Provincial Government Invests More Than $1 Million in Labrador North Chamber of Commerce to Create Business Liaison Office

Press Release

April 10, 2025

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is investing more than $1 million to support the creation of a new Business Liaison Office led by the Labrador North Chamber of Commerce to advance workforce development and maximize local benefits from anticipated major projects in the region.

Through the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Labour Market Development Agreement, the funding will support the creation and operation of the Business Liaison Office over a three-year period. The office will serve as a link between local businesses, Indigenous groups, educational institutions and project stakeholders such as Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro and Hydro-Québec.

The Business Liaison Office, under the management of the Labrador North Chamber of Commerce and a Regional Task Force Committee, will focus on labour market development, training opportunities and engagement with community and industry stakeholders. The task force will include representatives from municipalities, Indigenous business, Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro and the Provincial Government.

The project supports the development of a community-based approach to address labour and employment challenges and opportunities while helping to prepare Labrador’s workforce and businesses for future economic growth.

This investment builds on the Provincial Government’s ongoing partnership with the Labrador North Chamber of Commerce on the Welcoming Communities initiative which is designed to support overall newcomer retention in the Labrador region.

On April 3, the Chamber launched North 1941: Central Labrador’s Magazine for Newcomers, a publication funded by the Department of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills, to help welcome and inform new residents to the region.

Quotes
“Kudos to the Labrador North Chamber of Commerce for leading this important initiative. The Business Liaison Office is an important step in supporting Labrador’s long-term economic growth. By bringing together businesses, Indigenous groups and educational institutions, this initiative will ensure communities can maximize new opportunities.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills

“I applaud the approval of more than $1 million in funding to establish a Business Liaison Office dedicated to preparing and supporting businesses in seizing the opportunities arising from the Churchill River hydro developments. By providing local businesses and prospective bidders with the resources, timely information and guidance to navigate emerging procurement opportunities, we are investing in the sustainable prosperity of our communities and the resilience of our economy.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister of Labrador Affairs
Minister of Environment and Climate Change

“As we look forward to the benefits the new Churchill Falls agreements will bring to Labrador, it is important that our Indigenous groups and community partners have support to prepare for the impacts and opportunities that will come. Our government is committed to building strong, respectful partnerships with Indigenous communities and ensuring meaningful investments that support their priorities.”
Honourable Dr. Scott Reid
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

“The idea for this Business Liaison Office was first envisaged by the LNCC at the start of the Muskrat Falls project. Thankfully, this government sees the need to support this link involving key organizations focused on business in Labrador. If the province is to be successful, Lake Melville and Labrador will need to be ready!”
Perry Trimper
Parliamentary Assistant to the Premier
Parliamentary Secretary for Veterans and Military Relations
Member of the House of Assembly for Lake Melville

“This project will have a significant positive impact on the regional labour market with a comprehensive community-driven strategy in partnership with regional stakeholders. As a region, it is vital we present our collective vision and expectations for responsible development, while ensuring improved outcomes and maximum benefits for Labradorians and Labrador-based businesses.”
Julianne Griffin
CEO of Labrador Chamber of Commerce

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