The Voice: July 14th, 2026
World Youth Skills Day, Elections Alberta Identifies "Spoof" list of Electors and Website with Fake Data, Federal Investment Supports Growth and Market Access for Canada's Beef Sector, Doubling of Compliance Monetary Penalties Under Temporary Foreign Worker Program, Alberta's AI Advantage and more all in this week's edition of The Voice.
Business News
July 15th is World Youth Skills Day
On July 15, we recognize World Youth Skills Day — a day to support young workers as they build technical, vocational and digital skills for employment and entrepreneurship.
Health and safety plays a big role in the workplace, and employers can find useful resources to help create healthy, safe and productive work environments for young workers. For more information, see the OHS Resource Portal Young workers’ section.
Work Integrated Learning (WIL) programs are catalysts for growth, igniting success for students and businesses alike. Learn about opportunities and resources in our region.
ELECTIONS ALBERTA IDENTIFIES “SPOOF” LIST OF ELECTORS WEBSITE WITH FAKE DATA
Elections Alberta recently identified a website that appears to be attempting to represent itself as Elections Alberta. The URL, electionsab.ca, appears designed to mislead by mimicking the legitimate website’s URL, elections.ab.ca, and exploit concerns about the recent unauthorized use of the List of Electors. This site produces a list of fictitious names, addresses, phone numbers, and fictitious “elector ID” numbers. The data generated is completely fake and is not derived from the List of Electors.
Disinformation activities of this nature were not included in the newly created “Deepfake” provisions in the Election Finances and Contributions Disclosure Act, and the Elections Alberta Office does not have the legislative authority or jurisdiction to act or investigate this site. For these reasons, Chief Electoral Officer, Gordon McClure, has contacted the appropriate enforcement and cyber security agencies and made them aware of the existence of this website and is also taking steps to attempt to have this website taken down.
Albertans are encouraged, if they come across similar activity on the internet or have questions about the legitimacy of any information purported to be coming from Elections Alberta, to contact Elections Alberta at 780.427.7191 or info@elections.ab.ca to seek confirmation and clarity.
FEDERAL INVESTMENT SUPPORTS GROWTH AND MARKET ACCESS FOR CANADA’S BEEF SECTOR
The federal government is investing more than $4 million through the AgriMarketing Program to support market development and trade advocacy for Canada’s beef sector. For Alberta's beef industry, the funding supports export diversification and continued access to key global markets at a time of ongoing trade uncertainty.
This initiative aligns with Chamber policy priorities supporting expanded market access, export diversification and the competitiveness of Alberta’s agriculture sector. The Southeast Alberta Chamber is pleased to see the investments in Canada Beef and the Canadian Cattle Association, as the local Chamber has worked with the Canadian Cattle Association over the years on key advocacy priorities and we recognize the importance local producer voices and perspectives in global policy decisions. Learn more
THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA HIGHLIGHTS DOUBLING OF COMPLIANCE MONETARY PENALTIES UNDER THE TEMPORARY FOREIGN WORKER PROGRAM
From April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026, the TFW Program finalized 1,488 compliance inspections, concentrating on areas with the highest risk of potential non-compliance. Of the employers inspected, 12% were found to be non-compliant. Over $10.2 million in monetary penalties were issued to these employers, more than doubling last year’s total of $4.5 million, and 30 employers were banned from accessing the Program.
These results follow tightening measures that were put in place as of September 2024. Additional measures have recently been implemented to ensure stronger compliance with the Program. See the measures in place and read the full release.
PUTTING ALBERTA'S AI ADVANTAGE TO WORK
Alberta's government is investing $50 million in the Alberta Machine Intelligence Institute (Amii) to put AI to work across public services and grow the economy. The investment will support AI applications that improve public services, strengthen health care, and help the workforce prepare for the jobs of the future.
More Alberta companies are adopting AI to create new made-in-Alberta innovations, improve productivity and compete in a rapidly changing global economy.
Medicine Hat-Cypress News
City of Medicine Hat Council Highlights - July 6, 2026
Medicine Hat City Council has adopted the Strategic Plan 2027–2030, establishing four priorities to guide municipal decisions and services over the next four years: Fiscal Responsibility, Economic Growth through Asset Expansion, Organizational Effectiveness and Reliable Services, and Strong Community Connections.
Council also approved a land transaction involving the Department of National Defence and supported the Miywasin Seniors Housing Project through the donation of City-owned land for affordable seniors housing.
Read the full article online with the newly adopted strategic plan online here.
CYPRESS COUNTY COUNCIL APPROVES BITCOIN MINE EXPANSION
The county’s subdivision and development authority approved a development permit to expand an existing bitcoin mining operation at a natural gas compressor site east of Highway 41.
The project will add four 2.2-megawatt natural gas generators and four bitcoin mining units at the existing fenced compressor station.
Administration said the expansion is the second phase of the project, following the county’s approval of the first phase earlier this year, with the Alberta Utilities Commission approving the latest phase in May.
COMMUNITY VIBRANCY GRANT APPLICATION WINDOW RE-OPENS
The City of Medicine Hat has begun accepting applications for the Community Vibrancy Grant’s Community Project and Activities funding stream. The latest application window focuses on projects and activities which take place in 2027.
The Community Project and Activities application window has $55,000 in funding available for 2027. Applications will be accepted until Friday, August 28, 2026 at 3 p.m.
Read the full article online.
Brooks-Newell News
CHRIST THE REDEEMER CATHOLIC SCHOOLS NEW GRADE 9-12 SCHOOL IN BROOKS PART OF FAST-TRACKED LIST
Alberta’s government is advancing projects that will deliver more than 39,000 new and upgraded student spaces across the province. Of these projects, 19 are now approved for construction funding, while another 22 are moving from planning into the design stage. New schools are advancing in Airdrie, Brooks and Chestermere, supporting rapidly growing communities in southern Alberta, including the Christ the Redeemer Catholic School in Brooks.
BROOKS-NEWELL NEWS: 2027 BUDGET PLANNING MEETING
On July 24, the County of Newell Council will begin discussion on the 2027 budget. Budgets reflect priorities—from roads and infrastructure to community services, recreation, and public safety. Council will begin discussing the projects, programs, and investments that help keep our communities strong. Budget discussions are open to the public, offering residents an opportunity to learn more about how decisions are made, where tax dollars are spent, and what may be on the horizon for 2027.
Transparency matters. Join us and be part of the conversation as we begin planning for the year ahead.
July 24, 2026 | 11:00 am | County of Newell Administration Building – Council Chambers
Can't come in person? No problem, you can access the livestream here.
Advocacy in Action
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RESPONSE TO CITY STRATEGIC PLAN AND BUSINESS COMMUNITY PRIORITIES
The Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce is pleased to see the City of Medicine Hat adopt a new Strategic Plan and is encouraged by the alignment between Council's priorities and the issues that local businesses have consistently identified through Chamber advocacy, policy development, and member engagement. The Strategic Plan establishes a focus on economic growth, fiscal responsibility, organizational effectiveness, and strong community connections - priorities that closely reflect the concerns and opportunities raised by the local business community.
"The Chamber is pleased to see many of the priorities championed by the business community reflected in the City's strategic direction," said Aaron Fleming, President of the Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce. "Economic competitiveness, responsible financial stewardship, efficient municipal processes, workforce attraction, and investment readiness are all essential to creating the conditions for long-term prosperity in our region."
SOUTHEAST ALBERTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FEATURED IN INTERNATIONAL INVESTMENT REPORT HIGHLIGHTING REGIONAL OPPORTUNITY
The Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that the local Chamber of Commerce was recently featured in Investment Reports, an international publication focused on investment, economic development, and business opportunities with a global audience around the world. The feature showcases both the Chamber's role in supporting businesses and the significant opportunities that exist throughout Southeast Alberta.
The interview explores the Chamber's work in connecting businesses, supporting economic growth, and advocating for policies that strengthen the regional economy. The article highlights the Chamber's commitment to helping businesses navigate challenges, access resources, and build meaningful connections with government, industry partners, and each other.
During the interview, Lisa Dressler, Executive Director of the Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce emphasized Southeast Alberta's unique advantages and challenged the misconception that investment opportunities are limited to Canada's largest urban centres. She noted that strong regional economies play a critical role in Canada's economic success and highlighted the region's investment readiness, entrepreneurial spirit, and growth potential.
Infrastructure Minister Martin Long attends Medicine Hat Construction Association Round Table Luncheon
Many thanks to the Medicine Hat Construction Association for the opportunity to attend the round table with Minister Long. Our President, Aaron Fleming, 2nd Vice President, Richard Munro, along with Chamber staff Lisa Dressler and Brad Tajiri, attended alongside the Medicine Hat Construction Association Board and staff, along with members of BILD Medicine Hat. Minister Long was joined by a team from the Infrastructure Ministry as well as our local MLA Justin Wright, the recently appointed Minister of Primary and Preventative Health Services.
It was an excellent open forum discussion covering a wide range of topics that aligned with the Chamber policy and advocacy positions. Additionally, Cypress Club President Troy Wason guided guests through an informative tour of the local landmark and shared details of its history.
HAVE YOUR SAY ON OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE CHANGES
Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration is consulting on proposed changes to the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Code. An updated and easy-to-understand OHS Code helps employers keep workers healthy and safe, and build workplaces that support jobs, attract investment and grow Alberta’s economy.
Engagement includes surveys on proposed changes to the following areas:
• Part 36 – Mining;
• Part 40 – Utility Workers – Electrical;
• Occupational Exposure Limits; and
• Miscellaneous changes to correct errors and update standards, as well as the OHS Code’s approach to referencing technical standards.
Next Level Events
FREE WEBINAR: WOMEN IN CREATIVE INDUSTRIES | STARTUP WOMEN 2026
Startup Women’s mission with Industry Roundtables is to give women-identifying entrepreneurs the chance to connect with and learn from industry experts and later stage founders in the Creative Industries space, share resources in real time, and learn about ecosystem support. This session will be hosted on Zoom meetings. They encourage all attendees to have their camera on and engage throughout the session and will provide space for attendees to ask their questions.
Wednesday, July 22, 2026 | 9 - 11 AM PT | 12 - 2 PM ET
That 'AI Thing' You've Been Avoiding? Let's Use It to Clear Your Daily Backlog
Tired of the AI hype? Join us for a 60-minute session with the Canadian AI Guy and learn 5 practical AI tools you can use this afternoon to strip tedious, time-sucking tasks right off your plate. No jargon, just results.
July 28 | Online event | Register here
Free Webinar: Manufacturing and CleanTech | Startup Global 2026
Startup Global’s mission with Industry Roundtables is to give entrepreneurs the chance to connect with and learn from industry experts and later stage founders in the Manufacturing and CleanTech space, share resources in real time, and learn about industry-specific ecosystem support. This session will be hosted on Zoom. They encourage all attendees to have their camera on and engage throughout the session and will provide space for attendees to ask their questions.
Thursday, July 30, 2026 | 9 - 11 AM PT | 12 - 2 PM ET
More information and to 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
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!
FREE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT TRAINING COURSES
Udemy is one of the most-used online resources available with your library card. The online learning platform is for adults who want to improve work-related skills or further develop a personal interest. Users can search through thousands of continuously updated, on-demand video courses across 75 categories in business, technology, design, and more, including courses taught by native speakers in 12 languages.
All courses are taught by world-class instructors and offer a tailor-made learning experience for those who want to learn new technologies and skills to stay competitive in a changing workforce.
EVERY JOURNEY DESERVES A SAFE RETURN HOME
Every day, thousands of people travel Highway 3. Some are heading to work. Some are transporting goods across Southern Alberta. Some are visiting family. Some are travelling to community events, sporting activities, or simply making their way home. No matter where we're going, we all share the same road.
The Road We Share is the first chapter in the Highway 3 Twinning Development Association's public awareness series, highlighting the people, communities, and businesses that rely on Highway 3 every day. At the heart of this message is a simple reminder: Every journey deserves a safe return home. Watch the video here.
Tell us what Highway 3 means to you by commenting on the post and joining the conversation.
COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF SOUTHEASTERN ALBERTA AWARDS OVER $1.1M IN SPRING GRANTS
Thirty-seven organizations across Southeastern Alberta are receiving $1,125,731.47 in Community Grants from the Community Foundation of Southeastern Alberta (CFSEA) to support initiatives that strengthen communities, improve quality of life, and respond to local needs throughout the region.
Community Grants are awarded through a competitive application process guided by CFSEA’s Vital Signs priorities, including Connection and Belonging, Work and Economy, and Basic Needs such as food, health and housing, with applications reviewed by a volunteer committee that considers community impact, local needs and available funding.
The Community Foundation awards Community Grants twice a year, with the latest funding representing its spring cycle.
Fill Up On Funding
WOMEN’S ECONOMIC AND LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES FUND 2026
Through this call for proposals, the federal government is investing $100 million in projects that help women and girls succeed. Funding will support initiatives that expand leadership opportunities, increase women's participation in sectors where they remain underrepresented, and help women develop the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in an increasingly AI-driven economy.
The deadline for submitting proposals is September 15, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. (noon) Pacific time.
Visit Women and Gender Equality Canada’s website for more information and details on how to apply.
Scale AI
Bringing AI out of the lab and into the field, where real-world applications can truly improve the efficiency of value chains. Scale AI helps companies enhance their AI-based products and services and provides support with go-to-market strategies to drive revenue growth. Over $13M is now available to support AI projects that drive real-world impact.
Canada-Alberta Workforce Resilience Initiative: Supports workforce planning and employer-led training in sectors adapting to global trade pressures.
- Workforce Planning (Open)
- Employer-led Training (Open - Closes September 30)
Veterinary Student Recruitment & Retention Program: (Open) Provides up to $10,000 to support rural clinics in attracting veterinary students.
INTERNATIONAL EMERGENCY ECONOMIC POWERS ACT (IEEPA) DUTY REFUNDS
Recent U.S. court rulings may allow some Alberta businesses to recover tariffs paid on certain imports during the Trump administration. Eligibility is limited, and claims must be filed through U.S. Customs and Border Protection with supporting documentation.
Crossword Puzzle
Crossword Puzzle Answers
Did you figure it out? Here are the answers for the July 7th 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: July 14th, 2026
World Youth Skills Day, Elections Alberta Identifies “Spoof” list of Electors and Website with Fake Data, Federal Investment Supports Growth and Market Access for Canada’s Beef Sector, Doubling of Compliance Monetary Penalties Under Temporary Foreign Worker Program, Alberta’s AI Advantage and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News July 15th is…
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Read More 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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