Island First Nations are expanding economic activities in traditional and non-traditional industries. They are becoming lead economic players, driving wealth creation and employment for their members while contributing to the economic vitality of local communities. Leaders from three First Nation development corporations – Huu-ay-aht, Snuneymuxw, and Malahat – will share stories of where they are headed, what’s working, and what’s needed for business success and economic vitality.

Join Trever Cootes, Ian Simpson and Angela van den Hout for this important conversation at the ‘State of the Island’ Economic Summit.

Thanks to Island Coastal Economic Trust for sponsoring this session.

The 15th annual ‘State of the Island’ Economic Summit starts tomorrow, with the bonus TECHNOLOGY SHOWCASE – Stories of Digital Innovation session at 3:00pm!

This digital Summit offers much more than your standard Zoom call. The Virtual Attendee Hub is now open for registered attendees. Delegates can start networking in advance. So, familiarize yourself with the platform and start making appointments!

You will have access to the comprehensive list of delegates to send direct messages; make 1:1 appointments; engage exhibitors/sponsors; check profiles; download the documents, enter contests, participate in polls, etc…

The Summit agenda is packed with compelling content with direct relevance to our Island economy. Join the conversation and help shape the future…

What are the top economic opportunities for Vancouver Island in the energy transition? Canada, BC, and Vancouver Island need to position their economies in the 21st global green economy. This talk will present results from Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions (PICS)’ research on the top economic opportunities in Canada with key lessons for Vancouver Island about how to support and build those opportunities with collaborative, strategic action.

Join the ‘Seizing Economic Opportunities in Energy Transition’ session at the Summit to hear from Dr. Bentley B. Allan, Associate Director of PICS.

Dr. Allan has expertise in the relationship between science, technology, and politics, the history of climate policy, and the political economy of decarbonization. He is the author of an award-winning book with Cambridge University Press and a number of peer-reviewed articles in the top journals in his field.

Moderator: Bruce Williams, CEO, Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce.

Thank you FortisBC for sponsoring this session.