The Voice: May 26th, 2026
Alberta Rural Health Week, Changes to Provincial Cabinet, Canadian Small Business tax Deadlines, and Canada's 2026-2028 Levels Plan, and more all in this week's edition of The Voice.
Business News
Alberta Rural Health Week 2026 celebrates the people bringing care closer to home
Alberta Rural Health Week (ARHW) returns May 25 to 29, 2026, celebrating the healthcare professionals who bring care closer to home for rural and remote communities across the province. Nearly one in five Albertans live in rural and remote areas. Every day, healthcare teams across these communities provide essential care; bridging distance, building strong relationships, and supporting patients where they live.
Join the conversation online using #ABRuralHealthWeek or visit RHPAP.ca/ARHW to download the ARHW Toolkit.
2026 Tax deadlines for Canadian businesses and self-employed individuals
This fact sheet highlights the key 2026 tax deadlines for Canadian businesses and self-employed individuals. It’s designed to help you stay organized and manage your tax obligations with ease. Visit the site to learn more about the due dates and other information.
Canada Carbon Rebate for Small Businesses
The Canada Carbon Rebate for Small Businesses is a refundable tax credit announced in Budget 2024 to return a portion of the federal fuel charge proceeds collected between 2019-2020 and 2024-2025 directly to eligible Canadian-controlled private corporations (CCPCs).
You do not need to apply for this rebate. If you are eligible, you will automatically receive the payment. Learn more about who's eligible and other information.
Changes to Provincial Cabinet
Premier Danielle Smith made changes to her cabinet to include both experienced and newly appointed ministers who will deliver on the priorities that matter most to Albertans, including growing the economy, strengthening front-line services, keeping communities safe and supporting Alberta families. Members taking on new roles include:
- Minister of Affordability and Utilities, RJ Sigurdson
- Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, Tara Sawyer
- Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services, Nathan Neudorf
- Minister of Hospital and Surgical Health Services, Adriana LaGrange
- Minister of Primary and Preventative Health Services, Justin Wright
- President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance, Jason Nixon
Additionally, Brandon Lunty will serve as the chief government whip. Scott Cyr, MLA for Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul will serve as the parliamentary secretary for transportation and strategic development.
The Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce is pleased to congratulate our local Cypress-Medicine Hat MLA Justin Wright on his appointment as Minister of Primary and Preventative Health Services. This appointment marks a significant milestone for both MLA Wright and Southeast Alberta. Having a local representative serve in a key health portfolio ensures that the unique needs of rural and mid-sized communities are well understood and brought forward in provincial decision-making.
Minister Wright steps into this role with previous positions including Chief Government Whip for the United Conservative Caucus; Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Health (South); Alberta’s Military Liaison.
The Ministry of Primary and Preventative Health Services plays a central role in Alberta’s evolving healthcare system, with a focus on improving access to front-line care and ensuring earlier intervention and prevention.
In public remarks following his appointment, Minister Wright emphasized the importance of listening to patients and frontline providers, while focusing on keeping care close to home and improving access to primary care services. [medicinehatnews.com]
These priorities are especially important for communities across southern Alberta, where timely access to care, workforce availability and service delivery remain ongoing challenges.
Canada’s 2026–2028 Levels Plan
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is inviting feedback from organizations and the public to help support the development of Canada’s next Immigration Levels Plan, as well as the continued improvement of its policies, programs and services.
Submit your responses by June 14, 2026.
Medicine Hat-Cypress News
Nominations open for new Arts and Culture Legacy Award
The inaugural nomination period is now open for the City of Medicine Hat’s newly-created Arts and Culture Legacy Award. Nominations will be accepted until July 15 annually.
City of Medicine Hat launches public survey on long-term water strategy
The City of Medicine Hat is requesting resident feedback to learn how community members view water-related challenges and priorities. The City is developing a long-term Water Management and Adaptation Strategy (WMAS) to help ensure Medicine Hat’s water resource is managed to be reliable and resilient into the future.
Read this article on their website.
Read the Chamber's Advocacy Article on what Businesses Need to Know.
Council Highlights from May 19, 2026
The May 19 City Council meeting included receiving an update on the Community Wellbeing Plan, Momentum, a 10-year strategy developed with community partners. Council also approved a $21.55 million investment to replace aging substations, ensuring continued reliability of the city’s electric system. A rezoning application for 21 Ranchlands Boulevard NE was approved following a public hearing, and first reading was given to amendments to Tax Exemption bylaws.
These bylaw changes, along with a proposed Development and Expansion Grant program, will return to Council for further consideration on June 1. Read this article on their website.
Brooks-Newell News
2026 Property Assessment & Tax Notices Mailout
If you do not receive your Property Assessment & Tax Notice by May 31, please contact the County of Newell to obtain a copy.
County Council continues to offer a discount on the current municipal portion of your taxes, if paid in full by 4:30 pm on June 15, 2026. The Tax Penalties & Incentive Bylaw (2008-21) provides for:
- a discount of 2.5% applied to all current municipal taxes paid by June 15th
- a penalty of 8% applied to current year taxes outstanding as of November 15th
- a penalty of 12% applied to all taxes in arrears as of March 1st of each year
Please note: To ensure your payment is applied to the correct account, include the bottom return portion of the Tax Notice referencing the Tax Roll that is being paid with your payment.
Payment options can be found here > https://countyofnewell.ab.ca/making-payments (post-dated cheques payable to the County of Newell are acceptable provided they are dated and received prior to June 15th). If you have questions please send an email to finance@newellmail.ca, or call 403-362-3266.
RFP: Construction of a Municipal Microgeneration Solar PV System
The County of Newell is soliciting proposals from qualified contractors for the design, supply, and installation of a grid-connected solar photovoltaic (PV) system at the County of Newell Administration and Shop facility. This project aims to reduce operational costs, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and align with the Municipal Climate Change Action Centre (MCCAC) funding program requirements.
Read the Request and find instructions on how to submit here: Tenders, Quotations & Request for Proposals - Newell County, AB
RFP: Brooks Airport Lighting Upgrade Tender
The main items of Work of this Contract include the following:
1 - Demolish existing edge lighting for Runway 12/30, Taxiway, and apron.
2 - Install new edge lighting and underground cabling for Runway 12/30, Taxiway, and apron.
3 - Replace existing wind direction indicator and beacon.
4 - Replace existing CCR and ARCAL.
The Site of the Work of this Contract is located in Newell County. View this RFP on their website.
Local Unlocked at Sweet Tooth
Join us for Local Unlocked at Sweet Tooth where we will bring you a family‑friendly evening where you’ll get an inside look at how Sweet Tooth creates their handmade candy right here in Brooks!
Watch hard candy being made and even try a hands‑on step if you’d like. It’s a great experience for all ages. To make the evening even more special, participants will enjoy a private shopping experience after the demonstration, complete with a 10% discount on all in‑store‑made products.
June 1st from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM |Â Register Here
Advocacy in Action
Outreach to newly appointed Minister of Agriculture
The Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce will be reaching out to newly appointed Minister of Agriculture, the Honourable Tara Sawyer, as this portfolio plays a vital role in shaping the economic strength and long-term sustainability of our province, particularly here in Southeast Alberta.
Agriculture is deeply connected to our communities, businesses, and regional identity.
The Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce will ensure it highlight several key priorities that are of importance to our members and the broader agriculture and agri-food sector:
- Strengthening Interprovincial Trade: Reducing barriers to interprovincial trade remains a top priority. Differences in regulations continue to limit the movement of agricultural products, increase costs, and restrict market access. Advancing greater alignment between provinces will support producers, strengthen supply chains, and enhance Canada’s overall competitiveness. This includes potential bilateral opportunities for meat processing and safety fitness certifications that are causing challenges, particularly in border communities.
- Risk Mitigation, Business Risk Management, and Trade Stability: With ongoing uncertainty related to tariffs, global trade pressures, and climate variability, there is a growing need for strong, responsive risk management solutions. We encourage continued advancement and modernization of Business Risk Management programs to ensure they are accessible, predictable, and reflective of current realities facing producers and agri-businesses. Clear communication and timely support will be critical in helping businesses plan, invest, and adapt with confidence.
- Engagement on the Next Agricultural Policy Framework: As conversations advance on the next federal-provincial-territorial agricultural policy framework, it will be critical to ensure Alberta’s producers and agri-businesses are well represented. We encourage continued engagement with the federal government and industry stakeholders to advocate for a framework that strengthens competitiveness, supports innovation, and reflects the realities of regions across Alberta.
- Water Management and Sustainability: Water availability remains a critical issue for our region, particularly because the South Saskatchewan River basin is a closed basin. Continued investment in irrigation infrastructure, efficient water use strategies, and long-term planning will be essential to ensuring the sustainability and growth of agriculture in Southeast Alberta.
- Agriculture Education and Workforce Development: Ensuring adequate resources and support for agriculture education will support building a reliable and skilled workforce in addition to ongoing efforts to improve labour mobility, training, and attraction strategies to support both primary agriculture and value-added agri-food businesses.
We have a long-standing positive working relationship with the Ministry of Agriculture, and we remain committed to working alongside the Ministry to ensure that the voices of businesses in Southeast Alberta are heard and reflected in provincial decision-making.
Next Level Events
Export Curious? How the Trade Accelerator Program Helps Alberta Companies Scale Globally
Are you an Alberta-based business looking to expand beyond Canada or curious about exploring new international markets—but not sure where to start?
Join the Trade Accelerator Program and Medicine Hat Economic Development for an upcoming Trade Accelerator Program (TAP) information webinar, designed to introduce growth-stage companies to one of Canada’s leading export development programs. This session will walk you through how TAP equips businesses with the tools, expert guidance, and practical export planning needed to confidently pursue global growth.
Thursday, June 4th | 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM | More info & registration here
Ribbon Cuttings Galore!
Habitat for Humanity Groundbreaking Ceremony
5242 Southlands Drive SE, Medicine Hat AB | Wednesday, May 27th at 11:00 AM
SoftMoc Ribbon Cutting
Medicine Hat Mall, Medicine Hat AB| Thursday, May 28th at 10:00 AM
OTR Meats Grand Opening
OTR Meats, Brooks AB | Thursday, May 28th at 12:00 PM
Steaming Cup Grand Re-Opening
Steaming Cup, Brooks AB | Thursday, June 4th at 10:00 AM
Western Financial Customer Appreciation Event
Western Financial Group Downtown, Medicine Hat AB | Thursday, June 4th at 11:00 AM
Ready to Grow? Build a Side Hustle That Can Scale
Explore what it takes to move from a passion project to a scalable business learn how to build systems that support growth, and discover how to avoid burnout while managing multiple priorities.
Join us on Thursday, May 28 at 12 p.m. for a webinar with Joshua Littlejohn, Founder & CEO of Norgress, for practical guidance and actionable steps to help you stop guessing and start growing.
Last Chance to Apply: Join a Community of Entrepreneurs
Applications for the June Peerpreneur cohorts are closing soon, with only one week left to apply. Join this free 4-week virtual program for small business owners to connect with like-minded individuals to discuss challenges, exchange ideas, and gain practical insights through facilitated group sessions.
Strengthen your confidence as an entrepreneur, apply now to secure your spot. Apply now.
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 BMO Bank of Montreal, Quesada Burritos and Tacos, and The Evangelical Free Church of Medicine Hat 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!
BDC LAUNCHES LIFT TO HELP SMES ADOPT AI AND PRODUCTIVITY-BOOSTING TECHNOLOGIES
LIFT (Lead with Innovation and Focus on Technology) is a new, $500 million program designed to help more than 1,000 Canadian SMEs adopt artificial intelligence and other productivity-enhancing technologies.
Despite growing awareness of AI’s potential, BDC data shows that only 30% of Canadian SMEs used AI in 2025—yet those businesses were 24% more productive than non‑users. LIFT was created to help close this gap by offering a practical, accessible path to adoption. LIFT removes key barriers that often prevent businesses from getting started:
- Provides flexible financing to support investments in AI, digital tools, advanced equipment, automation, robotics and data infrastructure, and other productivity solutions
- Provides business owners with BDC Advisory Services expertise to help identify Canadian AI and technology suppliers for integration and implementation
- Requires no technical expertise, making it suitable for entrepreneurs who understand the importance of AI but need hands-on guidance to act
Eligible businesses can access loans ranging from $25,000 to $5 million, with flexible terms including preferential rates.
More information | Additionally, read BDC’s 5 ways to improve efficiency in the age of AI article here.
ATB Fraud Protection for Business
As a business owner, you know how important it is to protect your business from costly scams and cybercrime. But, with fraud driven by AI becoming increasingly sophisticated, it can be challenging to keep up.
Your team at Regional Markets is here to support you with our Fraud Protection for Business Webinar. On Thursday, June 25, 12-12:30pm MDT, Aisha Kitchlew-Hydrie, ATB’s Senior Manager, Fraud and Cybercrime, will take you through the latest threats and the actions you need to take to stay one step ahead. Get the inside track on AI-driven deception.
Fill Up On Funding
A new way to support Alberta’s non-profits
Following stakeholder engagement, research and cross-jurisdictional analysis, Alberta’s government has updated the Community Initiatives Program (CIP) Operating grant to build a stronger, more sustainable non-profit sector. Reintroduced as the CIP, Organizational Development and Collaboration (ODC) grant, changes to the program ensure the funding framework is responsive to the evolving needs of organizations. Learn more here.
The CIP Organizational Development and Collaboration (ODC) Grant has 2 categories:
- Individual Organizations Grant
- Collaboratives Grant.
2026 Application Deadlines: June 15th and October 15th | Apply Here
Small Business Loans: What to Know Before Applying
Getting a business loan can feel overwhelming, but the right preparation can make the process easier. Learn about common financing options in Alberta, what lenders typically look for, and how to organize your numbers, documents, and funding requests before applying. Read more and connect with our team for free one-on-one support today.
Canada-Alberta Workforce Resilience Initiative
The Canada-Alberta Workforce Resilience Initiative provides funding to employers, industry associations and communities in sectors operating in a shifting global trade environment through two streams:
- Workforce Planning – supports sectors and communities to develop strategies for workforce transitions and transformation
- Employer-led Training – supports employers and industry associations sectors operating in shifting global trade environment to train employed workers to prevent layoffs.
Funding for this program is provided in part by the Government of Canada through the Canada-Alberta Workforce Tariff Response.
Employer Led Deadline: September 30, 2026 | Workforce Planning Grant: Now Open
Crossword Puzzle
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Other News
Alberta Labour Force Highlights
Alberta Indigenous Labour Force Highlights
Youth employment & skills development
Telling Alberta’s energy story on the global stage
Strengthening Alberta’s ag trade ties in China
Tourism thriving in Alberta; more growth expected
New Website for Fall’s Provincial Referendum
State of the Canadian Space Sector Report 2025: Strength and Growth of Canada’s Space Economy
Other Resources
Other Events
Non-profit learning webinars | Alberta.ca
June 1-4 | Fundraising for Founders
June 3 | IDEAS Webinars - Innovation in Advanced Manufacturing
June 11 | Brooks Newell Data Centre Forum
June 11 | Startup Women - Understanding the Funding Landscape in Canada
June 11 | Understanding the Funding Landscape in Canada
June 16 | Strategic Planning For Your Co-op's Future
June 16 | Calgary | Startup Global Pop-Up Pitch Competition
June 23 | Building Resilient Supply Chains
Useful Links
Follow us on social media for up-to-the-minute updates
The Voice: May 26th, 2026
Alberta Rural Health Week, Changes to Provincial Cabinet, Canadian Small Business tax Deadlines, and Canada’s 2026-2028 Levels Plan, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Alberta Rural Health Week 2026 celebrates the people bringing care closer to home Alberta Rural Health Week (ARHW) returns May 25 to 29, 2026, celebrating…
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Canada-US Trade Talk Continues, Building Trades Paths for Indigenous Youth, Government of Canada Announces New Business Development Bank of Canada Program, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News CCC: Canada-U.S. Trade Talks Continue as Tariff Pressures and Policy Signals Evolve Canada-U.S. engagement on tariffs and the upcoming CUSMA review continues,…
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