Latest news with #EmergencyManagementandCommunityResilience
Cision Canada
6 days ago
- Politics
- Cision Canada
Statement from Minister Olszewski regarding wildfires in Manitoba Français
OTTAWA, ON, /CNW/ - Today, the Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada, issued the following statement: "Major wildfires continue to spread in Manitoba, threatening communities and forcing the need for evacuations across the province. Yesterday evening, in my capacity as Minister of Emergency Management, I approved an additional Request for Federal Assistance from the Government of Manitoba, this one to provide humanitarian workforce support for emergency evacuation and sheltering activities. The Government Operations Centre continues to work with the Canadian Armed Forces, federal and provincial partners, and humanitarian organizations to deliver the support Manitoba needs. On behalf of all Canadians, I once again wish to thank everyone helping to keep people across the country safe during this wildfire season, including firefighters, first responders, emergency management officials, humanitarian organizations and local volunteers. I am in regular contact with my counterpart in Manitoba. Our government will act fast if more help is needed." Associated Links Stay Connected Follow Public Safety Canada on X, LinkedIn and YouTube Follow Get Prepared on X Follow Emergency Ready in Canada on Facebook
Cision Canada
11-07-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
Canada and Alberta invest $203 million for affordable housing Français
EDMONTON, AB, July 11, 2025 /CNW/ - Solving Canada's housing crisis requires immediate action to bring down costs. To provide Canadians with increased access to affordable and sustainable housing, the governments of Canada and Alberta today announced funding of $203 million to help build over 2,300 affordable housing units across the province. This investment is cost-matched by both governments thanks to the Canada – Alberta Bilateral Agreement under the National Housing Strategy. This funding is delivered through Alberta's Affordable Housing Partnership Program (AHPP). The announcement was made by the Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience, Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada, and Member of Parliament for Edmonton Centre, and the Honourable Jason Nixon, Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services. All of the project proposals were assessed based on the local community needs and ability to achieve outcomes for Albertans with low income, as well as value for taxpayer money. Types of projects can include building new housing, mixed-income developments with an affordable and/or social housing component or specialised housing, an addition or renovation of existing housing resulting in a minimum of five net new affordable housing units, conversion of non-rental housing, re-development of an existing site involving demolition and new construction. As we build a strong Canadian housing sector, purposeful collaboration will be essential. That means working hand-in-hand with the non-profit sector to bring down costs and build homes at a scale and speed not seen since the Second World War. Quotes: "We're building a new generation of housing, using every tool available to build homes at a scale not seen since the Second World War. Partnerships are necessary for building homes that Canadians need. These funds will ensure that Albertans have an affordable place to call home in the years ahead." – The Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure "Our government's bilateral agreement with the government of Alberta has allowed us to work together to build a new and better generation of community and social housing across the province. Complex issues demand innovative solutions, and this strong partnership is necessary for quickly building homes that Canadians need now." – The Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience, Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada, and Member of Parliament for Edmonton Centre "Alberta's government is focused on results. We're getting shovels in the ground and roofs over Albertans' heads. With this record investment, thousands more low-income Albertans will have a safe, affordable home they can count on, so they can move forward with dignity and stability." – Jason Nixon, Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services Quick Facts: The National Housing Strategy (NHS) is a 10+ year, $115+ billion plan to give more Canadians a place to call home. Progress on programs and initiatives are updated quarterly on the Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada (HICC) website. The Housing and Infrastructure Project Map shows affordable housing projects that have been developed. As of March 2025, the federal government has committed $65.84 billion to support the creation of over 166,000 units and the repair of over 322,000 units. These measures prioritize those in greatest need, including seniors, Indigenous Peoples, people experiencing or at risk of homelessness, and women and children fleeing violence NHS is built on strong partnerships between the federal, provincial, and territorial governments, and continuous engagement with others, including municipalities, Indigenous governments and organizations, and the social and private housing sectors. This includes consultations with Canadians from all walks of life, and people with lived experience of housing need. All NHS investments delivered by the federal, provincial, and territorial governments will respect the key principles of NHS that support partnerships, people, and communities Projects funded in today's announcement include: Edmonton $6 million for 12621665 Canada Association to build affordable housing. $20 million for Civida to build mixed-use, mixed-income affordable housing. $4.05 million for Williams Hall to build mixed-use affordable housing with a focus to support young adults, students, and individuals facing rental barriers. $6.69 million for Brentwood Family Housing Society to build affordable housing for families. $4.67 million for The Mustard Seed Foundation to build supportive housing. Calgary $28.6 million for Calhome Properties to build mixed-income affordable housing. $30.5 million for Onward Homes Society to build three affordable housing projects. $13 million for 800 GP Corporation to convert a vacant office tower into affordable housing. $22 million for Calgary Heritage Housing to build three buildings for seniors self-contained units. $3.5 million for Attainable Homes Calgary to build mixed-use, mixed-income affordable housing. $7.54 million for Liberty Housing Organization to build mixed-use affordable housing. $3.08 million for Victory Outreach Foundation to convert a hotel to affordable housing. $6.2 million for Homespace Society to build affordable housing. $2.7 million for the City of Calgary to build mixed-income, mixed-use affordable housing. Other $14.5 million for Homeland Housing to build affordable housing in St. Albert. $8.84 million for Heartland Housing Foundation to build affordable housing in Sherwood Park. $6.43 million for the Town of Banff to build affordable housing. $5.53 million for the Municipality of Jasper to build phase two of its affordable housing project. $3.3 million for Westwinds Communities to build affordable housing in Okotoks. $3.5 million for Truth North Society to build affordable housing in Strathmore. $2.5 million for Canadian Rockies School Division to build affordable housing in Canmore. Land transfer for Heartland Housing Foundation to build affordable housing in Fort Saskatchewan. Additional Information: Visit for the most-requested Government of Canada housing information. CMHC plays a critical role as a national facilitator to promote stability and sustainability in Canada's housing finance system. Our mortgage insurance products support access to homeownership and the creation and maintenance of rental supply. We also actively support the Government of Canada in delivering on its commitment to make housing more affordable. Our research and data help inform housing policy. By facilitating cooperation between all levels of government, private and non-profit sectors, we contribute to advancing housing affordability, equity, and climate compatibility. Follow us on X, YouTube, LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.
Yahoo
24-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Minister Olszewski announces support to help Alberta businesses diversify, scale up and thrive
These targeted investments will help seven Alberta businesses and organizations in various sectors navigate a rapidly evolving economic landscape EDMONTON, AB, June 24, 2025 /CNW/ - Today, the Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan), announced federal investments of over $10.9 million for seven Alberta-based businesses and organizations leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), digital adoption and advanced manufacturing. These investments will help them grow, diversify and adapt to a rapidly evolving economic landscape. Building on the Prairies' established strengths in areas such as artificial intelligence and technology, today's announcement reinforces the province's reputation as an innovation hub. They include: Over $1.9 million for RAM Elevators + Lifts to expand the manufacturing capacity of its elevators and lifts for home and commercial spaces. $1.8 million for samdesk to commercialize and accelerate marketplace adoption of its AI-powered platform for crisis and travel risk management. $2.5 million for Promise Robotics to establish a robotics-driven homebuilding factory that will support the production of sustainable and affordable homes. This strategic investment advances the Government of Canada's commitment to building a stronger, more resilient Canadian economy. Quotes "The world is changing fast, and Alberta businesses are rising to meet that challenge with innovation and ambition. Our new government is investing in high-growth companies so they can harness AI, robotics, and advanced manufacturing—not just to stay competitive, but to lead. These are the kinds of forward-looking investments that create good jobs and position Canada for long-term success in a shifting global economy."–The Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan) "As a proud Canadian company, samdesk is thrilled to be recognized among Alberta's most innovative businesses. This support helps us accelerate the global adoption of our AI-powered crisis and risk intelligence platform – technology that's already proving critical in helping governments, enterprises, and humanitarian organizations respond faster to wildfires, natural disasters, geopolitical disruptions, and more. From defence to disaster response, our AI is enabling smarter, real-time decisions when they matter most."–James Neufeld, CEO and Founder, samdesk "At RAM Elevators + Lifts, we have a vision of making 10,000 more buildings accessible by 2028. With the support of PrairiesCan's Business Scale-Up funding, we will be able to move into a larger plant to increase our manufacturing capacity, invest in modern equipment that will enhance our productivity, and add key people to our team, all of which will help make this goal a reality."–Corey Smith, President & Chief Executive Officer, RAM Elevators + Lifts "This kind of investment is exactly what Alberta needs to compete and thrive in a changing economy. By supporting businesses that are scaling up, adopting advanced technologies, and creating high-quality jobs, PrairiesCan is helping to grow a more productive, resilient, and globally competitive Alberta economy. The Edmonton Chamber applauds this commitment to innovation and economic growth—and the confidence it shows in Alberta's potential."–Doug Griffiths, CEO, Edmonton Chamber of Commerce Quick facts Today's announcement of over $10.9 million is through PrairiesCan's Business Scale-up and Productivity program, the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative, and the Regional Homebuilding Innovation Initiative. The investments announced today are expected to support approximately 200 jobs. Backgrounder PrairiesCan is investing $10,901,711 in repayable and non-repayable funding for seven projects in Alberta through the Business Scale-up and Productivity (BSP) program, the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII), and the Regional Homebuilding Innovation Initiative (RHII). These targeted investments will help businesses and organizations access diverse funding opportunities to enhance their productivity, scale up, boost production efficiencies, and tackle challenges with new and innovative technologies. They are expected to support approximately 200 jobs and enable Alberta businesses to capitalize on new opportunities. Business Scale-up and Productivity (BSP) program – $5,189,535 The BSP program supports high-growth businesses that are seeking to improve productivity, scale-up, and commercialize technology. It offers interest-free, repayable funding to incorporated businesses that have been in operation for a minimum of two years. PrairiesCan announced investments for three projects under BSP: 48Hour Discovery ($1,149,504)Enhance the organization's drug discovery platform through AI to gain access to new markets. Crust Craft ($2,040,270)Expand commercial baking capacity in Edmonton by relocating and installing advanced automated production lines. RAM Elevators + Lifts ($1,999,761)Expand the manufacturing capacity of its elevators and lifts for home and commercial spaces in North America, including the introduction of the Flex Lift to market. Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) – $3,212,176 The RAII provides $200 million to help businesses bring new AI technologies to market and speed up adoption in critical sectors such as agriculture, clean technology, healthcare, and manufacturing. This repayable and non-repayable interest-free funding is part of the government's 2024 budget commitment to ensure Canada is a world leader in AI. PrairiesCan announced investments for three projects under the RAII: Canadian Agri-Food Automation and Intelligence Network ($494,000)Establish and launch a technology demonstration program to support the commercial adoption of AI-based agriculture technology. Phoenix Farms Ltd. ($918,176)Adopt an optical sorter with AI detection to grade and sort potatoes to expand on-farm efficiency and quality market offerings. samdesk ($1,800,000)Commercialize and accelerate the marketplace adoption of an AI-powered platform for crisis and travel risk management. Regional Homebuilding Innovation Initiative (RHII) – $2,500,000 Through the RHII, the Government of Canada is investing $50 million over two years to support innovative housing solutions across the country. The RHII provides repayable interest-free funding to pursue new approaches for building houses, including designing and upscaling modular homes, using 3D printing, leveraging panelized construction, as well as implementing net-zero and climate resilient homebuilding practices. PrairiesCan announced investment for one project under the RHII: Promise Robotics Inc. ($2,500,000)Establish a robotics-driven homebuilding factory in Calgary that will support the production of sustainable and affordable homes. Associated links Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan) Business Scale-up and Productivity (BSP) program Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) Regional Homebuilding Innovation Initiative (RHII) Stay connected Follow PrairiesCan on X (formerly Twitter) and LinkedIn Toll-Free Number: 1-888-338-9378 TTY (telecommunications device for the hearing impaired): 1-877-303-3388 SOURCE Prairies Economic Development Canada View original content to download multimedia: Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Cision Canada
24-06-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
Minister Olszewski announces support to help Alberta businesses diversify, scale up and thrive
These targeted investments will help seven Alberta businesses and organizations in various sectors navigate a rapidly evolving economic landscape EDMONTON, AB, June 24, 2025 /CNW/ - Today, the Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan), announced federal investments of over $10.9 million for seven Alberta-based businesses and organizations leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), digital adoption and advanced manufacturing. These investments will help them grow, diversify and adapt to a rapidly evolving economic landscape. Building on the Prairies' established strengths in areas such as artificial intelligence and technology, today's announcement reinforces the province's reputation as an innovation hub. They include: Over $1.9 million for RAM Elevators + Lifts to expand the manufacturing capacity of its elevators and lifts for home and commercial spaces. $1.8 million for samdesk to commercialize and accelerate marketplace adoption of its AI-powered platform for crisis and travel risk management. $2.5 million for Promise Robotics to establish a robotics-driven homebuilding factory that will support the production of sustainable and affordable homes. This strategic investment advances the Government of Canada's commitment to building a stronger, more resilient Canadian economy. Quotes "The world is changing fast, and Alberta businesses are rising to meet that challenge with innovation and ambition. Our new government is investing in high-growth companies so they can harness AI, robotics, and advanced manufacturing—not just to stay competitive, but to lead. These are the kinds of forward-looking investments that create good jobs and position Canada for long-term success in a shifting global economy." –The Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan) " As a proud Canadian company, samdesk is thrilled to be recognized among Alberta's most innovative businesses. This support helps us accelerate the global adoption of our AI-powered crisis and risk intelligence platform – technology that's already proving critical in helping governments, enterprises, and humanitarian organizations respond faster to wildfires, natural disasters, geopolitical disruptions, and more. From defence to disaster response, our AI is enabling smarter, real-time decisions when they matter most." – James Neufeld, CEO and Founder, samdesk "At RAM Elevators + Lifts, we have a vision of making 10,000 more buildings accessible by 2028. With the support of PrairiesCan's Business Scale-Up funding, we will be able to move into a larger plant to increase our manufacturing capacity, invest in modern equipment that will enhance our productivity, and add key people to our team, all of which will help make this goal a reality." – Corey Smith, President & Chief Executive Officer, RAM Elevators + Lifts "This kind of investment is exactly what Alberta needs to compete and thrive in a changing economy. By supporting businesses that are scaling up, adopting advanced technologies, and creating high-quality jobs, PrairiesCan is helping to grow a more productive, resilient, and globally competitive Alberta economy. The Edmonton Chamber applauds this commitment to innovation and economic growth—and the confidence it shows in Alberta's potential." – Doug Griffiths, CEO, Edmonton Chamber of Commerce Quick facts Today's announcement of over $10.9 million is through PrairiesCan's Business Scale-up and Productivity program, the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative, and the Regional Homebuilding Innovation Initiative. The investments announced today are expected to support approximately 200 jobs. Backgrounder PrairiesCan is investing $10,901,711 in repayable and non-repayable funding for seven projects in Alberta through the Business Scale-up and Productivity (BSP) program, the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII), and the Regional Homebuilding Innovation Initiative (RHII). These targeted investments will help businesses and organizations access diverse funding opportunities to enhance their productivity, scale up, boost production efficiencies, and tackle challenges with new and innovative technologies. They are expected to support approximately 200 jobs and enable Alberta businesses to capitalize on new opportunities. Business Scale-up and Productivity (BSP) program – $5,189,535 The BSP program supports high-growth businesses that are seeking to improve productivity, scale-up, and commercialize technology. It offers interest-free, repayable funding to incorporated businesses that have been in operation for a minimum of two years. PrairiesCan announced investments for three projects under BSP: 48Hour Discovery ($1,149,504) Enhance the organization's drug discovery platform through AI to gain access to new markets. Crust Craft ($2,040,270) Expand commercial baking capacity in Edmonton by relocating and installing advanced automated production lines. RAM Elevators + Lifts ($1,999,761) Expand the manufacturing capacity of its elevators and lifts for home and commercial spaces in North America, including the introduction of the Flex Lift to market. Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) – $3,212,176 The RAII provides $200 million to help businesses bring new AI technologies to market and speed up adoption in critical sectors such as agriculture, clean technology, healthcare, and manufacturing. This repayable and non-repayable interest-free funding is part of the government's 2024 budget commitment to ensure Canada is a world leader in AI. PrairiesCan announced investments for three projects under the RAII: Canadian Agri-Food Automation and Intelligence Network ($494,000) Establish and launch a technology demonstration program to support the commercial adoption of AI-based agriculture technology. Phoenix Farms Ltd. ($918,176) Adopt an optical sorter with AI detection to grade and sort potatoes to expand on-farm efficiency and quality market offerings. samdesk ($1,800,000) Commercialize and accelerate the marketplace adoption of an AI-powered platform for crisis and travel risk management. Regional Homebuilding Innovation Initiative (RHII) – $2,500,000 Through the RHII, the Government of Canada is investing $50 million over two years to support innovative housing solutions across the country. The RHII provides repayable interest-free funding to pursue new approaches for building houses, including designing and upscaling modular homes, using 3D printing, leveraging panelized construction, as well as implementing net-zero and climate resilient homebuilding practices. PrairiesCan announced investment for one project under the RHII: Associated links Stay connected Follow PrairiesCan on X (formerly Twitter) and LinkedIn Toll-Free Number: 1-888-338-9378 TTY (telecommunications device for the hearing impaired): 1-877-303-3388 SOURCE Prairies Economic Development Canada
Canada Standard
24-06-2025
- Business
- Canada Standard
Minister Olszewski to announce support to enhance business productivity in Alberta
Canada News Centre 23 Jun 2025, 20:42 GMT+10 June 23, 2025 - Edmonton, Alberta The Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan), will announce federal investments to bolster the global competitiveness and productivity at cutting-edge Alberta businesses in fields like manufacturing, agri-food, technology and health sciences. Minister Olszewski will be joined by Doug Griffiths, President & CEO , Edmonton Chamber of Commerce; Corey Smith, President & CEO , RAM Elevators + Lifts; and, James Neufeld, Founder & CEO , samdesk. Speakers will take questions from the media following the remarks. Date: Tuesday, June 24, 2025 Time: 10:00 a.m. ( MT ) Location: samdesk 10130 103 St, Unit 750 Edmonton, AB
