Post-Olympics Sea to Sky economic development opportunities is the theme for a Sea to Sky expo at the Whistler Canada Olympic House, bringing together the provincial government, the District of Squamish, the Village of Pemberton with high profile industry experts Tuesday (Feb. 23).
The provincial government is footing the bill for the venue, food and beverages while the Vancouver Olympic Organizing Committee has provided free transportation for attendees traveling from Pemberton, Squamish or Vancouver.
"I want to thank the province for giving us this opportunity to promote economic development in Squamish," said mayor Greg Gardner.
Gardner and Pemberton mayor Jordan Sturdy are scheduled to address attendees during lunch around 1 p.m. followed by a few hours of free time in Whistler.
Gardner said his speech will focus on oceanfront opportunities as well as opportunities within the high tech, marine, education and transportation industries.
The Squamish Oceanfront Development Corporation (SODC) recently published a small colourful handout highlighting the "limitless opportunity" of the Squamish oceanfront.
"This is a community in the truest sense of the word, incorporating residential, professional, commercial, educational, cultural and recreational elements in an area already world-renowned for its unparalleled beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities," the booklet reads.
Gardner said he will also address a few of the various business industries that are expected to have growth within the community in the coming years.
The guest list includes hundred of influential people with decision-making power in the targeted industries as well as local business leaders.
"We've also tried to target people who influence decisions in businesses that already may be in our community and then we've invited some representatives of the local business community to be ambassadors for our community."
Dinner will be served at 5:30 p.m. followed by a presentation by keynote speaker veteran CBC broadcast journalist Peter Mansbridge.
After dinner, attendees will have several hours to mingle around the public library turned venue and sample Pemberton's very own organic Schramm Vodka.
