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Chamber CONNECTION

Your Weekly Connection to The Chamber

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FEATURED PHOTO: SMALL BUSINESS WEEK 2024 - CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

OCTOBER 2025 ISSUE NO.22 GRANDEPRAIRECHAMBER.COM

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Upcoming Events!

Upcoming Events! 10.21

2025 SBW Women in Business Luncheon

10.22

2025 SBW Lunch with Rotary

10.23

2025 SBW Chamber Awards of Distinction

10.24

SBW Breakfast - Presented by Community Futures

10.25

SBW Wrap-up Business Showcase Mixer

business.grandeprairiechamber.com/event-calendar

Chamber Awards of Distinction FROM LOCAL STRENGTH TO GLOBAL IMPACT

The Awards of Distinction honour the remarkable achievements of our local business community. This premier evening features the presentation of awards across multiple categories, celebrating the vision, creativity, and dedication that drive Northwest Alberta forward. Alongside the awards presentations, hear from a panel of local industry experts representing the Agricultural industry — as they share perspectives on resilience, opportunity and growth in our region. Join us for an evening of celebration, conversation, and inspiration as we spotlight the accomplishments of our nominees and award recipients.

WATER WORLDS An Indigenous Lens on Our Planet’s Most Precious Resource A groundbreaking new documentary series is making waves across Canada and beyond — and it has deep ties to our own region. Water Worlds invites audiences to experience the breathtaking underwater worlds of our oceans, lakes, and wetlands while exploring the fragile ecosystems that sustain life on our planet. Narrated in Cree by the legendary Tantoo Cardinal, Water Worlds brings forward the “two-eyed seeing” approach — weaving Indigenous knowledge together with Western science to deepen our understanding of water and its critical role in our world. The result is a 13-part series that is as visually stunning as it is thoughtprovoking. The project is led by writer, director, and executive producer Len Morrisette of C.I.A. Solutions, an Indigenous-owned film and advertising company. Joining him is Ryan Dalgleish, a Grande Prairie-born filmmaker and partner at C.I.A. Solutions. Together with producers Kerriann Cardinal and Hilary Pryor, and an awardwinning team of underwater cinematographers, they have created a series that has already gained national and international attention. Viewers can watch Water Worlds in both English and Cree on APTN, or stream it on APTN Lumi. Its reach is expanding globally, having been licensed for broadcast in Australia and adopted by school districts across Canada — including here in Grande Prairie — as an educational tool for both environmental awareness and Indigenous knowledge.

SERIES THAT DELVES INTO OUR

planet’s fragile aquatic ecosystems

For Morrisette and the production team, the impact goes beyond the screen. Collaborating with universities, NGOs, and community partners across the country, the series has already become a catalyst for dialogue about conservation and reconciliation. Morrisette’s work on Water Worlds even led to his induction into the Royal Canadian Geographical Society. From Canada’s wetlands to its coastal waters, the series reveals how we are all connected by water — and why protecting it matters more than ever.

Water reminds humanity that we are not the most important thing. We are a part of a greater whole

https://aptnlumi.ca/home

Learn more about the series at www.waterworlds.ca or stream it on APTN Lumi

Chamber Connection

Local Artists. Big Exposure.

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

CHAMBER CONNECTION NEWSLETTER

Our Most Recent Event! County of Grande Prairie No. 1 Election Open House Thank you to everyone who joined us at Centre 2000 to connect with the candidates running to represent their wards. The conversations were lively, the questions thoughtful, and the discussions meaningful — a true reflection of the engagement and care that strengthen our communities. A special thank you to all the candidates who took the time to share their vision and priorities for the County. Your commitment to dialogue and open conversation is what helps drive progress in our region. Events like these remind us that when residents, businesses, and leaders come together, we build stronger connections and a brighter future for the entire Grande Prairie region.

More photos @

Chamber Connection

ALBERTA CALLED: A Bold New Push to Attract Skilled Talent to NW Alberta WORK NW ALBERTA – a workforce development initiative of The City of Grande Prairie, The County of Grande Prairie, Municipal District of Greenview, Grande Prairie and District Chamber of Commerce and Northwestern Polytechnic - has officially launched ALBERTA CALLED, a dynamic new ad campaign aimed at attracting skilled workers to the Grande Prairie–Greenview corridor. Running thru the summer and fall, this regional effort builds on the success of the province’s award-winning Alberta is Calling campaign and shifts from awareness to action —connecting workers with high-demand opportunities in our growing industries. The campaign spotlights current job openings for truck drivers, mechanics, and plant operators—critical roles that are essential to our energy, transportation, and industrial sectors. As the campaign evolves, ad copy and creative will be refreshed to reflect shifting labour force priorities, with the potential to highlight other high-need vocations such as nurses, teachers, and skilled trades. Through targeted outreach in Alberta, Ontario, and British Columbia, ALBERTA CALLED showcases not only the career potential in NW Alberta but also the exceptional lifestyle the region offers. To reach the right talent, the campaign is running across Rogers Sports Media platforms (including digital, podcasts, and geotargeted content), along with Meta and LinkedIn. It also drives traffic to worknwalberta.ca, a hub where job seekers can explore real opportunities and learn more about life in the region. Want to get involved? It’s easy. · Follow, like, and share ALBERTA CALLED content on your social channels · Post your job openings to Indeed (automatically integrated with worknwalberta.ca) · Amplify the message in your own recruitment and promotion efforts Let’s work together to fill the roles that power our communities. Alberta Called—Grande Prairie- Greenview answers. For details or materials, contact: info@worknwalberta.ca

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!

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Chamber Connection

Strengthening North American Ag trade

Strengthening ties, energy security in Montana Minister of Affordability and Utilities Nathan Neudorf will travel to Montana to strengthen cross-border energy relationships

Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation RJ Sigurdson will travel to Morelia, Michoacán, Mexico to attend the 34th Tri-National Agricultural Accord. To enhance trade relations between Canada, the United States and Mexico, Minister RJ Sigurdson will participate in the Canadian delegation at the 2025 Tri-National Agricultural Accord from Oct. 16 to 18. The annual event is an opportunity for senior agricultural officials and industry representatives to work collectively on agricultural trade, market challenges and rural development issues. Alberta’s agri-food industry continues to be driven by agricultural exports, which were valued at $17.5 billion in 2024. The U.S. is Alberta’s top export market for agriculture and agri-food products, while Mexico is the fourth-largest export market. Read Full Article

As part of ongoing efforts to ensure an affordable, reliable and sustainable power grid, Minister Neudorf will travel to Montana from Oct. 14-17. While there, he will meet with government officials and decision makers to discuss ways to enhance grid reliability through electrical interconnection relationships like the Montana-Alberta Tie Line. Minister Neudorf will also attend the 2025 Big Sky Bright Future Economic Summit on Oct. 16 in Bozeman, MT to connect with industry leaders and experts on opportunities, challenges and technical developments in the electricity sector. Read Full Article

CHAMBER CONNECTION NEWSLETTER

Meet Business Link: Free Support for Alberta Entrepreneurs (+ Live Q&A) Join us October 20 to discover how Business Link can support you at every stage of your business journey. Learn about free services, access practical tools, and get your questions answered during a live Q&A with a Business Strategist. Register Today

From Idea to Launch: Small Business Startup Basics Join us October 22 to explore practical tools and strategies that help Alberta entrepreneurs solve challenges and grow their businesses. Learn how design thinking can spark creativity, identify opportunities, and drive sustainable growth in your business. Register Today

Unleash Your Side Hustle Potential Join us October 24, in partnership with Futurpreneur, to explore how to start a side hustle with confidence. Learn how to identify opportunities, validate ideas, pitch with clarity, and access mentorship and financing to turn your skills or passions into extra income. Register Today

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

Chamber Member Spotlight! Advantage Bookkeeping & Business Consulting Celebrating 16 Years of Empowering Local Businesses This

summer,

Advantage

Bookkeeping

Business Consulting celebrated 16 years of supporting small and medium-sized businesses in our region. What began as a bookkeeping service has grown into a trusted partner for entrepreneurs, providing not only full-service bookkeeping but also Certified Business and Executive Coaching tailored to the unique challenges of SMEs. Over the years, Advantage has become known for helping business owners gain clarity and confidence in their financial and leadership decisions. Most recently, the firm launched CFO Advisory Services powered by proprietary software. This new offering provides business leaders with access to strategic financial leadership—without the commitment of hiring a full-time CFO. The results speak for themselves: improved decision-making, stronger cash flow, greater profitability, and a clear roadmap for sustainable growth.

CHAMBER CONNECTION NEWSLETTER

At the heart of Advantage’s mission is a simple but powerful purpose: to empower SME leaders to build sustainable, scalable businesses. Through expert bookkeeping, business coaching, and executive mentoring, they help entrepreneurs cut through the overwhelm, take control of their numbers, and lead with clarity. Whether it’s navigating spreadsheets or overcoming decision fatigue, Advantage is there as a strategic partner to help businesses grow stronger. As part of their ongoing commitment to the business community, Advantage also offers free seminars, paid workshops, and a complimentary one-hour coaching session designed to help business owners address their most pressing challenges.

To learn more about Advantage Bookkeeping & Business Consult and their services, visit www.bigbizgrowth.com.

t f i tg ! c e es f r e on p he ved t ys r lo a u Alw r yo fo

Special O lympics Grande P rairie

FUNDSCRIPT Gift Card Fundraiser Click here for Order Form

Please consider supporting our group by using FundScrip, a fundraising program that helps us raise money simply by purchasing gift cards for everyday shopping Learn how you can (i.e. groceries, gas, gifts and support our organization household items). For instance, Email Jennifer at when you purchase a $100 grocery gift card, you receive the $100 card, mediasogp@gmail.com but in addition, a percentage is donated to our Special Olympics Grande Prairie fundraising campaign.

Orders Due: October 20, 2025

Chamber Connection

Chamber Member Shout-out Month: October

Our New Members! Kaynic Construction Ltd. Northstar Tint Inc. Ember Steakhouse Personal Chef D

Clip ‘n Climb Carnivore's Meat Shop Bayshore Home Health

Our Milestone Members! 35 YEARS Ken Sargent GMC Buick Ltd National Car & Truck Rentals/Carwash

30 YEARS A Bright Beginning Child Care Society

25 YEARS Tartan Auto Body Ltd.

20 YEARS Ideal Office Solutions Dave's Hauling Here2There Enterprises Ltd. Donovan Mills Cabinetry Telus Communications

15 YEARS KGB Bookkeeping Friesen Bain LLP Chartered Professional Accountants

10 YEARS Grande Prairie Florist Myers Benefit Consulting Cree8iv Ink Body Studio Ltd. West Grande Prairie Dental Citrus Catering Performance LED Lighting Ltd. Hayes Fry Law

5 YEARS Clean Break Cleaning Services 768537 Alberta Ltd.

CHAMBER CONNECTION NEWSLETTER

“Behind every strong community is a network of resilient, passionate local businesses..” PureLife Cleaning & Maintenance Joined: September 19, 2025 We’re excited to welcome Rana Al-Slaa and PureLife Cleaning and Maintenance to our Chamber network! Looking forward to seeing this dedicated local business continue to shine and make an impact in our community.

Kaynic Construction Ltd Joined: September 25, 2025 We’re excited to welcome Kaynic Construction Ltd. to our Chamber network! We look forward to seeing this dedicated team continue to build lasting impact in our region strengthening communities, creating opportunities, and contributing to the growth of Grande Prairie and area.

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!

» Employer Liaison (full-time, hybrid) The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in building and maintaining strong relationships with employers across Grande Prairie and surrounding communities. This position will be responsible for employer engagement, job promotion, providing training, program and funding application support, and supporting successful partnerships with community stakeholders. The EL also gathers and shares labour market information, supports job retention efforts, and contributes to marketing and outreach initiatives. For more information: https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:va6c2:09d14 abf-5823-48bf-84a1-4cf08164825a

» Community Service Coordinator (fulltime, hybrid)

The successful candidate will play a vital role in connecting individuals with disabilities and barriers to a wide range of community resources. Acting as a bridge between clients, service providers, and our internal team, the CSC ensures wraparound support that promotes stability, reduces barriers, and helps clients achieve meaningful employment goals. For more information: https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:VA6C2:09a2 a151-8859-44cc-9ec4-4b509443a700

» Skill Development Coordinator (full-time, hybrid)

The successful candidate will play a key role in equipping individuals with disabilities and barriers to employment with the tools they need to achieve sustainable success. By designing and facilitating innovative skill-building workshops, the Coordinator empowers clients to increase their employability, strengthen life and digital skills, and overcome barriers with confidence. Through collaboration with staff, employers, and community partners, the Skills Development Coordinator ensures training aligns with labour market needs and contributes to building an inclusive workforce. For more information: https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:va6c2:cb0775a 4-610b-42de-a3fc-1264621ab453

» Standardized Patient Program. The Northern Alberta Medical Program (NAMP) in Grande Prairie is currently recruiting individuals to participate in our Standardized Patient Program. This opportunity allows you to help medical students develop essential communication and clinical skills by role-playing as patients in simulated scenarios. Learn more about the NAMP Standardized Patient Program and sign up here.

■Breaking Through Scarcity, Fear & Patterns to Prosperity Empowering Your Money Voice for Aligned Success Facilitator: Janet Kendrick—ProsperousWomanCoach | Speaker | AuthorofHealYour Money, Heal Your Life

■ www.janetkendrick.com | ■ prosperous4women@gmail.com Overview

An interactive Lunch & Learn for sales and business professionals to identify hidden money fears and energy leaks that limit confidence, communication, and profits. Learn to realign your mindset and energy with purpose, authenticity, and prosperity.

Key Takeaways Recognize energy leaks that cause stress or burnout. Discover your Money Personality and strengths. Communicate your value with clarity and confidence. Shift from fear to empowered, aligned action.

Workshop Options Lunch & Learn (60–75 min)

$650–$950

Engaging professional development over lunch.

Half-Day Workshop(3 hrs)

$1,250–$1,750

Deeperreflection, tools, and group integration.

All sessions include materials and can be tailored to your team’s goals.

Why It Works This session bridges emotional intelligence, money mindset, and business strategy so your team performs from clarity, confidence, and purpose.

Chamber Connection Primary and Preventative Health Services mandate letter Premier Smith has tasked Minister Adriana LaGrange with improving access to primary care, expanding nurse practitioner practices, and strengthening Alberta’s health workforce—particularly in rural and remote areas. These priorities align with the Alberta Chambers policy, Access to Physicians and Licensed Health Care Professionals Supports Rural Economic Development, reinforcing our advocacy to enhance healthcare access and workforce sustainability across Alberta.

Regulatory updates to strengthen Canada’s agricultural sector The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is implementing seven regulatory changes to reduce red tape and support economic resiliency in Canada’s agricultural sector. Changes include simplified labelling, streamlined grading and import rules, and increased flexibility to foster innovation, competition, and fairness for Canadian producers. Learn more

Drought and flood protection program

Learn more

Funding for Indigenous Partnerships in Critical Minerals Projects Natural Resources Canada has launched the Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund (CMIF) Indigenous Grants stream, providing up to $3 million in total funding to support Indigenous organizations or partnerships with Indigenous communities.

The Alberta government is investing in critical infrastructure to help communities prepare for drought and flooding. This fall, $25 million in funding is available through the Drought and Flood Protection Program to support municipalities and Indigenous communities in protecting people, homes, and vital infrastructure. Eligible projects include berms, flood walls, water retention systems, and infrastructure upgrades that reduce risk and improve resiliency. Learn more

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)

CHAMBER CONNECTION NEWSLETTER

Our Statement on U.S. Tariffs on ForeignMade Films The Canadian Chamber of Commerce is deeply concerned by President Trump’s announcement that the United States will impose tariffs on foreign-made films. Such a move ignores the integrated nature of the North American film industry, where U.S. productions regularly rely on Canadian crews, facilities and talent to deliver some of Hollywood’s biggest hits. Read Full Statement

Our Statement on the Federal Government’s AI Strategy Consultation and New Advisory Council The Canadian Chamber congratulates the members of the new AI Strategy Task Force who were announced by Minister Solomon today Canada has real strengths in AI research and talent. To translate that strength into prosperity for workers and businesses across the country, we need a refreshed and modernized strategy that helps companies adopt AI responsibly, grow at home, and compete abroad. Read Full Statement

Our Statement on 100% Pharmaceutical Tariffs For this vital, life-saving industry, any rate other than zero is too high. Medicine is not just another commodity. A 100% tariff on foreign pharmaceuticals, if manufacturers fail to move their production to the U.S. within 12–18 months, will have profound and potentially dire consequences on Americans’ health. Read Full Statement

CHAMBER CONNECTION NEWSLETTER

EVEN MORE RESOURCES

Save time, money and help your business grow with a new resource hub for small business owners Mastercard’s Small Business Navigator is your new centralized digital suite of resources, designed to help you succeed at all stages of your business journey. Small Business Navigator brings together: 1.Cost-saving offers for accepting payments and simplifying operations 2.Cybersecurity resources to learn how to protect your business 3.Economic insights that can help you understand market trends and anticipate shifts It serves as your one-stop hub for a wide range of resources to meet real-world needs and further support your business growth. Explore Mastercard’s Small Business Navigator and unlock your full business potential today. Learn more

How to grow your business with Local Services Ads Trying to connect with local customers but not sure how? Google Local Services Ads can put your business directly in front of prospects near you. This guide will cover how to grow your business, build trust with local customers, and simplify your advertising with Local Services Ads for lead generation. Learn more

Chamber Connection

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!

Business Valuation : A guide for entrepreneurs

You are planning to sell your business? To prepare a business for sale, you need to know what your company is worth. This free guide from BDC will help you choose a business valuator, understand the valuation process and manage expectations around value fluctuations.

Download guide

CHAMBER CONNECTION NEWSLETTER

City of Grande Prairie Receives 2025 Minister’s Award City of Grande Prairie Receives 2025 Minister’s Award for Red Tape Reduction and Service Delivery Enhancement The City of Grande Prairie proudly accepted the 2025 Minister’s Award for Municipal Excellence at the City Council meeting held September 8, 2025 for work done to streamline the development permitting process.

Halloween Spooktacular Takes Over Downtown October 25

The City won in the Red Tape Reduction or Service Delivery Enhancement award category for streamlining the permitting process by consolidating three separate applications development permit, building permit, and civil site work - into a single, unified application and moving to a digital platform.

Families are invited to celebrate Halloween in the heart of the city as the Halloween Spooktacular returns to Grande Prairie’s downtown on Saturday, October 25. The City of Grande Prairie and the Downtown Association are once again partnering with local businesses to create an event that brings families together for spooky fun and a spirited downtown celebration.

This transformation simplifies the user experience, reduces duplication, and accelerates processing times. By enabling concurrent review of all components, the City has significantly improved efficiency, reduced red tape, and enhanced clarity for applicants - demonstrating a strong commitment to innovation and responsive service delivery. Read Full Article

A special Gentle Ghouls Sensory Hour, sponsored by Goodwill, takes place from 10 to 11 a.m. in The Bowes at Bonnetts Energy Centre. Learn More

September Economic Development Newsletter

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

PRENERGY.CA

Salford & Co.

www.reallygreatsite.com

Chamber Connection OCTOBER 2025 ISSUE NO.22

EMAIL US : MAX@GPCHAMBER.COM