifying and advancing large-scale export opportunities critical to Canada’s economic interests
- coordinating whole-of-government engagement to support Canadian firms
- supporting targeted advocacy by senior government officials where it can be decisive
Medicine Hat-Cypress News
Aging-in-place program expanding to Medicine Hat
The nationally renowned Oasis aging-in-place program is expanding to Medicine Hat starting in August. The opportunity has been made possible with funding from Healthy Aging Alberta, and through a partnership between the Neighbourhood Associations of Medicine Hat & Area, Queen’s University, and Oasis. The City of Medicine Hat is a proud partner of the Neighbourhood Associations of Medicine Hat & Area.
Oasis is a member-led program that empowers older adults to shape the activities, programs, and services they want in their own community. It focuses on social connection, physical activity and nutrition, and connecting residents with local services and resources, and nutrition. The expansion provides up to three seniors communities in Medicine Hat with the benefits of the program. Examples of seniors communities include, but are not limited to, condo boards, resident associations and other sites without paid programming staff. Continue Reading
Expanding free parking downtown
Medicine Hat Economic Development and the City’s Facilities team recently expanded the free parking options at the Transit Terminal Parkade in downtown Medicine Hat!
All 53 public parking stalls located on the third level are now designated as four-hour free parking. Previously there were nine stalls with four-hour parking, and 44 with two-hour parking. Free four-hour parking is available Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
This change offers downtown visitors a convenient extended parking option, making it easier to spend more time exploring local businesses, services, events, and attractions. As always, there is no time limit for free parking at the parkade after 6 p.m. on weekdays and all day on weekends.
Next time you're visiting downtown, give the Transit Terminal Parkade a try. Simply enter from 4 Street SE and proceed to the third level at the top of the parkade to access any of these 53 four-hour free parking stalls.
View the Downtown Parking map for more information on these and other parking options.
Brooks-Newell News
County of Newell - Proposed Development Permits for Agricultural Buildings
Planning a new shop, barn, or other agricultural building? The County of Newell is considering changes to its Land Use Bylaw that would require Development Permits for new Agricultural Buildings. The proposed changes are intended to help producers identify potential issues before construction begins.
No decisions have been made. Council is seeking feedback from agricultural producers, landowners, and residents before considering the proposed bylaw amendments. We encourage you to review the information below, ask questions, and share your thoughts to help shape the final proposal.
Learn more here:Â Proposed Development Permits for Agricultural Buildings
County of Newell - Public Hearing for Proposed Bylaw 2131-26 - Road Closure
The County of Newell in the Province of Alberta hereby gives notice of its intention to close the following portions of road:
W ½ 29-19-16W4M E ½ 30-19-16W4M NW & E ½ 31-19-16W4M W ½ 32-19-16W4M
NE ½ 34-19-17W4M N & NE ½ 35-19-17W4M NE & NW ½ 36-19-17W4M
W ½ 2-20-17W4M E ½ 3-20-17W4M
Take notice that a public hearing to consider the above-noted bylaw will be held on August 6, 2026 at 11:30 a.m. in the County of Newell Council Chambers. Any person(s) who claims to be affected prejudicially by the proposed bylaw must have registered their concerns, in writing, to the Chief Administrative Officer no later than 4:00 p.m. on July 30, 2026.
APEX Tech Night in Brooks
Tech Nights are a fun, relaxed networking environment where you can connect with the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) community in Southeast Alberta. They offer an opportunity for students and industry to engage with each other and include a Tech Talk where local experts share their stories to help inspire others.
Hear about the Brooks–Newell Hydrogen Hub, a project focused on advancing hydrogen production and fueling solutions for agriculture and commercial transportation.
August 20th, 2026 | Register here - carpooling available!
Advocacy in Action
Canadian Chambers of Commerce: Canada and U.S. Intensify Trade Talks Ahead of New Tariff MeasuresÂ
The United States took significant trade actions last week. On July 20, 2026, the U.S. imposed 50 per cent tariffs under Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930 on nearly US$20 billion in Canadian goods, effective August 19, 2026.
The three proclamations — covering motor vehicles, alcoholic beverages and dairy, respond to Canada's automotive content and quota rules, provincial alcohol restrictions and supply management of the dairy industry but extend well beyond these sectors to goods like furniture and textiles.
Notably, CUSMA-compliant products are not exempt. Canadian officials, including PM Carney, say negotiations are intensifying, with all response options under consideration and a comprehensive agreement the immediate priority.
At the same time, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer told the U.S. Senate Finance Committee that the United States is developing options for possible interim arrangements with Canada and Mexico before the end of the year, including potential changes related to rules of origin, enforcement and North American content. Canadian federal, provincial and territorial leaders have stressed the importance of maintaining a coordinated approach, while also advancing efforts to strengthen the domestic economy, including new measures to reduce interprovincial barriers to alcohol sales. For businesses, the coming weeks will be important in determining whether the August tariffs proceed and whether bilateral discussions can produce greater clarity on sectoral relief and the longer-term direction of CUSMA.
Separately, On July 23, 2026, USTR finalized Section 301 tariffs of 10 to 12.5 per cent on 60 economies over forced labour enforcement, effective July 24 (in-transit goods exempt if entered by July 28). Canadian goods are facing an additional 10 per cent tariff, a measure closely aligned with the action proposed by USTR in June. The decision confirmed the CUSMA carve-out for both Canada and Mexico, despite prior speculation. These new duties replaced the Section 122 global tariff, which expired July 24.
Next Level Events
CME Manufacturer's Roundtable in Medicine Hat
Express your interest in participating in CME's exclusive Workforce Roundtables for Manufacturers in Medicine Hat on August 13th, 2026. Participation is reserved exclusively for manufacturers, and each roundtable is limited to 12–18 participants to encourage meaningful discussion and ensure diverse representation from the local manufacturing community.
If you are interested in participating, please complete the registration form here. Discussion Topics include:
- Labour shortages
- Recruitment and retention
- Skills development
- Apprenticeship and work-integrated learning
- Immigration
- Rural workforce challenges
- Strengthening partnerships between industry and education
Please note that completing the registration form does not guarantee a seat. Registrations will be reviewed, and selected participants will receive a confirmation email with additional event details, including the venue, agenda, and logistics, in the coming weeks. If you have any questions, please reach out to Queenie Guerra at queenie.guerra@cme-mec.ca
Redcliff Youth Centre: Youth Mental Wellness Retreat
The Redcliff Youth Centre is hosting its inaugural Pathways to Resilience Youth Wellness and Resilience Retreat, aiming to support youth through outdoor adventure, connection, and evidence-informed mental wellness programming.
The three-day initiative, taking place August 12 to 14, provides opportunities for youth to build confidence, strengthen resilience, develop healthy coping strategies, and foster meaningful connections in a supportive environment.
The retreat is being offered free of charge, with the Youth Centre covering transportation, accommodations, meals, activities and programming to ensure financial barriers do not prevent youth from participating. Applications are now open for eligible youth interested in attending the retreat. Continue Reading
August 12-14 | Registration is open
Medicine Hat College Centre for Innovation Research and Innovation Showcase
Join the Centre for Innovation (C4i) at Medicine Hat College (MHC) for an exciting showcase of student-led applied research projects completed during the summer term. This event provides an opportunity to meet the student researchers, learn about their experiences, and explore the innovative solutions they have developed to address real-world challenges. Read more here.
Registration not required | In-person | August 18, 2026
Southeast Alberta Defence Stakeholder Workshop
Join key stakeholders from across Southeastern Alberta's defence, innovation, industry, academia, and procurement ecosystem to advance a shared vision for a Regional Defence Innovation Hub.
Discussion Points:
- Confirming the shared vision and purpose of a Regional Defence Innovation Hub
- Identifying key priorities, regional strengths, and opportunities for collaboration
- Defining practical next steps and a coordinated path forward
In-person in Medicine Hat | August 18, 2026 | 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
Chamber Members
We would like to welcome Intelligent Audio Visual Integration Ltd. - iAVi 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!
BDC: Strategies for managing a multicultural workforce
Managing employees from different cultural backgrounds can present unique challenges. But by implementing a few simple strategies, you can bridge any gaps and improve collaboration.
Read the article to discover:
- Where cultural tensions can come from
- Strategies to support mutual understanding
- Steps to foster engagement and innovation
Business Link Alberta: Alberta Summer Markets-Where Entrepreneurs Connect and Grow
Take your business into the community this summer. In this blog, Abigail Caballero, marketing and communications specialist at Business Link Alberta, shares how their team will be connecting with entrepreneurs, highlights upcoming events in Calgary and Edmonton, and offers practical tips to help you start conversations, gather feedback and build visibility.
Discover how participating in local markets and events can create connections that continue long after the tables are packed away.
Summer Special Olympics in Medicine Hat
We Shine Together! The 2026 Special Olympics is just weeks away, happening August 11th - 15th.
Special Olympics athletes from across Canada who have qualified to represent their home province or territory will gather at the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games, competing in ten sports for personal bests – and in some cases, the chance to represent Special Olympics Team Canada at the 2027 Special Olympics World Summer Game.
So be part of something unforgettable! The Games are still looking for volunteers to help make it all happen. Learn more about the games here, and sign up to volunteer here.
Elavon Meet or Beat Offer - Get a $250 Visa Gift Card!
During July and August, eligible new members who sign up through Elavon's Chamber Referral Program can take advantage of the Meet or Beat Promotion. Elavon will review the member's current processing rates and, if they are unable to meet or beat them, the member may qualify for a $250 Visa Gift Card, subject to the offer terms and conditions.
Manage payments wherever business takes you. With flexible payment options, next business day funding, and 24/7 support, you can run your business with confidence while giving your customers more ways to pay.
What are you waiting for? Get started! Find the payment solution that is best for you: join.paymentstart.com/CAChamber
*Offer valid from July 1 to August 31, 2026. Merchant processing cost comparison is based upon the calculation of the rate and associated per item cost as determined by the three most recent processing statements with a date less than four months old. Please allow 6 to 8 weeks for receipt of your $250 Visa gift card. The awarded gift card is not returnable, refundable, or reloadable, and cannot be used to make cash withdrawals. Use of awarded gift cards in certain provinces and other countries may be restricted by law. Use of awarded gift cards may be restricted at some online merchants, including pay-at-the-pump transactions. The awarded gift card is subject to restrictions, fees, limits, or costs established by the prepaid gift card issuer. The following business and rate types are excluded from this offer: merchants using proprietary mobile programs, merchants priced below established card network interchange costs, franchise locations accepting payments under a corporate pricing program, association membership, trade group, or warehouse pricing, petroleum merchants, and merchants processing through a third-party network. Offer may be extended, modified, or discontinued at any time without notice.
Fill Up On Funding
Student Work Placement Program (SWPP+) through Food Processing Skills Canada (FPSC)
The Student Work Placement Program (SWPP+) through Food Processing Skills Canada (FPSC) is now accepting applications for FALL 2026. Employers can be reimbursed 50% of gross wages paid up to $5,000 for each eligible student work placement per term.
SWPP+ is available to support Canadian food and beverage manufacturer employers and related industries in engaging students from Canada’s colleges and universities for work integrated learning placements for one or more semesters.
The following sectors are eligible for SWPP+ funding through FPSC:
- Food and Beverage Manufactures (all sub-sectors)
- Retail Grocery Stores
- Industrial Catering/Food Service
- Cannabis Edibles Processors
- Food Related Associations
B2B Matchmaking and International Summit in Bogotá: Airfare and Accommodation Covered
Canadian SME buyers interested in sourcing products or developing supplier relationships in Colombia are invited to apply for the Bogotá–Cundinamarca International Business Matchmaking event, taking place on September 23 and 24, 2026, in Bogotá.
Organized by the Bogotá Chamber of Commerce, the organization will review applications based on each company’s purchasing interests and their potential fit with participating suppliers from the Bogotá–Cundinamarca region. Selected buyers will receive a personalized schedule of pre-arranged B2B meetings with relevant local companies.
Opportunities are available in the following sectors:
- Food and beverages
- Construction and energy
- Health, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals
- Fashion and accessories
- Technology
- Printing, containers and packaging
- Round-trip international airfare in economy class
- Two nights of accommodation on September 23 and 24
- Airport–hotel transfers
- Support throughout the matchmaking process and on-site meetings
For selected buyers, the Bogotá Chamber of Commerce will cover the following for one representative per company:
- Round-trip international airfare in economy class
- Two nights of accommodation on September 23 and 24
- Airport–hotel transfers
- Support throughout the matchmaking process and on-site meetings
Participants will also attend the Global Dynamics: Reshaping Business International Summit, featuring discussions on global trends, investment and international economic cooperation.
For any questions, please contact Ana MejÃa (ana.mejia@ccb.org.co) and Erika Rondón (erika.rondon@ccb.org.co) from the Bogota Chamber. Registration deadline: August 30, 2026 (early registrations are highly encouraged) Link to Apply
Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) in the Prairie provinces
Through targeted support, the RTRI strengthens the competitiveness of impacted small and medium size enterprises (SMEs) by helping them diversify their markets, create new export revenue sources, adopt innovative technologies to boost productivity and competitiveness, and build more resilient supply chains.
To that end, RTRI will equip businesses, and the organizations that support them, to seize new opportunities, adapt to global trade disruptions, and boost domestic trade. These investments will contribute to long-term economic resilience in the face of continued global uncertainty. Find out more and apply.
Strategic Response Fund (SRF)
The Strategic Response Fund (SRF) helps Canadian industries innovate, adapt and compete in a changing global economy and supports large-scale, transformative projects that build economic resilience, strengthen supply chains and protect good jobs in key sectors such as steel, aluminum, automotive, forest products, AI and advanced technologies.
Building on the success of the former Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF), the SRF not only continues existing commitments but also expands support for industries affected by trade disruptions and tariff challenges. Check your eligibility and start the application process.
Crossword Puzzle
Crossword Puzzle Answers
Did you figure it out? Here are the answers for the July 28th 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 News
Alberta Labour Force Highlights
Alberta Indigenous Labour Force Highlights
Tourism in Canada, 2025: A pillar of economic resilience
Alberta and Ottawa sign deal to fund water, wastewater infrastructure for housing
Finding New Provincial Grant Opportunities (Search a listing of Government of Alberta open datasets and publications eg. 'Economy and Finance').
Other Events
August 5 | The Role of the Board Chair
August 5 | Unlocking Opportunity: How AWE Supports Alberta Women Entrepreneurs
August 12 | Building Strong Teams and Effective Relationships – Board Development
August 12 | Your Customers Are Your Best Marketers: How to Leverage Their Stories
August 13 | Bank on a Strong Start with RBC
August 18 | EDA Cananda Alberta Productivity Grant Webinar (CAPG)
Useful Links
Follow us on social media for up-to-the-minute updates
The Voice: August 4th, 2026
Small and Medium Businesses Tax Web Page, Canada Launches Public Consultations on Measures to Strenghten Canada’s Fight Against Forced Labour, Strategic Exports Office to Strenghten Canada’s Global Competitiveness, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Small and Medium Businesses Tax Web Page Looking for business tax information? The CRA has…
Read More The Voice: July 28th, 2026
Liquor Sales Application (LSA) Portal System Transition, Statement on Advancing Canada’s Pharmaceutical and Life Sciences Sector, Canada Launches Defence Drone Initiative, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Government of Canada launches Defence Drone Initiative to strengthen Canada’s sovereign defence capabilities The Government of Canada launched the Defence Drone Initiative (DDI),…
Read More The Voice: July 21st, 2026
Special Ballot Requests Now Open for October 19 Referendum, Alberta Business Priorities, Workplace Safety Supports Business Performance, Pacific Gateway and Pathways Progress, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Special Ballot requests now open for October 19 Referendum Online applications to Vote by Mail are now open for the October…
Read More