Please note all times are in PT

Business Forum Agenda

Thursday, October 6, 2022
9:00 AM

Coffee Connection Networking Reception sponsored by ESS Support Services

10:00 AM

Opening Entertainment
Elder Blessing and Land Acknowledgement
Welcome from Host

10:30 AM

Join in the conversation as we look at the four strategic pathways in the 2022 National Indigenous Economic Strategy (NIES): People, Lands, Infrastructure, and Finance. Strengthen your existing reconciliACTION plan and collaborate with attendees to support inclusive growth for and with Indigenous communities.

11:30 AM
 
12:45 PM

Opening remarks by Lead Sponsor Scotiabank
Opening remarks - President & CEO Tabatha Bull

1:10 PM

The Journey to Economic Prosperity continues with meaningful steps toward building trust and strengthening relationships.  Gain insight and understanding from this panel of community and corporate representatives who have established successful equity partnerships with Indigenous values at the forefront.

2:00 PM
 
2:20 PM
 
3:00 PM

A panel on the progress that has been made by the private and public sector in Indigenous procurement. In addition, a discussion with Indigenous business leaders on how to advance procurement opportunities, followed by a Q & A.

Join CCAB and Global Affairs Canada for a presentation and panel discussion on key findings from the Indigenous Owned Exporters, Studies, and Survey’s report. Explore popular target markets for Indigenous enterprises and hear from business owners as they share their journey with international exporting of goods or services.

With employees and investors demanding more commitment and action from tech companies to diversify, what is needed to advance the adoption of tech careers for FNMI communities? Join this roundtable with industry change makers to discuss how tech companies can better support cultural safety to grow their business. 

Since its introduction in 2001, Progressive Aboriginal Relations (PAR) remains the premier corporate social responsibility program with an emphasis on Indigenous relations. Understand how to become successfully PAR certified through a detailed examination of companies that have participated in the program and what that has meant for business growth. Questions and audience participation encouraged.

Join representatives from CCAB and Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) for a workshop on how to apply for funding, training, and business opportunities including the new Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP), Google grants, and more to help digitize your business.

4:00 PM
 
4:15 PM
 
5:00 PM
 

Cocktail Reception and Dinner Schedule (separate ticket from the West Coast Business Forum)

6:00 PM
 
6:45 PM
 
7:15 PM

Opening blessing - Elder Carleen Thomas
Dinner Sponsor Vancity welcome
Keynote Sponsor Leaders International

7:30 PM

 

 

8:00 PM

 

 

9:00 PM

PAR - Progressive Aboriginal Relations - presentation of certification

 

9:45 PM