Economic Engine: Nation Building

Nation Building: Charting Nova Scotia’s Role in Canada’s Economy

Charting Nova Scotia’s Role in Canada’s Economy comes at an exciting time as the new federal government lays out its plans for Canada’s economic future. For Nova Scotia, it’s a chance to attract investments, grow our economy, create new jobs, and show how the province can compete and lead on a national stage. At the Economic Engine, you’ll hear directly about these priorities, explore where Nova Scotia fits in the bigger picture, and leave with practical ideas on how to better position your business to stay ahead of the curve in Nova Scotia’s changing economy.

PROGRAM

The Halifax Chamber of Commerce's Setting the Stage segment delivers a sharp, data-driven snapshot of the Atlantic region’s economic landscape, highlighting the key trends, political dynamics, and social forces shaping the region today. Grounded in Narrative Research’s respected body of work, including the Atlantic Quarterly report, this segment offers evidence-based insights and a deep regional perspective to help inform and frame the discussions that follow. Margaret Chapman CAIPNarrative Research - COO & Partner Margaret is a co-owner of Narrative Research, and has worked as a consultant since 1999. She has worked with a wide range of private, public sector and not-for-profit organisations in Canada, the U.S. and in Bermuda. As a moderator she regularly conducts focus groups and facilitates engagement sessions and also has extensive experience in conducting quantitative research across a vast number of industries and topics. Margaret holds a BA from Simon Fraser University, and an MA from the University of Southern California. Margaret is a member of the Canadian Research Insights Council, and is a designated Certified Analytics and Insight Professional (CAIP). She currently co-chairs CRIC's AI Ethical Guidelines & Public Policy Advocacy Sub-Committee.

Economic Transformation in Atlantic Canada - Fireside Chat

The Atlantic Economic Panel, sponsored by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), and chaired by Don Mills, brings together seven experienced business leaders from across Atlantic Canada with a shared commitment to strengthening the region’s economy. The Panel focuses on identifying transformational opportunities to drive growth, enhance competitiveness, and ensure long-term prosperity for Atlantic Canadians. This Economic Engine event will host Panel Chair Don Mills, and panel member Joyce Carter, President, and CEO of the Halifax International Airport Authority, who will discuss the Panel’s objectives, its role in supporting Nova Scotia and the Atlantic economy, as well as key insights from a recently released Atlantic Canada Business Survey. Joyce Carter President and CEO of Halifax International Airport Authority Joyce Carter is President and CEO of Halifax International Airport Authority, a role she has held since 2014. Under her leadership, Halifax Stanfield’s economic and employment impact in Nova Scotia has grown significantly, with the airport now supporting over 24,000 jobs and generating more than $4 billion annually as a key driver of business, trade, and global connectivity. A strong advocate for economic development and transportation infrastructure, Carter actively participates in national and international aviation governance, serving on several regional and community boards that span transportation, tourism, and financial services. She was recently appointed to the Atlantic Economic Panel, where she contributes to regional strategies focused on long-term growth and competitiveness. She also serves as Honorary Colonel of 12 Wing Shearwater. Carter holds a Bachelor of Commerce from Saint Mary’s University, where she was recently awarded an honorary Doctor of Commerce. She is a Fellow Chartered Professional Accountant and holds an ICD.D designation. Her leadership has been recognized through numerous honours, including Atlantic Canada’s Top 50 CEOs, Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women, the Halifax Chamber of Commerce’s 2019 Business Leader of the Year Award, and the King Charles III Coronation Medal for her contributions to transportation and commerce.​ Don Mills Partner and Director at CABCO, Chair Atlantic Economic Panel Don Mills is currently the President of Crane Cove Holdings Limited, his family investment firm, a partner and Director with CABCO Communications, an IT infrastructure company and Total Marketing & Communications, a Bermuda based company he co-founded. He is the co-founder and former owner and CEO of Corporate Research Associates (now Narrative Research). He is a regular columnist with both the Saltwire Network and Brunswick News, as well as being a frequent media commentator on public affair issues. He is also the Co-host of the Insights Podcast on the Huddle Network. He is recognized as a public opinion expert by various judicial bodies and is a Certified Research Insights Professional. He was recognized as a Fellow in the market research industry in 2008 by the national association, the only Atlantic Canadian to be so recognized. He was chosen as Business Person of the Year in 2001 and as a runner up in 2007 by the Halifax Chamber of Commerce. He continues to be passionate about Atlantic Canada and an advocate for change in the region. More speakers to be announced