5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Opening Night Reception
End the event with a casual evening of entertainment, food, and networking. Connect with fellow attendees, CCIB board members, speakers, and staff. Tickets can be added when you register for the event.
Presented by Bank of Montreal (BMO)
9:00 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.: Indigenous Artisans Marketplace
Location: Junior Ballroom Foyer, Level 3
We invite you to visit and explore the Indigenous Marketplace, which will feature a diverse selection of Indigenous artisans and businesses, offering unique products and showcasing local craftsmanship.
Presented by iA Financial Group
9:00 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.: Wellness Area
Location: Parksville
Take a moment for yourself in a space intentionally designed for quiet reflection and restoration. Whether you need to decompress after a session or simply find a moment of peace, we invite you to step away from the forum, enjoy a cup of tea, and take part in a smudge.
9:00 a.m.: Registration & Coffee Connection
Location: Lower Lobby, LL Level
Pick up your badge, grab a coffee and connect with fellow attendees.
10:00 a.m.: Forum Opening
Location: Lower Lobby, LL Level
Host
Elder Blessing
Opening
Lead Sponsor
CEO Remarks
10:45 p.m.: Networking with Prompty
Take your networking to the next level with Prompty. Hear from Founder & CEO, James McInnes, about how this Canadian and Indigenous-owned technology is transforming the way we connect. Designed as a relationship manager, not a social network, Prompty makes in-person networking more efficient, enjoyable, and secure. As CCIB’s official event app, Prompty will power your on-site experience from start to finish.
Don’t forget to pick up your Prompty networking tool onsite and join the event in advance (link provided upon registration).
10:55 a.m.: Lightning Talks
This segment brings together a series of inspiring 7-minute talks from diverse Indigenous voices, all aligned with our 2026 event theme: Rooted in Purpose. Growing through Connection. The talks provide powerful insights, ideas, and stories, in a concise, engaging format, sparking conversation, deepening connection, and inspiring action.
11:55 a.m.: Breakout Session 1 (Morning – Repeat of Afternoon)
Unlocking Access to Capital
Hear from leading financial institutions about their programs and opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs, including funding pathways, business support services, and key eligibility criteria. Following each presentation, attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and engage directly with representatives from major financial institutions.
How to Engage with Major Projects
This panel discussion will explore how small and medium-sized Indigenous businesses can participate in and benefit from major projects. Hear from leaders and entrepreneurs who are actively involved in large-scale project development and delivery and learn how to identify and leverage opportunities.
AI Workshop
More details coming soon.
Leadership Workshop
More details coming soon.
12:40 p.m.: Buffet Lunch
Enjoy a variety of dishes while networking with fellow attendees.
1:30 p.m.: Mainstage Session: Investing in the Next Generation: Our Role in Empowering Indigenous Youth
Across Canada, Indigenous youth are one of the fastest-growing demographics in the country and will play a major role in shaping the future of our workforce, our communities and our economy. This inspiring conversation brings together Bears’ Lair business youth camp alumni at different stages of their journeys. Panelists will share what inspires them, what challenges they face, what gives them confidence, and what they need from educators, employers, businesses, governments and communities in order to succeed.
2:25 p.m.: Breakout Session 2 (Afternoon – Repeat of Morning)
Unlocking Access to Capital
Hear from leading financial institutions about their programs and opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs, including funding pathways, business support services, and key eligibility criteria. Following each presentation, attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and engage directly with representatives from major financial institutions.
How to Engage with Major Projects
This panel discussion will explore how small and medium-sized Indigenous businesses can participate in and benefit from major projects. Hear from leaders and entrepreneurs who are actively involved in large-scale project development and delivery and learn how to identify and leverage opportunities.
AI Workshop
More details coming soon.
Leadership Workshop
More details coming soon.
3:10 p.m.: Networking Break
Enjoy some refreshments and light snacks. This is your final chance to stop by the Indigenous artisan marketplace!
3:50 p.m.: Mainstage Session: Spark Session
Connect with fellow conference attendees to spark discussion around the day’s themes. Attendees will join roundtable conversations to explore key topics in greater depth while also creating opportunities to network and connect with one another.
4:20 p.m.: Closing Remarks
A final reflection on the day’s insights and a note of thanks to our speakers, sponsors, and guests.
6:00 p.m.: Cocktail Reception
Join us for an evening reception to network with attendees over cocktails and light hors d’oeuvres.
Presented By: CIBC
7:00 p.m.: Awards Dinner Opening
Location: Lower Lobby, LL Level
Host
-
Geena Jackson Co-Founder & Executive Producer. Bears’ Lair TV | Co-Founder, Bears’ Lair Dream Camps | Co-Founder & President, Indigenous Initiatives | Co-Host, Beyond the Lair Podcast
Elder Blessing
Lead Sponsor
CEO Remarks
Opening
7:40 p.m.: Award Presentation
Award Category Presentation: Award for Excellence in Indigenous Relations
Presented by: Sysco Canada
8:00 p.m.: Dinner
Enjoy a delicious dinner that complements the evening’s celebration and fosters meaningful connections.
8:45 p.m.: Award Presentation
Award Category Presentation: Indigenous Small Business of the Year
Presented by: Bouchier
9:05 p.m.: Award Presentation
Award Category Presentation: Indigenous Business of the Year
Presented by: ESS
9:30 p.m.: Closing Remarks
Conclusion of the evening with a heartfelt thanks and recognition of the outstanding achievements celebrated tonight.
