Unlock the Earth’s Wealth – We’ll Help Fund the Key
Date/Time: Tuesday, November 4 | Unlock the Earth’s Wealth – We’ll Help Fund the Key
Location: Centennial Room
The presentation titled “Unlock the Earth’s Wealth – We’ll Help Fund the Key”, outlines the evolution, impact, and strategic direction of the Manitoba Mineral Development Fund (MMDF). Funded by the Province of Manitoba and administered by the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, the program was launched in 2019 with a $20 million investment. The MMDF aims to stimulate mineral exploration, foster Indigenous partnerships, and drive sustainable economic growth in northern Manitoba. As of 2025, the fund has supported 118 projects, leveraged $132 million, and created over 900 jobs.
Key achievements include funding for critical mineral exploration, Indigenous-led initiatives, and infrastructure development. Notable projects involve companies like Rockcliff Metals, Alamos Gold, and Canadian Gold, with strong emphasis on community engagement and environmental responsibility. MMDF has also co-funded initiatives with PrairiesCan to enhance Indigenous participation in the mineral sector.
The fund operates through multiple annual intakes and prioritizes inclusion, sustainability, and regional empowerment. It complements federal tax incentives and serves as a replicable model for resource development. MMDF’s transition from a pandemic-era stimulus to a strategic development tool underscores its role in Manitoba’s low-carbon future and economic reconciliation.
Speakers
Chuck Davidson, President & CEO of the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce
Since 2013, Chuck Davidson has been the President & CEO of the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce (MCC), the largest business advocacy organization in the province, representing 64 local Chamber of Commerce and nearly 10,000 organizations throughout Manitoba. Under his leadership, MCC has seen a renewed focus on policy and advocacy as the Voice of Business in Manitoba and has been recognized as an accredited Chamber of Commerce with distinction for the past 15 years.
Chuck is a tireless community booster and a passionate champion of economic development in Manitoba. He currently co-chairs the Rural Manitoba Economic Development Corporation and the Manitoba Mineral Development Fund; is a Board member of the Community Economic Development Fund and serves as co-chair of Travel Manitoba’s Provincial Tourism strategy. In addition, he is currently Chair of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce Accreditation Council and past-President of the Chamber of Commerce Group Insurance Plan.
Edward Suzuki, Program Manager at the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce
Edward Suzuki is a Program Manager leading the Manitoba Mineral Development Fund (MMDF) at the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce. With a master’s in city planning from the University of Manitoba and a bachelor’s in urban studies from the University of Winnipeg, Edward combines academic insight with hands-on experience in mineral exploration and economic development. He has overseen diverse projects across Manitoba, focusing on strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and sustainable growth. At MMDF, he evaluates applications, allocates resources, and monitors project progress, working closely with exploration companies, government bodies, and development organizations. Outside of work, Edward enjoys biking, hiking, photography, and exploring Canada’s natural landscapes.
Chair: Rihard Trudeau, CCMEC Chair
Richard Trudeau has had a four-decade long career in the mining industry,
having recently retired from Hudbay Minerals in the role of Director of Health,
Safety and Aboriginal and External Affairs and Director Human Resources,
Indigenous and External Affairs.
Richard is also the past president of MAMI and a long-time Mine Rescue co-chair. He cares about the long-term sustainability of mining in the province and believes in the need for more “boots on the ground” and easy access for exploration companies to explore and find that next mine.
Richard remains heavily involved in the industry, currently serving at the chair of CCMEC 2025.