Representatives from more than 320 Canadian chambers of commerce will gather in Thunder Bay this weekend to promote business development and growth thanks to a Government of Canada investment of $17,700.

“The Government of Canada is proud to support the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce and its local partners in their efforts to showcase our region and promote its many successes to business leaders from across the country. The conference will help increase collaboration between members of the national organization and several key economic development and business groups to the benefit of all Canadians.”

The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour, and Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay—Superior North

“The convergence of business leaders from across Canada is an exceptional opportunity for learning, sharing and building new business relationships for Thunder Bay and Northern Ontario businesses. I am proud our government recognizes the potential of events such as the Canadian Chamber of Commerce AGM and helps local partners in their efforts to strengthen our economy and create jobs.”

Don Rusnak, Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay—Rainy River

“This is the first time that a Northern Ontario community is hosting the Canadian Chamber of Commerce AGM and we are grateful to the Government of Canada for helping us with this endeavour. By hosting this annual meeting of business leaders, we are providing an exceptional stage to showcase the vast opportunities for growth in Northern Ontario's economy and showing the country how our economic activity impacts the prosperity of the rest of Canada.”

Charla Robinson, President, Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce

• The funding announced today is provided through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program, which supports projects that promote sustainable community economic development, enhance business development and growth, and facilitate innovation throughout the region.

• The Prosperity and Growth Strategy for Northern Ontario outlines the Government of Canada’s approach to ensure the region can fully benefit from the national Innovation and Skills Plan. It is focused on three key economic development areas: supporting innovation; growing companies; and building stronger communities.

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Paul Denis
Communications Officer
FedNor
705-507-0539
paul.denis@canada.ca