ACC weekly update: October 29, 2026

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ACC weekly update

October 29, 2026

Network News

Registration Closes November 5 | Fall Board Meeting & Deputy Ministers Dinner

Join business leaders, chamber executives, elected officials, and senior government decision-makers from across Alberta for timely conversations on the issues shaping Alberta's economic future. Hear from The Right Honourable Stephen J. Harper and an exceptional lineup of business, government, and industry leaders, while connecting with Alberta's Deputy Ministers.

Full Conference and Daytime Only attendees will receive a signed copy of Here for Canada, included with registration.

🎟️ Availability is limited. Register before November 5.

View attending Deputy Ministers

Referendum lessons shared at Canadian Chamber AGM & Convention

At the Canadian Chamber of Commerce AGM & Convention, ACC President & CEO Shauna Feth joined Candace Laing, President & CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, for a discussion on chamber leadership during pivotal moments. Drawing on ACC's referendum research, resources and engagement strategy, the session explored how chambers can balance diverse perspectives, remain trusted conveners and support their business communities through complex public policy discussions.

ACC referendum page

Candace Laing speaks with Shauna Feth

Registration closes November 5 | Talent Development Symposium

Registration is closing soon for the Talent Development Symposium, where business, education and government leaders will tackle Alberta's workforce challenges and explore solutions to meet future talent needs. Hear from experts on talent and productivity, discover emerging workforce trends, connect with leaders from across sectors, and explore practical approaches to strengthening Alberta's talent pipeline.

Secure your spot today!

Government News

Alberta opens $60-million competition for agriculture, water and land technologies

Alberta has launched a $60-million funding competition through Emissions Reduction Alberta to support technologies that improve agricultural productivity, increase water availability and restore disturbed land. Open to businesses, agricultural operators, municipalities and Indigenous communities, the program supports projects ready for piloting, demonstration or deployment. Funding ranges from $250,000 to $10 million, with applications closing December 16, 2026.

Learn more

Federal government launches $1.75-billion venture and growth capital plan

The federal government has announced a $1.75-billion plan to expand financing for Canadian startups and scaling businesses, including $1 billion through the Venture and Growth Capital Catalyst Initiative and $750 million for early- and growth-stage investment. Applications for the fund-of-funds stream are open until January 21, 2027, and feedback on the growth-stage investment stream is being accepted until November 23, 2026.

Learn more

Federal Express Entry changes target in-demand talent

Canada's Express Entry system is undergoing significant changes aimed at improving alignment between immigration selection and labour market needs. Beginning November 3, candidates with eligible Canadian work experience or qualifying job offers in high-wage occupations will receive additional points, while Labour Market Impact Assessments will no longer be required to receive the new job-offer points.

Learn more

Resources

Northern and Regional Economic Development (NRED) Application Deadline: November 19th
ACC Inclusive Hiring Hub: Featuring resources, hiring opportunities, employer supports, success stories and Video Series
The Canadian Red Cross: Free psychological First Aid training
Canadian Business Resilience Hub: practical tools and resources to help businesses manage risks, adapt to change, and build resilience.
Support for Canadian workers and businesses affected by U.S. tariffs - Canada.ca
Northern and Regional Economic Development (NRED) program
Understanding CUSMA compliance - From Trade Commissioner Service
EMC workforce programs for manufacturers: EMC’s Learning Centre offers fully funded or subsidized upskilling and hiring supports.
Northern Alberta Bursary Program: to support northern Alberta’s workforce:
For Students – (NADB)
For Employers & Organizations – Bursary Partnership Program
Federal programs and services for your business
Buy Local Alberta Toolkit
WorkFirst Alberta Employer Toolkit
Canada-Alberta Productivity Grant - funding to help employees and unemployed Albertans access training opportunities.

The Alberta Chambers of Commerce is a federation of 106 community-based chambers of commerce representing nearly 24,000 job creators.

For more information, please contact

Sacha Knorr

Alberta Chambers of Commerce

#714 Ledgeview, 9707 110 St NW

Edmonton, AB T5K 2L9

Phone: 780-425-4180 ext. 7

sknorr@abchamber.ca

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