The Voice: June 30th, 2026
Canada Day 2026, Labour Market Information, ERA Receives Additional $19.4 Million to Accelerate Methane Reduction Across Alberta, Minister's Council on Infrastructure Financing, Making or Trading Food in Canada, and more all in this week's edition of The Voice.
Business News
Canada Day 2026
Wednesday, July 1st is Canada Day! The Chamber of Commerce office will be closed for the day and we encourage you to celebrate with your community at one of the many festivities going on:
Medicine Hat has a two-day festival going on June 30th and July 1st! The City is offering transit service from 8:15 a.m. to 7:15 p.m. on July 1 as part of their statutory holiday transit service pilot project.
Redcliff has a free pancake breakfast and live music Wednesday morning!
Brooks is hosting a full day of live entertainment and community spirit at the JBS Canada Centre on July 1st starting at noon.
Village of Rosemary marks its 75th Anniversary Canada Day Celebration with a full day of community pride and classic small-town charm!
Bassano is bringing residents and visitors together for a festive fundraiser supporting future pool programming and special events!
GOVERNMENT OF ALBERTA: REGIONAL EMPLOYER SUPPORTS & LABOUR MARKET INFORMATION
Did you know?
Employment in the province increased by 13,900 month-over-month in May 2026, a third consecutive monthly gain. Full-time employment rebounded by +25,700 month-over-month in May 2026, offsetting a pullback in part-time employment (-11,800 month-over-month).
Provincial Labour Market Information:
The provincial unemployment rate for May 2026 decreased by 0.4% to 6.6%, in line with the national rate of 6.6% and a 0.8% decrease from May 2025.
Alberta’s employment reached 2,670,500, reflecting an increase of 13,900 (+0.5%) from the previous month and a rise of 104,400 (+4.1%) compared to May 2025.
Employment losses were highest in wholesale and retail trade (-8,500), manufacturing (-6,200) and public administration (-3,300). Alberta’s average hourly wage for May 2026 increased by 4.8% to $38.53 compared to last year.
More information:
- May 2026 Labour Market Notes
- May 2026 Hiring Demand Bulletin
- June 2026 Regional Employer Supports & Employer Resources
ERA RECEIVES ADDITIONAL $19.4 MILLION TO ACCELERATE METHANE REDUCTION ACROSS ALBERTA
Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA) is receiving an additional $19.4 million to expand the reach and impact of its Methane Reduction Deployment Program, accelerating the uptake of technologies that cut methane emissions across Alberta’s oil and gas sector.
The new funding, provided by the Government of Canada through the Low Carbon Economy Leadership Fund (LCELF) in partnership with the Government of Alberta, builds on the province’s investment of $22.4 million last fall through the Technology Innovation and Emissions Reduction (TIER) fund. Grant Hunter, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas, made the announcement on June 10, 2026, at the Global Energy Show in Calgary.
MINISTER’S COUNCIL ON INFRASTRUCTURE FINANCING
Alberta’s Government is launching a minister’s council to explore new ways for municipalities to finance critical infrastructure needed to support growing communities. The council will bring together municipal leaders and industry representatives to examine innovative approaches to infrastructure funding and identify tools that can help communities maintain and expand core services.
The council, in collaboration with BILD Alberta’s working group on alternative infrastructure financing, will explore ways to close the municipal infrastructure gap and enhance municipalities’ ability to invest in housing and critical infrastructure through innovative financing tools and without increasing the tax burden on Albertans.
Making or Trading Food in Canada?
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has launched a new webpage to help food businesses navigate federal regulatory requirements . Making or trading food in Canada? There are concierge services to help small and medium-sized businesses navigate the licensing process.
Need support to sell your food across provincial borders? There are concierges service for small and medium-sized businesses.
Medicine Hat-Cypress News
Image Credit: Jett Schwaier/CHAT News
CONSTRUCTION UNDERWAY ON YUILL SCHOOL OF AGRICULTURE TO TRAIN FUTURE WORKFORCE
Construction is underway for the Yuill School of Agriculture outside Medicine Hat and Dunmore, marking a major milestone for a project to help address future labour shortages in agriculture while creating new career pathways for students across southeastern Alberta.
Prairie Rose Public Schools officials and contractors gathered on Tuesday, June 23, at the construction site to provide an update on the project, where foundation work began a week prior. Nathan Zilinski, project manager with GVN Structures, said contractors have made strong progress despite recent rainfall and expect to continue that progress in the coming months.
Now Recruiting: Subdivision and Development Appeal Board
Looking for a meaningful way to get involved in your community? The City of Medicine Hat is currently seeking residents to serve on the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board (SDAB) and is accepting applications until July 24.
SDAB members play an important role in local decision‑making by hearing appeals related to development decisions and property standards. As an independent, quasi‑judicial board established under Alberta’s Municipal Government Act, the SDAB helps ensure decisions are fair, balanced, and rooted in the public interest.
If you’re a Medicine Hat resident who’s interested in civic engagement, community building, or learning more about land use and development, this is a rewarding opportunity to lend your perspective and make a real impact. Learn more and apply: https://bit.ly/48HhQBf
Brooks-Newell News
JUNE 22 | COUNCIL HIGHLIGHTS
Policy F-002-030(B) – Business Continuity Plan
Council approved updates to the Business Continuity Plan Policy. The Policy outlines how City services are prioritized during disruptions, categorizing them as essential, necessary, or desired. Updates include revised wording and the addition of Inclusion as a desired service.
Bylaw 26/032 – Access to Information Bylaw
Council gave three readings and adopted Bylaw 26/032. The Bylaw reflects new provincial legislation that separates access to information and privacy requirements, and designates the Chief Administrative Officer as the head responsible for administering these processes.
Advocacy in Action
ALBERTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RELEASES THEIR PROVINCIAL SURVEY RESULTS: BUSINESS CONFIDENCE IN ALBERTA DECLINES AS UNCERTAINTY GROWS
The Alberta Chambers of Commerce (ACC) released findings from its “Business and Public Attitudes to Key Policy Issues” research, showing that federal policy impacts and separation uncertainty are the top issues facing the province for Alberta businesses. Federal policy impacts were identified as the top issue (20%) for the second year, with respondents writing in separation (15%) as the second most pressing issue.
The research, conducted between May 22 and June 17, 2026, collected insights from more than 680 business respondents. In addition, 800 members of the Alberta public shared their perspectives between June 6 and June 14, 2026. This is the eight annual survey in this research series focusing on economic and fiscal issues.
CANADIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: AD HOC WORKING GROUP ON CANADIAN FORCED LABOUR
The Canadian Chamber is establishing an ad hoc Working Group on Canadian Forced Labour to support the Canadian business community’s response to addressing the risk of forced labour in Canadian supply chains.
The Working Group will serve as a forum for experienced and directly impacted members to identify practical challenges, share expertise and provide real-world perspectives that will inform the Canadian Chamber’s technical response on forced labour to the Canadian government and the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR).
- Gather member experience and expertise on forced labour regulations, reporting obligations and enforcement practices.
- Identify practical challenges associated with supply chain mapping, due diligence, compliance and verification.
- Assess the potential impacts of proposed U.S. and Canadian policy measures on businesses operating across integrated North American supply chains.
- Support the development of Canadian Chamber submissions, advocacy positions and engagement strategies related to forced labour and supply chain integrity.
GOVERNMENT OF ALBERTA SEEKS FEEDBACK ON ITS RENEWABLE FUELS STANDARD
The Government of Alberta is gathering feedback from Renewable Fuels Standard stakeholders to ensure the standard remains effective and relevant to current technologies, markets and fuel use.
Reviewing the standard could stimulate new investment and support increased uptake of low-carbon fuel feedstocks and low-carbon fuels in Alberta’s transportation sector.
Stakeholders are invited to share feedback on:
- minimum blend rates and emission reduction requirements
- expansion of the scope to include alternative (non-renewable) feedstocks and low-carbon fuels such as co-processed fuels
- potentially providing greater support for the uptake of sustainable aviation fuel
Next Level Events
GOA WORKFORCE DATA: BUILDING THE FUTURE OUTDOOR WORKFORCE
The Outdoor Council of Canada has launched a Workforce Data Project in Alberta to fill critical gaps in labour market information for the outdoor sector. Join the virtual webinar to hear the latest findings.
Date & Time: July 22 at 1pm MT | Register here
WOMEN IN CREATIVE INDUSTRIES | STARTUP WOMEN 2026
Startup Canada facilitates industry-specific roundtables every other month between February and November. Hosted by Amanda Logan, Programs Officer at Startup Canada, these sessions will feature expert talks from late-stage founders, a panel discussion with support organizations within the industry and networking breakout rooms with attendees and speakers. This close-door, virtual meetup will give women-identifying entrepreneurs all across Canada a sense of community and support.
Wednesday, July 22 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM MDT | Register Here
Fraud Prevention for Business Webinar recording available now.
Whether you joined live, or couldn't make it, you can now watch the ATB Fraud Prevention Webinar on YouTube. To strengthen your fraud prevention, and understand the critical steps you need to take if fraud happens to you, ATB also has these helpful resources:
- Fraud First Aid Kit
- Cyber Security Toolkit
- Cyber resilience overview is also a must-read for protecting your business
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
Chamber Members
Check out all the Chamber Members on our business directory!
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 new member posts moving forward!
El Super Taco Receives Sello MX Certification!
El Super Taco has officially earned the Sello MX Certification, a recognition awarded by the Government of Mexico to businesses that authentically represent Mexican culture and cuisine abroad.
This recognition reflects commitment to serving authentic Mexican food and sharing the traditions of Mexico with the community. Congratualtions to El Super Taco! Read this news in Member News.
Medicine Hat's 2026 Canada Day Festival
The fun-filled Canada Day festival is back for June 30th and July 1st this year! Food trucks, performances, family-friendly activities, and local vendors will all be waiting for you in Kin Coulee Park.
June 30th stop by for Glow Up the Globe from 8:30pm-11pm followed by a laser show and DJ until 1am! July 1st grab a pancake breakfast in-between 9am-11am then spend a day in the park before enjoying the fireworks at 11pm.
Want to get involved? Learn more about the volunteer and sponsorship opportunities available on their website at https://canadadaymedicinehat.ca/
Heart of the Horse Happening August 21st-23rd, 2026
Get ready for three unforgettable days celebrating the extraordinary partnership between horse and rider at Heart of the Horse — a world-class equine event that brings together top talent, thrilling competition, education, and community.
Come watch the exciting Colt Starting Competition, where elite trainers demonstrate the art of developing trust, confidence, and skill in young horses. Watch these colts potential transform into partnership right before your eyes.
Canada’s finest competitors will also showcase their versatility and horsemanship in Canada’s Top Ranch Horse Competition, highlighting the athleticism and real-world abilities of the working ranch horse. The action continues with the high-energy Ranch Scramble, a fast-paced crowd favorite that blends teamwork, strategy, and skill.
Beyond the arena, enjoy engaging demonstrations from respected horsemen and women, offering valuable insight into training, ranch work, and equine care. Explore the vibrant Trade Show, featuring western wear, tack, equine products, artisan goods, and unique finds for horse lovers of all kinds.
Don’t miss the highlight of the weekend — “An Evening with Horses”, a spectacular NightShow filled with inspiring performances under the lights.
Whether you’re a lifelong equestrian or simply looking for an exciting summer event, there’s something for everyone at Heart of the Horse. For tickets and more information, visit www.theheartofthehorse.ca | Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @theheartofthe.horse | We hope to see you there! 🐎
Fill Up On Funding
Learn about the financing options available through WeBC!
WeBC has a Business Loan Program, and are the BC Loan Fund Partner of the WEOC National Loan Program for women and non-binary entrepreneurs.
If you would like to access these programs to start, expand or purchase a business you need to participate in one of the free Zoom info sessions about the loan programs. During this session, the facilitator will:
- Review our lending criteria for each program
- Answer your questions
- Advise you on how to apply
- Provide you with a resource package
An Advisor will work with you to determine if you are eligible for a loan. | Tuesday, July 7, 2026 – 1PM MST
Build Communities Strong Fund (BCSF) – Local Impact Stream in the Prairie provinces
Funding opportunity for shovel-ready infrastructure that supports economic growth, business development, or workforce attraction. All projects must be completed by and available for public use by March 31, 2030.
Accepting submissions until July 17, 2026, 12:00 pm MDT
Build Communities Strong Fund Direct Delivery stream
The Build Communities Strong Fund is investing in a wide range of infrastructure projects that support economic prosperity, housing, sport, education, health, transit, and climate adaptation.
It provides $51 billion over 10 years, starting in 2026-27, and $3 billion per year ongoing, to support new and renewed public infrastructure. The online portal is now open for project applications that are shovel-ready for 2026.
NEW STEEL AND ALUMINIUM INDUSTRIES SUPPORT PROGRAM
BDC has been mandated to implement a $1 billion financing program to support companies in the steel and aluminium industries impacted by tariffs. The program provides liquidity to help businesses maintain operations while navigating tariff-driven disruptions. Eligible companies can access $1 million to $50 million in financing for temporary liquidity needs—supporting job retention, operational continuity, and adaptation.
Support is targeted to Canadian businesses in the steel, aluminium or copper value chain that have been materially impacted by U.S. tariffs and that were viable prior to the tariff measures. Technical eligibility parameters include:
- Canadian-based and headquartered commercial entities;
- Material exposure to steel, aluminium or copper tariffs;
- Minimum revenue thresholds of $5M annually.
The loans are intended to fund operational cash-flow needs (working capital), including regularly scheduled monthly debt or lease payments. Learn more
Ag For Life Agriculture Labour Task Force Grant Program
To support processors and producers, Alberta, in partnership with the federal government, is providing funding to Agriculture for Life to help companies recruit, hire and retain workers in the agriculture and agri-food industry.
Crossword Puzzle
Crossword Puzzle Answers
Did you figure it out? Here are the answers for the June 23d 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: June 30th, 2026
Canada Day 2026, Labour Market Information, ERA Receives Additional $19.4 Million to Accelerate Methane Reduction Across Alberta, Minister’s Council on Infrastructure Financing, Making or Trading Food in Canada, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Canada Day 2026 Wednesday, July 1st is Canada Day! The Chamber of Commerce office will…
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