GALLERY
ALBERTACHAMBERSOFCOMMERCEFALLBOARD MEETING&TALENTDEVELOPMENTSYMPOSIUM
The Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce was proud to have representatives from our Board of Directors and CEO attend the Alberta Chambers of Commerce Fall Board Meeting, Talent Development Symposium, and Deputy Ministers’ Dinner held earlier this month.
This annual gathering brings together Chamber leaders, government representatives, and industry experts from across Alberta to exchange ideas and strengthen collaboration on the issues shaping our province’s future.
The Talent Development Symposium featured insightful discussions on Alberta’s workforce priorities — exploring how business, education, and government can work together to support a strong talent pipeline and address labour market challenges across industries. Speakers shared strategies to equip employers and workers for long-term success in an evolving economy.
During the Fall Board Meeting and Deputy Ministers’ Dinner, attendees heard updates on Alberta’s economic outlook and key areas of opportunity for growth. Conversations with provincial leaders highlighted the importance of partnerships between business and government to foster innovation, attract investment, and sustain regional prosperity.
Events like these strengthen the collective voice of the Chamber network, ensuring that the perspectives of communities like Grande Prairie are represented at the provincial level.
NORTHERN ALBERTA MLAS CRITICIZE 'UNACCEPTABLE' PROPOSED ELECTORAL BOUNDARY REDRAW
NorthernAlbertaMLAsareraisingconcernsaboutanewinterimreportbytheAlbertaElectoralBoundaries Commissionthatproposesthesevenelectoraldivisionsintheregionbeconsolidatedintosix.
TheinterimElectoralBoundariesCommissionreportpublishedinOctoberrecommendstheLesserSlaveLake ridingbereplacedbyMackenzie,astheridingsinthenorthhave“eitherlostpopulationorgrownataratethatisless thantheprovinceasawhole.”
Thecommissionsaiditissympathetictothechallengesofrepresentingthenorth,butcontinuestoconsiderthe populationvariancestheretobethehighestintheprovince.Itconcludedanelectoraldivisionneededtoberemoved fromtheregion.
ButMLAsinthenorthernpartoftheprovincearecritiquingthereport,sayingitdoesn’teffectivelydealwiththe uniquechallengestheregionfaces.
TheIndependentMLAforLesserSlaveLakeScottSinclaircalledtheproposedchangean“attackondemocracy,” andworrieditwillweakenthevoiceofnorthernAlberta.
Sinclairsaidhiscurrentridingis70,000kilometresinarea,abouttwicethesizeoftheNetherlands,andtheproposed successorisdoublethatsize.
Whilepopulationlossisaconcern,Sinclairsaysthesizeofridingsalsoneedstobeconsidered. ThenineotherMLAsnorthofEdmontonalsopostedanopenletteronsocialmediadecryingtheproposedchange, callingtheeliminationofanorthernriding"unacceptable."
TheletterincludessignaturesfromMLAforGrandePrairie-WapitiRonWiebe,GrandePrairie’sNolanDyck,Peace River'sDanWilliams,CentralPeace-Notley'sToddLoewen,Athabasca-Barrhead-Westlock'sGlenVanDijken, Bonnyville-Cold-Lake-St.Paul'sScottCyr,FortMcMurray-LacLaBiche'sBrianJean,FortMcMurray-WoodBuffalo's TanyYao,andWestYellowhead’sMartinLong.
Theletteralsosuggeststhat,inordertokeepwithpopulationrequirementsfortheriding,thattheLesserSlaveLake ridinggrowtowardthesouthandthatmostofthecurrentelectoralboundariesshouldstaythesame
All10representativesareurgingthecommissiontoincorporatetheirfeedbackintheseconddraftofthereport.
Accordingtothereport,therecommendationsaresubjecttofurtherdeliberationbasedonpublicconsultation.
ALBERTA PERSPECTIVES SURVEY
Municipal Red Tape and Business Supports
September 2025
Methodology
Utilizing the Alberta Perspectives platform, the ACC sent an invitation with a link to the online survey to all member chambers across the province. Chambers then sent this invitation to their members. Other sources were also used to survey businesses, including non-chamber members. A total of 488 participants completed the survey through this approach. This large number of responses allows the ACC to speak with authority about members’ views, strengthening advocacy on behalf of Alberta’s business community. Those businesses responding to the survey self-identify as either a business, a not-for-profit organization or a public sector organization. Surveying was undertaken between August 27th and September 12th, 2025.
Highlighted Observations from Alberta Perspectives
Support from Elected Officials
Elected officials reaching out has rebounded slightly from 2024, although still low, but those reporting the contact was beneficial is well up over 2023. Although well below 2019 –2022 levels but with only one-in-five employers saying they have been contacted. It is still more likely that businesses reach out to elected officials, although the difference is narrowing.
20% Increase in reported contact that was beneficial
with Municipal Officials
62%
of businesses says their municipality does not consult well with businesses in their community saying ‘not at all
33%
report being affected by some type of crime in the past 12 months. had to invest money to protect their business from crime
68% 52% 13%
61% Of reported crimes are related to Cyber Crime & theft
businesses are a ‘Promoter’ of the municipality where their business operates
61% While are a ‘Detractor’
50% of businesses continue to say they are not satisfied with the business supports and services offered by their municipality
UPCOMING RIBBON CUTTING
WED, DEC 03 | 3:30PM
THE WORK PLACE/ CARLSON & COMPANY
Ribbon Cutting - The Work Place/Carlson & Company Inc
JoinusincelebratingtherelocationofThe WorkPlace/Carlson&CompanyInc.into theirnewlocation!Thisexcitingmove marksameaningfulmilestoneforDenise Carlsonandherteam,andweinvite Chambermembers,localbusinesses,and communitypartnerstohelpcelebrate.
Did You KNOW?
Most small businesses spend over 10 hours a week managing finances - time that could be spent growing, creating and serving clients.
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!
Payworks for Grand Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce
Payworks is a leading expert in the field of total workforcemanagementsolutions, providing innovative cloud-based solutions for Payroll, Human Resources, Employee Time and Absence Management to businesses across the country.
As a proudly Canadian company serving businesses from coast to coast for more than 25 years, we understand what it takes to be an employer in Canada. We’re deeply committed not only to your success, but also to the communities we call home. 98% of clients who choose Payworks choose to stay. Here’s why…
We simplify year-endprocessing, electronically submitting tax form information to CRA/RQ on your behalf when authorized by the processing deadline.
Our ROE Manager tool makes processing a breeze, and ROEs are submitted directly to Service Canada on your behalf.
You can automate vacation pay entitlements and benefits enrolment after the employee probationary period.
No more data re-entry: our workforce management solutions for time tracking, scheduling, absenteeism, and HR functions are fully integrated.
User-defined fieldsandautomation empower you to shape the application to your specific requirements.
Payworks' Self Service App provides easy access for your employees to receive pay statements, tax forms, and more from their mobile device.
You call, we answer: all clients are assigned a dedicated, National Payroll Institute-trained service representative for unlimited, one-toone service.
Federal and provincial tax remittances are done for you.
*All prices aresubjectto change without notice asperthe terms of your service agreement. ^$12 per employee with a minimum implementation (setup) fee of $240.
¹ Price does not include Year-End archive fee of $34.95, charged once per year if Year-End is processed. Pricing in effect until April 30, 2026
Contact Madi Stevens
Phone: 780.902.8074
Email: madi.stevens@payworks.ca
Deal That Paves Way for New Oil Pipeline
PrimeMinisterMarkCarneyandAlbertaPremier DanielleSmithhaveagreedtothebroadtermsofadeal thatwouldsupportanewoilpipelinetoCanada’swest coast.
Thefederalandprovincialleadersaresettoannouncea milestonedealgrantingspecialexemptionsand“political support”toanewpipelineatapressconferenceinCalgary, Alberta,onThursday,thereportsaid,citinganonymous sources.
BritishColumbiaPremierDavidEbyhasexpressed vehementoppositiontoanewpipeline,andcitesIndigenous leadersfromtheregionwhoarealsoagainsttheidea.He’s saidforcingthroughapipelinecouldjeopardizeIndigenous supportforothermajorprojectsinBClikeliquefiednatural gasfacilities.
Delivering affordable homes for Albertans
ThegovernmentsofAlbertaand Canadaarecommitting$200millionto buildthousandsmoreaffordable homesacrosstheprovince.
AsAlberta’spopulationgrows,sodoesthe demandforaffordablehousing.That’s why,throughtheAffordableHousing PartnershipProgram,$200millioninjoint provincialandfederalfundingisbeing committedtobuildmoreaffordablehomes forAlbertans.
ReadFullArticle
Enhancing access through dual practice
Albertaisintroducingadualpractice healthcaremodeltoincreaseoptions andshortenwaittimeswhile maintainingstrongprotectionfor publiclyfundedservices.
Ifpassed,Bill11,theHealthStatutes AmendmentAct,2025(No.2),would modernizephysicianparticipationrulesto givedoctorsflexibilitytoworkinboththe publicsystemandprivatesettings.
ReadFullArticle
Is your business ready for the next wildfire or natural disaster?
Share your perspective in this quick 3-min survey to help us understand how your business was impacted by wildfires previously, and how we can best support you in future disasters.
Your feedback will help us create practical resources to supportlocalbusinesseslikeyourstobouncebackfasterfrom futurenaturaldisasters.
TakeSurvey
Beyond The Noise: Build A PurposeDriven 2026
JoinusonDecember4that11a.m.forafreewebinarfeaturing industryleaderandcoachTrenaLaine,thiseventwillteachyou howtorecognizeburnoutearly,protectyourtimeandenergyand realignyourbusinesswithwhatmattersmost!
RegisterToday
Unlocking Business Support: Navigating Government Tools With Innovation Canada
Join us on December 9th at 11 a.m. for a free webinar featuring Innovation Canada’s Dmitri Bakker, Marketing Strategist,andMahaBuhisi,EconomicAnalyst.Learnhow tonavigateCanada’sbusinesssupportsystemusingtools that connect you with funding opportunities, professional adviceandtailoredprogramstohelpyourbusinessgrow.
RegisterToday
Understand.Heal.Grow. BSB Counselling offers professional support with a down-to-earth, strength based approach—designed especially for men navigating life’s challenges. Whether you're dealing with stress, relationship struggles, life transitions, or quiet battles with addiction, we’re here to help you find strength, clarity, and purpose. You’re not alone. Reach out today for a free consultation.
SERVICES:
Couples Therapy Family
https://bsbcounselling.ca/ 587-297-3757
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
Loans and advice to buy or sell a business
Get financing tailored to your needs and advice from experts to buy, sell or transfer a business. BDC is here to guide you through your projects and support you every step of the way.
Learn more
Grande Prairie, Alberta
Chamber Member Shout-out
StreamlineIntegrityInc
KnemcoManufacturing
OvintivCanadaULC
NativeWomen’sAssociationofCanada
TwistersPizza
ParalleleAlberta
2197926AlbertaLtd.
VitaDripMobileIVTherapyInc.
RUTHBHEL'sheARTandCreations
Grouard-McLennanCovenantHealth
Community
SamyRestaurantLtdo/aCosmicPizza
PrairieClean
TurkeyHillSugarbushLtd
TrueNorthHomes&ConstructionLtd.
PrecisionKitchen&CabinetsLtd.
IKNTruckingLtd.
HillStarIntegratedHealth
AlphaTrainingSolutions
JC'SPaintingServices
Blonde&Beyond
54+Pine
BeyondBreakfast
PeaceCountrySolar
TheBedShoppe
EmcoCorporation
EternityFineJewellery
SeanSargentToyota
StandardAutoGlass
TukAToy
ABLtd
“Behind every strong community is a network of resilient, passionate local businesses..”
CBJ Transfers & Apparel
Joined:October15,2025
We’re excited to welcome July Madera and CBJ Transfers & Apparel to our Chamber network! Looking forward to seeing this creative local business continue to grow and makeanimpactinourcommunity.
Joined:November08,2025
We’reexcitedtowelcomeKristineDela CruzandVitaDripMobileIVTherapy Inc.toourChambernetwork!Welook forwardtoseeingthisinnovativelocal businesscontinuetogrow,connect,and makeapositiveimpactinourregional businesscommunity.
Vita Drip Mobile IV Therapy Inc
How It Works
Empowering Women, Transforming Futures: Bursary Program
We understand that many women may feel unsure about how to start their educational journey or whether higher education is even a possibility for them. This is why the Empowering Women; Transforming Futures Bursary Program exists.
Funded by the generosity of the Backman Family Fund, and in collaboration with Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP), the City of Grande Prairie, and Centerpoint Facilitation Inc., we are proud to offer women in Grande Prairie an opportunity to transform their futures. This bursary program is designed to provide both a personalized education plan and financial support to help women overcome barriers and take the next step in their educational journey at Northwestern Polytechnic.
Women who wish to apply can submit their application to the Empowering Women, Transforming Futures Committee. The committee reviews applications monthly, considering each applicant’s background, goals, and financial needs.
The committee will recommend successful applicants to receive a Person-Centered Educational Plan. This customized plan uses a collaborative approach to guide applicants through the process of determining their educational and career goals, while also helping to identify the supports needed for academic success. This process will also help to assess if the applicant is eligible for funding.
If an applicant is eligible for funding, bursary funds are paid directly to Northwestern Polytechnic, ensuring that tuition and educational expenses are covered efficiently and securely.
Community-based organizations and other partnering agencies can refer women who they believe would benefit from the bursary and educational support.
Application Process
1. Submit Your Application: Download and complete the application form with your educational background, goals, challenges, and reasons for seeking the bursary. Email your completed application to dwright@cityofgp.com
2. Committee Review: Applications are reviewed monthly, and evaluated on merit, financial need, and alignment with the program’s vision.
3. Recommendation & Notification: Applicants will be chosen and notified via email and phone within 2 weeks of the monthly review.
QR Code for Application
Eligibility Criteria
•
• • • Identify as a woman seeking to further your education at Northwestern Polytechnic. 18 years of age or older.
Have a clear educational goal aligned with the Empowering Women, Transforming Futures vision. Demonstrate financial need or barriers to accessing education.
TheJobBoard
Lookingforatrustedlocalbusinesstogetajobdone?Whetheryouneedprofessionalservices,skilledtrades, marketinghelp,orbusinesssupport,ourChamberMemberClassifiedshelpconnectyouwiththerightproviders fromournetwork!
GeneralManager(full-time)
TheAgencyisassistingNitehawkYear-RoundAdventurePark intherecruitmentofaGeneralManager.Thisexciting leadershiproleoverseesthestrategicdirection,operations, financialperformance,teamculture,andcommunity engagementofoneoftheregionspopularrecreation destinations.
TheGeneralManagerwillleadanenergeticteam,drive sustainablegrowth,andensureunforgettableexperiencesfor guestsfromwinterskiandsnowboardseasontoyear-round outdooradventures,events,andcommunityprograms.
Formoreinformation: https://www.careers-page.com/theagency212/job/4RRRVY8V
Red Tape Reduction Statutes Amendment Act, 2025 (No. 2)
TheRedTapeReductionStatutesAmendmentAct,2025 (No. 2) introduces five amendments aimed at improving labour mobility and supporting rural economic growth. If passed, the act will modernize government ID by integrating health numbers and citizenship information, reduce barriers to regulated professions, support allseason resort development, and expand tourism and agricultureopportunitiesthroughharvestpreserves.
Learnmore
Investing in rural Ag society infrastructure
The Agricultural Societies Infrastructure Revitalization Program has provided $7.5 million to support 106 projects across Alberta, helping rural facilities stay safe, modern and vibrant community hubs that strengthen local engagement and economic activity. Agricultural societies can apply for grants between $10,000 and $100,000 for majorrepairsandupgrades.
Learnmore
Powering new pathways for data centres
Alberta’sgovernmentisproposingchangesthat wouldprovidedatacentreswithmoreoptionsto meet their power needs and enhance the reliabilityofthegrid.
With the emergence of innovative yet energyintensive artificial intelligence technologies and growing electricity demand, Bill 8, the Utilities Statutes Amendment Act, 2025, would pave the way for data centres to bring their own generation. Amendments would also further advance the modernization of Alberta’s electricity market to ensure the reliability and affordability of the power gridforgenerationstocome.
ReadFullAnnouncment
For businesses seeking more insights and tools:
Our Response to the Signing of the Canadian Mutual Recognition Agreement
Lastweek,atradeagreementwassignedbetweenallprovincesand territories and the federal government. The agreement allows businessestosellthousandsofproductsacrossCanada,withsome exclusions. It will take effect next month. We welcome the collaborationacrosslevelsofgovernment.
ReadOurStatement
Our Response to the Government Fixing the Greenwashing Amendment
Budget 2025 proposes removing the words “internationally recognized methodology” from the Competition Act. The Canadian Chamber is pleased this new government has listened to the concerns raised by business and chosen collaboration. Fixing this amendment shows that constructive business advocacy leads to betterpublicpolicy.
ReadOurStatement
Letter Urges Trump Administration to Preserve CUSMA Due to Benefits for Agriculture
The letter noted that since the implementation of CUSMA, U.S. agricultural exports have increased significantly, with exports to Mexicorisingby$10.7billionandtoCanadaby$7.6billion.Thejoint letter received the support of numerous major U.S. agricultural industry groups that all voiced their support for maintaining and enhancing CUSMA, emphasizing its importance for market access andtraderelations.
EVEN MORE RESOURCES
Strengthening Organizational Performance Through Management Training
DoesyourcompanyhaveaninterestinManagementTrainingforyourteam,butfoundthebudgetoutofreach?Here’s anopportunitytoaccessexcellenttrainingprogramsforaphenomenalbudget!
Future Focus Inc, a NEW partner to our Chamber Communities, is excited to invite you to an Information Session introducing the Management Effectiveness Program (MEP) and Emerging Managers Training (EMT) — two proven leadership development programs designed specifically to increase productivity and performance for Alberta businesses.
FutureFocusIncisofferinga33%discounttoChamberMembers,plusyoucanaccessupto50%fundingthroughthe Canada-AlbertaProductivityGrant(CAPG)!
InfoSession:Tuesday,December9th–Noonto1pm
Location:Virtual(Zoom)
ClicktoRegister
This session is open to Chamber Staff, Chamber Members and Non-Chamber Member Employers interested in developingtheirleaderswhilemaximizingavailablegrantfunding.
eCommerce 101: What, Why, and How
Tuesday,December2nd,2025(10:00am-11:30am) Online-ZOOM
Moreconsumersthaneverbeforeareturningtoonlineshoppingforgreaterconvenience,safety,andvariety.
Inthiswebinar,theTorontoDigitalServiceSquadwillteachyouthebasicstepstosettingupanonlinestore.Wewill cover everything from what you need to prepare before launching a store, to choosing an e-commerce platform, to providingexcellentcustomerserviceonline.You’llfinishthissessionfeelingexcitedabouthowe-commercecanhelp youreachnewcustomersandexpandintodifferentmarkets.
Joinustolearnwhyyoushouldconsidere-commerceforyourbusinessandhowyoucaneasilygetstarted.
Grande Prairie introduces microgrant to support youth
City of Grande Prairie Receives 2025
Minister’s Award for Red Tape Reduction and Service Delivery Enhancement
The City of Grande Prairie is launching a new Youth Economic Empowerment Microgrant to help youth and young adults access opportunities that support their employmentorskilldevelopmentgoals.
The Microgrant provides meaningful support to residents aged15to30whoaretakingstepstowardtheirfuture.Itoffers up to $750 per individual to help cover costs such as safety training, professional certification courses, workwear and the tools or equipment needed for employment. Many young peoplefacefinancialhurdlesthatcanslowtheirprogress,and this support helps make essential training and equipment moreaccessible
Theonlineapplicationisavailableat cityofgp.com/YouthEconomicEmpowerment
ReadFullAnnouncement
Celebrate community and recreation at the Keyera Place Open House December 5
TheCityofGrandePrairieinvitesresidents totakepartinacommunitycelebrationat KeyeraPlace,thenewlynamed multipurposesportsandrecreationfacility, withafreecommunityopenhouseon Friday,December5.
Startingat10a.m.,afulldayoffreedrop-ins areavailablethroughoutthebuilding, offeringachancetotryoutmanyofthe facilitiessportsandactivities,including skateboarding,children’srockclimbing, courtsports,anddiscorollerskating.
ReadFullAnnouncement
