Bringing Diverse Voices to the Table: London Chamber Hosts Small Business & Industry Roundtable with Provincial Leaders

From business competitiveness and agricultural sustainability to Indigenous economic development and workforce readiness, local stakeholders shared their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities shaping London’s economy.

The strength of a local economy depends not only on the businesses that drive it, but also on the conversations, partnerships and policies that help those businesses thrive.

On Tuesday, November 10, 2026, the London Chamber of Commerce hosted a Small Business & Industry Roundtable with Marit Stiles, Leader of the Ontario New Democratic Party, alongside MPP Terence Kernaghan (London North Centre), MPP Peggy Sattler (London West), and MPP Teresa J. Armstrong (London—Fanshawe).

The roundtable brought together local business owners, industry and labour representatives, agricultural stakeholders, members of the business community and student representatives for an open and constructive discussion about the issues affecting businesses and communities across London and the surrounding region.

The conversation provided an opportunity for participants to share firsthand experiences, identify barriers to growth and explore opportunities for collaboration with provincial decision-makers.

Strengthening Business Competitiveness and Economic Resilience

A central theme throughout the discussion was the importance of creating an environment where businesses can remain competitive, adapt to economic pressures and plan confidently for the future.
Participants raised concerns about operating costs, access to resources and the broader economic conditions affecting businesses across different sectors.

Small businesses described tariff pressures, work-permit difficulties and barriers to accessing relief. The Chamber outlined its proposed Tariff Response Service, designed to help smaller firms navigate available assistance and diversify supply chains, and invited provincial representatives to help secure support for the initiative.
The conversation also highlighted the interconnected nature of economic and social challenges, including the importance of ensuring that communities have access to the essential services and supports that contribute to a healthy workforce and thriving business environment.

The Chamber also introduced its Civic Renewal Partnership, connecting nation building with downtown revitalisation and community well-being. In response, Marit Stiles outlined the NDP’s proposal for a new deal for municipalities, including a stronger provincial role in housing and community services.

Supporting Agriculture and Ontario’s Food Economy

Representatives from the agricultural community shared perspectives on the challenges facing Ontario’s farmers, particularly rising production costs, international competitiveness and the need for greater domestic food-processing capacity.

Participants highlighted Soutwestern Ontario’s significant agricultural strengths and the opportunities to retain more economic value within the province by expanding local processing infrastructure.

The discussion also explored the importance of agricultural education and reconnecting younger generations with food production, practical skills and career opportunities in the sector.

These perspectives reinforced the value of including agricultural stakeholders in broader conversations about economic development, trade and long-term competitiveness.

Marit Stiles agreed that agriculture needs a stronger voice in tariff-response and nation-building discussions, including efforts to strengthen domestic food-processing capacity.

Advancing Indigenous Economic Opportunities

Indigenous economic development was another important area of discussion.

Drawing on insights from the Chamber’s Indigenous Advisory Circle, participants highlighted opportunities to strengthen business relationships with First Nations communities, expand procurement opportunities and support sustainable Indigenous entrepreneurship.

The conversation also explored how access to essential infrastructure, including clean water, can influence economic participation, business development and community well-being.

These contributions underscored the importance of meaningful partnerships, sustained engagement and ensuring Indigenous perspectives are represented in economic development discussions.

Investing in Skills, Education and the Future Workforce

Participants also discussed the role of education and practical skills development in preparing the next generation for a changing economy.

From agricultural literacy and food preparation to skilled trades and hands-on learning, the discussion highlighted opportunities to strengthen connections between education, industry and workforce needs.

The presence and contributions of representatives from Western University’s student community added an important perspective to conversations about the future workforce and economic opportunities for young people.

Creating Space for Constructive Dialogue

While participants brought different experiences, priorities and perspectives to the table, the roundtable demonstrated the value of bringing stakeholders together to exchange ideas and engage directly with decision-makers.

The London Chamber of Commerce extends its appreciation to Marit Stiles, MPP Terence Kernaghan, MPP Peggy Sattler and MPP Teresa J. Armstrong for participating in the discussion and engaging with members of London’s business and community sectors.

We also thank the business owners, industry and agricultural representatives, labour stakeholders, members of our Indigenous Advisory Circle, Western University student representatives and everyone who contributed their time, experiences and perspectives.

We look forward to continuing these important conversations.