The Voice: January 13th, 2026
Alberta Next Panel Delivers Report, Build Canada Homes: Thousands of Homes in the Pipeline, Central hub for a Northwest Coast Oil Pipeline, OSI Alberta Releases the December Edition of the "Let's Chat Stats' Newsletter", and more all in this week's edition of The Voice.
Business News
ALBERTA NEXT PANEL DELIVERS REPORT
Following months of engagement across the province, the Alberta Next Panel has delivered seven recommendations to enhance Alberta’s sovereignty within a united Canada.
The panel’s final report reflects extensive online engagement and 10 in-person town halls held across Alberta during the summer and fall of 2025, reaching thousands of Albertans in communities across the province.
The government caucus will review these recommendations in the coming months to discuss which of the recommendations it intends to adopt as a government; no final decisions have been made at this time. The report is available now to the public.
Read the full article here
BUILD CANADA HOMES: THOUSANDS OF HOMES IN THE PIPELINE
The Government of Canada is taking a new approach to increase the supply of housing in Canada, and launched Build Canada Homes, a new federal agency that will build and finance affordable housing at scale, while catalyzing a more productive homebuilding industry.
Read the full story and see how the Federal Government is planning to tackle the housing crisis.
CENTRAL HUB FOR A NORTHWEST COAST OIL PIPELINE
Alberta’s government launches a webpage dedicated to a proposed pipeline to the northwest coast. The new website includes information for all people in Alberta and across Canada on the economic benefits of a pipeline, the engagement underway with Indigenous communities, and the expedited process that is underway to seek approval from the federal Major Projects Office.
The initial phase of the pipeline project focuses on early dialogue with Indigenous communities, determining the potential route and costs and demonstrating market demand, economic viability and need for a new pipeline. This will lay the groundwork in attracting investment from industry to build the pipeline in partnership with Indigenous communities.
More info about this new website HERE | Visit the new website HERE
OSI ALBERTA RELEASES THE DECEMBER EDITION OF THE ‘LET’S CHAT STATS’ NEWSLETTER
The Office of Statistics and Information (OSI), within Treasury Board and Finance, Economics and Fiscal Policy Division, is Alberta’s statistical agency and the province’s focal point for Statistics Canada. The OSI’s mission is to provide high-quality, insightful and accessible data and analysis to support informed decisions about issues that matter to Albertans. Our vision is a better Alberta, through the OSI’s contribution and leadership in expanding knowledge and insights about the province and its people.
The eighth edition of this newsletter has been released and highlights:
- Recent Statistics Canada Analysis
- Upcoming Statistics Canada Releases
- The Quarterly Population Report for Q3 2025
Medicine Hat-Cypress News
CITY COUNCIL MEETING HIGHLIGHTS – JANUARY 5TH, 2026
During the January 5 City Council Meeting:
Three Public Hearings were held to discuss the proposed rezoning of several residential lots. Following the hearings, Council approved all three bylaw amendments.
Council also directed administration to pause the Request for Proposal (RFP) for a new south-end recreation facility to allow the incoming council to review future plans.
Additionally, Joseph Hutter, Managing Director of Public Services, was appointed Interim City Manager through March 31, 2026.
For full details, download the agenda package or watch the full meeting on the City of Medicine Hat’s YouTube channel.
MEDICINE HAT PUBLIC DIVISION DECIDES TO SHUTTER PAIR OF ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
Medicine Hat’s public division has decided it will close a pair of elementary schools this spring in an effort to cut costs and consolidate resources amid dropping enrolment.
Medicine Hat Public School Division’s board of trustees voted unanimously Tuesday to shutter Webster Niblock and Southview Community schools at the end of the academic year after consultation with families last fall. The full story here.
2026 COMMUNITY VIBRANCY GRANT APPLICATION WINDOW NOW OPEN
The City of Medicine Hat has begun accepting applications for the Community Vibrancy Grant. The Community Vibrancy Grant has one funding stream in 2026 – Community Project and Activities. The current application window is now open until Friday, February 6, 2026 at 3 p.m.
Applicants are encouraged to fully read the City’s grant funding guidelines and criteria to ensure their project and application meet the program objectives and eligibility criteria.
Brooks-Newell News
CITY OF BROOKS TO BECOME ACCREDITED AGENCY IN GAS, PLUMBING, AND ELECTRICAL DISCIPLINES
The City of Brooks has announced that they have officially received approval to become an accredited agency in the Gas, Plumbing, and Electrical disciplines. Starting January 26 2026, they will handle these permits directly—making it easier than ever for you to apply for all your Safety Code permits in one place.
Previously, applicants had to apply through the Alberta Safety Codes Authority for Gas, Plumbing, and Electrical permits, while they processed Building Permits. With this new accreditation, you’ll enjoy a streamlined, one-stop process for all your permit needs.
Important Transition Notice: To ensure a smooth transition, there will be a 10-day blackout period from January 16-26 2026, during which permit applications cannot be processed. This temporary pause allows them to transfer responsibilities between agencies. Read more about this announcement on their Facebook here. For more information, contact them directly by email development@brooks.ca or call 362-3333.
ANOTHER EVENTFUL DAY IN BROOKS
Before the holiday break, Naomi and Lisa had an opportunity to tour the Crop Diversification Centre (CDC), see upgrades to the Silver Sage Ag Society Arena and hold our Board meeting at SureStay - a great space and location for our meetings.
The CDC holds a total of 750 acres between 4 locations with each field providing 15-25 acres of testing cropland space that can be used for small plot research land for new varieties, new chemicals, or other new research. This space is ideal for chemical companies, researchers and producers looking at new opportunities and an ideal conduit for your idea and the space to test it.
The CDC will be an Economic Driver for the region, partnering our strong agricultural roots with new research and technology space. We had the opportunity to drive around and see the orchard for apples, saskatoons, chokecherries, and crab apples, along with other cropland. We saw the 10 greenhouse bays that have 750 sq feet/bay with 4 out of 10 actively leased out.
There are also 2 propagation/germination bays at 2,000 sq ft with 2 poly production bays at 7,000 sq ft, along with 2 glass bays at 8,000 s ft.
There are 30 outbuildings with different purposes and equipment storage space. We were also pleased to see the controlled storage with coolers and freezers, which we know has been an ask in the region. The old Potato lab has 1 large (1200 sq ft), 2 medium, and 6 small coolers and the Hargrave Building has 2 freezers and 2 coolers. The property has a beautiful rose garden, arboretum and picnic shelter, along with washrooms that can be rented for special events.
The Griffin Building is now renovated and fully occupied as well. We look forward to seeing the potential of this space fully realized and the economic impacts for the region.
Next up, a drive out to Silver Sage Community Corral to see the construction in progress with some amazing new balcony space for events. We had the opportunity to view some practice barrel racing - it's always great to know how many incredible spaces we have in the region available for public use. They were also gearing up for their annual New Year’s event.
We’re excited to cut the ribbon when all the renovations are complete. Both Max and Darrel were gracious hosts and Max had this to share about our Chamber, “It has been very rewarding and fun to have your contribution and interest in our projects. You are a very important resource and are doing a very good job for us. Thank you.” Max Tateson
And thank you, to all our members for your trust and support.
Then it was off to SureStay, despite the blizzard conditions, we braved the storm and were thankful to SureStay for hosting us in their meeting room. They always make it so easy for us to come in and set up and the exterior door access makes it easy for people to come directly into the meeting room.
Even though we couldn't host our Christmas Social at Piston Broke due to weather conditions, before heading home, we visited our friends at Shawarma County. They are always warm and welcoming and it always feels like you are greeted by family when you walk in the doors. We stayed just long enough for the weather to pass over and head on the highway once again.
Despite the change in weather that day, it was a great way to wrap up the year in Brooks-Newell, knowing there are exciting opportunities ahead.
The FIRST McMornings Winner is...
Advocacy in Action
ACC ENCOURAGES SWIFT ACTION ON U.S. TRADE CONCERN AHEAD OF CUSMA REVIEW
The Alberta Chambers of Commerce is encouraging the Government of Alberta to quickly and decisively resolve a U.S.-raised trade concern affecting cross-border electricity trade with Montana ahead of the upcoming CUSMA joint review. Ambassador Jamieson Greer has advised the House Ways and Means and Senate Finance Committees that resolving outstanding issues—including this Alberta-specific concern—will influence the review’s outcome and recommendations.
Next Level Events
Coffee & Conversations
WHEN: Thursday, January 15th at 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
WHERE: MT Nest Cafe & Market | Unit 104 266 4 St SW Medicine Hat, AB
Join the Chamber Thursday morning to enjoy coffee and conversations about your business, our business, or life in general! This is a great opportunity to connect in the mornings if your afternoons and evenings are too busy. You can stop by for a quick hello or stay and chat for a while; everyone is welcome!
Bring Back the Porch Grand Opening
WHEN: Thursday, January 22nd at 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
WHERE: Bring Back the Porch | 524 2nd Street Suite 201, Medicine Hat, AB
Join us in celebrating the grand opening of Bring Back the Porch, a Medicine Hat podcast. Refreshments, snacks, and a ribbon cutting at 3:30 PM. Come meet your neighbours at Bring Back The Porch where conversation is always welcome. Pull up a chair and let's talk!
Sip and Learn - Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Sharpen your decision-making skills in this one-hour Sip & Learn session. You’ll get a taste of Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, a Medicine Hat College Extended Learning Course designed to help you solve problems, make better decisions, and handle complex situations at work. Through engaging discussion and a short, practical activity, you’ll explore simple ways to spark new thinking and collaboration. Leave with insights you can apply right away and the curiosity to dive deeper in the full course.
*Appetizers are included in the price of admission, and a cash bar is available.
January 27, 2026 from 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM | Register Here
CO-OPS 101
Business Not as Usual is hosting a FREE three-part virtual series created to help young adults explore the world of co-operatives. Whether you’re curious about how co-ops work, want to join one, or are dreaming up your own, these short, interactive sessions will give you the knowledge, tools, and real-world examples you need to get started.
JAN 27 | WHAT IS A CO-OP? | 12PM MT
FEB 3 | GET INVOLVED IN A CO-OP. | 12PM MT
FEB 10 | HOW TO START A CO-OP. | 12PM MT
Register for each session here - Sign up for 1, 2, or all 3 sessions
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 Bruce's Sewer Service Ltd, SecurePony Professional Services, and Spartan Crane & Consulting LTD. 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!
REDI Enterprises with the Province of Alberta working in partnership with the Government of Canada launches “Runway” providing employment support programs and services In Southern Alberta.
Runway, a transformative new employment initiative in Southeastern Alberta to support individuals facing barriers to workforce participation. The Work-Based Learning (WBL) Program, funded by the province and delivered by REDI Enterprises Society, is designed to empower individuals with a diagnosis or suspected diagnosis of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), Acquired Brain Injury (ABI), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or other barriers to employment.
This innovative, person-centered program offers comprehensive assessment, skills training, job placement, on-site coaching, and wraparound supports to help participants secure and sustain meaningful employment.
For more information visit www.redi.ca/runway; or contact REDI at takeflight@redi.ca, and 403.526.5742. Read their announcement on Member News here.
Olena Mitsuk attained status of Candidate for the Chartered Professional in Human Resources designation
The Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce would like to extend a congratulations to Olena Mitsuk with Medicine Hat College - Brooks Campus on recently attaining the status of Candidate for the Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) designation.
The CPHR designation is a nationally recognized level of achievement within the field of Human Resources. Achieving the designation represents a commitment to a national standard of excellence, sets a benchmark for the practice of effective Human Resources, and emphasizes the strategic role of human capital management in business. To obtain the status of CPHR Candidate, Olenahas passed the National Knowledge Exam thus proving their deep and extensive knowledge of the HR proficiencies outlined in the CPHR Canada Competency Framework.
Visit their website at https://www.cphrab.ca/ for more information about their association and the CPHR designation.
BDC: WHAT CAN CANADIAN ENTREPRENEURS EXPECT FOR 2026
Slow growth and uncertainty will create challenges for businesses, but new technologies, a wave of business transitions and emerging economic priorities for Canada will also create opportunities. How to get prepared? Adaptability, planning and focus will be essential for success. 2025 was not an easy year for the Canadian economy. Can we expect 2026 to be better? Yes and no. The outlook remains mixed, as many issues that marked 2025 are expected to continue in 2026.
New Year. New Savings: Elavon Promotion
From invoicing and managing inventory to staff scheduling, and analytics we have solutions to help your business run efficiently and securely accept payments, from anywhere that your customers are located – at the counter, in the aisle, online, or curbside.
To get you started we will give you a $150 statement credit* when you open a new payment processing account for your business by February 28, 2026. Learn more and get started today!
* To qualify for the promotion, you must sign up for a new payment processing account with Elavon Canada between January 1 and February 28, 2026. Merchant accounts must be activated and actively processing payment transactions by March 15, 2026 for a minimum of one week and be in an open status at the time of the incentive credit. A one-time $150 credit will be applied to your Elavon statement within 90 days after the first deposit date. Limit one credit per customer. Cannot be combined with another offer. Elavon reserves the right in its sole discretion to modify, suspend or terminate the promotion at any time without additional notice. Restrictions may apply. Services provided by Elavon Canada Company.
Copyright © 2026 Elavon Canada Company. All rights reserved. Elavon is a trademark in the United States and/or other countries. All rights reserved. All features and specifications are subject to change without notice. This document is prepared by Elavon as a service for its customers. The information discussed is general in nature and may not apply to your specific situation.
Fill Up On Funding
Access affordable talent through the FuturePath program
Many businesses across Southeast Alberta are looking for ways to expand capacity, test new ideas, and access skilled talent without adding overhead. Riipen’s FuturePath program offers a flexible, subsidized way to get work done while connecting with emerging professionals from colleges and universities across Canada.
Through short, project-based collaborations (10-420 hours), companies get fast support in areas like marketing, research, technology, and operations. If you're looking for help - or simply curious about adopting AI in your workflows - student talent is one of the easiest ways to get started. Students work with new tools every day, making them quick to learn and comfortable testing solutions that can benefit your business.
Co-funded by the Government of Canada, FuturePath is a low-risk, cost-effective way to move important projects forward. The program also handles paperwork, billing, and reporting, saving you time.
Nine out of ten employers say they plan to keep using this approach. Learn how subsidized support can help your business grow
Clean Tech Newsletter
- Accelerating Cleantech Innovation Competition | Register here for the informational webinar, taking place on February 3rd, 2026 | Submission deadline: February 18
- Global Gas Innovation Call | Learn more and apply here | Deadline: February 17, 2026 5:00 pm MST
- International Technology Pilot and Demonstration Program | Learn more and submit your registration here | Deadline: Jan 30
You can find additional market opportunities, business supports and funding all in the Alberta Clean Tech Newsletter – Jan 2026.
NGIF Industry Grants
Industry Grants is a program that offers a non-dilutive grant to startups that delivers solutions to the environment and other challenges facing the natural gas sector. Industry Grants program has strong connections to every part of the gas value chain, offering startups a means to test and develop clean technologies through field trials and pilots.
Deadline: Ongoing | For further information, please visit: https://www.ngif.ca/industry-grants/
Gender-Related Injury and Illness Prevention Program (GRIIPP) launched
Alberta’s new Gender-Related Injury and Illness Prevention Program (GRIIPP) launched on December 11, 2025. GRIIPP will provide $1.8 million in grant funding from 2026 to 2028 for research on gender-based factors that cause increased rates of workplace injury and illness among women, such as ill-fitting personal protective equipment and higher rates of workplace violence and harassment. The results of this research will support women’s participation in the workforce through:
- prevention of injury and illness
- identification of best practices
- recommendations for OHS policy and practice
- knowledge translation activities
Applications for GRIIPP funding are now open; the deadline for submitting an application is March 16, 2026. For more information, including eligibility requirements and instructions on how to apply, visit the GRIIPP web page.
Crossword Puzzle
Crossword Puzzle Answers
Did you figure it out? Here are the answers for the January 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 Resources
Alberta Economy Indicators at a Glance
Labour Market Notes – Labour market takes a breather
Access the report: Alberta housing
BDC: AI for Sales and Marketing
For other publications on the Alberta Economy, click here.
Other Events
Events — APEX | Regional Innovation Network of Southeast Alberta
January 14 & 28 | Dare to be Different: Finding Your Way in a Crowded Market | Virtual
January 15 to March 7 | Grow Your Business with Automation & AI Start up Canada | Virtual
January 16 | Unlocking Global Growth: Supports for International Expansion | Calgary
January 30 | Sales Pipeline Mastery Start up Canada | Virtual
Useful Links
Follow us on social media for up-to-the-minute updates
The Voice: January 13th, 2026
Alberta Next Panel Delivers Report, Build Canada Homes: Thousands of Homes in the Pipeline, Central hub for a Northwest Coast Oil Pipeline, OSI Alberta Releases the December Edition of the “Let’s Chat Stats’ Newsletter”, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News ALBERTA NEXT PANEL DELIVERS REPORT Following months of engagement…
Read More The Voice: January 6th, 2026
Top 5 OHS Portal Resources of 2025, Bank of Canada Leaves Rates Unchanged, Congratulations to MLA Justin Wright on his New Leadership Role, Government of Canada Implements Buy Canadian Policy, Child-Care Agreement Extended, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Welcome 2026, Happy New Year! Business News Top 5 OHS Portal Resources…
Read More The Voice: December 16th, 2025
Happy Holidays from the Chamber, Alberta Legislature Fall Session Comes to an End, Statistics Canada Releases ‘Immigrants in Alberta’ Economic Outcomes Report, Aurora AI, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Happy Holidays from Your Chamber Team! As we wrap up an incredible year, we want to send a big…
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