Iqaluit Ministerial meeting 2015© Denis Drever Photography Happy Birthday, Arctic Economic Council! May 12, 2025Народы Арктики The Arctic Economic Council celebrated its 10th anniversary Article by: Mads Qvist Frederiksen, Arctic Economic Council Ten years have passed since Arctic Council Ministers established the Arctic Economic Council to increase responsible economic development for the benefit of the people of the Arctic. Mads Qvist Frederiksen, Director of the Arctic Economic Council Secretariat, reflects on a decade of Arctic economic cooperation and the way forward. In September 2024, the Arctic Economic Council (AEC) marked its 10th anniversary—a significant milestone for an organization born out of the Arctic Council Ministerial meeting in Iqaluit. Over the past decade, the AEC has steadfastly represented the voices of the Arctic business community. With members spanning small business owners, SMEs, multinational corporations, and business organizations, both within and beyond the Arctic, the AEC has successfully brought the private sector together in navigating the region's unique challenges. Today, the AEC is recognized as a key partner in several national Arctic strategies—a testament to its tireless advocacy, global networking through dedicated working groups and consistent presence at international forums. This recognition reflects years of commitment to fostering sustainable economic development while amplifying Arctic perspectives on the global stage. A cornerstone of the AEC’s mission has been its efforts to collaborate with Indigenous Peoples’ organizations, youth initiatives and the scientific community. These partnerships underscore the organizations belief in inclusive growth as essential to building resilient, thriving and prosperous Arctic communities. As the AEC looks toward the next decade, it remains steadfast in its goal of advancing sustainable economic opportunities that benefit both people and the environment. Realizing this vision will require robust partnerships and collaborative efforts. The AEC invites individuals and organizations who share a passion for shaping the Arctic’s future to join forces in creating a vibrant and thriving region. While the world has changed significantly since that historic day in Nunavut a decade ago, one truth endures: the best way to predict the future is to create it. Together, we can ensure the Arctic remains a dynamic place to live, work and call home.