Whitecourt, AB (May 28, 2026) - Delegates from local chambers across Alberta adopted 28 policy resolutions to advocate with the provincial and federal governments during the Alberta Chambers of Commerce (ACC) 88th Annual General Meeting and Policy Plenary in Whitecourt on May 28, 2026.

The Whitecourt & District Chamber of Commerce welcomed chamber leaders, business advocates, and partners from across the province for ACC’s annual gathering focused on strengthening Alberta’s business environment, advancing policy priorities, and fostering collaboration across the chamber network.

The annual Policy Plenary session remains a cornerstone of the AGM, bringing together chamber delegates from across the province to debate and adopt policy recommendations that reflect the priorities of Alberta businesses. This year’s discussions focused on workforce development, economic competitiveness, market access, regulatory efficiency, rural economic sustainability, and innovation.

The AGM also welcomed Candace Laing, President and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, who spoke to delegates about the importance of a strong and unified business voice in shaping Canada’s economic future.

ACC President and CEO Shauna Feth said the priorities advanced by community chambers reflect the opportunities and challenges Alberta businesses are navigating across the province.

“The chamber network plays an important role in bringing forward practical, consensus-driven solutions that support businesses across Alberta,” said Feth. “With 31 chambers participating in this year’s Policy Plenary, the recommendations adopted demonstrate the collective strength of Alberta’s business community and a shared commitment to supporting long-term economic growth, investment, and competitiveness.”

Robin Bobocel, who was sworn in as ACC Chair for 2026-2027, emphasized the need for practical, solutions-focused advocacy on behalf of Alberta businesses.

“The policies adopted at this AGM reflect real challenges that Alberta businesses are navigating today and they point to something larger,” said Bobocel. “Uncertainty has become one of the most significant economic forces affecting this province right now. It functions like a tax, slowing investment, complicating hiring decisions, and eroding the confidence that drives growth. Alberta cannot afford that tax.”

The Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce brought forward 10 of the 28 policy resolutions, with all being adopted by the delegates during the policy plenary session. Policies brought forward by the local Chamber included:

1. Addressing the Truck Driver Shortage Through a Redesign of Class 1 Driver Training
2. Benefits of Twinning Highway 3
3. Highlighting the Importance of Ag Education
4. Improving Risk Management for Agriculture Producers
5. Modernization of Alberta Registry Agents
6. Promoting Canada’s Agriculture Industry
7. Beverage Remittance Model Reform
8. Support for Canadian Beverage Manufacturing
9. Embedding Economic Stewardship in Alberta’s Code of Conduct and Ethics for Public Service
10. Equitable Billing and Referral Privileges for Allied Health Professionals

Aaron Fleming, President of the Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the importance of collaboration and ensuring regional priorities are reflected at the provincial level.

“Our Chamber is proud to contribute meaningful, solutions-focused policy to the provincial dialogue,” said Fleming. “Seeing all 10 of our resolutions adopted reflects the relevance of the issues facing Southeast Alberta businesses and the strength of our collective advocacy. When chambers across Alberta align behind shared priorities, it creates real momentum for solutions that support economic growth and resilience in our communities.”

The AGM also provided an opportunity to recognize leadership within the chamber network. Lisa Dressler, Executive Director of the Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce, was named Alberta Chamber Executive of the Year, alongside Dianna De Sousa, Executive Director of the Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce.

This distinguished award recognizes exceptional Chamber professionals who demonstrate excellence in leadership, Chamber management, membership growth and engagement, innovative programming, community impact, and contributions to Alberta’s Chamber network. Dressler’s work in policy development, member engagement, and regional advocacy continues to strengthen the voice of Southeast Alberta businesses both provincially and nationally.

“This award is a reflection of what is possible when people come together with intention, courage, and a shared belief in something bigger than themselves,” reflected Lisa Dressler, Executive Director, during the award ceremony. She further added, "This recognition does not belong to me alone. It belongs to the people who show up every day with ideas, courage, and a willingness to build something better.”

The 89th Annual Conference will be hosted by the Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce in May 2027.

Read the Alberta Chambers of Commerce Media Release

Please direct all media inquiries to:
Aaron Fleming
Chamber of Commerce President, 2026-2027
Phone: (403) 527-5214 ext. 225

The Chamber of Commerce is a member-driven, volunteer-led organization, proudly representing the interests of businesses in our region, and working diligently to stimulate a strengthened and vibrant economy through our connections, support and influence. For over 125 years, the Chamber has stood for promoting business, monitoring government and championing managed growth in the local economy. The Chamber represents close to 900 businesses in our region and is aligned with the Alberta Chambers of Commerce (ACC), which represents over 24,000 businesses, the Canadian Chambers of Commerce (CCC), which represents over 200,000 businesses and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), representing over 45 million companies in more than 170 countries. With the largest and most influential business organizations locally, provincially, federally and internationally, the Chamber network is the most unified, valued and influential business network in Canada and works together to shape policy and programs that will make a difference to businesses in our region.