Red Deer District Chamber Welcomes Strategic Regional Investments in Provincial Budget 2026
The Red Deer District Chamber (RDDC) identifies Budget 2026 as a pivotal bridge for Central Alberta, securing long-term infrastructure commitments. The Chamber welcomes major investments in health, transportation, and talent, the projection of a $9.4 billion deficit necessitates a disciplined focus on the “Alberta Tax Advantage” and provincial spending parameters.“The strategic focus on our hospital, airport and highway networks strengthens our regional corridor” Frank Creasey, Chamber CEO noted.
Red Deer District Chamber Applauds New Strategic Direction for AgSmart in 2027
The Red Deer District Chamber is proud to join Westerner Park and Olds College of Agriculture & Technology in announcing a bold, expanded vision for AgSmart. As a long-standing champion for agricultural commerce in Central Alberta, the Chamber fully supports the decision to relaunch AgSmart in 2027 as a premier national platform for innovation.The new direction for AgSmart represents a commitment to ensuring Central Alberta remains the heart of Canada’s agricultural future. By focusing on a stronger
Driving Growth: The Chamber Champions a New Era for Red Deer’s Economy
The launch of Red Deer D.R.I.V.E. Economic Development marks a bold evolution for our regional economy. By transitioning to a business-led, agile model, our community is now better positioned to attract high-value investment, scale local growth, and strengthen long-term prosperity. Having served on the initial steering committee, the Red Deer District Chamber has been a progressive advocate for this shift. We expect this arm’s-length governance structure, rooted in clear performance metrics and diverse
Red Deer District Chamber Announces Winners of the 2025 Business of the Year Awards – Presented by Servus Credit Union
The Red Deer District Chamber announced the recipients of the 2025 Business of the Year Awards presented by Servus Credit Union at the organization’s 42nd annual awards ceremony held Wednesday evening at the Red Deer Polytechnic Arts Centre. An independent adjudication committee comprised of local business leaders selected 21 finalists from more than 120 nominees in this annual celebration of business excellence and community leadership. The 2025 Business of the Year Award winners are: · Servus Credit
Statement on Council’s Decision to Proceed with the MCC Model
The Red Deer District Chamber remains measured in our expectations but committed to engaging constructively as Council proceeds with the Municipally Controlled Corporation (MCC) model for Red Deer’s electric utility. While we recognize the intent to modernize governance and improve operational flexibility, we continue to hold concerns about the financial implications and long-term viability of this approach. The MCC model introduces significant upfront and ongoing costs, with only a modest financial
Statement on the Adoption of an Arm’s-Length Governance Model for Economic Development in Red Deer
The Red Deer District Chamber commends City Council, City Administration, and especially the Ad Hoc Economic Development Committee for their exceptional leadership and commitment to shaping a bold new vision for economic development in Red Deer. Council’s unanimous decision to adopt an arm’s-length governance model reflects what our business community has long called for: a faster, more innovative, and entrepreneurial approach to economic development. With this model, Red Deer is now positioned to move at
Red Deer District Chamber Response to City of Red Deer’s 2026 Budget Strategy Update
The Red Deer District Chamber acknowledges The City of Red Deer’s efforts to stabilize its financial position and appreciates the transparent communication surrounding the 2026 budget strategy. We are encouraged by the City's stated intention to minimize tax increases, safeguard reserves, and maintain essential services while pursuing long-term financial health through its Financial Roadmap initiative. As the voice of Red Deer’s business community for over 130 years, the Chamber remains deeply concerned
Briefing Note: Analysis of the 2025 Alberta Budget
Briefing Note: Analysis of the 2025 Alberta BudgetDate: February 28, 2025 IntroductionAlberta Minister of Finance Nate Horner tabled the province’s 2025 budget on Thursday, February 27, 2025. This year’s budget, titled Meeting the Challenge presents a multifaceted fiscal plan amidst economic uncertainties, notably potential U.S. tariffs and fluctuating oil revenues. This briefing examines the budget's specific benefits and risks to Red Deer's business sector and municipal funding, highlighting key
