Business in Edmonton - January 2023

ZAYZOON USES INNOVATIVE FINTECH TO SOLVE A GROWING PROBLEM

MODERN PROBLEMS REQUIRE MODERN SOLUTIONS

by Nerissa McNaughton

Inflation is soaring, prompting the Bank of Canada to hike interest rates. This in turn drives up the cost of living at a time when people are still recovering physically and financially from COVID. Even before the pandemic’s upheaval, North Americans were increasingly living paycheck to paycheck. Now, according an Equifax® press release, Canadian consumer debit sits at over $2 trillion with the average Canadian burdened by $21,000 of debt – and that does not include a mortgage. In one year, debt loads grew 8.2 per cent, and Canadians report relying on credit cards to fill the gap between necessities and payday.

ZayZoon is determined to change this and save North Americans from high credit card interest, dangerous payday loans and NSF banking fees. The ZayZoon approach is unlike anything seen in the financial market before – and it’s keeping North Americans afloat when money is needed but payday is weeks away.

ZayZoon was co-founded by Darcy Tuer, CEO; Tate Hackert, President; and Jamie Ha, CFO. All three have diverse backgrounds with varied experience in finance, technology and entrepreneurship. Together, they knew they could make a big difference for struggling North Americans.

“Payroll has been the same for the better part of the century, but the needs of employees have changed,” says Tuer. “ZayZoon gives employees access to the money they have already earned. We are not a lending company. We provide liquidity on our clients’ earned wages.”

ZayZoon for employees allows early access to funds within minutes of signing up. There are no hidden fees or interest rates, just a flat $5 fee. ZayZoon for employers integrates seamlessly with all major payroll platforms and activates in less than an hour. It is free for employers and carries zero risk and zero liability (employees that choose to leverage the platform as a company perk subsidize the benefit).

“For employers, ZayZoon is an important recruitment tool. Around 38 per cent of employees say stress affects their

productivity. When financial stressed is eased, employers have better success with recruitment, retention and productivity,” says Tuer.

He continues, “I often get asked if our product causes harm. It does not. We have procedures in place to prevent people from winding up in predatory cycles where their paycheck is gone before it comes in. For example, clients can access only 50 per cent of earned wages before payday. We also offer indepth financial education and boosts such as gift cards to help employees get ahead.

“In a perfect world, everyone would be paid their wages daily for the work they have done. However, that is not how life works, and paying people daily is cumbersome from an administrative and cost standpoint. ZayZoon flattens out the flow and helps people living paycheck to paycheck – because food, bills, medication and emergencies do not line up with traditional pay cycles.”

An analysis of client spending/earned wage access reveals where ZayZoon payouts are going.

“The vast majority of our clients are using ZayZoon to cover essential purchases,” reveals Tuer. “In this time of economic upheaval and soaring inflation, the emergency fund is, for many, a thing of the past. People are sitting on high-interest payday loans and credit card debt. In America, a huge portion of the population lacks the financial means to maintain credit worthiness and they remain unbanked. The system is different in Canada, but we still have a large underbanked population. We give North Americans the ability to streamline access to earnings. It’s their money. Providing better access to earned wages is our social mission.”

Since ZayZoon is a new concept, access to capital and finding a lending institution that shares the company’s social vision was a challenge. That is, until ZayZoon connected with ATB.

The co-founders spoke to many banks but most took a traditional view of the business. Without tangible assets in the

company to act as surety, traditional banks shied away. ATB took a different approach.

“Our partnership with ATB was transformative!” describes Tuer. “Since we fund payroll in advance, you can imagine there is apprehension about putting that level of capital into the market for an emerging tech company with an unproven, untested idea. When we were introduced to ATB, they took a keen interest in not only our business, but also our positive social impact. They liked that we are a local Alberta company solving problems across North America, and took time to build a trusted relationship. ATB provided us with the capital pool we needed. Partnering with ATB gives us the time we need to focus on adding value for our customers. As we grow, ATB is there.”

ZayZoon took a calculated risk in introducing a fintech concept that would impact traditional payroll models. Was it a success?

“We have experienced double digit month-over-month growth for nearly two years and expect that to continue through 2023.

Our success is due to the collaboration among the co-founders, the ZayZoon team and ATB. Most of all, we owe our success to the clients for whom we provide a tangible solution. We will continue to be very curious about and focused on the problems our clients have and how technology can provide them with better financial outcomes.”

Learn more at zayzoon.com.

ATB is pleased to present a 2023 profile series on the businesses and people who are facing challenges head-on to build a strong Alberta.

ABOVE: DARCY TUER, CO-FOUNDER & CEO; JAMIE HA, CO-FOUNDER & CFO; AND TATE HACKERT, CO-FOUNDER & PRESIDENT.

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THIS ISSUE’S CONTRIBUTORS Nerissa McNaughton John Hardy PHOTOGRAPHY

Cover photo by Production World

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Net-Zero: Canada’s Vow

BY CATHERINE BROWNLEE, PRESIDENT OF ALBERTA ENTERPRISE GROUP (AEG), CALGARY AND EDMONTON CHAPTERS

e are on a highway to climate hell with our foot still on the accelerator,” said Antonio Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, in his opening remarks at the COP27 summit in Sharm ElSheikh, Egypt.

“W

I neither contest the urgency that was ignited in 2015 when the historic Paris Agreement was adopted at COP21, nor deny how this urgent matter must maintain the spotlight. It remains the demand for all leaders of economies, me included, to rise up, promote, deliver and defend the methodologies that are most properly suited to our cultures, our resources, our people ... our globe.

What I will contest is how the agendas of economic powerhouses are taking precedence, controlling the alignment of policies, ideas, investment programs – the very wake of which is creating adversity and devastation. As leaders of our own countries, territories and industries, we are the ones who know how best to serve and preserve our landscape. We are the ones who have grown up with the challenges, faced them and altered them. For me, a native Albertan, with much of my life being in the agriculture, environment and energy industries and as the current president of Alberta Enterprise Group, it is imperative that the voice of our organization be spoken loudly, proudly and concisely.

AEG represents a broad swath of the provincial economy with members ranging from Syncrude to the Oilers Entertainment Group. It also includes organizations from health care, agriculture, transportation, construction, energy, law and finance. AEG sees itself as “Alberta’s most influential business organization.”

Guilting and shaming is not effective and the costs of subscribing to blanket energy efficient programs (such as Bill C-235) detracts gravely from the end goal. To those of us leaders, corporations and enterprises already in alignment, this is shockingly offensive commentary.

After writing a two-page letter to Justin Trudeau, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith met face-to-face with Deputy PM Krista Freeland in Calgary, where Smith recommended the feds eliminate the federal carbon tax and temporarily pause the federal fuel tax in an effort to address how the majority of citizens are struggling to afford life’s basic needs. Freeland was unwilling to budge on this point and referred to Preston Manning’s initiation of the carbon tax: “It’s one of the most economically effective mechanisms for taking climate action,” she said, “… (he) saw that, and I think he is right, as one of the most economically effective mechanisms for taking climate action. I agree with that view and that’s why our government is moving forward.” (source: National Post)

Undaunted by Freeland, Premier Smith intends to initiate an Alberta Sovereignty Act as one of her first orders of business once legislature resumes, which would grant Alberta refusal of federal laws and court rulings under the premise they do not align or adhere to the best interests of “duly delegated spheres of influence under the Constitution.”

To this, Freeland politely responded, “We will look forward to working with the province of Alberta and we will look closely at any legislation the new premier tables and respond to it when we have something in writing to respond to.”

ALBERTA ENTERPRISE GROUP (AEG) PUTS ALBERTA BUSINESSES FIRST BY SHARING INFORMATION, ADVOCACY AND BUILDING BRIDGES TO NEW MARKETS. AEG MEMBERS ARE BUSINESS OWNERS, SENIOR EXECUTIVES, INVESTORS AND ENTREPRENEURS REPRESENTING FIRMS IN EVERY MAJOR ALBERTA INDUSTRY. AEG MEMBERS EMPLOY

OVER 100,000 ALBERTANS AND GENERATE BILLIONS IN ECONOMIC ACTIVITY EACH YEAR.

San Francisco – Faster

Air Canada’s Direct Flights to San Francisco Open Up a World of Opportunities

Air Canada’s daily non-stop flights from Edmonton to San Francisco are the perfect solution for business or leisure travel – and for a world of opportunities. As the post-COVID landscape continues to see vacations return and cross-border business networks flourish, these non-stop flights are all about making the right connections.

Edmonton entrepreneurs looking to support their tech-focused interests with research, investors and collaborations can fly in comfort to Silicon Valley, thanks to Air Canada’s non-stop flights.

“People, before, used to start an oilfield service company. Now, in Alberta, so many [entrepreneurs] are starting up a technology company,” Doug Schweitzer, Alberta Technology and Innovation Strategy, Minister of Jobs, Economy and Innovation, said in a press conference earlier this year.

According to Invest Alberta, the province broke records in 2020 for venture capital investment

and is in a prime position to scale up its North American footprint. In fact, Alberta holds the second most private equity firms in Canada. Working with and learning from the tech giants of Silicon Valley is an important part of this growth. Air Canada’s non-stop flights mean networking on this level does not unduly impact start-ups’ bottom lines – or schedules.

However, tech is not the only industry changing the Alberta’s business landscape. The artisanal and cottage wine industry continues to expand. Fruit wine and meads are emerging in growing numbers from Alberta. Again, locals can look to – and fly to –California for inspiration and business opportunities.

While the wine industry in Alberta is fairly recent in its inception and growth, the industry in California is world renowned with literal roots going back to 1769, when the first vineyards were planted. Alberta is unique in its offerings, thanks to our seasonal berries and climate, but the fundamentals of

winemaking have not changed for centuries. The ability to fly directly to the heart of American’s wine country and learn from the best, while also sampling an incredible variety of vintages, helps grow our province’s burgeoning brands.

Aside from collaborative business ventures of all kinds, San Francisco is a major tourist destination. Whether you are a business owner looking to relax and unwind or a family looking for an affordable vacation, Air Canada’s non-stop flights to San Francisco are the solution. Simply fly, land, unpack and start your adventure – your way. This is one city that truly has it all.

Like history and architecture? Major attractions include the historic Alcatraz, stunning views from Pier 39, the Golden Gate Bridge (one of the seven wonders of the modern world) and the worldfamous San Francisco Zoo & Gardens.

Those looking for a cultural experience are sure to find it in San Francisco; it remains one of America’s cities with the highest number of artists and arts organizations per capita. Cultural tourism is a $1 billion+ industry, with the Civic Center, War Memorial and Performing Arts Center leading the way. Here is also the home of SFMOMA (San Francisco Museum of Modern Art), America’s largest modern contemporary art museum.

Those looking for a quieter tourist experience have plenty of options. There are hiking trails for all skill levels and miles of beautiful beaches. In the Bay Area alone, there are 46 golf courses, including the historical Burlingame Country Club, which opened in 1893.

The food scene in San Francisco is legendary; one-ofa-kind favourites, like Joe’s Special, Hometown Fry and It’s It, originated here. About 40 per cent of tourists cite restaurants as a driving reason for their trip.

Experience all this – and more – in a place where the weather is warm, comfortable and inviting year-round. Your time in San Francisco will be memorable, whether you head out for work or pleasure and Air Canada makes getting there an exciting part of the journey.

The Air Canada’s San Francisco – Faster experience has you travelling in comfort and style. Flying non-stop instead of choosing a connection means arrival in just three hours. The CRJ-900 jet used for the non-stop flight features larger incline seats, extra legroom and adjustable headrests in Business Class. Those choosing Business Class also receive complimentary headphones, upgraded snacks and a delicious meal. Both Business Class passengers and Aeroplan Elite members also have lounge access in the San Francisco airport.

When more people choose non-stop flights, Air Canada responds with further route development. In addition to the airline’s own expansions of direct routes, Air Canada encourages others to add non-stop destinations and support the industry in continuing to open up the world.

Whether you are looking to grow a business, learn from an established industry or travel somewhere warm for leisure and pleasure, Air Canada’s San Francisco – Faster route is worth checking out. It’s the solution for the opportunities you have been seeking. Embark on your adventure today.

Renewable Energy Will Affect Your Business Sooner Than You Think

BY ELAN MACDONALD, VP EXTERNAL RELATIONS, U OF A

This past fall, world leaders and world-leading thinkers met in Egypt for COP27, the world’s biggest conference on climate change – and Alberta was there.

Our delegation to the conference included the provincial government; Mayor Amarjeet Sohi; Bill Flanagan, University of Alberta president; and industry.

Our participation on this global stage highlights ways in which our province will continue to lead the shift into a low net carbon economy. Alberta is already an energy powerhouse. We have decades of experience at the forefront of this sector and we have the expertise, infrastructure and partnerships to create resilient, real-world energy solutions. This lends a unique opportunity to Edmonton businesses to be on the forefront of the opportunities that come along with the change.

Though the energy transition is expected to take decades, the efforts to reduce the impact of hydrocarbon-based energy are already in full swing and will affect your business sooner than you think.

“Many changes that are part of the energy transition will be at a vast utility scale and will change how our energy companies operate, what they specialize in and how they do business.” M Anne Naeth, director of Future Energy Systems at the University of Alberta told me. “So, it’s important for businesses to understand what the future looks like, pay attention to new developments in their sector and be willing to invest in a change.”

I’m fortunate to have a front-row seat to much of the energy transition action at the University of Alberta, including the innovative work on smart grids being done by Dr. Ryan Li, a U of A professor of electrical and computer engineering, and his research team in the Elite Grid Research Lab.

As the renewables grow, we’ll need smart grids to handle the energy they produce. Fossil fuels deliver steady, stable power all the time. But energy from renewable sources shows up at different times and intensities and our current grid was not designed for that. Smart grids can also help address a challenge with electric vehicles. This work will help ensure that in the future when we all plug in our electric vehicles at the same time, we won’t accidentally collapse the power grid, which was never designed to handle so much demand.

Having people like Li here in Edmonton – among many others working on cutting-edge energy tech like electric vehicles, carbon capture and storage technology and cleaner fuels like hydrogen – ensures that Alberta continues to attract the people that will invest in and grow our energy transition and our economy.

ELAN MACDONALD IS PAST CHAIR OF THE EDMONTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND A FOUNDING DIRECTOR WITH EDMONTON GLOBAL. SHE ALSO SITS ON THE BOARDS OF COVENANT HEALTH, ATLAS BIOTECHNOLOGIES AND ALBERTA BALLET. SHE IS THE VICE-PRESIDENT (EXTERNAL RELATIONS) OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA. HER COLUMN APPEARS MONTHLY IN BUSINESS IN EDMONTON.

Heart Disease is the Leading Cause of Premature Death in Canadian Women

Globally, cardiovascular diseases affect one out of three women, yet women everywhere are under-studied, underdiagnosed, under-treated and under-aware when it comes to their cardiovascular health. Worse, considering that 80 per cent of a woman’s risk factors are within her control, heart disease is largely preventable.

Why is heart disease different in women? Gender plays a role – how much time you spend doing housework, whether you are a someone’s primary caregiver and whether you have emotional support at home – add up to extra stress that affects women disproportionately, contributing not just to mental health issues but also to cancer, heart disease and other illnesses.

Two-thirds of research into heart disease and stroke is based on men, according to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada. But researchers for the Canadian Women’s Heart Health Alliance are working to change that.

Cardiac researchers, like Dr. Colleen Norris of the University of Alberta, want women to know the risks and warning signs.

The “Hollywood heart attack” stereotype doesn’t fit women, said Norris, which means their symptoms are often missed. The causes of heart attack and the risk factors are very different between men and women. Some risks for women can arise at an unexpectedly early age, including during pregnancy.

Norris said it’s on women to know their own health risks, whether it’s eating too many processed foods high in salt or saturated fat, not getting enough sleep or exercise, or inherited factors. One of the biggest risks that often goes unrecognized is stress, which can be traced back to the gender imbalance.

Know the warning signs:

• An abrupt change in how you feel

• Chest pain or discomfort

• Sharp pain in the upper body

• Breaking out in a cold sweat

• Sudden or unusual tiredness

• Unexplained nausea

• Light-headedness or shortness of breath

Norris’ research has shown that 300 women a year present at an Alberta emergency department with cardiac symptoms, are discharged and go on to suffer a heart attack within 30 days. There are tools you can use to advocate for yourself in the healthcare system.

Make sure you’re heard:

• Make it clear your symptoms are not normal for you

• Ask your doctor to assess your risk by testing your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar

• Insist on an electrocardiogram and blood tests that can diagnose a heart attack

• Brainstorm questions beforehand and take notes. Ask for definitions of medical jargon that you don’t understand

• Know what actions will be taken next, and what you should do if you feel symptoms again

• Follow up on test results and to ensure that prescribed treatments are working

• Ask to see a doctor that specializes in heart problems

Exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, managing stress, minimizing substances like alcohol, tobacco and vapes, and getting regular checkups are among the ways that women can reduce their risks.

On Sunday, February 13, Edmontonians will wear red in recognition of Wear Red Canada, a country-wide initiative to promote women’s heart and vascular health. As part of the 2023 campaign, several virtual and onsite events and activities are being held throughout Edmonton. Canadians are encouraged to take pictures with friends, family and colleagues donning red clothing and share them on social media using the hashtags #WearRedCanada and #HerHeartMatters. Learn more at WearRedCanada.ca.

Here’s what you need to know

The Metro Edmonton Federation of Libraries is delighted to announce that Tololwa Mollel and Kate Boorman have been selected to serve as the 2023 Writers in Residence at the Edmonton, Fort Saskatchewan, Strathcona County and St. Albert public libraries. Mollel and Boorman will offer a wide range of supports and programs to writers of all ages and experience levels, through their time with the libraries.

The Metro Edmonton Federation is a consortium of four libraries: Edmonton Public Library (EPL), Fort Saskatchewan Public Library, St. Albert Public Library and Strathcona County Library. Each is a partner in this venture and will play host to a Writer in Residence over the coming 12 months.

“We are pleased to welcome best-selling author Kate Boorman as EPL’s Writer in Residence,” said Pilar Martinez, CEO of EPL.

Boorman will spend her year on the third floor of EPL’s Stanley A. Milner Library in the Writer in Residence office.

“The library is the cornerstone of a progressive community in so many ways and I am thrilled to be a part of EPL’s innovations for our city,” said Boorman. “I’m looking forward to connecting with creatives in all stages of their careers, offering one-on-one support and hosting initiatives that spark the imaginations of readers and writers alike.”

Her books have been published in four world territories, have appeared on a variety of best-of lists and have won multiple awards, including the Alberta Writers’ Guild Award for Children’s Fiction and a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection.

As the regional Writer in Residence, Tololwa Mollel will split his time between Strathcona County, Fort Saskatchewan and

St. Albert, with multiple-month stints in each community. The first stop in his residency will be Strathcona County Library, starting in early January.

Among his books are The Orphan Boy – winner of the Governor-General’s award; My Rows and Piles of Coins and Big Boy – both winners of the Writers Guild of Alberta award; and From Lands of the Night.

He has also published adult non-fiction work and short stories and his work has been translated into variety of Asian, European and African languages.

Mollel said, “My goal as Writer in Residence is to provide writing support suited to particular needs, helping individuals to develop not only their written work but their voices as writers as well. I also aim to share my passion for writing and creative work, through inclusive WIR programs for preschoolers, preteens, teens, adults and seniors.”

The Metro Federation Writer in Residence program is wrapping up a successful ninth year; 2022 writers Rayanne Haines and Norma Dunning have engaged with numerous aspiring and experienced writers in the metro Edmonton area through free one-on-one writing support, creative opportunities and dozens of writing programs. Haines and Dunning will pass the torch to the 2023 writers in the new year.

HOW TO LIFT UP A NEW VISION

BY NERISSA MCNAUGHTON

Liftboss Materials Handling does not just sell or rent equipment. They provide an experience unlike any other. It starts with the new state-of-the art showroom, which is the first of its kind and unlike any other equipment dealer’s showroom in the city. It continues with knowledgeable, friendly sales and service. It includes an onsite demo track where the products can be given a test run by potential buyers. No aspect has been overlooked in this experience, from the location of the facility to the ability to track and remotely monitor the health of each piece sold. In just 17 short years, the founders have taken Liftboss from concept to reality – and beyond.

Today, Andre Gagnon, president and Dale Beatty, VP, share the journey of the brand.

Liftboss was co-founded in 2006 by Andre Gagnon, Dale Beatty, John Gagnon and Marc Tougas.

“Basically, the four of us wanted to form our own company,” says Gagnon. “We saw holes in the level of service with existing equipment sales and rentals of this kind and thought we could band together to provide something better and something more unique. The focus was on providing the customer with what they needed, and with faster response times.”

Beatty agrees, noting, “Liftboss is a 100 per cent Alberta company built around the premise that a happy customer is a repeat customer. We provide quality products and meet customer needs.”

Those products include and feature JBC, an equipment brand that has been a staple in the construction world since 1945. Liftboss and JBC’s partnership goes back to 2017 when the manufacturer approached Liftboss with an offer for them to sell JCB compact equipment. By 2018, JBC awarded Liftboss with a Dealer of Excellence Award. In addition to equipment and rentals, Liftboss provides parts and service. As Beatty notes with a grin, “sell the best, service the rest!”

Gagnon reflects on the history of the brand.

“When we opened in 2006 as Liftboss Inc., we were operating out of a bay in Edmonton and as an authorized dealer for Tailift Worldwide, Hoist and AUSA’s rough terrain forklifts. It was a niche market of equipment brands. After growing from one to three bays very quickly, Liftboss purchased the building in 2007.”

The growth, however, did not slow down. Liftboss grew at a rate of 120 - 150 per cent in the first two years of operation as the brand quickly expanded to fill increasing customer demands. In 2008 Liftboss signed a five-year lease and opened a branch in Calgary. This was also the year Liftboss became a dealer for TCM forklifts and trucks.

“It was crazy! That was huge!” says Gagnon. “For a no-revenue startup, that was an incredible move. We made sure to scale properly and organically and not push past our limits.”

In 2010 the company took another leap forward when it acquired the rights to distribute AUSA rough terrain machines

ABOVE: ANDRE GAGNON, PRESIDENT AND DALE BEATTY, VP, LIFTBOSS. PHOTO SOURCE: PRODUCTION WORLD

LIFTBOSS TOOK A DARING CONCEPT INTO REALITY, AND POSITIVELY IMPACTED THE CANADIAN INDUSTRY

for all of Canada and became the authorized parts dealer for AUSA for all of North America. Then, the next milestone came in 2012 when Liftboss expanded their previous focus of only material handling and forklifts and became the full line dealer for Doosan’s construction equipment in Alberta. In the same year, to meet their customers’ growing demands, they also became a dealer for Genie and Blue Giant/Big Joe, manufactures of personal aerial lifts.

Gagnon continues, detailing what happened next in 2013, “Due to continued overall growth in the Calgary market, Liftboss purchased a building in the heart of the industrial sector in SE Calgary.”

Two years later, in 2015, TCM was bought out and dissolved. That was not the end of the road for the Liftboss and TCM journey. The road simply diverged onto a new path. TEU, the manufacturers of TCM equipment, approached Liftboss about becoming a TEU dealer for sales, parts and service. Liftboss said yes.

“It was 2017 when we partnered with JCB,” continues Gagnon. “They approached us with an opportunity and within a year Liftboss became the full line JCB construction dealer for the province of Alberta.”

The most recent milestone came in 2022 when Liftboss unveiled their new fully JCB branded dealership, a triumph that sits proudly on five acres of land on the west side of Edmonton and includes a full acre demo centre.

The showroom, and how it came about, demonstrates the tenacity and vision of Liftboss.

Gagnon explains, “JCB has 22 factories around the world and a clear vision on how they design their branded showrooms. We had an idea that differed from their concept. With open

communication from both sides, not only did they embrace what we wanted to do, they (after seeing it completed) made it the Canadian standard and they show it to clients all over the world.”

That concept was to take the look of the showroom and make it look more like a car dealership than a heavy equipment dealership. The final result is very exciting.

When you walk into Liftboss’ showroom, you are greeted with whichever piece of equipment is on display. Roller doors allow equipment of all sizes to be brought right into the front room. The offices are open concept on the main floor with salespeople easily accessible. The feeling is warm and friendly. A sweeping staircase leads to the upper level, where the administrative processes take place. Banks of glass windows let in plenty of natural light throughout and empower the team to see and interact with each other within. Nobody is “hidden away” in an office; you can clearly see and feel how the team works together.

The seamless flow of the reception and sales area takes customers to the parts warehouse. This is accessible from the front for those coming through the office, and the back for those coming through the yard. The warehouse is roomy and stocked and the soon-to-be fully staffed parts area has the same open and airy feel as the front.

A standout feature is the “control centre” where monitors shows every single piece of Liftboss equipment in operation – and this includes pings on the map in the UK when Liftboss equipment is fired up and ready to ship to Edmonton. Even when sold, Liftboss can accurately pinpoint the machines, recovering them in case of theft or alerting owners to maintenance issues that pop up.

ABOVE: INCLUDING A DEMO CENTRE IN THE NEW LOCATIONS PLAN WAS VERY IMPORTANT, ALLOWING CUSTOMERS TO VISIT THE BRANCH AND OPERATE A NUMBER OF PIECES OF EQUIPMENT ENSURING THEY END UP WITH THE RIGHT MACHINE FOR WHAT THEY ARE NEEDING.

Digital transformation begins here

Canada’s Digital Adoption Program allows businesses to access up to $15,000 of government grant money through the Boost Your Business Technology grant. The money can be used to engage digital advisors, such as MNP, and offset the costs of planning your small to mid-size business’s digital transformation journey.

Get started today. To learn more, visit MNPdigital.ca/CDAP

Soumya Ghosh, MBA, PMP | 780.293.6766 | soumya.ghosh@mnp.ca

By blending a new concept with futuristic technology and with a design meant to inspire warmth and communication, the new facility is truly one of a kind.

Beatty points out, however, that it takes more than a beautiful building to make a brand a success.

“When we opened the doors in 2006 there were just the four of us, the co-founders. Now we are approaching 60 staff,” he says. “Our team makes all the difference. Our staff is awesome and most have been with us long-term. Our core values (do what you say in a timely manner, open and honest, whatever it takes, service the customer above all else) also help us stand out among our competition. So do our agility, response times and decision making skills.”

Of course, it is not all smooth sailing. As with every business, COVID has affected supply chains, access to talent and more. Gagnon says they meet and exceed each challenge by having longstanding key relationships with suppliers and manufactures, excellent administrative processes, an outstanding corporate culture, stock on hand and clear communication with their buyers.

“This allows us to operate and hold our own amongst the biggest brands in our industry,” he notes.

For Beatty, the most rewarding thing about his days at Liftboss are, “The people I work with and seeing how I am able to help customers.” Gagnon seconds this, adding, “Watching our teams grow, learn and pivot through hard times as well as the great times. Also, seeing the culture that Liftboss has created and watching it develop.”

A big part of the corporate culture is centred on giving back. Liftboss supports a variety of non-profit and charitable interests including but not limited to, Festival of Trees, numerous kids’ sports programs, NAIT’s heavy equipment program and Grant MacEwan’s Distinguished Visiting Artist in Country Music initiative.

Both agree that, “The Edmonton business community is hardworking and has a global impact, yet the business community remains very humble. We enjoy that about this city.”

Gagnon says, “We say a very big thank you to our team. Without our team we cannot grow, change or expand. The team has embraced and is on board with our corporate culture.”

Beatty adds, “We also would like to thank ATB for providing us with support when we were a young company, JCB for believing in Liftboss and providing us with first-class equipment to market and BDC for the support to expand.

LIFTBOSS WAS VERY PROUD TO OPEN A NEWLY RENOVATED BRANCH IN THE HEART OF EDMONTON’S NW INDUSTRIAL SECTOR, CELEBRATING WITH AN OPEN HOUSE EARLIER THIS FALL

ABOVE:

We thank Peter Vaz from Worldwide Wholesale for believing in us from the start and mentoring us a young company.

What comes next?

“Expansion into Grand Prairie and rebranding our Calgary location with the new JCB Canadian standard,” they grin. “Both of those goals will take place in 2023. We will continue to grow properly, not wildly, and ‘uplift’ our customers, partners, staff and community.”

Learn more about Liftboss on their website. They are also active on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.

Who is JCB?

Liftboss’s partnership with JBC is an important part of the local company’s identity, but just who is JCB?

JCB is Britain’s most successful family-owned business. The story of this brand started with Joseph Cyril Bamford, aka Mr. JCB. In 1945 he used engineering instincts to develop construction equipment that was ahead of its time. Nearly 80 years on and JCB remains a family business, focused on staying ahead of the curve. A heavy emphasis remains on R&D to ensure JCB remains at the forefront of leading construction equipment and new innovations.

Lord Anthony Bamford, chairman since 1975, is Joseph’s son. In a move that was all but future-telling, Lord Bamford was born on the day his father set up JCB. Basically, the family grew in two important ways on that fateful day in 1945.

After studying abroad, Lord Bamford started on the JCB’s shop floor. He achieved a management position in 1964 and stepped in to lead JCB’s export drive into Europe in the late 60s. He has been largely credited for spearheading the brand’s global expansion.

JCB’s reach is truly global. You’ll find JCB’s machines on six continents across the globe and at 22 manufacturing plants in UK, Brazil, Germany, China, North America and India. The range includes more than 300 products, including access platforms, compact and mini excavators, rotating telehandlers, generators, rough terrain forklifts, teletruck forklifts and much more.

JCB only aligns itself with companies that share their goals, vision and commitment to community giving and sustainability. The fact that they approached Liftboss in Canada based on Liftboss’ own growth and reputation, and the fact that Liftboss became a JCB Dealer of Excellence within a year of the partnership, speaks to the success of our local, Alberta homegrown brand and the people that lead it.

TOP: LIFTBOSS IS PROUD TO SUPPORT LOCAL CHARITIES, SUCH AS SPONSORING A HOLE AT LAST YEARS AT GLENN ANDERSON’S DAY OF GOLF FOR THE CROSS CANCER INSTITUTE.

BOTTOM: LIFTBOSS EDMONTON’S OPEN HOUSE COULDN’T HAVE GONE ANY BETTER. GREAT FOOD AND DRINK, AN AMAZING TURNOUT, AND A DJ IN A SCISSOR LIFT ALL UNDER ONE ROOF!

Rising Above the Rhetoric Why School Choice is the Best Choice

One of the most profound choices a parent can make to set their child up for success is choosing the right school. In Alberta, independent schools strengthen and expand the choices available to parents in the public system. That’s why, since 1958, the Association of Independent Schools and Colleges in Alberta (AISCA) has championed independent schools as excellent choices available to parents across the province. If a student requires a school that has a particular academic focus, upholds certain religious values or provides extra care for a child with additional needs, AISCA’s member schools are an option.

Simply put, choice is a good thing. In fact, it is everything when one considers making some of the

most important decisions in life, including where your child is educated. Yet there are many myths that still exist about independent schools. A notable myth is that they are only for the wealthy few. However, various reports and statistics have refuted that argument. For example, 82 per cent of Alberta families who choose to send their child to an independent school have the same income as families at public schools. Furthermore, many independent school families make considerable financial sacrifices to cover any extra costs in order to access an education option where their children are thriving.

Another myth that still presents itself is that cutting funding to independent schools would “save” the government hundreds of millions of dollars – the facts do not bear this

out. Research has consistently indicated that independent schools have saved the taxpayer hundreds of millions of dollars, with one research paper putting the amount at $750 million dollars over a five-year period.

The math is relatively simple. All Albertan taxpayers contribute tax dollars to the cause of educating children in Alberta. Independent schools receive around $5,000 per child per year of that tax money; public and separate schools received around $13,000 in education grants, capital investments and transportation dollars to educate a child for a year. For independent schools to operate, parents pay tuition, run fundraisers and ask their supporting community for donations. Schools must also find efficiencies and be selective in what they offer and how they operate. In other words, it takes much sacrifice on the part of parents and the independent school community.

Financials aside, the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic have reflected positively on the ability of independent schools to be responsive to parent and student needs. In a poll conducted by Leger, for the Fraser Institute, parents of children in independent schools were less worried about their children falling behind in their studies and their school’s ability to make up for lost time. Eighty-four per cent (84%) of respondents reported that the pandemic had only a minimal or small impact compared to 64 per cent of parents with children in public schools.

School choice is a fine idea in theory, but does it work in practice? Evidence suggests that the benefits of improving educational diversity are clear. Alberta’s choice-based system

performs very well when compared to other provinces and countries. Achievement test and diploma exam scores at Alberta’s independent schools are above the provincial average and contribute to the overall system success. In neighbouring British Columbia, research has found that students from families with comparable incomes achieve higher test scores on average at independent schools than at their public counterparts.

Furthermore, independent schools display a high degree of accountability and transparency by teaching the Alberta curriculum, requiring that all teachers must be certified to teach by the Government of Alberta, complying with the Education Act and other legislation, and providing audits, three-year plans, annual educational results reports and OH&S inspections to the Ministry of Education. All independent schools are monitored through school site visits and through surveys to students, teachers and parents to ensure the needs of students are being met. The results of these surveys indicate that independent schools are safe and caring, successfully prepare students for life after school, prepare students for their roles as citizens and support parental involvement.

Myths regarding independent schools will continue to exist – but they simply aren’t supported by facts. According to the Fraser Institute, one in 16 Canadian students attend independent schools, which are often rural and have a religious or specialty emphasis. It’s time to deal with facts and open an honest dialogue on the valuable role that independent schools serve for thousands of parents and students in Alberta.

ALL INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS ARE MONITORED THROUGH SCHOOL SITE VISITS AND THROUGH SURVEYS TO STUDENTS, TEACHERS AND PARENTS TO ENSURE THE NEEDS OF STUDENTS ARE BEING MET. THE RESULTS OF THESE SURVEYS INDICATE THAT INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS ARE SAFE AND CARING, SUCCESSFULLY PREPARE STUDENTS FOR LIFE AFTER SCHOOL, PREPARE STUDENTS FOR THEIR ROLES AS CITIZENS AND SUPPORT PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT.

That’s Progressive Academy

From Daycare to Graduation www.proacad.ca

DIRECTORY

Columbus Academy

Grades 7 - 9, Grades 10 - 12 6770 129 Avenue, Edmonton, AB T5C 1V7

Phone: (780) 440-0708 Fax: (780) 440-0760 Abh_admin@boscohomes.ca

Coralwood Adventist Academy

Kindergarten to grade 12 12218-135 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5L 1X1 Phone: (780) 454-2173 Fax: (780) 455-6946 office@coralwood.org Website: www.coralwood.org

Covenant Canadian Reformed School

ECS, Grades 1 - 6, Grades 7 - 9, Grades 10 – 12 3030 Twp Rd 615A

County of Barrhead, AB T0G 1R2

Phone: (780) 674-4774 Fax: (780) 401-3295 ccrs.office@gmail.com Website: www.covenantschool.ca

Dante Alighieri Italian School

K, Grades 1 - 12 c/o Archbishop O’Leary High 14230 – 133 Ave Edmonton, AB T5L 4W4

Phone: (780) 474-1787 aristidem@shaw.ca

Devon Christian School

Preschool to Grade 9 205 Miquelon Avenue West Devon, AB T9G 0L8

Phone: (780) 987-4157 dcs@devonchristianschool.ca Website: www.devonchristianschool.ca

E2

Academy (DSEPS)

ECS, Grades 1 - 6, Grades 7 - 9, Grades 10 - 12 14907 45 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6H 5K8

Phone: (780)438-0824 info@e2academy.com Website: www.e2academy.com

Edmonton Academy Grade 4 to 12

Unit 2, 810 Saddleback Road, Edmonton, AB T6J 4W4 Phone: (780) 482-5449 e.richards@edmontonacademy.com Website: www.edmontonacademy.com

Edmonton Bible Heritage

Christian School

Grades 1 - 6, Grades 7 - 9 35-55517 Rge. Rd 240 N.W. Sturgeon County, AB T0A 0K5 Phone: (780) 454-3672 Fax: (780) 488-3672

Edmonton Islamic Academy

ECS, Grades 1 - 6, Grades 7 - 9, Grades 10 - 12 14525 - 127 Street, Edmonton, AB T6V 0B3 Phone: (780) 454-4573 Fax: (780) 454-3498 info@islamicacademy.ca Website: www.islamicacademy.ca

Edmonton Khalsa School

ECS, Grades 1 - 6, Grades 7 - 9 4504 Millwoods Road South Edmonton, AB T6L 6Y8

Phone: (780) 450-8753 Fax: (780) 461-6927 edkhalsa@telus.net Website: www.edmkhalsaschool.org

Elves Special Needs Society

Elves School program

ECS, Grades 1 - 6, Grades 7 - 9, Grades 10 - 12 10825 - 142 Street and 10419-159 Street Edmonton, AB T5N 3Y7

Phone: (780) 454-5310 ext. 232 Fax: (780) 454-5889 info@elves-society.com Website: www.elves-society.com

Gabriela Mistral Latin American School

Pre K, K, Grades 1 – 9, Adults 9359 - 67A Street Edmonton, AB T6B 1R7

Phone: (780) 914-6574 gabrielamistraledmonton@gmail.com

German Language School Edmonton

K-6, Grades 7 – 12, Grades 10 - 12 7608-154 Street Edmonton, AB T5R 1R7 Phone: (780) 435-7540 c/o Rio Terrace School Preschool

Harvest Baptist Academy

ECS, Grades 1 - 6, Grades 7 - 9, Grades 10 - 12 26404 Highway 16, West Spruce Grove, AB T7X 3H5 Phone: (780) 960-0235 Fax: (780) 960-9235 bdcoldwell@gmail.com

Headway School Society of Alberta

ECS, Grades 1 - 6, Grades 7 - 9, Grades 10 - 12 10435-76 Street NW, Edmonton, AB T6A 3B1 Phone: (780) 461-7683 Fax: (780) 485-0507 headman@telus.net Website: www.headwayschool.org

Hillcrest Christian School ECS, Grades 1 - 6, Grades 7 - 9, Grades 10 - 12 10306 - 102 Street Grande Prairie, AB T8V 2W3 Phone: (780) 539-9161 Fax: (780) 532-6932

Inner City High School Grades 10 - 12 11205 – 101 Street, Edmonton, AB T5G 2A4 Phone: (780) 424-9425 Fax: (780) 426-3386 info@innercity.ca Website: www.innercity.ca

Ivan Franko School of Ukrainian Studies

Grades 10 - 12 10611-110 Ave Edmonton, AB T5H 2W9 Phone: (780) 476-7529 lsukhy@hotmail.com Facebook: @IvanFrankoSchoolCommunity

Kneehill Christian School

Grades 1 - 6, Grades 7 - 9 P.O. Box 370 Linden, AB T0M 1J0

Phone: (403) 546-3781 Fax: (403) 546-3181

Lakeland Christian Academy

K, Grades 1 - 6, Grades 7 - 9, Grades 10 - 12 P.O. Box 8397 Cold Lake, AB T9M 1N2 Phone: (780) 639-2077 Fax: (780) 639-4151

Living Truth Christian School

ECS, Grades 1 - 6, Grades 7 - 9, Grades 10-12 Box 89, Mirror, AB T0B 3C0 Phone: (403) 788-2444 Fax: (403) 788-2445 ltcs@abchristianschools.ca Website: www.abchristianschools.ca

Living Waters Christian Academy

ECS, Grades 1 - 6, Grades 7 - 9, Grades 10 - 12 5 Grove Drive W. Spruce Grove, AB T7X 3X8 Phone: (780) 962-3331 Fax: (780) 962-3958 enrolment@lwca.ab.ca Website : lwca.ab.ca

MAC Islamic School Accredited Accredited Kindergarten to G9 11342 127th Street, Edmonton, AB T5M 0T8

Phone: (780) 453-2220 Fax: (780) 453-2233 office@macislamicschool.com Website: www.macislamicschool.com

A constellation of choice

Our innovative approach to education helps students across Alberta succeed

Parent Directed

100% parent directed program commonly known as “traditional” home education.

Shared Responsibility

“The best of both worlds” combining parent directed home education with teacher directed instruction for chosen subject areas.

Distance Programming

A distance learning alternative that provides fully teacher-directed programming online, onsite and print, no matter where you are in the world.

Our innovative approach to education helps Alberta students succeed through the elementary grades 1 through 6, junior high school grades 7 through 9, senior high school grades 10 through 12, and beyond. We recognize that the individual circumstances of learners vary greatly and, accordingly, ursa offers maximum flexibility to meet the needs of our students and their families. Through one of our three programming choices, ursa will help your shining star succeed.

Maskwachees Cultural School

Grades 10 - 12 P.O. Box 960 Maskwacis, AB T0C 1N0

Phone: (780) 585-3925 Fax: (780) 585-2080

Meadows Baptist Academy

ECS, Grades 1 - 6, Grades 7 - 8 2215 - 17 Street, Edmonton, AB T6T 1J1

Phone: (780) 440-1195 Fax: (780) 490-4410 bhunter@meadowlandsbaptist.com Website: www.meadowsbaptist.ca

Menorah Academy 10735 McQueen Rd NW Edmonton, AB T5N 3L1

Phone: (780) 451-1848 office@menorahacademy.org Website: menorahacademy.org

Morinville Christian School

Kindergarten to Grade 9, Home Education Grade 1 - 12 10515 100 Avenue, Morinville, AB T8R 1A2 Phone: (780) 939-2987 Fax: (780) 939-6646 mcfs@telus.net Website: www.tfhchurch.ca/care/receive/ morinville-christian-school

Nebula Academy Islamic School Program

Daycare - Out of School Care, Kindergarten to Grade 9 12023 81 Street, Edmonton, AB T5B 2S9 Phone: (780) 761-0250 info@nebulaacademy.ca Website: www.nebulaacademy.ca

Parkland Immanuel Christian School

ECS, Grades 1 - 6, Grades 7 - 9, Grades 10 - 12 21304 - 35 Avenue N.W. Edmonton, AB T6M 2P6 Phone: (780) 444-6443 Fax: (780) 444-6448 infor@parklandimmanuel.ca Website: www.parklandimmanuel.ca

Norwood Chinese School

Kindergarten to grade 12 11124-130 Street, Edmonton, AB T5M 0J2 Phone: (780) 908-6406 info@norwoodca.net C/O Westmount School

Peace Hills Adventist School

ECS, Grades 1 - 6, Grades 7 - 9 R.R. 3, Wetaskiwin, AB T9A 1X1 Phone: (780) 352-8555 peacehillsschool@gmail.com Website: www.peacehillsadventistschool.ca

Phoenix Academy

Grades 1 - 6, Grades 7 - 9, Grades 10 - 12 6770 129 Avenue Edmonton, AB T5C 1V7

Polish Sienkiewicz School in Edmonton

Grades Kindergarten to Grade 12 P.O.Box 78076 RPO Callingwood Edmonton, AB T5T 6A1

Phone: (780) 454-0205 and 780-439-5916 Fax: (780) 439-5916 polishschool@shaw.ca Website: www.pshs.ca Accredited Heritage Language School

Progressive Academy

Full-Time early childhood program for 3 – 5 year olds, Pre-school, Grades 1 - 12, Gifted and Talented Program, Special Interest Programs (Robotics, Outdoor Education, International Travel), Out of school care, Summer programs 13212 - 106 Avenue Edmonton, AB T5N 1A3

Phone: (780) 455-8344 info@progressiveacademy.ca Website: www.progressiveacademy.ca

Rimbey Christian School

Fingerprints, ECS, Grades 1 - 9 P.O. Box 90 Rimbey, AB T0C 2J0

Phone: (403) 843-4790 Fax: (403) 843-3904 office@rimbeychristianschool.com Website: www.rimbeychristianschool.com

Russian Educational Centre K to Grade 12 9566 – 101 Ave Edmonton, AB T6K 3H6 Phone: (780) 966-7157 oprokhorova@hotmail.com

Slave Lake Koinonia Christian

K, Grades 1 - 6, Grades 7 - 9, Grades 10 - 12 328 2nd St. NE Slave Lake, AB T0G 2A0

Phone: (780) 849-5400 Fax: (888)881-0428 admin@slkcs.com

Solomon College

Grades 10 - 12 Suite 228, 10621 - 100 Avenue Edmonton, AB T5J 0B3 Phone: (780) 431-1515 Fax: (780) 431-1644 pingping@solomoncollege.ca Website: www.solomoncollege.ca

South Side Christian School Kindergarten to grade 9 P.O. Box 219, Red Deer, AB T4N 5E8 Phone: (403) 866-2266 admin@southsidechristianschool.ca Website: www.southsidechristianschool.ca

SML Christian Academy ECS, Grades 1 - 6, Grades 7 - 9 5014 - 53 Avenue Stony Plain, AB T7Z 1R8 Phone: (780) 963-2715 Fax: (780) 963-7324 info@smlacademy.ca Website: www.smlacademy.ca

SCcyber E-Learning Community Grades 7 to 12 200, B102 – 5212 48 St. Red Deer, AB T4N 7C3 Phone: (403) 872-0487 administration@sccyber.net Website: www.sccyber.net

Tempo School ECS, (Lower School) Grades 1 - 4, (Middle School) Grades 5 - 8 and (Upper School) Grades 9 - 12 5603 - 148 Street, Edmonton, AB T6H 4T7 Phone: (780) 434-1190 Fax: (780) 430-6209 admin@temposchool.org

The Chinese Cultural Promotion Society

Grades 7 - 9, Grades 10 - 12 P.O.Box 32, Main Post Office Edmonton, AB T5G 2G9 Phone: (780) 485-9718 Email: ccps.clc@gmail.com

Thomas More Academy Grades 7 - 9, Grades 10 - 12 6770 129 Avenue, Edmonton, AB T5C 1V7

Phone: (780) 430-6969 Fax: (780) 431-9627 Email: Abh_admin@boscohomes.ca

Waldorf Independent School of Edmonton

ECS, Grades 1 - 5 7114 98 St, Edmonton, AB T6E 3M1 Email: info@thewise.ca Website: www.thewise.ca

ALTERNATIVE SCHOOLING

The Banff Hockey Academy Grades 7 – 12 Box 2242, Banff, Alberta T1L 1B9 Phone: 1-888-423-6369 Fax: (403) 760-0868 registrar@banffhockey.ab.ca www.banffhockey.ab.ca

College bound hockey athletes

2023 Board of Directors

Board Executive

Chair: Dennis R. Schmidt

Principal, ALTURA Legal Advisory

Vice-Chair: Haydar Al Dahhan President and CEO, Design Works Engineering

Secretary-Treasurer: Jason Pincock CEO, DynaLIFE Medical Labs

Past Chair: Elan MacDonald Vice President (External Relations), University of Alberta

Jeffrey Sundquist

President & CEO, Edmonton Chamber and World Trade Centre Edmonton

Board Directors

Nicole Bird Owner, Rsvp Design Inc.

Aziz Bootwala

Managing Principal, Edmonton, Vice President, Business Development, Kasian Architecture Interior Design and Planning Ltd.

Nathan Carter Vice President, Projects and Construction, ATCO Energy Solutions

Jonathan Gallo

Managing Partner, Gallo LLP Chartered Professional Accountants

Sandy Jacobson

Vice President, Richardson Executive Search

Sam Kemble

Chief Operating Officer, Workforce Delivery Inc.

Annemarie Petrov President and CEO, Francis Winspear Centre for Music

Amir Shami President and CEO, Rotaflow

Celia Wanderley

Chief Customer Officer and Head of AltaML Invent, AltaML

Edmonton Chamber Executive Cadence Bergman Director, Policy

Alexandra Hryciw Director, Strategy and External Affairs

Bobbi Elliott

Executive Director, Finance and Operations

Amin Samji Director, Member Services

Contact Edmonton Chamber of Commerce #600 World Trade Centre 9990 Jasper Ave, Edmonton, AB T5J 1P7 T: 780.426.4620 | F: 780.424.7946 edmontonchamber.com

Share your thoughts on business issues with the Edmonton Chamber at policy@edmontonchamber.com

The 2023 Northern Lights Award of Distinction: Teresa Spinelli

On behalf of the Board of Directors, the Chamber team, and our 1,700-plus member companies who collectively employ over 100,000 people in the Edmonton region, I am delighted to announce Teresa Spinelli, President of Italian Centre Shop, as the recipient of the 2023 Northern Lights Award of Distinction.

Teresa Spinelli’s story is one that touches on loss, perseverance and selfdetermination, leaving you feeling empowered.

As a young girl, Teresa had dreams of becoming a social worker or a counselor so that she could help others, a trait attributable to her mother and father Rina & Frank Spinelli. “My father was the heart of the community – the fact that he’d donate hundreds of thousands of dollars to this or to that wasn’t widely known, ever. What was widely known was how he’d help a guy in the community with his first mortgage payment because he was short, or how he would say ‘I heard your son is sick, here, take him this sandwich’” said Teresa.

“The more you give, the more you get” Frank used to say. Though suddenly inheriting the family business wasn’t a part of her original plan, she selflessly knew she had a duty to fulfil, not only in running the family business, but in giving back. 20 years later, the Italian Centre Shop now has 5 stores across two metropolitan cities, more than 600 employees and over 101 million dollars in sales.

Spinelli has a long running list of honors and awards ranging from the Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012, and most recently The Order of the Star of Italy, Italy’s version of the Order of Canada, for her work in promoting Italian foodstuffs and gastronomy in Canada. When asked what she thought her mother and father would be most proud of today, she said it wouldn’t be the growth of the business, instead the integrity and consistency on the development of the community that her and her team so passionately commits to every single day. That passion is exactly what led her to being the 2023 Northern Lights Award of Distinction recipient. This award honors individuals and organizations that have made a positive and lasting impact on our community. As a community leader, philanthropist, family matriarch and President of Italian Centre Shop, we recognize the exceptional leadership required to play such a pivotal role in the development of the community.

We are honored to present this award to the much deserving Teresa Spinelli for not only her story, but her undying commitment to the betterment of Little Italy and the impact she has within many different communities across Western Canada.

Jeffrey Sundquist, President & CEO

Municipal Budget Statement

Through written submissions and verbal presentations, the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce, NAIOP Edmonton, BOMA Edmonton and Urban Development Institute –Edmonton Metro, have individually expressed ideas for Edmonton’s City Council to consider with respect to the proposed 4-year budget. The following joint statement represents a summary of their collective ideas and calls to action as Edmonton City Council begins budget deliberations. “This is an incredibly important time in our city’s future – we need to proceed with the utmost care and thoughtfulness,” said Jeffrey Sundquist, President and CEO of the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce. “From what we have heard from both business and community leaders alike, the current proposed budget raises concerns in regards to both fiscal restraint and transformative projects. Many partners from across the city building spectrum are clear in their desire to see a more strategic budget.”

Kalen Anderson, Executive Director of the Urban Development Institute – Edmonton Metro, highlighted how the last four-year budget (2019-2022) was approved in a very different context. “Affordability is being eroded based on a wide variety of factors and businesses and households are struggling to keep up. The budget Edmonton approved this month needs to reflect that we are living in an even more volatile marketplace – decisions made today can severely impact Edmontonians, small business owners, and investors who are looking to make Edmonton their home in the future.”

Speaking to why this matters, Lisa Baroldi, President and CEO, BOMA Edmonton notes that “small and medium-sized companies are the backbone of our economy. It is imperative that we can make investments that bolster and grow these businesses so that they can continue to employ Edmontonians and contribute to the economic and social fabric of our communities.”

One way forward is to prioritize existing spending, said Anand Pye, Executive Director of NAIOP Edmonton. “Edmontonians and businesses have been clear that they don’t want significant tax increases. We’ve been working to identify ways to decrease spending so that we can keep up with new priorities.” Pye also notes that capital expenditures should consider market comparables for construction in the private sector and costing data from other public jurisdictions. “Some practical ideas include getting out of some lines of business and getting a better deal for large city capital projects.”

The following are key recommendations from Edmonton’s member-funded business organizations:

- Refine priorities - Allow for more flexibility - Focus on what cities do best - Keep taxes low

Refresh Botanicals

Member Profile

What’s your story?

Refresh Botanicals™ is organically sourced, but we take it to the next level where our research in powerful bioactives allows us to zero in and take a look at specific botanical molecules that address very specific skincare concerns so that efficacy is never compromised. Refresh Botanicals formulations are intentionally made and offer a global perspective for skin care concerns. We know the value of tried-and-true skincare rituals across the world and combine them with scientifically backed research. We also know that alleviating everyday skincare concerns, regardless of what stage of life you are in, requires scientific evidence through research and the absence of parabens, gluten, petroleum by-products, animal by-products, artificial oils, alcohol and fragrances. Our natural, organic skincare allows you to refresh your routine with unequivocal vitamin and antioxidant support to relieve, restore and revitalize your skin.

What do you enjoy most about being a member of the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce?

We LOVE the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce for many reasons and have really enjoyed getting to know the team there as well. Needless to say, the people are amazing! We are leveraging this local resource and it has been very beneficial. From networking, live events, workshops…. We even started exploring initial trade opportunities all from the comfort of our city. We feel the Chamber gives us relevant, professional, extended exposure that we would have not been able to gain easily, it’s a great fit.

What is one thing people are surprised to learn about your business?

How we have received so much support from the Edmonton business community and the valuable resources in our city. No longer do we need to look outside of the Edmonton area for high-quality manufacturing, consultants, strategic market assistance and raw material…… So much is located right here within our city.

Edmonton was the ideal spot to Head Quarter Swift Innovations/Refresh Botanicals as it is so diverse, and it is one of the best Business decisions we have made.

Who is your ideal client?

Our ideal client is looking to add exciting product lines to their retail shelves or professionally manufacture their products. There is so much to learn in this industry, let our team help guide you to success. From formulations, standard operating procedures, manufacturing, packaging, labeling and more…. We are your one-stop shop for cosmetics and skincare products.

What has been your biggest challenge in business, and how did you overcome it?

Growing past the local markets. It was unique for our Edmonton-based organization to produce world-class products that are poised for such rapid growth, across Canada and internationally. Refresh Botanicals is almost available in every Province across Canada now! We were able to show many relevant contacts and players in our industry that Edmonton-based companies can compete on the big stage with cities like Vancouver, Montreal and Toronto. We have also been able to penetrate the international skincare market and have launched in India with more to come.

What is your favorite thing to do in Edmonton? There is so much we love about the city, however, the River Valley has stolen our hearts. When we need to take a break (mostly in the summer to clarify) many times we head there for some team building and to enjoy the beautiful scenery as well. Again, something world-class right here in Edmonton that we have added to our corporate life Recently we read a stat that our River Valley is 22 times larger than New York’s Central Park with over 150 km of foot, bike and cross-country trails that Edmontonian’s can access. To us, that is indeed world-class.

If you could make one substantial improvement to Edmonton’s business environment, what would it be? Being such an innovative city, we are finding like-minded local companies all the time. Many of them have been in business for years and we are just hearing about them now. With all of these local entrepreneurs and established organizations in our city, it would be great to see an online directory/organization where we can support each other as we all grow together. Why not support local and grow our business community together?

Dr. Jagvir Singh, CEO and President www.refreshbotanicals.com

Founders Jagvir Singh, Geeta Yadav and Sippy Kalra

DOING BUSINESS IN RISK-PRONE TIMES

SOME COMPANIES

BY JOHN HARDY

Risk management has always been at the core of successful organizations. It is vital. The new ways of doing business are creating new “musts” of risk management. While cyber security risks tend to get the most risk management attention, many other types of risks also menace today’s businesses.

Risk management encompasses the identification, analysis and response to risk factors that form part of the life of a business. Effective risk management means attempting to control, as much as possible, future outcomes by acting proactively rather than reactively.

Effective risk management can reduce both the possibility of a risk occurring and its potential impact. Consultants echo caution while business owners, leaders, senior management and investors now consider dealing with risks as routine but vital aspects of their role and the success of their businesses.

MISMANAGE RISKS

The past is prologue and it’s undisputable. Today’s business plans emphasize risk management techniques and assessment capabilities.

“Risk management is absolutely an essential basic when it comes to the operation of a business,” says the plugged-in Alice Lin, an instructor at Edmonton’s Norquest College faculty of business, environment and technology. “It is a critical part of business. Risk management utilizes a combination of predictive analytic techniques and inexpensive data-gathering technology, allowing businesses to evaluate alternatives more effectively.”

She points out that the world is changing views and perspectives about risk and the risk management environment is being transformed. Stories and case studies show that companies often mismanage risks, triggering various business problems from scandals, financial

repercussions, safety breaches, potential strategy issues, management distrust and more.

Experts warn that risks are sometimes mismanaged when companies don’t understand the purpose or definition behind risk management. “Or when companies rely too much on historical data, making their parameters for risk too narrow, disregarding risks that are obvious, when they don’t look closely enough for hidden risks, when they don’t communicate well or react effectively to issues in real-time.”

She adds that, in the past five to 10 years, the need for effective risk management has become widely accepted. “Traditionally, people viewed risk management as single events (silos). The ERM (enterprise risk management) concept eventually became more widely accepted and now businesses are treating risk management as a way to identify potential future opportunity vis-a-vis risks.

“Enterprise risk management is the process of studying all identified potential risk events together to better understand and subsequently restructure some strategic objectives, to turn risks into future opportunities and improve overall competitiveness.”

A sure sign of wide acceptance is risk management now being included in most post-secondary course curriculums as more and more organizations embrace risk management as vital components of their operation. “Risk management is no longer just a cost centre, as it was in the past,” she adds.

Business leaders and consultants are unanimous. As technology continues to transform and re-define modern life, it is also a critical new dimension of doing business. Cyber risks have become almost stereotypical and synonymous with risk management, because, as with all business and technology trends, there is a dark side.

The digital transformation is also transforming the dynamics of risk management. In today’s business – from mobile phones, cloud networks and thumb drives – data is everywhere! Some say data is a business’ most important asset and make the comparison that digital data is the new water; both are necessary for survival!

“Many organizations treat cyber security in a reactive and ad-hoc manner,” warns Drew Buhr, cyber security

“ORGANIZATIONS WAIT UNTIL A BREACH HAPPENS, EITHER TO THEM OR SOMEONE ELSE, AND THEN THEY SCRAMBLE TO APPLY A QUICK FIX. THE BETTER APPROACH IS TO PROACTIVELY MANAGE THE RISK BY IDENTIFYING THE BLIND SPOTS AND BUILDING A PLAN ON HOW TO MANAGE THE RISKS UPFRONT,” SAYS BUHR.

assessments lead at MNP in Edmonton. “They wait until a breach happens, either to them or someone else, and then they scramble to apply a quick fix. The better approach is to proactively manage the risk by identifying the blind spots and building a plan on how to manage the risks upfront.”

ABOVE: DREW BUHR, CYBER SECURITY ASSESSMENTS LEAD AT MNP IN EDMONTON.

THERE’S NO DOUBT ABOUT IT. THE PAST TWO-PLUS YEARS OF BUSINESS DISRUPTIONS

ONLY

NEED FOR EFFECTIVE RISK MANAGEMENT. FOR BUSINESS, WITH TRENDS LIKE WORK-FROM-HOME ROUTINES AND MORE OPEN REMOTE ACCESS TO A COMPANY’S SYSTEMS AND DATA THAN EVER BEFORE, IT HAS BEEN TWO-PLUS YEARS OF UNEXPECTED RISKS, UNWANTED SURPRISES AND SOME NASTY CONSEQUENCES.

He points out that many organizations have a technical department, usually with legacy systems that are difficult to replace. Attackers target these systems, exploit the unpatched vulnerabilities and gain unauthorized access. Then they can escalate their attack and move throughout the rest of the network, compromising additional systems.

“There are numerous other areas where vulnerabilities lurk, including servers, network devices, computers and mobile devices that have not been protected, missing security patches not securely configuring the systems against attack and issues with account and access management.”

Buhr also cautions about a common risk management nightmare scenario for businesses: when hackers install software called ransomware on the company’s computers. When a computer gets infected, a notification pops-up, letting the user know their data has been encrypted and they no longer have access… until they pay a fee.

From experience, he explains that hackers often target organizations simply because they’re connected to the internet. “Once they find a vulnerable system, or person on the inside lets them in, they figure out where they are and see how they can make money. The threats typically come from the outside and then they try to pose as insiders. This is because, even though the external systems can be well protected, the internal systems are usually not. Insiders can be threats as well, so it’s important to having layering of security throughout.”

When those types of warning signs happen, it’s often too late. Even if the organization has a backup of the data, hackers target the backup systems to delete the data or threaten to publish the company’s sensitive data online.

“Many organizations do not have good monitoring systems,” he says. “While backups are important, organizations should

focus on identifying the weaknesses in their IT systems before these sorts of things occur. An effective cyber security program that leverages risk management requires a defensivein-depth strategy with layered security controls to identify, protect, detect, respond and recover from security events. The program requires continuous diligence and should be based on structured and tailored plans to manage risk.

“There is no one-size-fits-all approach,” Buhr says. “Organizations should conduct cyber security risk and maturity assessments to identify the risks, so they can effectively thread them through different risk management strategies.”

Whether it’s cyber or the gamut of business risks, the news is not all bad. Risk management experts and consultants agree that companies must establish well-defined risk management from the top levels of the organization to ensure clarity about what to do and how to react when challenges arise.

Lin emphasizes some key benefits of effective and good ERM, “Potentially reducing the hazard risk’s impact and costs, the ability to take advantage of good risks – because not all risks are bad – the ability to seek optimal profitability, practice holistic risk management and ensure compliance with regulatory and legal requirements.”

There’s no doubt about it. The past two-plus years of business disruptions have only heightened the need for effective risk management. For business, with trends like work-from-home routines and more open remote access to a company’s systems and data than ever before, it has been two-plus years of unexpected risks, unwanted surprises and some nasty consequences.

Many organizations were caught flat-footed by a risk they never planned for: the fragilities of doing business in riskprone times.

HAVE

HEIGHTENED THE

THRIVING WITH A NICHE SERVICE

By Nerissa McNaughton with

Did you know that Volvo’s first plant outside of Sweden was opened in Canada? Or that the final screw on Canada’s first Volvo was tightened with a golden screwdriver wielded by Sweden’s Prince Bertil? Another first for the brand involves Sandy Lane Auto. It

was among the first repair shop in Canada to specialize in Volvo. From Brett Morgan’s grandfather opening the doors in 1968 to the evolution of the shop today – where all European and specialty vehicles are serviced – Sandy Lane Auto has been on quite a ride.

photos by Rebecca Lippiatt

Sandy Lane Auto, the European Vehicle Repair Auto Shop, Celebrates 55 Years

Sandy Lane Auto • Celebrating 55 years

And it’s just getting started.

Business in Edmonton was pleased to bring you the story of Sandy Lane Auto on it’s 50th anniversary. Now, five year later, we catch up with the brand again to see what has changed.

One of the biggest changes is ownership. Joe Glumpak is the owner of Sandy Lane Auto South while Tony Glumpak owns and operates Sandy Lane Auto West.

“We remain a family-owned business,” says Joe. “Our father joined Sandy Lane in 1975 and became a minority partner in the 80s. Brett was the third generation of Morgans in the business and Tony and I are the second generation of Glumpaks.”

While ownership has changed over the years, both families have members on the team in various roles.

“One of the major changes is learning how to flex with the times, meet customer needs and stay afloat along with everyone else,” smiles Tony, and Joe agrees. COVID changed the business landscape, especially for businesses in which face-to-face client interaction was key. However, Tony adds, “We were more fortunate than most on the supply chain side of things. We have a huge market of customers in mainly European vehicles; most of our parts come from Europe. The main challenge was in providing the highest level of customer service with the most minimal amount of in-person contact.”

That did not slow down Sandy Lane Auto. The team adapted, overcame and continued to provide the automotive repair, vehicle inspections, maintenance and tires for which they have been known for more than 50 years.

Vehicles and customer preferences have changed during that time. Joe notes, “In addition to repairs, maintenance and tires, some people want more performance from their vehicles. We also do custom tuning for fuel economy.”

Sandy Lane Auto • Celebrating 55 years

Customer education is a priority too. Tony and Joe explain, “We take a three-pronged approach of safety, reliability and maintenance. When we educate our customers, we say, ‘this is going keep you safe and keep you on the road. This is what will give longevity to this vehicle.’ Doing scheduled maintenance will cost you less over the long run and stands between you and those emergency $4,000 repair bills. If you only change the oil five times in a Land Rover and you have over 100,000 kilometres on it, you are going to need a new engine!”

Facebook, Yelp and Google reviews prove that customers like this educational approach. Joe points out that other reasons for customer satisfaction include Sandy Lane Auto living its core values daily: teamwork, integrity, relationships, communication and empowerment.

“We also have a key mentality of continuous learning. We empower our team to keep learning and engaging in new technology. We are very fortunate to have wonderful suppliers that provide avenues for education.”

Giving back to the community is a very important aspect for both shops. On the south side, Joe and his team support Youth Empowerment and Support Services (YESS), The Mustard Seed and Lurana Shelter. On the north side, Tony’s team supports the Special Olympics, local shelters and programs that promote family literacy.

The brothers thank their teams, customers, vendors, founders and manufacturers for 55 wonderful years, and both have a special thank you for their father, John.

“I am where I am today and know what I know because of him,” says Joe.

Tony agrees, adding, “I’m in the same position. He told me to stay out of this industry because it is such an incredible amount of work.” Tony laughs, “I wasn’t very good at listening when I was younger. Even so, he was instrumental in getting me to a certain level in this career. I came to realize that it is a lot of work, but I love it. I also want to thank the Morgan family. They started the business three generations ago and were careful stewards of it. They took the brand from a gas station/convenience store to what it is today. It is really nice to see something of this kind that has lasted this long and spanned so many generations.”

Sandy Lane Auto

A FULL CIRCLE OF SERVICE

By Nerissa McNaughton

Over the course of 50 years, Action Electrical Ltd. has built a brand unlike any other. As a full service provider, one call gives clients access to a full circle of care: projects, service, TEGG and energy.

It all started with Don Bunting, who was mechanically minded from a young age. He was one of those youth that took things apart to see what made them tick. His curiosity was spurred on when he got a job with his friend’s father, an electrical contractor. After that, there was no turning back. The ability to take things apart or build them from scratch and make them “go” fueled his desire to become a journeyman and master electrician. After completing studies and apprenticeships through SAIT and NAIT, and after nine years in the trade, he opened Action Electrical in 1973.

Like most entrepreneurs, Don started his business from home. The garage was the warehouse and a room in the home was an office. It didn’t take long, however, for that to change. Just two years later the growing business moved into a rented space. By 1977 they were on the move again, this time to their own building due to the need of larger space for continued rapid growth.

Today the thriving brand is a family business with Don’s son, Blake, overseeing the divisions as general manager. Along the path of half a century of service are many milestones. Action Electrical’s stamp is on numerous schools, churches, office buildings and warehouses across Canada.

Although Action Electrical had branch offices in Mississauga and Kelowna and completed major projects in both regions, the Buntings’ main focus is in Alberta. The team also appreciates the business model that provides security despite times of economic uncertainly. Low turnover and

a strong corporate culture empower each team member and drive long-term loyalty.

“With our four different divisions, we have the capability to move people around and to keep them employed year-round,” explains Blake.

Those different divisions are what drive Action’s full circle mandate. Blake explains how this works: “At the time the building we are constructing is energized, our TEGG technicians come in and complete a quality control inspection on all of the electrical distribution. We use our infrared camera and ultrasonic instrument to go through all the electrical distribution in the building. At that point, we determine if there are any electrical anomalies. Then, Action repairs deficiencies and

Photo by Production World

creates a report. We meet with the owner and general contractor and show them everything we determined through our general inspection. We hand off the next year’s warranty to our service manager and he becomes the point of contact for warranty repairs. It’s a team approach. Our goal is to maintain that building and retain that client for years to come.”

Don adds, “Speed, accuracy, precision, response. At Action, we exhibit these qualities in our work ethic, company integrity and quality workmanship. We are a diversified electrical company accepting jobs as a challenge, completing them on schedule and within budget. Action’s leadership team is committed to embracing the principles of total quality to ensure successful completion of your projects. Our goal at Action is, above all, customer satisfaction and we are committed to doing whatever it takes to achieve that goal.”

The years have seen many successes, but there have also been many challenges. For the Buntings, some of those have been intensely personal. Don’s son and Blake’s brother, Brooks, passed as the victim of a drunk driver. Some challenges have been bittersweet. Don’s wife, Grace, was an integral part of the company from the start. Upon her retirement in 2012, the staff renamed the boardroom Graceland in her honour. There have also been some intense tariff wars, both interprovincially and cross-border, that impacted the electrical industry; and, of course, it is impossible to ignore the impacts of COVID that touched every business across the province with effects ranging from staffing to material shortages, and from shipping to whole building shutdowns.

Don takes a pragmatic, realistic view of it all. “You have breaks and you have challenges. It all comes

Action’s service technicians performing exterior lighting maintenance at Shell Canada.

13.7kW residential solar system.

down to hard work, relationships and being able to hire and retain good people. People are the heart and soul of the company, so as long as we are taking care of our team, we are rising above every challenge.”

From the business in a garage to a family business working on Edmonton’s most iconic structures, there is nowhere to go but up. Action Electrical’s full circle service provides a unique industry solution along with reliable, local work for the team. Cross department training increases retention and empowers the staff with opportunities. A growing list of innovative projects keeps Action Electrical moving forward. Full circle means Action Electrical will take action on each project from conception to completion – and beyond. It also means each team member is taken care of with an outstanding corporate culture and with opportunities for training and advancement. It means a future where Action Electrical will continue to have a positive impact on the city, on its team, in the community – and beyond.

Learn more at www.actionelectrical.net.

sons’ career choices, including Brad’s success as a mortgage broker and caterer and Damon’s success as a Realtor. For Grace and Don, the family business is there, but it is more important to see their children follow their hearts.

For Blake, that meant working with his father –although he jokes it kind of happened by accident. Don asked seven-year-old Blake to come to work with him for an afternoon and Blake found himself sorting fasteners for hours on end. The work was tedious, but it lit a spark. He continued to work at Action Electrical during summer holidays and then went full-time in 1996. Blake moved away to attend college in Missouri on a football scholarship and even proposed to his wife, Jill, on the field. He was later drafted by the Edmonton Elks but the desire to return to Action Electrical was strong, and he could not ignore that spark. He left the sport for the trade and re-joined the business.

WOODS TRANSIT CENTRE

BUILDING CONNECTIONS

As Alberta’s Capital Region evolves, we’re here to support growth and development in healthcare, sporting facilities and how citizens move throughout the region. PCL supports our community by delivering an exceptional construction experience.

MILL

Edmonton, AB