Federal, Federal Election

EDMONTON, AB – Edmonton is an economic powerhouse, home to businesses of all sizes that fuel Canada’s growth. From major industries to entrepreneurs, businesses are ready to invest, hire, and expand. But right now, they’re facing real challenges. Trade barriers are driving up costs. Canada’s productivity is at an all-time low. With the federal election now underway, the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce is making it clear: candidates and parties must commit to fixing what’s broken. 

Today, the Edmonton Chamber is unveiling its Federal Action Plan, a roadmap to strengthen business and economic growth. The plan calls on Canada’s next federal government to improve our competitiveness, expand trade, and create the conditions for businesses to thrive. The plan lays out real solutions to tackle the biggest challenges facing businesses across Canada, calling for bold action on: 

• Create an Investable Economy: Reduce business burdens and invest in high-potential regions like Edmonton to fuel business investment, economic growth, and wealth creation. 

• Advance Canadian Trade Capacity: Diversify trade partnerships, eliminate interprovincial barriers, and empower Edmonton to lead Canada’s global trade expansion. 

• Improve Canadian Productivity: Streamline immigration pathways, recognize foreign credentials, and support small businesses in scaling and hiring skilled talent. 

• Build Critical Infrastructure: Invest in housing, transit, and economic infrastructure to strengthen urban centres like Edmonton and boost national competitiveness. 

“Business owners are fed up,” said Doug Griffiths, CEO of the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce. “They’re working harder than ever, yet it’s getting tougher to keep the doors open. Ottawa needs to listen and act before more businesses shut down.” 

Griffiths emphasized that businesses are ready to drive growth—but government needs to create the right conditions. “Businesses don’t need more obstacles—they need solutions. The cost of doing business keeps rising, trade barriers are holding companies back, and outdated policies are making it harder to hire the workers they need. If we want a strong economy, we need to start making better choices. That means cutting red tape, fixing our tax system, and investing in policies that help businesses compete, grow, and succeed.” 

The Chamber’s plan lays out real solutions to strengthen Canada’s economy. Business closures are rising, and Canada’s productivity is falling behind other countries. If nothing changes, businesses will struggle, investment will dry up, and our economy will suffer.  

As federal candidates launch their campaigns, the Chamber is calling on all parties to make business growth a priority in their platforms. 

Edmonton is ready to lead. It’s time for Ottawa to act. 

Read the full Federal Action Plan here.