Wednesday April 16, 2025
7:00 - 8:00 a.m. Breakfast (Pinnacle Ballroom)
8:00 - 8:45 a.m. BIABC 2024 AGM + Update (Rivers Ballroom)
8:45 - 9:30 a.m. Keynote Session (Pinnacle Ballroom)
Shaping the Future of BC's Hospitality Industry: Navigating Challenges, Embracing Opportunities, and Advocating for Change
Ian Tostenson will explore the current state of British Columbia’s hospitality industry, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities it faces in a rapidly evolving landscape. Key challenges such as labour shortages, rising operational costs, decreased consumer spending and the impacts of provincial and federal policies will be addressed. At the same time, the session will delve into emerging opportunities, including harnessing technology and the strengthening of our local marketplace / support local movement with the impending US imposed tariffs. Additionally, Ian will emphasize the importance of joint advocacy at the provincial and national levels, focusing on policies that can support the industry’s recovery, workforce development, and long-term resilience.
Ian Tostenson, President & CEO, BCRFA
9:35 - 10:25 a.m. Plenary Session (Pinnacle Ballroom)
Finding Common Ground: Building Bridges for Sustainable Economic Development (ED)
We will explore how Business Improvement Areas (BIAs), and municipal governments can come together to foster vibrant, resilient communities. By focusing on strategic partnerships, the presentation will highlight the key elements that drive successful community economic development. From leveraging local strengths to creating collaborative networks, Finding Common Ground demonstrates how working together can unlock new opportunities, overcome challenges, and build sustainable prosperity for all stakeholders. Join us to discover actionable insights for creating a unified approach to economic growth and shared success.
Siobian Smith, Director of Business and Economy , City of Vancouver
10:25 - 10:50 a.m. Networking Break & Hotel Check Out
10:50 - 11:45 a.m. Closing Keynote Session (Pinnacle Ballroom)
In Times of Change and Uncertainty is there Hope for our Communities!
In these uncertain economic, trade tariff and political times, how do we as leaders stay optimistic and encourage those around us to stay positive? The role of business improvement organizations is to stay at the forefront maintaining optimism in our communities. This closing session will provide some practical tools and dialogue that will send everyone back to your communities with a sense of a “Can Do” attitude!
Peter Fassbender, President, Fassbender Consulting Ltd
11:45 a.m. Closing remarks and announcement of the location of the 2026 conference