GLOBE Forum 2024 - Phase 2 Innovation Showcase
In February 2024, CanNor hosted the Innovation Showcase at the GLOBE Forum in the Vancouver Convention Centre to mark the conclusion of the Northern Food Innovation Challenge, and provide a last snapshot to the public of the successes of the final four Phase 2 participants. The GLOBE Forum is one of North America's premier events for leaders and change-makers at the forefront of advancing a regenerative and equitable economy. Over 1,250 registrants from 600 organizations participated in the conference, representing private businesses, NGOs, government, and academia.
CanNor facilitated a 60-minute session entitled "Northern Food Innovation Challenge: Supporting Food Resilient Communities in the Territories" within the HUB Space of the Forum – a central space connecting all areas of the Vancouver Convention Centre, and creating a seamless circular journey for delegates to immerse themselves in the content.
Representatives of the Phase 2 projects – the Yukon First Nation Education Directorate, the Fort Simpson Metis Development Corporation, the Qajuqturvik Community Food Centre, and the Ittaq Heritage and Research Centre – presented the current status and future objectives of their food systems projects, sharing their insights on the role of innovative food initiatives in supporting communities, health, culture, education, and more. Phase 2 organizations also engaged in an informal meet-and-greet, forged important connections, and cultivated opportunities for future collaboration and partnership with event attendees.
While attendance at the GLOBE Forum was the final milestone of the Northern Food Innovation Challenge, the important work of these projects continues. Across Canada's territories, the food sector is more than an economic driver. Food security and food sovereignty play foundational roles in supporting cultural revitalization, education, and community resiliency. The initiatives supported through NFIC demonstrate that Northerners are best positioned to develop sustainable solutions for northern food systems, leveraging local knowledge and resources. Through both its general and targeted programming, CanNor continues to support a resilient and dynamic northern economy for businesses, Northerners and their communities.
Text alternative for Globe presentation photo and Globe group shot.
Representatives for the NFIC Phase 1 projects from the University of Waterloo, the Qajuqturvik Community Food Centre, the Yukon First Nation Education Directorate, Qikiqtaaluk Business Development Corporation, the Fort Simpson Metis Development Corporation, the Ittaq Heritage and Research Centre of the Ilisaqsivik Society, and the Hamlet of Cambridge Bay participated in the 2022 ASM in Toronto.