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U.S. tariffs raised economic concerns for Calgary and Airdrie in March
In March, new U.S. tariffs and Canada’s retaliatory response raised concerns about economic fallout in Calgary — and what that could mean for nearby communities like Airdrie, where many residents commute into the city for work. The United States imposed a 25 per cent tariff on Canadian non-energy exports and a 10 per cent tariff on energy exports. Ottawa announced 25 per cent counter-tariffs on $30 billion in U.S. goods effective March 4, 2025, and said additional measures would follow if the dispute
ARCC aims to ensure candidates are prepared to address small businesses' needs
The Airdrie Regional Chamber of Commerce (ARCC) is once again hosting candidate forums ahead of the municipal elections in Airdrie and Rocky View County scheduled for October 20, 2025. The online Airdrie Municipal Candidates Forum will be held on Sept. 29 at 6:30 p.m., which could possibly run as late as 9:30 p.m. depending on how many candidates should announce. The online Rocky View Council Candidates Forum will be held on Oct. 1 starting a 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. "Rocky View County is actually a greater
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RVC council approves chamber funding, supports Highway 564 speed reduction
Rocky View County (RVC) Council held a council meeting on June 17 and made a number of decisions. RVC shared that the council voted to approve the Airdrie Regional Chamber of Commerce and Bearspaw Chamber of Commerce as eligible for 2025 funding following Economic Development Initiatives Grant Program Policy C-350. "Council then approved an ongoing budget adjustment of $25,000 to support the program, and allocated $25,000 of funding each to the Airdrie Regional Chamber of Commerce, Bearspaw Chamber of
Airdrie mayor talks growth at annual State of the City
Airdrie Mayor Peter Brown was the keynote speaker at the Airdrie Regional Chamber of Commerce's Annual State of the City Address yesterday. Mayor Brown spoke to the regional business community during the Chamber's Breakfast at 525 Restaurant and Patio, highlighting the city's growth and path forward. Upcoming Municipal Election Brown started and concluded his speech by sharing what he and the council do, and encouraged those interested in running in the upcoming election to meet with one of the
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Airdrie mayor talks growth at annual State of the City 2025
Airdrie Mayor Peter Brown was the keynote speaker at the Airdrie Regional Chamber of Commerce's Annual State of the City Address yesterday. Mayor Brown spoke to the regional business community during the Chamber's Breakfast at 525 Restaurant and Patio, highlighting the city's growth and path forward. Upcoming Municipal Election Brown started and concluded his speech by sharing what he and the council do, and encouraged those interested in running in the upcoming election to meet with one of the
Canadian Startup Launches Chamber Perks App™ to Boost ‘Buy Canadian’ Movement, Connect Consumers with Local Businesses
In a move to strengthen Canada’s local economies and make it easier for consumers to discover and support Canadian businesses, a Canadian tech startup has launched the Chamber Perks App™. This bilingual platform is designed to:-Help Canadians easily discover and connect with local businesses-Incentivize consumers with perks and discounts to shop locally-Facilitate connections among Canadian companies for business opportunities.Karen Hastie, founder of the Chamber Perks App™, is a serial entrepreneur with
Balancing growth: Airdrie's residential population is growing, the city plans to grow the business sector along with it
With a growing city comes growing expenses, in order to make sure that the influx of new residents aren’t overly burdened, the city needs a growing non-residential tax base. In 2024 Airdrie’s tax assessments saw an 87-13 split, with 87 per cent being for residential assessment and 13 per cent being for non-residential assessments.City Manager Horacio Galanti said that every community has a different goal they are trying to achieve based on several factors. “There is no magic number,” he said. “There is
What did Airdrie's Mayor highlight in his State of the City Address?
The Airdrie Regional Chamber of Commerce hosted Airdrie Mayor Peter Brown as its keynote speaker to deliver his Annual State of the City Address on Tuesday morning. Mayor Brown spoke to the regional business community during the Chamber's Breakfast at the Town and Country Centre, highlighting the city's growth and path forward. Population growth, business growth, and developments While the 2024 census's results will be made available next month, Mayor Brown said he is estimating that Airdrie's
Airdrie Chamber of Commerce Presents Plans to Help Balzac Businesses Grow
According to the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce's boundaries, drawn 50 years ago, Balzac is within their scope and they hope to start working with more businesses in the area. RVC council hears about Airdrie Chamber of Commerce plan to help Balzac businesses grow. A plan to help grow the Balzac business region was presented to Rocky View County (RVC) Council’s Public Presentation Committee on Oct. 18 by representatives of the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce. The Airdrie Chamber claims Balzac and even portions
2023 Airdrie Business Awards Winners Announced
On October 19 close to 200 community members came together to celebrate the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce 25th Annual Airdrie Business Awards Gala presented by EllisDon. 45 finalists were recognized as Airdrie’s best businesses, and it truly was an evening of celebration and support for our business community. It is with terrible sadness we share the sudden passing of our valued chamber member and recent Airdrie Emerging Business Award winner, Jeremy Colwell, owner of Pure Light Style. Jeremy passed away
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Airdrie Chamber of Commerce Celebrating Milestone Year
This year is a special one for the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce as they are celebrating 50 years. The purpose of the Airdrie Chamber is to represent, promote and enhance the interests of Airdrie's regional business community. Marilyne Aalhus, Executive Director of the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce believes 50 years is a testament to the longevity of the chamber. "I just love thinking about what chambers do in every community, throughout this province and throughout the world. We're really excited that our
Happy Anniversary Airdrie Chamber of Commerce
airdrielife is proud of its long-standing relationship with the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce. We have the same goal, after all, which is to support and promote Airdrie businesses. With the Chamber’s 50th anniversary coinciding with airdrielife’s 20th year of publishing, it was a no-brainer that the two organizations collaborate on a series of articles highlighting some of the Chamber’s contributions to the local business community over the years. In this, the first of three articles planned for each of
Airdrie Chamber steps into national circuit
Some of Airdrie's Business Awards winners take a celebratory photo on the stage at Bert Church Theatre during the 2022 ceremony on October 20. PHOTO BY COURTESY OF THE AIRDRIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCEArticle content The Airdrie Chamber of Commerce took its advocacy efforts to the national scale after participating in the 2022 Canadian Chambers of Commerce (CCC) annual general meeting and seeing a co-sponsored resolution be adopted. The Airdrie Chamber of Commerce co-sponsored a resolution put forward by the
Majority of Alberta businesses facing staffing shortages
According to a recent survey conducted by the Alberta Chambers of Commerce (ACC) market research program, 62 per cent of businesses that participated in the survey, said they are facing a significant or moderate staffing shortage. "Furthermore, of those facing shortages, seven in ten (71 per cent) say those shortages are having a significant or moderate impact on production and sales opportunities. The scale of impacts from shortages has also increased substantially from July 2021," stated a press
Airdrie and Crossfield Chambers partner for second Rural Women in Business Conference
Crossfield and Airdrie Chamber of Commerce’s annual Rural Women in Business Conference is making a return on June 22 to offer a day of networking and learning among female business leaders around the region. The event will be in-person, being held at the Crossfield and District Community Hall, featuring keynote speaker Leslie Horton of Global News Calgary, business exhibits, food and networking opportunities. Marilyn Aalhus, executive director of the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce, said the full-day
Some of the hardest hit businesses could be eligible for support subsidies
A variety of businesses have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and, without government subsidies and grants, some businesses could have shut down permanently. The Government of Canada says businesses in the tourism and hospitality sector have been deeply impacted by the pandemic and could now be eligible for a wage and rent subsidy of up to 75 per cent. Some of the hardest-hit businesses affected by the pandemic might be eligible for the Hardest Hit Business Recovery Program. In order to apply
Chamber Market expands as growing number of Alberta businesses join e-commerce marketplace
NEWS RELEASE February 28, 2022 Chamber Market expands as growing number of Alberta businesses join e-commerce marketplace Innovative platform a blueprint for shop local movement in Western Canada A growing number of Alberta businesses are gaining traction in the competitive sphere of e-commerce thanks to Chamber Market, a made-in-Alberta online marketplace. Since December, Chamber Market has expanded to feature:More than 200 Alberta businesses selling their products, with more than 600 currently
An update on Airdrie's very own shop local website
Written by Marissa Ochsner Thursday, Feb 10 2022, 2:47 PM With its soft launch in the summer of 2021, airdrie.chambermarket.ca continues to grow in popularity. When the COVID-19 Pandemic first hit and multiple rounds of public health guidelines came as a result, there was a big emphasis in Airdrie on supporting local businesses. Since March of 2020, many local businesses had to close in compliance with various rounds of public health guidelines while big-box franchises found ways to consistently remain
Show your local love today
Written by Tia Leonard Wednesday, Feb 09 2022, 2:01 PMDuring the month of love and just in time for Valentine's Day, Airdronians can support their city in style. The Airdrie Chamber of Commerce launched the ‘Show Your Local Love’ Campaign in an effort to encourage the patronage of local community businesses. The Chamber first came up with the ‘Show Their Local Love’ campaign a few years back and they hope that bringing it back will give local businesses the support that they need. Executive Director,
New award to be presented at upcoming Airdrie Chamber Luncheon
The Airdrie Chamber will be adding a COVID Warrior Winner to their March Luncheon plans. Marilyne Aalhus, Executive Director for the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce, says they are implementing the COIVD Warrior Award to recognize those in the community who have made a positive impact throughout the past couple of years. “We are trying to do our best to reward people for being kind and helping make a difference throughout the pandemic.” Nominations are open for the COVID Warrior Award under a few general
One of Airdrie’s largest events is back in action
Written by Connor May Thursday, Jan 13 2022, 4:16 PM The Airdrie Home and Lifestyle Show will be back in Airdrie this April. Ashley Sinclair, the Events Coordinator for the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce, says the show will be taking place April 23 from 9 am to 5 pm and the 24 from 10 am to 4 pm at Genesis Place. The price to get into the event will be $5. “The Airdrie Chamber of Commerce hosts more than 200 exhibitors during the show from both Airdrie and the surrounding area. This is an excellent place
Shopping local benefits everyone, now it's easier!
Shopping local supports your friends & neighbours, boosts the local economy, and benefits everyone. (Credit: Courtesy Alberta Chamber of Commerce | Photography by Adrien Veczan Photo) We've been through a lot the last couple of years, and it's been tough on everyone. We all miss the way things were before the pandemic, but some of us have struggled more than others. Many people out there are just trying to make ends meet. So, what can we do to help? We can support local businesses by shopping local this
Key take-aways from Candidate Forum: Airdrie's present problems and future outlook
Written by Anna Ferensowicz Wednesday, Oct 06 2021, 7:36 AMOn Tuesday, October 5th, the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce held a virtual Municipal Election Candidate Forum. The Mayoral and City Council candidates presented their visions for Airdrie's present and future. Each candidate had a chance to introduce themselves, as well as field questions that were based on the Vote Prosperity business platform developed by the Alberta Chamber of Commerce. Candidates also answered questions from the public that had
Airdrie Chamber of Commerce launches online form for businesses struggling with Restrictions Exemption Program
Written by Anna Ferensowicz Tuesday, Oct 05 2021, 1:26 PMThe Airdrie Business Chamber of Commerce is coming to the aid of frustrated businesses that aren't getting the answers they need from the provincial government. Since the Restriction Exemption Program has come into effect last month, there have been businesses that are not able to find clear and specific answers as to whether or not they qualify for the program. "Different kinds of youth programs and different types of in-home structures, don't know
The city council hopefuls are ready to “take the stage” at the October 5th forum
Written by Connor May Friday, Oct 01 2021, 1:18 PM With the Municipal Election coming up on October 18th, the Municipal Election Candidate Forum hosted by the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce, which will take place over Zoom, might be able to answer some burning questions Airdronians may have. Marilyn Aalhus, Executive Director for the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce, says she has a good idea as to what questions the Chamber will be asking the candidates. “The questions that the Chamber asks are always geared
Chamber looking for businesses to join online platform
It won't be long now until a new online portal for local businesses will be up and running. The Airdrie Chamber of Commerce said it is getting ready for the fall launch of ChamberMarket.ca, an online shopping platform highlighting local businesses. "This platform is available for all businesses, members and non-members, with or without existing e-commerce capability," said Executive Director of the Chamber Marilyne Aalhus. "Think of it like the mall of Airdrie, online!" The website is designed to
Airdrie Chamber receives much-needed money for small business
Nearly $85,000 has been given to help local businesses still struggling from the effects of the pandemic. The Airdrie Chamber of Commerce recently announced it was approved for funding from the federal government's shop local initiative. "It's unfortunate that it had to happen because of COVID," said Executive Director Marilyne Aalhus. "Now, it's an opportunity for us to do more to support local businesses in our community." The money will help with the Chamber's plan to build an online platform for
Nominations open for 2021 Airdrie Business Awards
Nominations are now open for the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce’s 23rd annual Airdrie Business Awards, offering residents the chance to recognize local business excellence. “Obviously, we all know businesses have been through an awful lot in the last year and a half, so more than ever, we really do need to champion and celebrate the accomplishments our businesses have had,” said Marilyne Aalhus, the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce’s executive director. According to Aalhus, nominations will remain open until
Airdrie Chamber anticipates Mayor's State of the City Address
With COVID-19 cases falling and restrictions slowly lifting for both businesses and individuals, Airdrie business owners are anticipating trying to slowly get back on their feet. Many of those owners will be also anticipating what Mayor Peter Brown will have to say about that and the state of the Airdrie economy at his annual State of the City address hosted by the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday (June 8). The event goes virtually on Zoom from 11:30 am - 12:30 pm. Chamber Executive Director
Airdrie Chamber to focus even more on shopping local
This week the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce gathered, virtually, for its Annual General Meeting and promised to focus efforts on promoting the Shop Local movement more than they already are. As they do that over the next year, the Chamber Board will be very familiar with each other. The entire board that served Airdrie business in the past 12 months has offered to return for, what they hope will be, a much brighter year ahead as COVID-19 restrictions are set to ease. "We've been through a hard time
Airdrie Chamber of Commerce to provide COVID-19 rapid tests to local businesses
The Airdrie Chamber of Commerce has announced it will be providing complimentary COVID-19 rapid testing kits to local businesses that apply. “We wanted to do more to assist our business community with keeping the work environment safe for their employees – and of course, clients,” said Marilyne Aalhus, executive director with the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce. Aalhus said the initiative came about after a conversation took place between representatives from the provincial government and the Alberta
Airdrie Chamber of Commerce offering COVID-19 rapid testing kits
The Airdrie Chamber of Commerce (ACC) is offering COVID-19 rapid testing kits to local businesses. “In conjunction with vaccinations, businesses can stop the spread of COVID-19 by utilizing rapid testing for employees,” says Marilyne Aalhus, executive director of ACC. “In partnership with the Alberta Chambers and the provincial government, the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce is offering complimentary COVID-19 rapid tests to eligible businesses. By testing employees, businesses can stop outbreaks before they
Airdrie chamber contest promotes local businesses
The Airdrie Chamber of Commerce is running a campaign throughout the month of May to encourage Airdronians to support local businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Staring May 3, the chamber is asking residents, while still following all public health orders, to get out and support local shops, services and products. Participants are asked to post a picture of their shopping experience on Facebook or Instagram for a chance to win $100 worth of weekly prizes. Executive director of the Airdrie Chamber of
Airdrie Smitty’s to shut down amid continuing economic woes
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has been felt across the business community in Airdrie, and the re-establishment of government restrictions on April 7 has led to another restaurant casualty. Earlier this month, the Airdrie Smitty’s in East Lake announced the diner will be closing its doors for good on April 30. In a Facebook post, the restaurant owners indicated the decision came as a result of tightening restrictions on in-person dining. “We want to send a huge thank you to our staff and
Chamber asks for your feedback on advocating for re-opening of businesses
The executive director of the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce is sending a call out to local residents for their feedback on how the organization can best advocate for businesses regarding the easing of COVID-19 restrictions. “Together, we are stronger,” says Marilyne Aalhus. “We encourage our entire business community to provide feedback so that we can continue to communicate to the Province asking for support and a clear message.” Residents can have their opinions taken into consideration by filling out a
Airdrie Chamber looks to business community for suggestions on getting clear messaging from the government
The Airdrie Chamber of Commerce has done everything they can think of to advocate for a clear and safe reopening plan for businesses in the city and in the province from COVID-19 restrictions. Now, they're looking to the Airdrie business community to suggest other ways to advocate to the government for a clear way forward for businesses to safely reopen. On Monday (March 22) Alberta Health Minister Tyler Shandro said the government was pushing pause on its plans to enter Phase Three of the Path
Women in Leadership: Marilyne Aalhus
In recognition of International Women's Day on March 8, the Airdrie City View is profiling four women who hold leadership positions, in a four-article series that focuses on how these women have helped their respective organizations navigate the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our fourth and final profile is on Marilyne Aalhus, the executive director of the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce.In recognition of International Women's Day on March 8, the Airdrie City View is profiling four women who hold
Airdrie Chamber doesn't see many results from meeting with the Premier
On February 9th, representatives from Alberta Chambers of Commerce sat down on a Zoom call with Premier Jason Kenney to talk about COVID-19 and their desire to let more businesses that have been closed off-and-on during provincial restrictions open safely in the province. The meeting included the President of the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce Nikki Nordick, Executive Director Marilyne Aalhus along with several other Airdrie reps. Aalhus says topics of conversation ranged from the pandemic to the
Alberta Chamber calls on government to safely reopen shuttered businesses
The Alberta Chamber of Commerce (ACC), including the Airdrie Chamber, has had enough of the confusion over certain businesses being allowed to open at limited capacity while others have to remain closed during the Alberta government's current restrictions. For that reason, they're calling on the government to find ways to safely reopen closed businesses wherever possible. That call came after Premier Kenney announced last week that current COVID-19 restrictions would remain in place for at least
