EDMONTON, AB – May 19, 2026 – To celebrate the beginning of the 2026 Upper Bound AI conference, the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce announced a new partnership with Grow with Google to provide Chamber members with free access to Google’s AI skills training programs. 

While generative AI has the potential to boost Canada’s economy by $230 billion, nearly half of businesses report needing support to integrate these tools into their operations. This initiative directly addresses that gap, by empowering local businesses with access to AI skills that will help to level the playing field, drive efficiency, and unlock new growth. 

Through this Grow with Google partnership, the Edmonton Chamber will facilitate the distribution of scholarships to Google’s AI training programs to local small businesses, including AI Essentials and other offerings for professionals. 

“Our members are the engine of Edmonton’s economy, and we are committed to giving them the tools they need to succeed,” said Doug Griffiths, President and CEO, Edmonton Chamber of Commerce. “Edmonton is well known as a hub for AI research and innovation, and this partnership with Google is about ensuring our local businesses and professionals can also lead the way in AI adoption. When our businesses are stronger and more competitive, our whole city benefits.” 

“We are thrilled to work with the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce to help more local businesses find new opportunities with AI,” said Laurence Therrien, Public Affairs Manager with Google Canada. “AI is changing how we work, and by providing practical, job-focused AI skills training, we hope to help unlock the economic promise of AI for and help more businesses in the Edmonton area use these tools to save time, innovate, and grow.” 

The announcement was welcomed by municipal and provincial leaders. 

“Edmonton is already recognized around the world as a leader in artificial intelligence, and it’s incumbent upon us to translate that expertise into real opportunities for the small businesses and workers who power our local economy,” said Mayor Andrew Knack. “Initiatives like this Google and Edmonton Chamber partnership, help ensure the energy and innovation on display at Upper Bound translate into meaningful opportunities for Edmonton’s small businesses. By investing in practical and responsible AI skills training, we can help local businesses save time, grow, and remain competitive while supporting good jobs and long-term economic growth.” 

This partnership marks the launch of a broader AI programming stream at the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce, designed to support local businesses and professionals at every stage of their AI journey. In the months ahead, the Chamber will roll out additional initiatives, including the AI Work Readiness Summit on June 12, that build on this foundation and ensure Edmonton's business community has sustained access to the training, tools, and connections needed to thrive in an AI-powered economy. Today's announcement is the first step in a long-term commitment to making Edmonton one of the most AI-ready business communities in Canada. 

The Chamber doesn't just connect Edmonton's business community; we also work to enrich it, and today's AI programming announcement adds to a robust slate of member-focused initiatives already underway. From defence procurement training to the upcoming Work Readiness Summit, the Chamber continues to deliver the programs, tools, and connections that help Edmonton businesses make the most of every opportunity. 

About the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce 

The Edmonton Chamber of Commerce is one of the longest-running and most influential business organizations in Canada. For over 130 years, the Chamber has been a leading voice for business and a dedicated partner in Edmonton’s success. With a network of over 1,700 member companies that employ more than 100,000 people, we are a trusted connector and advocate for the business community. 

About Grow with Google  

Grow with Google is committed to creating economic opportunity for all Canadians. For more than 20 years, Google has been working in Canada to provide the digital skills, training, and tools people and businesses need to thrive. Since 2017, Grow with Google has trained more than one million Canadians in digital skills, helping them find jobs and grow their businesses.