The Manitoba Chambers of Commerce travelled north to join industry leaders, government officials, Indigenous representatives, educators, and local businesses in Thompson this past week to explore the economic future of Northern Manitoba, as guests and partners of the Linkages Conference. Hosted twice annually by University College of the North (UCN), this year’s three-day conference embraced the theme “Reimagining the North.”
The Manitoba Chambers of Commerce has proudly supported this event since its inception in 2018, and each year, Linkages continues to be a catalyst for conversations that lead to real progress. This event aligns perfectly with our mission to support business, foster economic resilience, and advocate for strategic investments in communities across the province. With a focus on economic development, mining, Indigenous partnerships, and workforce growth, this year’s conference discussions highlighted both the challenges and opportunities ahead for our northern communities.
A Stronger, More Inclusive Northern Economy
From keynote speakers to panel discussions, one message stood out: Northern Manitoba is poised for transformation. While economic uncertainty and industry shifts have presented challenges, the region’s abundance of natural resources, untapped workforce, and growing Indigenous leadership position it as a powerhouse of opportunity.
The mining and resource sector was at the heart of many discussions, with industry leaders outlining the significant potential of gold, nickel and other critical minerals in the region. With an estimated 50+ years of viable ore reserves, mining will continue to play a pivotal role in Manitoba’s economic landscape. However, success in this sector depends on responsible, community-driven development that ensures Indigenous communities and local businesses directly benefit from these opportunities.
A key takeaway was that economic reconciliation must mean more than consultation—it must involve Indigenous ownership, leadership, and meaningful partnerships. In his opening remarks, MKO Grand Chief Garrison Settee highlighted the immense potential of Indigenous communities to drive economic growth if given the right tools, resources, and leadership opportunities.
The Role of Education & Workforce Development
One of the biggest conversations at Linkages Thompson 2025 was how to prepare the workforce for the jobs of tomorrow. With a looming labour shortage in many sectors and the increasing demand for skilled trades, mining expertise, and entrepreneurship, Manitoba needs a strategic approach to training and retaining talent in the North.
UCN’s Northern Mining Academy was highlighted as a critical initiative to equip Indigenous and local workers with the skills needed to enter high-demand industries. Speakers also emphasized the importance of work-integrated learning, apprenticeships, and aligning training programs with real industry needs.
The Manitoba Chambers of Commerce strongly supports efforts to bridge the gap between education and employment, ensuring Manitoba’s youth and Indigenous communities see a future for themselves in their home region rather than seeking opportunities elsewhere.
Building Stronger, More Livable Communities
Another recurring theme throughout the conference was that jobs alone won’t keep people in Northern Manitoba—quality of life is just as important. Healthcare, housing, recreation, education, and social services all play a role in creating communities where people want to live, work, and raise families.
Employers and policymakers must work together to ensure that workers and their families have access to essential services, strong infrastructure, and a sense of belonging.
The Dine-Around Dinner: A Unique Networking Opportunity
A key highlight of the conference was the Dine-Around Dinner, a structured networking event similar to the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce’s annual Ministers’ Dinner. Throughout the evening, attendees had the opportunity to engage with three different government officials—one during each course of the meal—providing a rare opportunity for direct dialogue with decision-makers.
This format encouraged open discussions on economic policy, industry challenges, and local priorities, making it an invaluable opportunity for business leaders, community representatives, and Indigenous stakeholders to voice their perspectives and shape the policy conversation.
Strong Government Presence & Meaningful Conversation
One of the standout aspects was the strong participation from government officials, emphasizing the province’s commitment to Northern Manitoba’s economic future. Attendees had the opportunity to hear directly from:
- Hon. Renée Cable, Minister of Advanced Education & Training
- Hon. Jamie Moses, Minister of Business, Mining, Trade & Job Creation
- Thompson Mayor Colleen Smook and The Pas Mayor Andre Murphy
- Several Deputy and Assistant Deputy Ministers from the Province of Manitoba
- Representatives from Prairies Economic Development Canada
Their presence reinforced the importance of collaboration between government, business, and Indigenous leadership to drive sustainable growth in the North.
Mark your calendars!
The next Linkages Conference will take place in The Pas, October 21-22, 2025. If you are a business owner, entrepreneur, policymaker, or community leader, we strongly encourage you to attend. Whether you’re looking for investment opportunities, networking connections, workforce solutions, or insights into the future of the North, this is the place to be.
As we move forward, the MCC remains committed to working with northern businesses, Indigenous partners, and government stakeholders to ensure that economic development is inclusive, sustainable, and beneficial to all Manitobans. Together, we are not just reimagining the North—we are building its future.
