The Voice: November 3rd, 2026
New Task Force to Make Trade Faster and More Efficient, Alberta has a New Time Zone, Alberta's Fall Legislative Agenda, Alberta and Canada Advance High-Speed Rail Plan, and more all in this week's edition of The Voice.
Business News
Alberta has a new time zone: (UTC-6) Mountain Time (Alberta)
Alberta has adopted NEW permanent Alberta Time (previously called Mountain Daylight Time or MDT in Alberta) to eliminate the previous practice of semi-annual clock changes. Its official abbreviation is “ABT.”
Sunday, November 1, the new time zone officially came into effect and for the first time clocks did not get turned back by an hour. Stay mindful during this transition and double-check times for bus schedules, registrations, appointments, and online services to avoid any confusion.
For details on how to ensure your personal devices and applications update properly, visit Alberta.ca.
Canada launches new task force to make trade faster, simpler and more efficient
Canada will work with industry to modernize trade and make it easier for businesses. The Task Force will bring government and industry together to identify barriers, provide practical solutions, and accelerate the digitalization of trade in Canada. Trade digitalization can help Canada to:
- streamline and accelerate trade processes
- reduce shipping delays, costs and administrative burden,
- enhance the security of trade information, and
- improve the efficiency and predictability of shipments.
A key part of this is a “Tell Us Once” approach, where businesses submit information once to be securely shared across federal departments and agencies. This would reduce duplication, save businesses time and money, and make it easier to move goods within Canada and across its borders. Continue Reading
Alberta allowing optometrists to perform minor laser procedures
Alberta has become the first province in Canada to allow qualified optometrists with additional training to perform certain minor surgical and laser procedures in their offices. The expanded services will include removal of benign skin lesions, treatments of styes and certain laser procedures. The regulatory changes expand the procedures that specifically trained optometrists can provide directly in community clinics. This means eligible patients will be able to receive more advanced eye care from an optometrist without being referred elsewhere for those services
By making more eye health services available through optometrists, more Albertans will have opportunities to get the care they need sooner and closer to home. This is particularly important for rural and remote communities, where accessing care can mean lengthy travel and wait times. For patients, the changes could mean fewer referrals, fewer appointments, less travel and earlier access to treatment. Continue Reading
Alberta's fall legislative agenda
Within the fall sitting of the Legislature, Alberta's government plans to introduce legislation addressing affordability, health care, education and the economy, with a strong focus on protecting Albertans, their property and the province's interests. On affordability, proposed legislation aims to lower auto insurance costs and strengthen protections on utility bills. Other measures of interest to the business community include:
- Stronger protections for data centre development
- Consumer protections for resale event tickets and defective vehicles
- Increased accountability for commercial truck drivers and harsher consequences for unsafe driving
- Higher penalties for illegal dumping, including significant fines and potential jail time
- Merit-based public-sector hiring and stronger safeguards for personal information
The agenda also includes amendments to the Compassionate Intervention Act ahead of its 2027 launch, better coordination across health and mental health services, and education legislation. View the announcement online
New consumer protections proposed for Alberta, including right-to-repair and lemon laws
The Government of Alberta has introduced Bill 34, the Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction Statutes Amendment Act, which proposes amendments to the Consumer Protection Act and other legislation. If passed, the changes would strengthen protections for Albertans and build greater trust in a fair and transparent marketplace. Key proposals include:
- Lemon laws: A path to refunds, replacements or other remedies through the courts for vehicles with serious defects that cannot be fixed. Standards would apply within the first three years or 60,000 km of purchase, such as after three unsuccessful attempts to fix the same defect or 12 unsuccessful attempts to repair multiple defects.
- Right to repair: Better access to parts, tools and repair information for products such as agricultural equipment, vehicles, electronics and household appliances. Specific products and requirements would be set through regulation.
- Credit freezes: Albertans could freeze access to their credit reports to help prevent fraud.
- Ticket resale transparency: Clear disclosure of prices and fees on resale tickets, with the option to explore a cap on resale markups following consultation.
- Surface Rights Board: Re-established to give landowners a dedicated process for resolving surface rights disputes, including compensation and land access.
- New opportunities for local retailers: A pilot program would allow select liquor stores to sell lottery tickets, as gas stations, grocery and convenience stores already do.
Industry groups have welcomed the changes. Alberta Grains chair Scott Jespersen noted that "during seeding and harvest, every hour counts," calling the announcement a welcome step toward giving farmers greater control over equipment repairs. Continue Reading
Alberta and Canada advance high-speed rail plan
Alberta’s government is preparing to launch a formal Request for Proposal (RFP) process this fall, inviting private-sector proponents to submit proposals for a downtown Calgary-Red Deer-downtown Edmonton high-speed rail project that also includes service to Alberta’s two largest airports and the City of Airdrie. The successful proponent’s project proposal will be expected to include minimal financial investment by the provincial government and be integrated into existing passenger rail systems in Calgary and Edmonton. Alberta’s government plans to select a proponent by April 2027. Continue Reading
Medicine Hat-Cypress News
Residential building permits in Medicine Hat continue to lag
Compared to 2025, September was a relatively slow month for building permits in Medicine Hat, with a total of 48 issued, and just one for housing. The majority of permits issued last month (35) fall under the Residential Alteration – Other category, which represents $617,000 in value.
This number is down from September 2025 after the city issued three single housing permits, four duplex permits and one for a manufactured home. With more than 40 more for residential alterations, a total of 56 permits were issued. Continue Reading
Know someone who would be a great fit for a City agency?
The City is recruiting for public members on their boards, commissions, and working groups. These groups need diverse perspectives, people with lived experience, fresh ideas, and a passion for making a difference. Any resident of Medicine Hat who meets basic eligibility can apply. Most groups meet monthly or as needed. Attendance and active participation are expected. Which agencies have openings available?
- Assessment Review Board
- Combative Sports Commission
- Community Vibrancy Advisory Board
- Heritage Resources Working Group
- Municipal Planning Commission
- Public Library Board
- Police Commission
- Subdivision and Development Appeal Board
- Working Group for Accessibility and Inclusion
You can apply by visiting medicinehat.ca/cityagencies. Review the Applicant Handbook and Download and fill out the application form.Submit your application, including form, (optional) video, and resume, before November 13 at 4:30 p.m.
Lethbridge-Medicine Hat Labour Market Update
A compiled overview of the labour market information contained in the supporting reports, bringing key economic, employment and hiring information together in one document.
Brooks-Newell News
Seeds of Change: Rural 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.
Sharing best practices in newcomer readiness, integration and retention through the lens of rural municipalities. Build the network of municipal leaders, economic development professionals, settlement services and community development organizations who each play a role in making rural immigration a success.
November 9th and 10th | Register here: https://seedsimmigrationconference.com/
Join the Recreation & Parks Board - Apply Today!
The City of Brooks is looking for a community member to serve as a Citizen at Large on the Recreation & Parks Board.
The Recreation & Parks Board is responsible for guiding the long-term vision and growth of our community’s recreational spaces, facilities, and programs. This Board plays a key role in shaping the future direction of recreational and park development, ensuring that new initiatives meet the evolving needs of residents. By reviewing existing resources, exploring new opportunities, and recommending improvements, the Board supports a vibrant, active, and inclusive environment where community members of all ages can enjoy quality recreational experiences.
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Learn more here.
Advocacy in Action
Canadian Chamber Appearance Before the Legislative Committee on Bill C-39
Canada needs to get major projects built faster and keep goods moving reliably. Both are essential to attracting investment, expanding trade and creating opportunities across the country.
Last week, members of the Legislative Committee on Bill C-39 heard from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, who shared the business community’s perspective on this important piece of legislation.
They urged committee members to preserve measures to accelerate project approvals, while adjusting provisions enabling the Minister to act in rare and exceptional circumstances before a shutdown harms businesses and workers. Learn More
Why Having Southeast Alberta at the National Table Matters
From October 26-29, the Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce participated in the Chamber of Commerce Executives of Canada Conference and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce AGM & Convention in Victoria. The four days brought together Chamber leaders from across Canada for professional development, national economic discussions and, most importantly for our members, national policy debate.
This year, Southeast Alberta brought our region's priorities directly into that process. Our Improving Risk Management for Agriculture Producers policy, calling for improvements to livestock risk management, crop and livestock insurance, AgriStability and whole-farm risk-management tools, received 99% support. Our renewed Promoting Canada's Agriculture Industry policy, focused on public trust, the Canada Brand and greater agricultural literacy, received 90% support. And our new Supporting Canadian Beverage Manufacturers resolution addressed tariff-related pressures facing Canadian manufacturers using aluminum cans received 97% support.
These are tangible examples of local and regional business concerns becoming national Chamber priorities. Read more in Advocacy Insights here.
What talent does your business need to grow?
The Alberta Chambers network has partnered with industry and the Government of Alberta to understand where staffing shortages are holding your business back, and which skills you will look for in future hires.
Share your perspective in this quick 5-minute survey.
Share your perspective! The survey is open until 5:00 PM on November 9, 2026.
Next Level Events
2026 Presidents' Reception & Annual General Meeting
See what we've been up to in the past year all while getting a chance to eat, drink and connect with others at our Annual General Meeting and President's Reception! Join us for an opportunity to meet and network with the Chamber of Commerce members, current/ past Directors and Presidents of the Board, and the Chamber operations team.
November 24th from 5:00pm - 8:30pm | Register here
Growing Forward: Agriculture Roundtable with Minister Sawyer
Join the Chamber for a focused roundtable with Minister Sawyer to discuss the issues that matter most to Southeast Alberta's agriculture sector, including business risk management, water security, regulatory modernization and red tape, market access and interprovincial trade, workforce capacity, innovation and productivity.
This is an opportunity for producers and agri-food businesses to bring their experiences directly to the table, hear the Minister's perspective on provincial priorities, and explore practical opportunities for government and industry to work together. Come prepared to share what's working, what's getting in the way, and what needs to change to keep Alberta agriculture competitive, resilient and growing.
November 9th from 12:30pm - 1:30pm | Cypress Centre, Medicine Hat | Register here.
EDC WEBINAR: Protect profitability as export costs rise
Rising tariffs, freight expenses, import costs and customs requirements are increasing the cost of doing business internationally and making it harder for Canadian exporters to protect their margins. In this webinar, EDC will discuss how companies are responding to tariff-related cost pressures and what to consider when identifying hidden costs, customs requirements and potential duty recovery opportunities. What you’ll learn:
- How to identify the biggest sources of margin erosion in your export business
- How to calculate landed costs and find hidden costs affecting profitability
- How customs programs, duty recovery opportunities and trade agreements can help reduce costs
- Practical steps to make more informed pricing, sourcing and operational decisions while protecting profitability
Thursday, November 5, 2026 | 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm ET | REGISTER HERE
Credit as Leverage: Smart Funding for Early-Stage Entrepreneurs
Could credit help you make your next business move? Whether you’re preparing to launch your business or already bringing in sales, deciding how to fund your next step can be challenging. Borrowing can create opportunities, but it’s important to understand when credit makes sense and how to use it wisely.
That’s why ACTI is hosting a FREE online workshop in partnership with Woveo, focused on making informed funding decisions for your business. Explore how credit can support revenue-generating investments and what to consider before taking on debt.
Thursday, November 5, 2026 | 5:00 p.m. MT | Register for this online event here
B2B opportunities Alberta/France - Meet France’s CCUS innovators in Calgary November 12-13, 2026
The Europe trade team in collaboration with Business France welcomes an incoming French delegation of innovative companies in the CCUS sector.Business France is bringing a delegation of French technology and service providers spanning the CCUS value chain, from carbon capture to CO₂ transport and storage monitoring. Alberta companies and organizations are invited to connect with the delegation at a networking reception on November 12, 2026, and through targeted B2B meetings on November 13, 2026, both in Calgary.
For more information, contact Gauthier Aubert at gauthier.aubert@businessfrance.fr | Register here: Advancing the Future of CCUS: France Meets Calgary · Luma
Enriching Your Business
There's a reason Chambers Plan is Canada's #1 plan.
Todd Currie, Exclusive Chamber Group Advisor
Medicine Hat & District | (403) 504-2166 ext 2
Scott Walls, Exclusive Chamber Group Advisor
Brooks-Newell Region | (403) 892-9675
Fuelling the Business Community
Chamber Members
We would like to welcome Timko Home Improvements 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!
Business acquisition assessment for entrepreneurs
This self-evaluation will help you assess your readiness to buy a business. An acquisition is an excellent way to grow revenues, diversify and improve your business performance. It’s even a great way to become a first-time business owner. Your goal may be to:
- Acquire a business similar to yours | This can help increase your market share, talent pool and technology assets.
- Buy a company in your value chain | This can improve supply reliability, strengthen distribution and cut costs.
- Expand outside your industry | You may want to enter a new industry, add new capabilities or diversify revenue.
- Get started as an entrepreneur | Acquisition is an excellent way to become a business owner without having to start a company from scratch.
This quiz will help you understand how prepared you are for an acquisition and where you need to make improvements.
Exclusive Chamber Member Offers: Grand Slam of Curling Masters
The world’s best curlers are coming to Medicine Hat! 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
Veteran Employer Recognition Initiative
The Veteran Employer Recognition Initiative is a way to recognize companies that support hiring Canadian Veterans and creating a workplace where they can thrive. It recognizes employers who actively support Veterans in their transition from military to careers after service by creating inclusive, supportive, and Veteran-ready work environments.
Controlled Environment Agriculture Growth Pathway Program: Controlled Environment Agriculture Technology Adoption Stream
The Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) Technology Adoption Stream supports producers in adopting, expanding, and modernizing CEA infrastructure and technologies, including automation, robotics, lighting, and digital growing tools. The stream aims to:
- increase Canada’s year-round production and availability of fruits and vegetables
- diversify CEA production by supporting emerging or novel crops with commercial potential
- encourage the adoption of technologies and practices that improve productivity, resource efficiency, sustainability, and competitiveness
- strengthen food security, food system resilience, and local and regional food production
Apply from October 30, 2026 to December 23, 2026, 12 pm (noon) Eastern Time. The intake period may close sooner if funding has been fully committed or if otherwise announced here. The program ends March 31, 2033. More information and to apply
Northern and Regional Economic Development (NRED) Program Intake 5 is Open
The NRED Program funds initiatives led by Alberta municipalities, Indigenous communities and non-profit organizations that promote regional economic development and diversification. The fifth intake is accepting applications until 4 pm on November 19, 2026. Details about the program, including the Program Guidelines, Application Companion Guide, and the link to the Online Application Portal can also be found on the Northern and Regional Economic Development Program webpage.
There last NRED Program information session is on Thursday November 12, 2026 - 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. – Click here to join.
WILWorks Skilled Trades in Advanced Manufacturing – Wage Subsidy of up to $5,000!
This EMC program is designed to build a skilled workforce for Canada’s manufacturing future, utilizing employer-led, hands-on training and mentorship. Participants gain access to self-directed e-learning focused on introductory technical skills in mechanical, electrical and machining. Integrate training easily into the workplace while allowing participants to gain valuable, real-world experience during a training period of 8 weeks or more.
Funded by the Government of Canada’s Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy, eligible employers receive a wage subsidy of up to $5000 to support quality training periods. Help build the manufacturing workforce of tomorrow! Learn more here.
Emissions Reduction Alberta: Agriculture, Water, and Land Challenge
Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA) is investing up to $60 million through its new Agriculture, Water, and Land Challenge to help the province’s agriculture, forestry, water, land, and waste technologies move from pilot to practice. The Challenge supports innovative technologies that improve how Alberta produces, uses, remediates, and manages its natural capital. The Challenge is open to all categories of lead applicants, including:
- Producers, farmers, ranchers, and processors
- Technology developers, small and medium-sized enterprises, industrial operators, and utilities
- Indigenous communities and organizations, municipalities, and not-for-profits
- Researchers, post-secondary institutions, and individuals
Applicants can be based in Alberta or elsewhere, but the project must be piloted, demonstrated, or deployed in Alberta.
EXPRESSION OF INTEREST DEADLINE: Wednesday, December 16, 2026, 5 p.m. MT | More Info and Apply Here
Get a head start at the Ask Me Anything webinar: The webinar will cover eligible projects, funding requirements, key deadlines, and the application process, with plenty of time for questions. The webinar is the best place to learn what ERA is looking for and build a stronger submission.
WEBINAR: Thursday, November 12, 2026, 11 a.m. to noon MT | Register today
Federal government launches $1.75-billion venture and growth capital plan
The federal government has announced a $1.75-billion plan to expand financing for Canadian startups and scaling businesses, including $1 billion through the Venture and Growth Capital Catalyst Initiative and $750 million for early- and growth-stage investment.
Applications for the fund-of-funds stream are open until January 21, 2027, and feedback on the growth-stage investment stream is being accepted until November 23, 2026. Learn more
Crossword Puzzle
Crossword Puzzle Answers
Did you figure it out? Here are the answers for the October 27th 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.
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The Voice: November 3rd, 2026
New Task Force to Make Trade Faster and More Efficient, Alberta has a New Time Zone, Alberta’s Fall Legislative Agenda, Alberta and Canada Advance High-Speed Rail Plan, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Alberta has a new time zone: (UTC-6) Mountain Time (Alberta) Alberta has adopted NEW permanent Alberta…
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Read More The Voice: October 20th, 2026
Small Business Week, CRTC Takes Action to Improve Information about Cellphone Coverage, New Inclusive Hiring Resource Hub Now Avilable, Reopening the Registration Process for Eligible Historical Agricultural Water Use, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News October 18th – 24th is Small Business Week The Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce…
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