Northern Ontario open for business
Northwestern Ontario businesses are networking and building partnerships after Wednesday’s Prosperity Northwest conference at the Valhalla Hotel.
The annual trade show is a collaboration between the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce and Anishnawbe Business Professional Association.
Chamber of Commerce President Charla Robinson says there are major economic opportunities on the horizon in the region.
“All industries are going through massive transformation and innovation,” Robinson said. “That’s sort of changing the way business is operating, particularly in mining and forestry. There’s a lot of new technology which opens it up for new suppliers and sources.”
Keynote speakers shared advice for accessing federal procurement opportunities after Canada increased their defence budget this year. An update on the ongoing lithium refinement project was also provided.
Robinson says the conference is important for business leaders to meet the right people, expand their enterprises and ultimately grow the economy.
“The first thing is you need to know who to talk to, and you need to know where the start of the pathway is,” Robinson said. “We’ve got the Innovation Centre, we’ve got the CEDC (Community Economic Development Centre), we’ve got FedNor (Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario). They’re all represented here.”
Founding member Jason Thompson says the conference is a great way for Indigenous-lead businesses to broaden their reach.
“I’ve always said our people are not anti-development,” Thompson said. “This conference is a great catalyst for getting out here, actively participating, meeting different people, and seeing where the opportunities lie.”
