Some of the fastest-growing businesses in Canada are led by Indigenous entrepreneurs, racialized individuals, newcomers, persons with disabilities, women, and 2SLGBTQ+ leaders. These businesses are powerful drivers of innovation, job creation, and investment that fuel a more dynamic local economy.
Yet, systemic barriers such as structural biases, limited access to financing, and sector-specific underrepresentation continue to limit their full participation, leaving untapped potential on the table.
A recent Business Data Lab report found that only 18% of Canadian businesses are women-owned. It estimates Canada is missing out on approximately 710,000 women entrepreneurs and that these barriers have cost the country $150 billion in GDP loss over the past 7–8 years.
In Winnipeg, whether you are sitting in a cafe, riding a bus, or walking downtown you can hear some of the over 30 languages already spoken in our city. By breaking down systemic barriers and championing inclusive economic development, we can ensure that Winnipeg’s rapid growth—set to reach a population of one million by 2046—leads to a future of shared prosperity.
Let’s build a future where every entrepreneur—regardless of background—has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to our city’s success.
These innovators are shaping the future—will you support and grow with them?
At the upcoming ECONx summit, we will create solutions that will lead us to a more equitable future.
One of ECONx’s key sessions is, “Winnipeg as a Leader of Equitable Economic Growth,” where you’ll explore strategies for economic empowerment, the economic impact of inclusive practices, and how to integrate principles that promote equity.
Featuring Jamie Wilson, Vice President of Indigenous Strategy, Research and Businesses Development at Red River College Polytech, and alongside strategic partners like Immigration Partnership Winnipeg (IPW), Manitoba Association of Newcomer Serving Organizations (MANSO), Indigenous Chamber of Commerce and Manitoba Possible, this session will bring business leaders, policy makers, academia and subject experts together.
Jamie Wilson, from Opaskwayak Cree Nation in Treaty 5 territory, is the first-ever Vice-President of Indigenous Strategy and Business Development at RRC Polytech, a position he has held since January 2022. His diverse career includes roles as a Deputy Minister, educator, member of the US Army’s 75th Ranger Regiment, and Manitoba’s Treaty Commissioner. As a leader passionate about building bridges between First Nations and business communities to create a strong and prosperous economic future for all, this is a presentation you won’t want to miss..
Be a part of the solution and join us at ECONx on April 29, 2025 at RBC Winnipeg Convention Centre.
Register for ECONx 2025: https://winnipeg-chamber.com/econx-2025/
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