British Columbia is facing an unprecedented opportunity to build more sustainable communities and economies across the province. More and more, we are beginning to realize the power and opportunity of the social economy- a third sector working alongside the private sector and governments through cooperatives, non-profits, credit unions, charities and social impact businesses. In BC, the social economy sector creates more jobs than forestry, mining and agriculture combined- generating more than $11 billion in annual GDP.

Realize Opportunity will explore the role of BC’s social economy sector as a contributor to jobs and economic development, and will also explore opportunities for partnerships with the Province and the private sector. Bringing together innovative ideas and people, we will celebrate the strengths of the sector, and look to build bridges, while seeking to raise the profile of the sector with the media. Participants will explore the following topics:

• How do we leverage the productive power of non-profits, cooperatives and social enterprises alongside government and the private sector to build the future of our province?
• How can the social economy bring social issues to the forefront of our economies?
• How can the private sector and non-profit sectors work together to create financially sound solutions to social issues?
• What is needed within the sector to strengthen and benefit all British Columbians?

In particular, we welcome the following leaders to join us for this exciting event: