Futureproofing Canada

In this episode of Futureproofing Canada, Jennifer Ditchburn speaks with Pari Johnston, President and CEO of Colleges and Institutes Canada, about why the country’s workforce strategy must include its colleges. Johnston shares how colleges are powering applied research and training across the country, from AI labs to smart farms, while advancing Indigenous economic reconciliation and helping communities navigate economic transition. She also discusses the ripple effects of recent international-student policy changes and what they reveal about Canada’s broader labour and demographic challenges. Tune in to hear Johnston’s insights on how colleges can power Canada’s future prosperity.

Join former chief trade negotiator Steve Verheul, Canadian Chamber of Commerce's Matthew Holmes, and political science professor Patricia Goff as they explore Canada's trade landscape. They discuss the current deadlock in Canada-U.S. negotiations and the challenges of diversifying trade relationships beyond the U.S. The panel highlights potential growth sectors like critical minerals and energy, while addressing the complexities of navigating geopolitical tensions with China. Their insights reveal how strategic policy can reshape Canada's trading future.

In this episode, RJ Simpson, Premier of the Northwest Territories, joins us for a conversation about how the North can help shape Canada’s economic and security future. Simpson highlights the region’s wealth of critical minerals and the importance of projects like the proposed Arctic Security Corridor to unlock new opportunities. He underscores the need for climate-resilient infrastructure, local workforce training, and strong partnerships with Indigenous governments to ensure development is both sustainable and inclusive. Tune in to hear his vision for the North and what it means for the future of the country.

In this episode, Jennifer is joined by David Chaundy, President and CEO of the Atlantic Economic Council, for a conversation about the economic transformation of Atlantic Canada and what lies ahead for the region. Chaundy reflects on more than two decades of industrial change, from the decline of traditional sectors to the rise of bioscience, aerospace, and offshore energy. He highlights the challenges posed by tariffs and labour shortages, as well as the opportunities presented by immigration, interprovincial trade, and strategic investments in energy, transportation, and defence. Chaundy outlines a vision for Atlantic Canada that links economic resilience to national priorities, showing how the region can play a critical role in Canada’s long-term prosperity.

Why Canada Needs a Rural Lens in Decision-Making by IRPP

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In this engaging discussion, Zita Cobb, CEO of Shorefast and revitalizer of Fogo Island, shares her vision for community-led economic growth in Canada. She emphasizes the importance of local knowledge and sustainable development in shaping resilient economies. Cobb highlights the challenges faced by rural communities, advocating for a national strategy that prioritizes place-based solutions. The conversation also explores the value of partnerships in workforce development and how economic benefits should stay within local areas to foster a thriving future.

Indigenous businesses are now being launched at up to nine times the rate of non-Indigenous businesses. In this episode of Futureproofing Canada, Jennifer is joined by Tabatha Bull, President and CEO of the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business, for a conversation about the growing momentum of Indigenous-led businesses in Canada. Together they talk about the unique challenges these businesses face, including barriers to capital, the impact of federal policies like the Indian Act, and the disproportionate effects of tariffs. Bull outlines how Canada can better support Indigenous business growth and economic reconciliation by removing systemic obstacles and making space for Indigenous leadership at every level of decision-making.

In this episode, Jennifer is joined by Natan Obed, President of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, for a wide-ranging conversation on Inuit self-determination, infrastructure, and Canada’s future in the Arctic. Originally from Nunatsiavut, Obed has become one of the leading voices advocating for Inuit rights and equity within Canadian society. He shares his journey from studying at Tufts University to leading national efforts for policy change, and highlights the urgent need for infrastructure investments, from deep-water ports to clean energy projects. With a focus on practical solutions and long-term collaboration, he calls for Canada to move beyond symbolic gestures and into an era of respectful, results-driven partnership with Inuit communities.

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