2025 VIEA Economic Summit Recap

Over 550 business and community leaders came together at the 19th Annual Vancouver Island Economic Summit, held October 28–30 at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre in Nanaimo. Delegates explored new ideas, sparked meaningful connections, and celebrated what makes Vancouver Island such a vibrant place to live, work, and invest.

See what made this year’s Summit such a success – browse the full agenda and event photos here.

We hope you can join us for the 20th Annual ‘State of the Island ‘Economic Summit where we will celebrate the 20th anniversary!

Save the date: October 20, 21 & 22, 2026.

Add it to Your Google Calendar Now!

Summit Media Roundup

Island needs to grow alternative food systems
Island residents rely heavily on mainland food; industry leaders discussed strengthening local food production and sustainability.
‘Starting to crumble’: Vancouver Island economic report is a warning
Susan Mowbray highlighted critical economic pressures and the need for proactive decisions to sustain Island growth.
Snap election in B.C. would suit party leaders but not voters, pollster says
Shachi Kurl, Angus Reid Institute president shared insights on political timing and its economic implications for the Island.
Industrial land shortage challenging for Island companies
Summit panellists discussed the scarcity of industrial land and barriers companies face when trying to expand.
Vancouver Island businesses and the Parliamentary Secretary for Trade talk about diversifying markets amidst trade uncertainty
Panel focused on strategies for businesses to reduce risks from tariffs and expand into new markets.
Vancouver Island to host first live hologram showcase at economic summit
Technology-enabled keynote allowed global speakers to appear live via hologram, showcasing innovation and virtual collaboration.

Island Economy Snapshot

Key Takeaways from the 2025 State of the Island Report

The latest State of the Island Economic Report presentation from Economist Susan Mowbray, Partner in MNP‘s Consulting Group, at the VIEA Economic Summit shared valuable insights into where we stand and where we’re headed. Here are four highlights shaping Vancouver Island’s economic story:

Population: The Island has grown by more than one-third since 2001 to over 920,000 residents, but growth is slowing and the population is aging.
Economy: GDP growth is trending down, with the public sector expanding faster than the private sector. Tourism and professional services remain stable, while resource and construction sectors face uncertainty.
Business and Labour: Unemployment is rising and insolvencies are above pre-pandemic levels. With nearly 98,000 mostly small businesses, regional collaboration and coordinated investment are key to building resilience.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening housing, infrastructure, and innovation – alongside progress in AI, climate adaptation, and Indigenous reconciliation – will shape a more sustainable Island economy.

Drawing on these insights, VIEA will continue to collaborate with partners across Vancouver Island and the rural islands to drive action and strengthen our regional economy for the future.

View Susan’s presentation here.

Island Good Spotlight

Help Us Spread the Word – Island Good Discounts for New Members!

Know a local business that should be part of Island Good? Now’s the perfect time to tell them!

Businesses new to Island Good in the Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD), the City of Campbell River and the City of Port Alberni get 50% off their first-year licensing. Thanks to the CVRD, Community Futures Cowichan Region, and the Cities of Campbell River and Port Alberni for championing local businesses and supporting Island Good.

Also effective June 1, members of the following Chambers receive 25% off their Island Good membership thanks to reciprocal Chamber memberships: Alberni Valley, Ladysmith, Campbell River and District, Comox Valley, Duncan Cowichan, Gabriola Island Chamber of Commerce, Lake Cowichan, Parksville and District, Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce, Qualicum Chamber of Commerce and Sooke Region.

This applies to makers, growers, manufacturers, retailers, and restaurants offering local products.

Encourage them to sign up – we’ll apply the discount to their invoice! Let’s keep growing the Island Good movement together!

What’s Happening Across Our Member Network

Congratulations to the Port of Nanaimo – a valued Vancouver Island Economic Alliance member and recent Summit sponsor – on welcoming the first shipment of Isuzu Commercial Truck of Canada vehicles to the BC Vehicle Processing Centre (BCVPC).

This milestone highlights Nanaimo’s growing role as a vital gateway for Canadian automotive imports and a key player in the Pacific Northwest’s transportation and logistics network.

View full news release here.