Manitoba’s North is reclaiming its place at the center of Canada’s economic story. That message resonated through the Delta Hotel ballroom on November 5, as more than 350 business and community leaders gathered for the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce MBiz Breakfast, Gateway to Growth: Canada’s Arctic Trade Corridor.
Keynote speaker Chris Avery, President and CEO of Arctic Gateway Group, shared a compelling vision for the revitalization of the Port of Churchill and the Hudson Bay Railway, a project that represents one of the province’s most promising pathways for growth, reconciliation, and national connectivity. A panel discussion with Carly Edmundson of CentrePort Canada Inc. and David Kakuktinniq of Sakku Investments Corporation expanded the conversation, highlighting how northern partnerships and infrastructure investment can shape a more resilient Manitoba economy.
Charting a New Northern Vision
In his address, Chris Avery reflected on Arctic Gateway Group’s transformation from crisis recovery to a new phase of strength and ambition. The Indigenous and community-owned company now operates the Hudson Bay Railway and Port of Churchill, employing a majority Indigenous workforce and advancing a model of economic reconciliation unique in Canada.
He outlined the Port of Churchill Plus vision, a plan to establish Churchill as a year-round northern trade hub. The strategy includes upgrading the Hudson Bay Railway to Class 1 standards, expanding storage and port capacity, exploring an all-season road link, and positioning Manitoba as a key player in Canada’s critical minerals and energy future.
Avery underscored that growth must align with environmental stewardship and community respect. “The future of Churchill isn’t about choosing between economic growth and environmental stewardship,” he said. “It’s about proving that we can, and must, do both.”
Expanding the Conversation
Following the keynote, panelists Carly Edmundson and David Kakuktinniq offered insight into how strengthened transportation corridors between Manitoba and Nunavut could unlock new opportunities for trade, workforce development, and investment. Their discussion reinforced a shared belief that collaboration across business, government, and Indigenous leadership will be key to realizing Manitoba’s northern potential.
Throughout the morning, the message was clear: Manitoba’s economic future depends on inclusive partnerships and sustained investment in the infrastructure that connects the province to the world.
The Manitoba Chambers of Commerce extends sincere thanks to the event’s premier partner, 6P Marketing, and to our valued sponsors: Miller Environmental Corporation, World Trade Centre Winnipeg, Manitoba Egg Farmers, CPHR Manitoba, the University of Manitoba, Travel Manitoba, Manitoba Camping Association, Culturosity, and the Canadian Beverage Container Recycling Association.
Their support helps bring Manitoba’s business community together to share ideas, strengthen connections, and shape the province’s path forward.
