From March 3 to 6, 2024, the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) conference in Toronto once served as a nexus for the global mineral exploration and development community. Among the attendees were representatives from the Manitoba Mineral Development Fund (MMDF), who brought with them a message of commitment to sustainable mineral development and economic growth. 

PDAC, renowned as the industry’s largest mineral exploration and development conference, attracted over 27,000 attendees from around the world, including 1,100 exhibitors and 700 speakers. This year’s event held particular significance for Manitoba, as it provided an ideal platform to showcase the province’s rich mineral potential and ongoing efforts to foster responsible resource extraction. 

At the heart of the conference were key engagements, including the Manitoba Reception, where the Honourable Minister Jamie Moses underscored Manitoba’s status as a hub for critical minerals. With 29 of these minerals identified within its borders, Manitoba stands poised to capitalize on significant economic opportunities. Emphasizing the province’s commitment to inclusive growth, Minister Moses highlighted initiatives aimed at creating employment opportunities, particularly among Indigenous communities in northern Manitoba. 

Premier Wab Kinew’s address at the Economic Club of Canada further underscored Manitoba’s appeal as an investment destination. His impassioned narrative celebrated the resilience and ingenuity of Manitobans, weaving tales of past achievements and future aspirations. Premier Kinew’s message resonated with potential investors, emphasizing the human capital that underpins Manitoba’s economic landscape. 

The Investors Exchange and Trade Show provided a dynamic platform for engagement with exploration and mining companies, many of which were supported by MMDF. Representatives seized the opportunity to gain insights into ongoing projects, exchange ideas, and address challenges facing the industry. Among the companies present were Core Nickel, Critical Discoveries, Foremost Lithium, Exiro Minerals, Willeson Metals, and Alamos Gold, reflecting the diverse spectrum of mineral interests within Manitoba. 

The PDAC 2024 conference served as a reaffirmation of Manitoba’s commitment to fostering a competitive, responsible, and sustainable mineral sector. By leveraging its abundant mineral resources and investing in community-driven initiatives, Manitoba, led by the premier of the province, is poised to play a pivotal role in driving economic growth and prosperity. As the global demand for critical minerals continues to escalate, Manitoba stands ready to seize the opportunities that lie ahead, guided by a vision of inclusive and sustainable development.