Conference & Meetings World Supplement Canada | Page 9

“ There is no substitute for the creativity and energy that ignites when groups of like-minded people come together in the same place ,” explains Virginie De Visscher , Senior Director of Business Development , Economic Sectors at Destination Canada Business Events . “ When organisations choose to host their event in one of Canada ’ s centres of excellence , they not only gain access to some of the world ’ s safest , greenest , creative and culturally diverse and dynamic destinations — they also gain access to their industry ’ s thought leaders and innovators . These opportunities not only promote the transfer of knowledge , but they can lead to future collaboration , talent attraction , trade , investment and future leisure travellers . Such is the power of business events as a catalyst for economic nourishment and social and cultural change .”
Access to industry expertise , however , is not the only lasting impression that the country will leave on attendees . One of the many things separating Canada from other event destinations is the fact that the country ’ s F & I knowledge hubs are also some its most vibrant and enchanting cities .
These lively urban hubs are sure to attract delegates from across the world , as they revel in the opportunity to explore some of the most unique cities in North America . Canada has a well-deserved reputation as a beautiful country , both in these hubs and beyond the city limits , and attendees will be blown away by their memorable surroundings . With natural beauty ranging from mountains to oceans , from prairies to lakes , and from tundra to beaches , it ’ s clear why event organisers are attracted to Canada for their F & I events . The country ’ s natural appeal is sure to supplement even the most exciting event agenda , drawing more delegates and enhancing any event — both inside and outside of the conference
Destination Canada Business Events has an F & I sector expert on staff . Their role is to connect meeting organisers with those in the country ’ s F & I ecosystem , helping to make events in Canada as successful as possible .
Right : Credit : © MU - Ville-Marie - ElMac Gene Pendon 2017 - Photo by Gerald Vincent
room .
In addition , Canada ’ s F & I centres of excellence are home to world-class convention infrastructure . Whether you ’ re looking to organise an intimate board meeting or a citywide take-over with thousands of delegates , you ’ ll find the perfect fit in one of the country ’ s sector hubs . Canada ’ s conference centres are state-of-the-art and often pair with award-winning event production , catering and destination management companies to create truly unbeatable events . Planners can rely on Canada as a destination that will not only fulfill , but exceed , their event needs .
The country is also a destination where international delegates will truly feel at home . Inclusivity and diversity are central to the way of life in Canada and planners can rest assured that event attendees from across the world will feel welcome in one of the world ’ s most forward-thinking nations . This diversity and inclusion , however , extends beyond culture and it is the openness to diverse ideas that have cemented Canada as an F & I leader , and a place in which delegates
can come to expand their industry understanding .
“ Known as a welcoming , accepting country , Canada has long believed in the transformative power of diversity . By opening our doors , hearts and minds , we embrace and celebrate a mix of cultures , backgrounds and beliefs — and we are a stronger country because of it ,” says Chantal Sturk-Nadeau , Executive Director , Destination Canada Business Events . “ This diversity is seen in our vibrant workforces , the cutting-edge innovations that are fuelling progress across our thriving economic sectors , and in our cosmopolitan urban centres that boast dynamic culinary experiences and so much more ,” she adds .
All of these inherent benefits serve to create an additional sense of purpose for those that meet in Canada . The events themselves can be bolstered by leveraging local F & I leadership , and the country ’ s beautiful cities , wonderous natural geography and welcoming attitude will help in the creation of truly valuable and memorable meetings .
CONFERENCE & MEETINGS WORLD
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