Your Weekly Tune Up
Introducing BREIS
BREIS is Medicine Hat Economic Developments Business Retention and Expansion - Industry Specific research initiative. But it's more than just an acronym; it's a new approach to fostering growth and prosperity in our region. The goal? To build strong relationships within the business community, gather industry-specific insights, and develop actionable strategies for sustained growth and success. They invite all interested businesses to reach out to the Economic Development department to join the study today! medicinehat.ca/breis
Medicine Hat Transit seeking input on the future of special transit services
This review will consider industry best practices and identify program gaps and improvement opportunities, including customer service, service delivery and other community expectations. All aspects of the Special Transit services will be reviewed, and recommendations for improvement will be made through a proposed implementation plan and an updated service policy. The community is encouraged to provide their input by filling out the City’s Online Community Survey before June 30, 2024. Find out more.
Beware of scams
A local business owner recently reported to the Medicine Hat Police Service (MHPS) that they had received a call from an unknown person claiming to be an employee of the City of Medicine Hat. The caller advised the business owner that the utilities were going to be disconnected due to lack of payment and directed that payment for the “overdue” amount was required via Bitcoin. The victim was also provided a 1-800 number to call which was directed to a false City of Medicine Hat voicemail system with several prompts for various City departments.
Residents are reminded that the City of Medicine Hat does not accept Bitcoin as a form of payment. If you receive a suspicious and unprompted phone call regarding your utilities, do not engage with the caller and just hang up. If you have questions regarding your City of Medicine Hat Utility account, you can contact the department directly at 403-529-8111.
Anyone who has fallen victim to this scam, and has not already reported it to police, is asked to contact the MHPS at (403) 529-8481.
Connecting Rural Alberta
Through a partnership with the federal government and the Universal Broadband fund, 120 more Alberta communities and more than 14,400 households will gain access to faster, more reliable and affordable internet. To help all of these communities achieve better connectivity, the Alberta and federal governments are investing a combined $150 million. We were pleased to see that Suffield, Ralston was on the list from our local region. View the details
Needs Assessment Survey to Support Ukrainian Evacuees in Rural Alberta Communities
If you are currently involved in supporting Ukrainian evacuees in any capacity (e.g., families hosting Ukrainian evacuees, community groups, professionals in the settlement sector, volunteers, housing providers, employers, educators/teachers), you are invited to contribute by sharing your insights regarding the knowledge needs and topics that should be addressed in the training for this initiative.
Please take the survey before June 25, 2024: Needs Assessment Survey (google.com)
Maximizing opportunities in rural communities
Alberta’s government is providing rural communities with more than $3.2 million in grants for local projects that drive innovation and growth in rural areas. https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=904941F74EFDB-D0CA-18CD-0721E6C7BA206082
Strengthening Alberta’s partnership with the U.S.
Minister of Environment and Protected Areas Rebecca Schulz will promote Alberta’s success in emission reductions and responsible energy development in Washington, D.C. https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=90515E82BF137-D6C2-34B0-DBEB9EF340B5709A
Advocacy in Action
Strategic Airport Development Plan: Regional Airport Survey
The City of Medicine Hat is developing a long-term Strategic Airport Development Plan for the Medicine Hat Regional Airport (YXH) and they want to ensure strategic planning for the airport supports the needs of the region today and tomorrow. Your input to this important survey will help provide vital direction regarding the development of the airport. The survey will take approximately 5-10 minutes to complete. If you do not have exact figures for some questions, a best estimate is better than leaving the question blank. Please provide only one survey response for your organization. The deadline for completing this survey is Friday, June 21, 2024.
Complete the survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/YXH2024
For interest, the Chamber of Commerce has long advocated for improved air service in the region, having achieved our recommendations in 2018-2019. However, with changes in air service, it is something that the Chamber is looking into once again. Read our previous policy recommendations here.
We're refreshing the Land Use Bylaw
The City of Medicine Hat is in the process of refreshing its Land Use Bylaw (LUB), and they want your feedback. A Land Use Bylaw helps to ensure ongoing development aligns with the City’s overall vision. The bylaw controls development by categorizing all properties in a city into various land use districts. It governs what land use may occur on every piece of property and establishes a system for issuing development permits. The current Land Use Bylaw was drafted in 2013 and this refresh is intended to better serve the current and future needs of Medicine Hat. Complete the survey by July 31.
Confidently Build Your Business
This month marks the start of our Business Launch Program that helps early-stage entrepreneurs evaluate and develop their business ideas through three personalized 45-minute sessions with a member of the team. The sessions cover idea validation, financial feasibility, business modeling and provides you with the foundation to start your small business. Take the first steps in your entrepreneur journey today.
Supporting Indigenous Communities
June is Indigenous History Month and to celebrate we’re sharing stories from Alberta’s Indigenous owned businesses. Meet Jason, Founder of Eagle Feather Entertainment, offering DJing, photo booths, and karaoke services.
Committed to supporting Indigenous communities, Jason combines professional advice with a passion for making a positive impact in the community. His purpose-driven business journey, marked by dedication and innovation, is truly inspiring.
Next Level Events
Grand Openings Galore!
These next couple of weeks are PACKED with grand openings! Join us in supporting these local businesses and their milestones. Check out the upcoming openings here.
Celebrate businesses like Funny Farm K9 Coaching, and be there for milestones like CORE’s 70th anniversary, and the re-opening of TheraPinay Massage.
2024 Downtown Chili Cook-Off
Join us at this year's Downtown Chili Cook-Off on Saturday, July 13th!!
Bowl sales from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, or until chili runs out. Tasting bowls are $5 and hand-made pottery bowls from the Pottery Association are $10... plus money from each of their bowls is donated to AJ's Loan Cupboard!
Free face painting from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm, free bouncy castles from 12:00pm to 4:00m, AND don't forget the eating contest at 2:00 pm. Awards ceremony at 3:00 pm... who will this year's chili winners be?? In the meantime, check out the 2023 winners here!
Downtown Block Parties This Summer
This summer, discover the heart of our community at Towne Square's Block Party on Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m.
It's where neighbours become friends, and the community comes alive. This is your Towne Square, join us to celebrate the unique energy of our town. Guests can expect a changing lineup of free activities and games for all ages, loosely centered around a new theme each week.
Check out more info here: https://www.medicinehat.ca/en/parks-recreation-and-culture/towne-square.aspx
Enriching Your Business
There's a reason Chambers Plan is Canada's #1 plan.
Contact JoAnne Letkeman,
Exclusive Chamber Group Advisor,
403-504-2166 ext 1.
Fueling the Business Community
• BUSINESS DIRECTORY •
Check out all the amazing businesses we have in Southern Alberta in our Business Directory here!!
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 moving forward!
Big Brothers Big Sisters turns 50
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Medicine Hat and District is thrilled to celebrate 50 years of mentoring youth in our community. As part of our golden anniversary, we are excited to launch the 50 Donations for $50K Campaign, a landmark campaign designed to expand our reach in the community and Southern Alberta.
2024 marks a pivotal year as BBBS not only commemorates five decades of transformative work but also aims to pave the way for future initiatives. In a display of community and philanthropy, the 50 Donations for $50K Campaign, seeks to enlist 50 donors who will contribute $1,000 each, enhancing our programs and support systems for the youth. All donations (up to $50K) will be matched by the Yuill Family Foundation.
The impact of your donation will therefore be doubled, directly benefiting young people throughout Medicine Hat and surrounding districts. By joining the 50 Donations for $50K Campaign, donors will not only celebrate this milestone anniversary but also have their name etched on a plaque and mirror that will hang in Big Brothers Big Sisters Medicine Hat office as a legacy. All donations receive a charitable receipt. For more information on how you can participate, please contact Holly Stadnicki at holly.stadnicki@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca . Join us in celebrating 50 years of mentoring and help us look forward to another 50 years of growth and success: 50 Donations for $50K - Big Brothers Big Sisters of Medicine Hat & District
MHC Data Analytics for Business Certificate
The Data Analytics for Business Certificate is designed to lead and advance data literacy skills among learners who are already employed. It embeds essential skills in existing workplaces, without the need for employees to take time off to attend class. It is designed to provide an intensive learning experience for employed individuals, enhancing their ability to transform the workplace data they already have into practical intelligence that can be used to inform decision-making. Individuals will benefit from enhanced analytical skills transferable between roles and industries. Employers will benefit from enhanced strategic decision-making and efficiency, by building analytical skills among existing employees. https://www.mhc.ab.ca/
June is Men’s Mental Health Month
This month brings awareness to a lot of things, including Men’s Mental Health. Remember to take care of yourself! Business owners in general wear many hats and take on many roles, and sometimes that can take a toll. Take a moment to look through some of these entrepreneur mental health resources, for both you and your employees:
https://www.bdc.ca/en/about/entrepreneurs-well-being/resources
Fill Up On Funding
Community grants to non-profit organizations
The Community Facility Enhancement Program supports the building of new and enhancing of existing community spaces such as heritage locations, community halls, community theatres, festival spaces and many more.
Community programs, projects and initiatives such as music and film festivals, skill-based classes, cultural events and outreach programs are supported through the Community Initiatives Program (CIP) grant.
Exciting opportunity for cleantech innovators
The Energy Innovation Challenge (EIC) is open for applications! This initiative, organized by Decentralised Energy Canada (DEC) in partnership with the City of Medicine Hat, aims to advance decentralised energy solutions in Canada. We are seeking innovative technologies that can improve grid reliability, resiliency, energy affordability, and sustainability.
Key highlights:
- Up to $1 million in total funding available for up to 6 projects
- Projects can be awarded up to a maximum of $250,000
Applications are due by June 21, 2024, at 8pm MDT
Don't miss this chance to bring your innovative solutions to market and make a real impact on Canada's energy landscape. Check out the challenge’s website to consult the application guide.
Call for proposals under the Enabling Accessibility Fund (EAF) for small projects
This new Call for proposals allocates $14.7 million to fund around 150 small-scale construction projects, with each project eligible for up to $125,000. Priority will be given to projects led by Indigenous organizations and those supporting persons with disabilities in poverty. Organizations have until July 23, 2024, to submit proposals online. Learn more
Alberta Export Expansion Program Launches for 2024-25
Is your company in a solid export-ready position? Are you looking to find new markets for your products? Then the Alberta Export Expansion Program may be for you.
This Government of Alberta program provides funding to export-ready small and medium-sized businesses to travel to global markets to promote their products, make business connections and explore partnership opportunities. We’ve made changes to the program to clarify the criteria, promote increased consistency and access; and reduce red tape by simplifying the application and reimbursement process.
Companies that meet eligibility criteria can receive a grant to attend formal international trade events for travel after April 1, 2024. Funding is available to cover partial event registration costs as well as per diems for up to two travellers per organization per event. Organizations can receive up to a maximum of $15,000 through the AEEP program each fiscal year.
The program operates on a first-come, first-served basis and has a budget of $1 million for the 2024-25 fiscal year. For more information on eligibility criteria, program guidelines and the application process, visit https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-export-expansion-program
Brooks-Newell Region News
Small Community Opportunity Program
To support local projects that promote innovation and sustainable economic growth across the province, Alberta’s government established the Small Community Opportunity Program. Through Budget 2023, the program has awarded grants between $20,000 and $100,000 for 43 community-led projects that build capacity in agriculture, small business supports and local economic development. Congratulations to the City of Brooks who was awarded $90,000 to connect with the local business community and provide supports for succession planning and implementation. Stay tuned for dates and details. View the Government of Alberta Announcement online and join the Business to Business Mixer on June 18: https://chamber.southeastalbertachamber.ca/brookseventcalendar/Details/business-to-business-mixer-1136334?sourceTypeId=Website
Construction off 3 Street West
Wahl Construction is building two commercial buildings behind Ricky’s. One building is currently designated as a daycare, the other is split into three sections for commercial units. The project is hoped to be completed in the spring of 2025.
City of Brooks 2024 Street Improvement Projects
- Centre St., complete South end at 2nd Ave.
- Fairview Reservoir, surface improvements.
- 2nd Ave., complete full rebuild from 3rd St. E. to A to Zed.
- Veiner Rd., rebuild from Young Rd. to the new section.
- 6th St. E., complete North end at Sutherland Dr.
- Sutherland Dr., walking trail from Cassils to the new dog park.
- Water Main Replacement, replace the steel water main from 2nd St. W. to Alberta St.
JBS Canada Hosts Groundbreaking Event
BS Canada was proud to host a monumental groundbreaking event this June at our Brooks facility. The event, which celebrates JBS Canada’s 80 million dollar investment in a new & innovative distribution center, was attended by a number of special guests, members of the JBS Canada Executive Management team, and over 1000 JBS Canada team members!
In attendance were County of Newell councilors Holly Johnson, Greg Skriver, Neil Johnson & Reve Doerksen, Brooks Mayor John Petrie, MP Martin Shields, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation RJ Sigurdson, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, and CEO of JBS USA Wesley Batista Filho! These distinguished guests were able to interact one-on-one with some of our amazing JBS Canada team members, who came to show their support during the event. The energy, enthusiasm and loud cheers of our attending team members showed all of our guests what makes JBS Canada special. “Our team members are the reason that JBS Canada is able to make such a substantial investment in Brooks” said Celio Fritche. “Thank you, for your hard work, dedication, and for working to feed Canada each and every day”.
The groundbreaking event was MC’d by JBS Canada Head of Human Resources Yonathan Negussie, and featured speeches from Premier Danielle Smith, RJ Sigurdson, President of JBS Canada Celio Fritche and Wesley Batista Filho. “JBS Canada is a benchmark for our beef business units in North America.” said Wesley. “This distribution center will ensure that JBS Canada remains on the cutting edge of supply chain technology, and we look forward to its completion”.
https://jbsfoodsgroup.com/locations/canada
Crossword Puzzle
Crossword Puzzle Answers
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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
June 15 - Sept. 7 | Block Party @ Towne Square | More Info
Support your community | Grand Openings Calendar
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