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President's Message: A Path Forward

2024 Annual Report

Forging a Path Forward

The Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce, formally known as the Medicine Hat & District Chamber of Commerce, has been fueling the business community for what is coming up to be 125 years. As we continue to forge a path forward, we're reflecting on how our organization, along with the members and communities we serve, have grown and adapted to meet the challenges of an evolving landscape.

This year the Chamber had a significant milestone of expanding into the Brooks-Newell region and transitioning to a new identity as the Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce. The official boundaries now include the Town of Bassano, the City of Brooks, the Municipal District of Cypress County - which includes Wild Horse, Seven Persons, Elkwater, Irvine, Walsh, Dunmore, Schuler, Hilda, Suffield, Ralston, Veinerville and Desert Blume, the Village of Duchess, the City of Medicine Hat, the County of Newell, the Town of Redcliff and the Village of Rosemary.

These changes symbolize not only our commitment to greater regional collaboration but also our determination to provide beneficial expanded resources and connections that benefit all businesses across Southeast Alberta.

While change often comes with bumps and obstacles along the way, each adjustment has strengthened our foundation and allowed us to adapt more dynamically, reflecting the needs and aspirations of our members.

Through feedback, surveys and conversations, we know the biggest challenges for our business community relate to the rising costs of doing business, workforce management, the economic climate, marketing and awareness for businesses and the regulatory environment that businesses have to face. We look to address these through further engagement and support for our members, influencing the regulatory environment of Government through our advocacy and providing more resources, tools and supports to help our members along their journey.

As we move forward, we are excited to continue forging a path that allows us to connect and support our members, while influencing meaningful change in Southeast Alberta.