Connecting Local Leaders with Alberta's Minister of Infrastructure

Meaningful advocacy creates opportunities for local voices to be heard directly by the decision-makers shaping our region’s future.

On Tuesday, the Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce hosted a private roundtable with The Honourable Martin Long, Alberta’s Minister of Infrastructure, alongside Tany Yao, MLA for Fort McMurray-Wood Buffalo.

The discussion brought together representatives from business, industry, education, healthcare, Indigenous organizations, the municipality, and the broader community to speak directly with Minister Long about Wood Buffalo’s infrastructure priorities and opportunities for greater collaboration.

A key focus of the conversation was how upcoming infrastructure investments can create meaningful opportunities here at home, including local procurement, stronger partnerships, and greater collaboration between government, industry, institutions, and the regional business community.

The roundtable provided an important opportunity for local leaders to share their experiences, identify challenges, and discuss practical ways to strengthen economic development and community growth across Wood Buffalo.

We thank Minister Long and MLA Yao for engaging directly with our community, and each of the local leaders who contributed their expertise and perspectives to a productive conversation.

Through our partnership with the Alberta Chambers of Commerce, we're pleased to share a weekly roundup of resources, funding opportunities, and tools to support your business.

• Share your comments on steel import quotas by Aug 19th
• State of Trade 2026: The rise of services in Canada’s trade landscape
• EMC workforce programs for manufacturers: EMC’s Learning Centre offers fully funded or subsidized upskilling and hiring supports.
• Buy Local Alberta Toolkit
• WorkFirst Alberta Employer Toolkit
• Understanding CUSMA compliance - From Trade Commissioner Service
• Bursary programs to support northern Alberta’s workforce:
• For Students ? Northern Alberta Development Bursary (NADB)
• For Employers & Organizations ? Bursary Partnership Program
• Canada-Alberta Productivity Grant - funding to help employees and unemployed Albertans access training opportunities.
• Alberta Employer Resources

Canada-Alberta Productivity Grant Webinar

Discover how your organization could access government funding to support employee training through the Canada-Alberta Productivity Grant (CAPG). Join Workforce Consultants (WFC) for a free webinar covering program eligibility, the application process, and how employers can leverage funding to invest in workforce skills and productivity.

Tuesday, August 18

1:30 PM to 3:00 PM

New Federal Infrastructure Funding Now Available

Applications are now open for the Government of Canada’s Build Communities Strong Fund, supporting eligible infrastructure projects across several priority areas, including housing, transportation, post-secondary and healthcare infrastructure, climate resilience, and community infrastructure.

The Direct Delivery stream is currently accepting applications for shovel-ready projects. Organizations with eligible projects are encouraged to review the program requirements and explore available funding opportunities.

Become Procurement Ready

Learn how to position your business for future procurement opportunities at this upcoming information session hosted by Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Economic Development & Tourism. Connect with procurement professionals, gain practical insights into supplier requirements and procurement processes, and explore opportunities with municipal, federal, airport, defence, and oil sands organizations.

Alberta Trade Mission to NABOC

Alberta businesses are invited to explore an opportunity to expand their networks and build meaningful partnerships through an upcoming trade mission led by the Alberta Chambers of Commerce.

Taking place September 15 to 17 in Osoyoos, B.C., the mission will connect participants with Indigenous leaders and businesses at the National Aboriginal Business Opportunities Conference (NABOC), while highlighting emerging opportunities within Canada’s growing Indigenous economy.

For four decades, Direct Workwear Ltd. has helped outfit the people who keep our region moving. What began with used coveralls in 1986 has grown into a full-service workwear destination proudly rooted in Fort McMurray.

In our latest Member Feature, Pat reflects on 40 years in business, the importance of keeping workers safe and comfortable, and the customers and community who have supported Direct Workwear along the way.

Discover the story behind this longstanding local business and join us in celebrating an incredible 40 years in Fort McMurray!

Outpost - Fine Wine Spirits Beer brings a fresh and approachable way to discover wine, spirits, and beer in Fort McMurray, built on the belief that great drinks are meant to be shared, explored, and enjoyed.

Owner Kaitlyn Steele-Burden, WSET Level 3, brings nearly two decades of industry experience to the shop, from her beginnings at a Nova Scotia winery to specialized wine education, international travel, and years working throughout Alberta. At Outpost, that experience comes together with a passion for helping customers discover something new in a welcoming, down-to-earth environment.

Located at 8410 Franklin Avenue, Outpost is an exciting addition to Fort McMurray’s local retail community.

We’re delighted to welcome Outpost Fine Wine Spirits Beer to the Chamber and look forward to supporting Kaitlyn and her team as they continue building their roots in Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo!

Community Aviation Event

Head out to YMM's free Community Aviation Event! Meet visiting pilots, explore a variety of aircraft, learn about careers in aviation, and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon with family-friendly activities, food, and more, all while supporting the 868 YMM Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron.

Burgers to Beat MS: Cars, Trucks & Bikes Show

A&W Fort McMurray is bringing the community together for Burgers to Beat MS: Cars, Trucks & Bikes Show on August 20!

Stop by the Eagle Ridge location from 3:00?8:00 PM to check out an incredible lineup of vehicles, enjoy family-friendly fun, and help raise funds for MS Canada. Vehicle registration is free, and everyone is welcome to come out and enjoy the show while supporting an important cause.

20 Bigs in 20 Weeks Corporate Challenge

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Wood Buffalo is calling on local businesses to help recruit volunteer mentors for youth in our community. With more than 40 young people currently waiting for a mentor, your organization can make a meaningful difference through the power of mentorship.

Learn how your business can participate in the 20 Bigs in 20 Weeks Corporate Challenge and help change a young person's life.