THRIVE FORWARD: Business Symposium 2026

THRIVE FORWARD: Business Symposium 2026 Thriving Through Uncertainty In today’s rapidly changing business environment, success belongs to those who are prepared to adapt, innovate, and lead. Join business owners, entrepreneurs, managers, professionals, and community leaders from across the region for THRIVE FORWARD: Business Symposium 2026, a full-day event designed to provide practical insights, valuable connections, and strategies to help your business thrive through uncertainty. Hear from an exceptional lineup of economists, leadership experts, and workforce specialists as they share practical tools and fresh perspectives on today’s most pressing business challenges. Featured Speakers Kevin Gangel Keynote Speaker | CEO & Co-Founder, Unstoppable Conversations Kevin Gangel helps organizations transform in the face of disruptive change. As CEO & Co-Founder of Unstoppable Conversations, a certified B Corp and 1% for the Planet member, Kevin has worked with businesses, governments, and non-profit organizations to create meaningful organizational change and measurable results. Drawing on experience in leadership, corporate sales, entrepreneurship, mediation, negotiation, and organizational development, Kevin challenges audiences to think differently, embrace change, and become unstoppable leaders in their organizations and communities. Mark Parsons Vice President & Chief Economist, ATB Financial Mark Parsons is Vice President & Chief Economist at ATB Financial, where he leads the bank’s economic research and forecasting team. With more than 20 years of senior economic and leadership experience in both the public and private sectors, Mark is one of Alberta’s most respected economic voices. A sought-after speaker and frequent media commentator, Mark provides valuable insight into Alberta’s economy, emerging trends, and what business leaders should be watching as they prepare for the future. Moyra Kennedy Workforce Consultant | Government of Alberta With more than 38 years of public service, Moyra Kennedy has dedicated her career to helping Alberta employers and communities succeed. For the past 15+ years, she has served as a Workforce Consultant, helping shape the role into the comprehensive employer support resource it is today. Working with the Ministry of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration, Moyra supports employers with workforce planning, recruitment, retention, labour market information, and government programs. She has also contributed to policy development, employer resources, training initiatives, and the Canada–Alberta Workforce Resilience Initiative, helping businesses adapt to evolving workforce and economic challenges. More Speakers to be Announced! Additional speakers and breakout session facilitators will be announced soon, bringing even more expertise and practical takeaways to this year’s symposium. What You’ll Experience Inspiring keynote presentations Educational breakout sessions Valuable networking opportunities Morning refreshments Lunch Access to the Business Showcase Whether you’re leading a business, managing a team, or planning for future growth, you’ll leave with practical ideas, new connections, and actionable strategies to help your organization move forward with confidence.