British Columbia Innovation Council

We had an incredible turnout at our very first Town Hall last night. There were more than 110 people in attendance and close to 50 groups following us online. From the initial comments, people really seem to agree that BCIC is on the right track with our updated strategy and guiding principles. The questions, comments and conversations that ensued at last night's forum further validates that there is an incredible level of passion that exists within members of our community. That being said, how can we not succeed in making BC a leading technology centre and an example for others to follow?

Some great comments and questions were raised last night. We heard you and over the next while, we will address them. Below are highlights:

• Why did BCIC switch its focus from sectors to stages? What are the advantages or disadvantages and how will this help given some sectors are unique in their needs? Elmer Sum, SFU Innovation Office
• What are BCIC's plans to engage the K-12 system in entrepreneurship? Jonathan Bowers (thejonotron), MemoryLeaf
• Given BCIC's stated focus on better telling story of BC tech successes, what's your vision for that area of work? Judy Bishop (judybishop)
• Highlighting the need for the creation of a list of startups willing to partner with tech companies. Eric Brooke (ericbrooke), Professionally You
• When measuring success, why not add revenue or profit to job creation? Pooya Kazerouni (kpooya), Xatash

Pooya also commented on the need for a team of evangelists to lead in the rebranding of BC. He said, "We're not just a pretty city for the rich and retired."

If you did not get a chance to comment or ask your question at Town Hall, it's not too late. Add your comments or suggestions for new initiatives to VOTE or contact me directly via email ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ) or Twitter (@dannyrobinson) anytime. Again, BCIC will not move forward on anything - old or new - until it has been voiced on VOTE - this includes programs, sponsorships, networking events, etc. Even our own ideas and current programs will be entered here and vetted before we do them.

Again, thanks for your support last night. Stay tuned for the next Town Hall...

For those not able to join us or catch Town Hall online, view the entire video below

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