Thunder Bay CEDC Launches “Thunder Bay Forward” — A New Strategic Plan to Drive Growth Through 2030
Press Release
January 14, 2026 — The Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission (CEDC) Board of Directors is pleased to announce the launch of Thunder Bay Forward: Building Our Growth Story, a new five-year strategic action plan that sets a clear direction for growing and diversifying the local economy from 2026 to 2030.
The plan outlines a coordinated approach to attract investment, support business growth, grow population, and strengthen Thunder Bay’s profile as a place to live, work, invest, and visit. Anchored in three strategic pillars, Business, Community, and Tourism, Thunder Bay Forward builds on the Phase 1 Economic Growth Assessment and aligns closely with the City of Thunder Bay’s Growth Taskforce and Smart Growth Action Plan.
“Thunder Bay Forward is about telling a clear, confident growth story and backing it up with action,” said Jamie Taylor, CEO of the Thunder Bay CEDC. “By focusing on investment attraction, workforce development, placemaking, and year-round tourism, this plan positions Thunder Bay to remain competitive and drive economic growth.”
A strong commitment to economic reconciliation is embedded throughout the plan, with a focus on building meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities, supporting Indigenous businesses, and ensuring Indigenous voices help shape economic development initiatives.
Through the Business pillar, the plan targets investment and growth in key sectors including mining and critical minerals, forestry and the bioeconomy, logistics, and value-added manufacturing, while supporting entrepreneurship, business expansion, and supply chain development.
The Community pillar prioritizes population growth by strengthening workforce opportunities, welcoming new residents, advancing place branding, and supporting the economic and social infrastructure needed to sustain growth. This includes collaboration on waterfront development, revitalization initiatives, and data-driven decision-making.
The Tourism pillar aims to position Thunder Bay as a four-season destination and Canada’s premier outdoor city, with a focus on destination development, culinary and agritourism, sport and business events, and expanded national and international marketing.
“Thunder Bay Forward is about collaboration, accountability, and long-term impact,” said Roger Souckey, Board Chair, Thunder Bay CEDC. “As a Board, we are committed to ensuring this plan delivers meaningful results by guiding strategic investments, advancing business opportunities, and strengthening our community. By working alongside the City, Indigenous partners, businesses, and community stakeholders, we are positioning Thunder Bay for sustainable growth and shared prosperity.”
The full Thunder Bay Forward: Building Our Growth Story (2026–2030) plan is available here: https://gotothunderbay.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/CEDC-Strat-Plan_2026-2030_Web-1.pdf
IBF4
