Chamber Statement, Federal

EDMONTON, AB – The Edmonton Chamber of Commerce welcomes the Government of Canada’s 2025 Budget: Canada Strong. The budget takes steps to strengthen Canada’s economy, support business growth, and build resilience at a time when certainty and competitiveness are top of mind for employers. 

Public investment at this scale demonstrates confidence and is essential for attracting new private sector investment, helping businesses innovate, expand, and create jobs in Edmonton and across the country. 

“Budget 2025 shows a clear commitment to driving economic growth and job creation. The investments announced will help boost productivity, attract capital, and strengthen the business climate in Edmonton. These decisions build confidence for employers and investors and set the stage for stronger economic momentum,” said Doug Griffiths, President and CEO of the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce. 

While the $78.3 billion dollar deficit is significant, it reinforces the importance of turning this spending into real economic returns. Strategic investments in infrastructure, housing, productivity, and skills can strengthen Canada’s business environment and support growth. If these investments stimulate growth, attract capital, and improve productivity, they can help reduce the deficit over time through a stronger economy. 

“This budget recognizes what business owners have been telling us. Our State of the Economy report highlighted the need to boost productivity, build a stronger workforce, and diversify trade. Seeing these priorities show up in federal policy is a positive step for Edmonton’s business community,” said Heather Thomson, Vice President, Economy and Engagement. 

Several items championed by the Edmonton Chamber through our Federal Action Plan were reflected in this budget, including commitments to: 

• Strengthen and modernize the Scientific Research and Experimental Development tax credits 
• Improve capital cost allowances for buildings, equipment, and intellectual property 
• Introduce a Canada-first approach to federal procurement that opens more opportunities for small and medium-sized businesses 
• Increase support for skills and workforce training through Labour Market Transfer Agreements 
• Improve foreign credential recognition to help employers access talent more efficiently 
• Shift from emissions caps to technology-driven incentives that support energy innovation 

Looking ahead, the Edmonton Chamber will continue working with the federal government to build on this momentum. Continued progress on tax and regulatory modernization, interprovincial trade, and urban infrastructure is crucial to strengthening Canada’s competitiveness and supporting long-term growth for Edmonton’s business community. 

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