The BC Science & Technology Network is a not-for-profit society made up of nine member councils who take a lead role in facilitating science and technology commercialization outside of the Lower Mainland.  Sci-Tech North, representing the Peace-Liard-Stikine region of British Columbia, joined other BCRSTN members, representatives of the BC Innovation Council and their partners at a February conference in Victoria where the collective message was that while the regions all have their unique needs, commonalities exist and therefore significant opportunities for collaboration.

Discussions were held to identify opportunities for resource-sharing, collaboration and achieving the following goals:

•    Sharing best practices regarding the commercialization of science and technology

•    Determining the Innovation Council’s key strategic goals and initiatives and identifying Network partnerships that  would increase their effectiveness

Speakers included:
•    Hon. Ida Chong, Minister of Technology, Trade and Economic Development
•    Bruce Hardy, Pacific Region Industrial Technology Advisor, National Research Council
•    Dean Rockwell, Chief Executive Officer, BC Innovation Council

A presentation to MLAs and other decision makers highlighted the scope and importance of the tech sector and identified the BCRSTN as the driving force behind the growth of a dynamic knowledge-based economy in regional BC.  Technology remains a key employer and economic driver in regional British Columbia, employing 30,000 people and generating $4.1 billion in annual revenue.

The conference was a powerful networking venue and the dialogues around the agenda items have led to the adoption of ideas and practices that Sci-Tech will tailor to meet the programming needs of our region.