The Voice: September 29th, 2026
Truth and Reconciliation Day, Hot Button Issue, Fuel Tax Relief Begins October 1st, Independent Report Released on Costs of Seperation, and more all in this week's edition of The Voice.
Business News
September 30th is National Truth and Reconciliation Day
September 30th marks National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day – Every Child Matters. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day are both observed annually, and they are dedicated to honouring Residential School Survivors, their families, and communities, and to recognize the lasting impacts of Canada’s Residential School system. Learn more about the movements and history on the Government of Canada’s site here.
This National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, explore the rich and diverse cultures, voices, experiences and stories of the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. Start your learning journey today.
October is Disability Employment Awareness Month
Every October, Canadians come together to recognize the contributions of people who have a disability and advance disability inclusion in employment. It’s an opportunity to celebrate talent and take action to build stronger, more disability inclusive workplaces and communities.
You can learn more at https://www.odenetwork.com/initiatives/annual-ndeam-campaign/. You can also learn more by visiting REDI's website at https://redi.ca/, and by registering for the REDI DEAM luncheon on October 29th here.
Hot Button Issue - Alberta's Future: A Business Snapshot
ACC's latest Hot Button Issue research will be released publicly September 29.
With Alberta's October 19 referendum approaching, questions about the province's future are top of mind. The Alberta Chambers of Commerce (ACC) is seeking input from Alberta businesses to better understand how this discussion may impact the business community and Alberta's economic future.
The research will be open September 28 to October 2.
https://research.albertaperspectives.ca/jfe/form/SV_6Mt3ezMm5rnnQy2
Fuel Tax Relief begins October 1
Starting Oct. 1, Alberta will be suspending the full provincial fuel tax, saving families 13 cents per litre on gasoline and diesel every time they fill up until the end of the year. Fuel tax rates for gasoline and diesel are reviewed every three months on Jan. 1, April 1, July 1 and Oct. 1. Rates are based on the average West Texas Intermediate (WTI) oil price in the weeks leading up to each change. Alberta families currently pay the lowest average fuel prices than anywhere else across the country. View this announcement online
Cleantech Already Adds $43 Billion to Canada’s Economy, While Carbon Removal Could Another $78 Billion
Ahead of the Canada Investment Summit, Carbon Removal Canada and the Canada Cleantech Alliance say Canada has a narrow window to become a global leader in cleantech and carbon removal, and it starts with building both directly into the infrastructure and energy deals now on the table. Continue Reading
Independent report released on costs of separation
The University of Calgary's School of Public Policy was commissioned to write an independent report examining potential economic and financial impacts of Alberta separating from Canada. The independent report shows the short-term impacts of potential separation would result in significant economic disruption and costs for Albertans. The report outlines that the cost of establishing a new country could range from $50 billion to $170 billion in the first five years following separation.
These costs are in addition to impacts on economic growth and Alberta’s fiscal position, which is explored in the report. An expert advisory panel, chaired by Dr. Jack Mintz, was appointed to review the report and prepare an independent assessment of the findings. The panel’s work adds a broader range of perspectives to the analysis, ensuring Albertans are equipped with the facts.
Albertans can read the full report and the advisory panel assessment at: https://www.alberta.ca/advisory-panel-on-the-potential-impacts-of-separation.View this announcement online
New tool connects employers with skilled talent
The provincial government introduced Talent Exchange during the WorkFirst Alberta Summit, a new platform designed to help employers connect with job seekers based on their skills and experience. By focusing on capabilities rather than job titles, the platform aims to improve talent matching and help businesses address workforce challenges. Learn more and check out the additional resources online:
Medicine Hat-Cypress News
Council Highlights September 21, 2026
At its September 21 meeting, City Council directed Administration to proceed with Option 1 for the Riverside Corridor Enhancement Project on 3 Street North, maintaining the existing road width while adding curb extensions at seven key pedestrian locations.
Council received a presentation on the proposed 2027-2028 Budget including budget assumptions, property tax projections, operating pressures, and capital investments.
Council also approved updates to the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board (SDAB) Bylaw and the Public Member Appointments Policy to improve clarity around member attendance expectations.
2026 Leadership Breakfast
Join us for our annual Leadership Breakfast, a signature event that brings together Medicine Hat - Cypress leaders from across our region. This is your opportunity to engage directly with decision-makers, participate in open dialogue, and help shape the conversation that drives our communities forward.
Confirmed Speakers for 2026:
- Honourable Justin Wright - MLA for Cypress-Medicine Hat and Minister of Primary and Preventative Health Services
- Linnsie Clark - Mayor of Medicine Hat
- Dan Hamilton - Mayor of Cypress County
- Dwight Kilpatrick - Deputy Mayor of Redcliff
October 21st from 7:00am-9:30am | Learn more and register here
Brooks-Newell News
Brooks Fall Home + Leisure Tradeshow THIS WEEKEND!
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
Bylaw 2139-26 to Redesignate Lands
The Council of the County of Newell is considering Bylaw 2139-26, an amendment to the existing municipal Land Use Bylaw 2016-21 to redesignate lands from I-GEN Industrial, General District to R-RUR Residential, Rural District to allow for a residential development. Anyone wishing to make a presentation regarding the proposed bylaw should contact the Chief Administrative Officer no later than 4:00 p.m. on the 2nd day of October 2026. Both written and/or verbal presentations may be given at the public hearing.
Read the full Notice here > https://countyofnewell.ab.ca/public-hearings
The Brooks Community Football Association receives Provincial Funding
The Government of Alberta is investing $14 million into 20 sport and recreation projects across the province, including The Taber Golf Club and The Brooks Community Football Association. The government has allocated the funding through its Active Communities Initiative, its first grant program dedicated to sport and recreation infrastructure. Government officials estimate the 20 projects should stimulate more than $46 million in economic activity across the province.
EMC Tariff Roundtable and Networking
With tariff announcements, political rhetoric, 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.
Thursday, October 1, 2026 at 8:30 AM | Brooks | Register here.
Advocacy in Action
Beyond Potential: Turning Canada’s Advantages into Growth and a Better Life for All
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce, with PwC Canada, published a new report: Beyond Potential: Turning Canada’s Advantages Into Growth and a Better Life for All. The report looks at five sectors where Canada has a real opportunity to lead — energy, critical minerals and mining, agri-food, defence and security, and AI and quantum technologies — and identifies the missing links between having an advantage and turning it into results. The report explores what it will take to move more projects forward, help Canadian businesses compete and grow.
What Industry Thinks of Canada’s New AI Strategy
The federal government released its new Canada’s 2026 National Artificial Intelligence Strategy: AI for All earlier this year, setting out its approach to accelerating AI adoption and strengthening Canada’s position in the global AI economy.
Read the Canadian Chambers of Commerce Industry Feedback on Canada’s New AI Strategy.
Curious about other recent Canadian Chamber initiatives and advocacy?
Read the Canadian Chamber op-ed in the Financial Post on "Why Carney’s Investment Summit Should Be a One-and-Done Event".
Read the Canadian Chamber response to U.S. trade actions.
Read the Canadian Chamber latest policy matters titled "Cybersecurity Is Everyone’s Business".
Read the op-ed in the Northern Miner on why "Canada’s Critical Minerals Shortcut Is Old Mines".
Next Level Events
An Evening with Pierre Poilievre: Building a Stronger, More Competitive Canada for Business
Hosted by MP Glen Motz and the Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce, join Pierre Poilievre for an engaging discussion on the future of Canadian business, investment, and economic competitiveness.
As businesses across Southeast Alberta and Canada face rising costs, workforce shortages, trade uncertainty, infrastructure challenges, and increasing global competition, the need for policies that support growth, productivity, and investment has never been more important.
Thursday, October 1st from 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Register for the event here.
Presented by the Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce as part of its commitment to fostering informed dialogue on issues affecting business, economic growth, and regional prosperity.
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!
October 8th from 6:00pm to 9:00pm | note: comfort food + drink | Email mhgs@shaw.ca for more information.
Innovation Canada Events
Fall is the perfect season for learning and growth, and there are some great events coming up to help you learn how to leverage government support for your business.
Innovation Canada’s Business Support Expo
In partnership with the Business Development Bank of Canada, this event brings together Government of Canada resources designed to support Canadian entrepreneurs and help SMEs start, grow or scale their business. This is where you can meet federal government representatives, hear from experts and ask questions. What’s more, this year Canadians from across the country can tune in virtually to catch our panel sessions. For more information and to register: Eventbrite
Innovation Canada Webinars
From scaling your business to learning more about digital adoption, we've got webinars focused on the business issues that matter most. For more information and to register: Eventbrite
InnoFusion 2026
InnoFusion is a collaborative initiative that brings together Southern Alberta's innovation ecosystem for engaging programming, networking, and presentations. This event is designed to foster connections and promote collaboration within the region.
October 2, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. | Lethbridge Polytechnic
Free to attend, including a catered lunch. Spaces are limited! Please register using the link: www.ulethbridge.ca/agility/innofusion
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 Iron Hat Brewing Company and Desert Springs Spa 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!
Local RN’s Virtual Care Bridging Gaps in Alberta
Founded right in Medicine Hat, VirtuClinic and the new Digital Health Advisor aim toward a simple yet vital goal; a more accessible, sustainable health-care system for all, regardless of location.
VirtuClinic is a nurse practitioner lead clinic. It maintains all the same abilities as any practitioner clinic, with the bonus of being accessible to anyone in Alberta with an internet connection.
Read Medicine Hat News’ interview and article with Matthew Jubelius with VirtuClinic online in Member News: https://chamber.southeastalbertachamber.ca/membernews/Details/local-rn-s-virtual-care-bridging-gaps-in-alberta-358036
Purolator: ship and save with exclusive group rates
As a member of your local Chamber, you can save up to 55% on reliable, on-time delivery services within Canada. Whether it’s across town or across the country, you’ll get reliable, professional shipping that will satisfy—and impress—your customers.
Contact us to find out more at membership@southeastalbertachamber.ca
Fill Up On Funding
CETPartnership
ERA is contributing up to $3.2 million to the international funding call, creating opportunities for Alberta innovators to collaborate with partners around the world on clean energy technology projects. ERA funding is open to a wide range of applicants, including technology developers, industry, SMEs, research organizations, universities, municipalities, and not-for-profits. Proposals require a consortium of at least three eligible applicants from three participating countries or regions.
Application deadline for pre-proposals is October 8, 2026
Application deadline for full proposals is March 11, 2027
Federal Tariff Response Initiative
A Public Information Session was held by PrairiesCan on September 15 to provide more insight into the various tariff initiatives. You can now watch the webinar here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=faSOqa3W9Xs
The Government of Canada maintains a screening tool, updated with tariff related information, to help you identify available provincial and federal funding opportunities. The ISED Business Benefits Finder will notify you of new opportunities that fit your search parameters after you answer a few questions about your business.
Connect with PrairiesCan
Connect with other Federal Departments
- Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) Tariff Support Website: https://www.bdc.ca/en/special-support/tariffs
- Export Development Canada (EDC) Trade Impact Program: EDC Tariff Support for Canadian Exporters [edc.ca]
- Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) Strategic Response Fund: ISED Strategic Response Fund [ised-isde.canada.ca]
- Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) Tariff Worker and Employer Supports: Support for Workers Impacted by Tariffs [canada.ca]
Trade Pathways: Strengthening Alberta’s Construction Workforce
Trade Pathways is a workforce-development program operated by the Alberta Construction Association. The program works with construction employers, referral partners and eligible job seekers to create practical pathways into employment and apprenticeship. Trade Pathways is designed to help participants establish themselves in construction employment, address barriers that can affect success at work, and build toward longer-term careers in Alberta's skilled trades.
How can Trade Pathways help?
Job Seekers
Interested in a career in construction? Learn who Trade Pathways supports, what assistance may be available and how to connect with an approved referral partner. For Job Seekers ›
Employers
Recruit and develop new workers with support from Trade Pathways, including wage assistance, recruitment support and resources to remove barriers and help develop successful trades people. For Employers ›
Referral Partners
Strengthen your clients’ pathways to employment by connecting them with construction opportunities and post-employment supports to improve job outcomes and long-term success. For Referral Partners ›
Trade Pathways provides individualized participant supports that can help workers succeed. They will help with equipment and clothing needed to get started and work safely. There is Transportation Support to help address transportation barriers to getting to and from work. Training and certifications will help workers succeed in their employment. There is also apprenticeship support for participants progressing into apprenticeship and first-year technical training. For more detailed information about the program please visit: www.tradepathways.ca
The Odlum Brown Forum Pitch
Applications are open for the Odlum Brown Forum Pitch, a national competition offering mentorship, connections, and up to $90,000 CAD in prizes for women, non-binary, and trans-femme founders. Apply before October 8th.
The Odlum Brown Forum Pitch | Apply by October 8
Alberta Industry Skills Grant (AISG)
The Alberta Industry Skills Grant (AISG) supports industries across Alberta to address skill shortages or gaps through industry-driven training opportunities and provide industry-wide benefits to meet current and emerging workforce challenges. The AISG provides funding to collaborative, industry-led training initiatives that respond to evolving workforce needs and strengthen Alberta's economy. Open to all industries, the competitive grant program complements existing workforce development programs by supporting practical, industry-driven solutions.
Grant funding is administered through a Call for Proposal (CFP) process, and applications must be submitted via email to JETI.ABskillsgrant@gov.ab.ca.
The CFP intake period is September 9, 2026 to October 30, 2026. Applications must be received by October 30, 2026 at 3 p.m. Alberta Time. Applications received after the closing date and time will be automatically declined.
Applicants may submit questions, including inquiries about the CFP, to JETI.ABskillsgrant@gov.ab.ca until October 7, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. Alberta Time. Questions received after the question submission deadline will not be considered or answered.
Crossword Puzzle
Crossword Puzzle Answers
Did you figure it out? Here are the answers for the September 22nd 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 29 | Export to the UK
October 2 | Workplace Assessment
October 15 | AI for Export: How to Use AI and Digital Tools to Reach Global Clients
October 21 | Skilled Trades Fair
Useful Links
Follow us on social media for up-to-the-minute updates
The Voice: September 29th, 2026
Truth and Reconciliation Day, Hot Button Issue, Fuel Tax Relief Begins October 1st, Independent Report Released on Costs of Seperation, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News September 30th is National Truth and Reconciliation Day September 30th marks National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day – Every…
Read More The Voice: September 22nd, 2026
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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…
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