Chamber Connection Vol 31 (Dec 17)

Chamber CONNECTION

Your Weekly Connection to The Chamber

GET YOUR PHOTO FEATURED - PAGE 20

FEATURED PHOTO: FRENCH BULLDOG IN WINTER - UNKOWN

DECEMBER 2025 ISSUE NO.31 GRANDEPRAIRECHAMBER.COM

9920 113 Ave Grande Prairie, Alberta 780 832 8142

Custom Jewelry & Repair Everything is completed in-store in Grande Prairie. Backed by over 70 years of experience, our goldsmiths take on a wide range of services, with some repairs done the same day.

Unique Jewelry and Watches Discover customizable silver and gold pieces. Plus, check out new watches by Glock and Lee Cooper.

Give a gift they’ll love.

Silver Ring Workshop Make your own Silver ring with us— learn to solder, hammer, and file, then wear your creation home. Find upcoming dates on our Facebook page.

Chamber Connection

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SEASON’S GREETINGS

FROM OUR NEW CHAIR Dear Members, Partners, and Friends of the Grande Prairie & District business community, As your new Chair of the Board of Directors, I am honoured to step into this role on behalf of the Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce and the nearly 1,200 member businesses and organizations who employ more than 20,000 people in our region. Together with our Board, Chamber team, and community partners, I am committed to building on the strong foundation that has been laid by past Chairs and volunteers In my professional role with KMSC Law LLP, I have seen first-hand how resilient, innovative, and community-minded our local and regional businesses are. As Chair, I will continue to champion those strengths, supporting you through the Chamber’s core pillars of advocacy, promotion, networking, value-added benefits, and community involvement. Like Chambers across Canada, we are focused on connecting business, strengthening economic competitiveness, creating opportunity and ensuring our region remains a great place to live, work, invest, and grow.

Over the past year, our Chamber has continued to play a leading role in the region, hosting major events such as the Growing the North Conference (in collaboration with our regional partners), our Chamber Golf Scramble; Small Business Week activities; Your Region, Your Voice; Chamber Spring and Fall Showcases and a full calendar of Business After 5 Mixers; ribbon cuttings;

LORI POLLOCK - CHAIR GRADNE PRAIRIE & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

and our Workshop Your Business educational development series that help members learn, connect, and collaborate. 2026 will also mark the return of the biennial Peace Region Energy Show.

We will continue to use our collective voice to advocate on key economic and workforce issues, while opening doors for our members through partnerships at the municipal, provincial, and national levels.

As we celebrate this festive time of year, I want to extend warm Season’s Greetings to our local and regional communities across Grande Prairie and area. To our business owners, entrepreneurs, managers, frontline staff, volunteers, and community leaders, thank you for all you do to keep this region vibrant and thriving.

On behalf of the Board of Directors and Chamber team, I look forward to an excellent year of progress ahead, one defined by strong collaboration, new opportunities, and shared success for all who call this region home.

Warmest regards,

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CHAMBER CONNECTION NEWSLETTER

Highway 40X Expansion This past Saturday, we were pleased to join Minister Dreeshen and regional stakeholders to discuss key transportation and trucking industry challenges impacting our region.

We continue to advocate critical transportation priorities — including the Highway 40X expansion, improved rest stop infrastructure along Highway 40, and two Alberta Chambers policies in which the Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce was instrumental. Both policies were successfully approved at the Alberta and Canadian Chamber AGMs: The Road to Better Trade: Reducing Interprovincial Trade Barriers in Trucking Alberta’s Role in Enhancing Interprovincial Collaboration These policies call for harmonized regulatory standards across provinces, a national electronic permitting system for oversize/overweight equipment, and national minimum bridge height standards — all aimed at strengthening the efficiency and competitiveness of Canadian transportation corridors.

Upcoming Events!

Upcoming Events!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Click Here for a special message from The Chamber

01.21

Ribbon Cutting - Rotary Club of Grande Prairie

01.22

Ribbon Cutting - The Paddle Club

01.29

Business After 5 Mixer - Great Northern Casino

business.grandeprairiechamber.com/event-calendar

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UPCOMING RIBBON CUTTING WED, JAN 21 | 5:30PM

ROTARY CLUB OF GRANDE PRAIRIE Centre 2000 11330 - 106 St Grande Prairie, AB GRANDEPRAIRIECHAMBER.COM

Ribbon Cutting - Rotary Club of Grande Prairie We’re honored to mark a major milestone the 75th anniversary of the Rotary Club of Grande Prairie with a commemorative ribbon‑cutting event!

Join fellow Chamber members, community leaders, long‑time supporters, and friends of Rotary to celebrate this remarkable legacy.

It’s an opportunity to reflect on decades of service, reconnect with longtime members, meet new faces, and honour the commitment the Club has had to our community’s growth and well‑being.

Chamber Connection

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Local Artists.

Big Exposure.

Submit your best shot to max@gpchamber.com for a chance to be featured on the cover!

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CHAMBER CONNECTION NEWSLETTER

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, request a free quote today and let us show you how we can customize a plan for you.

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 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.

Local Agent - Cam Neil 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— personalized service from a team of advisors and support staff who live and work right here in your community. As your local provider of the Chamber Plan, we offer affordable, flexible, and stable benefits designed specifically for small and medium-sized businesses.

Whether you’re looking comprehensive coverage

for for

your team or just starting to explore

your

options,

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experts are here to guide you every step of the way. Get the best deal on insurance and peace of mind for your business —contact Neil & Associates today!

Chamber Connection

Update on highway speed survey results: Minister Dreeshen

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The future of methane regulations in Alberta: Minister Schulz Minister of Environment and Protected Areas Rebecca Schulz issued the following statement on regulating methane emissions in Alberta: On November 27, Premier Danielle Smith and Prime Minister Mark Carney signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) committing both governments to making Canada an energy superpower and increasing oil and gas production in Alberta.

Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors Devin Dreeshen issued the following statement on public support for raising speed limits on divided highways: “Alberta’s government conducted an online public engagement survey from Nov. 7 to Dec. 12, which received a total of 59,400 responses. The survey gave Albertans the opportunity to share their views on modernizing speed limits on rural divided highways.

“Preliminary results show that 68 per cent of respondents who shared thoughts on the matter support increasing speed limits on these highways from 110 km/h to 120 km/h.

It’s clear that Albertans are ready for modern, commonsense rules that better reflect how our roads are built and how people actually drive.

Read Full Announcement

“As part of the MOU, Alberta and the federal government agreed to complete a methane equivalency agreement on or before April 1, 2026, with a 2035 target date and a 75 per cent reduction target, relative to 2014 emissions levels.

As we have in the past, Alberta will focus on practical and flexible methane reduction solutions that enable our industry to stay competitive. This will include following up on the agreement between the governments to utilize thirdparty emissions monitoring to provide transparency and certainty to industry.

Read Full Announcement

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CHAMBER CONNECTION NEWSLETTER

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 support local businesses like yours to bounce back faster from future natural disasters.

Take Survey

Simple Ways to Get Your Business to Appear in AI Search Results Unsure how to appear in AI search tools? Nervous about getting found online as a small business in 2026? This webinar will teach you simple, effective ways to have your business appear in AI search results, without a bunch of coding and tech talk.

Learn from a website and copywriting specialist and set up your business to succeed in the modern marketing world!

Register Today

Solve the Right Problem: How Customers Decide to Hire You Customers don’t buy products — they “hire” solutions. A car fixed, a new toy, a great meal, a dog walked, a problem solved. Understanding why customers choose you is far more important than most founders realize.

In this practical webinar, you’ll learn how to define the real reason customers “hire” your business and how to clearly position your offer, so it stands out in a crowded market.

Register Today

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CHAMBER CONNECTION NEWSLETTER

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

Kit Office Plus 10% off office furniture assembled or unassembled in our Grande Prairie Showroom or Peace River Store 10% off unassembled furniture off our website, delivered to our Showroom in GP 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 schools as well.

Please email gpsales@kitofficeplus.com or use in store/showroom custom plan must be an email to oksanam@kitofficeplus.com

Have a deal to share? Email max@gpchamber.com to get your exclusive offer featured!

Chamber Connection

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Chamber Member Shout-out Month: December Our New Members!

Francophonie Canadienne Plurielle Top Hat Appliance Red Deer Ironworks Lnc Aurora Tree & Vegetation Management Ltd Lat55 Safety Inc Positive Accounting Solutions

Grande Prairie Family Education Society Steele Services Inc

Our Milestone Members!

40 YEARS GP Fire Extinguisher & Safety Ltd

30 YEARS Eco Medical Equipment R. Work Group

25 YEARS Grande Prairie Lions Club

20 YEARS Just Beachy Shade All InfoTech Solution Providers Inc

15 YEARS Scotia Wealth Management

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CHAMBER CONNECTION NEWSLETTER

“Behind every strong community is a network of resilient, passionate local businesses..”

JC’s Painting Services Joined: November 12, 2025 We’re excited to welcome Jennifer Calvert and JC’s Painting Services to our Chamber network! We look forward to seeing this skilled local business continue to grow and make an impact in our community.

FRANCOPHONIE CANADIENNE PLURIELLE Joined: November 26, 2025 We’re excited to welcome Quentin Dupressoir and Parallele Alberta to our Chamber network! We look forward to seeing this innovative local business continue to grow, connect, and make a positive impact in our regional business community.

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.

How It Works 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.

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CHAMBER CONNECTION NEWSLETTER

The Job Board 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!

» General Manager (full-time) The Agency is assisting Nitehawk Year-Round Adventure Park in the recruitment of a General Manager. This exciting leadership role oversees the strategic direction, operations, financial performance, team culture, and community engagement of one of the regions popular recreation destinations.

The General Manager will lead an energetic team, drive sustainable growth, and ensure unforgettable experiences for guests from winter ski and snowboard season to year-round outdoor adventures, events, and community programs.

For more information: https://www.careers-page.com/theagency212/job/4RRRVY8V

From all of us at....

To all of you and yours...

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year Have a safe and joyous holiday season.

Chamber Connection Engaging in nuclear energy The Government of Alberta invites Albertans to share their perspectives on the role of nuclear energy in meeting the province’s future electricity needs. The Nuclear Energy Engagement and Advisory Panel will host virtual and in-person information sessions in the coming months, providing insights on nuclear energy and gathering feedback to inform the panel’s final report, due March 31, 2026.

Learn more

Accelerating expansion in the agri-food sector The Government of Alberta has launched a new three-year program under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), allocating $10 million to support the construction of new greenhouses or the expansion of existing ones, including vertical farms, producing food at a commercial scale.

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Reducing regulatory delays for sand and gravel operations Sand and gravel operations provide the essential materials for Alberta’s homes, roads, and infrastructure. The province’s Sand and Gravel Task Force, launched in May 2025, is working to reduce regulatory delays and streamline approvals. These reforms aim to ensure a reliable supply of aggregates, support job creation, accelerate infrastructure development, and maintain strong environmental safeguards.

This initiative aligns with ACC’s advocacy efforts to streamline and coordinate regulatory processes, ensuring consistency and predictability for businesses across Alberta.

Learn more

Learn more Growing Greenhouses

For businesses seeking more insights and tools: EMC workforce programs for manufacturers: EMC’s Learning Centre offers fully funded or subsidized upskilling and hiring supports.

Buy Local Alberta Toolkit - download the free made-in Alberta toolkit Canada-U.S. Trade Tracker – Track trade trends and disruptions.

EMC Trade Relations Tracker – Collaborate on trade solutions for manufacturers.

Understanding CUSMA compliance - New resources from Trade Commissioner Service (TCS)

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CHAMBER CONNECTION NEWSLETTER

Inflation Holds Steady, but Food Prices Continue to Rise November CPI came in at 2.2%, matching October, with rising grocery prices pushing up costs even as shelter, travel, and gasoline helped keep overall inflation in check.

Encouragingly, core inflation eased meaningfully, a welcome sign that broader price pressures are easing. For the Bank of Canada, this reinforces a wait-and-see approach, while keeping a close eye on food inflation and the breadth of price pressures as the economy gradually improves.

Read the Commentary

Alberta and Manitoba Chambers Advancing Interprovincial Trade Opportunities The Alberta Chambers of Commerce (ACC) is facilitating business opportunities by leading an interprovincial trade mission of Alberta delegates to Winnipeg.

Hosted by the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce (MCC), the Alberta delegation will tour advanced manufacturing and logistics facilities and meet with federal ministers to highlight opportunities for trade, investment, and made-in-Canada procurement. The delegation includes senior representatives from Alberta tariff-impacted businesses, municipalities, and regional economic development organizations.

Read Full Release

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CHAMBER CONNECTION NEWSLETTER

EVEN MORE RESOURCES

How to Turn the Post-Holiday Slowdown Into a Strong Start for 2026 January always feels a bit strange for small business owners. After weeks of hustle, late-night orders, events, and holiday shoppers, the sudden quiet can feel like someone hit the brakes a little too hard. Foot traffic dips. Online sales slow down. Even your inbox gets unusually calm.

But here’s the thing—this lull isn’t a problem. It’s a gift. It gives you space to breathe, reset, and build the foundation for a stronger 2026.

Let’s walk through a few ways you can make the most of this quieter season without feeling overwhelmed.

Read the Blog

Payworks for Grande 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.

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Payworks' Self Service App provides easy access for your employees to receive pay statements, tax forms, and more from their mobile device.

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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.

Special pricing for Grande Prairie & District Chamber Members: PER RUN FEES*:

YourPrice

ONE TIME:

YourPrice

Base Run Fee

$18.40

Payroll Setup

Per Payment per employee

$1.96

YEAR-END FEES¹:

Per ROE

Included

Run Fee

$18.40

Self Service App

Included

Per Tax Form

$1.96

$240.00^

*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

CONTACT US NOW!

Chamber Connection

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Celebrating a Business Milestone?

YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS DESERVE THE SPOTLIGHT, AND WE'RE HERE TO HELP YOU CELEBRATE! SEND YOUR UPDATES TO MAX@GPCHAMBER.COM AND GET FEATURED IN AN UPCOMING EDITION OF THE CHAMBER CONNECTION!

WHERE INNOVATION CREATES OPPORTUNITY Join us at the Peace Region Energy Show 2026: Discover: Latest trends, technologies, and insights in the energy sector.

Connect: Network with industry leaders, innovators, and decision-makers.

Grow: Elevate your business with unparalleled access to new markets and ideas.

MAY 13-14, 2026 Grande Prairie, Alberta

Register Now at:

PRENERGY.CA

WISHING YOU

Happy holidays

Give yourself peace of mind with insurance options that fit Tailored Insurance Solutions for Business Owners & Key People Personal Life Insurance Cash Value Life Insurance Critical Illness Insurance Disability Insurance Employee Benefit Packages Savings Insured Investments Cashflow Planning

Jennifer Chambers COMMITTED TO YOUR SUCCESS

Call or text: 780-897-3212 www.jenn.thelinkbetween.ca jenn@insureforsuccess.com

LIFE INSURANCE INCOME PROTECTION INSURANCE PLANNING SAVINGS & INVESTMENTS INDIVIDUAL & GROUP BENEFITS

BALANCE + SECURITY + GROWTH

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CHAMBER CONNECTION NEWSLETTER

Grande Prairie introduces microgrant to support youth The City of Grande Prairie is launching a new Youth Economic Empowerment Microgrant to help youth and young adults access opportunities that support their employment or skill development goals.

The Microgrant provides meaningful support to residents aged 15 to 30 who are taking steps toward their future. It offers 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 people face financial hurdles that can slow their progress, and this support helps make essential training and equipment more accessible.

The online application is available at cityofgp.com/YouthEconomicEmpowerment Read Full Announcement

Extending the nomination period for the 2025 Bill Bowes Volunteer Organization of the Year Award The City of Grande Prairie is extending the nomination period for the 2025 Bill Bowes Volunteer Organization of the Year Award.

Nominations are open until December 31, 2025.

The award recognizes organizations or foundations in Grande Prairie that have significantly contributed to the wellbeing of residents through volunteer-driven programs, fundraising, community development and ongoing support for local needs.

Apply here: Bill Bowes Volunteer Organization of the Year Award | City of Grande Prairie.

November Economic Development Newsletter

Although thephilosophy and will is there to provide a service that is person centered, we struggle to have the resources to actualize this vision…

Centerpoint Facilitation presents training in

Person Centered Approaches If people who use services are to have positive control over their lives, if they are to have self-directed lives within their own communities, then those who are around the person, especially those who do the day-to-day work, need to have value-based person-centered thinking skills. We all require some support in our life, this workshop applies to all populations and any life situation which requires external supports: Developmental Disabilities Homeless Dementia Acquired Brain Injuries Mental health issues Short or long term health issues

End of Life Children &Families Domestic violence Addictions Staffing Teams Personal Situations

What will people be able to do as a result of attending this course?

The course covers a number of different Person-Centered Thinking approaches with opportunities to practice them and think how to apply them in your work.

When&where is this course?

January27and 28,2026 9am –4pmboth days Location:The Community Village, Building A 10113103avenue, Grande Prairie Registrationdeadline : January 16, 2026 How much? $285/person:includes resource package/course workbook (GSTincluded) Paymentbycheque or e-transfer Certificate of completion given To Register: Contact Tammy Ouellette at touellette@mycenterpoint.ca or 780-296-0223 Cancellation policy: No refunds willbe issued. Alternates welcome.

A minimum number of registrationsneeded for workshop to go ahead

5% discount to all Chamber member businesses who book a corporate workshop with their staff

FOR ALBERTA HEALTH PROFESSIONALS

VENEZ PRATIQUER LE FRANÇAIS DANS UNE AMBIANCE SYMPATHIQUE, MOTIVANTE ET FLEXIBLE.

CAFEDEPARIS-ALBERTA.CA

Chamber Connection DECEMBER 2025 ISSUE NO.31

EMAIL US : MAX@GPCHAMBER.COM