On May 28, the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce (MCC) hosted a sold-out MBiz Breakfast featuring the Honourable Wab Kinew, Premier of Manitoba. Key decision makers from the business community and members of the provincial legislature attended the event where the Premier shared his insights on economic development strategies, youth retention, and trade.
Economic Development Strategy: Greening and Learning
Premier Kinew outlined a comprehensive economic strategy based on three pillars. First, strengthening sectors like manufacturing, agriculture, transportation, and finance. Second, developing a low-carbon economy by leveraging Manitoba’s clean electricity and critical mineral resources, with an announcement forthcoming in this area. Third, investing in education and workforce development, emphasizing that “the best economic plan is a good education plan.”
Trade Strategy Focused on the USA
The Premier highlighted Manitoba’s crucial trade relationship with the USA. He emphasized the need for aggressive communication to federal and state decision makers, regardless of the upcoming US national election results. Manitoba’s critical mineral resources, for example, can enhance defense and industrial supply chain security, underscoring the province’s value to the USA.
Youth Talent Retention Top of Mind
Addressing youth outmigration, the Premier acknowledged that there’s no overnight solution. However, he committed to doing whatever is needed, including offering tax credits to improve retention and attraction. He emphasized that affordability in housing will differentiate Manitoba from other areas of Canada.
Sharing Manitoba’s Story
The Premier applauded existing organizations who have been championing Manitoba at recent events. He cited the example of Chuck Davidson, President and CEO of MCC, who represented the province at PDAC, the largest mining conference in Canada. The Premier also expressed his intention to provide resources to support story-telling efforts, aligning with MCC’s advocacy for greater awareness of the many outstanding businesses that contribute to the success of Manitoba.
MCC plays a significant role in these initiatives, working with the provincial government to make Manitoba a prime place to live and work. MCC is developing a green economy roadmap through the Manitoba Green Advantage project, contributing to the Premier’s Business and Jobs council on US trade, commissioning youth talent outmigration recommendations, and supporting leading businesses. This alignment promises a prosperous future for Manitoba, with collaboration being key to realizing this vision. Reach out to MCC to help drive sustainable economic growth in our province.
Media Highlights:
Winnipeg Free Press:
https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/business/2024/05/28/province-putting-priority-on-keeping-people-in-manitoba-kinew-says-during-handshake-with-business-community
https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/2024/05/28/premiers-flaky-pie-in-the-sky-a-late-addition-to-menu-at-business-breakfast-event
CTV:
https://winnipeg.ctvnews.ca/video/c2930491-_we-have-to-target-that-as-the-goal?binId=1.1164782
