The Voice: March 18th, 2025
24th Prime Minister Mark Carney: A Call to Action by Chambers, New Gas Reserves Take Canada into Global Top 10, Transitional Period for Updated 2024 OHS Code Ends on March 30th, and more all in this week's edition of The Voice.
Business News
24th Prime Minister Mark Carney: A Call to Action by Chambers
Canada is at an inflection point. Successfully navigating the increasingly uncertain and hostile international economic environment needs a unified and strategic approach to ensure Canada’s economic security and sovereignty. We urge the Government to focus on addressing the immediate domestic challenges holding Canada back from reaching our full potential. We need a multipartisan effort to make sure that Canada is an open and competitive place for business — that means updating existing infrastructure, reforming our tax and regulatory systems, expanding our export markets, and ensuring free trade between provinces and territories. As the voice of businesses across the country, we remain committed to building a Canada of thriving business opportunity, a strong economy and our vision of a better life for all. Read the Canadian Chamber Statement
New gas reserves take Canada into global top 10
Alberta has always been a giant when it comes to natural gas, but after looking carefully at the Montney, Duvernay and the Deep Basin, new data has identified that the total gas resource in ground exceeds 1,360 trillion cubic feet (TCF). Of this, 130TCF is proved and recoverable gas reserves. For comparison, the latest U.S. government reserve number, using comparable methodologies, for Texas natural gas is 170TCF. Adding these new gas reserves to other provinces’ reserves sees Canada’s overall gas number more than double and results in Canada’s ranking moving from number 15 to number nine globally. Find out more.
Canada announces 2025 Express Entry category-based draws, plans for more in-Canada draws to reduce labour shortages
The 2025 Express Entry categories have been announced, including a new education category to align the selection of federal economic immigrants with Canada’s long-term labour shortages. For 2025, the focus of the federal economic class draws will be to invite candidates with experience working in Canada (Canadian Experience Class) to apply for permanent residence. Additionally, to meet Francophone immigration targets and meet the acute needs in health, trades and education, IRCC will conduct category-based invitation rounds in the following categories:
- strong French language skills, or
- work experience in the following fields:
- health care and social services, such as family physicians, nurse practitioners, dentists, pharmacists, psychologists and chiropractors
- trades, such as carpenters, plumbers and contractors
- education, such as teachers, child care educators and instructors of persons with disabilities
This was the result of an engagement conducted in 2024 regarding labour market needs with the background information available here.
Professional Governance Act to consolidate professional governance legislation from nine separate acts into one
Currently, Alberta Advanced Education administers nine pieces of legislation, supporting 28 regulations that govern 22 professional regulatory organizations. If passed, the Professional Governance Act would consolidate and streamline Advanced Education’s professional governance legislation from nine separate acts into one.
The Professional Governance Act covers professions regulated by Advanced Education, including accountancy, engineering and geoscience, veterinary medicine and architecture, among others. Other regulated professions, such as lawyers, teachers and health professionals, are not included in this legislation. Find out more
Transitional period for updated 2024 OHS Code ends on March 30, 2025
A number of provisions in the OHS Code were updated on December 4, 2024. The changes included updates to Part 27 (Violence and harassment), Part 33 (Explosives), Part 37 (Oil, gas and geothermal energy) and miscellaneous amendments across the OHS Code. Although the December 4 updates came into effect immediately, the Alberta government provided a transitional period during which work site parties could comply with either the updated or the previous provisions. This transitional period will be ending on March 30, 2025. Starting on March 31, 2025, work site parties must comply with the updated OHS Code.
To view the updated OHS Code, visit alberta.ca/occupational-health-and-safety-code. If you have questions about the December 2024 Code updates, please email OHSreview@gov.ab.ca. Resources containing highlights of the legislation changes can be found in the OHS legislation change highlights category on the OHS Resource Portal. Read the March OHS e-News online
Medicine Hat-Cypress News
City completes Municipal Servicing Standards Manual update
An updated Municipal Servicing Standards Manual (MSSM) is now available after City of Medicine Hat development staff completed a refresh of the technical document. This major update is the first refresh completed on the MSSM since December 2015.
The MSSM outlines the minimum specifications required for City infrastructure to inform developers and contractors. When infrastructure is built to support growth in the community, Municipal Servicing Standards ensure that it meets the City’s mandated level of quality. This allows for cost effective maintenance through the lifecycle of new infrastructure.
The purpose for updating this 266-page document was to provide updates and clarity on development and the MSSM use process. These updates have made the document more accessible, readable, and searchable.
View the updated Municipal Servicing Standards Manual on the City of Medicine Hat’s website for more information. The full list of major changes within the updated MSSM can be viewed within Appendix B of the document.
New online Tax Portal & Assessment Notices
The City's new online tax portal provides an easier online option to manage your property taxes. With the new eTax portal, you can:
- Access account information online
- Choose paperless ebilling for your tax notice
- View both your Assessment and Tax notices online
- Make payment online with a credit card (2.4% Administration Fee applies for online payments)
To access the portal, you’ll need your Tax Roll number and Access Code which will be printed on your 2025 Annual Property Tax Notice when they are mailed on May 21, 2025. If you would like to sign up before then, please contact the Customer Care Team to request your new Access Code. Learn more
Please also make sure you are checking your mailbox, as Assessment Notices were mailed March 6th and should already be in your mailbox. Now is the time to review your assessed property value and reach out to our Assessment Department to discuss any concerns. You can even compare the assessed values of other properties by checking out the Assessment Roll or the Assessment Map, both of which can be found at medicinehat.ca/viewmyassessment. Property owners have until May 13 to file an assessment complaint with the Clerk of the Assessment Review Board. Learn more
Brooks-Newell News
Silver Sage Expansion
There are plans to construct an outdoor events arena adjacent to its existing facility and potentially develop a hall in the future. As part of its long-term vision, the Society is exploring an event campground to accommodate visitors and participants. Silver Sage has 16,000 to 20,000 annual visitors and 300 days of activity on the grounds, including:
- 20 multi-day events and 56 calendar days of bookings
- 165 single-day events and rentals
- Arena memberships using the facility on non-booked days
The Society has formally invited a Newell County Councillor to rejoin as a non-voting member to provide insights at monthly meetings. Refer to the March 6 County of Newell Meeting Agenda
Summer Student Job Opportunity with Brooks-Newell Economic Development
If you are a student looking to kickstart your career in Economic Development, the City of Brooks is hiring an Economic Development Summer Student to support business retention and regional growth ensuring economic development in the Brooks Newell Region. Gain hands-on experience while making a real impact. Find out more.
Advocacy in Action
Update on Tariffs and Retaliatory Measures
The Canadian Chamber team is closely tracking the latest developments in the U.S., as well as the various responses to the U.S. tariffs by the Canadian federal and provincial governments. Notably, the Canadian Chamber leadership team was also on the ground in Washington D.C. last week to directly make the case against the U.S. tariffs and meet with partners and policy makers to advocate for the interests of Canadian industry.
We remain very interested in hearing your thoughts and concerns on the latest tariff developments. If you are planning to share your feedback on Canada’s counter tariffs through Finance’s consultation, please also share your feedback with us. Understanding your tariff concerns will help us and the Canadian Chamber ensure that our advocacy is aligned with your priorities. Read the most recent update from March 11
Chinese Ministry of Commerce's decision to impose tariffs
In response to the Chinese Ministry of Commerce's decision to impose tariffs on Canadian Canola oil, oil cakes, pork and aquatic products, the Canadian Chamber has issued a statement expressing concern with the impacts on the Canadian agri-food sector. The clip is available here.
"The Canadian agri-food industry is bracing for two simultaneous trade wars, which will cause widespread job losses across Canada. In response to Canada’s alignment with the U.S. application of tariffs last summer on China’s non-market practices, China chose to impose tariffs on canola oil, canola meal, peas, aquatic products and pork imports from Canada, effective March 20. These measures are punitive and will devastate Canadian agri-food jobs and economic activity, at a time when we can least afford it.
When Canada chose to support its U.S. ally on this, the Canadian Chamber said the country would need to be prepared to support producers penalized by targeted retaliation from China. Our agri-food sector contributes $150 billion to our GDP each year and accounts for 1 in 9 jobs in Canada. The industry is central to our national economic and security interests at home, and is the backbone of thousands of communities across our country. We call on the federal government to support affected producers and work with American and Chinese counterparts toward a resolution."
International Chambers of Commerce urges negotiation over retaliation on trade tariffs
ICC has warned that retaliatory measures against U.S.-imposed tariffs could trigger widespread trade disruptions, harming businesses and local economies. Chambers worldwide, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the Confederation of National Chambers of Commerce, Services, and Tourism in Mexico and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, have raised concerns about escalating tensions. ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton emphasized the need for negotiation over retaliation, calling on governments to uphold a rules-based system to ensure stability in global trade. Read more.
Next Level Events
Coffee & Conversations
Join the Chamber Thursday morning to enjoy coffee and conversations about your business, our business, or life in general! This is a great opportunity to connect in the mornings if your afternoons and evenings are too busy. You can stop by for a quick hello or stay and chat for a while; everyone is welcome!
Thursday, March 20th @ 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
This round, we will see you at Papi's Country Kitchen | 2301 Trans Canada Way SE, Medicine Hat, AB
Managing supply chain risks in 2025
Is your supply chain prepared for potential changes in trade regulations, inflation or geopolitical uncertainties? Join a free webinar from Export Development Canada on Thursday, March 20, 2025, from 11-12 MST to examine:
- Identifying supply chain vulnerabilities
- Managing currency fluctuations and rising costs
- Building agile supply chains by diversifying suppliers and leveraging trade agreements
- Real-world examples of exporters successfully managing supply chain risks
Workforce Economics – Find, Hire, and Keep your Best People
The event features two high impact keynote speakers: Lionel Laroche speaking on Building Cultural Diversity for a Competitive Advantage and Eddie Lemoine speaking on A Journey to Engagement: How to Attract and Retain A Skilled Workforce.
Focused on addressing the region’s most pressing workforce challenges, we invite you to register for this full-day conference designed specifically for employers.
Date: Wednesday, March 26, 2025
Time: 8:00am-3:00pm
Location: Medicine Hat College
The conference will feature industry leaders sharing best practices, guest speakers presenting innovative strategies for talent attraction and retention, and interactive breakout sessions that offer opportunities for collaboration. Plus, our Employment Services Fair will connect you with local organizations offering valuable workforce resources. It’s a great chance to explore how an inclusive and welcoming work environment can drive employee engagement and long-term success. To view the agenda and secure your spot, please register through the link: https://MHED-Workforce-Economics-Workshop.eventbrite.ca
EmpowRise Entrepreneur Training Program
EmpowRise is a dynamic, fully funded program designed to empower Black, Indigenous, and other People of Colour (BIPOC) Entrepreneurs in Alberta. If you are a BIPOC entrepreneur, passionate, seeking mentorship and committed, apply today!
Deadline to register March 31, 2025
Free webinar on health, safety and employment standards for young workers
With the summer employment season approaching and many companies looking to hire students, Alberta OHS and Employment Standards are inviting young workers under 25 years old, their parents or guardians, and employers to a free webinar where they can learn about young worker rights and responsibilities; employer responsibilities in protecting young workers; identifying and controlling workplace hazards young workers might face; helpful resources to support young workers, parents or guardians, and employers.
Young workers face higher risks on the job and are more likely to be injured at work, so this webinar is a crucial opportunity to learn more about improving health and safety knowledge and practices. The webinar will take place on March 25 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. To register or get more details about the topics that will be presented, click here.
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
New Chamber Members
We would like to welcome One Tree Ranching Co, Iron Nation, and Chewie Media Inc. 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!
Cypress Club announced the Cypress Club Preservation Society
The Board of Directors for the Cypress Club announced that the CRA approved the official designation of the Cypress Club Preservation Society as a registered charitable organization, effective January 1, 2025. The Cypress Club holds historic significance in Medicine Hat, having been established as a private social club in 1903 by the ranching and business communities and patterned after the private clubs of Victorian Britain.
For over 120 years, the club has stood the test of time, and this new charitable structure will ensure that the building and the Club will thrive for centuries to come. New legal changes will unite the Cypress Club Preservation Society, and current Club members will automatically belong to the Society, with the ability to issue charitable tax receipts for 50% of the Cypress Club membership dues, with that portion going towards maintaining the historic building. You can find out more at www.cypressclub.ca or by emailing society@cypressclub.ca. Read more
Health & Wellness Event Interest Survey
Are you interested in the health & wellness sector - help us determine interests and needs by taking a few minutes to fill out the following "Heal the Hat": Health & Wellness Event Interest Survey: https://forms.gle/jJRrGMZugSCL9rYm8
This survey will help us understand what businesses in our community want when it comes to creating opportunities and events for the health & wellness sector. Your feedback is invaluable in shaping an event that aligns with your needs and goals.
Please feel free to share this link. Deadline for this survey is April 7
Job Opportunities
Are you looking for a job? These Chamber companies are currently recruiting. Explore the Chamber member listings on our website to discover your next career move or find the perfect addition to your team:
https://chamber.southeastalbertachamber.ca/job-opportunities
Elavon Offer: Receive a $200 statement credit
Sign up for a new payment processing account today and receive a $200 statement credit!
From sales & inventory tracking and business analytics to invoice creation and staff scheduling, we will help you save time and simplify the way you run your business. This great offer ends on April 30, 2025. Visit join.paymentstart.com/cachamber to learn more.
Disclaimer: * To qualify for the promotion, you must sign up for a new payment processing account with Elavon Canada between March 1 and April 30, 2025. Merchant accounts must be activated and actively processing payment transactions by May 15, 2025 for a minimum of one week and be in an open status at the time of the incentive credit. A one-time $200 credit will be applied to your Elavon statement within 90 days after the first deposit date. Limit one credit per customer. Cannot be combined with another offer. Elavon reserves the right in its sole discretion to modify, suspend or terminate the promotion at any time without additional notice. Restrictions may apply. Services provided by Elavon Canada Company. Copyright © 2025 Elavon Canada Company. All rights reserved. Elavon is a trademark in the United States and/or other countries. All rights reserved. All features and specifications are subject to change without notice. This document is prepared by Elavon as a service for its customers. The information discussed is general in nature and may not apply to your specific situation.
Fill Up On Funding
EDC Trade Impact Program
EDC will facilitate an additional $5 billion in support over two years to help eligible companies adjust and adapt to new market uncertainty. The EDC Trade Impact Program’s expanded capacity will apply to a suite of EDC financing and insurance solutions. Whether businesses need working capital to manage existing contracts, potential decreases in sales, or volatility in the Canadian dollar exchange rate, or insurance to protect against the risks associated with supply chains—EDC solutions can help.
Funding that helps your company grow into global markets
Eligible small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can get up to $50,000 to cover 50% of the costs of exporting products or services to countries where they have little or no sales. CanExport funding can help your company expand beyond Canada, unlocking global markets and opportunities to grow your business worldwide. CanExport SMEs is accepting applications for projects taking place in the 2025-2026 fiscal year. To qualify, project expenses must be incurred between April 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026. Find out more
BDC Support to help mitigate Tariffs
As a result of the impacts and broader Canadian response, BDC has announced it will leverage the full force of its financing and advisory services across the country to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) directly impacted by the uncertainty around US tariffs. BDC is:
- delivering a new Pivot to Grow $500 M envelope to provide financing to SMEs financially impacted by the chill effects of potential or imposed US tariffs.
- providing trade resilience consulting solutions to help businesses with their U.S. tariff action plans, focusing on financial management, operational efficiency, and market diversification
- sharing high-value insights and best practices with entrepreneurs through enhanced interactions with clients and partners, including weekly client councils, SME surveys, and deep dive interactions with businesses across the country, in all sectors
- collaborating with governments, the private sector and partners within the ecosystem that support businesses as part of the broader Canadian response
To learn more about what BDC is doing to help, visit BDC’s tariff response page.
Clean Fuels Call for Proposals
The Energy Innovation Program (EIP) – Clean Fuels Call for Proposals (“the Call”) will target research and development, pilot, and demonstration proposals that support the development of sustainable, cost-effective technologies critical to Canada’s leadership in the global clean fuels transition. This Call will invest in the clean fuels value chain, supporting technologies that facilitate production, transport and storage.
The call has two focus areas: Focus area 1: Clean Fuels Production; Focus area 2: Clean Fuels Transport and Storage. To apply, applicants must complete and submit their Expression of Interest (EOI) via the application portal by 1:00 p.m. ET on April 8, 2025. Find out more.
Crossword Puzzle
Crossword Puzzle Answers
Did you figure it out? Here are the answers for the March 11th 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 News
Other Resources
Alberta Economy - Indicators at a Glance
February Economic Trends
2025 March - GDP by expenditure 2023
BDC: How to choose a business loan: 5 factors to consider
BDC: Outlook for Canada’s Creative and Cultural Industries for 2025
BusinessLink: Accessing Grants for Your Small Business
Cyber Security Assessment Tool from MasterCard
Environmental Public Health has resources on Coping with Emergencies
Follow us on social media for up-to-the-minute updates
The Voice: March 18th, 2025
24th Prime Minister Mark Carney: A Call to Action by Chambers, New Gas Reserves Take Canada into Global Top 10, Transitional Period for Updated 2024 OHS Code Ends on March 30th, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News 24th Prime Minister Mark Carney: A Call to Action by Chambers Canada…
Read More The Voice: March 11th, 2025
Commerce Way Officially Approved to Commemorate 125 Years in Business, Budget 2025 (If Passed), increases Grants in Place of Taxes (GIPOT), and Government Review of Land and Property Rights Tribunal (LPRT) all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News COMMERCE WAY OFFICIALLY APPROVED TO COMMEMORATE 125 YEARS IN BUSINESS The Southeast Alberta Chamber…
Read More The Voice: March 4th, 2025
Provincial Legislature Starts Spring Session, Laying the Foundation for Compassionate Intervention, Red Tape Reduction Bill to Further Reduce Regulatory Burdens, and Trade & Tariff Insights, Webinars and Resources all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Provincial Legislature Starts Spring Session This session will see Alberta’s government take action to support the implementation…
Read More