Rising Economy 2026 is Greater Victoria’s largest multi-sector business conference, designed for entrepreneurs, innovators, business owners, public leaders and community builders. With the theme of “Activating Possibility,” this year’s conference is a lively, idea-rich gathering featuring fast-paced Spark Talks, Power Panels and interactive sessions that explore how leadership, AI and tech, workplace trends and global shifts are impacting us. The agenda blends insight with energy, from rapid-fire innovation sessions with emerging companies to candid “Ask Me Anything” conversations, including one with the mayors of Victoria, Saanich, Sidney and View Royal. Attendees will hear from economists, innovators, founders, CEOs and civic leaders on topics ranging from Canada’s pivot in a fragmenting global order to avoiding obsolescence in the age of AI. Featured speakers include: Judith Bosire, Chief Economist, Vancity; Jason Morehouse, CEO, HiBoop; Tinka Robev, CEO, Puzzle Lab; Justin Young, Owner, Canadian Tire; Ian Chisholm, Author, Quiet Champions; Mike Vardy, Author and Productivity Strategist, and many more.