The Digital and Data-driven Economy

August 20, 2018, Nanaimo, BC:  As part of the national digital and data consultations, Innovation Island Technology Association (“IITA”) hosted a roundtable discussion with The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada. We would like to extend a warm thank you to the team that helped pull this event together and for all of the participating attendees including the moderator Anil Arora, Chief Statistician of Canada.

Although the smoky skies caused a number of cancelled flights from Vancouver, the engaging discussion brought together various island-based tech leaders, businesses, industry associations and institutions. Topics on the agenda included three key themes: unleashing innovation; the future of work; trust and privacy.

IITA’s EiR, Graham Truax, also brought a few interesting perspectives to the table.  “I think it’s great that the Government of Canada is expanding awareness and engagement on these topics.  Digital disruption is a very real thing, impacting communities and industries both big and small. The founders of Airbnb did not come from the Bed & Breakfast trade, nor did the founders of Uber come from the taxi business.  While tech and innovation arguably touch everything I think we need to consider that there are three basic distinctions in this respect: those making it, those using it, and those who should be using it more.”

Innovation Island is proud to serve Nanaimo’s developing tech scene and many other wonderful communities that comprise the greater Vancouver Island region and Sunshine Coast. Please connect with our office anytime to discuss how we can help support the region and tech sector!

CONTACT:
Chelsea Pedersen, General Manager
chelsea@innovationisland.ca
250-753-8324