November 13, 2018
Northern Economic Development Tours Launch in Thompson
– – –Helping Spur New Partnerships, Economic Development in the North: Pedersen
THOMPSON—The Manitoba government is working with economic development and business leaders to continue to advance the Look North initiative and strengthen the northern economy, Growth, Enterprise and Trade Minister Blaine Pedersen announced here today at the launch of Northern Economic Development Tours.
“We are proud to be part of these efforts to advance Look North priorities and showcase northern Manitoba as a place for opportunity and investment,” said Pedersen. “Look North is an economic movement by northerners, for northerners, based on the understanding that the people of the north best understand their own needs.”
Hosted by the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, the tours provide an opportunity for business leaders to visit local businesses in the north and meet with key decision-makers and stakeholders, highlighting potential economic development opportunities in the communities.
“We’re encouraged by the discussions we’ll continue to have about local solutions that build upon the unique strengths of the region,” said Pedersen.
The minister noted Look North was initiated in 2016 to help unlock the economic potential in northern Manitoba. Led by Chuck Davidson and Onekanew Christian Sinclair, the Look North Steering Committee is working together with community and business leaders to develop the northern story and brand, build pride and inspire confidence, and connect the north with broader economic opportunities.
The Manitoba government is contributing $20,000 to the Northern Economic Development Tours through Manitoba Indigenous and Northern Relations and up to $50,000 in-kind from Manitoba Growth, Enterprise and Trade. Western Economic Diversification Canada is also supporting the initiative through the Churchill Regional Economic Development Fund.
The Look North Report and Action Plan for Manitoba’s Northern Economy outlines six priority areas to help advance growth and prosperity in the region including northern mineral and other resource potential, Indigenous engagement and partnerships, strategic infrastructure investment, housing challenges and opportunities, enterprise eco-system of support, and education, training and workforce development.
More information on Look North is available at www.gov.mb.ca/looknorth/news.html.
Learn more about the Northern Economic Development Tours at:
https://mbchamber.mb.ca/economic-development-tours/.
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