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ACC weekly update: October 31st, 2024

Network News

Talent Development Symposium

There is only four days left to get your tickets to the Talent Development Symposium, which offers a unique platform to bridge the gap between Alberta's business community and post-secondary institutions. By joining us, you contribute to driving economic growth, prosperity, and excellence in Alberta. Together, we can build a brighter future for our workforce and our province.

Date: November 27, 2024

Time: 9:15 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.

Address: 10111 Bellamy Hill Rd NW Edmonton

Fall Board Meeting & Deputy Ministers Dinner

Excitement is building for our Fall Board Meeting & Deputy Ministers' Dinner! This exclusive event brings together Alberta’s business leaders and government officials for a day of strategy, collaboration, and insights into Alberta’s future.

With discussions on key economic priorities and networking opportunities, it’s the perfect chance to connect, share ideas, and strengthen partnerships across Alberta. Join us as we explore ways to drive prosperity and innovation for our province.

Date: November 28, 2024

Time: 8:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Address: 10111 Bellamy Hill Rd NW Edmonton

Alberta News

New funding supports small business growth in Sturgeon County

Alberta’s government is investing over $30,000 through the Canada-Alberta Labour Market Development Agreement to support Sturgeon County’s new Business Catalyst Supports Program. Launched during Small Business Week, this program provides essential resources to help local businesses attract and retain talent, addressing labour shortages in rural communities. From March 2024 to March 2026, it includes a video series with tips for job seeker appeal and a recent networking event for local entrepreneurs.

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Expanding career education programming for high school students

Alberta’s government is investing $4.9 million in dual credit programs for the 2024-25 school year, supporting 55 new programs and enhancing 22 existing ones. This funding gives students in grades 10-12 the opportunity to earn high school and post-secondary credits, preparing them for careers in health care, skilled trades, agriculture, and more.

This investment aligns with ACC's "Dual Credit Opportunities in Alberta policy, which advocates for sustained provincial funding and expanded program options to support students transitioning from high school to post-secondary studies and apprenticeships.

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Alberta Challenges Ottawa’s Carbon Tax Exemption for Heating Oil

Alberta’s government has filed a federal court application challenging the constitutionality of Canada’s carbon tax exemption on heating oil, citing it as an unfair double standard. While the federal government recently exempted heating oils (predominantly used in Atlantic Canada and Quebec) from the carbon tax, similar exemptions have been denied for Albertans using natural gas.

Premier Danielle Smith explains, “Albertans cannot stand by for another winter while the federal government picks and chooses where the carbon tax applies. Since they won’t play fair, we’re going to take them back to court.” Alberta is calling for equal standards, holding Ottawa accountable to apply carbon pricing fairly across Canada.

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Canadian News

Simplifying rebuilding in Jasper

The federal government has made updates to land use policy for the Town of Jasper to make rebuilding easier, increase resilience to future wildfires, and increase housing options. Key changes to support housing include allowing leaseholders with lots formerly zoned for single-detached dwellings to build either one or two primary dwelling units, reduced parking requirements, simplifying subdivision, and more options for accessory dwellings.

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Resources

Canada Small Business Financing Program

Explore business financing options with the Canada Small Business Financing Program (CSBFP). With loans of up to $1.15 million, the CSBFP works with lenders to share the risk, making it easier for businesses with revenues under $10 million to access funds.

Learn more

GEM Report Launch Webinar

The Centre for Innovation Studies is launching two webinars about entrepreneurship in the Prairies. The presentation will review the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) reports. GEM is the largest study of entrepreneurship in the world.

Youth Entrepreneurship in the Prairies: November 19th - 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.

Women’s Entrepreneurship in the Prairies: November 21st - 12:00-1:00 p.m.

To register, please email Martha@thecis.ca and indicate which event you are interested in.