The Voice: July 28th, 2026
Liquor Sales Application (LSA) Portal System Transition, Statement on Advancing Canada's Pharmaceutical and Life Sciences Sector, Canada Launches Defence Drone Initiative, and more all in this week's edition of The Voice.
Business News
Government of Canada launches Defence Drone Initiative to strengthen Canada’s sovereign defence capabilities
The Government of Canada launched the Defence Drone Initiative (DDI), a new initiative that will accelerate the development, testing and production of Canadian uncrewed and autonomous systems to help provide the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) with access to the sovereign capabilities they need in an increasingly complex security environment.
Initial areas where these capabilities could support CAF and CCG operations include:
- low-cost tactical intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance drones;
- uncrewed ground vehicles for logistics and complex terrain;
- uncrewed maritime surface and underwater systems;
- low-cost, low-collateral counter-drone interceptors;
- standardized drone munitions and explosive payloads; and
- deep precision strike systems.
The Request for Supply Arrangement (RFSA) is open on CanadaBuys until August 14, 2026. The DIA will host a virtual information session to provide interested suppliers with additional information on the process and submission requirements on July 30.
Statement from the Minister of Health and the Minister of Industry on Advancing Canada's Pharmaceutical and Life Sciences Sector
As the work of the Pharmaceutical and Life Sciences Sector Task Force (Task Force) comes to a close, the Government of Canada welcomes the report published and thank the Task Force for its thoughtful discussions on how Canada can strengthen the competitiveness and long-term sustainability of its pharmaceutical and life sciences sector, improve reliable and sustainable access to medicines, and support economic growth.
The Task Force brought together senior leaders and experts from the pharmaceutical sector to explore innovative, made-in-Canada solutions. These productive discussions and engagements have deepened our collective understanding of how health, innovation and regulations are interconnected and work together to support better health outcomes and a growing economy.
More specifically, members discussed topics such as:
- Access to and affordability of pharmaceuticals;
- Pharmaceutical sovereignty and the security of Canada's supply;
- Regulatory approaches for supporting innovation and resilience;
- Modernization of decision-making processes, with a focus on data and evidence;
- Research, innovation, and the pharmaceutical development pipeline; and
- Economic growth, commercialization, and scale-up of life sciences firms.
Liquor Sales Application (LSA) Portal System Transition
As part of AGLC’s upcoming system transition, the Liquor Sales Application (LSA) portal will be unavailable Friday, August 7 to Sunday, August 9, 2026. During this period, LSA will not be available for sales submissions. Transactions may resume as normal on Monday, August 10, 2026.
Consignment settlements for sales submitted prior to the outage will continue to be processed according to the normal schedule. Following the transition, manufacturers should resume sales submissions and payment remittance following standard timelines.
Medicine Hat-Cypress News
Medicine Hat drone company signs partnership with Airbus Defence and Space
Canadian drone company Landing Zones has signed a strategic partnership agreement with Airbus Defence and Space for advanced uncrewed aerial systems. The agreement includes an investment from Airbus and representation on Landing Zones’ board of directors.
Landing Zones will also serve as a dedicated representative for Airbus Defence and Space Services in Canada. Continue Reading
Image Credit: File Photo/CHAT News
Next Section of Roadway Resurfacing Program Set to Begin
The intersection of Division Avenue N and 12 Street N will be closed for catch basin work starting Monday, July 27. The construction is part of the City’s annual roadway resurfacing program, with a section of the 2026 program underway on 12 Street NE. During this work, the intersection will be closed the following days and times:
- Monday, July 27: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Tuesday, July 28: No closure
- Wednesday, July 29: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Thursday, July 30: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Weather permitting, the intersection will reopen by end of day July 30, and no additional intersection closures will be required for this work. Find out more
Join the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board (SDAB)
The City of Medicine Hat is currently seeking residents to serve on the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board (SDAB). The SDAB plays an important role in the community 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 made in the public interest.
This volunteer opportunity is well suited for residents who are interested in local issues, public service, and contributing to a transparent and accountable decision-making process. The City welcomes applications from individuals with a variety of backgrounds and experiences, particularly those with expertise in board governance, risk assessment, legal or legislative compliance, information technology or quantitative literacy, and equity, diversity and inclusion.
Board members gain valuable insight into municipal governance while helping shape outcomes that affect the community. Interested in getting involved? Learn more about the role and submit your application on our Commissions, Boards and Working Groups webpage.
Alcohol in Parks – take the second survey
The Alcohol in Parks pilot program is underway in Medicine Hat. The pilot program will run until September 30, 2026.
It allows users 18 years and older to responsibly consume alcohol while seated at designated picnic tables in Kin Coulee, Echo Dale Regional Park and Strathcona Island Park. Signage is posted on site to indicate which tables are included in the pilot. Park users can take a survey during the pilot program period to let us know how this program affects you and your enjoyment of these spaces. Learn more and take the survey on the Alcohol in Parks Pilot page on Shape Your City.
Brooks-Newell News
2027 Brooks Budget Survey
The City of Brooks is planning for the 2027 budget, and want to hear from you.
The survey focuses on City services where Council has the most flexibility in funding and investment. Results will be shared with Council and used to help inform budget decisions. The survey takes approximately 2–3 minutes to complete.
Provide the City of Brooks with your feedback by completing the survey here.
Healthier Together - Community Survey
Coalition 4 Connection is inviting community members to share their thoughts and experiences through a short survey. Your feedback will help guide future programs, activities, and opportunities that strengthen health, well-being, and social connection in our community.
Complete the survey for a chance to win one of three $50 No Frills gift cards! Take the survey here: https://forms.gle/qf8Nq7oumLhE6mtu7
Open to anyone who lives in Brooks or the County of Newell, the survey and giveaway will close August 13th, 2026. Winners will be contacted directly.
Advocacy in Action
Clean energy investments for Alberta and Saskatchewan
Natural Resources Canada announced more than $26 million for 17 clean energy projects across Alberta and Saskatchewan. The funding will support initiatives that modernize energy infrastructure, expand energy storage, reduce emissions, and strengthen workforce capacity.
Time-Sensitive Request: Impact of New 50% U.S. Tariffs (Section 338)
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce is seeking urgent feedback on how the proposed 50% U.S. Section 338 tariffs could affect Canadian businesses, particularly SMEs. Examples of impacts on sales, costs, contracts, production, investment, jobs, and local communities are needed. Hoping to understand:
- Which businesses, industries and products will be affected
- The expected impact on sales, costs, contracts, production or investment
- How many jobs could be affected or put at risk
- Any other measurable impact on businesses or their communities
It is important that they hear from all parts of the country. If you are an affected business, please complete the short survey as soon as possible.
Canada’s Chambers of the Federation Welcome Landmark Agreement to Expand Internal Trade
Canada’s provincial chambers of commerce welcomed an agreement by nine provinces to enable direct-to-consumer sales of alcoholic beverages across provincial borders. The agreement advances a key priority championed by the Chambers of the Federation to strengthen Canada’s internal market and reduce barriers to trade.
The Chambers of the Federation issued the following statement:
“Today, it became easier for Canadians to buy Canadian wine, beer, and spirits from another province than it has been in generations. That’s a win for consumers, a win for producers, and a win for Canada’s economy."
Next Level Events
Alberta Tariffs and Support – Virtual Sessions
These sessions will explain how the study works, what participating employers can expect, and how industry input will contribute to practical, sector-specific insights and tools designed to support workforce planning and decision making in a rapidly changing operating environment. To Register:
Aug 12th - Alberta's Wood & Forestry Industry - Tariffs and Support - EMC Canada
Aug 19th - Alberta's Plastics Industry - Tariffs and Support - EMC Canada
FREE Canada Alberta Productivity Grant Webinar
Join the WFC team for a FREE 1 hour webinar on the Canada Alberta Productivity Grant (CAPG). Eligible employers can get government funding to help employees and unemployed Albertans access training opportunities.
Expert speakers will guide you through the program, including who is eligible and how to apply, as well as answer questions. The CAPG program helps employers invest in productivity training initiatives. This session is perfect for anyone interested in learning how CAPG can support employers investing in skill development for both current and future employees.
Date: Tuesday, August 18, 2026 | Time: 1:30 – 3:00 pm
Learn more here: https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/8d83cb37-39c5-4a02-b05f-fa39071136ad@2bb51c06-af9b-42c5-8bf5-3c3b7b10850b
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
We would like to welcome Sunshine Learning Station and TD Canada Trust - Strachan Road SE 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!
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! 
Medicine Hat College names new dean for School of Arts, Science & Education
Medicine Hat College is welcoming a new dean to lead its School of Arts, Science and Education.
The college announced Wednesday that Dr. B. Edward Benoit will begin the role on Aug. 15, bringing nearly 25 years of experience in British Columbia’s post-secondary sector.
Benoit has worked as a faculty member, dean and associate vice-president academic, most recently serving as Associate Vice-President, Academic at the College of New Caledonia. In that role, he provided leadership in areas including teaching and learning, applied research, continuing education, academic quality assurance and regional campuses.
Summer Special Olympics in Medicine Hat
We Shine Together! The 2026 Special Olympics is just weeks away, happening August 11th - 15th.
Special Olympics athletes from across Canada who have qualified to represent their home province or territory will gather at the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games, competing in ten sports for personal bests – and in some cases, the chance to represent Special Olympics Team Canada at the 2027 Special Olympics World Summer Game.
So be part of something unforgettable! The Games are still looking for volunteers to help make it all happen. Learn more about the games here, and sign up to volunteer here.
Elavon Meet or Beat Offer - Get a $250 Visa Gift Card!
During July and August, eligible new members who sign up through Elavon's Chamber Referral Program can take advantage of the Meet or Beat Promotion. Elavon will review the member's current processing rates and, if they are unable to meet or beat them, the member may qualify for a $250 Visa Gift Card, subject to the offer terms and conditions.
Manage payments wherever business takes you. With flexible payment options, next business day funding, and 24/7 support, you can run your business with confidence while giving your customers more ways to pay.
What are you waiting for? Get started! Find the payment solution that is best for you: join.paymentstart.com/CAChamber
*Offer valid from July 1 to August 31, 2026. Merchant processing cost comparison is based upon the calculation of the rate and associated per item cost as determined by the three most recent processing statements with a date less than four months old. Please allow 6 to 8 weeks for receipt of your $250 Visa gift card. The awarded gift card is not returnable, refundable, or reloadable, and cannot be used to make cash withdrawals. Use of awarded gift cards in certain provinces and other countries may be restricted by law. Use of awarded gift cards may be restricted at some online merchants, including pay-at-the-pump transactions. The awarded gift card is subject to restrictions, fees, limits, or costs established by the prepaid gift card issuer. The following business and rate types are excluded from this offer: merchants using proprietary mobile programs, merchants priced below established card network interchange costs, franchise locations accepting payments under a corporate pricing program, association membership, trade group, or warehouse pricing, petroleum merchants, and merchants processing through a third-party network. Offer may be extended, modified, or discontinued at any time without notice.
Fill Up On Funding
ALBERTA YOUTH EMPLOYMENT 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.
This program is funded by the Government of Alberta and administered by CAREERS: The Next Generation, a non-profit with nearly 30 years of experience connecting youth and employers across the province.
Applications are now open – don’t miss this opportunity to grow your team and support Alberta’s future workforce. Apply today!
CanExport SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises) program: Deadline extended to August 31, 2026
The program supports businesses by sharing the costs of export-related activities, helping reduce risk and support export diversification. It is intended for companies with meaningful economic ties to Canada, the capacity to grow internationally, and a clear plan to export Canadian goods and services.
Successful projects may receive up to $50,000 in funding for international business development activities. Funding is limited, and applications are assessed on a rolling competitive basis. CanExport SMEs is no longer accepting new applications for projects targeting the U.S. market at this time. Diversity your exports.
Women's Enterprise Organizations of Canada (WEOC): Loan Program
The WEOC Loan Program offers loans up to $50,000 through a unique program created to reduce common barriers women entrepreneurs face when accessing financing. You’ll receive expert guidance from our network of regional partners who’ll help you prepare your business plan and loan application.
SWPP+ Fall Applications Open
The Student Work Placement Program (SWPP+) through Food Processing Skills Canada (FPSC) is now accepting applications for FALL 2026. Employers can be reimbursed 50% of gross wages paid up to $5,000 for each eligible student work placement per term.
SWPP+ is available to support Canadian food and beverage manufacturer employers and related industries in engaging students from Canada’s colleges and universities for work integrated learning placements for one or more semesters.
The following sectors are eligible for SWPP+ funding through FPSC:
- Food and Beverage Manufactures (all sub-sectors)
- Retail Grocery Stores
- Industrial Catering/Food Service
- Cannabis Edibles Processors
- Food Related Associations
Crossword Puzzle
Crossword Puzzle Answers
Did you figure it out? Here are the answers for the July 21st 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
August 5 | The Role of the Board Chair
August 12 | Building Strong Teams and Effective Relationships
August 19 | EMC The Case for Reconnecting Canada’s Manufacturing Economy
August 19 | Committees and Meetings – Board Development Program
August 26 | Grant Writing 101
Useful Links
Follow us on social media for up-to-the-minute updates
The Voice: July 28th, 2026
Liquor Sales Application (LSA) Portal System Transition, Statement on Advancing Canada’s Pharmaceutical and Life Sciences Sector, Canada Launches Defence Drone Initiative, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Government of Canada launches Defence Drone Initiative to strengthen Canada’s sovereign defence capabilities The Government of Canada launched the Defence Drone Initiative (DDI),…
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