Summer Rewind, Fall Kickstart

What a summer it’s been! The Greater Vancouver Board of Trade kept the momentum going with a series of awesome events, from inspiring talks to friendly competitions. Here's a quick look back at some of the highlights from July and August, where members connected, learned, and had a blast.

On the Mainstage:

A Conversation with John Rustad, Leader of the Conservative Party of B.C.

On June 20, John Rustad, Leader of the Conservative Party of B.C., joined us to chat about some of the big issues the province is facing. He talked about the importance of getting young people involved in politics, speeding up the permit process to make things easier for projects to move forward, and the need for more treatment options for those recovering from addiction. Rustad also touched on boosting local food production and investing in new tech to help safeguard against climate change. 

GVBOT Corporate Cup 2024

The Corporate Cup was back in action at BC Place, and the competition was fierce! Twenty corporate teams gave it their all, but in the end, MNP Advisory FC took home the trophy after a nail-biting final against MNP United. The day was filled with team spirit, laughs, and friendly rivalry. If you missed the action, you can catch some highlights here.

PRO-AM Golf Tournament

Our members didn’t just compete on the soccer field—over 30 teams hit the greens at Westwood Plateau Golf Club for the annual PRO-AM Golf Tournament. It was a perfect day for some friendly competition, networking, and taking in the scenic views.

Members' Socials and Experiences

This summer was also about making connections and enjoying some unique experiences together. Here’s what we got up to:

• Holt’s Café Social: We kicked things off with a stylish gathering at Holt’s Café. Members mingled in the luxurious setting and each took home a deluxe Clarins skincare gift.
• Vancouver International Jazz Festival: Members got to experience an exclusive event at Ocean Artworks, complete with a private concert by Toma Zenda featuring Tiffany Rivera. It was a perfect combo of great music and great company.
• Vancouver Canadians Baseball Game: Nothing says summer like baseball! Our members watched the Vancouver Canadians play from some of the best seats in the stadium, all while networking and enjoying the game.
• Office Tours: We also explored some amazing office spaces around the city, including the Guinness Business Centre, Govan Brown office, and Deloitte Summit. These tours were a great way to learn more about these companies while connecting with fellow members.
• Honda Celebration of Light: Finally, we ended the season with a bang at the Honda Celebration of Light. Members got a front-row seat to one of the most spectacular fireworks shows in the world, all against the stunning backdrop of English Bay.

Policy Initiatives

Reopening of Direct-to-Consumer B.C. Wine Sales to Alberta

We welcomed the reopening of B.C. wine sales directly to Alberta, celebrating the positive impact on the wine industry and cross-provincial trade. This announcement brought welcome stability to B.C.’s award-winning wine industry. Together, consumers in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba consume over 62 million litres of B.C. wine each year. GVBOT President and CEO Bridgitte Anderson thanked B.C. Premier David Eby and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith for working diligently to support the free-trade relationship between the two provinces, which is integral to the economic well-being of both.

Concern Over Potential Transit Cuts

Bridgitte Anderson voiced concern over potential transit cuts, warning that reduced service would harm businesses, increase traffic congestion, and worsen urban mobility. She highlighted the importance of reliable transit for workers and businesses alike, urging collaborative solutions to address funding challenges, particularly as the population in Greater Vancouver continues to grow.

Canadian Rail Strike: GVBOT’s Response and the Latest Developments

The contract dispute between Canadian National Railway (CN) and Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) this August resulted in a disruptive work stoppage nationwide, impacting freight and commutes. GVBOT voiced serious concerns about the economic impact, urging the federal government to act. Federal Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon stepped in, and the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) ordered the work stoppage to end.

While we’re relieved rail services have resumed, with ongoing labour disputes at West Coast ports, we will continue to urge the federal government to use binding arbitration as an option for future labour disputes that could affect nationally significant sectors, especially for our supply chain.

Upcoming Events & Programs

AI Adoption Program, developed and powered by KPMG

KPMG and the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade are excited to launch the AI Adoption Program, a cutting-edge initiative designed to help businesses embrace the power of artificial intelligence (AI).

This brand-new program is set to equip companies with the knowledge, tools, and confidence needed to seamlessly integrate generative AI into their operations—increasing productivity, enhancing customer experience, and ultimately boosting revenue.

Join the program today and be at the vanguard of this technological revolution expected to increase global economic growth by $13 trillion by the end of the decade.

At the Heart of Canada’s Passenger Journey: VIA Rail's 2030 Vision

VIA Rail aims to achieve a profound transformation in the coming years by leveraging its teams' quality, extensive expertise, and vested interest in passenger rail worldwide.

To drive this ambition, VIA Rail has developed a new strategic plan to lay the groundwork for its future aspirations and further embody its role as a champion of passenger rail in the country.

Join us on September 25 to gain further insight into how VIA Rail’s services in British Columbia fit into this 2030 plan and to learn more about VIA Rail's ambition for the coming decade.

Indigenous Opportunities Forum 2024: Advancing Indigenous-Led Prosperity

Greater Vancouver Board of Trade's annual event brings together local First Nations and the region's business and economic development leaders to connect, discuss, and learn about projects, partnerships, and opportunities for shared growth in the region.

This year's forum will explore Indigenous businesses and communities' role in building a prosperous and equitable region and provide a meaningful learning opportunity for your business reconciliation journey.

Join us for an inspiring event that brings together local First Nations, business leaders, and economic development professionals to connect, share, and learn about the projects and partnerships spearheaded by Indigenous communities in the region. We will explore actions to fulfill the Truth and Reconciliation Call to Action 92, advancing Indigenous-led prosperity and inclusive growth for all in the region.