Innovation Expo: IDEaS for SME Growth

Innovation Expo: IDEaS for SME Growth

The Innovation Expo at UBC Robson Square connects SMEs with resources, government programs and support to fuel business growth

By Procurement Assistance Canada Pacific

Date and time

Tuesday, February 11, 2025 · 9am - 4pm PST

Location

UBC Robson Square

800 Robson Street Vancouver, BC V6Z 2E7 Canada

Agenda

9:00 AM - 9:30 AM

Registration and Morning Networking


Please take this opportunity to check in, connect with fellow participants and exhibitors, and start building valuable relationships before the main event kicks off.

9:30 AM - 9:40 AM

Welcome to Innovation Expo 2025


Grab your seat in the theatre and prepare for a day filled with valuable insights, networking opportunities, and engaging sessions!

9:40 AM - 10:00 AM

Opening Keynote - IDEaS


Join for the Opening Keynote Session by IDEaS, where you'll hear from industry leaders about the latest innovations and strategies shaping the future of defence and security.

10:00 AM - 10:45 AM

Empowering Regional Innovation: Federal Procurement and Supports (Panel)


Join us for the Innovation Panel - Federal Government, where key representatives from government organizations (TBD) will discuss the latest trends, opportunities, and challenges in driving innovatio...

10:45 AM - 11:15 AM

Exhibitor & Community Introductions


Exhibitors and community members will have a moment on stage to introduce their resources, businesses, or programs, ensuring they are easily accessible during the upcoming networking session!

11:15 AM - 2:00 PM

Networking with Exhibitors


Take the opportunity to network with exhibitors, explore their offerings, and make valuable connections during this interactive session.

2:00 PM - 2:30 PM

Closing Remarks


Join us for the Closing Remarks as we wrap up the event and highlight key takeaways and next steps!

About this event

  • Event lasts 7 hours

The Innovation Expo, hosted by the Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) program, is a key event designed to connect small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with essential resources, government programs, and regional insights. Taking place on February 11, 2025 at UBC Robson Square, this year’s Innovation Expo offers an engaging platform for SMEs to learn, network, and discover innovative pathways for growth and success.


Procurement Assistance Canada is excited to spotlight IDEaS's pivotal role in supporting SMEs. Attendees will have direct access to experts from government organizations, who will provide insights into funding opportunities, procurement processes, and collaboration potential tailored for innovative solutions not only in defence and security but also other government needs. Whether you’re a startup navigating your initial growth stages or an established SME looking to expand, this Innovation Expo offers essential guidance on leveraging these resources effectively.


The event will feature tailored panel discussions, interactive presentations, and exhibits designed to foster collaboration and equip businesses with practical tools to overcome common challenges. Participants will learn how to unlock government contracts and navigate funding options available through programs like IDEaS, which can provide significant funding for innovative projects aimed at addressing critical challenges faced by the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces.


This expo is not only an opportunity for SMEs to learn about federal procurement processes but also a chance to tap into broader business support ecosystems that fuel long-term success. Attendees will leave the Innovation Expo with actionable insights, new connections, and a clearer understanding of how to elevate their business. Whether you’re interested in expanding into new markets, accessing new resources, or strengthening your business foundation, this Innovation Expo is your gateway to essential knowledge and networks that can accelerate your business journey. Join us for this exciting opportunity to innovate, connect, and grow!

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This session will be hosted in English only. For more information, contact Procurement Assistance Canada, Pacific Region, either by telephone at 1-866-602-0403 or by email at SACPacifique-PACPacific@tpsgc-pwgsc.gc.ca.

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https://www.tpsgc-pwgsc.gc.ca/comm/ai-in-eng.html

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