News Release:
VIEA’s 16th annual Economic Summit kicks off on Wednesday, October 26 at the VI Conference Centre in Nanaimo with a networking forum with opportunity to meet with representatives from the new federal agency PacifiCan, Mexican Trade Delegation, Export Development Canada, Island Coastal Economic Trust, Pacific Seaweed Industry Association, and more.
“Engagement amongst decision-makers often leads to business development opportunities and is considered a high value at the Summit. This year we have grown the focus on innovation and technology in our program while also expanding opportunities for one-to-one conversations on specific topics. Whether its trade and investment opportunities with Mexican business owners; finding government support for your projects; or considering business opportunities associated with the burgeoning seaweed industry; 8:30-10:30am, October 26 will present an array of opportunity to explore…” – George Hanson, Senior Advisor and former VIEA President
In addition to four keynote presentations focused on World and BC economy, Canadian demographic trends, and critical themes emerging from VIEA’s 2022 Economic Report, there will be twenty concurrent sessions organized in thematic streams such as Food Production, Climate Solutions, Health Care, etc., and a tradeshow with 40+ exhibitors, plus much of the food and beverage served will be Island Good (locally produced).
The Economic Summit brings 600+ decision-makers together from Victoria to Port Hardy for grassroots problem solving and opportunity pursuit.
The ‘Net’ Effect of Industry Change – Finfish aquaculture has been mandated to improve industry practices. What will advances in technology and modernized operations mean in rural coastal communities and Indigenous economies? What business opportunities will be associated with these changes?
Our Forests, Our Climate – The world’s forests are identified as critical to helping stem deterioration of the Earth’s atmosphere. As we deal with the continuing threat of forest fires throughout the Pacific Northwest, how are our forests and watersheds to be managed to mitigate danger, environmental and economic losses?
Island Agriculture and the Future of Food – We all say we need more local food production. But what are we doing to facilitate investment and attract agri-food industries? Hear what food entrepreneurs envision and about the challenges they have overcome. Hear what actions industry experts recommend to improve prospects for increased food production.
Other presentations include Low Carbon Entreprenuers, Mental Health & Addictions with Minister Malcolmson and United Way Director, Signy Madden, the BC Economic Plan with Minister Osborne, Doughnut Economy revisited with Co-founder, Carlota Ruiz, and much more.
“When I accepted a new executive position on the Island a number of years ago, I was encouraged to attend VIEA’s Economic Summit. I’ve attended many conferences over the course of my career and I thought ‘Oh Boy, an economic conference in Nanaimo! Lucky me!’ Well, it was the best event I had ever attended! I’ve returned every year since and along the way I became Chair of VIEA’s Economic Report Committee. 8th edition to be released at the Summit” – Pip White, Cedar Arch Consulting
The 16th annual ‘State of the Island’ Economic Summit is 8:30am to 10:30pm, Wednesday, October 26 and 7:30am to 2:00pm, Thursday, October 27. Join us – a brighter future by working together.
