The 16th Annual Growing the North Conference brought together business leaders, elected officials, and changemakers from across the Peace Region for two days of engaging conversations, powerful keynote presentations, and meaningful networking.
With a strong lineup of speakers and panels, this year’s conference focused on innovation, resilience, and collaboration across sectors. From economic diversification to rural development, attendees left with insights they can take back to their organizations and communities.
Thank you to all our sponsors, partners, speakers, and attendees who helped make GTN 2025 a success. We’re already looking ahead to 2026—stay tuned!
From the Editors
Welcome to the Chamber Connection—your monthly pulse on the people, businesses, and initiatives that shape our region.
This issue blends the best of both worlds: Chamber updates, community highlights, and the latest offerings from our member businesses—all in one convenient (and flip-through friendly!) spot. Whether you're here to catch up on upcoming events, discover new local services, or just browse what your fellow members are up to, there's something in here for everyone
We’re proud to celebrate the strength, creativity, and resilience of our business community—and we hope this publication keeps you informed, inspired, and connected.
Thanks for reading, and as always, we’d love to hear from you.
Communications & Advocacy
Marketing & Promotions
CHAMBER Welcomes new CEO
Introducing Wendy Bosch Thomas
The Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce is pleased to welcome Wendy Bosch Thomas as Chief Executive Officer.
Bosch has most recently been Executive Director of the Grande Prairie Downtown Association, a position she held for six years.
“I look forward to working with our business community and stakeholders to support sustainable growth and retention within the region. Small business is the foundation of employmentandeconomy.”
Bosch was also a member of Grande Prairie City Council since being elected in 2021.
"I am honored to join the Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce, known for its commitment to excellence through business support, advocacy, education, community connectionsandengagement."
Grande Prairie Chamber Chair Jon Anderson says the Board is looking forward to working with Bosch.
“The Board and I are pleased to have Wendy joining the organization as the new CEO. Her extensive experience in addition to her community ties will serve the Chamber and ourcommunitywell.”
$40
WorkShop Your Business
Click to Convert: Boost SEO and Drive Online Sales
What’s in Store?
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) isn’t just for tech experts—it’s a powerful tool every business owner should understand. In this session, we’ll walk through the building blocks of effective SEO strategy and how to use them to drive real online results.
From understanding search intent to optimizing your site structure and content, this session will give you practical strategies to boost visibility, attract the right audience, and convert clicks into customers. This workshop is ideal for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and marketers looking to improve their digital presence and compete online.
What You’ll Learn
The 3 major SEO factors: domain age, content, and backlinks
How to identify and understand your target audience’s location and search intent
Keyword research fundamentals: analyzing search volume, difficulty, and your competitors
How to develop content that ranks—page structure, meta data, image optimization, and AI do’s & don’ts
Strategies to get your pages indexed and build off-page credibility through backlinks and social posting
BONUS: A quick look at Google Ads for businesses ready to boost results with pay-to-play
THUR, JUNE 12 | 3:00PM
MARY BROWNS CHICKEN
9910 92 Street, Unit 103, Grande Prairie, AB T8X 0E7
Ribbon Cutting - Mary Browns Cobblestone
Please join us for a Ribbon Cutting celebrating the rebranding of Mary Browns Chicken
The full event will run from 2pm-4pm
The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony will take place at 3:00pm.
Big things are breaking ground!
We joined the team behind Maskwa Medical Center as they officially broke ground on what will soon be an exciting addition to our region’s healthcare landscape.
This new facility marks a major step forward in accessible care and specialized services for our community—and we can’t wait to see it open its doors.
Congratulations to everyone involved in making this vision a reality. Stay tuned for more updates as construction progresses!
Our Last Event!
Another Workshop. Another Full House.
May 14th’s Workshop Your Business session with RyanBlaisfromNine10Inc.wasahit!
The room was fully engaged—pens flying, heads nodding, and plenty of “aha” moments as we explored branding and how to integrate AI into business and daily life. Ryan delivered practical insights without the overwhelm, making a complex topicfeelaccessibleandactionable.
A huge thank you to Ryan and everyone who attended!
Connecting Alberta's Workforce with Opportunity
Work N’ Work Alberta is a powerful platform designed to bridge the gap between employers and job seekers across the province. By offering tailored solutions for both businesses and individuals, Work N' Work Alberta is committed to fostering economic growth and making workforce connections easier. Whether you're an employer looking to hire or an individual seeking your next opportunity, this platform streamlines the process and helps you find the perfect match.
Learn more about how Work N’ Work Alberta can help your business or career today! Click here to explore.
Fueling Innovation & Business Growth in the Peace Region
The Grande Prairie Regional Innovation Network (GPRIN) is dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs, startups, and businesses by providing the resources, mentorship, and connections needed to drive innovation and success. Whether you're developing a new product, scaling your business, or looking for expert guidance, GPRIN supports local innovators through funding opportunities, networking, and business development services.
Discover how GPRIN can help take your ideas to the next level! Learn more here.
Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance
CHAMBER MEMBERS HAVE ACCESS TO CANADA'S LARGEST EMPLOYEE BENEFITS PLAN TARGETED TO SMALLTO-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, request a free quote today and let us show you how we can customize a plan for you.
Established
Local Agent - Cam Neil
Your firm's rates will remain stable regardless of claims history. Additionally, Chambers Plan Group Health Insurance is non-cancelable due to any claims experienced by your firm. Your company will never be singled out for a rate increase, 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, change or update, or simply ask a question, your advisor is there for you.
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 members have access to my-benefits® an online management tool. This tool allows you to administer your plan anywhere, anytime.
Neil & Associates 10715-102 Street Grande Prairie Website: https://neilandassociates. ca
At Neil & Associates, we believe you deserve the best when it comes to group insurance— personalizedservicefromateam ofadvisorsandsupportstaffwho live and work right here in your community. As your local provideroftheChamberPlan,we offer affordable, flexible, and stable benefits designed specifically for small and medium-sizedbusinesses.
Whether you’re looking for comprehensivecoverageforyour team or just starting to explore youroptions,ourexpertsarehere to guide you every step of the way. Get the best deal on insurance and peace of mind for your business—contact Neil & Associatestoday!
SECTION PURPOSE:
This page is designed to create an interactive business knowledge hub where members can ask industry-related questions, and fellow Chamber members can share their expertise.
Whether you're looking for marketing advice, HR solutions, financial insights, or operational tips, this is your chance to tap into the wealth of knowledge within our business community.
Have a question? Submit it now and get the answers you need from your business community!
Business After 5 Mixer
Chrenek Dion & Associates of RBC Dominion Securities
The Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce is excited to welcome our members and invited guests to an upcoming Business After 5 Mixer hosted by Chrenek Dion & Associates of RBC Dominion Securities.
This after-hours networking event is the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow business professionals in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Join us for an engaging evening featuring complimentary appetizers, refreshments, and a chance to win some great door prizes!
Whether you're looking to grow your network, learn more about the services offered by Chrenek Dion & Associates, or just enjoy a casual evening among peers, this Mixer offers the best of all worlds. Come discover the value of relationship-building in business, and hear from the team at RBC Dominion Securities about how they are helping clients reach their financial goals.
Don't miss out—mark your calendar, bring your business cards, and get ready for a fantastic evening of conversation and connection!
For questions or more information, please contact the office at (780) 532-5340 or email info@gpchamber.com. There is no cost to attend but registration is required for catering and capacity purposes.
Never Miss an Event!
Stay ahead of the game and never miss an opportunity to connect, learn,andgrow!
Our Events Calendar is your go-to resource for upcoming networking mixers, business workshops, and signatureChamberevents.
Whether you're looking to expand your network, gain valuable insights, or showcase your business, we have somethingforeveryone.
Check it out today and mark your calendar—you won’t want to miss what’scomingnext!
WORK NW ALBERTA Industry/Talent Insights Luncheon June 5, 2025 | 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM Centre 2000, Grande Prairie
Join WORK NW ALBERTA for an exclusive luncheon and presentation by DELOITTE, unveiling key research on:
• In-demand industries and vocations in the Grande Prairie–Greenview corridor
• Workforce trends, salary and wage projections
• Strategic insights to support your hiring and workforce planning
Presented by: WORK NW ALBERTA — a partnership of the City of Grande Prairie, County of Grande Prairie, Municipal District of Greenview, Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce and Northwestern Polytechnic — committed to supporting regional talent attraction and workforce sustainability.
Mark your calendar to RSVP by May 26 as space is limited. Full invitation to follow! info@worknwalberta.ca
What’s next? Help entrepreneurs overcome uncertainty—free webinar and newsletter
Many entrepreneurs are worried about the economic fallout of tariffs on their business and the uncertainty it is causing. BDC is committed to supporting entrepreneurs and continues to provide them with tools, resources and events.
As we work together to help them stabilize and find new opportunities for their business, we would like to share our next webinar as well as our monthly business advice newsletter to make it accessible to your organization and members. Webinar
What’s next? Business strategies to overcome uncertainty May 28, 2025 | 12 p.m. (ET)
Upcoming live webinars on employment standards
Employment standards legislation sets out the rights and obligations of employers and employees in Alberta. These include the minimum standards that employers must provide to their employees.
Employment Standards webinars (including live Q&A) are scheduled for the following topics:
Temporary Foreign Worker Advisory Office – TFW and Employer Rights and Responsibilities (May 28 at 1:30 PM)
Overview of Employment Standards in Alberta (May 29 at 1:30 PM)
For more information, or to register for one of the sessions, visit alberta.ca/employmentstandards-webinars. To request a presentation for your company or organization, please email EOP.Presentations@gov.ab.ca
Staying Ahead in an Ever-Changing Digital World
Businesses are increasingly collecting and retaining data, and they have a public responsibility and legal obligation to safeguard this data. Overwhelming incident response costs and confusing legislative requirements make it difficult for businesses to overcome the fallout of a privacy breach without the assistance of a trusted cyber insurance broker and market.
Part 1 and 2 of this informational session will focus on the aspects of your business that are vulnerable to a cyber attack, best practices to manage and mitigate this risk, what is covered under a comprehensive, standalone cyber policy, as well as tailored claims scenarios and breach response guidelines.
Event details:
Date: May 21, 2025
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. Via Zoom – Register here
Looking ahead to the next sessions in the series: Part 2: June 18, 2025
Have your say on Upper Smoky land use
Albertans are invited to provide input on the draft Upper Smoky SubRegional Plan and regulatory details for Alberta.
Located in west-central Alberta, the Upper Smoky covers more than 13,000 square kilometres south of Grande Prairie. It contains rolling hills, mountains, forests and glacial valleys, with a wide range of wildlife calling it home. Every day, the area is used for many activities, including energy, forestry, recreation and traditional Indigenous land use. Landuse planning will help direct what activities take place in the future across this unique area.
Alberta’s government has developed a draft sub-regional plan, along with associated regulatory details, based on discussions with residents, Indigenous communities, local governments, industry and others. All Albertans are invited to have their say and help determine how land in the Upper Smoky should be used.
Sub-regional plans help provide opportunities for Albertans to work and play, improve the overall landscape and enable Indigenous traditional land uses. Part of the Upper Smoky plan includes work to restore caribou habitat, which is a specialized activity that helps create local jobs. The draft plan also identifies conservation areas and potential direction for forestry, grazing, recreation, energy development, tourism and many other activities.
The plan is not final, and the content proposed in the draft materials is designed to help generate input and detailed feedback from those most impacted. Public engagement runs until June 25 and can be completed online.
The input from Albertans will be used to finalize the plan and ultimately, support economic growth, environmental stewardship and strong communities in the Upper Smoky sub-region.
Alberta’s government will continue working with Indigenous communities and organizations, local governments, industry and others as the Upper Smoky sub-regional plan is finalized and then implemented.
Related information
Upper Smoky Sub-Regional Plan engagement
Sub-regional planning engagements
South Saskatchewan regional planning
Crisis Management and Business Continuity
The County of Grande Prairie Business Support Network is please to host Community Futures Executive Director Holly Sorgen as she delivers a workshop for Crisis Management and Business Continuity for Small Businesses.
Disasters can strike without warning— wildfires, ice storms, pandemics, and more. The real question is: can your business continue to operate when it does?
Join us for an interactive session focused on crisis management and business continuity planning.
Space is limited for this workshop so register early to ensure that you save your seat.
Additional information and registration can be found on our Eventbrite page here:
2025 Chamber Golf Scramble presented by Pomeroy Lodging
REGISTRATION OVER HALF FULL!
Thursday, August 21, 2025 Grande Prairie Golf R Country Club
Join us for our 2025 Chamber Golf Scramble presented by Pomeroy Lodging!
Exclusive Member event - Chamber Members and invited guests only.
Your registration Includes: 18 Holes of Golf with Cart Texas Scramble - a format for ANY skill level! Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Prizes, Fun and Laughs
Cost: $185 + GST per Player
Date: August 21, 2025
Location: Grande Prairie Golf R Country Club
Registration starts at 8:00 AM, shot gun start at 10:00 AM Register as an individual, as a pair, or as a team of four!
Support Our Prize Table!
We’re inviting our members to contribute to our Chamber Golf Scramble prize table! Gift cards make for easy, flexible team prizes (ideal: 4 per team, valued at $25–$50 each), but we also welcome promotional items, swag, or anything fun you'd like to contribute.
To donate, fill out our quick form here: PRIZE FORM Drop-off or pickup details will be arranged after submission.
Want to showcase your business on the course?
Sponsorship opportunities are NEARLY SOLD OUT! To learn more, reach out to Leah at the Chamber office by phone at 780-532-5340 or email leah@gpchamber.com
We’ll see you on the course!
Member Exclusive Deals
Service Plus Grande Prairie
Both hotels are conveniently located off the Highway 43 Bypass on the Alaska Highway. Great location for shopping, dining and entertainment.
For business or pleasure, we are the place to stay.
Use code: GPChamber24 for a discounted rate when booking
Book today 1.888.875.4667
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 travellers alike.
Use code: CHAMBER for 15% off all Grande Prairie Chamber Members
Have a deal you want to promote?
Chamber members can submit special offers only available to fellow members, fostering local business support and collaboration.
Have a deal to share? Email max@gpchamber.com to get your exclusive offer featured!
Chamber Member Spotlight!
Our business community is filled with innovative, hardworking, and dedicated entrepreneurs, and we want to showcase them! Each edition of The Chamber Connection will feature a Chamber Member Business Spotlight, highlighting the stories, successes, and uniqueofferingsofbusinessesinournetwork.
From small startups to well-established enterprises, this is an opportunity to learn more about the businesses shaping our local economy. Stay tuned for insights into their journeys, challenges, and contributionstoourcommunity!
Prefurd Oilfield Services
YOUR "PREFURD" CHOICE SINCE 1987
Founded in 1987 by John Tiegen in Fox Creek, Alberta, Prefurd Welding Ltd. began with a focus on providing welding services. Recognizing the immense potential in the oil and gas sector, the company relocated to Grande Prairie in 1995, marking the beginning of its expansion.
As demand surged, PREFURD diversified its offerings to include pipeline construction, custom fabrication, andoilfieldinsulation.
This strategic evolution propelled PREFURD into a leading contractor on major projects, earning a reputation for consistently delivering outstanding results.
WHO WE ARE TODAY
PREFURD is proudly minority-owned, Celebrating Metis and Woman Leadership, supported by leadership with extensive experience that strengthensourdiverseteam.
This ownership structure, built on years of commitment and expertise, enables us to deliver exceptional results, foster reconciliation, and build strong partnerships that contribute to community growth—exemplifying our dedication to diversity and inclusivity.
DRIVING EXCELLENCE IN NORTHERN ALBERTA
Strategically located in Grande Prairie, Alberta, our northern hub serves as a key point of engagement for clients and communities throughout the region. We proudly extend our services across Alberta and northern BC, offering a comprehensive range of solutions.
Driven by our experienced team, we remain steadfast in our commitment to excellence in both products and customer service, ensuring client satisfaction at everystageofourpartnership.
CORE VALUES
EFFICIENCY & COMMUNICATION
Delivering top-tier results through efficient practices while maintaining open, transparent, and timely communication with clients, partners, and team members.
RESPECT & INTEGRITY
Honoring our commitments and fostering an environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. We strive to uphold the highest ethical standardsinallourdealings.
DIVERSITY & COLLABORATION
Promoting an inclusive workplace that values diverse perspectives and teamwork. With 40% Metis and 40% female ownership, we are proud to lead by example in championing diversity, equity and inclusivity within ourindustry.
SAFETY & QUALITY
Prioritizing safety and quality in every aspect of our operations. We exceed local, state, and federal regulations to ensure our operations, products and servicesmeetandsurpassindustrystandards.
Proud Member of the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business (CCAB)
PREFURD is proud to be a member of the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business (CCAB). We are dedicated to supporting and empowering Indigenous businesses, fostering reconciliation, and building strong partnerships that contribute to community growth. Our membership reflects our ongoing commitment to creating sustainable partnerships thatdrivepositivechange.
Chamber Member Shout-out
May
2025
MILESTONE MEMBERS!
40 Years
Cardon Homes Ltd
35 Years
Milano for Men
25 Years
Big Rig Collision Grande Prairie
20 Years
Bell Media Inc
15 Years
Canfor
Northview Canadian High Yield
Residential Fund
RONA Grande Prairie
10 Years
Shade Tree Chocolate Studio
Shaw’s Enterprises Ltd
5 Years
Grande Inn & Residence
Jeffrey’s Cafe Montrose
NEW MEMBERS
A Counter Full
Hansen Ford Lincoln
Brandt Group of Companies
Trojan Safety Services
BJ Energy Solutions
Canada, ULC
“Behind every strong community is a network of resilient, passionate local businesses..”
AfroTime Foundation
Joined: March 11, 2025
A warm welcome to Godfred Owusu and the AfroTime Foundation! We're proud to support organizations making an impact in our region.
O’Luain Transport
Joined: April 21 , 2025
We're excited to welcome Richard Lamb and O’Luain Transport to our Chamber network! Looking forward to seeing this business grow in our community
NATHAN &
TRENT
(OWNERS)
Full Force Ventures
Joined: March 12, 2025
Say hello to Nathan Dreger & Trent Mckeage, the powerhouse team behind Full Force Ventures! Great to have you as part of the Chamber community.
GODFRED OWUSU (FOUNDER)
RICHARD LAMB (OWNER)
TheJobBoard
Looking for a trusted local business to get a job done? Whether you need professional services, skilled trades, marketing help, or business support, our Chamber Member Classifieds help connect you with the right providers from our network!
01
02
03
Submit Your Request
Keep it short and clear (like a newspaper classified ad).
Example: “Looking for a commercial cleaning service for a downtown office. Weekly contract. Contact John at john@email.com.”
Chamber Members Reach Out
Chamber Members can respond directly to your request. Members will email you with their offers or proposals.
Make Your Connection & Get It Done!
Review your options and choose the best fit for your needs. Strengthen your business by supporting fellow Chamber Members!
EXAMPLESBELOW
WebsiteDevelopment&SEOHelp
"Need a website refresh and SEO optimization foragrowingbusiness.Opentoconsultations. ContactJasonatexample@email.com.
Printing&PromotionalMaterials
"Looking for a Chamber Member that can provide branded banners and promotional items for an upcoming trade show. Contact Lisaatexample@email.com.
Looking for a Business Lawyer
"Seeking legal advice on business contracts and incorporation. Preferably a local firm with experience in small businesses. Contact Sarah at example@email.com.
OfficeSpaceforRent
"Small office space available for rent in a shared business center. Includes high-speed internet and meeting room access. Contact Johnatexample@email.com.
HiringaBookkeeper
"Seeking a reliable bookkeeper for monthly reconciliation and tax prep. Preferably experienced with QuickBooks. Contact Rachel atexample@email.com
SocialMediaManagement
"Looking for an expert in social media marketing to help grow brand awareness. Must have experience with Instagram and LinkedIn. Contact Tom at example@email.com.
PETROLEUM INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
Things you may have missed this week!
CAPP STATEMENT ON NEW FEDERAL CABINET
The Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (CAPP) congratulates all the newly appointed and returning Ministers on their cabinet positions. A new Prime Minister and a significantly revamped cabinet offers an opportunity for a reset and to turn full focus on reaching Canada’s full potential as a highperforming country, building from our energy-abundant resources for the benefit of all Canadians.
With strategic policies and necessary infrastructure, the energy sector is ready to drive new investments, create and support high-paying jobs
and ensure a stable supply of affordable energy for Canadians and our global trading partners.
CAPP and our members are pleased that these topics of critical significance are now part of the national conversation.
CAPP will work in earnest with the new cabinet team to advance these issues of importance to Canadians to achieve the Prime Minister’s vision of building our country into an energy superpower.
-Lisa Baiton, CAPP President and CEO
Chamber Connection
2025 Alberta budget summary from Alberta Chambers
The 2025-2026 Alberta Budget responds to a complex financial landscape for businesses, emphasizing significant investments in infrastructure, health care, and education, while projecting a $5.2 billion deficit influenced by declining oil revenues and rising debt.
In light of these challenges, the Alberta Chambers of Commerce and businesses are encouraged to focus on risk mitigation, capitalizing on infrastructure, and advocating for measure that strengthen business competitiveness.
Read the summary
Emergency evacuation support for Albertans
Alberta’s government is providing one-time emergency evacuation payments to help ease the financial burden for those forced from their homes due to wildfires or other disasters. Eligible adults can receive $1,250, plus $500 for each dependent child after seven days of evacuation. Apply online within 60 days of the evacuation order for fastest processing via e-transfer.
Read the announcement Ready Rating ACC Emergency Preparedness Resources
Trade Tracker – A tool from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce highlighting trade trends and disruptions. Explore it here
Committee on Internal Trade: update
The Committee on Internal Trade (CIT) met last week to advance initiatives aimed at strengthening interprovincial trade.
Discussions focused on improving business access to financial services, reducing regulatory barriers, and enhancing labour mobility.
CIT also launched a pilot project on mutual recognition in the trucking sector to facilitate the movement of goods across Canada. These efforts align with ACC’s advocacy for a more seamless and competitive interprovincial trade environment.
Learn more about ACC’s trade policies at abchamber.ca/policies
Building Alberta’s future workforce with work-integrated learning
The Government of Alberta’s $15M investment in Mitacs is a strong signal of commitment to developing future-ready talent. Since September 2022, the Alberta Chambers of Commerce has helped facilitate 275 Mitacs internships through our Work-Integrated Learning initiative—supporting students, businesses, and innovation across the province. This investment will help scale impactful solutions that connect education to employment and drive Alberta’s economic growth.
Read the announcement Watch the announcement ACC’s Talent Development Task Force
What We Heard at the 2025 B7 Summit
Over three days, business leaders from the G7 and like-minded countries congregated in Ottawa for the 2025 B7 Summit.
Across panels, presentations and coffee conversations, the B7 Summit was host to diverse perspectives on the most pressing economic challenges of today, including energy, AI, infrastructure, supply chains and critical minerals. Read our recap blog for highlights from these discussions as well as session photos.
Read the Blog
Canadian Chamber of Commerce Statement Regarding Minister Guilbeault’s Pipeline Remarks
As business in Canada, we are hoping to see clarity and consistency from Minister Guilbeault and all members of Cabinet about the need for more energy infrastructure and the shared benefit from this sector to Canadian economic security,” said Matthew Holmes, Executive Vice President and Chief of Public Policy, in a statement last week in response to Minister Guilbeault’s remarks regarding both Canada’s pipelines and domestic and international demand for oil.
Read The Statement
North American Auto Success At Risk With Tariff Seesaw
North American auto workers, plants and investors can’t predict how the U.S. administration will wake up and feel on any given morning. Business plans are delayed. Pricing pressure is rising.
North America’s auto sector is deeply integrated — nearly 80% of Canadian-made vehicles are exported, mostly to the U.S. Whether the U.S. administration likes it or not, we’re in this together and supply chains don’t heal quickly once broken.
Tariffs just add taxes to the cost of completed cars, with auto parts and cars moving back-and-forth from facility to facility. The consequences: less employment, domestic and foreign investment, and retirement savings for future retirees.
Only an end to tariffs provides real relief. Ongoing ups and downs perpetuate uncertainty, and uncertainty drives away business for both Canada and the U.S.
Canadian Chamber of Commerce Congratulates Newly Elected Prime Minister Mark Carney
Prime Minister Carney steps into office at a critical and highly uncertain time for our country and the world. The ongoing trade war with the U.S. has disrupted the global trade order and broken the status quo. Canadians, worried about the price of everything from homes to energy to food, need stability and a clear plan for the future.
Read the Blog
Discover How to Master SEO Basics and Rank Higher
Want to rank higher on Google?
Join us on May 22 at 11:00 AM for a free webinar, Search Engine Optimization 101: The Basics to Help You Rank Higher, with Ryan Blais and Meghan Jobson from Nine10.
Learn the fundamentals of SEO—from choosing the right keywords to optimizing your content and boosting your website’s visibility. Whether you’re launching a new site or improving an existing one, this session will give you the tools to get found online
Accessing Small Business Grants - Find And Secure Funding
Unlock the secrets to securing business grants. Learn where to find grants, how to apply, and stand out to increase your chances of success. Gain valuable tips to navigate the process and unlock funding to support your business growth and achieve your goals.
Read Now
MORE RESOURCES FOR BUSINESSES
CONFERENCE BOARD OF CANADA
Trade Partner Profile: The European Union
Trade between Canada and the European Union has surged over the past decade, driven by previous trade agreements and rising demand for natural resources and advanced manufacturing.
With the prospect of U.S. tariffs on the EU, Canada has an opportunity to expand its market share in the European Union.
Read our latest Economic Quick Take, which outlines areas of opportunity with Canada’s second-largest trading partner.
Read our insights
All our releases for the Canada in a Changing World series can be found here
Impacts Vary Across Province
The impacts of the tariffs imposed by the Trump administration on Canada's national economy are very different, in some cases, than what we're likely to see provincially
While U.S. exposure is an important factor, each province's vulnerability to tariffs is influenced by many other elements. We've analysed the overall impact of the tariffs and retaliatory actions on each province and create specific scenarios for each one.
Read our insights
Have some big news to share? Whether you're rebranding, rolling out innovative tech, reaching a major milestone, or making waves in the business community—we want to hear about it! Your accomplishments deserve the spotlight, and we're here to help you celebrate and inspire others.
Send your updates to max@gpchamber.com and get featured in an upcoming edition of The Chamber Connection!
Our Community Builders
Welcome our newest community builder member!
05/21/2025
Established in 1984, Hansen Ford has been a proud cornerstone of the Grande Prairie business community for over four decades. As one of the region’s longest-standing automotive dealerships, Hansen Ford has grown alongside the Peace Country, transforming from a small-town dealership into a full-service automotive hub renowned for its integrity, innovation, and leadership.
Family-owned and operated, Hansen Ford is deeply rooted in Grande Prairie. The dealership actively supports local initiatives, charities, youth sports programs, and community events, reflecting a long-standing commitment to giving back and strengthening the region it proudly calls home.
More than just a place to buy a vehicle, Hansen Ford offers a comprehensive range of services, including new and pre-owned vehicle sales, commercial fleet solutions, and trusted after-sales care. A standout feature is Jimmy’s Diner, a welcoming on-site restaurant open to the public. For Hansen Ford customers, it offers an extra special perk: complimentary meals through the Hansen Advantage —just one of the many ways the dealership puts peoplefirst.
Hansen Ford also extends its premium customer experience beyond the dealership. Eligible clients enjoy exclusive benefits such as premium parking at Grande Prairie Airport through its Lincoln First Class and Fleet First Class programs. These programs are designed to enhance travel convenience and comfort for Lincoln owners and fleet customers and reflect Hansen Ford’s commitment to delivering an exceptionalexperienceonandofftheroad.
As a proud Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce member, Hansen Ford continues to drive forward with purpose, vision, and a steadfast dedication to excellence for today and future generations.
A Team You Can Trust
We believe in open and honest communication, full transparency, and serving YOUR needs. Prices are clearly displayed on our new vehicle inventory – we don’t hide them. Our sales staff is always ready to help, or simply let you discover Hansen’s great inventory on your own. Either way, we’re about building relationships with our customers, and that doesn’thappenwithouttrust.
