A blog that is not about politics, tariffs, or Trump – more from the heart…

Discover the inspiring story of Lou MacEachern, a true embodiment of Alberta’s entrepreneurial spirit. From humble beginnings to building a business empire, Lou’s journey is a testament to hard work and generosity. With a legacy that continues to inspire entrepreneurs and philanthropists, Lou’s story is a must-read. Learn about his remarkable contributions, achievements, the impact he had on his community, and find out why Lou MacEachern will be remembered for generations to come as a Calgary icon and a shining example of integrity and community spirit.

Do we seriously want Mark Carney as Prime Minister?

Mark Carney, a former advisor to the previous Prime Minister, has emerged as the successor for Leadership with the Liberal Party, despite concerns over his “elitist” views and lack of experience in managing an economy during a global financial crisis. Carney’s policies appear to be a continuation of his predecessor’s, with no original ideas for stimulating the Canadian economy. The country’s economic challenges remain unaddressed, and Carney’s ability to negotiate with international leaders, such as President Trump, is uncertain.

Member Spotlight: Shondell Sabad, Enterprise Advisory Services at Andersen in Canada

Member Spotlight - Shondell Sabad, Andersen

Shondell Sabad is a dynamic and visionary leader with a proven track record in the fields of finance, energy, trading, and business development.

Shondell is a Director at Andersen in Canada’s Enterprise Services division and as the President and CEO of Rainforest Energy, a forward-thinking clean energy company based in Calgary, Shondell is driving innovation and sustainability in the energy sector.

Alberta’s Fiscal Future with Minister Nate Horner Luncheon and Annual Budget Presentation

2025-03-12 - Nate Horner Member Only

Prior to Mr. Horner’s election, he was a rancher with a cow-calf mix farm operation and an avid volunteer in local community organizations. Mr. Horner has his agriculture business diploma from Olds College and his Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Lethbridge. He was the Canadian Intercollegiate Rodeo Association saddle bronc champion in 2002 and 2004. Hon. Nate Horner was sworn in as the Minister of Finance on June 9, 2023. He previously served as the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Economic Development and Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation.

Progress Over Chaos: Alberta’s Path Forward

Shondell Sabad

It’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of external forces—the looming U.S. tariffs, another 20% carbon tax hike on April 1st, and years of short-sighted policy decisions that have left Alberta more vulnerable than we should be. But dwelling on what we can’t change doesn’t move us forward. Instead, we should focus on what we can control—our businesses, our industries, and the policies we influence at home.

MLA Shane Getson – Presentation: Free Trade Zone and the Pathway Forward and Fireside Chat

2025-02-26 - MLA Shane Getson, Free Trade Zone and the Pathway Forward

Shane Getson was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Lac Ste. Anne-Parkland on April 16, 2019, and has served on several legislative committees, sub committees, and international organizations representing the Alberta Government.  In addition, he has led two significant Task forces: one on Economic Corridors, and the other on Career Education.  He was named parliamentary Secretary of Economic Corridors in October 2022.

Combatting crime through community supports.

BIE_March

Crime and disorder are taking a toll on many local businesses. According to a recent Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) report, the share of Alberta small businesses directly affected by crime and safety issues almost doubled between 2023 and 2024, jumping from 24 to 54 per cent.

There’s no tariff in team.

BIC-March

This time of the year I usually like to speculate on what may lie ahead for Alberta in 2025. However, Canada turned out to be ‘the neighbour who isn’t paying our share’ and everything got sidetracked by talk about the implementation of USA tariffs as high as 25 per cent on Canadian goods.

Navigating trade challenges.

BIE_February

As Alberta businesses grapple with the dual pressures of evolving global trade policies and persistent interprovincial trade barriers, a balanced approach is essential to navigating this challenging terrain. With the incoming U.S. President placing tariffs back in the spotlight, and Canada still contending with barriers within its own borders, the time is ripe to explore the opportunities that lie within
these challenges.