From the Editors
Welcome to the Chamber Connection—your weekly 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
Business& Advocacy
Minister Nate Horner Visits Grande Prairie
Lastweek,wehadtheopportunitytowelcomeAlberta’sMinister of Finance, Nate Horner, for an important discussion on the challengesandopportunitiesshapingourregion.
The conversation focused on strengthening collaboration between government, business, and community, with key topics including:
✔ ExpansionoftheHighway40Xregionalconnector
✔ Enhancing skilled trades training through Northwestern Polytechnic
✔ Addressing inequities in electrical distribution across our region
✔ Advocacy for provincial support for the Maskwa Medical Centre
We thank Minister Horner for his time, and for engaging in meaningful dialogue about the priorities that matter to NorthwesternAlberta.Theseconversationsarevitalaswework together to ensure our region continues to grow, attract investment, and support the workforce and infrastructure we need.
Strong partnerships between government and business lead to strongercommunities—andwe’reproudtobeatthetable.
WED., JULY 09 | 1:00PM
SMART HUB INSURANCE LTD
Ribbon Cutting - Smart Hub Insurance Ltd
Joinusaswecelebratethegrandopening ofSmartHubInsuranceLtd!
Enjoyalightlunch,meettheteam,and checkouttheirnewspaceindowntown GrandePrairie.CongratulationstoSmart HubInsuranceonthisexcitingmilestone— we’reproudtowelcomeanotherlocally investedbusinesstoourgrowing community.
Big things are breaking ground!
WejoinedtheteambehindMaskwaMedical Centerastheyofficiallybrokegroundonwhatwill soonbeanexcitingadditiontoourregion’s healthcarelandscape.
Thisnewfacilitymarksamajorstepforwardin accessiblecareandspecializedservicesforour community—andwecan’twaittoseeitopenits doors.
Congratulationstoeveryoneinvolvedinmaking thisvisionareality.Staytunedformoreupdates asconstructionprogresses!
Our Most Recent Event!
BusinessAfter5–HostedbyFourPointsby SheratonGrandePrairie
Whatafantasticeveningatlastnight’sBusinessAfter 5Mixer!AbigthankyoutoFourPointsbySheraton GrandePrairieforhostingandwelcomingusintotheir beautifulspace.
Thefoodwasexcellent,thecandytablewasahit,and itwasgreattoseesomanyfamiliarfacesalongside newconnectionsinthecrowd.Theroomwasfullof conversation,energy,andmeaningfulnetworkingeverythingthesemixersareallabout.
Eventslikethisareareminderofthestrengthand spiritofourregionalbusinesscommunity.When businessescometogether,greatthingshappen.
Connecting Alberta's Workforce with Opportunity
WorkNWAlbertaisapowerfulplatformdesignedtobridgethe gap between employers and job seekers across the province. By offering tailored solutions for both businesses and individuals, Work NW 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 processandhelpsyoufindtheperfectmatch.
Learn more about how Work NW Alberta can help your businessorcareertoday!Clickheretoexplore.
Fueling Innovation & Business Growth in the Peace Region
TheGrandePrairieRegional InnovationNetwork(GPRIN)is dedicatedtoempowering entrepreneurs,startups,and businessesbyprovidingthe resources,mentorship,and connectionsneededtodrive innovationandsuccess. Whetheryou'redevelopinga newproduct,scalingyour business,orlookingforexpert guidance,GPRINsupports localinnovatorsthrough fundingopportunities, networking,andbusiness developmentservices.
DiscoverhowGPRINcanhelp takeyourideastothenext level!Learnmorehere.
Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance
CHAMBER MEMBERS HAVE ACCESS TO CANADA'S LARGEST EMPLOYEE BENEFITS PLAN TARGETED TO SMALLTO-MEDIUM SIZED BUSINESS.
Operatingsincetheearly1970s,ChambersPlannowprovidescoveragetoover 30,000 firms like yours. Regardless of the size of your organization Chambers Plancanbecustomizedtomeetyourneeds,requestafreequotetodayandlet usshowyouhowwecancustomizeaplanforyou.
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
Yourbusinessisunique,soyourbusinessneedsuniquecoverage.Thatiswhya localChambersPlanadvisoradministersyouremployeehealthbenefitsplan.A Chambers Plan advisor is a member of your community. Whether you want to adddentalcoverage,changeorupdate,orsimplyaskaquestion,youradvisoris thereforyou.
Customizable
Coveragecanbetailoredtosuityourneeds.Customizeyourplanselectingfrom awiderangeofcoverage–life,health,dental,disability,criticalillnessandmuch more!Aswell,ChambersPlanmembershaveaccesstomy-benefits®anonline management tool. This tool allows you to administer your plan anywhere, anytime.
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!
Don’t miss your LAST CHANCE to check out the 2025 Playhouses – where dreams become reality andmagic fills the air! This year, we’re thrilled to announce 5 amazing prizes and 5 lucky winners –including 4 custom-built playhouses and a pair of Air Canada tickets for an unforgettable getaway!
Join us on July 5th at Canadian Tire for our Last Chance Event and get one final look at these incredible playhouses before the winners are drawn!
Enjoy a FREE Charity BBQ hosted by the Rotary Club of Grande Prairie 2day FM will be live on location, bringing the energy and excitement! FREE draw for a kids’ bike – enter on-site!
Andthe best part? Every ticket you buy helps support young families in our community. Together, we can make a difference – one playhouse at a time.
Ticket sales end July 6th at midnight! Don’t wait – your chance to win and give back is now!
Chamber Connection
Business After 5 Mixer
Town of Sexsmith
TTheGrandePrairie&DistrictChamberofCommerceisexcitedtowelcomeourmembersandinvitedgueststoanupcomingBusiness After5MixerhostedbytheTownofSexsmith.
Thisafter-hoursnetworkingeventistheperfectopportunitytoconnectwithfellowbusinessprofessionalsinarelaxedandwelcoming environment.Enjoycomplimentaryappetizers,refreshments,andachancetowinsomegreatdoorprizes—allwhileexperiencingthe uniquesettingofthehistoricgrainelevatorindowntownSexsmith.
Whetheryou'relookingtogrowyournetwork,exploreacharminglocalvenue,orsimplyenjoyaneveningofcasualconversation,this Mixerisagreatwaytoengagewiththeregionalbusinesscommunity.
Don’t miss out—mark your calendar for Thursday, July 31, bring your business cards, and get ready for an evening of connection and conversationfrom5:00-7:00PM!
Forquestionsormoreinformation,pleasecontactourofficeat(780)532-5340oremailinfo@gpchamber.com.Thereisnocosttoattend, butregistrationisrequiredforcateringandcapacitypurposes.
NOMINATIONS for our 2025 Grande Prairie Chamber Business Awards of Distinction are now open!
Clickontheboxbelowtonominateabusinessforoneofourawardcategories.
Categoriesandcriteria.
NOMINATEABUSINESS
Formoreinformation,pleasecontactTomPura,CommunicationsandPublicRelations,byemailtom@gpchamber.com
Watch our Events Calendar, our web page https://www.grandeprairiechamber.com/sbw/ and this newsletter for updates on Small BusinessWeek2025.
Eventswillinclude:
WomeninBusinessLunch-October21
LunchwithRotary-October22
GrandePrairieChamberAwardsofDistinction-October23
FallBusinessShowcase-October30
Planningisnowtakingplaceandsponsorshipopportunitiesareavailableforoureventsandawards.Pleasecontactourofficebyphone at780-532-5340oremailinfo@gpchamber.com
Upcoming Events at Nitehawk Year Round Adventure Park
July126:00PM-8:30PM-BackyardBrewsandBitesNitehawkSnowmaker'sLounge-BackyardBrewsand Bitesoffersaneveningofelevateddiningandcraftbeer,with viewsoftheWapitiRiverValley.Thisexclusiveevent,in collaborationwithGrainBinBrewing,featuresathoughtfully curatedplatedmenupairedwithselectcraftbeerstoenhance yourculinaryexperience.
Ticketsavailableathttps://gonitehawk.com/2025-backyardbrews-and-bites/
July246:30PM-9:30PM-SipandStretch:AForagedTea and Yoga Experience - Nitehawk Year-Round Adventure Park - Join us for a unique summer evening of connection and adventure at Nitehawk, in collaboration with A Wilder Calm. Our Tea Foraging and Yoga Night takes place on Wednesday,July24from6:30to9:30PMandoffersaperfect blendofnature,movement,andmindfulness.
Tickets available at https://gonitehawk.com/2025-sip-andstretch/
September20-Doorsopenat5:00PM-29thAnnualComedyNite FundraiserinSupportofNitehawkYearRoundAdventurePark presentedbySolutionServicesInc.-TheBowesatBonnet'sEnergy Centre-ComedyNightisthelargestfundraiserforNitehawkYear-Round AdventurePark,withallproceedsgoingtowardsFacilityImprovementsfor the2025/26winterseason.Thisyear'seventfeaturesCanadian ComediansDrewBehm,CelesteLampa,andKevinStobo.Comeoutand enjoyarelaxing&funeveningoflaughsandtastyfood;allwhilebiddingon ourgreatOnlinesilentauction&in-personliveauctionitems,gettinginon oneofourRaffles.
Ticketsavailableathttps://gonitehawk.com/comedynite-2/
Passenger rail engagement
The provincial government has been talking with Albertans to gain their perspectivesonthedevelopmentofAlberta’sPassengerRailMasterPlan. The Passenger Rail Master Plan will look decades ahead and identify concreteactionstobuildtheoptimalpassengerrailsystemfortheprovince.
Getinvolved
TheprovinceishostingavirtualsessiononThursday,June26from7:00-8:30 PM to share an update on the development of the Passenger Rail Master Plan.
Registerfortheonlinesessionbyclickinghere: https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/e81f2fb4-b392-455a-ade47f5f9518d67d@3667e201-cbdc-48b3-9b42-5d2d3f16e2a9
Getinformed
ThePassengerRailMasterPlanwillassessthefeasibilityofpassengerrail intheprovince,includingregional,commuterandhigh-speedservices.
The government is exploring a variety of delivery options including public, private or a combination of both in order to develop the optimal passenger railsystemforAlberta.
LearnmoreaboutAlberta’svisionforpassengerrail
Drilling accelerator to advance responsible energy innovation
Alberta’sgovernmentisinvestingover$20millioninTIER fundingtolaunchtheAlbertaDrillingAccelerator,anew initiativetohelpcompaniesbringcutting-edgedrilling technologies—likegeothermal,carboncapture,andcritical minerals—tomarketfaster.DeliveredthroughEmissions ReductionAlberta,theprogramsupportsreal-worldtesting, reducesemissions,andreinforcesAlberta’sglobal leadershipinresponsibleenergyproduction.
ThisinitiativealignswithACCpolicyPromotingtheOil SandsastheWorld’sMostESGResponsibleOilSource andhighlightsAlberta’songoingroleinenergyinnovation andsustainability.
Readtheannouncement
Cutting red tape for Alberta's oil rigs
AlbertahassignedaMemorandumofAgreementwiththe CanadianAssociationofEnergyContractorstoallow servicerigconvoystobypassVehicleInspectionStations usingtheDrivewyzepre-clearanceprogram.Thismove reducesdelaysandfuelcosts,supportsjobcreation,and strengthensresponsibleenergydevelopment—potentially settingamodelforotherprovinces.
Readtheannouncement DrivewyzePreClear
Upcoming webinar: Employers and the Class 1 Learning Pathway Grant
TheWorkforceConsultantteamispleasedtohostan informationsessiononthenewEmploymentPathway Grant,whichprovidesfundingtosupporttraining,skill development,attraction,andretentionofClass1 commercialdriversinAlberta.Aguestpresenterfrom AlbertaTransportationandEconomicCorridorswilldiscuss thegrant,whichsupportsemployerstoinvestintheir workforceandsecuretrainingfornewClass1drivers.The sessionwillprovideanoverviewofthegrant,theapplication process,andprovideanopportunityforattendeestoask questions.
July15,1:30–3:00pm RegisterNow
Quick Website Fixes to Stop Losing Sales
fyourwebsiteisn’tbringinginsalesaroundtheclock,it’snotdoingitsjob. Inthiswebinar,you’lllearn4practicalwaystoturnyourwebsiteintoyour hardest-working salesperson, so it’s making you money whether you’re hardatworkoronvacationwithoutcellservice.
If you’re a business owner looking to turn more website clicks into customers,thissessionisyournextsmartmove.
RegisterToday
Grow your Business as a Indigenous Entrepreneur
InhonourofIndigenousHistoryMonth,thisblogexploresthestrength,purpose,andinnovation behindIndigenousentrepreneurshipinAlberta.Fromnavigatingsystemicbarrierstobuilding businessesrootedincultureandcommunity,Indigenousentrepreneursareredefiningsuccesson theirowntermsandcreatedlastingimpactacrossindustries.
ReadHere
Discover How Showing Up Authentically Builds Stronger Businesses
As part of our Pride Month content, this heartfelt blog by Samantha Royleexploresthepower—andrisks—ofshowingupauthenticallyasa 2SLGBTQI+entrepreneur.Fromvisibilityandidentitytocommunityand resilience,Samanthaoffersanhonestreflectiononwhatittrulymeansto thrivewhilebeingoutinbusiness.
ReadHere
Read This Before You Burn Out—You Deserve to Thrive
AspartofourIndigenousHistoryMonthfeatures,thispowerfulpieceby RobynSoulier-Ritchotsharesthelivedexperienceofburnoutthroughan Indigenous lens. It’s a must-read for entrepreneurs seeking a more balanced, grounded, and intentional way to build their business—start withyourwellbeing.
ReadHere
2025 Chamber Golf Scramble presented by Pomeroy Lodging
REGISTRATIONSNEARLYFULL!
Thursday,August21,2025 GrandePrairieGolf&CountryClub
Joinusforour2025ChamberGolfScramblepresentedbyPomeroyLodging!
ExclusiveMemberevent-ChamberMembersandinvitedguestsonly.
YourregistrationIncludes: 18HolesofGolfwithCart TexasScramble-aformatforANYskilllevel! Breakfast,Lunch&Dinner Prizes,FunandLaughs
Cost:$185+GSTperPlayer
Date:August21,2025
Location:GrandePrairieGolf&CountryClub
Registrationstartsat8:00AM,shotgunstartat10:00AM Registerasanindividual,asapair,orasateamoffour!
SupportOurPrizeTable!
We’reinvitingourmemberstocontributetoourChamberGolfScrambleprizetable!Giftcardsmakeforeasy,flexibleteamprizes(ideal:4perteam, valuedat$25–$50each),butwealsowelcomepromotionalitems,swag,oranythingfunyou'dliketocontribute.
Todonate,filloutourquickformhere:PRIZEFORM Drop-offorpickupdetailswillbearrangedaftersubmission.
Wanttoshowcaseyourbusinessonthecourse?
SponsorshipopportunitiesareNOWSOLDOUT!Tolearnmore,reachouttoLeahattheChamberofficebyphoneat780-532-5340 oremailleah@gpchamber.com
We’llseeyouonthecourse!
WE
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.
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
Have a deal you want to promote?
Chambermemberscansubmitspecialoffersonlyavailabletofellow members,fosteringlocalbusinesssupportandcollaboration.
Have a deal to share? Email max@gpchamber.com to get your exclusiveofferfeatured!
July 2025
Chamber Member Shout-out
MILESTONEMEMBERS!
15Years
ApexSecurityInc
5Years
UltimateEnergyControlsInc
Dr.PhoneFix
NEWMEMBERS
Artistic-IshPainand Projects
BeyondtheLens
Photography
AwokeWild
“Behind every strong community is a network of resilient, passionate local businesses..”
TinyStarsDayCare
Joined:June24,2025
AwarmwelcometoTinyStarsDayCare! We'reproudtosupportbusinesseshelping childcareanddevleopmentacrossour region.
ACounterFull
Joined:April30,2025
We'reexcitedtowelcomeJeanieRossandA CounterFulltoourChambernetwork!Looking forwardtoseeingthisbusinessgrowinour community
TrojanSafety
Joined:May11,2025
SayhellotoTrojanSafety,ledbytheirmissionof safetyinourregion!We'reexcitedtowelcomeyouto theChambercommunity.
DAN STOJANOVIC
ALI MOSEN (OWNER)
JEANIE ROSS (OWNER)
TheJobBoard
Lookingforatrustedlocalbusinesstogetajobdone?Whetheryouneedprofessionalservices,skilledtrades,marketinghelp,or businesssupport,ourChamberMemberClassifiedshelpconnectyouwiththerightprovidersfromournetwork!
Level3EarlyChildhoodEducator
ToassisttheOwnerintheplanning, implementationandmanagementofprograms. Toprovideasafeenvironmentandqualitycare forchildrenandfamilies.
CommunityandStudentEngagement Coordinator
Thispositionwillberesponsibleforestablishing andmaintainingrelationshipswithcommunity partnersinnorthernAlbertaandestablishingor sourcingoutopportunitiesforstudentstoengage withcommunities.
Posting:
https://apps.ualberta.ca/careers/posting/2352
RegionalRelationshipDevelopment
9-monthcontractpositiontosupportregional relationshipdevelopment,community engagement,earlyassessmentofentrepreneurs andinnovators,foranorganizationthatfocuses onbringinginnovativetechnologiesand knowledge-basedideastomarket.
Posting: my.sharepoint.com/regionaldevelopment
SocialMediaManagement&Website ManagementServices
Weareseekingaqualifiedcontractororagency tomanageoursocialmediaplatformsand website.
Posting: my.sharepoint.com/socialmediamanagement
Toensurethattheprogrammeetsthechildren’s physical,emotional,social,andintellectual needs.
ToEnsurethatallprogramsremainin compliancewithLicensing,Health andFireregulations
Pleasesendyourresumeandcoverletterto info@tinystars.caorfeelfreetocallusat +16395971072moreinformation.
TeacherSupportAdministrativeAssistant
Thispositionwillassistwithfacultyrecruitment andsupportandwillprovidesupporttoboththe TeacherSupportLeadandResearchLeadwith NAMPaswellastherelevantcounterpartsin EdmontonattheMDProgramoffice.
Posting: https://apps.ualberta.ca/careers/posting/2353
ENERGY INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
Things you may have missed this week!
WE’RE IN THE GAME!
TheCanadianAssociationofPetroleumProducers(CAPP) applaudsthecompletionofthefirstphaseoftheLNGCanada projectanditsfirstshipment—amajormilestonethatwillallow Canadiannaturalgastoreachinternationalmarkets.Asthe largestprivateinvestmentinCanadianhistory,thisproject positionsourcountryasakeyglobalexporterofliquefied naturalgas(LNG),deliveringeconomicbenefitstoIndigenous communities,BritishColumbians,andCanadiansacrossthe country.
Whilethisachievementisworthcelebrating,italso underscoresCanada’suntappedpotentialasaglobalenergy superpower.TheemergingLNGindustrycouldtransform Canada’sWestCoastintoasignificantenergyexporthub— onethatsuppliessecureenergytoourtradingpartnersand fuelseconomicgrowthathome.Bydevelopingthisnewexport sector,Canadacancreatethousandsofjobs,foster substantialIndigenousparticipation,andattractbillionsinnew investment.
TheLNGCanadaprojectaloneisexpectedtogenerate$23 billioninroyaltiesfortheB.C.governmentoverits40-year lifespan.AccordingtotheMacdonald-LaurierInstitute, buildingafacilityofsimilarscalecontributes$4.5billion annuallytonationalGDPduringconstructionandcreates morethan35,000jobs
WithglobaldemandforLNGprojectedtogrowby60%by 2040—drivenbyeconomicexpansioninAsia, decarbonizationofheavyindustryandtransport,andthe riseofenergy-intensivetechnologieslikeartificial intelligence—Canadahasacriticalopportunitytolead asaglobalsupplierofchoicenow.
Nowweneedtochartaplanforhowwecanwin.More customers,moreshipments,moreLNGexportfacilities meansmorejobsforCanadians,moreopportunitiesfor Indigenouspartnerships,andamoreeconomically independentcountry.Astrongenergysectorisessential toaddressingtoday’schallenges—fromaffordability andenergysecuritytolong-termnationalprosperity.
-LisaBaiton,CAPPPresidentandCEO
Chamber Connection
Alberta launches the Alberta Next panel
Premier Danielle Smith will chair the Alberta Next panel, which will consult Albertans this summer on ways to strengthen provincial autonomy and protect Alberta’s economy. The panel—comprising leaders from business, government, and academia—will explore topics including an Alberta Pension Plan, provincial policing, and tax collection.
Learnmore
Over $10.9M invested to help Alberta businesses scale and innovate
PrairiesCan is investing more than $10.9 million in seven Alberta businesses and organizations to drive growth through digital adoption, AI innovation, and advanced manufacturing. Recipients include RAM Elevators, samdesk, and Promise Robotics—each poised to expand operations,increaseproductivity,andstrengthenAlberta’s innovationeconomy.
Learnmore
Applications open for the AI compute access fund
TheGovernmentofCanadahaslaunchedthe$300million AIComputeAccessFundtohelpsmallandmedium-sized businesses access high-performance computing for AI development. As part of the $2B Sovereign AI Compute Strategy, the fund supports Canadian innovation and the growthofacompetitive,homegrownAIindustry.
Learnmore
Expanding collegiate schools to meet workforce development
The Government of Alberta is investing $27.5 million to expand collegiate schools, helping students build handson skills and pursue direct pathways into high-demand careers. Beginning in the 2025/26 school year, 16 new schools will offer specialized programs in aviation, skilled trades,technology,agriculture,andmore.
This initiative complements ACC’s policy on Creating an EffectiveWorkforcefortheChangingEconomy,whichcalls for education and training systems that are responsive to labour market needs. It also supports the goals of our Talent Development Task Force, focused on aligning education and employment to meet Alberta’s evolving workforcedemands.
Learnmore
For businesses seeking up-to-date trade insights and tools:
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)
Canada-U.S. trade talks resume, DST removed
On Friday, June 26, President Trump announced via Truth Social the suspension of “ALL discussions on trade” between Canada and the U.S. in response to Canada’s Digital Services Tax (DST), and that a new tariff rate for Canada will be announced within seven days. President Trump also refers to protections for Canada’s dairy products, although the main statedreasonforsuspensionoftradetalkswastheDST.Latein the evening on Sunday, June 29, Canada announced that it would be repealing the DST and that bilateral talks would resumewiththegoalofadealbeingreachedbyJuly21.
TheCanadianChamber’sstatementontheremovaloftheDST and resumption of bilateral talks can be viewed here. The CanadianChamberhasbeenconsistentinopposingCanada’s DSTsinceitsinception.YoucanviewourJune12jointletterto PM Carney here. In recent weeks, we have also been very active on this issue in the media (e.g. Globe and Mail, Politico, FinancialPost,CBC,etc.).TheCanadianChamberteamwillbe closely following developments and will be engaging the governmentontheresumedtradetalks.
Additionally, in anticipation of the U.S. government’s forthcoming domestic consultation on CUSMA, the Canadian ChamberwillgatherinputonmajorCUSMAreviewprioritiesin the coming days. For your awareness, you can review the Chamber’ssubmissiontothegovernmentofCanada’sOctober 2024consultationhere
The One Big Beautiful Bill and its implications for Canadian businesses
OnMay22,theU.S.HouseofRepresentativespassedtheOneBig Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), a major budget reconciliation bill that seekstoadvancethePresident’seconomicandsocialagenda.The OBBBAthenmovedtotheSenateforconsideration,whereSenate Majority Leader John Thune set a goal of passing the Senate version of the OBBBA by July 4. Although there has been some skepticism that the OBBBA will be passed by this self-imposed deadline,sincereturningfromtheNATOSummit,PresidentTrump has refocused his attention on the OBBBA and strongly reiterated hiscallfortheBilltobepassedbyJuly4.Thelatestversionofthe OBBBAtextcanbeviewedhere
There are key aspects of the OBBBA that members should be awareof:
Modifications to major tax credits. The OBBBA eliminates or modifies many advanced manufacturing and clean energy tax credits (e.g. Advanced Manufacturing Production Credit, Third PartySalesofEligibleCredits,etc.),andintroducesmajornew incentives for U.S. domestic manufacturing. The Act will significantly affect the U.S. renewable energy industry and adversely affect the ability to develop and finance various renewable energy projects. This could have second order effectsforCanadianbusinesseswithinimpactedsupplychains. YoucanviewasummaryoftheOBBBA’svarioustaxprovisions here.
Section 899 (“revenge tax”) dropped. On June 26, Secretary Bessent announced the removal of Section 899 from the OBBBA, and that the G7 countries have agreed to exempt the U.S.fromapplyinga15percentminimumcorporatetaxrate.The G7statementcanbeviewedhere.TheremovalofSection899 is a major win for Canadian businesses. The provision would haveimposedpunitiveU.S.withholdingtaxesoncountrieswith digitalservicestaxes,likeCanada.TheChamberhadbeenvery active on Section 899, including in our advocacy with policy makersinWashingtonD.C.
MORE RESOURCES FOR BUSINESSES
AI for SMBs: A Free Google course!
DiscoverGrowwithGoogle'slatestfreecoursedesignedtohelpsmallbusinessesharnessthepowerofAI:AIforSMBs.
Withthisnewcourse,smallbusinessownerscangethands-onexperience,promptingGeminitobrainstormideasandspeeduptheirdailywork tasks.CraftedwithGoogleexperts,thiscoursewillcutthroughtheAIjargonandrevealhowGoogle'sAI-poweredtoolscanhelpyou:
SaveTime:Automatetasksandstreamlineoperations.
WowCustomers:Deliverpersonalizedandengagingexperiences.
BoostYourBottomLine:Drivemoresalesandgrowyourrevenue. Don’tmissout—unlockpracticalAItoolsforyourbusinesstodaywithAIforSMBs,freefromGoogle.
LearnMore
Empower your businesses to be cyber resilient
Cybersecurity isn’t a nice-to-have — it’s a must. Small businesses are increasingly being targeted by cybercriminals, and staying protected is criticaltomaintainingcustomertrustandbusinesssuccess.
Take action today by enrolling in our free cybersecurity course, developed in partnership with Mastercard and the Toronto Association of Business Improvement Areas (TABIA). This course is designed to give you the knowledge and tools you need to strengthen your business againstgrowingdigitalthreats.
Whatyou’llgain:
Practicalwaystosecureyouroperations
Trainingstrategiestohelpyourteamspotandstopthreats
Bestpracticesforkeepingcustomerdatasafe
Protectyourbusinessbeforeathreatbecomesaproblem—signuptoday.
Havesomebignewstoshare?Whetheryou're rebranding,rollingoutinnovativetech,reachinga majormilestone,ormakingwavesinthebusiness community—wewanttohearaboutit!
Youraccomplishmentsdeservethespotlight,and we'reheretohelpyoucelebrateandinspireothers.
Sendyourupdatestomax@gpchamber.comand getfeaturedinanupcomingeditionofThe ChamberConnection!
Feedback to help plan the 2026 municipal budget
The City of Grande Prairie is now gathering feedback to help plan the 2026 municipal budget—and we want to hear from you!
Shareyourideasandprioritiestohelpguidedecisionsonprojectslike:
Asphaltcracksealing
Fixedtransitroutes
Large-scaleevents
Newplayground
On-demandtransit
Snowclearing Treeplanting
Participatenow:bit.ly/3SvTTUF
Check out engage.cityofgp.com/budget2026 for more information about how youcansharefeedback.
City exploring strategic alliance to strengthen Grande Prairie Airport
TheCityofGrandePrairieisworkingtoenterintodiscussionswithEdmonton International Airport (YEG), in consultation with the Grande Prairie Airport Commission, to develop a strategic alliance that strengthens regional connectivity, enhances operations and unlocks new economic opportunities throughtheGrandePrairieAirport(GPA).
Council has established a list of principles on which a memorandum of understanding would be developed including the City remaining the sole owneroftheGrandePrairieAirport.ThisalliancesupportsAlberta’svisionto strengthen economic corridors by connecting communities, enhancing the movementofgoodsandpeople,andattractingnewinvestment.Byexpanding regionalairserviceandlogisticscapacity,GrandePrairieispositionedtoplay agreaterroleinanationallysignificanttransportationnetwork.
Transportation, transit and facility
impacts for Grande Prairie Triathlon July 5,
6
TheCityofGrandePrairieadvisesresidentsof roadclosures,transitroutechangesand temporaryEastlinkCentrefacilityimpactsdueto theGrandePrairieTriathlontakingplaceSunday, July6.
TheEastlinkCentreservesasthecentralvenue forthetriathlon.
Toaccommodateeventpreparations,theWest FraserFieldhouseclosestothepublicat3:30p.m. onSaturday,July5fortheathletecarb-load dinner.Theaquaticsareaclosesat6:30p.m.the sameeveningforeventsetup.
Formoreinformation,visitcityofgp.com/triathlon.
