Growth Enterprise and Trade Minister Blaine Pedersen says northern economic development must be led by northerners.  Based on that five new members have been appointed to the Communities Economic Development Fund.  James Wilson of Opaskwayk Cree Nation has been named Chairperson.  He is Vice-President of corporate development for the Arctic Gateway Group. Members of the Board include Chuck Davidson of Winnipeg who is President of the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, Becky Cianflone of Flin Flon who is Executive Director of Community Futures Greenstone, Doug Lauvstad of The Pas who is President and Chancellor of University College of the North and Colleen Smook the Mayor of the City of Thompson.

The Boards mandate includes collaborating with the Manitoba Government and engaging with northern municipalities, Indigenous Communities, businesses, training providers and other stakeholders to advance initiatives that grow local companies and industries, create jobs, attract talent and investment and increase economic development in northern Manitoba.