Futureproofing Canada

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

What is “mission-driven” government, and can it work in Canada by IRPP

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.

Canada’s Cities Are Doing Too Much With Too Little — Here’s Why That Matters by IRPP

Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, is an important industrial centre best known for its steel industry. But that industry is currently being threatened by the tariffs on steel and aluminium announced by the Trump administration. Our guest today is Matthew Shoemaker, Mayor of Sault Ste. Marie. Mayor Shoemaker is lobbying hard across the border to change a situation he can't make any sense of, but he also has ideas for what Canadian governments can do to help the city weather the storm and come out even stronger. Together we discuss the challenges posed by U.S. tariffs and global trade tensions. He outlines a vision for the city’s future that includes transitioning to greener steel production, expanding immigration to address labour needs, investing in infrastructure and greater support from federal and provincial partners.

In our first episode, Jennifer is joined by Ranj Pillai, Premier of Yukon, for a conversation about what it means to build economic resilience in the North. Premier Pillai speaks about Yukon’s response to global tensions and economic uncertainty, emphasizing infrastructure investment to support major investments in critical mineral projects. He underscores the importance of long-term planning, strong partnerships with Indigenous peoples and maintaining Arctic sovereignty. And, with Yukon’s economy performing well, he also highlights the creation of the Canadian Institute for Arctic Security to counter foreign interference and strengthen defence in the North.

This week, we’re once again brining you the audio from one of our most recent event. This time it’s from a webinar on Canada-U.S. relations that we held on March 5, 2025. The second Trump administration is turning into an unsettling roller-coaster ride, and Canadians can’t seem to get off. Every day seems to bring a new set of goalposts, demands and threats. In this webinar moderated by IRPP president and CEO Jennifer Ditchburn, IRPP Board members Jean Charest, Janice Charette, Ian Brodie and Christopher Sands unpacked the challenges facing Canadian governments in these tumultuous times and discussed what it will take to build economic and social resilience for the long haul. A video version of the event is also available on our website at irpp.org