Drumheller and District Chamber of Commerce members hosted a virtual conference with Minister of Jobs, Economy, and Innovation Doug Schweitzer on Wednesday, May 12.
Minister Schweitzer discussed Alberta’s recovery plan and economic diversification through growth and expansion of existing and new industries, as well as taking questions from participants.
“I love taking my family to Drumheller, you’ve got the Royal Tyrrell with the dinosaurs; there’s everything there,” Minister Schweitzer said during the Zoom meeting.
One industry which the ministry would like to see enhanced and grow in the province is film and television.
Oscar winning films have already been filmed in Drumheller and surrounding areas, including the villages of Delia and Rockyford. Minister Schweitzer notes Calgary will be a “hub” for film production, similar to Vancouver, B.C., due to its proximity to the mountains, the prairies, and the Canadian Badlands.
Alberta announces more COVID-19 support for small businesses
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The Alberta government is offering additional financial aid to small businesses in the province.
The province has put aside $120 million for the Enhanced COVID-19 Business Benefit which is open to small and medium-sized businesses that have been affected by the pandemic and ongoing health restrictions. Businesses can now access another $10,000 to offset costs for buying personal protective equipment and cleaning supplies, paying rent, hiring staff and expand their online presence.
Businesses will have to show that their revenue has been reduced by 60 per cent or more and have fewer than 500 employees to be eligible. The province says more details on the parameters for funding will be available closer to when applications open in April. Business-owners will not have to repay the province for the funding.