ChamberAwards ofDistinction
FROMLOCALSTRENGTHTOGLOBALIMPACT
The Awards of Distinction honour the remarkable achievements of our local business community. This premier evening features the presentation of awards across multiple categories, celebrating the vision, creativity, and dedication that drive Northwest Alberta forward.
Alongside the awards presentations, hear from a panel of local industry experts representing the Agricultural industry — as they share perspectives on resilience, opportunity and growth in our region.
Join us for an evening of celebration, conversation, and inspiration as we spotlight the accomplishments of our nominees and award recipients.
UPCOMING RIBBON CUTTING
WED, OCT 01 | 4:00PM
EZ BRYZ BOOKKEEPING & TAX SERVICES
Ribbon Cutting - EZ BRYz Bookkeeping & Tax Services
TheGrandePrairie&DistrictChamberof Commerceispleasedtocelebrateand participateintheofficialribboncuttingfor EzBryzBookkeepinginWembley.This celebrationhighlightsagrowingbusiness dedicatedtosupportinglocal entrepreneurswithaccurate,reliable, andstress-freebookkeepingsolutions.
9831 - 97 Street, Grande Prairie, AB
Our Most Recent Event!
AnotherWorkshop.AnotherFullHouse.
Yesterday’sWorkshopYourBusinesssessionFuture-ProofYourBusiness:BuildingResilience andGrowthwithHollySorgenfromCommunity FuturesGrandePrairie&Regionwasasuccess!
Hollyisatalentedspeakerwhomakescomplex topicseasytounderstand.Fromdiversifying differentaspectsofyourbusinesstofindingtool integrationthatboostefficiency,attendees walkedawaywithpracticalstrategiesandfresh ideastostrengthentheirbusinessesforthelong term.
AhugethankyoutoHollyforsharingher expertiseandtoeveryonewhojoinedusfor anotherengagingsession!
ALBERTA CALLED: A Bold New Push to Attract Skilled Talent to NW Alberta
WORKNWALBERTA–aworkforcedevelopmentinitiativeofTheCityofGrandePrairie,TheCountyofGrande Prairie, Municipal District of Greenview, Grande Prairie and District Chamber of Commerce and Northwestern Polytechnic-hasofficiallylaunchedALBERTACALLED,adynamicnewadcampaignaimedatattractingskilled workerstotheGrandePrairie–Greenviewcorridor.Runningthruthesummerandfall,thisregionaleffortbuilds onthesuccessoftheprovince’saward-winningAlbertaisCallingcampaignandshiftsfromawarenesstoaction —connectingworkerswithhigh-demandopportunitiesinourgrowingindustries.
The campaign spotlights current job openings for truck drivers, mechanics, and plant operators—critical roles that are essential to our energy, transportation, and industrial sectors. As the campaign evolves, ad copy and creativewillberefreshedtoreflectshiftinglabourforcepriorities,withthepotentialtohighlightotherhigh-need vocations such as nurses, teachers, and skilled trades. Through targeted outreach in Alberta, Ontario, and British Columbia, ALBERTA CALLED showcases not only the career potential in NW Alberta but also the exceptionallifestyletheregionoffers.
To reach the right talent, the campaign is running across Rogers Sports Media platforms (including digital, podcasts, and geotargeted content), along with Meta and LinkedIn. It also drives traffic to worknwalberta.ca, a hubwherejobseekerscanexplorerealopportunitiesandlearnmoreaboutlifeintheregion.
Wanttogetinvolved?It’seasy.
·Follow,like,andshareALBERTACALLEDcontentonyoursocialchannels
·PostyourjobopeningstoIndeed(automaticallyintegratedwithworknwalberta.ca)
·Amplifythemessageinyourownrecruitmentandpromotionefforts
Let’s work together to fill the roles that power our communities. Alberta Called—Grande Prairie- Greenview answers.
Fordetailsormaterials,contact:info@worknwalberta.ca
Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance
CHAMBER MEMBERS HAVE ACCESS TO CANADA'S LARGEST EMPLOYEE BENEFITS PLAN TARGETED TO SMALL-TO-MEDIUM SIZED BUSINESS.
Operating since the early 1970s, Chambers Plan now provides coverage to over 30,000 firms like yours. Regardless of the size of your organization Chambers Plan can be customized to meet your needs,requestafreequotetodayandletusshowyouhowwecan customizeaplanforyou.
Established
Your firm's rates will remain stable regardless of claims history. Additionally, Chambers Plan Group Health Insurance is noncancelable due to any claims experienced by your firm. Your companywillneverbesingledoutforarateincrease,ever.
Local
Your business is unique, so your business needs unique coverage. That is why a local Chambers Plan advisor administers your employee health benefits plan. A Chambers Plan advisor is a member of your community. Whether you want to add dental coverage,changeorupdate,orsimplyaskaquestion,youradvisor isthereforyou.
Customizable
Coverage can be tailored to suit your needs. Customize your plan selecting from a wide range of coverage – life, health, dental, disability, critical illness and much more! As well, Chambers Plan membershaveaccesstomy-benefits®anonlinemanagementtool. Thistoolallowsyoutoadministeryourplananywhere,anytime.
Local Agent - Cam Neil
Neil & Associates 10715-102 Street Grande Prairie Website: https://neilandassociates. ca
AtNeil&Associates,webelieve you deserve the best when it comes to group insurance— personalized service from a team of advisors and support staff who live and work right hereinyourcommunity.Asyour local provider of the Chamber Plan, we offer affordable, flexible, and stable benefits designed specifically for small andmedium-sizedbusinesses.
Whether you’re looking for comprehensive coverage for your team or just starting to explore your options, our experts are here to guide you every step of the way. Get the best deal on insurance and peaceofmindforyourbusiness —contact Neil & Associates today!
Getting the job done for Albertans: Economic resilience
PremierDanielleSmithhasissuedanewsetofmandate letters focused on growing Alberta’s economy, improvingtradeandcreatingjobs.
Alberta’s Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration
JosephSchow,MinisterofForestryandParksToddLoewen, Minister of Tourism and Sport Andrew Boitchenko and MinisterofArts,CultureandStatusofWomenTanyaFirhave been tasked with promoting Alberta’s industries, driving investment,creatingjobsandincreasingprosperityforpeople wholiveinAlberta.
The new mandate letters are focused on delivering the programs and supports that matter to Albertans, Alberta companies, workers and the economy, while maintaining Albertaasthebestplacetolive,workandraiseafamily.
Through the commitments outlined in each mandate letter, Alberta’s ministers will deliver results, strengthen communities and build a future rooted in prosperity, opportunityandresponsiblegovernance.
County Launches New Grant Program to Support Local Business Growth Through Technology Infrastructure
TheCountyofGrandePrairiehas launchedanewBusinessRetention andExpansionGrant–Infrastructure Technology,aimedatsupportingsmallandmedium-sizedCountybusinesses byhelpingthemupgradeinfrastructurerelatedtechnologytodrivegrowthand innovation.
Thegrantprovidesatotalof$26,000in annualfunding.Eligiblebusinessescan applyformatchingfundingstarting October11,2025,ofupto$2,000per yeartoassistwithtechnology-related infrastructureimprovements.Projects mayincludeenhancementssuchas broadbandupgrades,point-of-sale systems,industrialautomation,and othercriticaldigitaltools.Applications willbereviewedonafirst-come,firstservedbasisuntiltheannualfundingis fullyallocated.
Businessesinterestedcanvisit www.middleofeverywhere.ca/business grantorcontacttheEconomic Developmentdepartmentformore informationoneligibilityandapplication requirementsatecdev@countygp.ab.ca
Celebrate Small Business Week 2025 with Business Link
Celebrate Small Business Week 2025 with Business Link, October 20–24. Join us for in-person events in Edmonton and Calgary, plus free online webinars all week long. Hear inspiringentrepreneurstories,growyournetwork,andgain practicalbusinessinsights.
RegisterToday
Curious How ChatGPT Can Transform Your Marketing?
JoinusonSeptember18at11a.m.forafreewebinaranddiscover howAIcanhelpyousavetime,sparkideas,andstrengthenyour brand.LearnpracticalwaystouseChatGPTforcontentcreation, brainstorming,andmore—guidedbytheexpertsatNine10.
RegisterToday
Turn Challenges into Opportunities with Design Thinking
Join us on September 25 at 11 a.m. for a free webinar with Musap Abdelhag. Discover how design thinking can help small businesses spark creativity, solve challenges, and drivesustainablegrowthwithtoolsyoucanstartusingright away.
ReadHere
Member ExclusiveDeals
Service Plus Grande Prairie
BothhotelsareconvenientlylocatedofftheHighway43Bypassonthe AlaskaHighway.Greatlocationforshopping,diningandentertainment.
Forbusinessorpleasure,wearetheplacetostay.
Usecode:GPChamber24 foradiscountedratewhenbooking
Booktoday1.888.875.4667
Best Western Plus West Edmonton
Conveniently located off Highway 2, our West Western Plus West Edmonton hotel is just 3min from West Edmonton Mall and just minutes from local attraction. With comfortable and convenient amenities, our hotel is the perfect choice for business and leisure travellersalike.
Usecode:CHAMBER for15%offallGrandePrairieChamberMembers
Kit Office Plus
10% off office furniture assembled or unassembled in our Grande PrairieShowroomorPeaceRiverStore
10% off unassembled furniture off our website, delivered to our ShowroominGP
Custom plans for stationary, office supply and janitorial. They can look at our website for options. For up to 20 of their most used SKU’s, we setup an account for them and offer the best price possible on those 20 items then full price after that. Great for schoolsaswell.
Please email gpsales@kitofficeplus.com or use in store/showroomcustomplanmustbeanemailtooksanam@kitofficeplus.com
Chamber Member Spotlight!
Advantage Bookkeeping & Business Consulting
Celebrating 16 Years of Empowering Local Businesses
This summer, Advantage Bookkeeping & Business Consulting celebrated 16 years of supporting small and medium-sized businesses in our region. What began as a bookkeeping service has grown into a trusted partner for entrepreneurs, providing not only full-service bookkeeping but also Certified Business and Executive Coaching tailored to the unique challengesofSMEs.
Overtheyears,Advantagehasbecomeknownfor helping business owners gain clarity and confidence in their financial and leadership decisions. Most recently, the firm launched CFO Advisory Services powered by proprietary software. This new offering provides business leaders with access to strategic financial leadership—without the commitment of hiring a full-time CFO. The results speak for themselves: improved decision-making, stronger cash flow, greater profitability, and a clear roadmap for sustainablegrowth.
At the heart of Advantage’s mission is a simple but powerful purpose: to empower SME leaders to build sustainable, scalable businesses. Through expert bookkeeping, business coaching, and executive mentoring, they help entrepreneurs cut through the overwhelm, take control of their numbers, and lead with clarity. Whether it’s navigating spreadsheets or overcoming decision fatigue, Advantage is there as a strategic partner to help businesses grow stronger.
As part of their ongoing commitment to the business community, Advantage also offers free seminars, paid workshops, and a complimentary one-hour coaching session designed to help business owners address their most pressing challenges.
To learn more about Advantage Bookkeeping & Business Consult and their services, visit www.bigbizgrowth.com.
Grande
Alberta
“Behind every strong community is a network of resilient, passionate local businesses..”
PureLife Cleaning & Maintenance
Joined:September19,2025
We’re excited to welcome Rana Al-Slaa and PureLife Cleaning and Maintenance to our Chamber network! Looking forward to seeing this dedicated local business continue to shineandmakeanimpactinourcommunity.
Prairie Pals Play Cafe
Joined:September02,2025
We’re excited to welcome Stephanie KingandPrairiePalsPlayCafetoour Chambernetwork!Welookforwardto seeing this creative space grow and provide a fun, engaging place for familiesinourcommunity.
TheJobBoard
Lookingforatrustedlocalbusinesstogetajobdone?Whetheryouneedprofessionalservices,skilledtrades, marketinghelp,orbusinesssupport,ourChamberMemberClassifiedshelpconnectyouwiththerightproviders fromournetwork!
IndigenousCommunityEngagementand RecruitmentCoordinator
Thisroleisresponsibleforleadinginitiativesthat increasethenumberofFirstNations,Inuit,andMetis medicalstudentsintheNorthernAlbertaMedical Program(NAMP)inGrandePrairie.Thisisaregionally focusedrolewherethesuccessfulcandidatewillbe instrumentalinbuildingandsustainingmeaningful relationshipswithIndigenouscommunities.
Learnmore: https://apps.ualberta.ca/careers/posting/2736
CurriculumAdministrator(Electives)GrandePrairie
Theprimaryresponsibilityofthispositionisthe comprehensiveadministrationandsupportofthe electivesportfolioandotherkeycurricularcomponents
Learnmore: https://apps.ualberta.ca/careers/posting/2724
StandardizedPatientProgram.
TheNorthernAlbertaMedicalProgram(NAMP)in GrandePrairieiscurrentlyrecruitingindividualsto participateinourStandardizedPatientProgram.This opportunityallowsyoutohelpmedicalstudentsdevelop essentialcommunicationandclinicalskillsbyrole-playing aspatientsinsimulatedscenarios.
LearnmoreabouttheNAMPStandardizedPatient Programandsignuphere
TheNorthernAlbertaMedicalProgramis hiringayr2Administrator
TheNorthernAlbertaMedicalProgramisseekinga CurriculumAdministratorforyr2tojointheteam.
ThepositionisbasedoutoftheNWPHealthEducation CentreattheGrandePrairieRegionalHospital.
Fulldetailsandpostinghere: https://apps.ualberta.ca/careers/posting/2674
TheCountyofGrandePrairieBusinessSupportNetworkPresentstheWORKNOWJobFair
JointheCountyofGrandePrairieBusinessSupportNetworkfortheupcomingWORKNOWJobFair —anexcitingopportunitytoconnectemployerswithlocaltalentandregionalbusinesssupports
Thiscost-effectiveeventisagreatwaytomeetpotentialemployees,collaboratewithother businesses,andlearnfrommembersoftheBSNSteeringCommitteeandWorkNorthwestteams..
Don’tmissoutonthiscosteffectiveopportunitytosecureyourworkforce
➡ Clickheretoregister
TPM Reinforced in new mandate
Premier Smith’s new mandate letter to Minister Joseph Schow emphasized cross-ministerial collaboration under theAlbertaJobsStrategy.Akeydirectiveistostrengthen employerparticipationinworkforcedevelopmentthrough theco-developmentofatalentpipelinemodelinAlberta.
This reinforces and aligns with the work the Alberta Chambers of Commerce is leading through the Talent DevelopmentTaskForceandtheimplementationofTPM — ensuring workforce development starts with employer needs and better aligns education and training to businessdemand.
MandateLetter
AlbertaJobsStrategy
DavidFinchInterview-CalgaryEyeopener
Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) accepting
applications!
BusinessesinAlberta,Saskatchewan,andManitoba can now apply for the Regional Tariff Response Initiative—anationalprogramsupportingbusinesses facingglobaltradedisruptions.
WorkFirst Alberta
TheAlbertagovernmentisinvesting$185MinWorkFirst Alberta, a new program offering workshops, reskilling, and career supports for job seekers, while giving employers tools to find and retain talent. Supports will expand for Albertans facing barriers, with added serviceslikechildcareandtransportation.
Learnmore EmployerToolkit
New agency to build affordable homes
Canada’s government has launched Build Canada Homes,anewfederalagencydedicatedtotacklingthe housing crisis by building affordable, supportive, and transitional housing at scale. Backed by an initial $13 billion investment, the agency will leverage federal lands, modern construction methods, and publicprivate partnerships to double housing construction, protect rental units, and expand options for low- and middle-incomeCanadians.
Learnmore
Our Statements on the Launch of CUSMA Consultations
Lastweek,theOfficeoftheU.S.TradeRepresentativelaunchedthe U.S. consultation on CUSMA — an important milestone on the path to the 2026 CUSMA review. A few days later, the Government of CanadaopenedasecondphaseofpublicconsultationonCUSMA
“CUSMAistooimportanttoourprosperity—andtoNorthAmerica’s global competitiveness — to allow it to unravel,” said our President andCEO,CandaceLaing,inastatement.
ReadOurStatementonU.S.Consultation
ReadOurStatementonCanadianConsultation
Our Statement on Canada‒Mexico Strategic Partnership Agreement
Last week, Canada and Mexico signed a pact to deepen economic andsecurityties.
“As America’s biggest customers, a resilient partnership between Canada and Mexico puts us in a stronger position to ensure that the 2026 CUSMA review produces outcomes that are beneficial for businesses in all three countries,” said Catherine Fortin-LeFaivre, SeniorVicePresident,InternationalPolicyandGlobalPartnerships,in arecentstatement.
ReadOurStatement
In the Gripping Drama That Is the Trade War, Act Three Is the One to Watch
Inanewop-edfortheFinancialPost,MatthewHolmes,ChiefofPublic Policy,writesthat“ifthetradewarwiththeU.S.isathree-actplay,then our best hope for resolution will come in the third act: the CUSMA review.”
ReadtheOp-Ed
EVEN MORE RESOURCES
Free Upcoming Events
Future Skills for Innovation in Canada's Mining, Oil and Gas Industries
Canada’s mining and oil & gas industries are changing fast, creating new skill demands and talent gaps. Join us to explore early research findings on technology adoption, workforce needs, and how to strengthen talent pipelines in thesevitalsectors.
Monday,September29,2025
1:00pm-2:30pmEST
Reserveyourspotnow
Forecasting Skills Supply: A Career-Centric Approach to Labour Market Models
Accurate skills forecasting is key to effective workforce planning, but many models fall short. Join us as we explore what’sworking,what’smissing,andhowtoimproveforecastingusingdemographicandeducationaltrends.
Thursday,October2,2025
1:00-2:00pmEST
Reserveyourspotnow
City of Grande Prairie Receives 2025 Minister’s Award
City of Grande Prairie Receives 2025 Minister’s Award for Red Tape Reduction and Service Delivery Enhancement
TheCityofGrandePrairieproudlyacceptedthe2025Minister’s AwardforMunicipalExcellenceattheCityCouncilmeetingheld September8,2025forworkdonetostreamlinethedevelopment permittingprocess.
The City won in the Red Tape Reduction or Service Delivery Enhancement award category for streamlining the permitting process by consolidating three separate applicationsdevelopment permit, building permit, and civil site work - into a single,unifiedapplicationandmovingtoadigitalplatform.
This transformation simplifies the user experience, reduces duplication, and accelerates processing times. By enabling concurrent review of all components, the City has significantly improved efficiency, reduced red tape, and enhanced clarity for applicants - demonstrating a strong commitment to innovation andresponsiveservicedelivery.
ReadFullArticle
City Grants and Scholarships available
TheCityofGrandePrairieisaccepting applicationsfortheCommunityImprovement GrantandthePursuitofExcellence Scholarships,bothdesignedtobuildqualityof life,inspirelocaltalentandcreate opportunitiesacrossthecommunity.
“TheCityisproudtoinvestininitiativesthat notonlyimproveinfrastructurebutalso strengthencommunityhealthand sustainability,”saidGrandePrairieMayor JackieClayton.
Thedeadlinetoapplyforallprogramsis October1,2025.
Interestedindividualsandorganizationscan findeligibilitydetailsandapplicationformsat: cityofgp.com/funding.
ENERGY INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
Things you may have missed this week!
B.C. NATURAL GAS PRODUCERS SPENT $10.8B IN SUPPLY CHAIN EXPENDITURES ACROSS THE PROVINCE FROM 2018 TO 2024
TheCanadianAssociationofPetroleumProducers(CAPP)todayannouncedthe releaseoftheiTOTEMAnalyticsreport,NaturalGasBuildsB.C.:A2022–2024 UpdateonB.C.NaturalGasSupplyChainandCommunityContributions.The reportshowsnaturalgassupplychainspendinginBritishColumbiahasgrown since2018,demonstratingthegrowingeconomicandsocialcontributionsofthe naturalgassectorandreinforcingitsroleasacornerstoneoftheprovincial economy.
ReadFullArticle
Grande Prairie, Alberta
