Canada 360 Summit 2024: Navigating Economic Challenges and Embracing Change

On June 6, 2024, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce hosted the Canada 360 Summit, an annual event bringing together industry leaders and experts to address pressing economic challenges and uncover new opportunities within the Canadian business landscape. 

The summit, featuring insightful panel discussions and keynote presentations, offered a comprehensive view of the economic context, emerging technologies, and sustainability initiatives shaping Canada’s future. 

Here’s a quick recap of the sessions:

1. The Macroeconomic Context

Distinguished economists Frances Donald from Manulife Investment Management and Stephen Tapp from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce discussed global and Canadian economic trends, risks, and opportunities. Frances Donald highlighted global economic trends and financial market developments, while Stephen Tapp focused on Canada’s economic outlook, including slowing consumer spending, the battle to tame inflation, and monetary policy normalization.

2. Canadians’ Economic Perceptions and Anxieties

Renowned pollster Nik Nanos kicked off the session on Canadians’ economic perceptions and anxieties by sharing key insights from recent public opinion surveys. The discussion then transitioned to Kevin Carmichael, Economics Columnist & Editor-at-Large at The Logic, and Rachel Samson, Vice President of Research at the Institute for Research on Public Policy, who reacted to Nanos’s findings and discussed the broader implications for government policy and business strategies. 

3. Interview with a Canadian Business Leader: Todd Winterhalt

Todd Winterhalt, Senior Vice President of International Markets & Head of Communications & Public Affairs at EDC, shared his insights on the international business environment and Canada’s role in it, in a brief interview session with the Canadian Chamber’s President and CEO, Perrin Beatty.

4. The Future of Cities

Richard Florida, Professor of Economic Analysis & Policy at the Rotman School of Management and Distinguished Scholar-in-Residence at the School of Cities, University of Toronto, delivered a thought-provoking keynote presentation on the future of cities. He explored how the pandemic changed the way we work, how public spaces will evolve, and what’s required to rebuild cities, including the role businesses need to play. Laura Miller, Director of Public Policy & Communications at Uber, joined the discussion to share her take on the role of the gig economy in the future of cities, the evolving nature of urban life and the significant role of businesses in shaping the future.

5. Canada’s Role & Opportunities in Managing the Global Net-Zero Energy Transition 

A panel of industry leaders, including Francis Bradley from Electricity Canada, Jon Mitchell from Suncor, and Johanne Senécal from CAPP, discussed Canada’s current energy landscape, the role of renewable energy sources, innovative technologies, policy frameworks, and international collaboration. The conversation highlighted how Canada can position itself as a leader in the global effort to achieve net-zero emissions while unlocking new economic opportunities and ensuring a sustainable future.

6. Interview with a Canadian Business Leader: Neil Pakey

Neil Pakey, President & CEO of Nieuport Aviation, shared his insights on the aviation industry’s challenges and opportunities in the context of Canada’s economic landscape, in with an interview session with the Canadian Chamber’s President and CEO, Perrin Beatty.

7. Artificial Intelligence: The Potential for Productivity Gains Across Canadian Business 

This panel explored the potential for productivity gains across Canadian businesses through the responsible use of AI. Panellists included Nicole Foster from Amazon Web Services (AWS), Bhushan Ivaturi from Enbridge, and Sam Ramadori from BrainBox AI. The discussion focused on the transformative force of AI, emphasizing the importance of leveraging it responsibly to stay competitive in today’s rapidly evolving landscape.

8. Interview with a Canadian Business Leader: Ehren Cory

Ehren Cory, CEO of the Canada Infrastructure Bank, shared his perspectives with the Canadian Chamber’s President and CEO, Perrin Beatty on the critical role of infrastructure in supporting economic growth and resilience.

9. Resilient Supply Chains: A Key Driver of Economic Growth

The final panel of the day addressed the role of resilient supply chains in driving economic growth and stability. Panellists included Eric Harvey from CN, Shri Madiwal from the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, and Karen Mazurkewich from Greater Toronto Airport Authority. The discussion shed light on the challenges and opportunities in building strong and reliable supply chains that can withstand disruptions, ultimately contributing to economic prosperity in Canada.

---

The Canada 360 Summit 2024 provided valuable insights and actionable strategies for businesses and policymakers to navigate economic challenges, embrace technological advancements, and drive sustainable growth. 

To stay updated on future events and initiatives:

Thank You to Our Sponsors