Future of Lab West Summit
From February 26th-28th, 2024, the Labrador West Chamber of Commerce hosted The Future of Labrador West Summit - a landmark event that brought together government, industry, business leaders, Indigenous organizations, and community stakeholders to address the opportunities and challenges shaping the region's future.
The Summit
The 2024 Future of Lab West Summit took place from Feb 26-28 2024, at the Wabush Hotel.
Over three days, participants explored six key themes critical to Labrador West's long-term prosperity: Energy, Housing, Healthcare, Mining, Labour, and Transportation. Through keynote presentations from government and subject matter experts, roundtable discussions, and collaborative dialogue, the Summit examined the barriers limiting growth and identified opportunities to unlock the region's full economic potential.
The Labrador West Chamber of Commerce partnered with the Town of Labrador City and Rio Tinto IOC, and received funding support from Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology for the event.
Impact
Community engagement was central to the process. Prior to the Summit, the Chamber hosted a public consultation to gather residents' perspectives and identify local priorities. Following the Summit, a second public session was held in June 2024 to share the findings, review the recommendations, and continue the conversation on next steps.
While it is difficult to attribute individual projects or policy decisions directly to the Summit, its impact is evident in the momentum it created. By bringing key decision-makers together in one room, the Summit strengthened relationships, sparked new conversations, and helped move important issues from discussion toward action. Some initiatives have already progressed, while others remain ongoing, but the collaborative foundation established during the Summit continues to inform advocacy and regional development efforts.
The Labrador West Chamber of Commerce extends its sincere thanks to our funding partners, sponsors, speakers, delegates, volunteers, and community members whose support made this initiative possible. Together, you helped create an event that continues to influence the future of Labrador West.
Missed the Summit?
Catch up by watching online and viewing our photo gallery.
