As the largest regional chamber of commerce in WNY, we bring approximately 4,500 people together each year via an unprecedented number of events, meetings, and workshops. Designed to facilitate networking opportunities, encourage business development, support professional development, and drive business advocacy, there is a BNP event for every member of your organization.Â
Can-Am Connect
Thursday, December 3, 2026 (8:00 AM - 11:00 AM) (EST)
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.
Supporting Sponsor
Engagement Sponsor
310 4th St
Niagara Falls, NY 14303 United States
Event Center
44
SHRM Credits
The Buffalo Niagara Partnership has officially been named an authorized Recertification Provider by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). With this certification, participants in our qualified educational trainings and other HR-related programming will now have the opportunity to receive Professional Development Credits (PDCs).