Federal government invests $9 million into southern Alberta projects

Southern Alberta's economy is receiving a significant boost as the Canadian federal government injects $9 million into five local projects aimed at bolstering businesses navigating global economic headwinds.

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With everything changing, the political landscape changing almost daily, we’re talking about CUSMA even, on top of the tariffs, people are putting projects on hold, manufacturers aren’t spending money.

Lethbridge Iron Works, a company with a history dating back to 1898, is among the recipients, securing $1 million through PrairiesCan. This funding will enable the purchase of a new, state-of-the-art moulding machine, which company officials say will increase their production capacity by 17 percent.

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This machine is the most advanced moulding machine in our industry and it will, overall, increase our capacity by 17 per cent.

Dylan Davies, president of Lethbridge Iron Works, highlighted the impact of recent economic uncertainties, including shifting political landscapes and tariffs, which have caused clients, particularly in the U.S., to adopt a 'status quo' approach. The investment is seen as crucial for enabling businesses to adapt and expand into new markets.

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We know that this is a time of global uncertainty. Our businesses are focused on what they can control.

Eleanor Olszewski, Canada's minister of emergency management and community resilience, emphasized that the government's Regional Tariff Response Initiative, a $1.5 billion program, is designed to support businesses that are already actively investing and seeking ways to compete. Beyond Lethbridge Iron Works, other recipients include Triple M Housing, Oyen Regional Rail Company, TCB Manufacturing, and Southland Trailers, with the initiative collectively expected to create over 200 jobs.

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It’s to help businesses that are already adapting, already investing, already finding ways to compete in a changing economy.