February 17, 2026 –The Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission (CEDC) is actively supporting the growth of the city’s defence sector, helping local businesses access new opportunities in federal procurement and international supply chains.

“We are actively exploring opportunities that position Thunder Bay companies to benefit from Canada’s growing defence sector,” said Jamie Taylor, CEO of the Thunder Bay CEDC. “Through strategic investment, collaboration, and business support, our goal is to strengthen the local economy and create long-term opportunities for our community.”

At the end of January, CEDC CEO Jamie Taylor hosted a panel discussion at Prosperity Northwest—Accessing Federal Government Procurement Opportunities: Defence and Beyond—showcasing how Thunder Bay’s service and supply companies can position themselves to win federal contracts and benefit from unprecedented investments in the defence sector.

Building on that momentum, CEDC’s Business Development team—Lucy Kwiaton, Business Development Manager, and Mike Barten, Senior Business Development Officer—toured the ACEs Facility with a FedNor defence sector specialist, joined by local companies and partners, including Michelle Salo, President of Confederation College. The visit strengthened collaboration and advanced key conversations across the sector.

Continuing these efforts, CEDC is hosting two online defence sector information sessions featuring Natalie Brabant, Strategic Initiatives Specialist with FedNor, to help local businesses explore available opportunities:

• ITB Policy: Learn how the Industrial and Technological Benefits policy can help your business access international supply chains.
• Resources and Tools for Understanding the Defence Sector: Discover what Canada is purchasing for defence, identify key contractors, and access essential resources.

Session Dates:

• February 18, 2026 – 8:30 AM – Register here
• March 11, 2026 – 8:30 AM – Register here

The Thunder Bay CEDC encourages business owners, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in learning more about opportunities in Canada’s growing defence sector to join these informative sessions.