A new speaking series with Boards of Trade and Chambers of Commerce across Canada is convening important conversations about the economy, prosperity and the role of energy.
Founded by Collaborative Canadian Energy Solutions (CCES), Resource Works and Canada Powered by Women (CPW), the series hosts dialogues that bring together industry leaders and business owners to address the critical need for Canadian businesses to play a stronger role in shaping the country’s federal policy and regulatory frameworks across sectors.
Born from discussions among business leaders after a conference in the spring of 2024, the series was originally conceived to tackle growing concerns over restrictive policies and regulations that hinder energy investment and delay major projects.
While the key focus began with energy, the series acknowledges that these challenges affect all areas of resource development and regulation, which is in a continual state of growth and change.
“Really, it’s an opportunity for businesses across sectors at the grassroots level to come together and talk about the current situation in Canada, which we know is rapidly shifting with the influence of geopolitical factors, a dynamic economic environment, and an upcoming federal election,” highlights Gerry Protti, president of CCES.
The series seeks to empower local business communities with insights on how to engage more effectively in policy dialogue, so they can take an active role in advocating for changes that will drive growth, attract investment and support job creation. By visiting various Chambers and Boards of Trade across Canada, the series tailors each presentation to the interests and concerns of local business leaders, ensuring the conversation is relevant and impactful to members in each region.
Presentations highlight opportunities and what isn’t working for Canadians by sharing research and analysis that tie back to the priorities of each community. Through partnerships and collaborations with industry experts, the series aims to foster a more informed and proactive business community that can influence both provincial and federal policy to foster a competitive future for Canada.
The series has already held events in Victoria, B.C., as well as London and Thunder Bay, Ontario. It will head to Atlantic Canada at the end of March and again in May.
Kristen Duever, COO of the London Chamber of Commerce, invited the series to her community after seeing representatives at the Canadian Chamber of Commerce AGM in the fall of 2024. The London discussion focused on the manufacturing sector and their specific concerns on the ongoing tariff situation with the U.S.
“This roundtable was an incredibly valuable experience for our members. The insights shared by CPW CEO Tracey Bodnarchuk, Resource Works CEO Stewart Muir, and Gerry Protti provided a comprehensive understanding of the economic challenges businesses are facing and practical strategies to navigate them,” Duever explains, “The conversation around energy, productivity, and the evolving Canada-U.S. relationship was timely and relevant — equipping attendees with actionable takeaways to strengthen their businesses in an uncertain landscape.”