SHONDELL SABAD, SENIOR STRATEGIC ADVISOR AT AEG

On December 17, Alberta Enterprise Group (AEG) hosted its final event of 2025 – a special holiday reception that brought together members, guests, and government for a keynote address and fireside chat with Premier Danielle Smith, followed by our annual holiday-networking reception.

Despite last week’s raging blizzard outside, the atmosphere inside was warm and inviting. The room was full of energy, conversation, and good cheer – a testament to the strength of Alberta’s business community and the value of coming together, even when the weather (or the world) throws us a curveball.

A Constructive and Encouraging Message

Premier Smith delivered a thoughtful, candid message focused on Alberta’s economic future, competitiveness, and the importance of private enterprise as the engine of growth. What stood out most was Premier Smith’s willingness to engage directly with AEG members during the fireside chat, answering questions that reflected real, on‑the‑ground concerns from business leaders across many sectors.

The discussion touched on topics ranging from investment attraction and interprovincial trade to workforce challenges, Indigenous partnerships, infrastructure, energy policy, and healthcare capacity. The Premier’s openness and clarity reinforced an encouraging theme: progress happens when government and business stay in active, respectful dialogue.

This event was more than a year-end reception – it a reminder of what AEG is about: creating opportunities for meaningful conversations between policy makers and entrepreneurs, representing the voice of small and mid-sized businesses that quietly power Alberta’s economy, and building community even in challenging conditions. It was a fitting way to close the year – constructive, optimistic, and forward-looking.

A Holiday Message to Our Members

As we head into the Christmas season, we want to take a moment to thank AEG members and their families. Your resilience, commitment, and optimism continue to shape Alberta’s communities and economy, often without fanfare or headlines.

From all of us at AEG, we wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

View Premier Smith’s keynotes address HERE.