MBiz | Winter 2025

The Voice of Manitoba Business

WINTER 2025, VOL. 27

THE VOICE OF MANITOBA BUSINESS

THE AI ADVANTAGE New tools. Real results. Manitoba perspective.

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THE VOICE OF MANITOBA BUSINESS

WINTER 2025, VOL. 27 MANITOBA CHAMBERS

OF COMMERCE jointhechamber.ca President and CEO Chuck Davidson Vice-President, Policy and Government Relations Elisabeth Saftiuk Director of Business Development and Member Relations Brent Hutton Director of Marketing and Communications Clara Buelow Program Director Kay Gardiner

CHUCK DAVIDSON President and CEO Manitoba Chambers of Commerce

CHARTING MANITOBA’S COURSE TO GROWTH AND PRODUCTIVITY IN THE AI ERA

W hen business leaders talk about artificial intelligence, their reactions range from excitement to uncertainty. One thing is clear: AI is here, and it’s already reshaping how we work, trade and compete in the global economy. AI is often described as the biggest shift of our time. But at its core, it is a tool — much like the steam engine or the internet in their early days. Its impact depends on how we choose to use it. For Manitoba businesses, that means seeing AI not as a threat but as a chance to boost productivity and sharpen our competitive edge. AI opens doors to new ways of working. But progress comes with responsibility. Beyond questions of ethics and security, we face challenges of talent, infrastructure and technological sovereignty. Rising to these challenges will determine how fully Manitoba can seize the future. This issue of MBiz explores AI’s impact across industries. From agriculture to finance to global trade, Manitoba businesses are already using AI to compete, boost productivity and reach markets faster. At the same time, important questions around regulation, intellectual property and workforce skills remain front and centre. Through the government’s Innovation and Productivity

Task Force, where our marketing and communications director Clara Buelow represents the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce (MCC), we’re helping ensure that business voices are heard as our province lays the foundation for a future where innovation and responsibility go hand in hand. The MCC will continue to play its role — advocating for businesses at the policy table and delivering practical tools through our chamber network. With the provincial government’s $2-million investment, MCC, in partnership with The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce and the chamber network, is bringing AI training and resources directly to small- and medium-sized enterprises across Manitoba, helping them build confidence and capacity in this fast-changing landscape. AI is powerful, but it is people who shape the future. By combining innovation with responsibility and productivity with purpose, Manitoba can move forward with confidence. The MCC will be there every step of the way to ensure businesses across this province are ready. ■

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winnipegfreepress.com President and CEO Mike Power VP, Revenue and Business Development Michele Prysazniuk Director, FP Features Charlene Adam Editor Jennifer McFee Creative Steve Hatch, Creative Services Manager Shakar Hagiev, Tammy Mitchell, Karen Spence, Ken Waterman Advertising Myles O’Reilly, Sales Manager Amy Anders, Nelson De La Cruz, Joel d'Eschambault, Rebecca Fitzpatrick, Gustavo Luy, Sydnee Pham, Rob Waite For advertising inquiries, please call 204-697-7390. © 2025 Manitoba Chambers of Commerce All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of the publisher. Disclaimer The opinions expressed by the authors, advertisers and/or editorial sources contained in MBiz magazine are those of the respective parties and do not necessarily represent the opinion of the publisher. MBiz magazine is published on Treaty 1 territory and the homeland of the Métis Nation.

Cover: tonstock - stock.adobe.com

3 WINTER 2025

The Manitoba Chambers of Commerce 2025-2026 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Tilda Fortier, Director Owner and Business Manager Greenstone Building Products Josh Girman, Director Manager, Indigenous Relations PCL Constructors Canada Inc. Michele Hazell, Director Executive Director Manitoba Start Stacy Kennedy, Director Head of Manitoba Operations Vale Tessa Masi, Director Executive Director Steinbach Chamber of Commerce Sachit Mehra, Director Owner and Manager East India Company Pub & Eatery Matt Pilloud CPA, CA, Director Partner MNP LLP

Chris Avery, Director Chief Executive Officer Arctic Gateway Group Nick Bockstael, Director Co-President Bockstael Construction Tracy Dandeneau, Director Director, Recruitment Operations People First HR Services Jamie Dumont, Director Principal Chadwick Consulting James Fehr, Director Vice-President, Commercial Financial Services RBC Royal Bank Michelle Finley, Director Director, Government Relations Wawanesa Mutual Insurance

Beverlie Stuart, Board Chair Vice-President, Business Development and Community Initiatives Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology Karly McRae, Vice-Chair Owner and President Lakehouse Properties Vince Barletta, Vice-Chair President and CEO Harvest Manitoba Mike Boucher, Treasurer Partner Deloitte LLP Michelle Kuly, Secretary President Blueprint Inc. Josh Bokhaut, Legal Counsel Partner Pitblado LLP

From Winnipeg to rural Manitoba, our board represents the diversity of the province’s business community. These leaders bring fresh ideas, deep expertise and a shared commitment to driving growth, innovation and opportunity across Manitoba. “The Chambers' core strength is bringing Manitoba’s business community together, whether that’s shaping provincial policy or helping businesses grow, and that’s the impact I’m proud to champion as board chair,” says Beverlie Stuart, board chair.

JOIN THE NETWORK THAT POWERS MANITOBA

ELEVATE your brand awareness and credibility in the business community INVEST in the success of your company and access a wealth of perks and benefits AMPLIFY your voice on policy matters that impact your business EXPAND your network of business and industry leaders across Manitoba

The Manitoba Chambers of Commerce is dedicated to championing the companies, organizations and people that make this province a great place to work and live. We unite a network of 65 local chambers and nearly 10,000 member organizations, focusing on provincial issues while local chambers bridge the gap, connecting us to business needs at every corner of the province. If you’re a member of your local chamber of commerce, you already know the power of the network. Expand your reach and join your provincial chamber. JOINTHECHAMBER.CA

WINTER 2025

FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE:

AI is already in your business. Are you leading it? 16

22 More power,

Canada's productivity paradox: Can AI help close the gap?

AI explained: Generative, predictive and agentic

more possibility: Manitoba's green future

Working smarter: Innovation and Productivity Task Force 40

28 A brave new digital world: Advice on

The need for speed: AI and trade

businesses adopting AI

Also in this issue:

Manitoba Chambers of Commerce in action 6 Manitoba birdseed business continues to soar 11 Navigating the unknowns of AI 24 WeMB: Empowering women+ entrepreneurs 32

Rural Municipality of Ritchot

37 38 45

PCL celebrates 60 years in Manitoba

Sio Silica: Manitoba's moment

5 WINTER 2025

MANITOBA CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE IN ACTION

2025 Future Champions T en extraordinary businesses and individuals whose creativity, commitment and leadership strengthen Manitoba’s economy and social fabric were recognized. Whether through entrepreneurship, community engagement or forward-thinking leadership, these Champions embody the belief that Manitoba is the best place to live, work and thrive. Businesses: • QDoc Inc. (Winnipeg) • Lynn & Liana Designs (Steinbach) • Friesens Corporation (Altona) • Southport Aerospace Centre (Portage la Prairie) • La Brasserie Nonsuch Brewing Co. (Winnipeg) • Valley Fiber Ltd. (Winkler) • Sperling Industries (Sperling) Individuals: • Pamela Kolochuk – CEO, Peak of the Market (Winnipeg) • Derek Earl – Chair, Biz for Climate (Winnipeg) • Marcel Kringe – Founder & CEO, Bushel Plus (Brandon) O n Manitoba Day 2025, the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce proudly celebrated the outstanding leaders, businesses and visionaries shaping our province through the Manitoba Champions Awards. From emerging innovators to long-standing business leaders, the Manitoba Champions Awards celebrated excellence. Award winners demonstrate the entrepreneurial drive, collaborative spirit and community-minded leadership that define our province. The program consisted of two distinct honours: the Future Champions Awards, recognizing innovators of today and tomorrow, and the Lieutenant Governor Awards for Outstanding Contribution to the Community, celebrating enduring excellence and leadership. Celebrating Manitoba’s Business Champions

Awards on display at the Manitoba Champions Awards ceremony.

Award recipients take the stage at the Manitoba Champions Awards, celebrating excellence in business and community leadership across the province.

PHOTOS BY IAN MCCAUSLAND

WINTER 2025

Lieutenant Governor Awards for Outstanding Contribution to the Community I n partnership with the lieutenant-governor of Manitoba, these awards honoured a business and an individual whose exceptional achievements reflect vision, integrity, entrepreneurial spirit and a deep commitment to community. 2025 Recipients Business: Payworks Canada A proudly Manitoba-founded success story, Payworks has grown into a national leader in HR, payroll and workforce management while maintaining an unwavering commitment to community investment and philanthropy. Individual: Doug Stephen, President of WOW! Hospitality Concepts Inc. With more than four decades of impact on Manitoba’s dining and hospitality industry, Doug Stephen has built beloved institutions, created opportuni- ties for hundreds of Manitobans and supported countless local organizations.

Beverlie Stuart, chair, Manitoba Chambers of Commerce board of directors, and vice-president, business development and community initiatives, MITT; Michael Penman, president, Payworks Canada; Anita Neville, lieutenant-governor of Manitoba; Doug Stephen, president, WOW! Hospitality Concepts Inc.; and Chuck Davidson, president and CEO, Manitoba Chambers of Commerce. PHOTO COURTESY OF GOVERNMENT HOUSE / DOUGLAS LITTLE PHOTOGRAPHY

Nominations for the 2026 Manitoba Champions Awards are now open!

Celebrate Manitoba’s champions by nominating a business or leader for the 2026 Manitoba Champions Awards. Visit mbchamber.mb.ca to submit your nomination. For sponsorship opportunities, contact Brent Hutton, director of business development and member relations, at bhutton@mbchamber.mb.ca

7 WINTER 2025

CANADA’S PRODUCTIVITY PARADOX: Can AI help close the gap?

BY ELISABETH SAFTIUK, VICE-PRESIDENT OF POLICY AND GOVERNMENT RELATIONS, MANITOBA CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE

C anada has a productivity problem. For the same issue: we’re simply not producing as much value for every hour worked. The question is, what are we going to do about it? Productivity is about efficiency. It reflects how effectively an economy transforms its inputs — like capital investment, a supportive business environment and skilled people — into outputs such as goods, services and, ultimately, income. And at the heart of every productivity story is Manitobans, that reality hits close to home. Slower wage growth, fewer career pathways and less competitive businesses all stem from people. Productivity is powered by workforce — by the tools, technology and systems that help individuals perform at their best. It’s not an abstract metric; it’s a reflection of how effectively our skills, effort and creativity are being put to work. When productivity grows, wages and living standards can rise without longer hours or higher costs. When it stalls, as it has in Canada, businesses lose competitiveness, families feel

the strain, and the economy as a whole falls behind. Productivity is the engine of economic growth, and people are the fuel that powers it. Investments in education, skills development and workplace health enhance an individual’s ability to contribute productively to their organization. When replicated across industries and communities, these gains compound — strengthening Canada’s economy and securing long-term prosperity. Canada’s productivity challenge Fifty years ago, Canada’s productivity outpaced that of the United States. Today, according to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), we lag the U.S. by 28 per cent. Despite being one of the most educated populations in the G7, our productivity is stagnant. That’s Canada’s productivity paradox. We have exceptional talent, yet a persistent gap in productivity outcomes. The contrast is striking. In 2024, nearly two-thirds

WINTER 2025

CANADA'S PRODUCTIVITY PARADOX

Elisabeth Saftiuk

PHOTO BY IAN MCCAUSLAND

Generative AI: A turning point AI dominates headlines, think pieces and predictions about the future. It can feel hard to separate the noise from what matters most for businesses on the ground. The truth is that the hype ends where the workplace begins. Generative, predictive and agentic AI are already reshaping how work gets done. These tools can summarize documents, analyze large data sets, forecast trends and even support creative tasks like drafting reports or designing visuals. Used effectively, they hold the potential to reverse Canada’s long- standing decline in productivity. And the impact is measurable. An MIT study involving 453 university-educated professionals found that participants who used ChatGPT to help with tasks completed their work about 40 per cent faster. Similarly, Google estimates the average Canadian worker could save 100 hours a year by adopting these technologies. And, yet, Canada lags. We are a global leader in AI research but slow to put it into practice. Closing this gap will take more than innovation on paper. It will require investment, adoption and action from both businesses and government. A coordinated approach is key. If we succeed, AI can become a catalyst for higher productivity, greater competitiveness and stronger economic growth across the country.

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of Canadians aged 25 to 64 held a post-secondary credential — the highest rate among G7 countries and well above the OECD average of 41 per cent. But despite this strong foundation of education, Canada’s productivity growth has not only failed to keep pace, it has worsened over the past decade, as RBC research makes clear. The Canada West Foundation points to a critical driver of Canada’s productivity gap: slow adoption of innovation. The Productivity Project — a collaboration of experts from academia, industry and policy — finds that Canadian firms have been hesitant to embrace new technologies and advanced digital tools, placing Canada 15th among 20 peer countries in innovation performance. These factors highlight the urgency of addressing Canada’s productivity challenge, not as an abstract policy debate but as a practical barrier to competitiveness and prosperity.

9 WINTER 2025

CANADA'S PRODUCTIVITY PARADOX

If we succeed, AI can become a catalyst for higher productivity, greater competitiveness and stronger growth across the country.

Why Manitobans should care For business owners, productivity isn’t a theoretical number. It’s about competitiveness, profitability and growth. Higher productivity means you can pay workers more, invest in new products and compete globally. For families, it means stronger wages, more career pathways and a higher standard of living. Put simply: if productivity doesn’t improve, local businesses will face higher costs and lose ground to global competitors. For workers, it will show up as slower wage growth, limited upward mobility and less economic security. How the Manitoba Chambers is responding Slow national adoption of AI creates an opportunity for Manitoba to lead. With support from the provincial government, the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, in partnership with The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce, and the chamber network, has launched Manitoba AI Pathways (MAP) to address this challenge. The program will deliver AI training to local chambers of commerce and SMEs across the province. The training is designed to help chambers and businesses put AI tools to work in their daily operations. The aim is to reduce the knowledge gap, encourage adoption and build a foundation for Manitoba’s long-term productivity growth. It’s not the full solution, but it is a practical step in the right direction, helping Manitoba businesses grow, compete and build long-term success. From challenge to opportunity Canada’s productivity problem didn’t appear overnight, and it won’t be solved overnight. But by investing in people, embracing innovation and fostering practical adoption of tools like AI, we can build an economy that works smarter, competes harder and secures a brighter future for all Manitobans. ■

WINTER 2025

WORLD TRADE CENTRE WINNIPEG

MANITOBA BIRDSEED BUSINESS CONTINUES TO SOAR

Owners Farrukh Zain and Abdul Azeem Farooqi

in an employer-matched retirement plan that includes contributions to RRSPs and TFSAs. Thanks to the Canadian government’s international trade support through the Trade Commissioner Service, Agri-Tel Grain has set its sights on international markets. The company is signing distribution agreements in the Indo-Pacific region and the Middle East, while also identifying products to bring over to Canada that could help grow local cottage industries like horticulture. Looking ahead, Agri-Tel Grain plans to develop an AI- enabled website and add a new pressed seed production line. They’re also expanding their warehouse and production area capacity, and they’ve invested in new machinery to optimize their entire packaging process. All of this drives job creation and boosts local economic activity. Along the way, the World Trade Centre Winnipeg played a pivotal role in Agri-Tel’s journey by providing deep market intelligence, personalized trade advisory and strategic connections across the global export ecosystem. WTC Winnipeg helped the company identify new opportunities, reduce market entry risks and build a smarter path to international growth by working directly with their team and their hired consultant. Last but not least, Export Development Canada has also been instrumental in providing strategic advice fuelling the company’s growth. Learn more about Agri-Tel Grain at agritelgrain.com and World Trade Centre Winnipeg at wtcwinnipeg.com. ■ Along the way, the World Trade Centre Winnipeg played a pivotal role in Agri-Tel’s journey by providing deep market intelligence, personalized trade advisory and strategic connections.

C ustomers from near and far continue to flock towards a Manitoba business that specializes in premium birdseed and animal feed. A proudly homegrown business delivering world-class products and services, Agri-Tel Grain launched in 1978 with a three-pronged focus on bulk grain, mixed seeds and pressed seeds. When new owners took over the Beausejour-based business in 2017, they decided to move away from bulk sales to focus on the two other aspects, working vigorously to develop new markets. The pressed seed proved to be a niche product that offered the biggest opportunity. Over time, Agri-Tel Grain became one of the largest producers in North America and established capacity of two million pieces per year, which is expected to double by the middle of 2026 through a new production line. Agri-Tel Grain products are sold at national retailers like Walmart, Canadian Tire, Loblaws, many pet stores and Amazon. They’re also the sole supplier of wild birdseed to Costco west of Manitoba — and the Premium Song birdseed has been sold at Costco for the last two decades. Beyond wild birdseed, the company has expanded its offerings to include feed for pet birds and farm animals like poultry, cattle and horses. They take pride in using natural ingredients, with homegrown grain sourced right from the Prairies. Adding to the appeal, the company guarantees a shelf life of 18 to 24 months for its pressed seed products, which are created through a semi-automated process. Amid many successes, the company faces the challenge of recruiting and retaining the best possible workforce in a rural setting. To overcome that hurdle, they offer a robust benefits package to their 30-plus employees. In addition to health coverage, workers can participate BY JENNIFER MCFEE

11 WINTER 2025

AI EXPLAINED: Generative, Predictive and Agentic AI for Business

W hen most people hear “AI,” they picture robots or ChatGPT spitting out essays. The truth is a lot less dramatic and a lot more useful. At its core, AI is a toolbox of mathematical models that help businesses work faster, smarter and with less waste. The challenge is knowing which type of AI solves which problem. Three categories are shaping how companies get things done today: generative AI, predictive AI and agentic AI. Each does something different, and confusing them is where businesses waste money, frustrate teams and lose trust in technology. Generative AI: Creating at scale Generative AI is what everyone recognizes. It drafts emails, builds marketing visuals, writes code or produces product descriptions in seconds. Under the hood, tools like large language models (LLMs), diffusion models or generative adversarial networks (GANs) learn patterns from huge datasets and create something new that fits those patterns. In business, generative AI works when you need to create text, images or even synthetic data quickly and at scale. A food manufacturer can use it to auto-draft compliance reports from raw data. A retailer can spin up personalized ad copy for hundreds of products without needing extra staff. The productivity gain is clear: less time on repetitive work and more time on decisions that matter. But generative AI is not a silver bullet. Left on its own, it invents information and misses context. It only performs well if you feed it structured, accurate inputs. Think of it as an accelerator, not an autonomous decision-maker. Predictive AI: Seeing what’s next If generative AI creates, then predictive AI forecasts. It looks at historical data, finds patterns and uses those patterns to predict what is likely to happen next. Manufacturers use predictive AI to spot material shortages before they hit production, recommending substitutions that keep operations running. Call BY TRACY GROMNISKI, CHIEF PRODUCT OFFICER, MODE40

PHOTO BY CHANTELLE DION

Tracy Gromniski

centres use it to forecast peak demand and schedule staff effectively. Finance teams use it to flag anomalies before they turn into fraud. The strength of predictive AI is foresight. It gives leaders a chance to prevent problems before they happen. Done right, it saves time, costs and reputation. The limitation is data quality. If your systems are siloed or your naming conventions are inconsistent, the predictions will not be accurate. Garbage in, garbage out still applies. Agentic AI: Getting work done This is the next frontier: agentic AI. Where generative creates and predictive forecasts, agentic acts. These are systems that plan, decide and execute tasks autonomously, often coordinating across multiple systems. Think of a digital operations manager. It notices a production line drifting off target, recalculates the schedule and pushes the update across planning, supply chain and quality systems without a human

WINTER 2025

AI EXPLAINED

AI is not futuristic; it’s functional. When you match the right type of AI to the right business problem, it does more than make you productive — it makes you competitive. The businesses seeing real returns are not chasing hype. They are starting smart — standardizing their data, making it accessible and embedding AI into workflows without slowing people down. AI is not futuristic; it’s functional. When you match the right type of AI to the right business problem, it does more than make you productive — it makes you competitive. And in today’s economy, that advantage is the difference between leading and falling behind. ■

needing to click a button. Or a customer service agent that not only drafts responses but resolves cases, updates the CRM and closes the loop. Agentic AI relies on reinforcement learning, optimization algorithms and multi-agent collaboration. When applied correctly, it shifts AI from an advice-giver to a task-doer. For businesses wrestling with labour shortages or complex growth, this is where competitive advantage lies. The risk is letting it run without clarity or oversight. Agentic AI is powerful, but without governance it can optimize for the wrong outcome. Guardrails and human accountability matter more than ever. The bottom line Generative, predictive and agentic AI are not just buzzwords. They are distinct tools for distinct jobs. Generative accelerates content and documentation. Predictive spots what is coming next. Agentic gets the work done across systems. Used together, they reduce waste, lower burnout and unlock growth.

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15 WINTER 2025

AI IS ALREADY IN YOUR BUSINESS. A RE YOU LEADING IT?

I f your business hasn’t started implementing AI, you’re already falling behind. And chances are, your employees are using it with or without your knowledge. While fears of AI replacing humans in the workforce linger, businesses implementing AI into their everyday workflow are painting a picture of higher efficiency, improvement in performance, boosts in profit and advancement in their teams’ professional abilities. Teams using AI have reported higher job satisfaction, better stress management, more passion in their work and a better work-life balance, according to a 2023 Slack Workforce Lab Report. “Ultimately, the businesses that are not enhancing their workforce with AI are not going to be able to compete,” says Casey Wahl, senior AI product manager at Proscia and a founding board member of the Manitoba Association of AI Professionals. AI is revolutionizing the way people traditionally work, Wahl says, and the organizations embracing its use are seeing benefits. According to Wahl, businesses are seeing “massive gains” in cost-effectiveness and efficiency. Her message is clear: if you want to compete in the modern business climate, you have to adopt AI. Michelle Kuly, CEO of Blueprint Inc. and co-founder of Neralake, a Manitoba-based AI platform that simplifies strategic planning and execution, says she leaned into AI early on, recognizing it wasn’t just a new tool but a fundamental shift in how we think about work and get jobs done. Integrating AI into her own business BY ERIN DEBOOY

— often because leaders aren’t sure where to start or what a good policy should include,” Kuly says. “The biggest risk is pretending you can ignore AI. Employees are already using it, and without guidance, it creates serious data and security risks.” When putting an AI policy in place, Wahl typically recommends that legal representation and IT or tech operations meet to define what data can be shared and which tools are approved for sharing it, ensuring the organization’s data remains secure.

not only shaped a path for growth, Kuly says. It allowed them to share what they were learning with clients in a safe and non-intimidating way. “We believe strongly that we can use this tool for good,” Kuly says. “We can put policy around it that is ethical, transparent and manages risk. Our focus is on making sure AI supports people rather than replaces them.” Ready or not, both Wahl and Kuly stress the imperative for businesses to have an internal AI policy in place. ”People are already using AI informally, often without clear guidance or policy. This creates risk, as employees are experimenting without permission

Casey Wahl

WINTER 2025

AI IS ALREADY IN YOUR BUSINESS

“I find that when an organization doesn't have an internal AI policy, employees are nervous about whether they're going to break things or cross a line, so they're not comfortable with experimentation or innovation,” Wahl says. For many businesses, the challenge is deciding where to begin. Wahl suggests identifying some of the problems that exist in your day-to-day workflow and what tasks take up the most time — and then ask AI how to solve it. The key is starting simple. “It’s really important that the pilot is a small technology commitment,” Wahl says. “One tool with one high-quality data set.” “ Within our team, it's about using AI to support employees in learning and expanding their skills. That transformation has been phenomenal.”

— Michelle Kuly, CEO of Blueprint Inc. and co-founder of Neralake

Michelle Kuly

PHOTO BY DARCY FINLEY

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17 WINTER 2025

AI IS ALREADY IN YOUR BUSINESS

Wahl emphasizes that frontline employees should help shape pilots, since they know their workflows best. “Ultimately, the employees become co-creators of the program and that allows for more organic growth, ensuring both adoption and that the actual implementation is effective,” Wahl says. But efficiency is just one part of the AI story. It can also be a powerful tool for skill-building and professional development, Kuly adds. “Within our team, it’s about using AI to support employees in learning and expanding their skills. That transformation has been just phenomenal,” Kuly says. “We're seeing less fatigue, teams being able to get work done — teams feel like they have extra support. They're more engaged in the work, excited about learning and eager to build new skills.” It’s also important to set aside the necessary time for teams to come together in person to learn and experiment with AI, Wahl says. “I always say that integrating AI into your business should be as hands-on as possible,” Wahl says. “One- on-one meetings or even a weekly drop-in session can be valuable, especially if that time is used to share pilots and discuss what people are trying. That creates

Implementing AI in a workplace is no different than any sort of change, Kuly notes, but in order to see success, leadership must model the right behaviour. “Leaders can’t take the view that ‘AI is for everyone but not for me.’ It sends the wrong message,” Kuly says. “Adopting AI is about building a new way of working together. To understand its value and manage risks, leaders need to lean in, experiment and learn alongside their teams.” ■ The Neralake team includes Benoit Theriault, sales and finance lead; James Froese, lead software developer; Michelle Kuly, co-founder; Matt Dirks, co-founder and managing partner; and Justin Band, intelligence and full stack developer.

a culture of learning and improvement.” And that culture has to start at the top.

WINTER 2025

SAFEGUARD THE ARCTIC AND BUILD THE ECONOMY

Most people see changing sea ice. BISONS SEE CANADA’S FUTURE. As Hudson Bay grows increasingly ice-free, northern communities face new risks—and new possibilities. A longer shipping season could transform Manitoba into a maritime province, reducing costs for remote communities and opening Prairie resources to the world. At the Churchill Marine Observatory, Dr. Feiyue Wang is leading a groundbreaking initiative with Indigenous partners to guide this transformation. His team is developing tools to guard against environmental hazards and protect fragile ecosystems while securing Canada’s place in the next era of global trade.

19 WINTER 2025

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YOUR HEART… RIGHT PLACE

Travel Manitoba’s new campaign aims to reintroduce locals and visitors alike to Manitoba’s world-class and iconic experiences after a challenging wildfire season.

With the theme “Travel with your heart in the right place, ” the campaign encourages visitors to choose local destinations and attractions across the province where their travel dollars make a difference. Tourism contributes $1.82 billion in visitor spending annually to Manitoba. The majority of tourism operators are small and medium-sized businesses, family-run lodges, local restaurants and seasonal attractions that employ over 25,000 Manitobans. Your Heart…Right Place welcomes back visitors and supports an industry that benefits us all.

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Manitoba’s green future depends on energy and AI will test it MORE POWER, MORE POSSIBILITY

Christa Rust

BY CHRISTA RUST, PROGRAM DIRECTOR, MANITOBA CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE

W hen people think about Manitoba energy, they think clean, green and abundant. That reputation has helped attract businesses and investment. But as electrification accelerates across buildings, transportation, agriculture and manufacturing — on top of the explosive growth of artificial intelligence and other energy-hungry sectors — the question is no longer whether Manitoba has clean energy; it is whether we will have enough to meet the demand. The economic stakes are clear. Manitoba Hydro has

warned it cannot accommodate future large industrial or technology customers without building significant new generation. That means jobs, investment and entire industries could pass us by if we do not move quickly. What was once a utility issue is now one of the biggest economic development challenges facing Manitoba today. And the quickest acceleration of demand? Artificial intelligence. From agriculture and finance to health care and logistics, AI is transforming industries here at home — and it runs on electricity. If Manitoba pursues AI innovation, part of that future could include local data centres, which are among the most energy-intensive facilities in the world. Traditional data centres typically draw five to 10 megawatts of power. By contrast, AI-driven facilities can exceed 100 megawatts, representing large, steady demand unlike anything Manitoba has hosted before. Having them here would mean significant investment and economic activity, but it would also increase the strain on our electrical grid. Even without AI data centres, the technology is accelerating electrification across sectors — from smart manufacturing to precision agriculture, which still results in higher demand for energy. In early 2025, the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce released Our Time Is Now: Manitoba’s Roadmap for a Green Economy . The report highlighted the urgency of clean energy development and the growing demand

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WINTER 2025

MANITOBA CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE IN ACTION

from residents and businesses drawn to Manitoba’s clean, affordable power. It also emphasized a simple truth: without reliable, cost-effective supply, energy- intensive sectors cannot grow. No single energy source will be enough. Hydro has anchored Manitoba’s clean energy advantage, but new projects are expensive and vulnerable to drought. Wind and solar offer strong potential but remain intermittent. Small modular reactors (SMRs) could deliver steady around-the-clock electricity, and Manitoba’s legacy in nuclear research makes us a credible candidate for development, but high costs, technology readiness and community acceptance mean SMRs are a longer-term option rather than an immediate fix. Efficiency matters too. The cheapest energy is the energy we don’t use, and expanded conservation programs can help manage demand while new supply comes online. Manitoba’s clean energy advantage is enviable, but it is not permanent. As businesses navigate an ever- changing landscape, clean energy has shifted from being a competitive edge to becoming an economic imperative. If we move boldly, we can position our province as a hub for industry, AI innovation and sustainable growth. If we wait, we risk watching opportunity flow elsewhere. ■

Green Economy Road Map

23 WINTER 2025

LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS OF AI

NAVIGATING THE UNKNOWNS OF AI IN YOUR BUSINESS

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A rtificial intelligence — friend or foe? can be both exciting and downright frightening. The hardest part may be knowing where to start and how to navigate this rapidly evolving space. “That’s where we can come in to help our clients understand what AI is and advise on how to mitigate the risks associated with it,” says Nicolas Joubert, a Winnipeg-based partner with MLT Aikins and member of the firm's leading technology, intellectual property and privacy practice. “We strongly encourage businesses to consider all aspects of an AI tool before diving in feet first, allowing decision makers to assess the pros and cons and, together with advisors like us, come up with risk mitigation strategies. We want to help businesses embrace technology in a way that reduces risk and maximizes the value for the business.” For those who own a business, whether big or small, incorporating AI (artificial intelligence) into day-to-day operations Reducing risk can be a challenge in this space, as while the potential of AI seems to be unlimited, to date it has still proven to be imperfect in many applications. But businesses can’t afford to wait if they want to compete in the modern economy — they have to find ways to manage the risk while still taking a chance on AI. “It’s critical for businesses to understand the rules of engagement — that is, what terms and conditions might apply to the use of a particular AI tool. Consideration needs to be given to the risk allocation among an AI provider and the customer, how the AI tool complies with privacy obligations and what options exist if something were to go wrong,” he says. “The more informed a business is about how this all works, the better they can leverage it within their business.” A thought leader in the AI space, MLT Aikins is also doubling down on their efforts to ensure that Manitoba businesses are informed about AI. By collaborating with the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce and the chamber network on Manitoba AI Pathways, the BY MICHELLE BAILEY

Nicolas Joubert, partner, MLT Aikins

firm recognizes the importance of helping small- and medium-sized enterprises enhance their productivity, competitiveness and growth by embracing innovation and boosting their AI capacity. “We want to be part of the future of Manitoba businesses,” Joubert says. “Our goal is to help clients understand exactly what it is they are getting into so that their AI journey is a success.” As AI technology continues to rapidly weave its way into everyday lives, Joubert says businesses need to embrace and understand the idea of it before — and not after —integrating it into their business. Joubert explains that business owners who gain professional advice and implement appropriate procedures have a better chance to strategically navigate how AI can align with their business model — and to discover how AI can be used to their advantage. “The fact is that AI, like many other technologies, is here to stay,” he says. “We want to help our clients to understand and get comfy with it so they can deploy it successfully.” ■

WINTER 2025

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WINTER 2025

Marilyn Crewe , Economic Development Officer, Neepawa, MB

Watching my community thrive demonstrates the hog sector’s commitment to rural Manitoba. Managing Global Uncertainty Farmers know a thing or two about uncertainty. It’s everywhere around them – from concerns about soil conditions for optimal crop yields, the health of their livestock and labour challenges to policy changes, global market pressures and climate change. Uncertainty, however, cannot limit forward momentum. Agriculture relies on a higher degree of predictability when it comes to providing food for the tables of both consumers here at home and around the world. Each year, Manitoba exports $9.3 billion worth of agricultural and food products worldwide – and for the hog sector, that

Manitoba’s hog sector contributes 22,000 jobs and $2.3 billion annually to the provincial GDP.

includes the United States, Japan, China, and many other countries. Predictability means a collaborative relationship with trading partners and a level playing field around the world, as well as a regulatory environment that promotes science-based approaches to raising livestock. Predictable Support for Our Communities Predictability is also vitally important here at home. Approximately 22,000 Manitobans, across both urban and rural communities, rely on the hog sector for well-paying jobs to support themselves and their families. That’s enough people to fill the Canada Life Centre and Blue Cross Park at the same time. All Manitobans rely on the economic contribution of the hog sector, which amounts to $2.3 billion each year, helping to fund key priorities like hospitals, highways, and schools. Statistics compiled by Economic Development Winnipeg show that Manitoba’s hog sector contributes more than twice as much as the aerospace sector to the province’s economy, trailing only the transportation, advanced manufacturing, and energy sectors in terms of economic impact. At the end of the day, we all face uncertainty – it’s part of life. What remains predictable and reliable is the commitment of Manitoba’s hog sector to continue supporting the growth of healthy and vibrant communities across the province, and to carry on delivering a safe, high-quality protein in Canada and globally.

Manitobans are employed in the hog sector , across careers in food processing, transportation, animal care, technology, environmental sciences, and various trades.

manitobapork.com/economy

A BRAVE NEW DIGITAL WORLD

A BRAVE NEW DIGITAL WORLD Local experts offer suggestions on how business should adopt AI

I t wasn’t long ago that most Canadian businesses were reluctant to embrace AI. The Canadian Study on Business Conditions conducted by Statistics Canada in spring 2023 showed only 6.1 per cent of businesses in this country made use of artificial intelligence in producing goods and delivery services during the previous year. Fast forward to spring 2024 and that number doubled to 12.2 per cent, an increase driven in large part by information and cultural industries (up 20.9 per cent), scientific and technical services (13.7 per cent), and finance and insurance (10.9 per cent). BY JIM TIMLICK

It’s a trend the vice-president of business development and community initiatives at the Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology expects to see continue and even pick up speed in this province, especially among businesses seeking to become more productive and competitive. “Today I would say every organization uses AI in at least one function. It’s become cross- sectoral,” Beverlie Stuart says. “It’s so important that businesses look to adopt AI. They cannot stand on the sidelines and watch. They need it to build capacity among their existing team but also to future-proof their skills. If they’re not adopting it, they’re not going to grow and they’re not going to remain competitive.” Kirsten Thompson, project manager and senior communications and marketing specialist with Manitoba Education Research and Learning Information Networks (MERLIN), agrees. That’s why Thompson thinks it’s so important for companies looking to adopt AI in their day- to-day operations to ensure their employees are digitally literate and have the skills needed to operate the latest devices and be able to analyze the information they produce. “Using a tool and understanding how it works and how it impacts

your day-to-day operation are two very different things and we still have some pretty large gaps in that area,” says Thompson, whose organization supports the use of technology to improve educational services in the province. “As a result, skill sets like critical thinking and problem solving within the digital sphere are increasingly essential.” Stuart says post-secondary institutions will play a critical role in providing the training needed for individuals to get up to speed in an ever-evolving workplace where AI is becoming increasingly commonplace. She’s already seen how AI is shaping some of the programming offered at MITT. “Because we engage with industry continually and they inform our programming, they’re telling us that we need to have this embedded in our curriculum because these are the skills that we’re looking for,” she says. “We’re trying to ensure that today’s learners are coming out with those skills so that they are ready for work.” Thompson says it’s too early to know what the impact of

Kirsten Thompson

AI has been in terms of job losses here in Manitoba. However, she believes that many

Continued on page 30

EMILI managing director Jacqueline Keena and Innovation Farms manager Leanne Koroscil beside an Agi3 Crop Sentry system, an AI-driven Internet of Things platform that provides 24-7 crop monitoring and analytics on Innovation Farms.

WINTER 2025

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29 WINTER 2025

A BRAVE NEW DIGITAL WORLD

conversations with, components of AI in that capacity have reduced stressors that would normally have contributed to burnout in the long- term,” Thompson says. It’s no exaggeration to say that AI has influenced virtually every sector of the economy, from financial services and health care to manufacturing and logistics. That said, few have felt its impact quite the way the agricultural industry here in Manitoba has, especially when it comes to production efficiency and data-driven decision-making.

are likely to emerge so they can be addressed proactively and more intensely. It’s hoped that it will mean producers will need to use less herbicide to deal with weeds that can have a significant impact on the yield and quality of a crop. Another AI-powered device being tested at EMILI’s Innovation Farms sites is a new crop sentry system designed by Winnipeg-based AGi3. The system looks like a typical weather station and collects data on conditions in the field that is then used to provide ongoing, real- time yield predictions. Producers

Beverlie Stuart

"I think AI is providing a good opportunity to increase efficiencies in how we farm here in Manitoba and across the whole agriculture industry." — Jacqueline Keena, managing director of EMILI

Jacqueline Keena is managing director of the Enterprise Machine Intelligence Learning Initiative (EMILI), a Manitoba-based non- profit dedicated to increasing the integration and adoption of intelligent technologies into the agriculture industry. Keena says AI is transforming the ag industry because it’s helping producers get to where they need to be more quickly than more traditional tools. “I think AI is providing a good opportunity to increase efficiencies in how we farm here in Manitoba and across the whole agriculture industry,” she explains. “It’s helping us get to data-driven insights and decision points faster than we might otherwise be able to as humans and we try to evaluate a bunch of different variables. We’re at an interesting place in history where we finally have a lot of data to train these various AI models on.” Keena points out two examples of AI that could potentially change the way we farm in this province. EMILI is currently working with a company called Geco Strategic Weed Management on a software system that uses AI algorithms to determine where herbicide-resistant weeds

could then use that information to determine if they’re on-track for a significant yield and if investing in additional nutrient or pesticide applications is warranted. Keena’s advice to producers who are considering incorporating AI into their farm operations is to take a measured approach. “Some of these solutions can provide some significant increases in productivity and efficiency of operation,” she says. “But some are early stage and they need to go through effective testing and validating procedures before we start rolling them out on their own farms.” As far as the business community as a whole, MITT’s Stuart recommends organizations look at the big picture in terms of how AI can mesh with their operations, starting small with administrative functions and building out from there. She also suggests companies focus on established AI products with licences such Microsoft’s Copilot, ChatGPT or Perplexity when they begin implementing AI rather than choosing free platforms that come with some inherent security risks. ■

Jacqueline Keena

companies that have incorporated AI into their business operations are going to need to re-imagine the roles and job descriptions of people on staff. “A strong leader, regardless of what their organization is, needs to understand the people they have working for them,” she says. “They should be able to help guide the transformation of specific roles so that the employees know exactly where the role of AI aligns best, how that task can be taken off their plate, where their individual human skill set is still irreplaceable and what that looks like now.” One of the benefits of incorporating AI into a workplace is that it can help reduce employee burnout by automating repetitive tasks and allowing staff to focus on higher-value and more creative tasks. That means that rather than simply adding more duties to an employee’s workload, employers can allow those individuals to focus on more human-centric tasks. “For me and people that I’ve had

WINTER 2025

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