Read full article in the Feb/Mar 2026 Douglas Magazine
Has there ever been a more crucial time for islanders to connect?
Through connection we find common purpose, shared goals and new ideas, and form the relationships that get real things done during challenging times — and right now, collaboration is not a nice-to-have but a competitive advantage.
It’s why the Vancouver Island Economic Alliance (VIEA) exists. The member-based non-profit organization works at a regional scale, connecting Vancouver Island and the rural islands and allowing local priorities to inform the conversations that keep economic development grounded in place and relationships. Entering its 20th year, VIEA continues to respond to the churn of change while staying anchored in its core purpose: building connection, confidence, and capacity across the Island.
At the heart of VIEA’s visibility is the State of the Island Economic Summit, also celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2026, October 21-23. The Summit has become the region’s most trusted forum for business leaders, entrepreneurs, Indigenous leadership, elected officials, and community builders. With roughly 600 participants each year, it is the place where conversations lead to real projects, partnerships, and policy momentum long after the event concludes.
Beyond the Summit, VIEA convenes and connects year-round through a focused suite of initiatives. Island Good, VIEA’s social enterprise, champions locally made products, strengthens procurement pathways, and offers expanded membership opportunities for partners. In 2026, Island Good enters its next phase with Coastal Community Credit Union as its presenting sponsor and Array Creative as a continued partner for brand development.
VIEA also leads the Economic Dashboard in partnership with MNP, providing accessible, region-wide economic data to support informed decision-making across sectors. Looking further ahead, VIEA convenes longer-term dialogue through Vision 2050, delivered in partnership with Wirk Consulting, to explore what a resilient, inclusive, and thriving Vancouver Island economy could look like over the next 25 years, while staying grounded in today’s urgent realities around productivity, housing, labour, reconciliation, and climate resilience.
Balancing immediate pressures with generational planning is central to VIEA’s vision, and here is your invitation to be part of it: Become a member, participate in the State of the Island Economic Summit and celebrate 20 years of working together this October, and engage with fellow members, partners, and regional leaders through VIEA Member Receptions taking place in communities across Vancouver Island this spring.
