Federal Government Announces $5.8 Million Investment for Southern Alberta Business Support
In a significant move to bolster economic resilience, the federal government has committed $5.8 million to support businesses in southern Alberta through the Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI). This funding, announced on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, targets five specific projects aimed at enhancing export capabilities and strengthening trade partnerships.
Minister Olszewski Highlights Shift from Reliance to Resilience
Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan), emphasized the importance of this investment in a changing global trade environment. "In a more uncertain global trade environment, businesses and not-for-profit organizations across Alberta are working hard to adapt and compete," Olszewski stated. "Through the RTRI, our government is supporting their shift from reliance to resilience. That means strengthening domestic capacity, securing supply chains and opening new markets."
The minister further explained that this initiative is part of a broader strategy to build a more secure and competitive economy that benefits both Alberta and Canada as a whole.
Funding Breakdown and Project Details
The $5.8 million allocation includes:
- Approximately $4.5 million dedicated to three not-for-profit organizations. These funds will support business services and collaborative efforts to improve the export readiness of Alberta businesses, marking the first RTRI-approved projects in southern Alberta.
- Around $1.5 million awarded to Mount Royal University to establish the Alberta Logistics Centre of Excellence. This center will focus on developing and commercializing innovative transportation and logistics technologies.
Dr. Chad London, Provost and Vice-President, Academic of Mount Royal University, noted that Alberta businesses are actively navigating a rapidly evolving trade landscape, underscoring the timeliness of this support.
Political and Economic Context
Corey Hogan, MP for Calgary Confederation and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, praised the federal government's backing. "Funding announced today will help local entrepreneurs and the organizations that support them to advance innovative technologies and processes so they can succeed in the face of global trade uncertainty," Hogan said. "I'm proud to see the federal government standing behind their efforts."
This investment is particularly relevant given that the Prairies region contributes approximately 25 percent of Canada's GDP, highlighting the economic significance of supporting businesses in this area.
About the Regional Tariff Response Initiative
The RTRI is a $1-billion national program designed to assist Canadian businesses impacted by global tariff disruptions. By providing targeted funding, the initiative aims to help companies adapt to trade challenges and enhance their competitiveness on the international stage.
This latest funding announcement reflects the government's ongoing commitment to fostering economic growth and stability in southern Alberta, ensuring that local businesses are well-equipped to thrive amid global uncertainties.
