More than 300 business leaders from across Manitoba joined us on Friday, March 21 for one of the most anticipated events of the year: the MBiz Breakfast – 2025 Provincial Budget Review, featuring Minister of Finance Adrien Sala.
Held annually the morning after Budget Day, this Manitoba Chambers of Commerce (MCC) event offers a unique opportunity for the Minister of Finance to speak directly to Manitoba’s business community about the provincial budget and its implications for economic growth and business confidence.
This year’s event, held at the RBC Convention Centre Winnipeg, once again highlighted the value of meaningful dialogue between business and government. We are proud to play a role in facilitating that dialogue – and thank Minister Sala for joining us to walk through the 2025 budget and address the concerns and aspirations of Manitoba’s job creators.
Budget 2025 acknowledges the challenges facing the business community amid growing uncertainty and concerns over a potential trade war with the United States. MCC is pleased to see the government’s focus on eliminating interprovincial trade barriers and its commitment to a reduction in the payroll tax – something our chamber and the business community have been calling for.
Read our reaction to the budget in its entirety: Manitoba Chambers of Commerce Reacts to Budget 2025
A Major Investment in Artificial Intelligence & Innovation
One of the most significant announcements of the morning was a $2 million investment by the provincial government to support Manitoba small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in boosting productivity and competitiveness through artificial intelligence (AI) adoption.
Minister Sala shared that this investment will back a new initiative led by the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce in partnership with the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce, focused on helping SMEs assess their AI readiness and adoption levels, receive tailored recommendations, and access hands-on mentoring and training.
“This strategic investment ensures SMEs have ongoing support and resources to harness AI, enhancing their competitiveness and resilience,” said Chuck Davidson, MCC President & CEO. “The Manitoba Chambers of Commerce is dedicated to being a champion of AI and its potential to help businesses achieve sustainable economic growth, which in turn benefits the entire province. Delivering this project through Manitoba’s chamber network will allow us to ensure SMEs from all corners of the province can benefit from structured, practical AI methodologies.”
We commend the provincial government for recognizing the importance of technology and innovation in enhancing worker productivity in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, and for making bold investments that will strengthen the capacity of Manitoba’s SMEs.
Read more about this investment, including the provincial government news release: New MCC Initiative to Help SMEs Boost Productivity and Competitiveness Through Adoption of AI Technologies
Thank You to Our Partners
A successful event of this scale wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support of our sponsors and partners.
Thank you to our Premier Partner CPA Manitoba and our Supporting Partners – Manitoba Egg Farmers and Miller Environmental Corporation.
Thank you also to our other sponsors and exhibitors, including:
President’s Table Host: CPHR Manitoba
Media Partner: Winnipeg Free Press
Eco Partner: Canadian Beverage Container Recycling Association
Exhibitors: Manitoba Hotel Association, Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology, World Trade Centre Winnipeg
We extend our sincere thanks to each of these organizations for their commitment to supporting Manitoba’s business community and to helping us deliver a high-caliber event once again this year.
Looking Ahead
As Manitoba businesses continue to face challenges related to economic uncertainty, trade pressures, and workforce needs, events like the MBiz Breakfast Series are essential for keeping lines of communication open between government and business. The Manitoba Chambers of Commerce remains committed to working collaboratively with our provincial partners to ensure that Budget 2025 is implemented in ways that drive economic growth, foster innovation, and strengthen the resilience of Manitoba businesses.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the 2025 Provincial Budget Review. We look forward to continuing this important conversation throughout the year.
