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British Columbia Economic Development Association

BCEDA First Nations Scholarship Application

2026 BC Economic Summit (Limited spaces available)

Event Details

Dates: May 11–14, 2026
Location: Penticton Trade & Convention Centre

What the Scholarship Includes

  • One complimentary Summit registration per First Nation or organization

  • Up to $500 toward travel and accommodations per approved delegate

  • A waiting list will be maintained for additional applicants should funding become available


About the BC Economic Summit

The BC Economic Summit brings together leaders and practitioners from First Nations, local governments, regional organizations, provincial and federal agencies, and the private sector who are working to build strong, resilient, and inclusive economies across British Columbia.

The Summit is designed as a collaborative learning space focused on practical tools, real-world experience, and relationship-building between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.

2026 Theme

"Shaping Tomorrow: Igniting Ideas, Inspiring Action, Driving Change"

Topics will include (subject to change):
  • Economic reconciliation
  • Housing and community development
  • Business retention and attraction
  • Artificial Intelligence and digital tools
  • Entrepreneurship and workforce development
  • Healthcare and economic development
  • Land development and governance
  • Funding programs and partnerships

Participants will engage in:

  • Keynote presentations
  • Panel discussions
  • Think groups
  • Breakout sessions
  • Networking opportunities

BCEDA Economic Development Awards

Recipients of the BCEDA 2026 Economic Development Awards, including the Economic Reconcilation Awards, will be recognized throughout the Summit. 

Awards are presented in three population categories:

  • Under 10,000
  • 10,000–25,000
  • Over 25,000

Eligibility and Attendance

This scholarship is available to one of the following:

  • One Economic Development Officer (EDO), or
  • One Land Management Officer (LMO) 

If your Nation does not have an EDO or LMO, you may designate an alternate representative with responsibility or interest in economic development, subject to approval.

Funding Availability

  • Travel and accommodations will be reimbursed for the first 30 approved applicants
  • A waiting list will be maintained if demand exceeds available funding
  • If additional funds become available, approvals may be extended

Additional delegates are welcome to attend by registering independently at:
www.bceconomicsummit.ca

Please note: this Summit is a professional learning environment and not a political event.


Complimentary BCEDA Membership

A complimentary BCEDA Organizational Membership is available to First Nations that:

  • Are not currently BCEDA members, and
  • Have not held membership within the past five years

Once your membership is activated, you will receive a welcome email with access instructions. You may then add multiple users from your Nation, including:

  • Staff
  • Chief and Council
  • Board members of your development corporation (if applicable)

The complimentary membership will convert to a paid membership in 2027, and cancellation is available at any time.


Program Information

A full program schedule will be available online prior to the event.


Reimbursement Policy

An expense claim form will be provided upon confirmation of registration.

Final submission deadline: May 31, 2026

  • Receipts are required for all claims
  • Reimbursements are issued by EFT only

By applying, applicants agree to comply with all travel and accommodation policies.


Accommodation and Meals

Delegates are responsible for booking their own travel and accommodations.

Reimbursement is limited to:

  • Standard hotel room and taxes only
  • Subject to the $500 maximum subsidy

Meals Included with Registration

Monday, May 11 – Opening Reception
Tuesday, May 12 – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Wednesday, May 13 – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Thursday, May 14 - meal depending on whether attending the CANDO Certification course that will be held on May 14. No other sessions on May 14.

No reimbursement is available for:

  • Incidentals
  • Personal expenses
  • Meals not listed above
  • No-shows

Travel Guidelines

  • Travel must be booked using the most economical option available
  • Reimbursement follows the National Joint Council Travel Directive
  • No substitutions without prior written approval
  • No reimbursement for no-shows

Important Note

The maximum combined travel, accommodation, and meal reimbursement is $500 per approved delegate, subject to all policies above.





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