Alberta finance minister to outline budget plan in Calgary amid projected $9.4B deficit

Alberta Finance Minister Nate Horner is in Calgary today to outline the province’s newly tabled budget and discuss the economic outlook with business leaders, including a scheduled appearance at the Calgary Chamber of Commerce.

Budget 2026 projects a $9.4 billion deficit for 2026–27 as the province increases spending in key areas while forecasting lower resource revenues tied to weaker oil prices and ongoing population growth pressures.

The government says the budget increases funding for major public services and includes new education spending aimed at enrolment growth, teacher compensation, classroom conditions, and school infrastructure.

Reaction has been mixed. The Alberta Teachers’ Association said the budget’s education investment acknowledges urgent pressures facing classrooms and schools. The deficit and spending commitments are expected to be debated in the legislature in the coming weeks as the government defends its approach to managing a resource-driven economy.

Source: Government of Alberta Budget Highlights
With files from The Canadian Press