Can-Am Connect

Description

The Buffalo Niagara region has long served as one of North America's most important international trade gateways. Home to one of the busiest commercial border crossings between the United States and Canada, our bi-national region encompasses more than 8 million people and generates over $400 billion in annual gross domestic product. The success of businesses throughout Western New York and Southern Ontario depends on the strength, stability, and efficiency of this uniquely interconnected economic relationship.

Today, that relationship faces unprecedented challenges. Canadian-U.S. trade relations are experiencing significant strain as organizations navigate shifting federal priorities and increasing calls for economic diversification on both sides of the border.

The Buffalo Niagara Partnership's BNP Can-Am Connect has been created to help regional business leaders stay informed and prepared.

This forum will convene business community leaders and experts from both the United States and Canada for a comprehensive discussion on the current state and future of cross-border commerce.

Attendees will gain:

• The latest updates on U.S.-Canada tariff policies and trade negotiations
• Analysis of emerging cross-border trade and supply chain trends
• Economic outlooks impacting manufacturers, transportation, logistics, agriculture, energy, and professional services
• Practical guidance on managing uncertainty and mitigating business risk
• Perspectives from public- and private-sector leaders on the future of North American trade
• Opportunities to network with business leaders from both sides of the border and strengthen cross-border partnerships

Whether your organization depends directly on cross-border trade or is impacted by broader economic trends, BNP Can-Am Connect will provide the intelligence, relationships, and strategic insights needed to confidently navigate the evolving U.S.-Canada business landscape.

December 3, 2026

8:00–8:30 AM: Registration / Networking
8:30–11:00 AM: Program

Venue: Seneca Niagara Casino 

310 4th Street 

Niagara Falls, NY 14303

Cost: Free for BNP members
$20 for non-members

FEATURED SESSIONS & SPEAKERS

01  TARIFFS — STATE OF PLAY

Isabelle Icso  |  Vice President, International Trade Policy, U.S. Chamber of Commerce

An update on tariff developments, U.S.-Canada trade negotiations, and the implications of evolving federal trade policy for regional employers.

02  STRATEGIES TO WEATHER THE STORM

Moderator: Mark Frascatore  |  Dean, Holzschuh College of Business Administration, Niagara University

Panelists: Matt Hubacher  |  Senior Vice President, Invest Buffalo Niagara

Keith Bajor  |  Vice President of U.S. Customs, Welke

A practical discussion of business resilience, customs and trade compliance, investment decisions, and strategies to manage uncertainty.

03  STRENGTHENING CROSS-BORDER SUPPLY CHAINS

Ananth Iyer  |  Dean, School of Management, University at Buffalo

Kai-Yu Wang  |  Associate Dean, Brock University School of Business

Perspectives from both sides of the border on supply chain resilience, innovation, operational efficiency, and opportunities for stronger international collaboration.

Additional panelists to be announced shortly with a special focus on the legal and financial issues that impact businesses.  

Supporting Sponsor

Engagement Sponsor