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Out of the Norm

How Chambers of Commerce Support Members Through Tough Times

By Norman Leach | June 9, 2025

Local Chambers of Commerce are powerful allies for businesses during tough times, offering exclusive savings, marketing opportunities, and invaluable community support. By becoming a member, you gain tools and connections that help your business not only survive—but thrive.

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The value of work-integrated Learning in building future-ready talent

The Value of Work-Integrated Learning in Building Future-Ready Talent

By Norman Leach | May 14, 2025

Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) connects classroom learning with real-world experience to prepare students for career success. By integrating internships, co-ops, and industry projects, WIL equips graduates with practical skills, confidence, and professional networks.

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Image of a person with a graduation cap on and another person considering things. Text over image says The Shift to Competency-Based Education in Higher Learning and GPRC

The Shift to Competency-Based Education in Higher Learning

By Norman Leach | April 8, 2025

Discover how competency-based education in higher learning offers a flexible, skill-focused alternative to traditional degrees—empowering students with real-world readiness.

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Canada Needs to Reevaluate Its Diplomacy

By Norman Leach | March 17, 2025

March 17, 2025 / Deborah / Comments Off on Canada Needs To Reevaluate Its Diplomacy – and not just with the Americans! In the realm of international business, diplomacy serves as a cornerstone for success. The late Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, during a 2011 address at the University of Toronto, aptly remarked, “Anyone who…

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An illustration of the economic effects of tariffs on Canada, featuring a stylized map of Canada with highlighted icons representing key industries such as automotive, agriculture, and energy. The border between Canada and the U.S. is depicted as a symbolic trade barrier with abstract elements like gears, charts, and graphs, emphasizing the economic theme. The image uses a neutral and corporate color palette of blue, grey, and white.

Trump’s Tariffs on Canada – an Update

By Norman Leach | January 21, 2025

Introduction The imposition of tariffs by former President Donald Trump has been a contentious issue, particularly concerning its impacts on Canada. With Donald Trump’s speech at his inauguration, it appears there will be a delay in implementing the tariffs as all US departments report back on unfair trade issues. Possible Impacts of Trump’s Tariffs on…

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Donald Trump and the 25% Tariff

By Norman Leach | November 26, 2024

November 26, 2024 / Norman Leach / Comments Off on Donald Trump and the 25% Tariff You can’t help but notice President Elect Donald Trump is peeved with the Federal Government in Ottawa. He has posted that, on his first day in office, he will impose a 25% tariff on Canadian exports to the United…

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Accelerate Your Business With GPRC Membership

Accelerate Your Business with GPRC Membership

By Norman Leach | July 1, 2024

By joining the GPCC, you benefit from advocacy at multiple government levels, robust networking events, and a variety of essential business services.

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Networking — The real secret to business success

By Norman Leach | June 5, 2024

Networking serves as the lifeblood of any thriving business community, facilitating connections, fostering collaborations, and unlocking new opportunities for growth and development.

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Blog: Making the Most of your Membership

Making the Most of Your Membership

By Norman Leach | April 15, 2024

Maximizing your membership in the Greater Parkland Regional Chamber of Commerce isn’t just about joining, it’s about actively engaging to reap the maximum benefits.

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The Chamber of Commerce: A Cornerstone for Business

The Chamber of Commerce: A Cornerstone for Businesses

By Norman Leach | March 20, 2024

The chamber of commerce serves as a cornerstone for businesses, prioritizing the needs and interests of its members through a blend of professional services and friendly support. At its essence, the chamber acts as a trusted ally — advocating, empowering, and connecting its members to foster growth and success. Primarily, the chamber serves as a…

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State of the Region 2024

State of the Region 2024

By Norman Leach | March 20, 2024

Enjoy photos from our 2024 State of the Region event, held on the 15th of March at Heritage Park Hall. The Greater Parkland Regional Chamber of Commerce welcomed Mayor Allan Gamble of Parkland County, Mayor Jeff Acker of the City of Spruce Grove, Mayor William Choy of the Town of Stony Plain, for our 5th…

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Chamber on Tap: Homegrown Foods

Chamber on Tap – Homegrown Foods

By Norman Leach | March 5, 2024

Check out photos from our great Chamber on Tap event at Homegrown Foods on Tuesday February 27th, 2024.

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