The Voice: October 13th, 2026
October 19th is Referendum Election Day, New Defence Procurement Model Proposed, Pacific Link Pipelin Advnaces to Federal Review, New Free Trade Explorer Tool, and more all in this week's edition of The Voice.
Business News
October 19 is Referendum Election Day
Alberta’s upcoming referendum is set for October 19, 2026 and includes questions related to federal–provincial relations, including immigration, constitutional matters and a question on whether Alberta should begin the legal and constitutional process toward a future referendum on independence. Advance voting days start this week from October 13th - 17th. October 16th is the last day for recieving special ballots by mail at Elections Alberta, and Election day is October 19th. Visit Where to Vote for your Election Day to find your best voting location.
Find information about the referendum: https://www.elections.ab.ca/elections/referendum/
Pacific Link pipeline advances to federal review
A proposed new pipeline connecting Alberta oil to Pacific markets has reached an important milestone. The Government of Canada has designated the Pacific Link pipeline as a project of national interest, moving it into a coordinated federal review process. The project would transport up to one million barrels of oil per day from the Edmonton region to a deep water port in southern British Columbia, helping expand access to global markets. Expanding market access and export capacity are critical to supporting investment, growth and long-term competitiveness. Project conditions are expected to be finalized by September 2027.
New defence procurement model proposed to strengthen industrial capacity
The federal government has introduced legislation to create the Defence Investment Agency, with the goal of streamlining defence procurement and strategic investment. The proposed changes aim to reduce delays and strengthen Canadian industrial capacity, creating potential opportunities for businesses in aerospace, advanced manufacturing, technology and related supply chains. Learn more
Government of Alberta seeking proposals for two new studies on Water Shortages
Alberta’s government is seeking proposals for two studies to address gaps, strengthen long-term water planning, establish clearer priorities and support more transparent funding decisions. The Water Storage Needs Assessment will look at current and future water demand and supply, population growth and economic growth in each basin. It will identify areas where demand could outpace supply, helping focus planning and investment where future water needs are greatest.
The Water Storage Cost-Benefit Review and Guidelines study will create common criteria for assessing water storage and other water infrastructure. The approach will help government compare projects fairly, weigh their costs and benefits and decide which should move to the next stages of planning, review and construction. It will also give ministries a common standard for setting investment and funding priorities.
The studies and the 100-year water security white paper will give Alberta the information and tools needed to plan for future water needs, support transparent decision-making, and balance environmental, social and economic factors. Studies regarding the water storage needs assessment and cost-benefit assessment guidelines will be completed by April 2027 and June 2027, respectively.
Proposals for each study will be accepted until Oct 14 for the water storage needs assessment and October 21 for the cost-benefit assessment guidelines. View this announcement online
National AI council launched to help shape Canada's AI strategy
The federal government has launched a National Council on Artificial Intelligence to help shape Canada's AI strategy and support greater adoption by businesses. The council will provide advice on areas including AI adoption, talent development, commercialization and infrastructure as Canada works to increase AI use across the economy. Learn more
New Free Tool – Trade Explorer
The Canadian Chamber Business Data Lab has launched Trade Explorer, a new free tool designed to help Canadian businesses identify international markets where their products have strong potential to compete. By combining Canadian export strengths with global demand indicators, the tool turns complex trade data into practical intelligence and helps businesses and the organizations that support them:
- Identify new market opportunities where demand for products that Canadian companies produce is greatest.
- See where Canada and our products have a competitive advantage and may have untapped export potential.
- Compare opportunities across 182 international markets.
- Support trade and business planning with evidence-based insights that can inform export programs, business outreach and diversification strategies.
Canada’s trade diversification challenge isn’t simply about exporting more; it’s about helping more businesses reach more markets. Read the Release | Explore the Tool here.
Medicine Hat-Cypress News
City of Medicine Hat Council Highlights October 5, 2026
At the October 5 Council meeting, Medicine Hat City Council approved two bylaws enabling the conversion of the Ranchmen Motel and Sundek Motel into a multi-unit housing development and approved a Development Permit for a package distribution and trans-shipment facility for Amazon, operated by a local logistics contractor, serving residential and commercial customers within approximately a 30-minute driving radius of Medicine Hat. Harvey and Loretta Fix, Dr. Deborah Forbes, Luke Lindoe, James Marshall and Mark Sakamoto were also approved to be inducted into the Arts and Culture Legacy Gallery. Read the full article on their website.
Cypress County Council Highlights – October 6
Cypress County council has rejected a proposal to rezone about 5.5 acres of agricultural land for a proposed public-service development. Council voted unanimously against the second reading of Bylaw 2026-23 Tuesday after a public hearing where neighbouring landowners raised concerns about farmland loss, traffic and future highway plans.
Cypress County will contribute up to $10,000 toward the 2027 Southern Alberta Summer Games, a decision approved during Tuesday’s meeting. The Town of Redcliff agreed to host the four-day event during its Sept. 14 meeting after the Town of Raymond withdrew.
Read the full article here | Watch the meeting Here | Council Minutes & Agendas
Medicine Hat remains among Canada’s most affordable urban rental markets
Medicine Hat remains one of Canada’s most affordable urban rental markets, even as asking rents in the city increased from a year earlier.
The average asking rent for purpose-built and condominium apartments in Medicine Hat was $1,339 in September, according to the latest national rent report from Rentals.ca and Urbanation.That made Medicine Hat the second-most affordable rental market among the Canadian markets tracked outside the country’s six largest cities, behind Fort McMurray at $1,258.Medicine Hat’s average asking rent increased 1.9 per cent from September 2025, putting it among the markets that recorded annual rent growth. Continue Reading
Apply for a City board, commission or working group position
The City of Medicine Hat is currently recruiting residents to serve on a variety of city agencies. Whether your interests lie in community development, planning, heritage, accessibility, public safety, libraries, or other civic matters, there's an opportunity to contribute your voice and expertise.
Applications are accepted until October 30, 2026 at 4:30 p.m. Are you ready to make a meaningful impact? Apply online at medicinehat.ca/cityagencies
Brooks-Newell News
County of Newell Public Hearing - Proposed Land Use Amendment Bylaw 2138-26
The County of Newell will hold a public hearing on October 22, 2026 at 11:30 a.m. in County Council Chambers to consider proposed Land Use Amendment Bylaw 2138-26.
The proposed amendment would redesignate portions of the southwest quarter of Section 25, Township 19, Range 15, West of the 4th Meridian from Agriculture, General District (AGEN) to Industrial, General District (I-GEN), allowing for the subdivision of three industrial lots.
Anyone wishing to make a written or verbal presentation regarding the proposed bylaw should contact the County's Chief Administrative Officer by 4:00 p.m. on October 15, 2026. A copy of the proposed bylaw is available for review at the County of Newell office during regular business hours. County of Newell Public Hearings
Applications are Open for Members-at-Large on County Boards & Committees
The County of Newell Council invites written applications from County residents interested in serving on the following Boards:
- Agricultural Pest Act/Weed Control Act Appeal Committee - 3 members required (4-year term). This committee is responsible for reviewing appeals of weed or pest notices and determining whether or not these notices are justified and suitable for the situation.
- County of Newell Library Board - 1 member residing within the Rosemary Library Area (3-year term). This board oversees the provision of library service throughout the County and meets four times per year in the evenings.
Applications will close at noon on Friday, October 16, 2026. Find the application form and instructions on how to apply here: https://countyofnewell.ab.ca/members-at-large
2026 Brooks-Newell Leadership Breakfast
Join us for our 2nd annual Brooks-Newell Leadership Breakfast, a signature event that brings together leaders from across our region. Happening Friday, October 23rd from 7:30am - 9:30am.
Confirmed Speakers:
- Mayor Norm Gerestein, City of Brooks
- Reeve Arno Doerksen, County of Newell
- Mayor Mike Wetzstein, Town of Bassano
- Deputy Mayor, Deborah Reid-Mickler, Village of Duchess
This is your opportunity to engage directly with regional decision-makers, participate in open dialogue, and help shape the conversation that drives our communities forward. Register for the breakfast here.
Seeds of Change: Rual Immigration Conference
With many rural or remote communities embracing immigration, it is becoming more and more important to have best practices for communities who may not have the capacity or resources that larger urban communities have. This is becoming more and more true as the future of immigration policy becomes unclear and sentiments and rhetoric around immigration begin to change. Presented by BCIS and the City of Brooks.
November 9 & 10, 2026 | Heritage Inn Hotel & Convention Centre, Brooks AB
Advocacy in Action
Have your Say: Prompt Payment Requirement
Alberta Infrastructure is conducting a short survey to better understand how prompt payment requirements are working on eligible Government of Alberta public works projects and has asked ACA to share the survey with our members. The survey is intended for subcontractors and sub-subcontractors who have worked on eligible Government of Alberta public works projects since April 1, 2025. Feedback will help Alberta Infrastructure better understand current payment practices and delays and identify opportunities for improvement.
Complete the survey: https://www.alberta.ca/prompt-payment-survey-for-subcontractors.
For more information, visit the Prompt Payment website at: Prompt payment rules for construction industry | Alberta.ca
Questions can be directed to INFRA.Policy@gov.ab.ca
Canada further reduces internal trade barriers
Canada’s internal trade ministers are speeding up work to reduce barriers that make it harder to hire workers, sell products and expand across provincial and territorial borders. At their meeting in Iqaluit on August 27, ministers committed to further expand mutual recognition within Canada, with a focus on trade in services and considering model mutual recognition legislation. What’s already changed? Updated labour mobility rules include a 30-day service standard for credential applications, and online digital registries for tradespersons are being implemented.
The Domestic Trade Commissioner Network has also supported more than 30 trade missions and over 2,000 businesses across Canada, with more missions planned this year. Learn more and join upcoming domestic trade missions led by Alberta Chambers of Commerce.
Alberta Chambers of Commerce Trade Missions Open Doors to New Markets and Business Growth
The Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce is encouraging local businesses to explore new opportunities through the Alberta Chambers of Commerce (ACC) Trade Missions program, an initiative designed to help Alberta businesses connect with new markets, strengthen partnerships, and accelerate growth across Canada.
As economic conditions continue to evolve, many businesses are looking beyond their traditional markets to find new customers, suppliers, and investment opportunities. The ACC Trade Missions program provides a practical pathway for businesses to build meaningful connections, access market intelligence, and engage directly with industry leaders and decision-makers.
"Trade missions are about more than travel. They are about creating opportunities," said Lisa Dressler, Executive Director of the Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce. "Whether a business is looking to expand sales, strengthen supply chains, explore new industries, or build strategic partnerships, these missions help open doors that might otherwise remain out of reach."
The program offers businesses opportunities to participate in trade missions across Alberta and Canada, connecting participants to targeted industry events, business development opportunities, site visits, networking sessions, and business-to-business meetings. Participants also benefit from pre-mission preparation and post-mission support to help maximize long-term results.
Upcoming trade missions feature opportunities in key sectors including:
- Aerospace, aviation, and drone technology through the AEAC Drone Conference & Exhibition in Montréal.
- Agri-food and food processing through SIAL Canada in Toronto.
- Technology and innovation through Web Summit Vancouver.
- Indigenous energy partnerships through the Spark Indigenous Energy Summit in Calgary.
- Agriculture and equipment manufacturing through Agri-Trade Equipment Expo in Red Deer.
- Construction and infrastructure through the Builders Connect Expo in Edmonton.
The initiative aligns with the Chamber's ongoing commitment to helping businesses diversify markets, strengthen competitiveness, and build resilience in an increasingly interconnected economy.
"Expanding beyond local and regional boundaries is becoming increasingly important for businesses of all sizes," added Dressler. "These missions provide valuable insights, connections, and opportunities that can help businesses grow while bringing new ideas and relationships back to Southeast Alberta."
Businesses interested in participating can learn more about upcoming opportunities through the Alberta Chambers of Commerce Trade Missions program at ACC Trade Missions.
Next Level Events
Small Business Week is Next Week
Every third week of October is Small Business Week - an annual event that celebrates entrepreneurs and recognizes the impact of small and medium-sized businesses on the local and national economy. To further support those businesses, many larger organizations offer free webinars:
Finding growth in a faster world | Oct 20, 2026 | 12:00 p.m. (ET)
Smart AI investments that pay off | Oct 21, 2026 | 12:00 p.m. (ET)
Using acquisitions to accelerate growth | Oct 22, 2026 | 12:00 p.m. (ET)
The Next Owners: Turning Business Succession into Opportunity | Oct 23, 2026 | 11:00am
Innovation Canada Events
Fall is the perfect season for learning and growth, and there are some great events coming up to help you learn how to leverage government support for your business.
Innovation Canada’s Business Support Expo
In partnership with the Business Development Bank of Canada, this event brings together Government of Canada resources designed to support Canadian entrepreneurs and help SMEs start, grow or scale their business. This is where you can meet federal government representatives, hear from experts and ask questions. What’s more, this year Canadians from across the country can tune in virtually to catch our panel sessions. For more information and to register: Eventbrite
Innovation Canada Webinars
From scaling your business to learning more about digital adoption, we've got webinars focused on the business issues that matter most. For more information and to register: Eventbrite
The Next Owners: Turning Business Succession into Opportunity
Starting a business isn’t the only way to become an entrepreneur. Repreneurship, taking over, renewing and growing an existing business, can offer an opportunity to build on an established foundation, bring new ideas to life and support the jobs and communities that depend on it.
If you are a Business owner who is thinking about succession or selling their business; an aspiring entrepreneurs / next-generation owners interested in buying an existing business; if you are exploring “repreneurship” and the opportunity to take over, renew and grow an established business or if you are a professional or advisor involved in business succession, financing or ownership transitions, this session is for you.
Find out more | Register to attend on October 23, 2026 at 11:00 am.
Free Alberta OHS Webinar | Building the Foundations of Safe, Fair, Healthy Workplaces
Are you a small or medium sized employer? Check out this webinar to learn about current employment standards in Alberta, certificate of recognition (COR) programs and resources that can assist you with recruitment, retainment, and much more.
Date: Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026 | Time: 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
For more information or to register, visit the Building the Foundations of Safe, Fair, Healthy Workplaces event page.
BusinessLink Alberta Webinar | Preparing Your Business for Financing
Thinking about financing your business? Knowing what lenders are looking for can help you feel more prepared.
Join BusinessLink Alberta for a free webinar on October 15 to hear directly from lending professionals about what goes into a financing request. We’ll explore how to determine how much funding you need, the role of your business plan and financial projections, what can strengthen or weaken an application, and how lending requirements can differ between organizations.
October 15 at 12 p.m. | Online | Free | 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 Magnum Fabricating Ltd. and Dee's Kitchen 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!
Momentum Builds for New Brooks Multi-Sport Field Complex with Major Grant and Community Investment
The vision for a new outdoor multi-sport field complex at Brooks Junior High School continues to gain momentum following significant funding announcements that are helping bring the project closer to reality.
The Brooks Community Football (BCF) secured $1,489,594 through the Government of Alberta's Active Communities Initiative grant, providing a major boost toward construction of the new facility. Grasslands Public Schools is partnering with BCF on the project, which is targeted for completion in the fall of 2027.
Adding to that momentum, Canadian Natural Resources Limited (CNRL) has donated $100,000 to support development of the complex. The contribution will fund the purchase and installation of a new state-of-the-art electronic scoreboard, enhancing the experience for athletes, spectators and community users.
Local businesses, sponsors and community members interested in supporting the remaining fundraising efforts can contact Jaret Hofer at 403-362-3524. Read the whole release here.
Auto-Star Expands with New Sales Representative
Auto-Star is pleased to welcome Lara Hawel as ClearTEQ’s Sales Representative. Recently relocated from Vancouver, Lara has been getting to know Medicine Hat and connecting with business owners throughout the community.
With more than 15 years of experience across sales, customer success, SaaS and entrepreneurship, Lara brings a practical, consultative approach to her new role. She will work directly with businesses throughout Southeast Alberta to understand their needs, review their current POS and payment solutions, and explore opportunities to simplify operations and reduce unnecessary costs.
“I’m looking forward to meeting more of the local business community and learning about the unique ways they operate,” says Lara. “Every business is different, and I’m excited to help find solutions that fit the way each business works.”
Read more in Member News here. To learn more, visit their ClearTEQ Shop Local page.
Exclusive Chamber Member Offers: Grand Slam of Curling Masters
The world’s best curlers are coming to Medicine Hat this fall. The Grand Slam of Curling Masters takes over Co-op Place from November 3–8, 2026, bringing top men’s and women’s teams from around the world to the city for six days of internationally televised competition. Through the Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce, members have access to exclusive offers to bring employees, clients and colleagues to experience the action live.
15% Off for Chamber Members
Save 15% on eligible weekday and weekend tickets with promo code CHAMBER15 through this link.
Team Outings & Staff Appreciation
Special group pricing is also available through this link:
- 10 tickets for $230 + HST: use code GSOCTEAM10
- 20 tickets for $440 + HST: use code GSOCTEAM20
Additional tickets can be added for $25 + HST each with the 10-ticket package or $20 + HST each with the 20-ticket package.
VIP Experiences
Looking to entertain clients or reward your team? A very limited number of VIP lounge tables are available. Contact Kristi Petrushchak at kristip@thecurlinggroup.com for details.
Get tickets: Use your Chamber-exclusive promo code when purchasing through the Grand Slam of Curling ticket page.
Fill Up On Funding
Assisted Living Innovation Grant Program
The Assisted Living Innovation Grant Program supports organizations to develop, test, implement and evaluate practical innovations that improve services and outcomes across Alberta’s assisted living system. Projects may introduce a new approach or adapt an existing approach for a new setting, population or purpose, such as:
- Applications open: October 7, 2026
- Deadline for questions: November 4, 2026
- Application deadline: November 6, 2026 at 4 pm (Alberta Time)
- Applicants notified: January 2027
Learn more about eligibility and application at https://www.alberta.ca/assisted-living-innovation-grant-program.
New federal fund targets food distribution infrastructure
The Government of Canada will open applications for the $1-billion Food-Link Fund on Oct. 14. The program will support wholesale food terminals, regional food hubs and related storage, processing and distribution infrastructure aimed at improving food supply chains and market access. For Alberta's agriculture and agri-food sectors, the fund could help strengthen regional distribution networks and connect producers with new domestic market opportunities.
Expressions of interest will be accepted until Dec. 11, 2026. Prepare to apply
AB invests $5.5M into workforce development through AISG program, opens applications
The Government of Alberta is investing $5.5M through the Alberta Industry Skills Grant (AISG) in 2026-27 to support initiatives that will address sector-wide skill shortages and enable provincewide workforce development.
“At a time of economic uncertainty, it is critically important we maintain a competitive workforce that can keep up with the speed of investment,” said AB Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade, and Immigration Joseph Schow.
“This keeps jobs closer to home and benefits Alberta families by increasing knowledge and skills on the job.” Applications are being accepted for the competitive grant program, with successful projects expected to begin in early 2027.
Free psychological First Aid training
The Canadian Red Cross is offering free, self-paced Psychological First Aid training through December 31, 2026. The Caring for Others and Self-Care courses help individuals build skills to support others during emergencies while maintaining their own well-being.
Funding available to help Prairie businesses scale and grow
Prairie businesses looking to commercialize innovations, increase production capacity or expand into new markets can apply for funding through the Business Scale-up and Productivity (BSP) program. Eligible small and medium-sized businesses may be able to access repayable funding to support productivity improvements and strategic growth initiatives. Learn more
Crossword Puzzle
Crossword Puzzle Answers
Did you figure it out? Here are the answers for the October 6th 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
October 15 | AI for Export: How to Use AI and Digital Tools to Reach Global Clients
October 15 | Rethinking the Future of Co-operatives: Academic & Co-operative Education Panel
October 21 | Skilled Trades Fair
October 22 | EMC – Lean and Green Manufacturing
Useful Links
Follow us on social media for up-to-the-minute updates
The Voice: October 13th, 2026
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