The Voice: February 25th, 2025
Budget 2025 Coming Soon, Passenger Rail in Alberta, MH Council Highlights February 18, and Brooks-Newell Hydrogen Hub Project all in this week's edition of The Voice.
Business News
Budget 2025: Coming soon
Alberta’s government will release Budget 2025 on Thursday, Feb. 27 at the start of the new spring legislative session.
Last year, President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance Nate Horner released Budget 2024: A responsible plan for a growing province, which focused on strengthening health care and education, building safe communities and managing resources wisely.
Over 2023 and 2024, Alberta’s population grew at an unprecedented rate, and it has put intense strain on many of the province’s public services. Budget 2025 will meet the challenge of this strain while helping plan for the future. Read more here
Passenger Rail in Alberta? What does the future hold?
Alberta’s government recognizes the importance of passenger rail for the future of a rapidly growing province. Passenger rail services connected to urban mass transit can shape and strengthen regional transportation systems, connect communities, support jobs and the economy, and improve access to housing. Passenger rail can also enhance the overall transportation network within the province and ensure a safer and more efficient transportation network in Alberta.
Alberta’s Passenger Rail Master Plan, which will be completed by summer 2025, will look forward decades and identify concrete actions that can be taken now as well as in the future to build the optimal passenger rail system for the province.
The Master Plan is assessing the feasibility of passenger rail in the province, including regional (inter-city and high-speed) and commuter services, including examining the feasibility of a system that can be staged and evolve as Alberta grows, including to southern Alberta and other locations throughout Alberta.
You can keep up to date on the latest information on the Master Plan, by continuing to visit the website at Passenger rail | Alberta.ca and take the survey, as well as view current and past engagements here: Passenger rail engagement | Alberta.ca.
Medicine Hat-Cypress News
Council Highlights February 18th, 2025
City Council approved a recommendation to pause the Rural Renewal Stream application intake, with the intention of reviewing its status in January 2026.
City council approved a motion to directs the City Administration to report back to Council by the end of Q2 2025 on the logic, clarity, and fairness of the current transformer replacement process and obligations especially with regard to how the City of Medicine Hat’s policy and/or Bylaw compares with practices of other similar providers in clearly and fairly allocating costs and responsibilities.
City Council approved a motion to direct Administration to include Mustard Seed updates on the Development and Infrastructure, Public Services and Administrative Committee Action Items list. City Council approved a motion to receive item 8.5 Jurisdictional Scan related to the kVA range in the medium commercial class for information.
Related to this item, Councillor Sharps gave a notice of motion to direct administration to provide the potential financial impact to all ratepayers regardless of class by adjusting the medium commercial rates to 50 kVA with and/or a consumption greater than 5,000 kWh. By extension, this would propose making the small commercial classification be defined as those with a demand of up to 49 kVA and a consumption of less than 5,000 kWh per month. And additionally, that Council direct Administration to provide communication options to ratepayers when they exceed the threshold, including consideration of a 60-day grace period to understand and address the factors contributing to their increased consumption. Read this article on their website.
Transportation Master Plan
The Transportation Master Plan and its adjacent transportation strategies lay out the long-term vision for a city’s Transportation network, encompassing comprehensive strategy, initiatives, and infrastructure developments. Join the project team at two upcoming open houses to review and discuss the draft Transportation Master Plan, Active Transportation Strategy and Transportation Safety Strategy. Save the date for drop-in events on Tuesday, March 11 from 4 to 8 p.m. in the Studio Theatre at the Esplanade or Wednesday, March 12 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Centennial Hall at Medicine Hat College. The draft reports of the Transportation Master Plan will be posted to the project site soon.
Building a new home? Make it energy efficient!
Access up to $10,000 under HAT Smart’s New Homes incentive based on the level of energy savings achieved beyond a ‘typical’ new home that is built to the minimum current energy code. New Homes rebates are offered to eligible applicants on a first-come, first-served basis.
Learn more: Hatsmart.ca
City launches standardized evaluation process for capital funding requests
The City of Medicine Hat has released a standardized application and evaluation process to address ad hoc requests for capital funding by community organizations. The City’s primary grant streams are: Family and Community Support Services (FCSS), Community Vibrancy Grants, Microgrants and Major Grants.
The new Capital Grant Application employs an online form to collect consistent information from each organization as a baseline to evaluate against pre-established criteria. An evaluation committee will score the project and present a recommendation to Council for consideration. To review eligibility and evaluation criteria, application guidelines, and to apply, visit medicinehat.ca/grants. Read the news release on the City website.
Brooks-Newell News
Brooks-Newell Hydrogen Hub Project
The County of Newell will oversee the Brooks Newell Hydrogen Hub to introduce hydrogen fuel technology to the region. Phase One will test hydrogen-diesel conversion kits on local vehicles and establish a temporary hydrogen fueling station. If successful, Phase Two will create a permanent hydrogen production and fueling site. The project team has engaged in extensive discussions with various individuals and groups interested in developing a hydrogen economy in Alberta, including local businesses. They are applying for funding from Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA), with support from Premier Smith and Environment Minister Rebecca Schultz. No direct funding is required from the City of Brooks; however, in-kind contributions, such as test vehicles or land for a fuelling station, may be considered. Find out more
Advocacy in Action
Expanding recovery support services in Medicine Hat
Alberta’s government is building the Alberta Recovery Model to increase access to supports focused on prevention, intervention, treatment and recovery. Medicine Hat Recovery College will soon be fully operational with free recovery-focused mental health courses for Albertans to develop resiliency and resourcefulness. With support from Alberta’s government, the Canadian Mental Health Association (Alberta Division) and Centre for Suicide Prevention have partnered with Medicine Hat Family Service to operate the recovery college, which will officially open on March 4th.
For more than a year, recovery college courses have been available in the Medicine Hat region online; this partnership will increase accessibility with both in-person and online options offered within the community. Recovery colleges use an innovative group support model where people in recovery help others build the skills needed to thrive. Find out more about the announcement.
This aligns with the Chamber’s recommendation through the policy adopted in 2021 on Increasing Access to Mental Wellness Workplace Supports, particularly on supporting community-led, collaborative, and entrepreneurial approaches for service delivery and psycho-social education to address early detection, prevention and treatment to avoid duplication and reduce service delivery costs, as well as increase the understanding and importance of developing a system of wellness.
Canadian Chamber to host B7 Summit
The 2025 B7 Summit is set to take place May 14–16 in Ottawa, and this year’s theme is Bolstering Economic Security and Resiliency. As Canada assumes the G7 presidency, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce is honoured to be the official host of the B7 Summit, the leading platform for business engagement within the G7 framework. This year’s discussions will focus on strengthening economic stability, advancing responsible AI, promoting trade, and supporting a business-led energy transition. Find out more
Policy Matters: Why Energy Security Matters
As a country, we can sometimes forget or ignore the fact that much of our prosperity comes from our natural resources and clean energy. Let’s stop waiting for a productivity, trade or weak Loonie crisis to remember that our natural resources are our greatest and most efficient contributor to growth, productivity and wealth. The world wants and needs Canadian energy. To answer their call, we must create an environment that encourages our ability to produce and sell that energy. Achieving this goal will require:
- Achieving greater alignment with all stakeholders — government, industry, and Indigenous communities.
- Making significant changes to the Impact Assessment Act (Bill C-69) to ensure its constitutionality, and work to remove barriers to build critical energy infrastructure.
- Accelerating the approval process for major projects that will diversify market access.
- Working with Indigenous leaders, energy industry and provincial governments to identify projects in the national interest and accelerating the permitting, from construction to operation.
If Canada doesn’t help fill the growing energy needs of other nations, then our competitors — who may not follow the same responsible practices as we do — will step in to fill the gaps. Find out more
Next Level Events
2025 Home & Leisure Tradeshow
We are TWO WEEKS out from the 2025 Home & Leisure Tradeshow!! With over 170 vendors participating in our tradeshow, keep an eye out for Jasper Homes and Funny Farm Canine at the show!
With a diverse array of businesses and something for everyone, we are thrilled to showcase the best products, services, and technologies the region has to offer.
March 7th - 9th | Grab your discounted online tickets here!!
StrikeUP 2025 Webinar
Proudly celebrating its fifth year, StrikeUP 2025 is Canada’s leading digital conference designed to inspire, connect, and support women entrepreneurs. The event features expert keynotes, engaging panels and resource-rich exhibitor booths.
This year’s highlights include Algonquin Elder and Knowledge Keeper Claudette Commanda, who will share a meaningful land acknowledgment and Wendy Curtis, CEO of Nventure and Founder of StrikeUP, will offer insight into the vision behind StrikeUP. We are also honored to be joined by The Honorable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Small Business, who will deliver a special address celebrating the resiliency and impact of women entrepreneurs in Canada.
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 Medicine Hat Sign Works Ltd, The Steaming Cup, and No Frills - Brooks 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!
Elevate Your Clean with SerVantage: Western Canada's Trusted Cleaning Partner
When it comes to commercial cleaning, SerVantage shines as Western Canada’s premier choice. With nearly 50 years of experience, we are proud to be the region's only privately-owned integrated service provider, delivering exceptional cleaning solutions tailored to your needs.
Our versatile services range from building maintenance to health-focused sanitization, ensuring that every corner of your space is not just clean, but also safe and welcoming. We understand the importance of maintaining a pristine environment for your employees and clients alike.
At SerVantage, we believe in building lasting relationships with our clients through outstanding customer service and a commitment to quality. Our eco-conscious cleaning practices reflect our dedication to social responsibility, making us a partner you can trust.
Our team is rigorously trained in the latest cleaning techniques and safety protocols, holding esteemed certifications such as COR and ISSA’s Green Building Standard. This ensures that we not only meet but exceed industry standards for health and safety.
What our current customers are saying about us:
"We are so happy we have switched our cleaning services to Servantage. A difference in the cleanliness was immediately noticeable. Servantage is very professional and one of the best companies for communication and professionalism.”
- Laura Lunge; Office Manager, BGSA Radiology
Are you ready to elevate your cleaning experience? Contact SerVantage today to discover how we can transform your space into a spotless haven. Let us show you why we’re the go-to choice for businesses across Western Canada!
Elavon Offer: No Monthly Equipment Fees for a Year!
Get your equipment fees credited for 1 year* when you establish a new merchant account between January 1 and February 28, 2025.
Our full suite of point-of-sale solutions provide the tools you need to run your business. From inventory management and staff timekeeping to invoicing and business analytics, and so much more. We offer innovative and reliable payment technology that allows you and your customers to feel at ease knowing that your payments are being processed securely.
Disclaimer: * To qualify for the promotion, you must sign up for a new payment processing account with Elavon Canada between January 1 and February 28, 2025. Merchant accounts must be activated and actively processing
payment transactions March 15, 2025 for a minimum of one week and be in an open status at the time of the incentive credit. This promotion is limited to two (2) point-of-sale devices per member. talech Register package rentals are
excluded from the promotion. The twelve-month equipment credit will be applied to the Elavon monthly statement within 90 days of the first deposit date. The value of the twelve-month statement credit will offset the Solution Service fees billed for one year. 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
Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a powerful tool that can help businesses across Canada compete and grow in a global economy. This rapidly evolving technology has the potential to improve how businesses operate, increase productivity and bring benefits to Canadians. To stay at the forefront of this technology, the Government of Canada announced $200 million for AI-powered businesses. This funding, delivered by Canada’s regional development agencies (RDAs) is available in all regions to help bring new AI technologies to market and speed-up AI adoption in critical sectors such as agriculture, clean technology, healthcare and manufacturing. Find out more
Looking to shift your export strategies? Alberta Export Expansion Program (AEEP) accepting applications
The Government of Alberta has made improvements to the Alberta Export Expansion Program (AEEP) to make it easier for small- and medium-sized enterprises and non-profit organizations to promote Alberta exports through international travel to formal outbound trade events. Changes were made to reduce red tape, improve consistency, and clarify program criteria. The revised program is now live and open for applications for travel taking place after April 1, 2024.
Key changes made to make the program more user friendly include:
- only one application post-travel is required, there is no longer a pre-approval review process;
- reimbursement is now based on per diems and base fee event registration costs; and
- digital signature and electronic payment processes are built in to increase efficiency.
Other changes to the program include:
- a maximum amount of CAD $15,000 per organization per funding year;
- requiring attendance at a formal international trade event, such as conferences, trade shows and conventions;
- raising the minimum gross annual sales requirement for eligibility from CAD $50,000 to CAD $250,000 to better focus support for export-ready companies; and
- only providing funding for outbound missions.
Although you will no longer need pre-approval, you are encouraged to complete the self-assessment survey, which can be found on the website, to gauge your eligibility. For more information, please take a look at the new program guidelines and fact sheet.
Crossword Puzzle
Crossword Puzzle Answers
Did you figure it out? Here are the answers for the February 18th 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 Resources
Alberta Economy - Indicators at a Glance
Labour Market Notes - Soft Start to 2025
Stop Housing Delays: Report red tape issues that are delaying housing development
BDC 5 habits to improve efficiency and profitability in your business
BDC How to Grow Your Small Business: A Guide for Entrepreneurs
BDC 6 steps to create your company’s financial plan
Finding and Hiring Employees (BusinessLink)
Other Events
BDC Entrepreneur's Learning Centre – Online | Register
BusinessLink Digital Marketing Program – booking into March | Find out more
Free Training for the Building Industry: Various Courses up to May 29, 2025 | Register
March 12 | Start Up Women Funding Your Vision: Accessing Grants in Canada | Register
Useful Links
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The Voice: February 25th, 2025
Budget 2025 Coming Soon, Passenger Rail in Alberta, MH Council Highlights February 18, and Brooks-Newell Hydrogen Hub Project all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Budget 2025: Coming soon Alberta’s government will release Budget 2025 on Thursday, Feb. 27 at the start of the new spring legislative session. Last year, President of…
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Read More The Voice: February 11th, 2025
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