Labour Market News

Northern Health is accepting grant applications for community-lead health and wellness initiatives from April 4 to May 16. Grants will be up to $10,000 for projects seeking to address various community issues, including mental health, community safety, and climate health.

Westcoast Energy Inc., an Enbridge subsidiary, is preparing to start construction on the $1.2B Aspen Point pipeline expansion project in the Peace region. West Coast Energy Inc. is hiring up to 475 workers for work between July 2025 to April 2026, with priority for Indigenous and local workers. Recruitment will continue throughout the project.

Northern Health reported 11 emergency room closures in northeast B.C. from January through March. Closures were due to staffing challenges at Chetwynd General Hospital, Dawson Creek and District Hospital, and Fort Nelson General Hospital.

Chantiers Chibougamau, which works in the forestry sector, resumed operations at its Matagami sawmill. It had been shut down since the fall of 2024.

The Centre de services scolaire de Sorel-Tracy is organizing a recruitment day, which will take place on April 22, to fill administrative, teaching, technician and professional positions

Cogir, a real estate firm, is investing over $1B in the Affiniti ecodistrict project in Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville. The project, which has just been inaugurated, should take 15 years and will include 3,000 housing units, including some social housing.

Chantiers Chibougamau, a logging company, permanently closed its sawmills in Sullivan and Val-D'Or in that municipality

The Ville de Châteauguay is investing $5.2M in upgrading six parks in the area. The City will use the investment to add playgrounds, splash pads and sports facilities, among other things.

The Centre de services scolaire des Patriotes will invest around $44M in rebuilding the Albert-Schweitzer school in Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville. The project should begin in the fall of 2026 and be finished by September 2028.

The Ville de Rouyn-Noranda received $10M from the Government of Quebec to decontaminate industrial land and an additional $4.3M shared with Collectif Territoire, a non-profit organization, to revitalize Osisko lake.

Machinex, a manufacturer of recycling equipment, inaugurated its processing plant for returnable containers in Sorel-Tracy. The facilities, which employ around 40 workers, required an investment of approximately $50M.

La HUTTE, an organization that supports people experiencing homelessness, announced that a building with 60 transitional housing units will be built in Saint-Jérôme. The project is scheduled to begin this summer and be finished by next summer.

PureSphera, a company that recycles refrigeration and air conditioning units, will invest $5M in upgrading and acquiring new equipment to make its Bécancour plant more efficient

Contrôles Laurentide, an automation services company in Montréal, is investing $7M in building a maintenance and training centre in Bécancour. The company will create about 10 jobs as a result. The building is due to be delivered by the end of October.

The Centre de la petite enfance La Chenille inaugurated its third centre, which was built at a cost of $3.8M. The facility has 34 new daycare spots in Saint-Donat.

Maxi, a supermarket chain, will soon begin construction work on a new store in Mont-Laurier. The project is scheduled to be finished by the spring of 2026.

The rotisserie chain St-Hubert will invest approximately $3M in setting up a restaurant in Carrefour Laval, which will open at the end of the year

Aliments Rustica, a pizza maker, will invest $65M in expanding and automating its plant in Montréal. The company hopes to hire around 100 people.

Frank And Oak, a unisex clothing store chain, will close nine stores in Canada, including seven in the province. The Montréal, Laval, Brossard and Québec locations will be closing as part of bankruptcy proceedings.

Accès Logement Trois-Rivières, a non-profit organization, launched the Résidence Kermaria project, which will convert a former convent into 69 affordable housing units for seniors in Trois-Rivières. Various partners are funding the project of nearly $32.9M.

The Centre Louise-Amélie, a residence with 13 units for female victims of domestic violence, opened in Sainte-Anne-des-Monts following an $11.8M investment

Damabois, a wood processing company, temporarily ceased operations at its sawmill in Cap-Chat due to caribou protection measures. As a result, 18 employees have lost their jobs.

The Société québécoise du cannabis (SQDC) announced that it will open a location in Amqui on March 31. The new store will help the corporation create seven jobs.

Grimard, a manufacturer of electrical equipment, is building a workshop in Saguenay. The $14M project should be finished by September and create 80 positions over three years, which would double the size of its current team.

Pépinière Forestière Tshitassinu is receiving $10M in federal funding to build its facilities in Roberval. The project, which will span six to eight months, will begin soon. The $56M project will produce more than 10 million trees for reforestation.

Structures Martel, a manufacturer of wood structures, will spend $1.8M on upgrading its production facilities in Alma. The company employs around 40 workers.

The Municipalité de Lamarche is investing $4.3M in building a new fire station and rehabilitating its town hall. Construction will begin this spring thanks to $3.2M in funding from the Government of Quebec.

The Ville de Magog is investing $4M in facility upgrades at Plage des Cantons. The project should be finished by the fall.

Vidéo Flash, a company that rents movies and video games, is closing its last store in Sherbrooke's Rock Forest borough

Montréal's Place Versailles mall will be partially redeveloped thanks to an investment of more than $2B. Beginning in 2026, the first phase will include commercial spaces, in addition to 2,528 various housing units.

McKesson Canada, a pharmaceutical distributor, is investing over $150M in relocating to a distribution centre, which is twice as big. The new centre is also in Montréal's east end, and the company will relocate there in the spring of 2026.

Manmade, a manufacturer of men's underwear, plans to hire around 30 people to join their team with just as many employees. The Montréal employer will relocate to a building that is four times larger.

IKEA, a retailer of furniture and home accessories, is opening a plan and order centre in Sherbrooke

Sodexo, a food service provider, will lay off 70 people in Sherbrooke at the end of the month because the company lost a contract

The Ville de Sherbrooke is investing nearly $75M in repairing roads, sidewalks and bike paths this year

The Centre de la petite enfance Les Tisserands will create around 20 jobs in Cowansville once a second daycare facility with 79 spots is built. The centre should open by the end of the year. The Government of Quebec is providing $3.7M in funding for the project.

Dollarama, a retailer of various low-priced products, will open up to 80 locations in Canada by February 2026 to expand its network, which has 1,616 stores

The Ville de Montréal is investing over $5M in revamping a three-kilometre stretch of Saint-Urbain street, which will start in June. Reconstruction will take one year.

NeoLithica, a Calgary-based lithium development company, is planning an extraction project in Alberta’s Peace Region that could mean new jobs in nearby communities within two years. The company aims to spend the next 12-18 months developing its Direct Lithium Extraction technology in hopes of drilling two new wells: one near Eaglesham and one near Grande Prairie.

The City of Calgary is partnering with cSpace, a local arts incubator, to convert a former downtown fire hall into an arts and culture hub. The project is still in its early planning stages, but the City plans to release an estimated budget later this year.

Calgary Economic Development has released its innovation strategy, which aims to bring up to 187,000 jobs and $28B in economic activity to the city by 2034. One part of the plan is a network of hubs for startups, researchers, and industry leaders to develop new technologies.

A Calgary restaurant that closed in 2023 after two decades in operation is now reopening. Shibuya Izakaya, a Japanese eatery, is relaunching in a new location.

A new eatery, Aloha Modern Kitchen, has opened in Calgary near Chinook Centre. The restaurant seats 80 people and serves Hawaiian-inspired cuisine.

Silent-Aire, a company that designs and builds data centre components, is opening a new facility in the Hamlet of Nisku. The manufacturing facility is Silent-Aire’s fifth and largest in Canada and will employ 200 people.

Alberta’s growing construction industry will see a high demand for workers until 2034, according to BuildForce Canada. The industry needs to recruit 59,000 workers over that period, as 21% of the labour force is expected to retire before 2034. BuildForce recommends focusing local recruitment efforts on under-represented groups, as well as recruiting immigrants to Canada with training or experience in the skilled trades.

U.S.-based fast food chain Chick-fil-A is opening a new Edmonton location this month. The company opened its first restaurant in Alberta last year and now has one location in Calgary and four in Edmonton, including the one about to open. The company says it is planning for 20 locations in the province by 2030.

The Alberta Government’s 2025 Budget includes $5M in funding for expanded cardiac care services in the southern part of the province. This includes a cardiac catheterization lab in Lethbridge and expansions to intensive care units in Lethbridge and Medicine Hat.

Nolinor Aviation has acquired the North Cariboo Air Complex in Edmonton, and plans to use it as a regional hub for its expanding operations in Western Canada. The airline says it plans to add at least one more major Fly-In Fly-out agreement in the upcoming months. It has also added another aircraft and a third heavy maintenance line, which is creating new jobs in the company.

Building materials manufacturer CGC Inc. is hiring 100 full-time staff for its new plant near Carseland, scheduled to open in 2026. Roles include mechanics, electricians, quality technicians, and production and supply chain operators, among others. The company is spending $325M to expand its domestic production, including manufacturing in Western Canada.

The United Nurses of Alberta, which represents 30,000 nurses in the province, has reached a four-year deal with the provincial government. The contract includes wage increases of about 20% by 2028, as well as improved job security protections and a commitment to hire 1,000 new graduates each year over the lifetime of the agreement.

Edmonton’s real estate market posted gains in sales, prices, and supply in March. Sales of residential homes were up 36.9% over the previous month and 1.3% year-over-year, while the number of new home listings increased 44.5% and 7.5% respectively. The average price for a detached home in Edmonton increased 1.2% on a monthly basis and 11.2% on an annual basis.

The Government of Alberta is providing a total $1M in grant funding to train firefighters in 65 communities across the province. These include municipalities, First Nations, and Métis Settlements.

A new walk-in clinic has opened in Medicine Hat, part of Nat’s Remedy’s Rx Pharmacy. The clinic is staffed by a nurse practitioner, a professional designation that offers a similar scope of services to a family physician.

The Government of Alberta’s 2025 Budget allocates $6.9M over three years to expand the Lakeshore Regional Police Service detachment building, which serves five First Nations in the Lesser Slave Lake area.

Alberta’s tourism industry has had the strongest post-pandemic rebound in Canada, according to Travel Alberta. Visitor spending was $11.5B from January to September last year, a 10% increase from the same period in 2023. The Province is on track to reach a goal of $13.4B in 2024 and has set a target of $25B by 2035.

Olds College of Agriculture and Technology has opened its renovated Metals Building. The $4.4M renovation includes expanded welding areas and can accommodate up to 21 dual credit students per class. The school’s dual credit program allows Grade 10-12 students from Central Alberta Collegiate Institute to complete high school and post-secondary credits at the same time.

The Alberta Union of Provincial Employees says it is concerned about staffing cuts at Michener Hill Extendicare, a long-term care facility in Red Deer. The union says staffing has been reduced from 18 workers to 15, and that Extendicare is planning further cuts.

The Government of Alberta is spending $1.8M to build a new road connection between Highway 873 and the JBS Food Plant, near Brooks in the County of Newell. The meat processing facility announced a $90M expansion last year and currently employs 3,200 people. The road project is intended to improve traffic flow for JBS staff and the community.

Deep Sky’s $50M carbon removal centre in Innisfail is on track to begin operations this summer. The centre is the world’s first cross-technology facility of its kind, which means it is testing multiple different technologies for carbon removal. It will run 24/7 when open, requiring 10 full-time staff.

Construction is underway on the Critical Medicines Production Centre in Edmonton, an 83,000 sq.-ft. building that will be the largest critical medicines facility in Canada when completed. The project partners are Applied Pharmaceutical Innovation, and the Li Ka Shing Applied Virology Institute at the University of Alberta. Production is expected to begin next year.

Alberta-based grocery store chain Sunterra Farms Ltd. filed for bankruptcy protection in late March and has 30 days to restructure its finances. The company has eight store locations in Calgary, Edmonton, and Red Deer, along with pork processing and greenhouse divisions in Alberta, South Dakota, and Iowa.

Three independent grocery stores across the Lower Mainland are closing due to increased operating costs. Tydel Foods, an affordable butcher shop in Chilliwack, and Columbus Farm Market in North Vancouver are closing. Fresh Ideas Start Here, a fish store in Burnaby, is moving to an online-only business from a plant in Richmond to reduce costs.

The Village of Burns Lake and the Burns Lake Housing Enhancement Society are seeking an Expression of Interest for a partner to operate and manage affordable housing development. Qualified non-profit organizations are eligible to apply.

BC Hydro’s workforce at Site C continues to decline, with 1,604 workers employed in February compared to 1,717 in January this year. BC Hydro expects employment to continue to decrease until this fall when the project is completed.

Cariboo Regional District is allocating $500,000 from the Community Works Fund to the new Red Bluff Fire Hall replacement project in Quesnel. The additional funds will reduce the debt and impact on taxpayers for the project. The project is expected to be completed by late summer or early fall next year.

The Quesnel City Council approved construction for a new hotel beside Highway 97 to support hosting capacity in the city. The hotel will include 79 units, conference meeting rooms, an indoor pool, a fitness area, and a breakfast area.

Brandi`s Place, a café in Nelson, has closed due to high maintenance costs for a broken fuel pump.

The Regional District of Central Kootenay approved a broader scope of conservation and restoration projects in partnership with the Kootenay Conservation Program. Projects include bat habitat enhancement, pollinator habitat restoration, addressing impacts of invasive species, and water monitoring.

Camosun College has eliminated some staff positions and offered voluntary severance pay and early retirements due to low international student enrollments from federal immigration cuts. Camosun College estimates international student enrollment at 1,200 in 2025, leading to an $11M budget shortfall.

The Regional District of Nanaimo is providing $300,000 in grants to four organization for initiatives to reduce landfill waste. From the funding, $55,000 will go to Habitat for Humanity, $137,000 to Light House, $101,000 to Loaves and Fishes, and $7,000 to Synergy Foundation.

A new Youth Emergency Shelter (YES) opened in Duncan on Quw’utsun lands to support teenagers facing crisis, harm, or homelessness. The shelter provides three bedrooms, day programs, overnight accommodation, and outreach for Cowichan youth.

Greek restaurant IL Greco is closing in Victoria on April 13, as the owner seeks to retire. The family-run business opened in 1996.

Island Health opened a new youth health clinic inside Quw’utsun Senior Secondary in Cowichan on April 1. Public health nurses staff the clinic, though Island Health would welcome mental health, substance support, and other workers in the clinic.

The ferry from Anacortes, Washington, to Sidney, B.C., will remain out of service for at least five years due to ongoing issues with crew and vessel availability. WSF announced it will have a fleet of electric ferries by 2030 to resume the service.

The Powell River Sunshine Coast Real Estate Board reported total real estate sales decreased in the qathet region in March 2025 compared to February 2025 as well as March 2024. Compared to February 2025, the median price for single-family homes decreased and total units sold decreased.

The Victoria Real Estate Board reported that Victoria property sales rose by 4.3% in March 2025 compared to March 2024, with a 14.1% increase in condominium sales and 2.1% increase in single-family home sales. Despite economic uncertainty, the real estate market in Victoria remains steady.

Music BC is opening its ARC Accelerator Program for applications on April 17. The program works to support recording artists careers by helping participants develop business, creative and technical skills. In a new three-year partnership, Nettwerk will also offer extra program resources.

Canadian National Railway Co. and Teamsters Canada Rail Conference reached a new three-year agreement for roughly 6,000 employees through binding arbitration on April 7. The new contract is retroactive to January 1, 2024, and includes a 3% wage increase for CN Rail engineers and conductors.

The BC Construction Association’s (BCCA) industry survey report shows that 91% of survey respondents reported being paid late at least once for work done in the last year and 69% reported they were not paid at all for work done in the last year. Payment delays compound uncertainty from tariffs, worker shortages and economic volatility in the construction industry.

Canadian Food Inspection Agency reported B.C. has the highest number of birds impacted by the H5N1 avian flu outbreak in Canada, which continues to impact the poultry industry. From April 2022 to April 1, 2025, the flu has affected over 8.7M birds in B.C., and 14.5M Canada-wide.

Colleges in B.C. that rely on international student tuition are projecting budget shortfalls, layoffs, and program reductions due to low international student enrollment. Since January 2024, the federal government has reduced international student caps by about a third. Rural areas are most impacted, with rural colleges supporting local labour needs.

Statistics Canada reported a $1.5B merchandise trade deficit in February due to a 5.5% drop in exports. Energy product exports fell 6.3%, with export decreases of crude oil by 4.2%, refined petroleum products by 15.3%, coal by 26.9%, and natural gas by 8.9%.

The City of Kamloops has awarded several contracts to build the $154M Kamloops Centre for the Arts. Plans for the project include two theatres, a café, rehearsal halls, meeting rooms, commercial and office space, and underground parking. The city hopes that construction will begin later this year.

Missing Chopsticks, a Richmond restaurant, has announced that it will be closed after May 4. The restaurant said the closure was because the chef is leaving the business, and it was unable to find a replacement.

MOSAIC is hosting a job fair in New Westminster on May 13 and will feature exhibitors hiring for hundreds of vacant positions. The job fair will include various industries such as health care, construction and finance.

The Osoyoos Indian Band has partnered with Weyerhaeuser to help lead management of local forestry holdings. The management project will support fuel mitigation, habitat improvements and will protect culturally significant areas.

The Government of British Columbia has assigned BC Timber Sales (BCTS) with reducing wildfire risk and enhancing forest and community resilience. BCTS manages more than 20% of the province’s public land. The province also approved nine-axle lumber truck and trailers for certain logging routes and announced it would be working to have forest and wildfire salvage permits issued in 25 days.

Western Forest Products has partnered with Stanley Park to plant over 65K seedling trees over the next three years. The goal of the partnership is to replant and restore the park’s tree canopy.

The Government of British Columbia has approved a new 24-unit community housing development in Keremeos. The province will be providing funds through BC Housing’s Community Housing Fund.

Twin Lakes Golf & RV Park has announced a 2025 expansion plan to grow the number of accommodations available to guests. The expansion includes 84 new RV pads, modern restroom facilities, 5G Wifi and potable water services.

Two sections of the Shuswap North Okanagan Rail Trail have been completed. When completed, the trail will be a 50 km multipurpose route from Sicamous to Armstrong that links up with Vernon and continues to the already existing Okanagan Rail Trail. Construction of another section of the trail is expected to complete in six weeks.

Several Metro Vancouver universities have posted job opportunities. Simon Fraser University is hiring for over 30 staff positions, including assistants and ambassadors. The University of British Columbia is also hiring for over 30 hotel auxiliary service workers. Langara College and Vancouver Community College are hiring for interpreters.

Meinhardt Fine Foods, a Vancouver grocery store, closed on March 31.

June, a restaurant and cocktail spot, is opening in Vancouver on April 10.

Taco Bell has opened a new location in Vancouver as part of its expansion plan announced in 2023.

Coast Mountain Bus Company has posted an open call for bus drivers and will be accepting applications until April 13. TransLink has also posted several other positions in project management, procurement and IT.

King Taps is opening a new location in Lonsdale Quay. An exact opening date has not yet been announced.

Heirs Pears, a restaurant in Vancouver, closed on February 25. The business cited increases in rent and food costs for the closure.

Small Victory, a bakery and café, has opened a new location in Yaletown on April 7. The café will have seating for about 40 guests inside and another 20 outside. Small Victory also plans to open another location in North Vancouver in 2026.

Sumas First Nation and the Government of British Columbia have signed an agreement to return the Lightning Rock site to the Nation. Under the agreement, the province will work to facilitate discussions with quarry operators about potential economic opportunities and pledge $1M to support the development of a cultural education and healing centre.

JD’s Barber Shop in Gastown has announced it is closing. The shop employed 15 people before the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the owner, the closure is related to safety issues in the community.

The Vancouver Park Board has approved plans for a replacement for the Vancouver Aquatic Centre. The new centre would feature a 25-metre lap pool, a hot pool and a leisure/lesson pool.

Industrial Light & Magic (ILM) has celebrated the grand opening of its new Vancouver studio on April 4. The new space is 25% larger than ILM’s previous facility and can accommodate around 300 people.

Ramen One in Vancouver has announced that it will be closing on May 18.

Smart N Save is opening a new grocery store in Burnaby. An opening date has not yet been announced by the company.

Say Hello Sweets in Vancouver has officially shut down. The plant-based ice cream brand closed its physical location in February 2024 and had been looking for a retail partnership to continue selling its ice cream.

Sio Bread has opened a salt bread and poke shop in Vancouver. The business is currently running on a soft launch schedule and will be open Wednesdays to Sundays.

Pho 37 has closed one of its locations at Union Square Shopping Centre in Richmond. The last day of operations for the location was March 17.

Paragon Tea Room opened a pop-up at Pacific Centre in Vancouver on April 3. The pop-up will be operating for six months while the brand searches for a permanent location.

Holy Shakes, a Toronto-based desert cafe, will be opening a new location in Delta on April 15. Holy Shakes also plans to open locations in Surrey and downtown Vancouver.

The Government of British Columbia has provided $654K in additional funding to support the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB), Deafblind Community Services and the Wavefront Centre for Communication Accessibility. The new funds will extend intervener services that provide specialized communications support for another year.

The Government of British Columbia has partnered with Cowichan Tribes, Lake Babine Nation and Tsawout First Nation to fast-track the construction of 235 new on-reserve rental homes. When completed these projects will provide 199 homes in Duncan, 20 homes in the Villages of Tachet and Wil’at, and 16 homes in Saanichton.

According to Statistics Canada, employment in Saskatchewan increased by 1% in March, or 6,600 jobs. The unemployment rate fell 0.5 percentage points to 4.9%, the lowest unemployment rate in the country.

The Government of Saskatchewan is providing $2.4M towards the Community Wellness Bus project, offering primary health services in Saskatoon, Regina and Prince Albert. Service began in Saskatoon in April, while the other two locations began operating earlier in the year. The Community Wellness Buses provides basic primary care and mental and addiction services to residents in the community.

Saskatchewan Blue Cross is accepting applications for the Community Investment Program, which provides financial assistance for small projects and equipment to support rural hospitals in Saskatchewan. The funding deadline for rural hospital foundations is June 30, 2025.

Enbridge's Seven Stars Energy project in Weyburn is expected to generate $800,000 per year, or $25-$30M over 30 years, in tax revenue to the local rural municipalities. The 200-megawatt project will provide construction and operation jobs, infrastructure upgrades and tax revenue for the community.

The Government of Saskatchewan has added 40 inpatient treatment spaces at the EHN Willowview Recovery Centre in Lumsden on April 1. The centre provides mental health services and holistic recovery supports for up to 16 weeks.

The University of Winnipeg is launching its first PhD program in bioscience and policy, aiming to attract public-minded scientists and boost Manitoba's knowledge economy. The new program combines research with public policy training, addressing local workforce needs to enhance the province's life sciences sector, and is set to begin intake at the end of summer 2025.

The City of Selkirk is upgrading the historic Garry Theatre with a $350,000 investment, transforming it into a non-profit cultural hub. The project includes extensive renovations and aims to host Hollywood films, live performances, and community events. Construction is currently underway with hopes the theatre will open in the fall.

The Government of Manitoba is allocating $3.3M to expand the RCMP's emergency response team, adding nine officers to address rural crime and high-risk situations.

The Government of Manitoba is providing $6M to Brandon's Park Community Centre for redevelopment, including a licensed non-profit daycare with 62 spaces. This initiative aims to enhance community services, offering a safe and inclusive space for recreation, cultural events, and affordable childcare in downtown Brandon.

The City of Portage la Prairie has allocated $2.6M in its 2025 budget to support local organizations through its Community Grants Program. Recipients like Prairie Fusion Arts & Entertainment and the Portage Regional Library will use the funding for operations, upgrades, and reserves.

Steinbach City Council has approved the first reading of a zoning change to allow a six-unit residential building at 286 Henry Street. While two variances are required, the corner lot's location on high-traffic roads makes it a suitable fit for multi-family development, aligning with the City's long-term growth plan. A public hearing will follow before the final decision is made.

Niverville is set to expand its business community with a new strip mall development approved by the town council. Led by Stonefield Developments, the project will feature five commercial units, ample parking, and a shared patio, boosting shopping options and employment opportunities.

The Manitoba government is providing $171,895 in Export Support Programming funding to help 37 local businesses expand into new markets amid global trade uncertainties. The initiative supports small- and medium-sized enterprises by funding participation in trade shows and international events, fostering economic growth and job creation in the province.

The Government of Manitoba is providing an additional $4.5M to Travel Manitoba to boost local tourism and attract Canadian visitors. With slowed cross-border traffic and rising interest in staycations, the funding aims to highlight Manitoba’s unique offerings, including Indigenous tourism experiences, while reinforcing its role in the province's economy and cultural identity.

The Government of Yukon has bought a former pet store building to create space for supportive services, in a location near the Whitehorse Emergency Shelter. Further announcements will be made in the coming weeks, including the operator of the supportive services.

The Government of Yukon has announced a second phase of response to U.S. tariffs. The territorial government will end rebates for Tesla products, review contracts with Starlink and move away from communications on X, formerly known as Twitter. These measures are in addition to earlier changes that included removing U.S. liquor from shelves and limiting government contracts to U.S.-based firms.

The Conference Board of Canada claims in a new report that Yukon faces a shortage of workers, with the highest job vacancy rate in Canada. The housing market is one of the biggest barriers to people moving to the territory, with rental rates at an all-time high. Retraining of adults already in the territory may be one solution to fill available jobs.

The City of Whitehorse will launch an online permitting system on April 29, allowing builders and other tradespersons to avoid in-person visits to city offices to submit documents and check the status of building permits. According to the City, the new process will be reduced wait times and simplify permitting processes for users.

Fossil Creek Industrial Training Inc. is collaborating on a heavy equipment operator course with the Trades and Apprenticeship Program of Nunavut, aiming to establish a regional training operation in Iqaluit. According to Fossil Creek, the courses are available in Inuktitut.

The Nunavut Mining Symposium opened at Iqaluit's Aqsarniit Hotel, with 377 registered delegates signed up for discussions on issues relating to the mining industry, geoscience, Inuit inclusion, as well as Arctic security.

The communications training firm Trustmakers is offering a free online media training course for Inuktitut speakers. The course is geared towards not-for-profit and public sector situations and is comprised of video exercises and self-directed modules. With experience delivering communications services across the north, Trustmakers emphasizes an open approach to public relations.

The new air terminal for Chesterfield Inlet is operational, though a grand opening ceremony was delayed. According to the Director of the Nunavut Airports Division, the new facility is more convenient, efficient and has a backup power generator, allowing airport services to continue uninterrupted in the event of an outage. Final construction work is expected to continue in the coming months.

The Government of Nunavut has reorganized several departments, launching the new Department of Community Services and the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Nunavut. According to the territorial government, the new structure will result in more efficient and responsive delivery of services.

The Town of Hay River will support the Government of the Northwest Territories' position in opposition to CN Rail's decision not to rebuild a rail line connecting the town and Enterprise, an important transportation link for goods within the territory. The territorial government has brought the matter to regulators.

The Yellowknife Co-op has acquired Super A Foods grocery store in Hay River. The new ownership comes as the co-operative is considering a name change that its board president had hinted would give the organization "more flexibility" to expand into new territory.

Imperial Oil has requested an environmental assessment regarding the eventual closure of its Norman Wells oilfield, a process expected to take five to seven years to complete. The assessment would serve as the basis for an eventual closure and reclamation plan.

Aurora College has added new program offerings beginning in the fall of 2025, including a general studies diploma, which can be completed in-person at the Thebacha Campus or through distance learning, as well as new automotive technician and pipe trades programs. According to the college, the new offerings will help prepare students for the modern workforce in the North's crucial industries.

With diamond prices declining due to lower overseas demand, the rise of lab-grown diamonds, and tariff uncertainty, a new report raises concerns about the future of diamond mining in the Northwest Territories. The Impact Economics report highlights the lack of a replacement industry to fill the economic gap if the mines close.

The Town of Hay River has begun consultations on by-law changes aimed at allowing more housing and reducing barriers for construction. The town is also exploring options to increase the availability of accessory dwellings, as well as modular and temporary dwellings. Results will be brought forward to Council later this year.

Funding is available from Housing NWT under the Homeowner Repair Program, which is accepting applications until October 31. Loans of up to $5,000 are available for maintenance and minor repairs, as well as up to $50,000 for major home repairs for seniors or modifications-related to mobility. Repairs are scheduled to begin in April 2026.

The emergency department at the Chetwynd General Hospital closed for 25 hours from March 27 to March 28 due to staffing shortages.

The City of Dawson Creek has bought a health clinic at risk of closure. The clinic will be renamed to the Rimrock Health Centre and will be converted into a Primary Care Network, providing medical care through family physicians and other health-care professionals. The new clinic is hiring 21 new health-care providers such as physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, dietitians, and social workers.

The Saulteau First Nations of Moberly Lake is receiving funding to install 40 residential solar panel systems through the province’s First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund. The funding is part of British Columbia's larger initiative to provide $1.49M to support 12 clean-energy projects.

The provincial government has earmarked $19M in its proposed 2025 Budget for flood and drought prevention projects in eight municipalities and two First Nations. These include design funding for riverbank restoration in Swan River First Nation and improvements to a storm water ditch that connects Calgary to nearby Langdon.

The Centre de services scolaire Marie-Victorin is investing over $41.3M, funded by the Government of Quebec, in expanding École Saint-Laurent in Brossard. Specifically, the expansion includes adding 16 classrooms. The project is scheduled to begin in April. Ultimately, the school will have 31 classrooms.

AIDE-TIC is an organization that aims to improve access to IT in Quebec by supporting infrastructure projects. The organization received $8M from the Government of Quebec, the Innu community of Essipit, and the regional county municipalities of Fjord-du-Saguenay and La Haute-Côte-Nord. In collaboration with Rogers Communications, the investment will be used to improve cellular coverage in two regions.

AIDE-TIC is an organization that aims to improve access to IT in Quebec by supporting infrastructure projects. The organization received $8M from the Government of Quebec, the Innu community of Essipit, and the regional county municipalities of Fjord-du-Saguenay and La Haute-Côte-Nord. In collaboration with Rogers Communications, the investment will be used to improve cellular coverage in two regions.

Lassonde, a company that produces fruit juice, will invest $10M in a new packaging line at its plant in Rougemont. The project is expected to be complete in the second half of this year.

The Municipalité de Saint-Charles-sur-Richelieu inaugurated the start of construction on its future fire station. The $9.5M project, funded with $5.1M from the Government of Quebec, started in April and should be complete in the summer of 2026.

Groupe Sutton-Actuel, a real estate agency, in collaboration with Lefebvre Conseils, a human resources firm, are organizing a job fair in Sorel-Tracy. The event will take place on April 26, and the organizers hope to host up to 20 businesses.

Groupe Abbatiello, a company specializing in restaurant franchises, announced that a Jack Le Coq location will open in Baie-Comeau. The project is scheduled to start this spring, and it will be complete in September.

The Centre de services scolaire de la Vallée-des-Tisserands announced that construction on the future 24-classroom school, which began last summer in Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, should be complete by the 2026 school year

The Centre de services scolaire des Samares will expand the École primaire Sainte-Bernadette in Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes to double the school’s capacity. The school, which will be renovated at a cost of over $20.2M, will have 17 classrooms, and it should be complete by the start of the 2026 school year.

Domtar, a company specializing in wood products, is closing its sawmill in Rivière-aux-Rats in La Tuque for an unspecified period. This decision affects around 30 employees.

The Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, in collaboration with the developer Éric Désilets, announced that the Oasis du Lac student residence has opened in the borough of Pointe-du-Lac

Cascades Containerboard Packaging, a paper manufacturer that mainly uses recycled fibres, received $5.3M from the Government of Canada to fund two innovative projects at its mill in Témiscouata-sur-le-Lac. The projects involve producing liquid hemicellulose and reducing its emissions.

Topla!, a restaurant chain specializing in pasta, will open a location in the Quartier D’Astous in Rimouski in June 2025. Construction Technipro BSL, a local contractor, is carrying out the project.

The Ville de Matane awarded a contract valued at over $2M to Démex, a demolition, deconstruction, and recycling company in Saguenay. Under the contract, the company will dismantle the former RockTenn mill by March 2026.

The Centre de services scolaire des Phares announced a $7.4M investment in expanding the Centre de formation professionnelle Rimouski-Neigette in Rimouski. The project is scheduled to be complete by early summer in 2026.

Alstom, a company specializing in the transportation sector, is looking to hire industrial assemblers and painters at its rolling stock factory in La Pocatière

Groupe NBG, a sawmill, is investing $15M in acquiring equipment and expanding its mill in Rivière-Bleue. The project will help maintain 45 jobs. The Government of Quebec is investing $1.4M in the project.

Hydro-Québec and EcoPro, a Korean company specializing in cathode materials, signed a $23M agreement to establish a pilot production line in Shawinigan. The production line will develop more efficient batteries for electric vehicles.

Groupe Lebel, a wood products manufacturer, is closing its sawmill in Saint-Joseph-de-Kamouraska for an unspecified period. The decision affects 15 employees.

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has laid off over 200 employees at the Shawinigan—Sud National Verification and Collections Centre since February 2025, including 150 employees who were based in other regions. The centre employs a total of around 2,000 workers, about half of whom are temporary.

Laura, a chain of women’s clothing stores, closed its store at the Carrefour Rimouski shopping centre

The Centre intégré de santé et de services sociaux du Bas-Saint-Laurent announced that 142 jobs will be cut in addition to the 41 cut last fall. The cuts include around 100 vacant positions.

Waterville TG, a manufacturer of rubber weatherstrip seals, laid off 15 people at its factory in Waterville due to a slowdown linked to U.S. auto tariffs

Frima Studio, a video game developer based in Québec, laid off 37 employees due to operational restructuring. This decision was made in the context of reduced tax credits for the production of multimedia titles (CTMM) and the interruption of a project.

The Centre hospitalier universitaire (CHU) de Québec-Université Laval inaugurated a research centre, which is part of a hospital complex (NCH) that is being built in Québec. The centre, built at a cost of $90M, employs over 200 people.

Real estate developers are investing $3M in refurbishing the former Sacré-Cœur presbytery in Saguenay to convert it into a 19-room hotel called the Château Cran Chaud. The ongoing project should be complete in June. A restaurant is scheduled to open by the end of 2025.

A&W, a restaurant chain, will inaugurate a new location in Saguenay this spring. The company invested around $0.8M in renovating the franchise.

Hydro-Québec, a producer and distributor of electricity generated in the province, will invest around $100M in acquiring three planes to transport its employees throughout the province

AGGA Coffee, a coffee-roasting company, invested $1.6M in acquiring automated equipment for its plant in Laval. The Government of Quebec contributed financially to the project.

Toys “R” Us, a toy retailer, will close four stores in Montréal, Pointe-Claire and Sherbrooke. As a result, 89 employees will lose their jobs.

Toys “R” Us, a toy retailer, will close four stores in Montréal, Pointe-Claire and Sherbrooke. As a result, 89 employees will lose their jobs.

The Ville de Granby is investing $30M in improving its road and cycling infrastructure. The Government of Quebec is contributing $6.1M to the project.

The Government of Quebec is investing $13.7M in Sherbrooke’s detention facility to increase inmate capacity and improve officer safety

The Welcome Hall Mission, a Montréal-based organization that helps people in need, invested $7M in opening the Centre de MBA2. The centre offers a transition housing program. Fifty people experiencing homelessness will receive housing for a maximum of three months.

There is a shortage of 230 dental hygienists to meet the demand in Estrie

There is a shortage of 800 dental hygienists to meet the demand throughout Quebec

Broccolini, a construction company that is headquartered in Kirkland and has two branches in Ontario, laid off around 60 employees

The Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM) will hire around 40 police officers to respond to crime and homelessness in the Village neighbourhood

Hôtel Coaticook, a new hotel that will include a restaurant, is investing up to $1.5M in adding 10 rooms following renovations to the building in Coaticook. The project should be complete by June at the latest.

The Government of British Columbia is providing $62M in grant funding to support five affordable housing projects in Greater Victoria. The projects will help deliver 530 new rental homes to people with low to moderate incomes, including Indigenous people, seniors, people with disabilities, and people experiencing homelessness.

Nakusp Integrated Health Inc., a community health centre in Nakusp, will receive financial support from the West Kootenay Boundary Community Investment Co-op to expand health-care services. The centre currently has five treatment rooms, offering massage therapy, physiotherapy, chiropractic care, naturopathy, counselling, foot care, and other holistic services.

The Genelle Fire Hall is slated to close due to staffing shortages. The department will move services eight kilometres away to another location. Two advocacy groups are requesting the fire department remain open and should the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary approve, the fire department will screen 33 applicants for training and potential hire.

A new childcare facility in Williams Lake is nearing completion. The daycare centre will provide 119 seats and is expected to open some time in spring 2025.

The Government of British Columbia is providing $62M to support 770 new childcare spaces across Vancouver Island. Of the new spaces, 146 of them will be part of the province's $10 a day program.

Three projects in Kootenay Boundary are receiving over $1M through the province's Active Transportation Infrastructure grant. The funding will help improve safety and accessibility along trails, in addition to constructing a pedestrian and cyclist bridge crossing.

The Cowichan Valley Regional District is receiving $423.5K through the province's Community Emergency Preparedness Fund. The funding will support the district’s fire department grant project, operations training, and emergency equipment upgrades.

The City of Prince Rupert is currently offering $20K worth of grants through its Façade Improvement Program. The initiative aims to encourage customer traffic and improve business visibility by upgrading storefronts and building exteriors.

The former Howard Johnson hotel in downtown Nanaimo began demolition work on March 26. No demolition timeline or future development plans have been announced.

A temporary location for Victoria's Nellie McClung library recently opened on March 26. The original location is scheduled for demolition this summer and a mixed-use building is planned for construction in its place. The new building will feature 200-plus rental units and a bigger library.

Ramen Arashi, a Japanese ramen restaurant, recently opened in Langford. The restaurant is expected to create 40 new jobs, hiring both part-time and full-time positions for managers, servers, and kitchen staff.

The qathet Regional Hospital Board and Vancouver Coastal Health are spending $3.5M to support hospital infrastructure and equipment upgrades. The funding will go towards a patient monitoring system and a surgical video system, in addition to upgrading dumbwaiters, pharmacy rooms, and the emergency department triage process.

No Frills, a discount grocery retailer, is opening two new stores on Vancouver Island in the coming months. One store will open in downtown Victoria and the other in Chemainus.

Gina’s, a plant-based Mexican restaurant, opened on March 28 in Vancouver.

JD’s Barbershop in Vancouver has announced it closed its Gastown location on March 31. According to the owner, challenges over the past few years led to the shut down.

BC Ferries has announced it will be operating an addition route from Vancouver`s Tsawwassen terminal to Nanaimo’s Departure Bay terminal this summer. According to BC Ferries the new route is part of the company’s strategy to enhance customer travel while ensuring reliability.

Reliance Properties has announced that it will convert its 12-storey office tower on West Hastings St. into the Le Germain Hotel Vancouver. The new hotel will have 180 guest rooms and is expected to open in 2029.

Construction has begun at Ben Lee Park on a $800K infrastructure project. The project will replace the aging irrigation infrastructure in the park. Phase 1 of the project is expected to complete by May.

The Government of British Columbia is providing the City of Merritt $60M to relocate and rebuild two dikes on the banks of the Coldwater River that were damaged during the flooding of November 2021.

King Taps, a British Columbia-based restaurant, is opening a new location in Langley. In total, the restaurant will employ over 200 full and part-time workers at the 11K sq. ft. location.

Several large employers are hiring for jobs in Vancouver this April. Home Depot is filling several retail positions, while Parq Casino is hiring for roles ranging from cocktail servers to accountants, and Earls Kitchen + Bar is hiring for all service and kitchen positions. Public service positions at Elections Canada, the RCMP and Vancouver Coastal Health are also available.

Kin and Folk, a Penticton-based restaurant, is opening a new location in Kelowna by summer 2025.

Superbaba, a fast-casual Middle Eastern restaurant, is opening a new location in Vancouver. The opening date for the restaurant has not yet been announced.

Marshalls, an off-price clothing store, has opened a new location in downtown Vancouver. This new store is part of Marshalls’ owner TJX Companies expansion strategy.

The City of Vernon has approved up to $30K to construct a new cricket playing surface at the Department of National Defense park area.

Troika Developments has begun construction on a 160-unit rental building in Kelowna. The project is expected to complete in 2026.

Flair Airlines has announced a plan to increase its flight frequency out of Vancouver and Abbotsford airports with fewer flights to U.S. destinations in response to falling demand. The airline also announced it will be operating a new year-round flight between Kelowna International Airport and Calgary International Airport.

The Government of British Columbia has announced $24M in funding for 53 active transportation projects across the province, including 10 in the Capital region. The funding supports additional sidewalks, bike lanes and pedestrian safety measures.

A new interpretive centre and observation deck has opened at Amphitrite Point in Ucluelet. The new venue has a capacity of 50 to 60 people and will provide a space for non-profits to run programs. The Governments of Canada and British Columbia as well as the Resort Municipality Initiative contributed a total of about $1.3M to the project.

The Government of British Columbia is spending nearly $4M to support adult education in high-priority careers. The funding will support 23 learning pathways at 11 public post-secondary institutions and Native Education College. The pathways help students upgrade their English, math, and science skills for career programs in health care, childhood education and skilled trades.

The Government of British Columbia has announced that 10 new addiction treatment and mental health beds for Indigenous women will open in Surrey in April. The beds will be operated by the Fraser Region Aboriginal Friendship Centre Association.

Genome BC has received more than $49M in funding through the Canadian Precision Health Initiative for five genomics projects aimed at personalizing healthcare in British Columbia. The research focuses on improving hereditary cancer care, enhancing pediatric drug safety and developing early cardiovascular disease diagnostics.

The Elizabeth Bagshaw Clinic has announced that it will be closing following Vancouver Coastal Health’s decision to shift to a new model for sexual and reproductive health. The clinic provided abortion, sexual and reproductive health services to the community.

The Immigrant Welcome Centre, a community centre serving newcomers to the community, has laid off 6 staff members following 10% funding cuts from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. The organization has also had to cut upper-level language classes. The organization expects to lay off several more people over the course of the year.

Boardwalk Burgers is opening a new restaurant in Vancouver. An opening date has not yet been announced.

The Government of British Columbia has announced that construction is beginning on a family housing complex at the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology Merritt campus. Completion of this project will add about 30 student housing beds to the campus and also includes an expanded childcare facility. Construction is set to complete by fall 2027. The province has provided $19.6M towards this project.

The Crossroads Inn in Kamloops is reopening in fall 2025 following renovations. The facility received new windows and roofing, exterior envelope work, paved parking and refreshed landscaping. The upgrades also include efficiency upgrades. When the facility reopens it will provide 50 units of low-cost housing.

Simon Fraser University has launched its Open Scholarship initiative to make its academic research and data accessible to other scientists. The initiative has received $1M in support from the Tanenbaum Open Science Institute. The funds will support the development of platforms and procedures to help researchers organize and share their data.

The Government of British Columbia has announced it will be funding Phase 2 of the Peachland and West Kelowna multi-use pathway. Phase 1 of the project is expected to be completed this year. The new trail will be 2.8 km long and provide a safe route for active transportation between the communities.

Lee’s Donuts has announced that it will be opening a new location in Lonsdale Quay on April 5.

Fresh Ideas Start Here, a Burnaby-based fish market, has announced it is closing its brick-and-mortar location and moving to an online-only shop on April 30, 2025.

Reformation, a sustainable clothing brand, is opening a Vancouver store. An opening date has not yet been announced.

Columbus Farm Market, a North Vancouver independent grocer, has announced it will be closing June 30, 2025.

The Saanich Peninsula Outreach Team has launched the Central Saanich community health clinic at the Saanich Peninsula Hospital. The clinic began operating April 1 and supports improved healthcare access for vulnerable populations in the region.

The Northern BC Therapeutic Community has opened in Prince George, providing 25 treatment and recovery beds to the community. The building was undergoing renovations and program updates.

Ki Cafe is reopening its Burnaby location on April 4, 2025. It had previously closed in December 2024 after facing economic challenges.

The Just Like Home Lodge in Campbell River is receiving an expansion to include a Healthcare Workforce Housing facility. The facility will have ten units for patients and their families as well as 20 units for medical professionals. Construction of the facility will begin summer 2025 and is expected to complete in 2026.

A bill was introduced in the Yukon Legislative Assembly to allow the Yukon Medical Association (YMA) to negotiate on behalf of all physicians with the territorial government for reimbursement rates and other working conditions. The YMA claims this would lead to fewer disparities among practitioners in the territory.

Gladiator Metals has proposed a five-year copper exploration project within the boundaries of Whitehorse. The Yukon Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Board will evaluate the proposal, considering potential environmental impacts on homes and trails in the city. The company estimates the area could produce over $7B worth of high-grade copper per year.

PriceWaterhouseCoopers has requested to further increase borrowing for its receivership of the Eagle Gold mine for up to $220M. The company is conducting emergency remediation work for the mine, which it took over from Victoria Gold after an environmental catastrophe. Phase 3 of the remediation work is set to begin, as the mine prepares for the spring thaw.

The Yukon Nominee Program will have new priorities after changes announced by the Yukon government. Businesses will submit expressions of interest, and the territory will prioritize skilled immigrants more likely to remain in the Yukon, those who speak French and those with support to obtain a Yukon-specific work permit. The intake period will close on April 22.

Premier Pillai of the Yukon issued a statement summarizing current housing intiatives under the Yukon Housing Corporation's Creating Home plan. These initiatives include the Yukoner First Home Program, with details soon to be announced, and housing developments in Whitehorse, Dawson, and Watson Lake. The Yukon Housing Corporation's Housing Initiatives Fund will also provide up to $4M to support the construction of affordable housing units across the territory.

The Baker Lake Daycare has secured $6.35M in funding for a new facility after the previous facility was destroyed by a fire in 2021. The project will be funded through a $2.48M contribution agreement with the Kivalliq Inuit Association and $3.46M contribution from the Government of Nunavut's Early Learning and Child Care Program.

Amidst rising prices for critical minerals and increasing trade restrictions, Fortune Minerals is developing a project that may provide a source of bismuth, a key resource with minimal production in North America. The Nico deposit in the Northwest Territories is estimated to contain up to 12% of the world's supply of bismuth, as well as three other critical minerals.

The Northwest Territories has added a minister responsible for strategic infrastructure, intended to provide leadership for proposed large projects including the Mackenzie Valley Highway, Taltson Hydrological Expansion, and the Slave Geological Province Corridor. The territory claims these projects will be important for Arctic sovereignty, as well as economic growth and energy security.

Gold Terra has obtained $4.4M to continue its exploratory drilling south of Yellowknife. The company's efforts are focused on the site of the defunct Con Mine and will attempt to reuse some of the former mine's tunnels.

The Northwest Territories government is increasing funding for the Early Learning and Child Care sector. This includes an additional $3.5M for Dedicated Wage Funding to raise wages for educators and $664K for Flexible Funding to offset costs associated with hiring additional childcare center staff. These funding increases will ensure that wages for staff rise by approximately nine dollars per hour, supporting recruitment and retention efforts.

A new day home childcare is set to open in Yellowknife with a total of 8 spaces. The daycare is opening following a mother's unsuccessful attempts to find a space for her newborn, amid a shortage of childcare spaces in the territory.

Through regulatory changes, the Government of the Northwest Territories has removed the territorial carbon tax for consumers effective April 1st. Diamond mines are currently the territory's only large emitters, who will remain subject to the tax. Cost of Living Offset payments will end effective July 1, 2025.

The NWT Youth Water Stewardship and Mentorship Grant Program is accepting applications. Under the program, up to $3,500 in grant funding is provided to young leaders aged 18-30 lead community projects that align with the territory's Water Stewardship Strategy.

The Government of Saskatchewan began construction on the $33.7M project to raise the height of Highway 2 over Trans-Canada Highway 1 near Moose Jaw. The new structures are expected to improve safety, trucking efficiency and traffic. The old bridge will be demolished in April and construction is expected to completed in 2026.

The Government of Saskatchewan is providing $100,000 towards the Queen Elizabeth Scholars program, which supports educational exchange opportunities for students. The program allows post-secondary students to study aboard and gain global experiences.

According to the Canadian Union of Public Employees 5430, which represents over 900 medical technologists and technicians in Saskatchewan, chronic short staffing and vacant positions has led to an increased workload for technologists in the province.

The Government of Saskatchewan recently moved on to the Request for Proposals stage for the new Skilled Trades and Technology building for Saskatchewan Polytechnic in Saskatoon. The Government of Saskatchewan has already provided $18M towards this project. Site preparation is expected in spring 2025 with construction to start in early 2026.

The Hudson's Bay Company is permanently closing 74 stores across Canada, including locations in Regina and Saskatoon. The liquidation process is already underway. Retail sales are expected to be finished by June 15, and the stores will be vacant by June 30.

The Government of Saskatchewan hosted the fourth annual Indigenous Business Gathering in Saskatoon, with over 1,100 people attending and over 130 trade show booths. About 4.7% of businesses in Saskatchewan are owned by Indigenous peoples, above the national average of 3.2%.

Cre8ery Gallery and Studio in Winnipeg's Exchange District is closing permanently on April 20 after 18 years in operation, due to a significant rent increase.

According to the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ annual report, increased visitation and planned events have boosted optimism for Winnipeg's downtown businesses. Despite a net loss of 10 businesses in 2024, ongoing residential construction and decreasing closures suggest potential growth. Safety and office vacancy rates remain concerns, but collaboration and new projects aim to support a vibrant downtown.

Manitoba's minimum wage will increase by 20 cents to $16 per hour on October 1, 2025, reflecting the province's 2024 inflation rate of 1.1%. This annual adjustment aims to support workers amidst rising living costs.

Morden's construction industry is facing a slowdown due to wastewater treatment capacity issues, which have limited the issuance of building permits and hindered new developments. This situation is affecting local construction businesses, which are delayed in proceeding with planned projects. A short-term solution involving assistance from Winkler is being considered, while the City explores long-term infrastructure upgrades.

The Government of Manitoba is providing $6.1M to reconstruct a 1.7km section of Provincial Trunk Highway 11 in Powerview. Construction includes filling in ditches, building sidewalks, and adding curbing, catch basins, and culverts.

Arby’s, a fast-food restaurant chain, recently opened in Winnipeg after closing its last location in Manitoba five years ago due to the pandemic.

The City of Brandon is constructing a new roundabout at the corner of First Street and Maryland Avenue starting next week. The intersection will be closed over spring break for underground utility installations, with construction continuing throughout summer and completing by the fall.

Jette Studios, a film studio in Niverville, recently opened on March 28. The studio is expected to generate 300 new jobs over its first three years and will have high-tech features such as a configurable surround LED screen and state-of-the-art production suites.

The Government of Manitoba has approved building a 10km biking and walking trail along the south side of Highway 3/14. The trail will connect the Cities of Morden and Winkler, in addition to linking Winkler and its neighbouring communities to the Trans Canada Trail network. Construction is expected to begin in spring 2025 and finish by fall 2025.

The Portage Collegiate Institute Hairstyling Program is receiving $26.6K through the Province's Skills Strategy Equipment Enhancement Fund. The funding will go towards adding five new hairstyling stations and renovating a former biology room into a hairstyling studio.

The Government of Manitoba is spending $1.3M to construct a new fire hall in Ritchot’s Ile des Chenes community. The rural municipality is currently choosing a location for the new fire hall and anticipates completing construction by mid-2026.

The Government of Manitoba is launching a campaign to recruit nurses from the United States. The province has created a website and hosted webinar sessions offering American nurses information on the requirements and incentives to practice in Manitoba — including a $5,000 relocation fund. Currently, three nurses have been recruited and over a dozen doctors will be relocating to the province.

Assiniboine College’s Practical Nursing program is currently accepting applications for new students in Steinbach and Neepawa. The program in Steinbach begins in September 2025 and the program in Neepawa will start in January 2027. The college currently offers nursing programs to 11 communities across Manitoba, including permanent sites in Brandon, Winnipeg, Dauphin, and Portage la Prairie.

The Government of Manitoba is providing the Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters with $1.5M in grant funding to develop a made-in-Manitoba tariff response program for manufacturers. The program will provide manufacturers with tariff response support and programming such as training in market diversification, business-to-business networking, and financial support for tariff planning consultations.

Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) has recruited 32 doctors since April 2024, a 30% improvement to the physician shortage rate. PMH has hired several specialists, hospitalists, and family physicians throughout Manitoba, in addition to a physician recruitment coordinator and two full-time staff dedicated to recruiting and retaining health care workers.

Eascan Automation Inc., a Winnipeg-based robotics company offering custom-built machines to manufacturers, recently laid off one third of their employees. The layoffs resulted from a $3 million to $4 million loss in orders as clients withdrew due to the Canada-U.S. tariffs.

The Government of Manitoba and the Mining Association of Manitoba Inc. are partnering to develop and deliver an internationally focused critical minerals marketing campaign. The $1.5M initiative aims to attract new industry partners, diversify export markets, and reduce the effects of tariffs on the critical mineral sector.

Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) is suspending midwifery services in western Manitoba from April 1 to September 30 due to staffing shortages. PMH is actively recruiting more staff, in addition to offering clinical training and mentorship opportunities.

The Government of Manitoba recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for a new gold mine near the town of Lynn Lake. The project will develop two primary gold deposits and is expected to have an overall mine life of 27 years. More than 600 construction jobs will be created over the project’s two-year construction phase and about 450 jobs will be created once operational.

Stardust Solar Energy Inc is expanding its Edmonton franchise, branching out into four territories in Central Alberta. Stardust specializes in renewable energy installation services such as solar panels and energy storage systems. It has franchises across Canada, the U.S., and the Caribbean, and installed 1,200 kilowatts of solar capacity and 189 kilowatt-hours of energy storage in 2024.

Alberta is facing a shortage of pediatricians that will worsen in the coming years, according to the Alberta Medical Association. The physicians’ advocacy organization reports that nearly half of pediatricians are considering retirement, and one quarter are considering reducing their responsibilities or leaving the province.

The Government of Alberta’s proposed 2025 Budget includes $20M for the planning and design of an Advanced Skills Centre at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT). The new facility will add 640,000 sq. ft. of space to NAIT’s main campus in Edmonton, accommodating 4,200 more skilled trades apprentices each year.

Maclab Development Group has completed construction on “The Parks,” a 36-storey apartment tower in downtown Edmonton. The building borders Warehouse Park, a $45M public park and pavilion which is currently under construction. That project is scheduled to be complete by the end of the year.

Construction is underway on a $54.3M events centre in the Town of Whitecourt. The facility will include an 800-seat theatre, an expanded public library, and new administration offices for the municipal government. It is scheduled to be completed in the fall of 2026.

There are 330 housing and apartment units under development in Brooks, the city’s mayor said in a recent interview. Provincial data shows the city of just under 17,000 saw its population climb by 1,500 residents in just two years, between 2022 and 2024.

The Government of Alberta’s proposed 2025 Budget sets aside $330M over three years to improve rural health care facilities. This includes a $15M assessment and planning phase in which 20 rural health care facilities will be evaluated for possible upgrades or replacement.

Calgary Co-op recently opened a new grocery store in the city’s southwest, replacing a previous location on Southland Drive S.W. The new space includes a pharmacy walk-in clinic and a space for gatherings and events. The next phase of the development project will involve a residential build, but the details have yet to be released.

Calgary’s downtown office vacancy rate rose to 30.2% in the first quarter of 2025, up from 29.5% from last quarter and to its highest point since last spring. One contributing factor is Chevron’s exit from the province after selling its stake in the Athabasca Oil Sands Project to Canadian Natural Resources last fall.

West Jet is suspending two of its seasonal routes to the United States amid lower demand for U.S. travel. One of the cancelled routes is from Edmonton to Orlando and the other is from Calgary to New York.

A transitional housing project for LGBTQ2S+ refugees recently opened in Edmonton. Ewaka offers low-cost housing for up to six months, along with social supports for tenants such as mental health resources and legal help.

The Government of Alberta is changing the way it trains truck drivers, offering a new apprenticeship-style Class 1 program. Budget 2025 would allocate $54.1M over three years to help employers attract and retain new drivers.

JobfairX is hosting virtual job fairs across the Atlantic region, providing a platform for job seekers to connect with employers in various fields, including technology, healthcare, and hospitality. These events offer participants the opportunity to explore diverse career options and engage in one-on-one conversations with recruiters.

The Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) indefinitely suspended its training program for music industry professionals. Officials explained that enrollment has dropped over the past year due to the cap imposed on processing international student visas. Between 40% and 60% of the students who were enrolled in this program came from abroad.

New Business Openings: Jamms Coffee Shop (Dartmouth), Stitch & Knit (Dartmouth), Fireside Meadery (Musquodoboit Harbour), and Yeeros Canning (Halifax/Kitchen in Bearly’s).

Two quarries in Colchester County (Will-Kare Paving - McCallum Settlement/Municipal Enterprises Ltd. - New Annan) are expanding to supply essential materials for infrastructure projects in Nova Scotia, including roads and highways, clean energy projects, and housing. Both locations have received environmental assessment approvals.

The N.S. Government is investing $9.3M to enhance support for over 2,800 individuals with disabilities and their families, effective April 1. The funding boosts existing programs, increasing support for Flex Individualized Funding, Direct Family Support for Children, and Alternative Family Support.

Nova Scotia’s minimum wage will increase from $15.20/hour to $15.70 starting on April 1, 2025. A second increase will take place on October 1 to $16.50hour. About 33,700 (or 7.3%) of workers in the province earned the minimum wage between April 2024 and October 2024.

Nova Scotia's health authority says it has hired one American doctor and is in talks with over two dozen more amid recent political uncertainty. Several physicians have also committed to doing locums (short-term contracts) to fill in gaps. The authority launched a digital recruiting campaign in the U.S. back in November 2024.

A new 4-year doctor of psychology program and training clinic focused on children and youth will enable more mental health and addictions professionals to be trained at Mount Saint Vincent University. The N.S. Government is providing $7.9M towards the project with construction starting this year training expected to start in September 2026.

N.L. Based North Sun Energy is continuing its expansion into Nova Scotia with the opening of 7 new Orangestore locations. North Sun Energy is co-owned by North Atlantic and Suncor’s Petro-Canada. The new locations are located in Halifax and surrounding areas and are all established at existing Petro-Canada sites.

JobfairX is hosting virtual job fairs across the Atlantic region, providing a platform for job seekers to connect with employers in various fields, including technology, healthcare, and hospitality. These events offer participants the opportunity to explore diverse career options and engage in one-on-one conversations with recruiters.

TechNL's Find Your Future in Tech program with a budget of $32M budget has enrolled over 3,600 participants since 2023. It aims to train individuals for careers in technology and foster interest in the industry. The 2024 segment of the program has achieved a 94% completion rate as of the end of the quarter.

Ocean Choice International has partnered with a P.E.I. harvester to acquire Terra Vista, the financially troubled crab processing plant in Glovertown. They are seeking urgent provincial approval for a new processing license to operate this season and preserve 65 local jobs. The plant processes about 1.5M pounds of crab annually.

The Public Utilities Board has denied N.L. Hydro's application for a new $110M diesel generating station in Port Hope Simpson (southern Labrador), citing concerns over cost-effectiveness and environmental impact, reflecting the push for green energy.

N.L.’s minimum wage will increase from $15.60/hour to $16.00 starting on April 1, 2025. The federal minimum pay will get a 2.4% increase to $17.75/hour.

St. John's city council has approved KMK Capital’s 10-storey 107-unit apartment building, exempting it from the step-back requirement which the developer said would reduce the number of units and increase costs. Next steps include the submission of engineering and building plans.

JobfairX is hosting virtual job fairs across the Atlantic region, providing a platform for job seekers to connect with employers in various fields, including technology, healthcare, and hospitality. These events offer participants the opportunity to explore diverse career options and engage in one-on-one conversations with recruiters.

Primus Telecommunications Canada, an Internet and phone services provider, laid off 17 of its employees in Edmundston. The layoffs represent just over a quarter of its workforce. Bell, the company that owns Primus, justified these layoffs by stating that it wants to simplify its Internet services portfolio.

Horizon Health reports that between April 2024 and February 2025, the health authority was able to hire 172 new physicians, 1,276 nursing staff, and 286 allied health professionals. Among those hired were 34 family doctors and 510 registered nurses.

New Brunswick’s minimum wage rate increased by 35 cents to $15.65 per hour. Six percent of employees in the province earned the minimum wage last year, with 32% being between the ages of 15 and 19.

The “Buy Canadian” movement is impacting U.S. companies who are seeing reduced or canceled orders from Canadian retailers. Royale diapers made by Irving Personal Care in Moncton, has seen its weekly shipments quadrupled, as the only branded Canadian diaper.

Envision Saint John says the city has untapped potential in its trade infrastructure that could enable a broader export reach. Saint John has connections to various international markets, with a growing port, an airport and three Class 1 railways.

Saint John has received $9.2M through CMHC's Housing Accelerator Fund, which will be used to build 1,158 new units by the end of 2026. The city is faced with a low vacancy rate of around 2% and the aim of the fund is to fast track housing.

JobfairX is hosting virtual job fairs across the Atlantic region, providing a platform for job seekers to connect with employers in various fields, including technology, healthcare, and hospitality. These events offer participants the opportunity to explore diverse career options and engage in one-on-one conversations with recruiters.

P.E.I. chicken producers are faced with a shortage of broiler chicks due to an outbreak of avian flu which has wiped out the supply from the U.S. The Island has eight registered chicken producers, but no chick hatchery and rely heavily on U.S. suppliers.

A report from BuildForce, which represents the construction industry, states that 910 women were employed in trades on P.E.I., an increase of 300 from the previous year. The Island has 7,250 tradespeople, with 5% being women.

P.E.I.’s population saw its first quarterly decline since 2020 as immigration slows to the province. As of Jan. 1, 2025 the Island had a population of 179,280. P.E.I. has seen a net loss of residents to other provinces and had more deaths than births.

Education support workers in nine Alberta school districts have ratified new collective agreements following a series of strikes. Wage increases range from 12.55% to 29.42%, depending on the district. Most contracts are four years in duration, and some also include improvements to health benefits or increases to health spending accounts.

The Government of Alberta’s proposed 2025 budget includes $10M for the Aboriginal Business Investment Fund. This program began in 2014 to provide capital grants for Indigenous businesses, and its annual funding was increased from $5M to $10M in 2022.

The Lethbridge Wellness Shelter is undergoing a $5M expansion that will more than double its capacity, from 90 beds to 200. There will also be added space for programming, and additional staff will be hired to accommodate both new programs and an increase in clients.

Alberta-based commercial bakery Crust Craft is expanding its operations, spending $51M to build a larger facility in Edmonton. Construction will start this fall, with production beginning in 2026. The expansion received $2M in provincial funding and is expected to create 55 new jobs.

Edmonton Transit Services is rearranging its schedules and expanding its fleet to add 50,000 more hours of bus service this year. The City plans to add 20 new buses in 2025 and increase the number of buses travelling to and from the Edmonton International Airport.

Keyano College in Fort McMurray is planning to expand some of its programming with $2M in funding from Alberta’s proposed 2025 provincial budget. The school will prioritize programs such as nursing and paramedicine, to address shortages in rural health care staffing.

The Alberta Utilities Commission recently approved a solar farm in the community of Caroline. PACE Bang Energy plans to build a 14.67-megawatt solar power plant on about 80 acres, with a completion date estimated sometime in 2026.

Red Deer Polytechnic is partnering with Sunchild First Nation to offer hands-on experience and training in the trades. Students at Sunchild First Nation School will study carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work through a project that involves building homes for community elders.

The Government of Alberta is hiring for a variety of full and part-time jobs in a range of areas. Open positions include park caretakers, administrative coordinators, and regulatory compliance officers.

The Government of Alberta has formed a partnership with the Alberta Cancer Foundation and Siemens Healthineers, a German medical technology company. The Province is committing $800M over eight years to replace oncology equipment, build new cancer care centres in Edmonton and Calgary, and establish a research and innovation fund. Its two partners will contribute $24M each to the fund.

Construction on the $15M Kikinow Elders Lodge near Grande Cache is expected to conclude this April. The lodge, a project of the Evergreens Foundation, will have 12 units of affordable housing for Indigenous elders. Hiring and training of staff will begin once construction is complete, with tenants expected to move in by early summer.

A new family medicine clinic is under construction in southeast Edmonton and is scheduled to open this fall. The clinic is part of the Covenant Health’s Community Health Centre, and will include physician’s offices, outpatient clinics, and diagnostic imaging.

The Calgary Region Hydrogen Hub has launched in downtown Calgary, aiming to create 100 jobs over the next five years and attract $75M of private sector investment in hydrogen projects. The hub will be operated by Transition Accelerator, with a total of $3M in funding from the federal and provincial governments, the City of Calgary, and Calgary Economic Development.

The Edmonton Mountain Bike Alliance will begin construction this year on a $1.2M bike park. The new space will be in Edmonton’s Queen Elizabeth Park and is slated to open in spring or summer of 2026. The project has received $613,000 in provincial funding.

Alberta’s information, communications, and technology sector is expected to grow significantly in the next six years, creating 13,600 new jobs and contributing $13B to Canada’s GDP. A new report from the Information and Communications Technology Council says new opportunities in artificial intelligence, cleantech, and quantum computing are driving the growth.

Two physicians have closed their practices at the Bow Island and Foremost medical clinics, resulting in the temporary shutdown of the Foremost clinic. One physician remains practising at the Bow Island clinic. The Palliser Primary Care Network and Alberta Health Services are seeking replacements for the two doctors.

Red Deer County expects the third phase of its Airport Drive road construction project to begin this spring and its completion by mid-September. The $5.5M contract has been awarded to Border Paving Ltd.

Alberta’s proposed 2025 Budget includes planning and design funding for 14 new school construction projects in the Edmonton area. These include additions, modernizations, school replacements, and new builds. Some projects will begin construction within a year, and new builds will take 2-3 years once underway.

Tea Creek Farms, an Indigenous-led, land-based training and employment initiative in Kitwanga, is receiving $1M in provincial funding to develop a food hub and training centre. The funding will help construct a new longhouse, offering workshops on food sovereignty, preservation, and economic empowerment. The centre will also act as a regional hub for emergency preparedness and food coordination.

The Kelsey Recreation Centre pool in Sayward Village is closing indefinitely due to a lack of municipal funding. Two out of eight centre employees have been laid off as a result.

The Victoria Public Market in downtown Victoria is set to close in the coming months. The marketplace will be redeveloped into an urban grocery store by early 2026.

The Crofton Outdoor Pool in North Cowichan will remain open until August 1, after which it will temporarily close to replace underground piping and complete infrastructure upgrades.

The Telkwa Reading Centre recently reopened on March 20 after undergoing upgrades to improve accessibility. The upgrades included a wheelchair accessible washroom, a powered door, and a new sidewalk and ramp.

The Government of BC is providing $158K through the Nechako Kitamaat Development Fund to support six projects across northern B.C. The funding will go towards purchasing equipment, replacing toilets, and installing new electrical and solar energy systems.

The Mills Memorial Hospital in Terrace recently began demolition work on March 18. Deconstruction is expected to take two to three months.

The Government of British Columbia is providing over $1.5M to five Cariboo businesses. The funding will help create 109 new jobs collectively, in addition to constructing new buildings, increasing production, and purchasing equipment.

The New Roads Therapeutic Recovery Community for women recently opened in View Royal this March. The 20-bed facility offers women, Two-Spirit, and gender-diverse people experiencing addiction, incarceration, and housing instability with holistic care and support services.

Peya, a new Indian and French fusion restaurant, has opened in Vancouver on March 19.

Telus and Nvidia have announced a new partnership, including upgrades to Telus’ Kamloops facility. Telus plans to deploy Nvidia's AI semiconductors at its Quebec data centre by this summer, with plans to expand at its Kamloops facility once the initial capacity is exhausted.

Zenbu Aburi has opened a new restaurant in Richmond.

The City of Kelowna has begun working to reconstruct the Albert McGowan water park. The project is expected to complete in August.

The Government of British Columbia is providing up to $6.6M through the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund to seven food manufacturing companies in the province. These funds will support expansion projects that will create more than 165 jobs. Projects receiving funding are located in Surrey, Delta, Campbell River, Victoria, Kelowna and the Fraser Valley.

Ricardo’s, a British Columbia candy and ice cream business, is opening a new gelato store in Vancouver sometime this summer.

Creamy Pony, a North Vancouver donut shop, is opening a new location in Mount Pleasant. The opening date has not yet been announced but is expected for fall 2025.

The Government of British Columbia has cancelled the secondary-suite incentive program due to uncertain financial conditions. The program was aimed at supporting homeowners to build additional units on their properties.

The Government of British Columbia has announced that construction has begun on 97 new non-market homes and a new health-care treatment centre in East Vancouver. The project is a partnership between the provincial government, Vancouver Coastal Health, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation and the City of Vancouver. Construction is expected to complete in 2028.

Costco Wholesale has announced plans to open two more store locations in Metro Vancouver, including the region’s first Business Centre in New Westminster.

The Langara Faculty Association has announced that Langara College will have 200 fewer instructors at the start of the next semester compared to 2023. Many of the eliminated positions were temporary contracts. The college attributes these reductions to a significant drop in international student enrollments due to changes in the federal government’s student visa policies.

The Township of Langley has announced work to upgrade its dike along the Fraser River. This work will improve flood protection and is expected to begin in summer 2026.

The Government of British Columbia is providing $810K to fund upgrades to Sun-Oka Beach Park and Kalamalka Lake Park, two provincial parks in the Okanagan.

Jerusalem Shawarma has opened a new restaurant in Vancouver.

The British Columbia Institute of Technology is launching a new Bachelor of Creative Industries program in September 2025. The full-time degree program will focus on creative innovation, business strategy, and technology, and will take 15 months to complete.

The Government of British Columbia is providing about $1.49M to 12 First Nations across the province to support clean energy projects. These projects will help keep energy costs down and improve access to sustainable energy.

Toys ‘R’ Us has announced the company is closing three locations in Metro Vancouver. The company has not announced a date for the closure and the stores will close based on the speed of merchandise sales. The closing locations are in Burnaby, Richmond and Vancouver.

Columbia Basin Trust is hiring 54 seasonal workers for summer 2025 to build and maintain trails across the Columbia Basin. Workers will gain experience in trail building, carpentry and chainsaw operations. Columbia Basin Trust is providing $390K to 19 recreation organization this year.

Chao Mami Express, a Vietnamese restaurant, opened in Vancouver on March 24.

Elections Canada is hiring for over 200K positions to support the upcoming federal election. Positions range from support officers to poll operations managers.

The District of Clearwater is recruiting for its specialized wildfire initial attack crew. The team will be made up of six volunteers who will undergo wildfire response training. The district is also increasing its FireSmart Fuel Mitigation Crew from two part-time positions to three full-time positions.

The Government of British Columbia has provided nearly $1.23M through the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund to three lumber industry companies in Revelstoke. The funding will support projects that boost sustainability and help protect old-growth sites. Downie Timber is receiving $825K to commission a new debarker system which will protect about 229 jobs. Selkirk Cedar is receiving $250K to upgrade its laminator system which will create three jobs. Big Eddy Machine Shop will receive over $152K to improve milling efficiency and create a job.

The City of Steinbach approved over $4M worth of housing permits and $2.62M worth of commercial projects in February 2025. The City has approved $8.25M worth of building permits for 2025 so far. The growing developments are anticipated to put pressure on city infrastructure, such as roads and wastewater systems.

The Government of Manitoba is increasing Brandon University’s base operating grant by 2% and providing an additional $1.25M for capital projects and deferred maintenance. The funding will support essential infrastructure improvements, including building repairs, elevator maintenance and roof replacements.

The Infinity Women Secretariat recently held a grand opening for the Little Infinity Child Care Centre in St. Andrews. The daycare will provide culturally rooted early learning and childcare to Red River Métis women and families.

Sugar Shop, a body sugaring services and products retailer, recently opened in Brandon on March 24.

The Government of Manitoba is providing an additional $18.7M to upgrade the Rivers Dam at Lake Wahtopanah, bringing the total funding to $65.7M. Work on the upgrades began in summer 2023, and is expected to be completed by 2027.

The Government of Manitoba is providing $3.6M to support the Assiniboine College in expanding its medical laboratory technologist and combined laboratory and X-ray technician programs. The funding will add 20 new spaces for each program, providing up to 40 students annually with hands-on training, practicum placements, and knowledge to graduate job ready. The program is set to launch in 2027.

The Prairie Tides Community Healing centre recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for a new youth treatment centre on West Kildonan's Marymound campus. The $4.5M facility will aid youth struggling with mental health challenges, substance abuse, trauma, and other complex needs.

The Government of Manitoba is providing $2M to launch an artificial intelligence (AI) training initiative. The initiative will help small- and medium-sized enterprises adopt AI technologies by providing training workshops, webinars, and mentorship programs.

The Government of Manitoba is allocating funding to build two schools in Brandon as part of the 2025 provincial budget. One school will be in the Brandon School Division and is expected to open by the 2027 academic year. The other will be a French-language school for the Division scolaire franco-manitobaine, with an opening scheduled September 2028.

Manitoba's 2025 Budget is providing $3.7B to support capital projects for new schools, emergency rooms, personal care homes, and critical infrastructure. The budget is expected to add nearly 18,000 new job and includes a contingency plan to help businesses expand into new markets and upskill workers in light of tariffs.

The Government of Manitoba recently signed a new multi-year funding agreement with the Association of Bilingual Municipalities of Manitoba (AMBM). The agreement will provide the AMBM with $885K over four years to support translation, language training, policy development, and initiatives to attract more bilingual residents and entrepreneurs.

The Southern Chiefs’ Organization is leading a project to redevelop the former Hudson’s Bay Co. building in downtown Winnipeg. The redevelopment is estimated to cost $310M and will transform the six-storey building into 200 affordable housing units for First Nations people, in addition to restaurants, offices, and retail spaces. Completion is expected by 2028.

The minimum wage in the Yukon will increase from $17.59 per hour to $17.94 per hour, starting on April 1, 2025. The wage increase was based on a 2.0 percent change to the Consumer Price Index for Whitehorse.

The Government of Yukon and Champagne and Aishihik First Nations have agreed to finance the renovation of 12 housing units as part of the Our Clean Future strategy. The $1.87M for energy upgrades include installing cold climate heat pumps, ventilation and enhanced insulation, helping to reduce carbon emissions and lower energy bills.

Pangnirtung Fisheries, a commercial fishing business, has received support from various levels of government to train and hire local youth. Nunavut's Economic Development Minister acknowledged the company for its transformative impact on the region, highlighting it as a model for other communities to follow.

A motion picture, "In Alaska", is being filmed in Iqaluit and Apex. Details of the $8M Dutch-Canadian co-production, including the names of actors and its screening locations, have not been disclosed.

The board of Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. (NTI) approved its $29.4M budget, which includes a $4M contribution to the Government of Nunavut for tuberculosis clinical care, as well as a $2M budget for the Nunavut Hunters Support Program, representing an increase of 3.7%. NTI states the funds will aid communities with TB outbreaks, and provide predictable funding for Regional Inuit Associations and the Inuit Heritage Trust.

Polar Egg, a poultry operation in Hay River, is expected to complete a $15M expansion project at the end of May. The company states that its new facilities, a new barn and grading facility, will house an additional 100,000 chickens, allowing it to triple egg production.

With the imminent closure of the frozen Mackenzie Valley Winter Road, supplies including fuel, groceries, and construction materials are being transported to remote communities in the Sahtu region before the thaw. Historically low water levels have led to a lack of barge deliveries in the summer.

White Cliff Minerals Ltd. and the Deline Got'ine Government have signed an agreement to advance the company's mineral exploration in the Great Bear Magmatic Zone while benefiting and collaborating with local Indigenous communities. A drill program is expected to take place later this year.

A first-of-its-kind economic summit is being organized by Indigenous leaders across the Dehcho region from March 24-28. Representatives from the private and public sectors and Indigenous governments will discuss increasing investment in the area, economic reconciliation, and related topics at the Dehcho Economic Development Summit.

The Family Connections program, which is run by the Yellowknife Women's Society and provides services to parents and young children, will be taken over by the YWCA NWT. The organization plans to combine Family Connections with its existing drop-in program. Affected staff have been offered opportunities to move to the YWCA.

The provincial government tabled new legislation aimed at facilitating the arrival of workers in the province by speeding up the recognition of their skills to reduce barriers between provinces

The Tourism Industry Association of New Brunswick (TIANB) is concerned that its budget for tourism marketing has been cut by $905K. TIANB is worried that the province could lose market share to N.S. and P.E.I. and won’t be able to target key markets.

The Moncton, Dieppe, and Riverview councils will add 17 RCMP officers this year, but want to evaluate if the hiring results in crime reduction before hiring an additional 24 officers. The policing authority budget has climbed 65% over four years.

The CEO of Envision Saint John says that while industries like agriculture or paper and pulp will feel the pain of U.S. tariffs, the oil industry will be particularly hard hit. Over 80% of the oil produced at Irving’s oil refinery is exported to the U.S.

The federal government will provide $7M in funding to transform the aging Rothesay Arena into a multi-use facility called the Rothesay Intergenerational Community Center. Total costs for the whole project is estimated to be $36M, once a new arena is added.

Ottawa along with the N.B. and N.S. governments have reached a deal on a 10 year/$650M major infrastructure project to protect the Chignecto Isthmus from flooding. The land link is a vital path for railway, highway, power and communication lines.

Sarap Takeout in Shediac has expanded its Main Street business to include a new international grocery store, specializing in Filipino dishes and products. According to Stats Canada the Filipino population in N.B. has more than doubled from 2016 to 2021.

The University of New Brunswick will add 55 new seats to its 10-month Bachelor of Education program, as well as another 60 seats to its online Bachelor of Education in early childhood education program. The province is faced with a growing teacher shortage.

The Governments of Canada and the N.L. have finalized a 10-year agreement under the Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund that will see N.L. receive $123.1M in critical housing infrastructure funding related to drinking water, wastewater, stormwater, and solid waste. An additional $86M will go towards 73 separate water infrastructure projects across N.L.

The Government of Canada has announced over $26.8M in funding to build a water supply, treatment and distribution system in the Town of Torbay. Upon completion, the project will also help support increased home construction in the area.

N.L. Hydro has proposed 2 expansion projects to the Public Utilities Board at a cost of nearly $2B. The first is a new combustion turbine in Holyrood with construction to begin in 2026 at a cost of about $890M. The second is a new generating unit at the existing Bay d'Espoir hydroelectric dam at a cost of $1.08B with construction to start in 2028.

Some areas of N.L.'s snow crab fishery have seen major quota reductions despite a 9% increase in the total allowable catch. A difficult season (scheduled to begin April 1) is expected due to tariffs, as the U.S. is the largest buyer of N.L. snow crab. Negotiations between the FFAW/Unifor and the Association of Seafood Producers currently remain at an impasse.

This fall will see the opening of P.E.I.’s regional medical campus of Memorial University’s faculty of medicine at UPEI, which has recruited 99 P.E.I.-based doctors. Twenty medical students will be in the first class, who are expected to graduate in 2029.

Next week marks the beginning of the snow crab fishing season, but fishers on P.E.I. are faced with a 33% reduction in their allowable catch and trade concerns with U.S. and China. Crab stocks are on a downhill swing but are projected to rebound in 2027.

The RCMP hosted a P.E.I. symposium with the aim to attract more diverse members to the force. Interested applicants can apply through the Diverse and Inclusive Pre-Cadet Experience (DICE), the Indigenous Pre-Cadet Training Program or the regular program.

The federal government announced $7M in funding to go toward the construction of $25M multi-use facility next to Summerside’s Prince County Hospital. The building will include a child-care centre as well as training and housing spaces for medical students.

The Canadian Real Estate Association says that P.E.I. had a 7.7% increase in home sales year-over-year, compared to nationally which decreased by 9.7%. P.E.I.'s sales increase is believed to be due to interprovincial migration and lower interest rates.

A recent report released by the Federation of Medical Regulatory Authorities of Canada (FMRAC) on the Atlantic Physician Register found that there were no major improvements. The registry was designed to improve physician mobility within Atlantic Canada.

Health P.E.I. is posting 500 permanent full-time positions for its current staff, in order to change part-time and casual workers into full-time employees. The plan is to stabilize its workforce, make it easier to schedule staff, and help reduce overtime.

The Centre intégré de santé et des services sociaux des Laurentides announced that it is cutting 110 positions, including four permanent paratechnical and administrative positions

La Boutique Techno, a business specializing in audio-video, computer and other products, closed its stores in Mont-Tremblant and Sainte-Thérèse

Défis-logis Lanaudière launched construction on 16 housing units for people with intellectual disabilities or autism spectrum disorders in Joliette. The Government of Quebec and the municipality are helping to fund the $5.9M project.

L’Ardoise, a restaurant in Sainte-Thérèse, was extensively damaged by a fire

The Ville de Joliette received $1.4M from the federal government to carry out infrastructure work on its drinking water network

Chagall, a real estate developer, launched the Quartier de la Distillerie realty project in Drummondville. The project estimated at $100M in 2022 will include 250 housing units and commercial spaces. The first building is scheduled to be delivered in the fall of 2026.

The Centre intégré universitaire de santé et des services sociaux de la Mauricie et du Centre-du-Québec will proceed with demolishing the G wing at the Arthabaska hospital in Victoriaville. The demolition is part of a subsidized project to modernize the facility.

The Société de transport de Montréal (STM) selected Cegerco, a general contractor, to rehabilitate a section of a metro tunnel. The repairs, valued at $25M, will be carried out by around 60 employees until the end of 2026.

The federal government is investing over $5.5M in 18 organizations and businesses in Mauricie. The investment is aimed at supporting their development and diversification.

The Maison des aînés et alternative de Trois-Rivières has opened. The facility can accommodate 96 people, including 72 seniors and 24 adults with special needs.

Real estate developers are constructing four buildings with 34 units, including 19 affordable units, in Beaumont. The project, valued at around $9M, is supported by the municipality. The first building is scheduled to be delivered in the fall.

DÉLIRE Escalade, a company specializing in climbing activities, will close its centre in the borough of Beauport in Quebec this May. As a result, 30 employees will be laid off.

The Office municipal d’habitation (OMH) de Saguenay allocated $25M to Cegerco, a general contractor, to construct a 52-unit building on the former HLM Saint-Dominique site in Saguenay. The project will employ 70 people.

Microsoft, a company specializing in information technology, awarded a $50M contract to Cegerco, a general contractor. Cegerco will build substations for its data centres in Quebec. The project will employ around 50 people over two years.

The Société de transport de Saguenay allocated $35M to Cegerco, a general contractor, to build shelters for its electric charging stations. The project will involve around 60 employees, and it should be complete in August 2026.

Rio Tinto, an aluminum smelter, awarded a contract to Cegerco to carry out construction on its plant in Alma. The construction is scheduled to begin this spring and be complete by the end of 2025. The project will employ around 20 workers.

Hydro-Québec is allocating nearly $30M to Cegerco, a contractor from Saguenay, to rehabilitate the Manic-5 generating station on the North Shore. The project, which will involve around 30 employees, is scheduled to begin this spring and be complete in 2026.

Domtar, a company that processes wood fiber-based products, will create 70 new jobs in Gatineau after it converts its newsprint mill so that it can produce cardboard packaging, which has been planned for the fall

Boralex, an energy producer, in partnership with the Apuiat S.E.C., which includes the Innu communities in Quebec, completed assembling a wind farm near Port-Cartier. Ultimately, the wind farm will create around 10 permanent positions.

The Ville de Sept-Îles awarded a contract valued at nearly $3.4M to rehabilitate Des Fougères Street. Location de l’Anse, a local company, will be carrying out the project over the course of the year.

Infasco, a steel parts manufacturer, laid off 12 employees at its plant in Marieville due to the 25% tariff increase on steel and aluminum. Additional job cuts are planned.

The Centre intégré de santé et de services sociaux de la Montérégie-Est inaugurated the day medicine department at the Hôpital Honoré-Mercier in Saint-Hyacinthe. The total project cost was valued at $69M, which also includes the modernization of the emergency department.

Delpharm, a pharmaceutical company, is investing $220M over six years in expanding and modernizing its plant in Boucherville, which employs 500 people. The federal government is contributing $60M in funding to the project.

The Ville de Saint-Lambert awarded a contract of just over $6M to rebuild the Alexandra pool and adjoining chalet. Construction Richelieu from Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu will carry out the project, which will begin this summer and be completed in 2026.

Hydro-Québec, a Crown corporation that produces and distributes electricity, invested $32M in connecting its network to the Anishinaabe community of Kitcisakik located in La Vérendrye wildlife reserve. The project is scheduled to be complete by the end of 2025.

Biron Health Group, a medical care company, will open a sleep clinic in Baie-Comeau by May

The Centre hospitalier universitaire Sainte-Justine is a pediatric hospital in Montréal. The hospital will lay off 26 employees and eliminate 29 positions primarily related to administrative work following budget cuts.

The Ville de Montréal will invest over $100M in continuing to renovate the Complexe sportif Claude-Robillard. The project could take until 2027 to complete.

Matteo Fiorilli is the real estate developer of the Le Bleau residential building, which will include 149 condos in Laval. The first tenants will be welcomed in the summer of 2026. The Government of Canada is contributing over $50M in funding to the project.

The Régie incendie Memphrémagog-Est is investing $3.47M in building a fire station in Stanstead. The Government of Quebec is contributing just over $2.4M in funding to the project.

The Ville de Stanstead is investing $1.75M in reconstructing Passenger Street. The Government of Quebec is contributing over $1.6M in funding to the project.

The Cégep de l’Outaouais is investing $28.7M in expanding the facilities at its Gabrielle-Roy campus in Gatineau. The Government of Quebec is funding the project, which should be complete in the fall of 2026.

The Centre intégré de santé et de services sociaux de l’Outaouais laid off 127 people due to budget cuts. Vacant positions were also eliminated.

The Ville de Laval and the Government of Canada are investing $39M in rehabilitating a 13-kilometre section on Saint-Martin Boulevard

The Winlaw Recycling Depot in Central Kootenay is permanently closing at the end of March 2025. The closure was recommended as the facility accepts fewer materials than other depots and is located too closely to the district’s other recycling centres.

The Government of British Columbia is providing $6.6M to support seven food manufacturing companies through the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund. The funding will support local supply chains and increase food security by adding new product lines, purchasing new equipment, and creating over 165 sustainable jobs throughout the province.

H Mart, a Korean-American supermarket chain, will be opening in Victoria's Mayfair Mall at the end of April or early May. The supermarket will stock a wide arrange of goods including Asian, Canadian, South American, and European products.

The Lakes District Hospital and Health Centre emergency room in Burns Lake closed from March 16 to March 18 due to staffing shortages. The hospital is fully staffed with nurses but has a 55% vacancy rate for physician emergency room coverage. Northern Health is currently recruiting doctors, with two incoming doctors joining this spring.

Selkirk College is launching a pilot project to provide students in the carpentry foundation program with knowledge in energy efficient construction. The three-day project will be held on the Silver King campus in Nelson and will focus on window installation and training not yet included in the current curriculum.

BC Ferries recently reintroduced a major vessel to service after it was removed for repairs and maintenance in September 2024. The ferry serves the company’s busiest route between Tsawwassen and Swartz Bay. BC Ferries is proposing to construct five new major vessels, with a decision pending March 31.

The Salvation Army recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for a new building construction in downtown Nanaimo. The new centre will include a commercial kitchen, emergency shelter beds, and additional programs in addition to more staff, case workers, and councillors.

The City of Nelson is launching a pilot program to incentivize local businesses to separate food waste. The one-year pilot project will reduce the cost of dropping off organic material by 65% and schedule weekly compost pick-ups for participants. The first 25 businesses who sign up will receive a $400 rebate.

An Indian restaurant, Biju's Indian Cuisine, and dessert shop, Scoop and Waffle, recently opened in Sidney.

The Dze L K'ant Friendship Centre Society in Houston recently conducted a blessing ceremony to prepare for a building construction project. Once completed, the new three-storey building will offer workshops, food programs, community gatherings, and areas for youth and family programs. Construction will begin in April and is expected to be completed by summer 2026.

The City of Victoria is planning to replace Crystal Pool with a new swimming facility. Crystal Pool will remain open until late 2026 or early 2027 while design work is being completed. The new swimming centre will cost $209.2M and is expected to open in 2030.

The City of Terrace is reconstructing an 800m section of Thomas Street starting next week. The work includes replacing the water main, repairing sanitary and storm sewers, adding a multi-use pathway, and landscaping.

The Belleville Terminal Redevelopment Project in Victoria’s inner harbour recently completed their first phase of redevelopment. Phase 2 of the project will begin in spring 2025 and will include demolishing the Clipper terminal infrastructure and constructing a new pre-clearance terminal building. The project is expected to be complete by the 2028 tourism season.

The Village of Telegraph Cove has begun rebuilding the wharf and surrounding structures after a fire on New Years Eve. The village will construct a new sewage-treatment plant and electrical distribution system building, followed by offices for whale- and bear-watching companies, pubs, and restaurants. Several buildings are expected to be complete by summer 2025 but may not be operational until spring or summer of 2026.

Novarc Technologies, a North Vancouver-based AI-driven welding solutions company, has secured $50M in funding to expand its research and development. The funding will allow Novarc to accelerate its product development.

Prepac, a Delta-based furniture manufacturer, is closing its facilities and cutting approximately 170 jobs. According to Unifor, the union representing the company’s employees, manufacturing ended on March 14 and all workers are expected to be let go by May. The company is moving operations to its facility in North Carolina. Unifor claims U.S. tariffs may have influenced the company’s decision.

The Government of British Columbia has partnered with the City of Kamloops to provide $416K in funding to create a new child care centre with 36 spaces.

theVenti, a South Korean coffee chain, is opening a new location in Richmond.

Molly Tea has announced it will be opening a new location in Metro Vancouver soon.

According to Cushman & Wakefield Inc., a commercial real estate services firm, strong employment in Vancouver’s life sciences sector could support healthy levels of commercial real estate activity in the region. According to the report, the life sciences employ 14.3K people locally and have a 10-year growth rate of 105.3%. British Columbia is already home to more than 300 life sciences companies.

Chez nous Bakery and Coffee, a French-inspired bakery and café, has opened in Vancouver.

Kwantlen Polytechnic University announced March 10 that it will be issuing full or partial layoff notices to about 70 faculty members amid a reduction in revenue from international admissions. The university is projecting that revenue from international tuition and fees will decline by $49 million over the 2026 fiscal year. The layoffs are mostly expected in the arts faculty and business school.

The City of Vancouver has approved over $11M in grants to support community organizations. Over $7M was granted for 2025 initiatives and $4M was to support multi-year funding for ongoing services and programs. The funding goes to organizations that provide supports to seniors, Indigenous people, at-risk youth and 2SLGBTQIA+ people.

Ralph Lauren, a luxury retailer, is opening a second location in downtown Vancouver. This new store is part of the company’s 2023 expansion plan into Canada.

JJ Bean has announced the closure of its Dunsmuir location in Vancouver. According to the company, the closure was due to safety concerns at the location. The company has plans to open three new locations within the next year and a half.

A Taco Bell location will be opening in Vancouver soon. This comes as part of the company’s 2023 expansion plan that looks to open 200 Taco Bell restaurants across Canada within the next eight years. The Vancouver restaurant does not have an announced opening date yet.

Lafarge Canada has announced it is planning to open a soil-washing facility in Burnaby this summer. The facility would take in contaminated soils from across Metro Vancouver for treatment.

BC Cancer and Interior Health have announced a new clinic planned for Kamloops. The clinic is expected to begin operating in 2028 and will provide radiation treatment and therapy, diagnostics and an outpatient oncology ambulatory care unit at Royal Inland Hospital. Construction of the clinic is expected to start this summer.

The City of Vancouver will soon begin construction on Kamloops-Hastings Neighbourhood Plaza, a new permanent street plaza in East Vancouver. Over the year, the city will be constructing a total of four new street plazas for a total of $8.77M. All four locations are expected to complete construction in spring 2026.

The Government of British Columbia is providing more than $9M through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund to over 230 volunteer fire departments across the province. These funds will support volunteer and composite fire departments to expand their training and purchase new equipment that will strengthen communities’ emergency response capabilities.

Seair Seaplanes is launching new direct routes from Vancouver and Richmond to Salt Spring Island beginning in April.

A new Tesla dealership has opened in Kelowna.

The City of Kamloops has begun construction of a new outdoor skating rink in Riverside Park. The rink is expected to cost $7.16M and will begin operations early next year.

Oh Sweet Day! Bake Shop, a Vancouver-based bakery, is opening a new Port Moody location.

Freshslice Pizza has opened a new location in Oliver. The business will also be offering delivery within the community.

The Government of British Columbia is providing $98M in grants to support the creation of 229 transition housing spaces for women and children leaving violence. Spaces will be located across Vancouver Island and Metro Vancouver in the communities of Duncan, Nanaimo, West Shore, Langley, Maple Ridge, Richmond, Surrey and Vancouver.

The Government of British Columbia is providing $1M through the Critical Food Infrastructure Fund to the Land to Table Network Society for the construction of the Food Shed. The Food Shed will be a warehouse, based in the North Okanagan, which will help distribute food to those in need across the province.

The Government of Yukon has launched a Tourism Dashboard. The website, created in consultation with the tourism sector, provides indicators and statistics to the public on restaurant sales, hotel stays, flight arrivals and other tourism-related figures.

The Government of Yukon will offer letters of support for certain holders of work permits set to expire in 2025. Foreign nationals must have been living and working in Yukon on May 16, 2024, and employers must plan to nominate the permit-holders for permanent residency through the Yukon Nominee Program. Requests must be submitted by April 2.

The federal and Yukon governments are increasing funding for the Affordable Heat Pump Program by $6.3M to help Yukon residents transition to energy-efficient heating and cooling. Under the program, low- to median-income Yukon homeowners are eligible for a rebate of up to $24,000.

The community centre in Tagish, Yukon, was destroyed by fire. In addition to housing artifacts, the centre acted as a regular meeting place, library and event venue for the community. The territorial government has promised to help with building a replacement facility.

The federal government is contributing $74.2M over 10 years for territorial projects aimed at increasing housing supply. These funds will support initiatives like wastewater, solid waste, and drinking water systems, helping to advance housing goals by increasing densification in developed areas and enabling housing growth.

While visiting Iqaluit, Prime Minister Carney announced $253M for Indigenous reconciliation initiatives, including $94M to upgrade power plants and $20M for a hydroelectric project by Nunavut Nukkiksautiit Corporation. In addition, $74M in funding was announced for housing development.

Prime Minister Mark Carney announced $420M to expand the presence of the Canadian Forces in the Arctic and to establish a year-round presence. The funds are in addition to previously-announced initiatives to create military hubs in Nunavut and the Northwest Territories.

The Nunavut Inuit Heritage Centre will receive $50M in new funding for construction following an agreement between Nunavut Tunngavik Inc., the Government of Nunavut, and the Federal Government. The centre is expected to be completed by 2030.

The Kimmirut Air Terminal Building has opened, part of a planned series of upgrades to airport infrastructure in Nunavut throughout 2025. The terminal project was completed with funding from the territorial Department of Community and Government Services, as well as Transport Canada.

The Giant Mine Remediation Project is planning the construction of a water treatment plant, monitoring of revegetation plots, and the demolition of a disused mill in 2025. A boat launch is also scheduled for construction. The ongoing $4B gold mine cleanup project is expected to continue until 2038.

The Northwest Territories government announced plans to use $185M in tobacco settlement funds towards preventative care and efficiency improvements in the healthcare system. The funds are expected to be received over a period of 18 years, with $44M forthcoming immediately.

The federal government will provide $93M in funding for housing in the Akaitcho and Dehcho regions of the Northwest Territories. The funds are part of the Urban, Rural, and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy.

Burgundy Diamond Mines will lay off 35 workers as it transitions its operations from the Ekati Sable pit to the Point Lake pit. The reductions in staff are expected in mid-April. The company plans to lay out a longer-term vision of its operations later this year.

New legislation to regulate engineers and geoscientists has come into force in the Northwest Territories. NAPEG, which oversees licensing of the professions, states the new Act will enhance oversight, align with standards across Canada, and facilitate the employment of out-of-territory professionals to work in the Northwest Territories.

A new location of Ricky's Family Restaurant has opened in Yellowknife. The restaurant offers family-oriented dining, including all-day breakfast, and offers hosting for special events.

The Government of the Northwest Territories has approved its 2025-2026 budget. Among other changes, nearly $42M in Housing NWT funding was added to the budget for housing repairs and renovations.

The NWT Health and Social Services Authority is seeking a hematologist-oncologist and related staff to support the return of blood cancer services to the territory. Services were previously moved to Edmonton, Alberta but due to funding and quality of care concerns, the services will return to NWT Health and Social Services in Yellowknife.

The Government of the Northwest Territories will have a new Indigenous Employment Policy beginning in April. The plan prioritizes applicants who are recognized descendants of First Nations, Metis or Inuit peoples indigenous to the area of the Northwest Territories, followed by those indigenous to areas outside of the Northwest Territories.

The Northern Manitoba Sector Council and the Frontier School Division in Cranberry is hosting a career fair on March 20. Northern Manitoba Sector Council is particularly seeking workers for trades, with opportunities for students, recent graudates and northern residents.

The University of Winnipeg recently launched its first-ever doctoral program, the PhD in bioscience and policy. The program will include public communication and policy implication, ensuring students can communicate scientific results accurately and understandably to the public. Three students have been accepted this fall with plans to expand the program to 10 students within a year.

The former Chapman School property in Winnipeg's Charleswood neighbourhood was recently demolished. Housing development plans are underway to build a six-storey condo building, four townhouses, and parking stalls. Winnipeg is currently experiencing a housing shortage.

The City of Morden is closing their compost site for two weeks to undergo maintenance.

Community Futures and Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program are partnering to host a financial literacy workshop. The online workshop will be held on March 25 and will provide information on understanding key financial metrics.

Community Futures and Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program are partnering to host a marketing plan workshop. The webinar will be held on April 16 and will provide information on business landscapes and developing a foundational marketing plan.

The City of Portage la Prairie is currently offering $15K worth of grants to business owners along Saskatchewan Avenue to improve storefronts and building exteriors. The annual initiative aims to encourage customer traffic by improving business aesthetics.

The Southeast Event Centre recently opened in Downtown Steinbach. The $75M multi-use facility features a gymnasium, conference rooms, an atrium, and a restaurant that will be used for sports, entertainment, and community functions. The centre is expected to boost employment, tourism, and community engagement in the city. An official grand opening will be held in late summer.

The Portage Learning and Literacy Centre in Portage la Prairie is undergoing renovations to expand the facility. The additional space will house two offices and a classroom for employment training, English language classes, and Adult Education classes. Construction will begin after the ground has thawed and will be completed by August or October. The centre is currently hiring staff for the Resettlement Program starting in April.

The Southeast Event Centre will be operating a farmers’ market this summer in downtown Steinbach. The farmers' market will open every Tuesday from June to the end of September.

The Jolys Regional Library in St. Pierre is undergoing renovations. Demolition work starts this weekend, with construction expected to be completed in three to four weeks.

The City of Portage la Prairie is currently hiring seasonal labourers to perform a variety of manual labour tasks in various city facilities. Application is open until Wednesday March 26th, 2025.

A new community hub has opened in the southwest Calgary neighbourhood of Sunalta, offering social supports, community building activities, and food security programs. The Sunalta Community Hub received $3M from the city of Calgary toward its total $5M cost.

Edmonton Screen has launched a new online platform to support those working in Alberta’s television and film industry. The website, Screen Access Alberta, includes career mapping tools and information on job and training opportunities. It was formed in partnership with the provincial government and Calgary Economic Development.

Alberta’s reserves of natural gas are nearly six times higher than previously thought, according to a new study commissioned by the Alberta Energy Regulator. Preliminary estimates also show an increase in proven oil reserves to 167B barrels from a previous count of 159B. The Government of Alberta says the new assessment supports the case for doubling oil and gas production in the province.

Housing starts in Calgary increased 44% in February compared to the same period the previous year, according to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. The city has seen a rise in building permit applications since passing a rezoning bylaw last spring, which allows a greater variety of housing types in lots zoned for single-family homes.

Fantasia Dogs, a water park for dog owners and their pets, has opened at West Edmonton Mall. The park also includes a dog day care and a training space for service dogs.

Field’s department store is reopening in Athabasca just two months after closing its 49th Street location. The company’s owner and CEO says the new location will likely be open before the end of March.

The Town of Innisfail is spending $2.6M to complete two major underground infrastructure projects this year. The projects involve repairs to and replacement of water and sanitary pipes. Contracts for both have been awarded to Pidherney’s Inc, a company based in Rocky Mountain House.

The City of Calgary is planning to replace the Victoria Park bus garage, building a new facility in Alyth/Bonnybrook/Manchester that will be double its capacity. The project is entering the Master Planning stage and will be developed over the next 12-15 months.

Rocky View County Council says it has been approached by two companies hoping to build data centres in the county. Kalina Power and Kineticor have each proposed data centre and power generation facilities that would create about 300 jobs and cost $10B. Council intends to meet with both companies and prepare a report outlining next steps.

Grande Prairie’s Northwestern Polytechnic has launched a new Social Work Diploma, looking to address growing demand for social workers in northern Alberta. The two-year program begins in fall of 2025.

The Government of Alberta is planning to add 700 new acute care beds in two Edmonton hospitals. Budget 2025 includes $2M in planning funds for 350 beds at each of the Misericordia and Grey Nuns Community hospitals. A timeline for construction has not yet been released.

Ontario-based renewables company reconcept Canada is planning a 22-megawatt solar facility south of Lacombe. The company hopes to build 43,000 panels on 133 acres of land. If the project is approved by the Alberta Utilities Commission, construction is scheduled to begin in 2027 and conclude later that year.

The Alberta government’s proposed 2025 budget includes funding to build 16 new schools and modernize two existing schools in Calgary and surrounding areas. These projects will add 14,400 new and updated student spaces when they open in about two years. Rapidly increasing enrolment in Calgary has led to capacity issues in the city’s existing schools.

A week after filing for creditor protection, the Hudson’s Bay Company has announced it will be liquidating its entire business. The company employs 9,364 people in its 80 department stores across the country, including 16 stores in Alberta. It is unclear when each store will close, but the company says it hopes to begin liquidation immediately and conclude by June.

The Government of Alberta’s proposed 2025 budget allocates $8.5B over three years for roads, bridges, and other infrastructure projects. This includes the twinning of highways 3 and 11 and improvements to Deerfoot Trail in Calgary. The funding is expected to create thousands of construction jobs across the province.

Construction will begin this summer on the $14M National accessArts Centre in Calgary. A community hub for artists with disabilities, the project has received $8.2M in federal funding to build the net-zero carbon facility, which will include studio, gallery, and training spaces, as well as a performance venue and a café.

The federal and provincial governments are allocating a combined $70M toward Alberta’s homelessness strategy. The funding will be split between Edmonton, Calgary, Red Deer, and Lethbridge. It is earmarked for increasing shelter capacity, building transitional housing, and supporting the Province’s resource hubs in Edmonton and Calgary.

The Alberta Medical Association is concerned that fewer medical students are choosing Alberta for their residency programs. This year 31 positions in the province still open after a round of applications, where medical students rank their preferred locations. Most of the vacant residencies are in family medicine.

Taza Development Corporation is planning to build the new Taza Park urban village on Tsuut’ina Nation. Just west of Calgary, Taza Park will include 6,500 new homes and more than 1M sq. ft. of commercial and retail space. Construction is expected to start in June with some homes complete by next summer.

Entos Pharmaceuticals, a Canadian biotechnology company, is planning to build a $198.5M facility in Edmonton. The biomanufacturing facility and research and development centre will create 90 new jobs and 69 placements for co-op students. The project has received $62M in federal funding.

Breathe Outdoors, an Alberta outdoor gear retailer, is permanently closing all three of its stores over the next six months. The company’s two stores in Edmonton will close on April 30 and June 30 and its store in Calgary will close September 30. The closures will affect 73 employees.

RDÉE PEI is launching a brand-new program called “Promotion des métiers et emplois verts.” This program, which is spread over two fiscal years, aims to raise awareness among high school students within the French-language school board of career opportunities in fields related to sustainable development and the environment.

SkillsPEI is hosting its Job Fairs on April 8 at the Delta Hotel in Charlottetown and on April 15 at the Credit Union Place in Summerside.