3^rd Annual Northern Economic Development Gathering Confirmed!
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February 10^th - 12^th, 2026

Best Western Nor'Wester & Tournament Center | Thunder Bay, ON

^{Neeganii Iishawin, '}^{to lead to the Gathering place,}^{' has become a symbol of Indigenous economic empowerment and collaboration. Representing 34 communities' with five Tribal Council partners, Neeganii Iishawin began as a collective resolve to drive economic growth through strategic partnerships.

This pivotal platform facilitates the exchange of Indigenous capacity-building insights, education and training. It champions environmental stewardship and the creation of equitable opportunities in vital regional sectors —mining, forestry, energy, and infrastructure.

The Gathering has become a strategic event to unite the collective aspirations of Nations, businesses, industry sectors, and government bodies. The dialogue centred on building a collaborative framework to harness and amplify the Far North's economic potential .}
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Have your say & keep in touch!

We have a brief feedback form where you can select key session topics, share what event features are most important to you, and let us know if you'd like to be contacted for speaker or sponsor opportunities.

#NI2026 Pre-Event Survey

After two successful Gatherings, we are excited to welcome our communities, entrepreneurs, economic development leaders, and partners once again!

Join our hosts, the six partner organizations Windigo Community Development Corporation, Matawa First Nations, Keewaytinook Okimakanak, Shibogama First Nations Council, TKG Group and Independent First Nations Alliance in attending this highly anticipated Gathering focused on economic development, reconciliation and the promoting the inbuilt prosperity of Ontario’s north.

This Gathering will feature one of Northwestern Ontario’s premier business leaders, JP Gladu, as our Emcee to facilitate three incredible days of keynotes from eminent change-makers, networking opportunities and more as we, together, seek to build on the powerful foundation of First Nation business.