ACC weekly update: August 22nd, 2024

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Network News

Will a rail disruption impact your business?

Due to recent unsuccessful labour negotiations, a rail lockout has been issued to begin on August 22, 2024. This will restrict all cargo moving via rail within Canada, including cross-border shipments to and from the US.

We are engaging Alberta's business community to understand the impact of this potential rail disruption. Your participation will take less than a minute.

Share how this disruption could affect your business

ACC urges Members of Parliament to secure stability in Canada’s rail services

ACC has sent a letter to Members of Parliament for Alberta, highlighting the crucial need for stability in Canada’s Class I railway services. The letter emphasizes the significant role railways play in transporting goods worth $380 billion annually and stresses the importance of railway reliability for Alberta’s businesses and Canada's trade reputation. The ACC is advocating for immediate action to prevent disruptions that could negatively impact the economy and exacerbate existing supply chain challenges.

Read letter

ACC calls for reinstatement of Canada Alberta Job Grant

ACC has sent a letter to Members of Parliament for Alberta regarding the suspension of the Canada Alberta Job Grant (CAJG). The letter highlights the importance of upskilling Alberta’s workforce for economic growth and points out that the suspension impacts small businesses significantly. The CAJG has been crucial in addressing skills shortages, especially in sectors like construction, manufacturing, and technology. The ACC urges a resolution that reinstates the program to support ongoing workforce training and development.

Read the letter

Alberta News

Northern and Regional Economic Development Program

The Northern and Regional Economic Development Program in Alberta has updated its terms to accept applications for projects lasting up to three years, with funding ranging from $10,000 to $300,000. The application window now extends an additional month, closing on December 6, with applications opening on September 16. To date, the program has supported 144 projects. Indigenous-led applications are eligible for up to 75% funding, while others may receive up to 50%.

Learn more

Engaging youth in educational policy

This school year, 40 junior and senior high students from across Alberta will serve on the Minister’s Youth Council. They will advise the Minister of Education, offering their perspectives on various educational topics to enhance policy making and school environments. These students represent both urban and rural areas and will participate in leadership activities throughout their 10-month term, contributing valuable insights into the educational system.

Learn more

ACC-APSN Talent Development Task Force

Canadian News

Industrial Housing Strategy for Homebuilding

The Canadian government has initiated consultations to address the nation's housing crisis by exploring ways to accelerate innovation and productivity in homebuilding. The online consultations will gather insights through thematic roundtables and public submissions until September 13, 2024. The focus will be on enhancing productivity, fostering innovation, understanding capital access, and strengthening supply chains in the housing sector. An expert panel including industry leaders will guide the consultations

Learn more

Complete the survey (deadline - September 13th):

Resources

Wildfire Supports

⁠Chamber Relief Trust Fund: Strengthen business resiliency for Chambers across our province facing significant disruptions. Learn More
⁠The Red Cross: Provide immediate relief to those affected in Jasper. Federal and Provincial governments are matching donations, so every $1 donated becomes $3. Learn More
The Government of Alberta: Email proposals directly to the government for a coordinated response. (EmergencySupportOffers@gov.ab.ca)

Business Resiliency Resources