Alberta’s digital economy is expanding rapidly, valued at $49 billion in 2021 and projected to reach $68 billion by 2030. With strengths in artificial intelligence, clean technologies, and health innovation, Alberta is positioning itself as a national leader in digital transformation. But for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), growth depends on more than technology—it requires networks, talent, and resources to scale.

At the same time, Alberta’s unemployment rate has risen above 8%, with youth unemployment at 17%. Many jobseekers, especially recent graduates, report a frustrating job market filled with long hiring processes and limited entry points. This gap presents both a challenge and an opportunity: SMEs urgently need skilled talent to grow, while many young Albertans are seeking pathways into meaningful, future-ready jobs.

In this evolving landscape, how can Alberta’s SMEs leverage their agility, adopt AI-driven hiring tools, and turn their size into a competitive advantage in attracting top talent?

Join the Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC) in Edmonton on November 18, 2025, ahead of the Alberta Chamber of Commerce’s Talent Development Symposium for an event alongside SMEs, innovators, and policymakers to explore strategies at the intersection of smart hiring, digital innovation, and SME growth.

What to Expect:

Through interactive discussions and networking, participants will:

• Learn how to access resources through ICTC's Digital Workforce Catalyst Alberta (DWCA) program, offered in partnership with the Government of Alberta, to help their businesses grow and sustain a strong talent pipeline.
• Explore tools and strategies for workforce recruitment and retention, ensuring SMEs can remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
• Build networks with peers, government, and innovation leaders to strengthen Alberta's digital business ecosystem.

Who should attend?

• Entrepreneurs and SME leaders looking to grow in Alberta's digital economy.
• HR and business leaders seeking effective strategies to attract and retain skilled talent.
• Policymakers, educators, and ecosystem partners supporting Alberta's innovation agenda.

This event is an opportunity to connect, learn, and collaborate on building a resilient, future-ready economy in Alberta.

Agenda:

4:30 PM – 5:30 PM | Registration, Refreshments, Networking

5:30 PM -5:45 PM| Welcome and Opening Remarks

5:45 PM – 6:15 PM | Keynote Presentation (to be announced)

6:15 PM – 7:00 PM | Panel Discussion (to be announced)

7:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Closing Remarks, Refreshments and Networking