The Voice: June 24th, 2025
Prime Minister Carney and President Trump Agree to Canada-US Deal within 30 Days, National Indigenous Peoples Day, Trade and Tariffs Resources, and a Farewell to Chat TV all in this week's edition of The Voice.
Business News
Prime Minister Carney and President Trump Agree to Canada-U.S. Deal Within 30 days
On the sidelines of the G7 Leaders' Summit in Kananaskis, Prime Minister Carney confirmed that he and President Trump have agreed to pursuing a bilateral deal aimed at building a “new economic and security relationship” within 30 days. The commitment followed a 70-minute meeting between the two leaders. According to the official Canadian readout of the meeting, in addition to the new economic and security deal between Canada and the U.S., the two leaders also discussed immediate trade pressures, critical minerals, gun and drug smuggling, illegal drugs, border security and cooperation on defence. Watch the interview with Canadian Chamber’s Matthew Holmes
National Indigenous Peoples Day
National Indigenous Peoples Day and National Indigenous History Month is a meaningful opportunity for us all to learn more about Indigenous experiences, traditions and knowledge – a commitment to reconciliACTION. We can come together to deepen our understanding, strengthen our relationships and reaffirm our commitment to reconciliation.
“Indigenous Peoples have played a vital role in shaping Alberta for countless generations, and their wisdom and guidance continue to enrich our province. Indigenous voices and perspectives are vital to our collective future, and we must continue to listen.” Minister Rajan Swhney | Learn more about how you can get involved.
However, it’s not just about one day, or one month, take time to listen, learn, & lead beyond June.
Trade and Tariffs Resources
We’ve been gathering Trade and Tariffs Resources for our business community as listed below:
- AEEP: Alberta Export Expansion Program | Alberta.ca
- Alberta Chambers of Commerce Supply Chain Network, an initiative dedicated to addressing the challenges faced by business in sourcing local suppliers and overcoming supply chain disruptions and Building Business Resiliency page
- Alberta Innovates ITPP: International Technology Partnership Program
- ATB Tariffs, Trade and Alberta
- BDC: Resources for businesses affected by U.S. tariffs
- Bids and Tenders: Navigating Tariffs: Strategies, Support & Solutions for Suppliers
- Business Link: Preparing for Tariffs
- Canadian Chamber: Canada-US Trade Tracker
- Canadian Free Trade Agreement
- Canadian Manufacturers and Exports: Information Hub & Trade and Tariffs
- Canadian Survey on Interprovincial Trade, 2023
- Conference Board of Canada: The True Cost of Trump Tariffs: Provincial Impacts
- Directory of Canadian Companies
- Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC): Tariff Updates
- EMC Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium: Member Needs Help Q & A Canada-US Trade
- Export Development Canada: United States Market Intelligence and solutions to navigate uncertainty
- Government of Canada's response to U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods and supports for Canadian exporters
- Government of Canada: Understanding CUSMA compliance
- Government of Alberta: Interprovincial Trade and Trade Agreements
- MNP Trade Impact Navigator; Tariff Exposure Risk Assessment Tool
- Startup Canada: Tariff Toolkit
- Calgary Economic Development: Trade Accelerator Program
- Tariff Finder
- Trade Commissioner: Trade Commissioner Service – Home
The Government of Alberta is looking for insights about how they can make internal trade easier: We want to hear from workers, business owners or representatives of a business association or organization facing, or aware of, challenges doing interprovincial trade: https://www.alberta.ca/leading-the-way-on-interprovincial-trade. You can view other articles about trade and tariffs here: https://chamber.southeastalbertachamber.ca/advocacyinsights
A Farewell To CHAT TV - Come and say goodbye.
Please join us for a final farewell to CHAT TV. Meet some of the people who worked at the station, telling your stories and reporting the news, sports and weather. Come by, hear the story of the final day, and say thank you and farewell to the last employees of CHAT TV in Medicine Hat. There will even be an opportunity to take some pictures.
WHEN - Tuesday, July 8, 2025 @ 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
WHERE - Medicine Hat Public Library Theatre
Medicine Hat-Cypress News
Saamis Solar Project Financing/Structuring Consultant
The City of Medicine Hat is requesting proposals for the Saamis Solar Project Financing/Structuring Consultant. The Question deadline for is July 4 with the bid closing date of July 10.
June 16 City Council Meeting Highlights
City Council’s mid-June meeting had a full agenda! Councillor Hider acknowledged the recent Alberta Chamber of Commerce AGM event hosted by the Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce and congratulated the chamber team on 125 years of service to the community. Council received a presentation on Bylaw 4852 to amend the Tri-Area Intermunicipal Development Plan, which passed. Council also passed motions requesting several statistical reporting metrics from Peoples Services to be displayed on the City’s website and in the Tri-Annual Report. Council also approved the City Centre Vibrancy Program to run until the end of next year. Check out the highlights for more! Watch the meeting
June 24 Public Hearing: Potential incorporation of a municipally controlled corporation
PURSUANT to sections 75.1, 75.5 and 606 of the Municipal Government Act, Revised Statutes of Alberta 2000, Chapter M-26, as amended (the “MGA”) and section 3 of the Municipally Controlled Corporations Regulation, A.R. 112/2018 (the “Regulation”), the Council of the City hereby gives notice that a public hearing will be held on Tuesday, June 24, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers (580 First Street SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta). The purpose of the public hearing will be for Council to hear and consider submissions from the public regarding the potential incorporation of a municipally controlled corporation (“MCC”), with the City as the sole shareholder, that would operate the City’s electric generation, electric distribution and gas distribution business units (and the supporting energy marketing and business analysis function).
In accordance with section 3 of the Regulation, the City met the public disclosure requirements by publishing the business plan and presentation materials (“Disclosure Documents”) for the proposed MCC via the agenda for the May 20, 2025 Regular City Council meeting, on the City’s website (www.medicinehat.ca) on May 16, 2025.
Any person who wishes to view the Disclosure Documents may do so by attending at the City Clerk’s office at City Hall,( 580 First Street SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta) between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday to Friday or by accessing the City’s website (www.medicinehat.ca) using the following link: Energy Business Strategic Review - Municipally Controlled Corporation (MCC) and Rate Review Committee (RRC) Disclosure.
Any person who wishes to make an oral presentation at the public hearing will be limited to five minutes. Written/electronic submissions – all written submissions received prior to the public hearing will be provided to City Council. Submissions received by 12:00 noon, on Tuesday, June 17, will be published in the Regular City Council Meeting agenda. All written/electronic submissions become public documents and must be submitted to the City Clerk Department at 580 First Street SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 8E6 or via e-mail: clerk@ medicinehat.ca. The public hearing will be conducted in accordance with the City’s Procedure Bylaw No. 4725, as amended, and section 216.4 of the MGA.
- A high volume of ER visits stem from workers needing return-to-work notes, often without access to family doctors.
- Internationally recruited doctors face credit challenges that limit their ability to buy homes or open clinics.
- Participants emphasized that collaboration is key—not just to recruiting doctors, but to keeping them here and ensuring quality care for the whole region.
The idea of creating a "One Clinic" model in Brooks—where local physicians work collaboratively in a single system—was well received by the doctors present. It’s seen as a potential solution to increase efficiency and coverage. Source: Larkspur
Rec and Ride Youth Pass
The City of Medicine Hat’s Parks and Recreation department is pleased to introduce a new Rec and Ride Youth Pass for the upcoming summer season. The pass is a collaborative initiative between the City of Medicine Hat’s Parks and Recreation department, Medicine Hat Transit (MHT), and the YMCA of Southeastern Alberta. Youth aged 13-17 are eligible for a Rec and Ride Youth Pass. For $50, passholders are granted unlimited transit use, as well as entry to six total City and YMCA recreation facilities in Medicine Hat when valid. Passes go on sale Monday, June 23 and are valid from June 27 to September 5! Check out which facilities are included, how to purchase, and more information on this initiative on our website at the link below! Medicinehat.ca/rec-and-ride
Brooks-Newell News
Restructure for Joint Services
Members reviewed a new approach to strengthen regional partnerships and economic development. This comes after months of work by local CAOs. Two major changes:
- Replace the Joint Services Committee with a new Intermunicipal Affairs Committee (IAC), focused on collaboration, shared services, and regional advocacy.
- Shift Brooks Newell Region Economic Development (BNRED) from a formal committee to a service agreement, with the City of Brooks delivering regional economic development services under a shared strategic plan.
The IAC would meet 2–4 times a year, involve all elected officials, and guide big-picture planning. Source: Larkspur
Local Leaders Hear AHS & RhPAP Insights
Council members recently joined over 25 community stakeholders to discuss rural healthcare challenges and opportunities with Alberta Health Services (AHS) and the Rural Health Professions Action Plan (RhPAP). The meeting included representatives from the City of Brooks, the County, the Village of Duchess, the University of Calgary, Medicine Hat College, local doctors and nurses, and healthcare foundations.
Key takeaways included:
- There is growing support to offer full Registered Nurse (RN) training locally at Medicine Hat College’s Brooks campus. Leaders believe this would help more students stay—and stay working—in the area.
- The maternity clinic sees 40–50 patients per week, many of whom require IV iron infusions that tie up ER space.
- Of the 19 doctors in Brooks, only 10 cover both maternity and emergency services, which puts pressure on scheduling and availability.
- A high volume of ER visits stem from workers needing return-to-work notes, often without access to family doctors.
- Internationally recruited doctors face credit challenges that limit their ability to buy homes or open clinics.
- Participants emphasized that collaboration is key—not just to recruiting doctors, but to keeping them here and ensuring quality care for the whole region.
The idea of creating a "One Clinic" model in Brooks—where local physicians work collaboratively in a single system—was well received by the doctors present. It’s seen as a potential solution to increase efficiency and coverage. Source: Larkspur
Kinbrook Connection Pathway
The pathway is getting closer to completion, but remains closed to the public. Some people have been moving barricades, but officials are asking residents to respect the closure signs. Construction is progressing well, with concrete bases now poured for benches and sun shades. The trailhead plaza is taking shape near the flagpoles at the County Building. Trailhead signage will help users plan for sun exposure, distance, and safety. While there have been suggestions to add more trees or features, the pathway was designed to give scenic prairie views of Lake Newell. Source: Larkspur
Advocacy in Action
ACC 2025 Policy Book
The Alberta Chambers of Commerce 2025 Policy Book is now available, featuring all policy resolutions passed at this year’s AGM and Policy Plenary. These policies will remain active for the next three years and serve as the foundation for our advocacy efforts. Each recommendation is communicated to government and relevant ministries, helping shape a more competitive environment for Alberta business.
Chamber Submission on Proposed Municipally Controlled Corporation
We recognize that Medicine Hat’s energy business has been central to its identity since the early 1900s, providing employment, affordable and reliable services, and a steady source of municipal revenue. Its success epitomizes the City’s strength, independence and ingenuity, and is a significant source of community pride.
However, the conditions under which the energy business flourished are changing with local natural gas production declining, Alberta’s electricity market undergoing significant reforms and the transition to a low-carbon economy and changing regulations, all of which impact the City’s ability to economically generate electricity with its natural gas units.
With changing market conditions and increasing rates, it was prudent for the City to look at its business model, a move that the Chamber commended in our letter of October 2023, asking for further conversations and consultation regarding the future of the utility and to gain greater clarity on future direction. The City engaged KPMG and they chose to evaluate three models after considering the energy business's current state and outlook including the status quo; a Municipally Controlled Corporation (MCC); and Divestiture. The resulting recommendation was to pursue a Municipally Controlled Corporation.
After information was presented and the decision to host a public hearing was made, the Chamber of Commerce encouraged members review the one-hour long segment from the presentation on May 20 to City Council, and encouraged our members to view further information and the governance model proposal by visiting medicinehat.ca/mcc. We hosted a members’-only event on June 9, so our members could ask questions to the project team, hear from other Chamber members and hear responses to those questions. We highlighted the opportunities for public participation on June 6th and June 11th, along with the Q&A tool on Shape Your City: https://shapeyourcity.medicinehat.ca/mcc. We also encouraged our members to share their feedback on whether they are for or against the proposed model through submissions to City Council by Tuesday, June 17 at 12:00 pm by emailing their submission to clerk@medicinehat.ca or by presenting at the public hearing on Tuesday, June 24 at 4:00 pm in City Council Chambers.
In addition, we surveyed our membership to gain insight and feedback and determine if our membership wished for the Chamber to take a formal position on the proposed municipally controlled corporation. We had 36 of our 709 members respond from the Medicine Hat service area, signifying a 5% response rate. Read the summary and submission to City council
Senate Committee of the Whole Appearance
On June 16, the Canadian Chamber, appeared before the Senate Committee of the Whole to provide remarks on Bill C-5, The One Canadian Economy Act. They highlighted the urgent need to reduce internal trade barriers and accelerate the development of critical infrastructure across Canada. Watch the appearance
Next Level Events
Energy in Motion!
Every Saturday for the month of June enjoy fun activities, games, and outdoor excitement designed to celebrate and promote our amazing green spaces. It’s all about getting active, connecting with community, and showcasing everything parks and recreation has to offer. Click on the event for more details:
CANANDA DAY CELEBRATION
Medicine Hat’s biggest Canada Day celebration is back - and you’re invited! 
Join us June 30th and July 1st at Kin Coulee for two days of food, music, culture, and community!
Monday, June 30th – Come check out Glow Up The Globe from 5:00pm to 11:30pm, Day 1 of our Canada Day Festival!
Tuesday, July 1st – Day 2 of the Canada Day Festival, all day! Citywide yoga, pancake breakfast, Homestead market, Beat the Heat, performances… need we say more?
To make this event possible, we’re looking for sponsors and volunteers to support the breakfast. Items needed include:
- 4,000 paper plates
- 4,000 napkins
- 35 bags of pancake mix (from Costco)
- 40 cases of sausage (from Medicine Hat Wholesale)
- 4,000 forks and knives
- 15 containers of Tang
- 35 jugs of pancake syrup
- 8–10 volunteers for cooking
- 2–4 servers per table (we anticipate running 4–5 pancake lines)
- Additional help for stocking, coffee/juice service, and general support
Volunteer sign up: https://canadadaymedicinehat.ca/volunteer-application/ | More Info: https://canadadaymedicinehat.ca/
Make sure to like and follow to stay updated!
Facebook: Canada Day Medicine Hat | Instagram: @canadadaymedhat | Linked In: Canada Day Medicine Hat
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 Train Alberta Inc, Solar YYC, and CLS Connections 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!
ACC celebrates Alberta's best in business at annual Alberta Business Awards of Distinction with Global Growth Award to QinetiQ Target systems Canada
The Alberta Chambers of Commerce proudly hosted the 34th annual Alberta Business Awards of Distinction on June 19, 2025 bringing together leaders from Alberta’s business community, government, and chamber network to honour excellence across thirteen award categories.
The 2025 awards recognized 36 finalists from communities across Alberta, representing a diverse cross-section of industries, innovation, and community leadership.
“We’re thrilled that we’ve been awarded the Global Growth Award at the 2025 Alberta Business Awards of Distinction! This recognition is a proud moment for our entire team—and a celebration of what Alberta innovation can achieve on the world stage. With several of our team members currently deployed internationally, and a dedicated crew preparing one of our Barracuda uncrewed surface vehicles for operational test and evaluation, this award is a reflection of the extraordinary people behind the work. Who would have thought that over 700 uncrewed surface vehicles would be built and exported from the Canadian prairies? Yet here we are—delivering leading-edge defence solutions across 40+ countries, powered by a passionate Alberta-based team and a robust Canadian supply chain. Thank you to the Alberta Chambers of Commerce for this honour, and to our global partners, customers, and collaborators for trusting us to support missions that matter. This award belongs to the team—and to Alberta.” Corrie Dale, Managing Director, QinetiQ Group Canada Inc.
Congratulations to all the 2025 Alberta Business Awards of Distinction recipients.
Congratulations to our local Members for being named 2025 NewGrow Winners
- The Babe Bar
- TnA AutoGlass
- Magnet Signs Brooks
Prairie Rose has been awarded $750,000 in funding
Prairie Rose has been awarded $750,000 in funding from the Alberta Government to expand collegiate programming!
This funding will enhance the South Alberta Flight Academy and support the launch of a brand new stream — the South Alberta School of Agriculture in partnership with Medicine Hat College and Neubauer Farms 🐐.
Building on the great work happening at the Irvine Agriculture Discovery Centre, this program will offer high school students hands-on pathways in:
🌾 Agriculture & Environmental Sciences
🌱 Horticulture & Greenhouse Management
🛠️ Skilled Trades
Thank you to Minister Nicolaides and the Alberta Government for supporting rural innovation and opportunity! https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16K5UgcBxP/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Your Canadian roots are showing—and so are ours.
As Canadians, it’s in our roots to lend a helping hand and support each other. For over 85 years, Doane Grant Thornton has been proudly supporting businesses and communities across Canada and Southern Alberta—helping them grow, succeed, and thrive. Being Canadian shapes how we do business, and we’re excited to help shape your legacy. Connect with one of our team members in Medicine Hat or Brooks to get the conversation started today.
Fill Up On Funding
Canada Strong Pass
From June 20 to September 2, 2025, the Canada Strong Pass will offer Canadians free or discounted access to national parks, museums, and VIA Rail travel. The Pass includes free Parks Canada admission, discounted camping, and free travel for kids under 17. This initiative encourages Canadians to explore the country’s rich culture and natural beauty.
Canada Disability Benefit applications open June 20
Starting June 20, 2025, eligible Canadians with disabilities can apply for the new Canada Disability Benefit (CDB). First payments will begin in July for applications approved by June 30. Applicants must be aged 18–64, qualify for the Disability Tax Credit, and have filed a 2024 tax return. The benefit aims to improve financial security and will be accessible online, by phone, or at Service Canada offices, with community organizations offering support.
Are You Eligible For The Government Of Canada’s Strategic Innovation Fund?
The Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) provides major investments in innovative projects that will help grow Canada's economy for the well-being of all Canadians. SIF covers all sectors of the economy and is available to for-profit and not-for-profit organizations with the goal of supporting the Canadian innovation network. SIF provides funding for 2 categories of projects, each with their own set of requirements:
Business Innovation and Growth projects led by individual companies seeking funding to support their business.
Collaborations and Networks projects led by companies or non-profit organizations seeking funding to support their innovation network.
Up To $200K For Zero-Emission Vehicles
Drive your business toward sustainability. The iMHZEV Program offers Canadian organizations incentives of up to $200,000 to purchase or lease eligible medium- and heavy-duty zero-emission vehicles. Explore options to reduce emissions and operating costs.
Crossword Puzzle
Crossword Puzzle Answers
Did you figure it out? Here are the answers for the June 17th 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
Marketing Strategies in Foreign Markets
Unlocking Indo-Pacific Markets
June 25 | Women in Agriculture | Startup Women 2025 | Register
July 8 | Build Your Online Presence — Fast | Register
July 10 & 15 | Secure Your Growth: Strengthen Your Business Before Cyber Threats Hit | Register
July 17 | Setting up Shop: From Local to Global | Register
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The Voice: June 24th, 2025
Prime Minister Carney and President Trump Agree to Canada-US Deal within 30 Days, National Indigenous Peoples Day, Trade and Tariffs Resources, and a Farewell to Chat TV all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Prime Minister Carney and President Trump Agree to Canada-U.S. Deal Within 30 days On the sidelines of the…
Read More The Voice: June 17th, 2025
Canada’s Defence Investment Plan (2025-26), Occupancy Permits: going with the Flow Chart, A Shout-Out from Invest Alberta on New Solar Facility in Duchess and Tax Equity: Narrowing the Gap between Residential and Non-Residential Property Taxes all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Canada’s Defence Investment Plan (2025-26) The federal government has announced…
Read More The Voice: June 10th, 2025
Provincial Cabinet Policy Committees, Actions to Improve Labour Mobility in Canada, Accessibility Standards Canada Publishes Revised Standard on Accessible Employment, and Report Shows Alberta Producing More Oil and Less Emissions all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Provincial cabinet policy committees Cabinet policy committees are essential to the work of government, reviewing…
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