May 23, 2024 -- The inaugural Fraser Valley Economic Summit was held this week and brought together BC Premier David Eby,  the Mayors of Langley Township, Abbotsford, Chilliwack and Mission, and over 200 attendees for a full day of discussions and advocacy on business opportunities, emerging sectors, and pro-growth policies.  The Summit was organized by the Fraser Valley Business Coalition, a new alliance of the Greater Langley, Abbotsford, Chilliwack, and Mission Regional chambers of commerce, representing thousands of local businesses across the region.

The inaugural summit featured a keynote economic update from Ken Peacock of the BC Business Council, who provided a comprehensive overview of the economic realities for both BC and the Fraser Valley region.  The Summit also included thought-provoking panel discussions featuring local professionals and thought-leaders tackling the Valley’s critical infrastructure needs, food security and agriculture, and workforce development, as well as a free-wheeling discussion on the strengths and needs of the region with the four regional Mayors and Chair of the Fraser Valley Regional District.

The Summit was punctuated with a lunch address by Premier David Eby, who highlighted his government's economic initiatives and spoke to the choice facing British Columbians in the upcoming provincial election.

Cory Redekop, CEO of the Greater Langley Chamber of Commerce said: "This event highlights the immense potential of our region. By bringing attention to the opportunities and challenges facing the Valley, we are paving the way for a more prosperous future, and firmly putting Langley and the Fraser Valley in the spotlight."

The Fraser Valley Business Coalition was created to advance and promote the interests of the Fraser Valley and advocate for growth-enabling investments to support businesses and strong economic activity across the region.  Collectively representing thousands of businesses across the region, the coalition’s work will help realize the opportunity for businesses and people in the Fraser Valley to prosper in this region, but everyone must work together to realize this vision.

Photo:  Members of the Fraser Valley Business Coalition Speaking at Summit