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Agenda

October 22, 2024 10:00

Economic Reconciliation Workshop

Participants will explore the principles of economic reconciliation and learn strategies to support inclusive growth and mutual prosperity. Join Desiree Baker at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre, as she leads this inclusive workshop to support personal and professional reflections on the reconciliation process. 

In Partnership with the Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce.

October 22, 2024 13:00

Mindful Resilience Workshop

The Mindful Resilience Program has been guiding leaders, teams, and individuals through change and disruption for over 20 years. This experiential program includes completing an online Personal Resilience Profile to help participants identify strategies for maintaining personal effectiveness and explore mindfulness practices to strengthen resilience against personal and professional challenges. Join Terri Duguay at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre to learn how to exercise your resilience "muscles”.

In partnership with Maigus

October 22, 2024 13:30

Land Acknowledgment Workshop

Are you interested in understanding the value and importance of land acknowledgements as a part of your journey toward reconciliation? Do you want to honour the host Nation in a meaningful way? Would you like to understand the relevance of land acknowledgements? Join Indigenous Engagement Coordinator,  bailey macabre, at the Nanaimo Art Gallery for an introductory workshop about land acknowledgements. 

In partnership and hosted by Nanaimo Art Gallery, 150 Commercial Street - in the Art Lab Space, Nanaimo.

NEW! Pre-Summit Professional Development

Join us on the afternoon of Tuesday, October 22 for learning opportunities focused on leadership, resilience and economic reconciliation. Limited spaces are available so register early and choose to add-on one of these workshops to secure your spot.

October 23, 2024 08:30

Registration Opens

October 23, 2024 09:00

Spotlight Room - Speed Networking: Build Connections in Record Time

Sponsored by RBC

October 23, 2024 09:00

Spotlight Room - Lightning Talks: Fuelled by Passion

Georgia Lavender
Director of Program Operations, Synergy Foundation

Janel van Dongen
Founder, 100 Kids for Change Oceanside

Gil Yaron
Managing Director, Circular Innovation at Light House

Blaise Hunter
Author, Speaker, Consultant, Blaise the Trail inc.

Mansher Bhinder
Manager, Supply Chain and Network Operations Advisory Practice, Deloitte Canada

Sandy Gerber
Certified Communication Trainer & Professional Speaker, NEXT Impact Press

Sponsored by RBC

9:00 - 9:15 - Georgia Lavender 

Introducing VICE, the Vancouver Island-Coast Circular Ecosystem project.

Since inception, Synergy Foundation has focused on innovative projects and programs that have pushed the envelope, supported hundreds of businesses, and turned great ideas into action. Their newest VI-Coast based project, VICE, is working to further develop our local circular ecosystem through venture creation, circular transition training for existing businesses, and hub development. This multi-year program will support over 135 businesses and entrepreneurs in the region to enhance their environmental performance, attract investment, and create new green jobs utilizing circular strategies.

9:20 - 9:35 - Janel von Dongen, Youth Leadership

Be the Change

9:40 - 9:55 - Gil Yaron 

BMEx Program

Gil leads Light House’s work to support the transition to a circular economy in the built environment. Gil will present on the Building Material Exchange (BMEx) -- a new program on Vancouver Island that connects companies in the construction sector that have excess or unwanted building materials with companies that can use those resources in their operations.

10:00 - 10:15 - Blaise Hunter

Empowering Women: Bridging the Confidence Gap & Unlocking Economic Potential

Blaise Hunter, an advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, and a seasoned business strategist, will take the spotlight at the VIEA summit to address the deeper layers of gender disparity in business—beyond the well-known issue of pay gaps. Blaise will delve into the critical, yet often overlooked, challenges that many women face: building the confidence to negotiate effectively, using their voice assertively, and developing the skills to forge and leverage powerful professional relationships.

10:20 - 10:35 - Mansher Bhinder 

Vancouver Island Regional Supply Chain Study Overview

Deloitte and the Vancouver Island Economic Alliance (VIEA) have collaborated to conduct a regional supply chain study. VIEA's active engagement in regional supply chain discussions is focused on addressing the challenges encountered by local businesses in accessing and distributing products in local and international markets. This initiative is part of a broader effort to stimulate the regional economy, facilitate business expansion, and enhance competitiveness. The study's objective is to comprehensively analyze the existing supply chain landscape, identify areas of improvement, and provide actionable recommendations to transform Vancouver Island's supply chain, thereby supporting the growth and success of businesses in the region.

10:40 - 10:55 - Sandy Gerber

Magnetic Communication

Join Sandy Gerber, a renowned Communication Trainer, Professional Speaker, and award-winning Author, for a 15-minute lightning talk on Magnetic Communication. Unlock the secret to powerful connections and learn how to detect and send body language cues to connect better in your relationships at work and home. For 25 years Sandy revitalized communications for companies of all sizes, including many of Canada's most beloved brands. Known for her relatable and humourous delivery, Sandy’s enlightened thousands from the stage and has coached hundreds of people in effective communication across North America. 

October 23, 2024 09:00

Spotlight Room - Rising Stars: Businesses to Watch

Dorian Redden
Co-Founder, Holocene Distilling

Sherese Johnson
Interim Executive Director, Rural Islands Economic Partnership

Célia Auclair
Co-founder, Forest for Dinner

Brenda Patrick
Owner, Vancouver Island HeartBeatz

David Leverton
Co-Founder, ADDL Games & Red Brick Publishing

Sylvain Rollin
Executive Director, Wesco Foods

Landon Sheck
Co-founder, Aux Box

Amir Tabatabaei
ED, DELVI

Sponsored by RBC

A chance to connect with the entrepreneurs from the region; innovative, new and creative businesses.

October 23, 2024 09:00

Spotlight Room - Island Good

Kim Doney
Owner, Dirty Girl Soap Co. Ltd

Nilo Du Plessis
Owner, Antidote Distilling

EJ Jang
Owner, Eve Olive

Brenda Hetman-Craig
Owner, 40 Knots Vineyard and Estate Winery

Paul Gill
Owner, Sutra Sauces

Sue LaBerge
Owner, Millstone Artisan Gallery

Jim Moore
BC Coastal Grilling Planks

Lilia Rechon-Reguet
Owner, Islanders Fresh Authentic Mexican Sauce

Praveen Raj Ponraj
Sales and Marketing Consultant, Green Cuisine

Andrew Silver
Sales and Promotion, Thunderbird Spirit Water

Sponsored by RBC

Explore a diverse selection of Island Good businesses, each with a unique story to share. Get to know their products and the local impact they’re making on our economy and community.  

October 23, 2024 10:30

Explore Exhibits & Connect

Sponsored by DP World Canada

Meet with 35+ exhibitors while networking with delegates before the Opening Luncheon

October 23, 2024 12:00

Opening Lunch

Featuring a selection of locally sourced Island Good food!

October 23, 2024 12:45

Keynote - Susan Mowbray and Guests: Brodie Guy, Chief Councillor, John Jack and Aaron Stone

Susan Mowbray
Partner, Custom Research and Economic Insights, MNP's Consulting Group

Brodie Guy
Chief Executive Officer, Island Coastal Economic Trust

John Jack
Chief Councillor, Huu-ay-aht First Nations

Aaron Stone
CEO, South Island Prosperity Partnership (SIPP)

Sponsored by MNP

Linking to Vision 2050, Susan’s presentation at the Summit will explore themes outlined in the economic dashboard, providing insights into how these factors will shape future economic landscapes.

October 23, 2024 13:30

Tourism: Balancing Footprint and Impact through Cost-Benefit Analysis

Brian Cant - Moderator
President, 4TVI

Tyson ?ikaatius Atleo
Operator, Ahous Adventures

Mayor Vickey Brown
The Village of Cumberland

Chatman Shaw
Corporate Services Manager, Indigenous Tourism BC

Brian White
Professor Tourism & Hospitality Management, Royal Roads University

Sponsored by Tourism Nanaimo

Explore the balance between tourism's economic benefits and its environmental and social impacts. Learn about cost-benefit analysis techniques for evaluating sustainable tourism development. Join experts to discuss strategies for maximizing economic gains while minimizing negative effects on destinations and communities.

October 23, 2024 13:30

Indigenous Forestry & Strategic Partnerships

Shannon Janzen - Moderator
Owner, Hypha Consulting

John Jack
Chief Councillor, Huu-ay-aht First Nations

Seanna McConnell
Vice President, Indigenous Partnerships, Western Forest Products

Christopher Roberts
Chief, Wei Wai Kum First Nation

Sponsored by SW Event Technology

Explore how Indigenous communities are shaping the future of forestry through innovative partnerships and long-term strategic collaboration. Panelists will discuss the critical role of Indigenous leadership in the forestry sector, highlighting both successes and challenges in ensuring sustainable economic growth while balancing cultural and environmental stewardship. The conversation will focus on how these partnerships are redefining the industry and creating economic opportunities that benefit both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.

October 23, 2024 13:30

Building Resilience: Sustainable Development for the Region

Ben Clark-Moderator
Director, Green & Circular Economy, Delphi

Dallas Gislason
Deputy Director, Regional Economic Development, South Island Prosperity Partnership (SIPP)

Brodie Guy
Chief Executive Officer, Island Coastal Economic Trust

Mayor-Michelle Staples
Mayor, City of Duncan

Sponsored by Nanaimo Prosperity Corporation (NPC)

Explore strategies for balancing economic growth with community health and ecological well-being, fostering a sustainable equilibrium. Engage in discussions led by experts from various sectors, envisioning collaborative solutions that prioritize the long-term prosperity of people, business and the environment.

October 23, 2024 13:30

Research Partnerships Powering Island Potential

Lindsay Frehlick - Moderator
Director of Research Services, Vancouver Island University

Carl Butterworth
Director of Research Operations and Industry Engagement, VIU

Robert Maylath
Director, Partnerships and Engagement, Accelerating Community Energy Transformation (ACET), University of Victoria

Naomi Tabata
Director of Centre for Applied Research, Technology and Innovation, North Island College

Sponsored by Royal Roads University

The Vancouver Island region is home to three Universities and two Colleges. Together, these Post-Secondary institutions collaborate with industry, community and government partners on applied research projects that stimulate new insights and innovation in the region. In this session, a panel will highlight three examples where applied research is contributing to the growth of seafood, seaweed, and clean energy sectors. Delegates will gain awareness about the intellectual capital in the region and an understanding about how to access partnerships with our regional post-secondaries for applied research and innovation.

October 23, 2024 13:30

Scaling Up Entrepreneurship on Vancouver Island: Challenges and Opportunities

Bruce Williams-Moderator
CEO, Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce

Paul Kleinschmidt
Co-Founder - Yeshi Foods

Merissa Myles
Co-Founder, Tree Island Yogurt & Community Builder at Acciano Development

Stacey Toews
Co-founder, Level Ground Coffee Roasters

Sam Vermeulen
Owner and Founder, Hazel's Ice Cream

Scaling up as an entrepreneur on Vancouver Island presents distinct hurdles and unique possibilities. This dynamic panel will focus on bringing goods to market, exploring critical success factors such as access to capital, talent acquisition, market expansion, and the pivotal role of technology and innovation. Panelists will share real-world experiences and lessons learned, discuss the local ecosystem, and provide insights on how Vancouver Island entrepreneurs can overcome challenges and achieve sustainable growth. Featuring Island Good businesses!

October 23, 2024 15:00

Explore Exhibits & Connect

Sponsored by Array

Meet with 35+ exhibitors while networking with delegates

October 23, 2024 15:30

Riding the Wave: Challenges and Opportunities for Ocean Technology

Jason Goldsworthy-Moderator
Executive Director, COAST

Sebastian Berg
Director of Product Development , Shift Coastal Technology

Mike Carter
Vice President of Operations, Port Alberni Port Authority

Robin Li
President, SEAMOR Marine

Captain Satinder Singh
Vice President, Operations and Harbour Master, Nanaimo Port Authority

Sponsored by Port Alberni Port Authority

Discover how Vancouver Island’s ports and ocean tech companies are shaping the future of the blue economy. This session explores the crucial partnerships between ports and tech innovators, highlighting how new technologies are addressing key environmental, efficiency, and resilience challenges. Learn from local businesses that are at the forefront of marine innovation and see how Vancouver Island is becoming a hub for testing and commercializing solutions in this rapidly growing sector.

October 23, 2024 15:30

Investing in Healthcare Infrastructure: Boosting Access and Economic Growth on Vancouver Island

Barney Ellis-Perry - Moderator
CEO, Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation

Westley Davidson
Chief Project Officer, Island Health Capital Projects

Donna Hais
CEO, R.W. Wall Ltd. and Community Liaison NRGH

Deborah Saucier
President and Vice-Chancellor, Vancouver Island University

Sponsored by Nanaimo Prosperity Corporation

This session will explore the significant investments being made in Vancouver Island's healthcare infrastructure and the positive impacts they are expected to bring. We'll discuss how these developments aim to improve accessibility to healthcare services and enhance community well-being. Additionally, the session will examine the broader economic benefits of these investments, from job creation to strengthening the local economy. Join us to learn how strategic infrastructure improvements can drive both healthcare and economic growth in the region.

October 23, 2024 15:30

The Housing Equation: The blunt truth about what caused the housing crisis and how we can find our way forward

Mark Holland-Moderator
President, Westplan Consulting Group & Vancouver Island University Professor/Facilitator

Scott Dutchak
CEO, Habitat for Humanity Victoria

Russell Tibbles
Principal, Island Places Property Corp

Justin Filuk
Director of Development, The Salient Group

Kathy Whitcher
Executive Director, UDI Capital Region

Rory Kulmala
CEO, Vancouver Island Construction Association

Sponsored by Hazelwood

Explore the crucial links between housing, community infrastructure, land use, and economic vitality. This session addresses how housing shortages, affordability issues, and limited infrastructure impact economic development. The discussion will focus on innovative strategies to overcome regulatory barriers and design housing that balances environmental, economic, and community needs. Learn how these approaches can create resilient communities, drive economic growth, and enhance overall well-being.

October 23, 2024 15:30

Unveiling the North Island Potential

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

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

Sponsored by Island Coastal Economic Trust

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.

October 23, 2024 15:30

Powering the Future

Renee Olson
Interim CEO, Khowutzun Development Corp.

Yuho Okada
President, Barkley Project Group Ltd.

Barry Penner-Moderator
Chair, Energy Futures Institute

Ian Welle
CEO, Polar Engineering

Sponsored by TD

As Vancouver Island's energy demands increase with growing connectivity, transportation, and development, we examine the current energy landscape, consumption trends, and future needs. The discussion will explore the low-carbon energy economy, the Journey to 2050 and the pivotal role of First Nations for ensuring a resilient and reliable energy future for the Island. 

October 23, 2024 17:00

Social Hour +

Sponsored by Wirk Consulting

Featuring Island Good wine and beer.

October 23, 2024 18:30

Dinner, Dessert and Music

Enjoy Island Good food and music from the Easy Street Duo.  

Sponsored by Fortis

October 23, 2024 19:15

Keynote - Greg Hart, Chief Executive Officer, Future Fit Cities

Greg Hart
Chief Executive Officer, Future Fit Cities

Sponsored by Nanaimo Prosperity Corporation

Building a Different Future

We all know that we are living in a time of significant instability. There are dangers and there are opportunities. The question is what are they and how do we deal with them. We need a different way of seeing. This interactive talk will expand not only what you believe to be possible but what is probable by understanding the roots of action and inaction and the paths to achieving uncommon levels of flourishing across communities. The storyline will unfold across three chapters that answer the questions, (1) Where are we and how did we get here? (2) Where are we going now? (3) How do we get there? Ultimately it is a question of knowing how success looks, feels and works and then creating the conditions for it to happen.

October 24, 2024 07:30

Breakfast

Featuring a selection of locally sourced Island Good food!

October 24, 2024 08:15

Keynote - Geena Jackson, Founder & Executive Producer, Bears' Lair and President, Indigenous Initiatives Inc.

Geena Jackson
Founder & Executive Producer, Bears' Lair and President, Indigenous Initiatives Inc.

Sponsored by Vancouver Island University (VIU)

Indigenous Entrepreneurism - Past, Present and the progressive future

This informative presentation will take the audience through an educational journey about Indigenous people, the original entrepreneurs of Turtle Island to now being the fastest growing business sector in Canada and what the future holds.

October 24, 2024 09:00

Building the Future: 3D Generative Design and Digital Collaboration for Smarter Housing

Graham Truax - Moderator
Executive Director & EiR, Innovation Island

Tristian Gale
Executive Director of Environment and Sustainable Development, Malahat Nation

Benjamin Coorey
Founder & CEO, Archistar.ai

Amy Vilis
Director, DIGITAL, Canada's Global Innovation Cluster for digital technologies

Sponsored by Vancouver Island Real Estate Board

This panel will explore the innovative use of 3D Generative AI Building Design technology in housing masterplans, enhancing design and approval processes. It will showcase Archistar’s technology, which helps create vibrant mixed-use neighborhoods aligned with the Malahat Nation Land Use Plan, integrating residential, commercial, and cultural spaces for sustainable, walkable communities. By automating planning functions, Archistar improves zoning and compliance checks, reducing approval times. The discussion will also cover the DIGITAL co-investment platform, which fosters cross-industry collaboration and supports Canadian intellectual property development, enabling scalable solutions to address housing shortages while prioritizing community impact and cultural sensitivity.

October 24, 2024 09:00

Economic Reconciliation: A Pathway to Success

Katherine Palmer Gordon - Moderator
Consultant: Facilitation, Negotiations, Engagement, Governance, and Strategy, Canada and New Zealand

Robert Dennis
Chair, Iskum Investments

CarolAnne Hilton
Chief Executive Officer, Indigenomics Institute

Ken Watts
Chief Councillor, Tseshaht

Sponsored by South Island Prosperity Partnership

Economic reconciliation involves not only closing economic gaps but also fostering equitable partnerships, securing access to capital, and dismantling systemic barriers. This panel will explore how Indigenous communities are at the forefront of these efforts, navigating the complexities of preserving cultural heritage while advancing sustainable development, governance, and social well-being. Join our panelists as they share insights on building a sustainable and inclusive future for Indigenous communities.

October 24, 2024 09:00

Strengthening Vancouver Island's Transportation and Supply Chain: Future-Focused Strategies for Trade and Logistics

Jason Michell-Moderator
Vice President - Business Development, Nanaimo Port Authority

Thomas Bevan
CEO, Island Corridor Foundation

Mario Iacobacci
Partner, Economic Advisory, Deloitte Canada

Chris Theeparajah
Senior International Trade Finance Manager, Vancouver Island Region, Export Development Canada

Joel Werner
COO, DP World in Canada

Sponsored by Nanaimo Airport (YCD)

As Vancouver Island aims to enhance its supply chain resilience, this session will broaden the focus to include transportation strategies that support future growth. We’ll explore innovative opportunities for improving the movement of goods, expanding import and export capabilities, and addressing transportation bottlenecks. Discussions will cover the optimization of logistics, infrastructure upgrades, and collaborations with key stakeholders to create a more robust network. Learn how businesses can effectively tap into global markets by streamlining regional first and last-mile transportation. This session offers practical insights to drive economic growth and ensure seamless goods movement, even in challenging times, while planning for the future needs of the region

October 24, 2024 09:00

Measuring Impact in Purpose-Driven Business

Jill Doucette - Moderator
Founder, Synergy Enterprises

Joanna Buczkowska-McCumber
CEO and Chief Impact Strategist Ideas for Impact Sustainability Agency

Kristi Fairholm-Mader
Managing Director, Thrive Impact Fund

Michael Williamson
CEO, Cascadia Seaweed

Sponsored by Nanaimo Prosperity Corporation

This session highlights the rise of innovative entrepreneurs who are redefining business success through purpose-driven models such as B Corps and socially responsible enterprises. We will explore how these businesses are integrating social impact into their core operations and the methods used to measure this impact effectively. Join us to learn about the latest trends in ethical entrepreneurship and discover practical strategies for assessing and enhancing the social contributions of your business..

October 24, 2024 09:00

Future-Proofing Vancouver Island’s Workforce: Innovative Approaches to Bridging the Talent Gap

Angela Heit-Moderator
Founder and CEO, Crysalis People Solutions

Peter Charles
Regional HR Consultant - Vancouver Island/Gulf Islands, Go2HR

Corry Gervais
CEO, Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce

Kerry Jothen
CEO, Human Capital Strategies

Sponsored by HA Photography

As Vancouver Island grapples with a labour shortage, the future of its workforce hangs in the balance. This session will explore how businesses can not only navigate but also future-proof their workforce strategies. Beyond traditional hiring and retention tactics, this discussion will delve into innovative solutions like up-skilling local talent,  integrating automation to reduce labor dependency, and creating partnerships with educational institutions to align training programs with the future job market. Additionally, we'll explore how businesses can leverage remote work opportunities to attract talent from outside the region and how community initiatives can address the housing and affordability challenges that threaten to drive away the island’s workforce.

October 24, 2024 10:15

Explore Exhibits & Connect

Sponsored by Vancouver Island Conference Centre

Meet with 35+ exhibitors while networking with delegates.

October 24, 2024 10:45

Becoming Succession Ready

Ashka Wirk-Moderator
Principal, Wirk Consulting

Ehren Lee
Consultant, Urban Systems

Josh Ludgate
COO, Small Business BC

Kyle White
Director of Education, Co-operatives First

Sponsored by Doane Grant Thornton

Join small business sector leaders, succession planning experts, and business owners as they share insights, experiences, and innovative approaches for small and medium sized businesses, and especially founder-led businesses, to navigate and thrive through succession planning.

October 24, 2024 10:45

Celebrating Indigenous Business

Trevor Cootes - Moderator
Founder/CEO, Cootes Consulting

Kim Burden
CEO, Nanoose Economic Development Corporation

Cyrus Singh
CEO, KEDC (Kawatsi Economic Development Corporation)

Gary Wilson
Ka:'yu:'k't'h'/Che:k'tles7et'h'

CEO and Director for Economic Development, Tiičma Enterprises/Management Services LP

Sponsored by CPABC

Building off the success of last year’s Indigenous business panel, this session will explore the rapid growth of Indigenous enterprises and their increasing impact on Vancouver Island’s economy. The panelists will highlight how Indigenous businesses are driving innovation, creating jobs, and fostering economic sustainability across various sectors. By showcasing success stories, the discussion will emphasize the importance of supporting Indigenous entrepreneurship and the role it plays in regional development and economic resilience.

October 24, 2024 10:45

Strengthening Healthcare Services: Enhancing Connectivity, Accessibility, and Economic Well-being

Dyan Dunsmoor-Farley - Moderator
Community Activator & Independent Researcher, Dyan Dunsmoor-Farley & Associates

Mary Chudley
Director, Health & Support Services, Cool Aid Community Health Centre

Courtney Defriend
Representing Tillicum Lelum

Jeff Malmgren
Principal, dsi strategy & engagement

Max Jajszczok
Executive Director, Centre & North Island Community Hospitals and Rural Remote Operations & Strategy, Island Health

Sponsored by Nanaimo Prosperity Corporation

This session will explore the "soft infrastructure" of healthcare on Vancouver Island, focusing on the integration and alignment of services across the region. We’ll address the challenges of navigating the complex healthcare system and discuss strategies for improving connectivity and accessibility. Additionally, the session will highlight the economic impacts of accessible healthcare, emphasizing how a well-supported, healthy population leads to a more productive workforce and stronger communities. Discover how investing in healthcare services benefits both individual well-being and regional prosperity.

October 24, 2024 10:45

AI in Action: Integrating Innovation

Sherese Johnson - Moderator
Interim Executive Director, Rural Islands Economic Partnership

Lauren Evanow
CEO, Results Team Communication Inc

Jennifer Hufnagel
Principal, Hufnagel Consulting

Charly Jarrett
Senior Digital Consultant, HJC

Sponsored by Motivation Monday Marketing and Consulting

Explore how AI can transform your business, whether you're in retail, services, production, creative or non profit sectors. This session highlights how AI tools can boost productivity and drive growth across diverse sectors. Learn from real-world examples and discuss setting policies and workplace norms for effective AI adoption. Discover how AI can enhance your work and unlock new opportunities in a rapidly changing landscape.

October 24, 2024 10:45

Feeding the Region: The Future of Agriculture

Rahul Singh Moderator
Director, BC Centre for Agritech Innovation (BCCAI) Simon Fraser University

Chris Steel
Store Manager, Old Farm Market

Steve Hughes
CEO, St Jean’s Cannery

Campbell Woike
General Manager, Farmer Ben's Eggs

Nick DiCarlo
Sales Director Canada, Cermaq

Sponsored by B.C. Centre for Agritech Innovation, a Simon Fraser University initiative

In the coming decades, how will Vancouver Island sustain its food supply? This session explores the island's agricultural future, covering logistics, farming innovations, and the roles of key sectors like seafood, egg production and retail. With insights from industry leaders and local farmers, discover strategies for enhancing food security and resilience in the face of global challenges and shifting climate conditions.

October 24, 2024 12:00

Closing Lunch

Featuring a selection of locally sourced Island Good food!

October 24, 2024 12:45

Hotel Pacifico Podcast

Mike McDonald
Hotel Pacifico Host

Kate Hammer
Hotel Pacifico Host

Geoff Meggs
Hotel Pacifico Host

Sponsored by Port of Nanaimo

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.

October 24, 2024 14:30

Vision 2050 Workshop

Sponsored by Island Corridor Foundation

Register for the Summit and add on the Vision 2050 Workshop. Limited seating.

The Vision 2050 workshop is more than just a discussion; it’s a collaborative effort to envision and co-create the future we desire for our region. This dynamic conversation will integrate diverse expertise, perspectives, and key drivers to propel us towards a sustainable and thriving future.