TORONTO - Prime Minister Stephen Harper says he will consult with business leaders across Canada to discuss the economy in the year ahead.

Harper met with eight businesswomen in downtown Toronto on Saturday to kick off what he says will be a series of roundtable talks.

The prime minister says the meetings will focus on his government's top economic priorities and allow the business sector to voice ideas on how to boost the economy.

A release from Harper's office says Canadians will also have an opportunity to participate through online consultations.