Chamber CONNECTION
Your Weekly Connection to The Chamber
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FEATURED PHOTO: INTI AT THE INDIGENOUS CELEBRATION (SUBMITTED WITH PERMISSION)
-ANGIE PATTERSON
JUNE 2026 ISSUE NO.54 GRANDEPRAIRIECHAMBER.COM
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Contact max@gpchamber.com for more information
Upcoming Events!
Upcoming Events! 06.12
Ribbon Cutting: Knoblauch & Associates
06.17
Ribbon Cutting: Lat55 Safety Inc
06.23
Ribbon Cutting: Mazda of Grande Prairie
Ribbon Cutting: Swan City 06.23 Roadhouse
06.24
Ribbon Cutting: Global Cellulose Fibers GP
business.grandeprairiechamber.com/event-calendar
UPCOMING RIBBON CUTTING FRI, JUN 12 | 4:30PM
KNOBLAUCH & ASSOCIATES
9305 Resources Road Grande Prairie, AB T8V 3A6 GRANDEPRAIRIECHAMBER.COM
Ribbon Cutting - Knoblauch & Associates Celebrate a decade of dedication as Knoblauch & Associates – Co-operators marks their 10th Anniversary with a Ribbon Cutting. Over the past ten years, they’ve built a reputation for personalized service, trusted relationships, and a strong commitment to the local community. Join fellow members and community leaders in recognizing this milestone, connecting with their team, and celebrating the success of a business that continues to grow and evolve while staying rooted in service and trust.
GROW YOUR BUSINESS
LEARN MORE
RECLAIM YOUR TIME AND KNOW YOUR NUMBERS! www.bigbizgrowth.com
780-538-4699
Chamber Connection
G A L L E R Y
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CHAMBER CONNECTION NEWSLETTER
88TH ALBERTA CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AND POLICY PLENARY SESSION IN WHITECOURT Last week, the Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce attended the 88th Alberta Chambers of Commerce Annual General Meeting and Policy Plenary Session in Whitecourt, alongside representatives from 32 Chambers across the province. Our team was proud to take part in a strong few days of professional development, policy discussion, and collaboration with Chamber leaders from across Alberta. Sessions explored topics including economic leadership, trade and growth, lessons from past downturns, AI and automation in business, and building a workforce ready for the future. The Policy Plenary Session saw all 28 resolutions adopted, including a policy co-sponsored by our Chamber and the Fort McMurray Chamber: Implementing an Emergency Economic Recovery Program for Natural Disasters and Evacuations. This policy recommends the development of a standardized, rapid-response recovery mechanism to support small and medium-sized businesses impacted by disasters and evacuations. We are also excited to share that Grande Prairie’s Cindy Park of Northwestern Polytechnic was announced as Chair Elect for the Alberta Chambers of Commerce for the 2026–27 term. And more exciting news — the 89th ACC AGM and Policy Plenary Session will be hosted in Grande Prairie next May. We are looking forward to welcoming Chamber leaders from across Alberta to our region and sharing more opportunities for our members to get involved in the months ahead.
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 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 peace of mind for your business —contact Neil & Associates today!
Chamber Connection
Canada-Alberta Workforce Resilience Initiative
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New cabinet members focused on what matters Premier Danielle Smith has made changes to cabinet to continue delivering on the priorities that matter most to Albertans. . The updated cabinet includes both experienced and newly appointed ministers who will continue delivering on the priorities that matter most to Albertans, including growing the economy, strengthening front-line services, keeping communities safe and supporting Alberta families.
Shifting global trade environments are creating uncertainty and higher costs for Alberta businesses, making it harder for them to plan, invest, and keep their workforce stable during unpredictable conditions. The Government of Alberta, in partnership with the Government of Canada, is launching initiatives across multiple ministries as a response to trade and tariff impacts. Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration (JETI) is pleased to announce the Canada-Alberta Workforce Resilience Initiative. This initiative provides financial support to eligible organizations for building a resilient workforce through the following two streams: 1.Workforce Planning - supports sectors and communities to develop strategies for workforce transitions and transformations. 2.Employer-led Training – supports employers and industry associations operating in shifting global trade environments to train impacted employees. Visit alberta.ca/WorkforceResilience to learn more about the Canada-Alberta Workforce Resilience Initiative and register for an online information session on May 28, 2026.
Learn More
Investing in a resilient workforce The governments of Alberta and Canada are investing $68.5 million over three years to strengthen the workforce and connect at least 7,800 workers to in-demand jobs. In partnership with the Government of Canada, Alberta’s government is expanding skills training and employment supports to help workers amid global market shifts. Learn More
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CHAMBER CONNECTION NEWSLETTER
Small Business Loans: What to Know Before Applying Getting a business loan can feel overwhelming, but the right preparation can make the process easier. Learn about common financing options in Alberta, what lenders typically look for, and how to organize your numbers, documents, and funding requests before applying. Read more and connect with our team for free one-on-one support today. Continue Reading
Are You Choosing the Right Places to Sell Your Products? Local markets and community events offer small business owners a practical way to connect with customers, test products, and build brand awareness in real time. By participating in the right events, you can gather valuable feedback, strengthen relationships, and create opportunities for future sales both in person and online. Learn how to choose the right markets and make the most of each event. Read the blog to get started and find opportunities you can apply to. Read More
Growing Your Business: Is It Time To Hire Marketing Support? Bringing in marketing support can be a big decision for any small business owner. This blog breaks down the differences between hiring a marketing consultant or an agency, when it makes sense to seek outside help, and how to choose the option that aligns with your goals and budget. You will also learn what to look for before signing a contract and how to set your business up for a successful working relationship. Explore the guide to find the right fit for your business. 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!
Chamber Connection
CHAMBER MEMBER SHOUTOUT
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Also found on Page 04
Please Welcome Our New Chamber Members Month : June
Bahubali Indian Cuisine COI Milestone Marketing CupboardsEXpress Onyx Enviromental Services Grande Prairie Wheaton Chevrolet Cadillac Bear Creek Counselling & Psychology
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..” Change Ave Joined: April 29, 2026 We’re pleased to welcome Natalia and Change Ave to our Chamber network! We look forward to seeing this business continue to grow and serve our community..
Grande Prairie Photography Club Joined: April 20, 2026 We’re excited to welcome Angie Patterson and the Grande Prairie Photography Club to our Chamber network! We look forward to seeing this organization continue to grow and contribute to our regional business community.
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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!
Chamber Connection
Steel and aluminum tariff measures extended Canada is extending key steel and aluminum tariff measures for another year, including tariff-rate quotas and relief provisions, to provide certainty for producers and protect against global trade desruptions. Learn more
Renewed support for entrepreneurs with disabilities A $5.5 million investment through PrairiesCan will renew the Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP) across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba over the next five years. The program aims to provide business information, training and development, mentorship, and one-on-one advising to support entrepreneurs with disabilities. Learn more
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Workforce training and employment supports Alberta and Canada are investing $68.5 million through the Canada–Alberta Workforce Tariff Response to support workers and employers impacted by global trade shifts. The initiative will support more than 7,800 workers by providing access to skills training and employment services. Learn more The Workforce Tariff Response
Expanding training opportunities for skilled trades workers Alberta’s government is investing $4 million in a two-year pilot with the Christian Labour Association of Canada (CLAC) to expand on-the-job training for skilled trades workers, supporting faster certification through an adaptive, personalized learning platform. This initiative is open to individuals who are registered and meet the criteria of the Trades Qualifier Program. 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
Canada–U.S. Trade Relations in Focus Ahead of CUSMA Review With the July 1 CUSMA review milestone approaching, attention remains focused on the future of Canada–U.S. trade relations. While formal negotiations have yet to begin, both governments have indicated that discussions are ongoing. Recent comments from U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer suggest tariffs are expected to remain part of the U.S. trade framework, while Canada continues to seek meaningful tariff relief alongside the review process. At the same time, both countries have highlighted opportunities for cooperation in areas such as energy, critical minerals, manufacturing and supply chain resilience, underscoring the continued importance of North American economic integration. The broader economic impact of trade uncertainty is also becoming more apparent. New analysis from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s Business Data Lab shows that while Canada is making progress in diversifying exports beyond the U.S., those gains remain uneven across firms, sectors and regions. In a speech last week in New York City, Prime Minister Carney argued that Canada must focus on strengthening its domestic economy while diversifying partnerships abroad, while also pursuing a renewed economic partnership with the U.S. in areas of mutual interest. As governments prepare for the next phase of CUSMA discussions, businesses will be watching closely for greater clarity on investment conditions, supply chain planning and the long-term direction of the Canada–U.S. economic relationship.
Canada Has the Clean Energy the World Needs — What’s Stopping Us from Delivering? In an op-ed for the Hill Times, Bryan Detchou, Senior Director, Natural Resources, Environment and Sustainability, writes that Canada has an enormous strategic asset: Our dual capability to position ourselves as a reliable supplier of conventional energy and as a global leader in the technologies that will advance the future energy system. But will we do it before the next crisis emerges? Read Our Op-ed
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CHAMBER CONNECTION NEWSLETTER
EVEN MORE RESOURCES AI for Food and Beverage Businesses: Free Virtual Sessions Session 1: June 2, 2026 | Session 2: June 4, 2026 | 12:00 to 1:30 PM MT | Virtual via Zoom Canada's Premier Food Corridor is hosting two free virtual sessions this June focused on practical AI applications for food and beverage businesses. Session 1 (June 2) covers AI for business management and operations. Session 2 (June 4) covers AI for marketing and customer engagement, including a summer marketing sprint challenge where participants can build marketing assets using tools like ChatGPT, Canva AI, and Gemini. Prizes and business spotlights will also be featured! Register Here
Introducing the Google AI Professional Certificate AI skills are no longer "nice to have"—they are what employers want right now. That’s why we’re proud to partner with Google Canada on the launch of the new Grow With Google AI Professional Certificate. This course empowers learners to transition from being AI-aware to AI-fluent in their daily work. With 20+ hands-on activities,learners will master high-demand skills like: Automating Tasks with Gemini Building Custom Solutions in AI Studio Researching Smarter with NotebookLM Let’s work together to make AI-driven career growth accessible to all Canadians. Learn More
Young worker resources As the weather gets warmer and the school year comes to an end, thousands of young Albertans will start their careers and, for some, even their first jobs. With little experience, young workers can be especially at risk for injuries and illnesses. OHS information resources are available for young workers and for parents/guardians and employers of young workers to learn how to stay healthy and safe. To access these resources, visit the young worker category on the OHS Resource Portal. An eLearning fun quizzes resource also includes a quiz for young workers.
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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
Business Support Opportunity — Vandalism Recovery & Prevention Grant The City of Grande Prairie has approved a Vandalism Recovery and Prevention Grant Pilot Program for 2026 to help local businesses recover from vandalism and invest in preventative measures that reduce repeat incidents. The program provides up to 50% reimbursement of eligible costs (to a maximum of $5,000 per business per year) for expenses such as window repairs, security cameras, lighting, anti-graffiti coatings and other prevention measures. Applications are now open. Full details, eligibility information and the application form are available at: cityofgp.com/vandalismrecovery.
May Economic Development Newsletter
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Brenden Bozlovitch MSW, RSW Owner/Mental Health Therapist
Choosing a successor: Why making the right choice matters more than fairness
Succession planning is a crucial step in your business succession process. It is important to make an informed decision by prioritizing what's best for the future of the company rather than focusing on fairness. Find out how in our article.
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EMAIL US : MAX@GPCHAMBER.COM
JUNE 2026 ISSUE NO.54