At a Glance - Week of July 16, 2025
Alberta and Ontario Sign Two Memorandums of Understanding
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Ontario Premier Doug Ford signed two memorandums of understanding (MOUs) during Ford’s visit to the Calgary Stampede, aiming to strengthen interprovincial trade and infrastructure development. The first MOU focuses on creating strategic trade corridors and energy infrastructure, while the second MOU outlines Alberta’s commitment to consider prioritizing Canadian-made vehicle purchases for its government fleet.
Premier Danielle Smith commented on the announcement: “Alberta and Ontario are joining forces to get shovels in the ground and resources to market. These MOUs are about building pipelines and boosting trade that connects Canadian energy and markets to the world.” Premier Doug Ford added: “In the face of President Trump’s tariffs and ongoing economic uncertainty, Canadians need to work together to build the infrastructure that will diversify our trading partners and end our dependence on the United States.”
Ottawa Announces Funding for Five Alberta Carbon Capture Projects
The federal government has announced $21.5 million in funding for five carbon capture, utilization, and storage projects in Alberta, aiming to advance clean energy technologies and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Companies receiving funding include Bow Valley Carbon Cochrane Ltd., Enhance Energy, and Enbridge to help retrofit gas extraction plants and develop carbon storage hubs in central Alberta.
The announcement comes amid broader efforts like the $16.5 billion Pathways Alliance project, which seeks to build one of the world’s largest carbon capture, utilization, and storage networks. Together, these investments underscore Canada’s commitment to a low-carbon future through innovation and industry collaboration.
Continued Support for Manufacturers in Alberta
The Government of Alberta has announced a $4 million investment to support small and medium-sized manufacturing businesses through the Alberta Manufacturing Productivity Grant. This two-year pilot program, in collaboration with Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters, offers up to $30,000 in matching funds per business for technology upgrades, new machinery, and equipment. Approximately 130 businesses are expected to benefit, aiming to boost productivity and competitiveness across various sectors.
“Alberta’s government is committed to making sure small and medium-sized businesses have the resources they need to grow. The Alberta Manufacturing Productivity Grant is empowering local
business owners to invest in new technologies, machinery and equipment that will allow them to take their business to the next level” stated Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade, and Immigration, Joseph Schow.
Promoting 4R Practices for Farmers
The Government of Alberta announced a three-year memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Fertilizer Canada and Alberta Grains to promote 4R Nutrient Stewardship practices among farmers. The 4R framework aims to optimize fertilizer use, enhancing crop yields while minimizing environmental impacts. The MOU focuses on improving data collection and communication to increase the adoption of 4R practices.
“I’m so happy to announce the government’s MOU with Fertilizer Canada and Alberta Grains, set to increase awareness of 4R principles and practices. The bottom line is that this approach helps producers minimize nutrient losses and supports profitable and sustainable crop production in Alberta while protecting and conserving Alberta’s soil, water and air. Together we can continue to build and support an innovative and thriving agricultural sector” commented Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, RJ Sigurdson.