CCMEC 2026 Sets New Records Across the Board
Winnipeg – The Central Canada Mineral Exploration Convention (CCMEC) has wrapped up its two-day event in Winnipeg, celebrating a record-breaking year with the largest trade show in convention history, plus more delegates and sponsors than ever before.
Since the Mining Association of Manitoba (MAMI) assumed management of the convention, the trade show has grown by over 42%, increasing from 147 booths in 2024, to 209 in 2026. Add in more than 1,200 registered delegates and an all-time high in sponsorships, and this year’s convention underscores CCMEC’s importance as a meeting place to share ideas driving mineral exploration forward in central Canada.
“But shaping the future of mineral exploration takes more than good ideas. It takes people coming together, sharing expertise, building partnerships and turning opportunities into action,” said Richard Trudeau, CCMEC 2026 Chair. “The record number of trade show booths, delegates and sponsorships demonstrates the value companies see in being part of this conversation. CCMEC provides a place for our industry to connect, tackle challenges and help deliver the impact that will move mineral exploration forward.”
Industry support remained a key part of the convention’s success, with more than 65 sponsorships. CCMEC extends its sincere appreciation to all involved, with special recognition to Hudbay Minerals for elevating its support to the newly created Au79Rush sponsorship category. Exiro Nickel, the province of Manitoba and Rodren Drilling also committed significant financial support.
“CCMEC was a great experience and a real success for Rodren Drilling,” said Denis Desrosiers, Rodren General Manager. “It was a valuable opportunity to strengthen industry relationships, exchange ideas, and connect with people who share our commitment to the growth of mining in Central Canada. Events like this remind us of the strength of our industry and the importance of being part of its future.”
Ecoreg Solutions is a newer exhibitor and is planning on becoming a MAMI member. “We recognize the value of MAMI and are looking forward to supporting its ongoing work, as well as helping to continue to make CCMEC such an amazing event in friendly Manitoba,” Helga Sonnenberg, Ecoreg Solutions CEO.
The technical program featured presentations from over 30 leading professionals on the challenges, opportunities and innovations shaping mineral exploration, plus two keynotes by Lana Eagle and Patrick Redmond. Beyond the conference sessions, attendees experienced a live mine rescue demonstration showcasing the teamwork and precision essential to mine safety, along with a cultural drumming performance by Co-Co Stevenson.
CCMEC continues to build on its foundation as a gathering place for central Canada’s mineral exploration community. This landmark year marks an important milestone as organizers work to strengthen the convention’s profile and long-term reach.
MAMI, in its third year of managing the convention, extends its sincere thanks to the sponsors, exhibitors, delegates, speakers, elder, government, speakers, organizing committee, vendors and volunteers whose time, commitment and collaboration made CCMEC 2026 possible.
Dates for 2027 will be released early in the new year.