The Voice: September 22nd, 2026
Referendum Information Updates, AIT Seeks Industry Insights on Workforce Needs, Alberta and Canada Invest $24.8 Million to Expand Rural Broadband, Government of Canada Tariff Supports, and more all in this week's edition of The Voice.
Business News
Referendum Information Updates
The deadline to request a special ballot from Elections Alberta’s website or at local returning offices is Friday, September 25, 2026. Starting September 21, electors will have the option when applying for a special ballot to request pick up from their local returning office. Please wait until you are contacted before going to pick up your ballot at the requested location. Electors are reminded the same identification requirements and standards are applied to voting by special ballot as voting in person to ensure the integrity of the vote.
- If your special ballot package does not contain copies of your accepted ID or declaration, it cannot be accepted. Elections Alberta will attempt to contact you to receive these documents. If we are unable to receive them, your special ballot will be rejected, and you will need to vote in person during advance voting or on Election Day.
- Do not send your original ID in your special ballot package. Please send a photocopy, scan, or photo only. Black and white copies are accepted. The information must be clear and legible. If you are using methods of ID like a utility bill, you may black out your utility account number and usage/billing information.
- Canada Post strongly recommends electors mail their completed special ballot packages back to Elections Alberta by October 9, 2026, to ensure they are received by the deadline, Friday, October 16, at 5:00pm. If a special ballot package is not received by Elections Alberta by the deadline, electors can still vote during advance voting or in person on October 19.
The voting register is updated to reflect when a special ballot has been received to ensure that electors cannot vote more than once. Electors should check their tracking information to confirm their ballots have been received and marked as voted.
Electors who have questions or need assistance may contact the Service Centre at 1-877-422-VOTE (8683), open from 8:15am-8:00pm weekdays, 8:15am-6:00pm weekends, and 8:15am-8:00pm on voting days. Find out more
AIT seeks industry insights on workforce and training needs
Apprenticeship and Industry Training (AIT) is seeking feedback on apprenticeship technical training demand and future workforce needs in Alberta. Survey results will help inform apprenticeship training forecasting, scheduling and seat demand over the next one to three years.
Alberta and Canada invest $24.8 million to expand rural broadband
The Governments of Canada and Alberta announced $24.8 million in joint funding to bring high speed internet access to 1,833 households in rural and remote Alberta communities. This initiative aims to strengthen access to markets, talent, digital services and emerging technologies. Project completion is expected by March 2028.\
Provincial and Federal Government Partnership supports new affordable housing projects
The Alberta and federal governments have announced a new partnership to support 21 affordable housing projects, delivering at least 1,460 new units across the province. The agreement includes plans for a coordinated "single-window" funding process intended to reduce duplication and help projects move forward more efficiently.
Government of Canada Tariff Supports
In response to the shifting economic landscape, the Government of Canada has a plan to protect and strengthen Canada's economic future. This means giving Canadian workers and employers the tools they need to adapt and succeed all in one place.
Government supports include:
- Prevent layoffs with the Work-Sharing Program
- Adapt to today's market place using Job Bank
- Try the Student Work Placement Program
- Training Options
- Worker Retention Grant
- Regional Tariff Response Initiative
- Strageic Response Fund
- Supports for Business
- Business Benefit Finder
And, the Government has laid out a process for requesting remission of tariffs. Check the main website from the Government of Canada for additional resources and details. The Government of Alberta has also launched a tariff impact portal.
Medicine Hat-Cypress News
Cypress County unveils bold new look: attracting investment, supporting local enterprise and strengthening community pride.
The big word is out. Cypress County unveiled its new brand identity Friday during a special dinner held alongside the Site Link Forum economic development conference, introducing a renewed message built around a clear promise: live big, build bigger. The launch brought together Council, staff, community partners, and economic development leaders to celebrate an evolution of the county.
Mayor Dan Hamilton described Cypress County as “A place where people come to build something, whether that's a business, a farm, a career or a life. This new brand captures that sense of possibility. It reflects our heritage, our independence, and our belief that big things happen when people are given the room to succeed."
The rebrand represents a renewed vision for how Cypress County tells its story, celebrates its strengths, and holds itself accountable to the people, businesses, and communities it serves. At the centre of that story is the tagline "Live big. Build bigger.", a statement that reflects the County’s role as a place where ambition has the space, support, and practical foundation to grow.
The brand is also supported by accountability statements that define how Cypress County will show up in its communications, services, and decisions: with clarity, confidence, practicality, and a focus on creating room for people and ideas to move forward. The visual identity supports that message with colours and design elements inspired by Cypress County’s expansive landscapes, abundant sunshine, strong communities, and practical, roll-up-your-sleeves mindset.
Approved by Council Aug. 18 and developed through a comprehensive branding process with Alberta-based marketing company Unfussy, the new identity establishes a consistent look, voice and story for Cypress County as it continues to attract investment, support local enterprise and strengthen community pride. This is more than a new look. It is a public commitment to communicate clearly, act with purpose, and create the conditions for residents, businesses, families, and communities to build something lasting. In Cypress County, people have the room to live big and the foundation to build bigger. The bold new brand can be explored at www.cypress.ab.ca.
Cypress County Council Highlights – September 15, 2026
Cypress County council dealt with tax penalties, a potential water-system transfer, a proposed golf cart pilot project, several residential development applications and changes to gravel-road maintenance at its meeting on Tuesday, September 15th. Continue Reading
A five-member group of visitor associations along Alberta’s Crowsnest Highway is entering the next phase of its regional tourism initiative.The Highway 3 Tourism Corridor, as it’s known, will now see communities define their ambitions, and identify infrastructure and investment possibilities.
Applications open for City Agencies
Medicine Hat residents who want to make a difference in their community are invited to apply for openings on the City’s boards, commissions, and working groups. These agencies bring community involvement into the City's decision-making process. Members have the unique opportunity to share their perspectives, provide input on key issues, and influence the direction of our City. Public members play an important role in ensuring diverse community perspectives are represented. Agency members will also benefit by enhancing their own knowledge and experience.
Recruitment is underway for more than 20 volunteer positions. Applications will be accepted until October 30, 2026 at 4:30 p.m. Read the full article on their website.
Prairie Rose Public Schools provides updates on Redcliff and agriculture schools, and board chairs
Prairie Rose Public Schools is moving ahead with plans for a new kindergarten-to-Grade 9 school in Redcliff while construction continues on its planned School of Agriculture near Dunmore. Trustees received updates on both projects during the school division’s public board meeting Tuesday.
The Redcliff school project is now about 30 per cent designed, under existing provincial funding. This includes the schematic design, school layout and building placement on the east side of the Town. Once design work is complete and construction funding approved, the division expects a request for proposals to be issued for the remaining design and construction work.
Provincial referendum signage regulations
The City of Medicine Hat has received a number of inquiries related to provincial referendum signage. As a municipal government, the City has a limited role in the regulation of any type of provincial election signage.
Read the full advisory for more information which clarifies provincial and municipal governments’ legislated roles for signage regulation ahead of the referendum on October 19, 2026.
Brooks-Newell News
Treaty 7 Blanket Exercise
Join the City of Brooks for an interactive Learning experience and reflection Treaty 7 Blanket Exercise. Led by Metis/ Cree Knowledge Keeper Lisa Sowinski with Indigenous Allies Heather Brantner and Tracy Forbes.
Hosted at the Brooks Kinsmen Hall, September 30th from 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM. Registration is required as space is limited.
Brooks Fall Home + Leisure Tradeshow happening October 2nd - 4th
The Southeast Alberta Home & Leisure Tradeshow is Brooks largest business showcase, drawing thousands of visitors over three days, from October 2nd-4th, 2026. Entering its third year of production, the show continues to grow its audience and impact.
A great opportunity to get a head start on your fall projects, find your next food + drink favourite, and shop all of the great tradeshow booths and market vendors. With 100 booths and market stalls to explore, there is truly something for everyone.
Online ticket are now live - grab your tickets ahead of time, and skip the lines day-of: https://chamber.southeastalbertachamber.ca/ap/Events/Register/7EFOO1vcNCQCd
Advocacy in Action
Medicine Hat Air Service Development
Help us Tell Southeast Alberta's Story
The loss of scheduled passenger air service at Medicine Hat Regional Airport has created challenges for businesses across Southeast Alberta. Whether it has impacted your ability to meet clients, attract and retain employees, connect with suppliers, access new markets, or grow your business, we want to hear from you.
The Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the City of Medicine Hat and New West Public Affairs, is gathering feedback through a brief survey to better understand the real-world impacts of the loss of air service on our business community.
The window to restore service is limited because federal infrastructure funding eligibility is tied to scheduled service.
If service is not restored by mid-2027, Medicine Hat could lose eligibility, shifting capital funding costs back to residents and businesses through taxes.
Every survey response helps build the case for restoring reliable, sustainable air service to our region and supports ongoing advocacy efforts with provincial and federal governments, airlines, and key stakeholders.
Restoring service protects:
- Economic Growth & Opportunities
- Access to National and International networks and markets
- Ability to reach clients more easily
- attracts new workers
- Investment attraction
What has your business experienced since air service ended?
- Increased travel costs?
- More time spent driving?
- Challenges recruiting talent?
- Delayed projects or client visits?
- Missed business opportunities?
What impact would reliable and convenient air service have on your business or organization?
- less driving and more time focussed on your organization?
- Improved ability to recruit and retain talent?
- Increased productivity through same-day business travel?
- Greater confidence in expanding operations in Southeast Alberta?The demand is proven.
The deadline is real.
Medicine Hat is ready.
Thank you for helping ensure the voice of Southeast Alberta's business community is heard.
Take the Survey | Download the 'Letter of Support' Template & Email to support@southeastalbertachamber.ca
SE Alberta Chamber of Commerce Policies: Improvements to Regional Air Service | Medicine Hat Air Service
Policy: Medicine Hat Air Service | Policy: Improvements to Regional Air Service
Strengthen your business resilience
Looking for practical resources to help your business navigate change and uncertainty? The Canadian Business Resilience Hub, developed by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce offers tools, guidance and insights to help businesses build resilience, manage risks and adapt to changing economic conditions. Explore the hub
ERA ALBERTA: Survey about Alberta’s Environment, Economy, and Technology Innovation
ERA Alberta invites you to participate in a study to further understand Albertan's views on Alberta's environment, economy and technology innovation. This survey will be open until October 9, 2026.
Next Level Events
ACC: In Recognition of National Day for Truth & Reconciliation
This National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, ACC is pleased to welcome Cody Demerais, an award-winning Métis entrepreneur, author, keynote speaker and Chamber leader, for a special virtual session with Alberta's business community. Through personal storytelling and reflection, Cody will share his perspective on identity, belonging and resilience, and explore the role business and community leaders can play in building stronger relationships and contributing to reconciliation in their organizations and communities.
September 30 | 10:00–11:00 a.m. MT | Virtual | Register now
Tariff Roundtable & Networking Event
Join Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium for an Alberta Tariff roundtable designed to help manufacturers understand current tariff developments and focus on the issues that matter most to their business. With tariff announcements and trade speculation emerging almost daily, it can be challenging to separate meaningful information from background noise.
Matt Sando of Jori Logistics will present “Tariffs: News vs. Noise”, offering Alberta manufacturers a practical framework for identifying important developments, assessing potential business impacts, and responding with greater clarity and confidence. The session will also include networking over coffee and a light breakfast, along with an overview of EMC’s Alberta Tariff Impact Study needs assessment led by Sue Oguchi.
Tuesday, September 29th - Medicine Hat - 8:30am - Tariff Roundtable and Networking Medicine Hat- EMC Canada
Thursday, October 1st - Brooks - 8:30am - Tariff Roundtable and Networking Brooks - EMC Canada
ATB Webinar: Navigating Foreign Exchange for Business
Get the inside track on foreign exchange market volatility with ATB Regional Markets. In a rapidly changing global economy amid geopolitical tensions, business owners need tools and knowledge to effectively navigate foreign exchange (FX) market volatility. The right strategy can make the difference between reacting to the market and leading it, whether your goal is to reach new markets or simply manage fluctuating FX rates.
Get the inside track on FX, including: - Understanding market shifts by learning about the economic drivers impacting you and how to proactively manage volatility. - Strategic FX planning that moves you from reactive transaction management to a strategy that protects your margins. - ATB resources and support that can help you gain a competitive edge.
October 1, 2026 | 11:00am MST | More information and to register
BDC Defence Platform Webinar
A webinar on BDC’s new defence platform and what it means for Canadian manufacturers, taking place on October 16, 2026 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM MST.
Investments in the defence and security sectors are intensifying, creating new opportunities for Canadian manufacturing companies. In this context, the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) has launched a new platform dedicated to supporting the growth, innovation and integration of SMEs into defence supply chains. This webinar will provide manufacturers with a practical overview of the new initiative and the opportunities it may create for businesses looking to grow, invest and participate in Canada’s evolving defence ecosystem.
The session will be led by Guillaume Bédard, and will explore what this initiative means in practical terms for companies operating in the manufacturing sector.
Registration: https://cme-mec.ca/connection/cme-webinar-series-unlocking-defence-opportunities-with-bdc/
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 NME Consulting Inc. and Sturdy Ground Consulting & Counselling Services 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!
Genealogy Pop-Up: Discover Your Family Story
Bring a photo. Ask a question. Discover a story. Join the Medicine Hat Genealogical Society on October 8th to try some hands-on genealogy! There will be worksheets such as pedigree charts and family group records to get you started, and you can work with the society to use AI to find out more information! There will be brochures with take-home information, and different resources available to research.
October 8th from 6:00pm to 9:00pm | located at note: food + drink | Email mhgs@shaw.ca for more information.
Alberta Chambers of Commerce - Take your business to DEFSEC Atlantic
ACC is seeking businesses interested in attending the DEFSEC Atlantic trade mission in Halifax. This leading defence and security conference connects Alberta companies with procurement officials, military leaders, prime contractors, and industry partners, offering opportunities to explore new markets, build strategic relationships, and learn about procurement and supply chain opportunities in defence, aerospace, cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing.
Medicine Hat’s Paterson receives double nomination for ASTech Awards
A southeastern Alberta project to turn orphaned oil and gas wells into community solar facilities has been nominated for two Alberta science and technology awards. Wes Paterson says the project has been piloted in the Taber and Foremost areas and is receiving recognition in the energy innovation and regional innovation categories at the 37th annual ASTech Awards.
“Very excited to be nominated,” Paterson said. “I’m also going to have the opportunity to lead a roundtable discussion around energy innovation and supporting regional innovation.”
Fill Up On Funding
New tariff supports available for Prairie businesses
PrairiesCan is now accepting applications for the expanded Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) in the Prairie region. RTRI helps businesses and the not-for-profit organizations that support them respond to tariffs and trade disruptions. Funding can support short-term liquidity needs for businesses, as well as pivot projects that help businesses adapt, diversify and build resilience.
Apply today — Applications will be accepted until December 31, 2028 or until all available funding is committed.
Team Canada Strong Youth Placements
This funding opportunity aims to provide youth aged 15-30 with paid, entry level construction and trades related work placements supporting pathways into apprenticeships. It will fund projects that help participants, including those facing barriers to employment, develop skills and gain exposure to construction and trades-related occupations, build professional networks, and advance toward long-term careers in the skilled trades.
Application Period: September 17, 2026, to October 23, 2026, at 7:00 pm Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)
Learn more here.
Apply now for our Tourism Investment Program
Applications are now open for all three Tourism Investment Program funding streams until 4 p.m. on October 6, 2026. This program is aimed at supporting the growth of Alberta’s tourism industry, fostering new product development, and growing Alberta’s visitor economy. Submit your application early and take the time to make sure it is complete before the deadline.
There are three funding streams:
- Events and Festivals: to grow or activate new events and festivals that charge admission, drive overnight visitation, and are two or more days in length.
- Rural Development and Promotion: to support regional promotional strategies aimed at growing visitation to rural destinations and driving cash flow to local tourism businesses.
- Product Development: to create a new purchasable tourism experience within Alberta.
AB invests $5.5M into workforce development through AISG program, opens applications
The Government of Alberta is investing $5.5M through the Alberta Industry Skills Grant (AISG) in 2026-27 to support initiatives that will address sector-wide skill shortages and enable provincewide workforce development.
“At a time of economic uncertainty, it is critically important we maintain a competitive workforce that can keep up with the speed of investment,” said AB Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade, and Immigration Joseph Schow.
“This keeps jobs closer to home and benefits Alberta families by increasing knowledge and skills on the job.” Applications are being accepted for the competitive grant program, with successful projects expected to begin in early 2027. https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-industry-skills-grant
Crossword Puzzle
Crossword Puzzle Answers
Did you figure it out? Here are the answers for the September 15th 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
Brooks YMCA September Workshops
Non-profit learning webinars | Alberta.ca
September 21-24 | Fundraising for Entrepreneurs
September 22 | SEO: Understanding the Basics
September 24 | Costliest HR mistakes that nonprofits make
September 28 | Unlocking Government Resources With Corporation Canada & Innovation Canada
Sept. 28 - Oct. 1 | Startup Investing
September 28 | EMC Burnout & Bias
Useful Links
Follow us on social media for up-to-the-minute updates
The Voice: September 22nd, 2026
Referendum Information Updates, AIT Seeks Industry Insights on Workforce Needs, Alberta and Canada Invest $24.8 Million to Expand Rural Broadband, Government of Canada Tariff Supports, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Referendum Information Updates The deadline to request a special ballot from Elections Alberta’s website or at local returning…
Read More The Voice: September 15th, 2026
Passenger Rail Virtual Information Session, Alberta’s Government Funding New Post-Secondary Spaces, Alberta Bans Solar Panels from Landfills, Rural Crime Prevention, Strategic Changes to Agristability, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Passenger rail virtual information session Interested in the future of passenger rail in Alberta? Transportation & Economic Corridors is…
Read More The Voice: September 8th, 2026
Canada Announces Targeted Countermeasures and Support in Reponse to Tariffs, Southeast Alberta Recieves Provincial Funding to Strengthen Agri-Food Sector, Responsible Data Centre Develpment Principles, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Canada announces targeted countermeasures and substantive support for workers and businesses in response to U.S. tariffs To support Canadian…
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