An economic summit planned for Thursday, May 21 in Coquitlam will bring politicians, technology experts and CEOs together for a look at the Canadian economy with an emphasis on technology and innovation.
Hosted by the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce, the event is an effort to draw business leaders from inside and outside the Tri-Cities to showcase the region, said executive director Michael Hind, and provide learning and networking opportunities for local businesses.
"I think they're going to get some new perspectives on business from some leaders, our second goal is to promote this beyond Tri-Cities' borders, (so they learn) you know what Tri-City is a great place to do business," Hind said.
Speakers confirmed so far include industry minister James Moore, who will be the keynote speaker, presenting a national perspective on the economy, followed by a federal MP panel representing Canada's national parties (so far three, the NDP, Green Party and Conservatives) have confirmed.
A technology panel feature representatives from local and Vancouver businesses including Finger Food Studios, Alive Publishing Group, UrtheCast and Automotive Fuel Cell Coop will offer a glimpse into the future, and Hinde said he is hoping to get a representative from a company that deals with Asia-Canada businesses to provide the international perspective, something that is increasingly important to B.C. as a gateway to the Pacific.
A CEO panel of local high-profile business leaders will wrap up the event: they conclude Rod Baker, CEO of Great Canadian Gaming, Jean-Pierre Leblanc, co-founder of Saje Natural, Darrell Jones, CEO of Overwaitea Food Group and Debbie Samson president of Back in Motion.
"We've got four really good CEOs who are going to be able to talk about their business and what they see as the future."
Tickets to the event taking place at the Hard Rock Casino Vancouver on United Boulevard in Coquitlam are available at www.tricitieschamber.com. The morning will start with breakfast at 7 a.m., with Port Moody-Coquitlam-Port Coquitlam MP James Moore speaking at 8 a.m., and the event will end at 11:30 a.m.,
"If this goes well, we hope to have an annual economic summit," Hind said
