The Voice: March 31st, 2026
Meet Samuel, Quarterly Alberta Job Vacancy Report, New Councillor Accountability Framework, Alberta Positioned to Lead in Lithium Production, and more all in this week's edition of The Voice.
Business News
Meet Samuel, our new Member Relations Coordinator!
Meet Samuel (or Sam) Tawiah, the Chamber’s new Member Relations Coordinator!
Samuel is originally from Ghana and pursued both his undergraduate and master’s degrees in Italy. After completing his studies, he moved to Canada to further enhance his professional career and gain international experience. He visited Medicine Hat in the summer of 2025 and has loved it ever since. Known for his positive energy and strong sense of community, he enjoys building meaningful connections wherever he goes.
Outside of his professional life, he is a great dancer and loves playing basketball. His vibrant personality make him someone who easily brings warmth and enthusiasm into any environment
Our team is the driving force behind our mission to grow and nurture a strong, healthy business community in our region – meet the team!
Quarterly Alberta Job Vacancy Report
The Quarterly Alberta Job Vacancy Report for the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2025 is now available.
The Q4 2025 data reinforces that labour availability remains a critical issue for southeast Alberta businesses. Stable vacancy numbers mask ongoing hiring difficulty, particularly outside major cities. Proactive workforce planning and targeted policy supports will be essential to sustaining regional economic growth in 2026 and beyond. For employers, labour force data is an important factor in implementation of actions and strategies that business need to consider. Some key recommendations would include:
- Investment in retention strategies
- Broaden hiring approaches, including entry‑level training, mentorship, and inclusive recruitment.
- Consider shared, part‑time, or outsourced professional services to manage specialized needs.
Interested in learning more about Hiring Highlights in Alberta? Check out our Labour Market Information Portal at Hiring highlights | Labour Market Information! Interested in more supports? Check out the Chamber of Commerce business resources or job posting page for more. Now is also a critical time to consider Youth Employment, as students are already seeking out summer employment opportunities- a key strategy in building your future talent pipeline. Find out more here.
New Councillor Accountability Framework
Proposed changes to the Municipal Government Act would set clear, provincewide standards for councillor conduct and establish a consistent process to address complaints. If passed, the new Councillor Accountability Framework would set consistent standards of conduct, misuse of influence, unauthorized use of municipal assets, disclosure of confidential information, and serious misconduct. It would also preserve councillors’ ability to speak openly and represent their communities while upholding transparent and professional conduct.
Under the framework, complaints will be directed to an independent third party appointed by the province, with municipalities covering investigation costs. Municipal Affairs would also have the authority to initiate investigations directly when necessary. Appeals would be heard by a commissioner drawn from a provincial roster. Complaints involving pecuniary interest that could result in disqualification may proceed to court if required. Find out more.
Alberta positioned to lead in lithium production
A new Alberta Geological Survey report confirms Alberta is sitting on one of the largest lithium resources in the world, estimating Alberta has 82.5 million tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent in place, positioning the province to become a major global supplier, with potentially the third-largest reserves in the world.
Global demand for lithium is accelerating, driven by batteries, energy storage and advanced technologies. Alberta is taking action to turn this potential into a new industry. Work is underway to attract investment, improve regulatory processes and introduce new incentives to support critical minerals development, with a targeted launch in 2027. Find out more.
Medicine Hat-Cypress News
City launches Downtown Enhancement and Safety Grant
The City of Medicine Hat is launching the Downtown Enhancement and Safety Grant, a new program designed to support local businesses and property owners in making practical improvements that contribute to a safer, more welcoming city centre.
YHX Lands Reimagined as Gateway Business Park
With refreshed branding and updated pricing, the area is now primed for commercial and light industrial investment. The City’s team is ready to guide buyers through the next steps and help projects launch efficiently. Learn more about the project's development, progress, and status here: Government's $152 Million Investment Advances Highway 3 Twinning
Work on the rebranding began in 2025, focusing on repricing land opportunities to make them more competitive and attractive. The highway twinning further underscores the strategic advantage of this location, making the name “Gateway Business Park” a natural fit.
View the Gateway video here | Visit the Gateway website here
LED upgrades enhance efficiency at South Ridge Recreation Centre and Medalta in the Historic Clay District
The City of Medicine Hat has completed new energy‑efficient lighting upgrades at two local facilities, supported through the Municipal Climate Change Action Centre’s (MCCAC) Community Energy Conservation program and funded by the Government of Alberta.
The latest round of work focused on replacing aging and high‑consumption lighting at Medalta Potteries and the South Ridge Recreation Centre (YMCA). With a contribution of $69,976 from the MCCAC, the City upgraded a combined 312 fixtures and retrofitted 408 fluorescent tubes with LED technology.
Based on the MCCAC’s lighting calculator, the improvements are expected to reduce lifetime GHG emissions by roughly 686 tonnes and generate an estimated $24,630 in annual utility savings. Read this article on their website.
Inclusive Employer Recognition Program
This year, the City of Medicine Hat and the Medicine Hat Local Immigration Partnership will recognize employers who are actively building inclusive workplaces and supporting a diverse workforce across Medicine Hat and Southeast Alberta. Participating employers will select practical inclusion activities that align with their business goals, many of which were suggested by local employers. Employers will receive formal recognition once they have implemented these activities.
- To learn more about the program: https://www.theinclusionhub.ca/inclusive-employer-recognition
- To register for the program: https://form.jotform.com/260355863697067
For questions, please contact sbamperineza@ccisab.ca or 403-360-2344.
Brooks-Newell News
Investment Opportunity!
With the future construction of a new school for Christ the Redeemer Catholic Schools, several investment opportunities are available.
This includes opening a daycare business, investing in a mechanics lab to train your potential future workforce, investing in a community theatre, and more! More Information | For inquiries, please email: AHolowka@redeemer.ab.ca
Chamber Presents to Brook Council
The Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce presented to Brooks Council on March 23rd, 2026. Included in the presentation was membership statistics and a look into our involvement in Brooks, alongside a look into our 2025 Annual Report.
You can watch the council meeting on Facebook here, with the Chamber’s presentation starting at 50:37 and ending at 1:24:26 with the Q&A.
Closing the Gap: Linking Youth to Employment
Ready to grow your team and connect with the next wave of local talent? Closing the Gap: Linking Youth to Employment is all about helping businesses like yours find motivated young workers, learn new hiring strategies, and tap into supports that make recruitment easier.
Fresh ideas for hiring and retention
Real conversations with local partners
Face-to-face time with youth candidates
If building your future workforce is on your radar, you’ll want to be in the room. April 29th | Register now for free!
Sip and Sample - A Taste of Shawarma County!
Get ready to treat your tastebuds! Join us on March 31 (TONIGHT) from 5 PM to 7 PM at Shawarma County for Sip & Sample, an evening designed to spark curiosity, bring the community together, and—most importantly—let you experience the bold, delicious flavours Shawarma County is known for.
Shawarma County believes the best way to win hearts is by winning tastebuds—once people try the food, they fall in love and come back for more. So come sip, sample, mingle, and experience the magic for yourself.
Advocacy in Action
Recap: Medicine Hat’s Inaugural Cultural Forum – Strengthening Culture, Community & Business
On Monday, March 23, the Chamber attended the City of Medicine Hat’s inaugural Cultural Forum, held at the Esplanade. The day brought together artists, cultural organizations, businesses, and community partners to explore how cultural development supports a vibrant, connected, and economically strong city.
Included in the day was an opening reflection and dance by the Indigenous collective Matriarch Movement, an overview of the City’s Arts, Heritage and Entertainment Plan, a community panel including our Communications Coordinator Morgan Johnson, and more.
Read about how the day went and why the Arts, Heritage & Entertainment Plan matters to business in our latest Advocacy Insights article.
Reducing interprovincial trade barriers
Alberta has introduced Bill 21: Interprovincial Trade Mutual Recognition Act, which aims to reduce red tape and enable mutual recognition of goods across provinces, improving market access and strengthening domestic supply chains. This aligns with Alberta Chambers of Commerce priorities to enhance interprovincial collaboration, regulatory alignment, and trade efficiency.
Learn more | Alberta’s Role in Enhancing Interprovincial Collaboration
Next Level Events
Save the Date: The Seeds of Change Rural Immigration Conference
Join sessions on May 27 & 28, 2026 to share best practices in newcomer attraction 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. Online registration here!
Free Webinars for the Week
Unlocking Opportunity: How AWE Supports Alberta Women Entrepreneurs | Virtual | April 1 at 12:15 PM
Futurpreneur’s Indigenous Innovation & Knowledge Exchange | Online | April 2 at 10:30 AM
Protecting Your Intellectual Property on Social Media | Online | April 2 at 12:00 PM
The Empowered Entrepreneur: Turning Risk Into Strategy | Virtual | April 2 at 2:00 PM
Money Mentors: Understanding Small Business Taxes
Attend a practical session with Money Mentors and CPA Stefanie Ricchio to learn how small business taxes work, including structures, deductions, GST/HST, and year-end planning. Part of the free F.R.E.S.H. series, this webinar helps entrepreneurs build confidence, minimize surprises, and make informed financial decisions.
Friday, April 10 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. | Online | Register Now
Healthcare Industry Roundtable
The healthcare space in Canada is full of potential, and navigating it takes the right knowledge and the right people in your corner. Our next Industry Roundtable is a focused 2-hour session bringing together founders and experts to dig into growth strategies, regulatory guidance, and what scaling a healthcare solution actually looks like.
April 9th | Spots are limited! Register
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 Parallèle Alberta, The Apex Forge Corp, and Guac Mexi Grill 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!
Riipen’s FuturePath
Riipen’s FuturePath program helps Alberta employers move real business projects forward by connecting them with trained, project-ready postsecondary students. Through a government-supported, cost-shared model, employers can engage student talent on structured, short-term projects without taking on the burden of full recruitment or onboarding. Riipen manages the coordination, matching, and administration, making the process simple and efficient for your team. It’s a practical way to advance business priorities, increase capacity, and build meaningful connections with Alberta’s emerging workforce.
“Fired Up!”: Medalta Celebrates 40 Years with Community Clay Festival
Medalta in the Historic Clay District invites the community to get “Fired Up!” on Saturday, May 2, 2026, as part of its 40th anniversary celebrations. This full-day, family-friendly event runs from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM at 713 Medalta Ave SE and is free for all ages.
“Fired Up!” is part of Medalta’s “Legacy Series,” marking 40 years of The Friends of Medalta Society (FOMS) and celebrating the organization’s role in preserving and advancing Medicine Hat’s rich clay heritage.
Visitors can explore a vibrant mix of interactive experiences, hands-on activities, and behind-the-scenes access across Medalta’s historic site, including:
- Education Showcase featuring interactive clay activities, a sensory station, and a mini pop-up museum experience
- Roaming Tours in the Museum, offering flexible, drop-in interpretive experiences throughout the site
- Live Demonstrations showcasing clay production techniques in action
- Community Clay Project, a large-scale outdoor sculpture led by the Medalta International Artists in Residence (MIAIR) program
- Tours of the Shaw Centre for Contemporary Ceramics, highlighting contemporary ceramic art
- Selfie Station with a creative kiln-side photo installation
- Giant Yard Games, sponsored by Grand Rental Station
A paid bar will also be available on site.
“Fired Up!” reflects Medalta’s ongoing commitment to community engagement, education, and artistic innovation, bringing together the past, present, and future through clay.
The Notables: 2026 AFSC Women in Ag Award winners. (Photo credit Carbon Life Media Inc.)
Congratulations to Beth Cash: One of the 2026 Women in Ag Award winners
Across Alberta, women in agriculture are reshaping the industry through innovation, mentorship, community leadership and unwavering resilience. This year’s AFSC Women in Ag Award recipients are translating expertise into real-world results, developing the next generation of ag leadership, building networks and bolstering rural communities. Beth Cash was recognized as one of the 2026 recipients for her role as a Promoter in the Industry.
Beth Cash’s work has ensured women’s voices are recognized in southeastern Alberta. Beth co-operates the family ranch while she serves as the economic development officer for Cypress County. In this role, she ensures that agriculture is recognized not only as a production industry but also as a network of family businesses, women entrepreneurs and community builders.
She works to integrate agricultural priorities into local economic strategies, connecting producers, small businesses and municipal leadership. Her most significant initiative is the Ag Connections Conference, launched in 2023 as a one-day professional development event for producers and businesses in southeastern Alberta. The first year the goal was to have 100 attendees. By its second year, more than 450 participants attended.
Her leadership extends beyond her local community, serving on the Economic Developers Alberta board and the Palliser Economic Partnership agriculture board. Beth has represented rural Alberta on a trade mission to Japan, exploring agri-food export opportunities and working to connect local producers to international markets. Learn more about Beth and the other 2026 recipients
Elavon March & April Promotion
During March and April, any new member who signs up through our Chamber Referral Program will receive a $150 statement credit. This exclusive offer is available for a limited time! How Members Can Participate:
- Submit a web inquiry through the Elavon Chamber landing page: https://join.paymentstart.com/cachamber
- A dedicated Elavon sales representative will contact them within 24–48 hours.
- Complete the sign-up process by April 30, 2026 to qualify for the $150 statement credit. Click the link for full details.
Fill Up On Funding
Federal Trade Diversification Corridors Fund: applications open
The federal Trade Diversification Corridors Fund aims to build and improve Canada’s trade infrastructure—roads, rail, airports, ports, and more—to reduce congestion, strengthen regional connections, and expand access to global markets. Applications are open across three streams: Core Trade Corridors (invitation-based), Connectivity Solutions (targeted call), and Regional Growth (open call).
Alberta Youth Incentive
The Alberta Youth Employment Incentive makes it easier – and more rewarding – for employers to bring young talent into their business. Qualified employers can receive up to $7,500 to hire Albertans aged 15 to 24, helping you fill workforce needs today while investing in the skilled workforce of tomorrow. Learn more here.
BDC Technology Equipment Loan
BDC's technology loan lets you match your payments to your cash flow cycle, so you can preserve your everyday cash while investing in growth. A tech equipment loan that covers most tech solutions with a fast, easy process and flexible terms.
Crossword Puzzle
Crossword Puzzle Answers
Did you figure it out? Here are the answers for the March 24th 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
Events — APEX | Regional Innovation Network of SE AB
Non-profit learning webinars | Alberta.ca
April 6 | Rock My Business Idea
April 6 | Launch or Grow Your Dream Business
April 7 | Rock My Business Plan
April 7 | Black Entrepreneur Startup Program - DIY Marketing: Build Your Brand’s Foundation
April 8 | Rock My Cash Flow
April 15 -17 | EDA Xperience 2026: Fresh Ideas, Bold Futures
Useful Links
Follow us on social media for up-to-the-minute updates
The Voice: March 31st, 2026
Meet Samuel, Quarterly Alberta Job Vacancy Report, New Councillor Accountability Framework, Alberta Positioned to Lead in Lithium Production, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Meet Samuel, our new Member Relations Coordinator! Meet Samuel (or Sam) Tawiah, the Chamber’s new Member Relations Coordinator! Samuel is originally from Ghana and pursued…
Read More The Voice: March 24th, 2026
CCC Bank of Canada Rates, 5 Bills to keep an eye on, Inclusive Workplaces Experience Big Business Benefits, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Canadian Chamber of Commerce: Bank of Canada Rates “February is the dip before the spike. There are some encouraging details in the inflation data, with…
Read More The Voice: March 17th, 2026
Canada and Alberta Reach Environmental Assessment Agreement, Canada Extends Work-Sharing Program, Water Amendment Act Updates, Ministry of Transportation and Economic Corridors’ Three-Year Capital Plan, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Request for Proposals – Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce The Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce has recently released multiple…
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