Atlantic Economic Panel
Bolder Ambitions
Atlantic Canada faces a pivotal moment to boost productivity and secure long-term prosperity. The region has an opportunity to foster a cultural shift, become a hub for innovation and investment and position itself as a place where future generations of businesses choose to grow and thrive locally.
On September 25, 2026, the Atlantic Economic Panel released its independent, private-sector-led report, Bolder Ambitions: Greater Prosperity for All.
The report sets out seven core recommendations and challenges the region to think bigger, work across boundaries and act as one economy.
- Take a One Atlantic Canada Approach to Regional Economic Issues
- Make Faster Project Decisions a Competitive Advantage
- Develop an Integrated Regional Electricity System
- Fully Develop the Region's Natural Resources
- Win the Competition for Talent
- Develop a Business Growth Mindset Driven by Productivity and AI
- Create an Atlantic Prosperity Fund
The report outlines calls to action for governments, businesses and other stakeholders to work together to advance these recommendations. Additional proposed actions are available in the full report.
About the Atlantic Economic Panel
Mandate
The Atlantic Economic Panel was tasked with identifying transformational opportunities and developing independent, action-oriented recommendations to accelerate productivity, strengthen competitiveness and improve long-term prosperity across Atlantic Canada.
Members
The panel consisted of seven prominent business leaders representing all four Atlantic provinces. Members contributed their expertise, networks and leadership to guide the panel’s recommendations and champion its vision.
The members
Consultation
The panel engaged businesses, economic development organizations, sector associations, community stakeholders, Indigenous organizations and underrepresented groups across Atlantic Canada. Its work included more than 50 written submissions, 35 in-person presentations, nearly 100 CEO conversations and public opinion research with 1,000 Atlantic Canadians and more than 400 businesses.
ACOA’s role
The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), mandated the panel’s work under the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency Act.
The panel operated independently from government, with ACOA providing only secretariat support.
Next steps
ACOA is reviewing the panel’s recommendations to inform federal efforts to increase productivity, help businesses scale, attract major investment and create new economic opportunities across Atlantic Canada.
The Atlantic Chamber of Commerce and Atlantic Economic Council are supporting continued engagement on the report’s recommendations through advocacy efforts and clear metrics.
Important links
- Atlantic Economic Panel (AEP) report: Bolder Ambitions: Greater Prosperity for All
- ACOA report news release: Atlantic Economic Panel unveils blueprint for Atlantic Canada’s future
- AEP report news release: Atlantic Economic Panel Calls on Region to Think Bigger, Scale Faster and Compete Globally
- Launch of the AEP news release: Minister Fraser launches major Atlantic growth push with top local business leaders
