The 18th Annual ‘State of the Island’ Economic Summit will take place on October 23 and 24 at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre in Nanaimo.

“It was a great experience to attend, network, and gain a lot of valuable insight into the Island economy and many of the triumphs, challenges, innovations, and opportunities occurring across the Island today. ” – 2023 Summit Attendee

Convene – Connect – Collaborate

Don’t Miss This Exclusive Event at the Summit: Hotel Pacifico Live!

Just days after the provincial election, join Mike McDonald, Kate Hammer, and Geoff Meggs—hosts of the popular Hotel Pacifico Podcast—as they discuss all things politics. This special episode, featuring a live Q&A, will be recorded during the Summit’s closing lunch.

About Hotel Pacifico:

Hotel Pacifico Your 5-star podcast destination for B.C. Politicos.

Looking for predictable party lines and all the same, same spin? Don’t ever come here, okay? But if you want a port in the political storm, a respite from the bullshit, an hour of honesty, insight and unspun west coast politics and policy, Hotel Pacifico is absolutely the place for you.

Explore the evolving economic landscape of northern Vancouver Island, a region marked by rugged beauty and undeveloped resources. This session will highlight potential opportunities for growth and outline the challenges of development in the region. Join us to understand the nuances of economic transition on the North Island and discuss strategies for fostering sustainable progress in this unique part of Vancouver Island.

Moderator

Pat English, Acting Manager of Economic Development, Mount Waddington Regional District

Panelists

Andrew Nixon, Business Development Manager, Kawatsi Economic Development Corporation
Mark Smith, Executive Director, Pacific Seaweed Industry Association
Natalie Stewart, Tourism Development Specialist, Vancouver Island North Tourism Association
Gaby Wickstrom, General Manager, ‘Na̱mg̱is Business Development Corporation

Stay tuned for more session features, as we have much more in the works!

Stay for the Vision 2050 Workshop

After the closing lunch at the Summit, don’t miss the Vision 2050 Workshop on October 24, 2024, from 2:30 to 5:30 pm. This workshop is more than just a discussion; it’s a collaborative effort to envision and co-create the future we desire for our region. Join this dynamic conversation that integrates diverse expertise, perspectives, and key drivers to propel us towards a sustainable and thriving future. Limited seating is available, so register for the Summit today and add on the Vision 2050 Workshop!

Training Discount for VI Economic Summit Attendees

BC Economic Development Association (BCEDA) is excited to host the first opportunity for BC Economic Development Professionals to earn credits towards the new CEDP.BC Certification! Immediately preceding the VIEA Economic Summit, BCEDA will host the Economic Development Leadership Learning Exchange in Nanaimo from October 20th to 22nd. Join them for an immersive three-day course designed to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge in economic development leadership. This comprehensive program will delve into a range of key economic development activities vital for fostering thriving communities, including:

Economic Development Marketing
Local Government & Indigenous Partnerships
Ethics
Tourism and Ec Dev
Strategic Planning
Statistics
Business Engagement
Entrepreneurship
Community Development

This course combines expert-led sessions, interactive workshops, and practical case studies to provide participants with actionable insights and strategies essential for effective economic development leadership. Whether you’re new to the field or a seasoned professional, this learning exchange promises to enrich your understanding and capabilities in driving economic prosperity and community well-being. VIEA Economic Summit attendees can save $50 on registration fees by using code VIEA. Click here for registration, accommodation and more info.

Still haven’t registered for the Summit? Attendees of the BCEDA Learning Exchange can take advantage of a special registration rate of $575.

Don’t miss out on securing your stay for the Summit! We have arranged special group rates for VIEA Summit delegates at the Best Western Dorchester Hotel, Coast Bastion Hotel, and Courtyard by Marriott Nanaimo. Be sure to mention you’re attending the VIEA Economic Summit when making your reservation. Here are the booking details:

Best Western Dorchester
Book online or call 250-754-6835 or 1-800-661-2449

Coast Bastion Hotel
Call 1-800-716-6199 and quote reference #CBI-GFC22745

Courtyard Marriott
Book online or call 250-824-2705

Please note that rooms are subject to availability, and the special rates are only available until September 22, 2024. Don’t delay—secure your accommodation today!

Thank You to Our Summit Sponsors!

Their support makes this event possible, and we couldn’t do it without them.

VIEA

Contact VIEA: