Chamber CONNECTION
Your Weekly Connection to The Chamber GET YOUR PHOTO FEATURED - PAGE 20
FEATURED PHOTO: MULE DEER WILDLIFE - ANGIE PATTERSON
AUGUST 2026 ISSUE NO.61 GRANDEPRAIRIECHAMBER.COM
YOUR AD HERE
Contact max@gpchamber.com for more information
YOUR AD HERE
Contact max@gpchamber.com for more information
Upcoming Events!
Upcoming Events! 08.26
Ribbon Cutting - Beyond the Lens Photography
08.27
Business After 5 Mixer: Grande Prairie & Area Association of REALTORS®
09.15
Workshop Your Business - Introduction to Mental Health in the Workplace
09.15
Ribbon Cutting - La Pradera Restaurante Inc
business.grandeprairiechamber.com/event-calendar
UPCOMING RIBBON CUTTING WED, AUG 26 | 4:30PM
BEYOND THE LENS PHOTOGRAPHY & VERGE MODEL & TALENT MANAGEMENT 9807 - 116 Ave #1 Grande Prairie, AB T8V 4B4 GRANDEPRAIRIECHAMBER.COM
Ribbon Cutting - Beyond the Lens Photography & Verge Model & Talent Management Join the Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce for a special Ribbon Cutting celebrating the new studio space of Beyond the Lens Photography and Verge Model & Talent Management. This exciting new space brings together creativity, talent, and community under one roof — creating a collaborative hub for photography, branding, modeling, talent development, and creative storytelling in Grande Prairie.
Chamber Connection
Connecting & Growing at the PNWER Annual Summit Our CEO recently joined business executives, industry leaders, and cross-border representatives in Edmonton for the Pacific Northwest Economic Region (PNWER) Annual Summit. Bringing together key decision-makers from across Western Canada and the US Pacific Northwest, the summit focused on strengthening cross-border trade, driving economic development, and building resilient regional partnerships. It was a fantastic opportunity to collaborate on shared economic priorities and highlight the strength of our local market. Pictured above: Our CEO connecting on-site with regional leadership from Fort McMurray and Leduc to discuss future economic growth and collaboration.
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Chamber Connection
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Got an Interesting Photo? Get Featured! 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, our 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!
manage your business with confidence
Let us take the stress out of your numbers—so you can focus on what matters most: growing your business. We’ll provide the clarity, insights and tools you need to make confident strategic decisions.
Launching or running an existing business
BUSINESS SET-UP Let us help you with setting up your business to run effciently and for growth.
Get in Touch with Us
+1-780-538-4699 admin@bigbizgrowth.com 201, 8801 Resources Road www,bigbizgrowth.com
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Chamber Connection
Investing in communities for a stronger Alberta
One card – that’s it! Albertans now get a redesigned, more secure driver’s licence or ID card that includes a Canadian citizenship identifier and their personal health number. . The new cards have enhanced security features and a modern design that celebrates Alberta’s landscape and identity. The integration of personal health numbers on the cards will improve convenience for Albertans by eliminating the need to carry a separate paper health card. Read more
Applications are open for the Northern and Regional Economic Development (NRED) program, helping communities attract investment, create jobs and grow local economies. Alberta’s government is investing $3 million through the NRED program in 2026 to help communities and organizations strengthen local economies and attract private-sector investment. Applications for the program are open until Nov. 19. Since launching in 2022, the NRED program has invested almost $29 million in 291 projects led by businesses, municipalities, organizations and industries to drive innovation and growth. Learn More
Strengthening primary care in rural Alberta Alberta’s $9-million additional investment in rural primary care is delivering results, helping clinics recruit providers and expand local services. IAlberta has invested an additional $9 million in rural primary care, including almost $8 million through the Rural Team Recruitment Grant to help rural clinics grow their care teams. Through the latest grant intake, $3.4 million was awarded to 23 clinics across Alberta, supporting 53 new full-time health care positions in rural and remote communities across the province. Read More
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CHAMBER CONNECTION NEWSLETTER
Business Banking Basics for New Entrepreneurs Thinking about opening a business bank account? Join us this Thursday, Aug. 13 at 12 p.m. for a free webinar to learn the banking basics that can help set your business up for success. We’ll cover what you need to get started, common mistakes to avoid, how to prepare for future financing conversations, and what your bank may want to see as your business grows. Eligible attendees will also have a chance to win up to $450 in waived business banking fees. Secure a Spot
Peer Support for Your Next Stage of Business There’s still time to apply for the September Peerpreneur cohort, but applications are closing soon. Connect with entrepreneurs navigating similar challenges and opportunities, share experiences and learn from different perspectives. Peerpreneur gives you a trusted network for support, encouragement and accountability. It can also help you stay focused and find ways to move your business forward. Apply Now
Make Blogging a Key Part of Your Marketing Strategy Blogging can help your business show up when customers are searching for answers online. Learn how to create content that reflects your experience, builds trust and helps people discover your business. This guide covers how to choose topics, write with your audience in mind and make your content easy to read. You’ll also discover ways to repurpose each article across social media, email and marketing channels so your content continues working over time, long after it is published. Learn More
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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!
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Chamber Connection
CHAMBER MEMBER SHOUTOUT
Also found on Page 04
Please Welcome Our New Chamber Members Month : August
Aruventa Being Yourself Ethereal Essence Remote Waste LP Elite Residential Drafting & Design EX Cabs O’Leary Digital (Wonder Valley) Arxx Hair Studio Red Seal Consulting Inc Dixon Mitchell Investment Counsel CommVest Realty Ltd CIMA Canada Inc Abraham’s Cannabis
Check out our new Chamber Milestone Magazine for an in-depth look at the months milestone members and their stories!
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CHAMBER CONNECTION NEWSLETTER
“Behind every strong community is a network of resilient, passionate local businesses..” Being Yourself Joined: July 29, 2026 We’re pleased to welcome Dr. Shelyn Somani and Being Yourself to our Chamber network! We look forward to seeing this organization continue to grow and serve our community.
Peace Country Marketing Joined: June 29, 2026 We’re excited to welcome Maggie Reid and Peace Country Marketing to our Chamber network! We look forward to seeing this business continue to grow and contribute to our regional community.
Member JOB BOARD Keep it maximum 200 charcters Provide email or resume submission link Provide end date for job posting
CONTACT US max@gpchamber.com
Email us with any questions
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CHAMBER CONNECTION NEWSLETTER
MEMBER CAREERS FIND YOUR NEXT JOB | UPDATED AUGUST 2026
FEATURED EMPLOYERS
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Electrical/Instrumentation and Control System Technician Aquatera is recruiting an electrical/instrumentation and control system technician responsible for maintaining automation and electrical systems reliability that support Aquatera’s water and wastewater treatment and distribution operations.
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Learn more and apply at www.aquatera.ca/who-we-are/join-our-team.
CMMS Coordinator Aquatera is recruiting a CMMS Coordinator to administer and optimize Aquatera’s computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) as a core component of our asset management program. Learn more and apply at www.aquatera.ca/who-we-are/join-our-team.
Account Services Manager Aquatera is recruiting a Account Services Manager responsible for managing Customer Service, Billing, Collections, Bulk Water and General Accounts Receivables for Water, Wastewater and Solid Waste Services within Aquatera’s service area. Learn more and apply at www.aquatera.ca/who-we-are/join-our-team.
Reliability Engineer Aquatera is recruiting a project manager reliability engineer to develop and implement strategies that maximize equipment uptime, support asset lifecycle management and drive continuous improvement across our operations. Learn more and apply at www.aquatera.ca/who-we-are/join-our-team.
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CT MANAGER - TRUE MEDICAL IMAGING https://www.careerspage.com/theagency212/job/RY7W7RWX
CT TECHNOLOGIST - TRUE MEDICAL IMAGING https://www.careerspage.com/theagency212/job/Y6RWX9W5
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ASSISTANT SALES & EVENTS COORDINATOR EVERGREEN PARK
📌 📌
Apply Link: Account Manager
https://www.careerspage.com/theagency212/job/3W63VR78
ULTRASOUND TECHNOLOGIST - PEACE DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING https://www.careerspage.com/theagency212/job/Y6RWX9W5
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HEAVY DUTY MECHANIC - BARR NONE MECHANICAL https://www.careerspage.com/theagency212/job/63X6WWWR
MRI TECHNOLOGIST - TRUE MEDICAL IMAGING
You will build a strong team, drive performance, and deliver an exceptional customer experience, supported by EBH’s proven model and technical expertise. Apply Link: Branch Manager
MEDICAL OFFICE ASSISTANT - TRUE MEDICAL IMAGING https://www.careerspage.com/theagency212/job/5WR47783
Branch Manager
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Account Manager Build strong customer relationships in the Grande Prairie region by identifying opportunities, supporting customer needs, and providing accurate, up-to-date product information.
Material Handler responsible for shipping, receiving, and moving products safely and efficiently while maintaining an organized and tidy warehouse and stock environment. Apply Link: Material Handler
Customer Service Manager The Customer Service Manager plays a critical role in driving customer satisfaction, operational excellence, and team performance at the branch level. Apply Link: Customer Service Manager
Customer Service, Counter Sales - Electrical
https://www.careerspage.com/theagency212/job/8X9W499V
Primarily responsible for supporting customers at the counter, ensuring a positive in-person experience through accurate order entry, product support, and responsive service.
FUND DEVELOPMENT OFFICER - Grande Prairie Regional Hospital Foundation
Apply Link: Customer Service - Counter Sales
https://www.careerspage.com/theagency212/job/L435RR45
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Teacher Development and Support Coordinator The University of Alberta’s Northern Alberta Medical Program (NAMP) is expanding its team in Grande Prairie. t’s a fantastic opportunity for anyone seeking their next career chapter. For more details, please refer to the posting: Teacher Development and Support Coordinator
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Customer Service, Inside Sales - Electrical responsible for building positive relationships with customers and suppliers through generating accurate quotations, sales orders, and returns that align with organizational sales targets. Apply Link: Customer Service - Inside Sales
Assessment Administrator The University of Alberta’s Northern Alberta Medical Program (NAMP) is expanding its team in Grande Prairie. This full-time position offers excellent benefits and is located at the Northwestern Polytechnic Health Education Centre. It’s a fantastic opportunity for anyone seeking their next career chapter. For more details, please refer to the Assessment Administrator Posting
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Chamber Connection Federal investment supports Alberta's skilled trades workforce Additional funding was announced for The Educational Partnership Foundation's Trades Careers program, bringing total support for the initiative to nearly $5.7 million. The program helps youth pursue apprenticeship certification in Red Seal trades through work-based learning opportunities in Alberta and British Columbia. Expanding access to apprenticeship pathways will help strengthen Alberta's skilled labour pipeline and support industries facing ongoing workforce shortages, including construction, manufacturing and energy.
Alberta expands support for settlement and labour market integration programs The Government of Alberta released guidelines for applications under its 2026-27 Settlement and Integration Program. The funding includes programming intended to improve labour market attachment and workforce participation among newcomers. Eligible organizations can apply to deliver services that help individuals integrate into Alberta's labour market and communities. Learn more
Learn more
DEAM Idea Conference | October 6-8 The DEAM IDEA Conference brings together employers, disability inclusion leaders, service providers, job seekers, and industry experts to explore inclusive workplace practices and workforce opportunities. Join us October 6-8 at NAIT in Edmonton.
Quantum investment strengthens Alberta's competitive edge in emerging technologies The Government of Canada announced a $20.3 million investment to launch the Quantum Defence Innovation Secure Hub (DISH) in Calgary. The initiative will support collaboration between industry, academia, and government while creating opportunities in quantum technologies, aerospace, cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing.
Register today Learn more
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
A Letter from Candace Laing to Canadian Business Leaders Canada-U.S. trade talks have reached an impasse, and we find ourselves in new and uncharted territory. "Canadian businesses have shown remarkable resilience under immense pressure, and they will not relent now," says Candace Laing. "This will get tougher, but we know Canada can navigate it, if we’re united." Our focus now turns to the response: protecting Canadian businesses, workers and families and ensuring support reaches those who need it most. As always, it’s leaders on the front lines that are champions in national crises. The Canadian Chamber and our Chamber Network are mobilizing across regions and sectors, and we’re ready to play our part. Read the Full Letter Read Our Statement
Our Reaction to New Government Business Relief Measures The federal government announced new business relief measures today in response to the collapse in Canada-U.S. trade negotiations. "Government is now moving at the speed of business to address the current trade negotiation collapse," says our President and CEO Candace Laing in a new statement. "If the government did not prioritize speed, some businesses would not still be there by the time support rolls out." These measures should give businesses some much-needed breathing room. But immediate relief is only part of the response. We also need to focus on the longer-term pivot: helping businesses diversify their trading partners, sell more within Canada and equip their workers for the modern economy. Read Our Statement
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CHAMBER CONNECTION NEWSLETTER
EVEN MORE RESOURCES The Centre for Immigrant Research employer engagement workshop in Grande Prairie. The Centre for Immigrant Research is hosting an upcoming employer engagement workshop in Grande Prairie. The Centre has been working on the TAIGA RISE project to develop a draft Employer Toolkit for Northern Alberta, to support employers with the attraction, integration, and retention of newcomer employees. They are seeking feedback from approximately 5-7 local employers to help ensure the toolkit is practical and relevant for businesses in Northern Alberta. The session will take place on Thursday, August 27, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM in the Chamber of Commerce Board Room in Centre 2000, and refreshments will be provided. Additionally, participants will receive a gift card as an honorarium to thank them for their time. Registration Link: Attendee Registration – Fill out form
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!
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CHAMBER CONNECTION NEWSLETTER
Where you live shouldn’t determine your power bill A growing coalition of residents, businesses, organizations, and municipalities across Alberta, the Fair Electricity Distribution Alliance (FEDA), is raising awareness about the unfair electricity distribution rates experienced by many Albertans. Right now, residents, businesses, and municipalities in northern, east-central and southern Alberta pay significantly higher electricity distribution costs than the rest of the province. Households pay an average of $118 a month, compared to about $34 in non-impacted service areas. For many businesses, distribution fees can be nearly three times as high as in other service areas. Where you live shouldn’t determine your power bill. This is an issue of fairness; the disparity in electricity costs is putting impacted communities at a disadvantage. Read Full Article
Celebrate Alberta Day with free recreation and heritage experiences The City of Grande Prairie invites residents to swim, skate, play and explore local history with free community activities on Saturday, August 29 in celebration of Alberta Day. Residents can make a splash with free public swimming at Eastlink Centre and Aquatera Outdoor Pool, or take advantage of free access to the fitness centre, West Fraser Fieldhouse, walking and running track and squash courts at Eastlink Centre. Residents can also skate and meet members of the Grande Prairie Storm at Bonnetts Energy Centre. For those looking to explore local history, the Grande Prairie Museum and Reverend Forbes Homestead will also be open, with admission always free Learn More.
August Economic Development Newsletter
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: Individual Therapy Couples Therapy
Direct Billing Available to most Benefit Companies
Family Therapy BOOK A FREE CONSULT
587-297-3757 https://bsbcounselling.ca/
Brenden Bozlovitch MSW, RSW Owner/Mental Health Therapist
THE IMPRINT EVERY BODY CARRIES.
STRUCTURE MOVEMENT
Every body presents a differentcombination of structure, movement, capacity, history, adaptation and goals. Years of repetition shapestrength, skill and capacity. Our occupations place their own demands on the body. Training changes what the body can produce. Injury can change how we move long after the moment itself has passed. Recovery asks the body to adapt again. Genetics, ageing, environment, habit, stress, rest and experience all play their part, continuing to shape a physical history that belongs to no one else. What presents today is the result of those influences interacting over time—and that combination is unique to every patient. This is why two individuals can arrive with pain in the same area and require very different approaches to care. Why the site of a symptom is often only one part of what needs to be understood. Why where the body feels a limitation may not be where it originates. At HillStar Integrated Health, individualized care begins by asking a larger question:
Whatis shapingthe waythis person moves, feels and functions today?
GOALS
Integration isnot defined by thenumber ofservices offered within a practice. It is what happens when those perspectives are committed to informing one another. Each discipline brings a different clinical lens to the same person. One finding may reinforce another, add context, or change how the broader clinical picture is understood. Integration allows those perspectives to inform one another, guiding decisions about patient care with the benefit of what each discipline has contributed.
ADAPTATION HISTORY
HillStar’s goalis nottofit a person intoa treatment. It is to understand enough of their imprint to determine what belongs in their care.
HILLSTAR INTEGRATED HEALTH Chiropractic · Physiotherapy · MassageTherapy Advanced Assessment & Treatment Technology 780-539-1261 · info@hillstar.ca · HillStar.ca Online Booking: hillstar.janeapp.com FOLLOW US
@HillStarHealthGP
EXPLORE HILLSTAR
Canada's Venture Capital Landscape 2026
BDC's report on the venture capital landscape in Canada provides an overview of how capital is shifting across stages, sectors and geographies, as well as what is driving investor behaviour in Canada, and much more.
Download the report to learn more
Chamber Connection
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EMAIL US : MAX@GPCHAMBER.COM
AUGUST 2026 ISSUE NO.61